Camellia 'Shi-Shi Gashira' Shrub

Shi-Shi Gashira is a compact, evergreen camellia with a spreading habit and cool-season flowers. The [International Camellia Society](https://internationalcamellia.org/en-us/caring-for-camellias/growing-sasanquas) classifies Shishi Gashira under Camellia hiemalis, while the [International Camellia Register](https://camellia.iflora.cn/Cutivars/Detail?latin=Shishigashira) distinguishes this widely cultivated sasanqua/hiemalis plant from the historic japonica cultivar with a similar name. ## Flowers and landscape use Flower color descriptions vary among references, from red to rose-pink. [University of Georgia Extension](https://fieldreport.caes.uga.edu/publications/B625/landscape-plants-for-georgia/) lists red double-formal to rose-form flowers and describes the cultivar as more compact; nursery sources commonly show pink flowers. [UF/IFAS Extension](https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/sasanqua-camellias/) identifies Shi Shi Gashira as a compact choice for groundcovers and foundation plantings. Its spreading habit suits foundation plantings or a broad groundcover grouping; allow room for the shrub to fill out. ## Siting For this sasanqua/hiemalis group, the [International Camellia Society](https://internationalcamellia.org/en-us/caring-for-camellias/growing-sasanquas) describes autumn flowering, sun tolerance, and late-season bloom; grow in full sun to part shade in moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Sasanqua and hiemalis camellias typically bloom from fall into early winter. Protect flower buds from hard frost and keep newly planted shrubs evenly moist while their roots establish. ## Maintenance Pruning is usually minimal. If shaping is needed, remove selected branches after flowering rather than shearing the shrub. A mulch layer helps conserve soil moisture and protects the shallow root zone.