Ryuko
A triploid C. sasanqua × C. japonica natural hybrid discovered in an old family garden in Hamamatsu City — fine-textured deep green foliage on an interseason bloomer.
Discovered by Katsuhiro Maeda in 1972 at an old family home in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan — not bred but found growing naturally. Classified as C. × vernalis, a natural hybrid between C. sasanqua and C. japonica, and identified as a triploid — genetically unusual with three sets of chromosomes rather than the normal two. The small deep red single flowers bloom between the sasanqua and japonica seasons. Foliage is notably fine-textured with deep green leaves. Offered by Camellia Forest Nursery of North Carolina. Listed locally as 'Ryuko' and registered as 'Ryūkō.' Source: International Camellia Register.