Name: Camellia japonica 'Royal Velvet' (Royal Velvet Deep Red Camellia)

Average Landscape Size: 6–8 ft tall × 4–6 ft wide; can reach 12 ft unpruned; upright, dense habit

Sun Requirements: Partial shade; morning sun with afternoon protection ideal

Water Needs: Moderate to high; consistent moisture preferred, excellent drainage essential

Deer Resistance: High

Cold Hardiness: USDA Zones 7–9; evergreen in Willis winters, excellent cold tolerance

Fertilization & Pruning: Acid-loving plant food in early spring; prune immediately after flowering in late winter/early spring

Detailed Description: Talk about making a statement! Royal Velvet produces absolutely gorgeous deep red, velvety blooms that are simply stunning against the dark green evergreen foliage. Here in Willis, this variety is incredibly reliable and cold-hardy, giving you those spectacular winter blooms when everything else is brown and dormant. Most folks maintain these at a manageable 6–8 feet, perfect for foundation plantings or as specimen plants. The deep red color is so rich and luxurious – it's like having roses that bloom in winter! This is the camellia that stops people in their tracks and makes them ask "what is that beautiful plant?"