White By The Gate Camellia: A Stunning Addition to Any Garden

The elegant ‘White By The Gate’ camellia (Camellia japonica ‘White By The Gate’) is prized by gardeners for its pure white blooms that add striking winter interest. With lush evergreen foliage and abundant floral displays this camellia variety makes a beautiful focal point in beds borders, and containers.

As a camellia aficionado, I’m excited to share tips on growing caring for, and displaying ‘White By The Gate’ camellia in your garden. Read on to learn why this Camellia japonica cultivar is so special.

Overview of White By The Gate Camellia

Part of the Theaceae family along with the tea plant, camellias are native to eastern and southern Asia. There are over 300 species, with Camellia japonica being one of the most popular for ornamental use.

‘White By The Gate’ is a C. japonica cultivar that was first introduced in the 1960s by nurseries in South Carolina. It is prized for having pure white double blooms, unlike many other white camellias that hold a hint of pink.

This camellia grows as an upright, spreading shrub from 6-8 feet tall and wide. The leaves are thick, glossy and oval-shaped with serrated edges. Mature plants can withstand more sun exposure when sheltered by the deep green canopy.

Stunning Winter Flowers

The main claim to fame of ‘White By The Gate’ camellia is the magnificent winter blooms. Each pristine double flower reaches 3-6 inches across, unfurling from late winter through early spring.

The abundant floral display starts as pale buds, then opens to full camellia form with overlapping petals. The blooms emerge directly on bare branches, showing up brightly against the dark green foliage.

Ideal Growing Conditions

To thrive, ‘White By The Gate’ camellia needs:

• Climate – Hardy in USDA zones 7-9. Protect from harsh winds and sudden temperature drops.

• Sun – Dappled sun to partial shade is ideal. Avoid hot afternoon sun exposure.

• Soil – Moist, acidic, organically rich soil is required. Camellias dislike soggy or alkaline soils.

• Water – Consistent moisture is needed, though established plants have some drought tolerance.

• Care – Moderate maintenance. Prune lightly after flowering. Control pests like tea scale.

Designing With White By The Gate Camellia

Here are some tips for beautifully incorporating this camellia into garden beds, borders, containers and more:

• Grow as a focal point or specimen shrub surrounded by lower plants like ferns.

• Underplant with early bulbs like snowdrops or winter aconite for white-on-white appeal.

• Allow some breathing room for air circulation and feature the blooms against a dark backdrop.

• Site near entries, patios or walkways to fully enjoy the winter flowers up close.

• Pair with other white or pastel-colored winter bloomers like hellebores.

• Plant in containers on patios or decks to bring the blossoms to eye level.

Companion Plants

‘White By The Gate’ camellia pairs beautifully with other acid-loving plants. Some top companion options include:

• Rhododendrons & azaleas
• Japanese maples
• Kalmia latifolia
• Pieris japonica
• Skimmia japonica
• Mahonia varieties
• Hydrangeas
• Hellebores
• Evergreen ferns

Caring for White By The Gate Camellia

Aside from frequent watering when first planted, ‘White By The Gate’ camellia is relatively low maintenance. Follow these care tips for healthy growth:

• Water 1-2 inches per week. More in summer heat, less in cool months.

• Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the root zone to retain moisture.

• Prune lightly after flowering to shape and remove dead wood.

• Fertilize in early spring with an acidic organic fertilizer formulated for camellias.

• Monitor for pests like tea scale and treat promptly to avoid infestations.

The Eye-Catching Choice for Winter

With its lush evergreen leaves, upright form and abundance of glowing white blooms, ‘White By The Gate’ camellia truly shines in winter. Plant one as a focal point in your garden to highlight its outstanding floral display. With the right growing conditions and care, this Camellia japonica cultivar will thrive for decades of enjoyment.