is that typical for the cultivar, just a few open at a time?
the plant is very attractive, especially the dark foliage. it looks almost black. i like the simple form of the flowers on this camellia.

So far thats the way they have behaved for me. I recall seeing a very big one in a yard in Ludowici, GA(I think) many years ago. At the time I wasn't familiar with it, but I remember it being covered in flowers! I wish I'd had a camera then.

This cultivar is slower growing than many, but it also has darker leaves than many, as you noted. I think my favorite Camellia flowers are the single types. This one is especially nice with those red flowers against the dark green foliage. For a time, when I wanted one, I had a hard time locating it. I see it all the time at Lowes and HD now!

this is what you want to see, right?
what a display on this one!

Here is a link that might be useful: pic of 'yuletide' at monrovia

You bet!! Those shots could make anybody want one! So, have you got your shovel ready by the door yet?!

Are the blooms that red in real life as shown on the Monrovia site?