Camellia ‘April Tryst’ is a cold-hardy, spring-blooming hybrid camellia admired for its deep red, formal double flowers and glossy evergreen foliage. Part of the “April” series, this non-native selection was bred for increased cold tolerance, allowing gardeners in cooler climates to enjoy classic camellia beauty. It typically grows 6 to 10 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide, making it perfect for foundation plantings, woodland borders, or accent shrubs. While showy and long-lived, it provides minimal support to native wildlife and pollinators.

Why choose ‘April Tryst’ Camellia:

• Striking red blooms: Formal double flowers in vivid red brighten early spring

• Evergreen foliage: Glossy, deep green leaves provide year-round structure

• Cold-hardy hybrid: More tolerant of northern climates than traditional camellias

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Best in part shade with protection from afternoon sun

• Soil needs: Prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter

• Maintenance: Low; prune lightly after blooming to shape if needed

Designs for your garden:

• Foundation planting: Adds four-season beauty to shaded entryways and structures

• Woodland gardens: Natural fit among ferns, azaleas, and other acid-loving plants

• Accent shrub: A dramatic, bloom-heavy focal point for early spring

Ecological considerations:

• Non-native hybrid: Offers little to no value for native pollinators or birds

• Not a host plant: Does not support native insects or beneficial wildlife

• Combine with natives: Use alongside native shrubs to support biodiversity

Looking for native alternatives?

Rhododendron maximum – Rosebay Rhododendron: A large native evergreen with soft pink spring blooms and strong shelter value for wildlife.
Kalmia latifolia – Mountain Laurel: Native evergreen shrub with clusters of pink or white flowers and dense, year-round foliage for shady gardens.
Ilex opaca – American Holly: A tall, pyramidal native evergreen with red berries and glossy green leaves that support birds and beneficial insects.