Bessie Staring

American Camellia Yearbook, 1954, p.303, Reg. No.167: A 9 year old chance seedling, originated by Mrs Sydney Staring, Louisiana, USA. First flowered 1952. Plant growth, average, pendulous and rapid with olive green leaves, 11cm long by 6cm deep with even serrations and acute apices. Flower buds, round and pink similar to Beau Harp; pink with 24 heart-shaped petals; 13 outer followed by stamens, then a row of large petaloids mixed with stamens to form a star. Early to mid-season flowering.