Higo Tsubaki (Camellia japonica)

What are the characteristics of Higo camellia?

Single large petal and large flower center 5 to 10 petals bloom flatly

The central stamen spreads out like the center of a Japanese flowering plum flower.

What is the color of the flower?

Red, White, Pale pink, Nishiki (Variegated)

How many varieties are there?

The Higo Camellia Association officially recognizes about 120 varieties

History of Higo Camellia

Is it said that Higo camellia originated in the early Edo period (started 1604)? There are no records of when it began or who founded it, so it is unknown.

1829: "Edo Shirokane Uekiya Bunsuke Notes" Records of potted cultivation methods for 30 varieties.

(1826-1860): "Hanaren" is born, various techniques for breeding and propagation are advanced.

1877: Seinan War,

1945: WW2 Kumamoto Air Raid Devastating blow many varieties lost.

After the war, Higo camellias, which had been "Not shared with outsiders." are opened to the public

1958: "Higo Camellia Association" founded

1974: Designated as the "city flower"

1975- Higo camellia boom nationwide, becoming known worldwide!

1983: Re-establishment of the Higo Camellia Association.

Where and when you can see the Higo Camellia

Camellias are so popular that the International Camellia Conference is held every two years (in 2025, it will be held in Tokyo from March 9 to 12). Among them, the Higo Camellia is a global brand that attracts camellia lovers from all over the world!

Where you can see the flowers!

Blooms from February to the end of March in Kumamoto!

Exhibition usually held at Kumamoto City Zoological and Botanical Garden in March.

Kumamoto Prefectural General Athletic Park : Higo Tsubaki Street (north side of the Japanese-style garden)

Kumamoto Agricultural Park Country Park Camellia Garden

Suizenji Jojuen

Higo Hosokawa Garden (in Tokyo)

Higo Tsubaki Association

Flower cultivation, certification and preservation of varieties

Continuation of traditional bonsai making techniques

Exhibition in March, twice a year, practical training seminars Chairman: Mayor of Kumamoto

Over 40 members (over 10 from overseas, Germany, France, Italy, Korea, etc.)

*Now recruiting members! Come and join the practical training seminars!

Reference : Kumamoto City Green Meister Team Ladybug.

Kumamoto Castle (Official) photo gallery

Higo Bank , Higo Rokka web site.
Higo Tsubaki catalogue, by Higo Tsubaki Association

Special thanks to Mr. or Ms. Miyama who gave me all information of Higo Rokka association.