Korean Fire Camellia Shrub

Korean Fire is a cold-hardy Japanese camellia with bright red, single flowers and an upright, evergreen form. It was selected from a wild population in Korea and is valued for early-season color in a sheltered woodland edge or shrub border. ## Flowers and foliage [International Camellia Register](https://camellia.iflora.cn/Cutivars/Detail?latin=Korean+Fire) identifies Korean Fire as a Camellia japonica cultivar with single red flowers and compact foliage. [Pleasant Run Nursery](https://www.pleasantrunnursery.com/plant-name/Camellia-japonica-Korean-Fire) describes its flowers as opening in April and May, with a mature size around 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. Pleasant Run Nursery lists a typical mature height near 10 feet and spread near 6 feet, while the International Camellia Register describes compact growth. These are approximate garden dimensions; leave room for the shrub to develop. ## Siting Plant in partial shade or filtered light, in moist but well-drained, acidic soil. Shelter the shrub from drying winds and harsh afternoon sun. The cultivar is especially noted for cold hardiness; a nursery lists it for zone 6, while the International Camellia Register records the original selection as tolerating temperatures to about −23°F. Winter performance still depends on acclimation and the planting site. ## Maintenance Water newly planted camellias regularly while roots establish. Once established, keep the soil from drying severely during flower-bud formation. Remove damaged or crossing branches after flowering if needed; routine shearing is unnecessary.