Camellia Jap. Black Lace 9 Litre Pot

Camellia japonica ‘Black Lace’ – Dramatic Dark Red Camellia with Velvet Double Blooms

Camellia japonica ‘Black Lace’ is one of the most dramatic and sophisticated camellias available, producing sumptuous formal double flowers in exceptionally deep crimson-red, so dark they often appear almost black in certain light. Flowering from late winter through to spring, this striking variety brings luxurious colour and elegance to the garden when it is needed most.

The perfectly formed blooms are composed of layer upon layer of velvety petals, creating a beautifully symmetrical, rose-like flower. Their rich, almost black-red colouring contrasts magnificently with the glossy dark green evergreen foliage, making each bloom stand out with remarkable intensity.

Its naturally upright, bushy habit makes ‘Black Lace’ an outstanding specimen shrub for woodland gardens, acid-loving borders, and sheltered courtyards. It also performs exceptionally well in large containers, where its dramatic flowers can be admired at close quarters.

Beyond its stunning floral display, the dense evergreen foliage provides valuable year-round structure and a handsome backdrop for other shade-loving plants. Hardy, reliable, and long-lived, this camellia becomes increasingly floriferous as it matures.

Thriving in partial shade, it prefers moist, humus-rich, acidic, well-drained soil. A sheltered position protected from cold, drying winds and early morning winter sun helps preserve flower buds and extends the flowering season.

Elegant, richly coloured, and full of character, Camellia japonica ‘Black Lace’ is a superb choice for gardeners seeking one of the darkest and most luxurious flowering camellias.

Seasonal Beauty & Growth

Winter

Flower buds swell, promising an impressive early spring display.

Late Winter–Spring

Large formal double flowers open in deep crimson-red, almost black in appearance.

Summer

Glossy evergreen foliage provides structure and a rich green backdrop.

Autumn

The dense evergreen canopy remains attractive while new flower buds develop.

Why Grow Camellia 'Black Lace'?

✔ Luxurious deep crimson to near-black double flowers
✔ Flowers from late winter into spring
✔ Glossy evergreen foliage all year round
✔ Outstanding specimen shrub or container plant
✔ Long-lived and easy to maintain
✔ One of the darkest flowering camellias available

Perfect For

• Woodland gardens
• Acid-loving borders
• Feature planting
• Large patio containers
• Japanese-style gardens
• Sheltered courtyards

Planting & Care Guide

Position: Partial shade or dappled shade; avoid early morning sun on frozen flower buds.

Soil: Moist, humus-rich, acidic, well-drained soil.

Hardiness: Fully hardy throughout most of the UK.

Watering: Water regularly during establishment and dry spells. Use rainwater where possible where soils are alkaline.

Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering if required to maintain shape or remove damaged branches.

Ultimate Size: Approximately 2–3m tall and 2–2.5m wide.

Looks Great With

• Pieris japonica
• Rhododendron
• Azalea
• Acer palmatum
• Skimmia japonica
• Fatsia japonica

Camellia japonica ‘Black Lace’ is an exceptional evergreen shrub, combining velvety near-black crimson flowers with glossy evergreen foliage to create one of the most dramatic and elegant displays of any spring-flowering camellia.