Botanical Name: Camellia japonica ‘Alabama Beauty’

Common Name: Alabama Beauty Camellia

Mature Height and Width:
8–12′ tall × 6–8′ wide

Growth Habit: Upright, dense, broad evergreen shrub with a naturally pyramidal to oval form. Slow to moderate growth rate. Structure is layered and refined, not loose or airy.

Foliage Description: Glossy, dark green evergreen leaves with a leathery texture and serrated margins. Foliage remains deep green year-round.

Flower Description: Formal double, deep red blooms with tightly layered petals arranged symmetrically in a peony-like form. Flowers are 3–5 inches across and held singly along branches.

Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring (depending on exposure)

Fall Color: Evergreen; no fall color change.

Light Requirements: Partial shade; best performance in morning sun and afternoon shade. Protect from harsh winter winds in Zones 6–7.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 7–9 (marginal 6 with protection)

Notable Landscape Uses:
Foundation plantings; courtyard gardens; specimen shrub in protected locations; evergreen screening in mild climates; southern-style formal gardens; patio-edge plantings.

Deer Resistance: Moderate
Camellias are not a primary deer preference, though flower buds may be sampled in high-pressure areas. Established plants generally sustain limited structural damage but may lose buds if unprotected.

Note: Best planted in a protected location in Zone 7. Shelter from winter wind and strong afternoon sun helps preserve buds and foliage.