It's open! This was newly planted this spring , so my first flower ever. I'm thrilled that's It's billing as being very eary has proven to be true. My other sasanqua, Autumn Rocket, also described as very early (some here might remember my rant about It's lack of earliness) is covered with buds but appears to be many weeks from blooming.

Hey Art, I totally get the anticipation and joy of the first flower. Okay, maybe not with Camellia, but that feeling is something most if not all gardeners understand and appreciate. My introduction to Camellia was at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs, AR, which has extensive plantings. It was also about this time of year. Beautiful!

I guess Camellias haven't been cool for at least 50 years, but I can't help but be impressed when something blooms like this, in October, after being in the garden for less than one year.