About the Organization
The Southern California Camellia Society (SCCS) was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1946 by a group of camellia lovers who wanted to share their enthusiasm about this evergreen plant and its beautiful blooms. Over the years, those original founders and their successors have been instrumental in importing reticulatas from China, japonicas from Japan, and, more recently, scions and seeds from China, Vietnam, Myanmar, and other Asian countries. Interest grew and camellia hobbyists began meeting regularly to share information, camellia scions, good soil mix recipes, and new ways to prune and graft—and lifelong friendships began.
Camellia shows were started as another way to introduce the public to this delightful plant and provide opportunities for friendly competition among hobbyists. The SCCS is linked with all other camellia societies in the region. Shows and meetings have always been open to the public. SCCS camellia shows hosted during the camellia season draw camellia lovers from San Diego to Sacramento to participate. The public is invited, and society members are available to answer questions about the various aspects of identifying and growing camellias.
Top image: Blooms on display at the Camellia Show. | The Huntington, San Marino, California.
