Camellia ‘April Tryst’ is an evergreen flowering shrub valued for its rich red blooms, glossy dark green foliage, and improved cold tolerance compared to traditional camellias. It forms a dense, upright shrub that provides year-round structure and refined evergreen presence in the landscape.

In mid to late spring, deep red, semi-double flowers open against the lustrous foliage, creating a bold and elegant display. The blooms are long-lasting and appear after many early-spring shrubs have finished, extending seasonal interest. Its compact, tidy habit makes it well suited for foundation plantings and protected garden settings.

April Tryst grows best in part shade and prefers acidic, well-drained soils with consistent moisture. It benefits from protection from harsh winter winds and hot afternoon sun. With proper siting, it performs reliably with minimal pruning and maintains strong evergreen structure year-round.

Why choose April Tryst Camellia

Late-season blooms: Extends spring color with rich red flowers
Evergreen foliage: Glossy leaves provide year-round structure
Cold-hardy selection: Improved tolerance for cooler climates

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Part shade
Soil needs: Prefers acidic, well-drained soils
Maintenance: Low—prune lightly after flowering if needed

Designs for your garden

Foundation plantings: Adds evergreen form near buildings
Woodland edges: Performs well in protected, lightly shaded areas
Formal gardens: Complements structured designs with evergreen texture

Ecological benefits

Evergreen cover: Dense foliage provides year-round shelter
Low-input shrub: Requires minimal care once established
Structural value: Adds permanence to shaded landscapes

Looking for Native Alternatives?

Kalmia latifolia – Mountain Laurel: Mountain Laurel is a native evergreen shrub with glossy foliage and distinctive spring flowers. It thrives in acidic soils and partial shade, making it a strong evergreen alternative in woodland-style plantings.

Kalmia latifolia Olympic Fire – Mountain Laurel: Olympic Fire Mountain Laurel is a native cultivar with vivid red buds and spring blooms. It offers similar ornamental appeal and evergreen structure in woodland and foundation plantings.

Leucothoe axillaris – Coastal Doghobble: Coastal Doghobble is a native evergreen shrub that performs well in acidic soils and partial shade. Its arching habit provides dependable year-round structure in shaded landscapes.

Plant appearance may vary by season and growing conditions. All plants ship healthy with established root systems.