Camellia
Camellia, an evergreen tree or shrub that bears beautiful flowers resembling roses. The plant is native to India, China, and Japan. It was first introduced into Europe in the 17th century by a Jesuit, Georg Josef Kamel (or Camellus), from whom the plant derives its name. It is commonly grown outdoors in the southern United States, but elsewhere in the country is usually cultivated in greenhouses.
The plant is distinguished by its dark green, leathery leaves. There are more than 2,000 varieties of camellias. The plant has single or double blossoms that may be red, pink, white, yellow, or variegated, depending on the variety. Camellias grow best in shady areas with well-drained soil.
The common camellia is Camellia japonica of the tea family, Theaceae.