Table of Contents
Official State Flower of Alabama
In 1959, Alabama enthusiastically adopted the camellia as ‘The State Flower of Alabama’. Women living in Butler County spearheaded the potential replacement of the goldenrod, which was viewed as nothing more than a lowly wildflower unworthy of appropriately representing the state. A non-native state symbol of Alabama, the camellia flower is indigenous to China.
From its colorful varieties to its exclusivity, to its ample winter blooming season, the appeal of the Alabama state flower only grew with the passing of time.
Want to Deliver Fresh Flower in Alabama?
Cultural Significance of state flower of Alabama
The Camellia plant holds significant value in cultures on all sides of the globe.
- La dame aux camélias, an 1848 novel by Dumas, centers on the tragic romance between Armand Duval, a young bourgeois, and Marguerite Gautier, a young brazen courtesan.
- Throughout history, the flower has been a pampered and cherished shrub—a symbol of elegance and aristocracy, from the temple gardens of China and Japan to the conservatories of 18th century Europe.
- Camellia is named after botanist Josef George Kamel, who traveled Asia in the 17th century and revealed medicinal properties of plants.
Camellia Flower Meanings
- Camellia flowers have been associated with mythology and romance throughout time. With blooms of white, pink, orange, yellow, and lavender, camellias symbolize the multiple stages of love.
- Camellia flower arrangements were traditional at Korean weddings for hundreds of years, implying faith and longevity.
- As one of the united flowers, camellias carry a significant value among subjects of love, profound respect, and dedication in the U.S.
- The camellia (or “Tsubaki”) is highly regarded in Japan for its magnificence and its relationship with the heavenly and the hallowed.
Also Read: USA States Flowers
Birthday Flower Arrangements
Designer’s Choice Flowers
Anniversary Flowers
Camellia Flower Facts
- While camellias are generally considered cold-weather, early-spring bloomers, sasanqua camellias bloom in the fall. Despite their unique hybrid origins, these plants provide vibrant autumn color and can be grown into espaliers, hedges, or climbing forms. Throughout October and November, you can enjoy the white blooms of Diana Camellia and the red blooms of Alabama Beauty Camellia.
- In partial shade, camellias grow faster with less exposure to direct sunlight. In well-draining soil and with minimal watering, they grow best.
- The camellias require pruning after the florid season, which includes removing dead woody bits and thinning dense foliage.
- Deer and other garden nuisances don’t seem to bother camellias. The fact that they aren’t deer’s favorite snacks makes them a good candidate for planting in grazing areas throughout the South.
- These fragrant shrubs don’t usually grow low to the ground. Several species grow straight into strong woody trunks, reaching impressive heights of 6-15 feet tall with widths of 4-7 feet.
FAQs
The camellia is Alabama’s state flower since 1959. It ascended to prominence by replacing the Goldenrod.
Years ago, Flowermen in Alabama concluded that Camellia is more appropriate as a state representative and is to be valued more than just a wildflower.
Camellia blooms through a big selection of colors, from white to pink to red to yellow.
It was in 1959 when Alabama adopted the camellia as their state flower. Although Camillia isn’t native to the state, it had been officially named the state flower of Alabama in 1959.
The oak-leaf hydrangea, also known as Hydrangea quercifolia bartr is the official state wildflower of Alabama.
You can find a wide variety of flower bouquets and baskets on Snapblooms for your flower delivery in Alabama and even International.
