Rhodoleia Championii
Rhodoleia championii
Rhodoleia championii is a rare evergreen tree native to southern China and Southeast Asia, admired for its pendulous clusters of rose-pink to scarlet flowers. Poetically called the "King of Hanging Bells" in Hong Kong, it is a refined ornamental prized by collectors and botanical gardens worldwide.
Hamamelidaceae (Witch Hazel family)
Cool season through early spring (March to April); flowers appear on leafless or newly leafing branches
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Similar flowers: bauhinias and heliamphoras also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
First discovered in a woodland near Aberdeen (Little Hong Kong) in 1849, Rhodoleia championii holds a special place in Hong Kong botanical heritage. Local sources poetically call its pendulous clusters the "King of Hanging Bells." The species is named after Thomas C. Champion, a British botanist who collected plant specimens in China in the 19th century. Today it is protected in some parts of its range, and conservation efforts in Hong Kong focus on propagating and restoring its wild populations. Its rarity in cultivation adds to its mystique and desirability among plant collectors.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; performs best with warm summers and cool winters
Water
Regular moisture, especially during flowering; avoid waterlogged conditions
Soil
Well-drained, Moist, Slightly acidic, Fertile
Expert Growing Tips
Treat like a camellia: provide moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil with protection from harsh afternoon sun
Seeds require 2-3 months of cold stratification before germination at 20-25 degrees Celsius
Suitable for pruning to manage shape; evergreen foliage provides year-round structure
Plant where it can be viewed from below to appreciate the pendulous flower clusters
Hardy to temperatures into the teens Fahrenheit; best in USDA zones 8-10
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Specimen tree in subtropical and warm-temperate gardens
- Feature planting in parks, botanical gardens, and woodland gardens
- Companion plant to camellias in the lower South of the United States
- Conservation planting in Hong Kong to restore natural populations
- Prized collector tree for its rare, jewel-like flowers
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rhodoleia Championii
What is Rhodoleia championii?
Rhodoleia championii, commonly known as the Hong Kong Rose or Silk Rose, is a rare evergreen tree native to southern China and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Witch Hazel family and is admired for its pendulous clusters of rose-pink to scarlet flowers that bloom in early spring.
Is Rhodoleia championii easy to grow?
It is moderately challenging but rewarding. It grows best in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil in a subtropical or warm-temperate climate. Treat it like a camellia: provide filtered light, consistent moisture, and protection from harsh frost. Seeds require cold stratification before they will germinate.
Where is Rhodoleia championii native to?
It is native to southern China, including Guangdong Province and Hong Kong, and also occurs in Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Myanmar. It was first formally discovered in a woodland near Aberdeen, Hong Kong, in 1849.
Why is Rhodoleia championii called the King of Hanging Bells?
Local Hong Kong sources use this poetic name because the flowers hang in pendulous clusters from the branches, each cluster resembling a softly layered bell. The effect of dozens of these hanging, jewel-like blooms along the branches is considered one of the most dramatic floral displays among evergreen trees.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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