麻豆社

Most of the camellias along the trail are varieties of Camellia japonica, but a few are a related species known as Camellia sasanqua. One of the most noticeable differences between C. sasanqua and C. japonica is the leaf size—C. sasanqua has smaller, thinner leaves. If you’re here when the C. sasanqua plants are blooming, you’ll likely find them to be the only camellias flowering, as they bloom in early fall, well before the C. japonicas. Though C. sasanqua flowers are smaller and less full than those of C. japonica, they cover the plant densely, creating a stunning display in the landscape. 

Another great feature of C. sasanqua is its ease of cultivation, making it the easiest of the camellia species to grow. During Ms. Jewel’s time, C. sasanqua camellias were more popular than they are today. You can still spot them in established neighborhoods, especially in September and October when they’re in full bloom.