Camellia Magic in Taiwan: My Unexpected Find in Shuangxi!

Let’s be real: camellias are more than just pretty flowers! They’re actually a big deal. In China, they’re one of the Top Ten Famous Flowers. Plus, they’ve graced gardens for centuries. Seriously impressive!

Planning a Taiwan trip to see these blooms? Listen up! Taiwan camellias blossom from November to April. However, for the ultimate ‘wow’ factor, visit from January to March. That’s when they truly shine!

Okay, a quick confession (and maybe a little regret!). I once raved about “Mingyueju Camellia Mountain Villa.” It’s in Xinshe, Taichung. This place is huge—4.9 acres! They boast over a thousand camellia types and 50,000 plants. Plus, they had a 600-year-old “Camellia King.” It was their prized possession. I totally missed out, though. By the time I decided to visit, it was gone. Major FOMO, you guys!

Fast forward to early 2019. I was in Taipei for work. I really wanted to see camellias. But Xinshe felt too far. The commute and cost were just not happening. So, I searched for something closer to New Taipei. That’s when I found the Shuangxi Camellia Estate. And wow, it absolutely delivered! This estate features over 800 varieties. We’re talking thousands of camellia plants. They even have a “Five Treasures” tree. It blooms in five different colors. How cool is that?!

Quick note here: The owner shared a cool fact. This specific camellia is called “Eighteen Scholars.” It’s a nod to the classic Chinese novel, ‘Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils.’ What an amazing backstory, right?

The owner, what a gem! He personally gave me a grand tour. We walked through the estate and a quaint stream. He showed me more than just flowers. He shared deep insights on camellia varieties. Then, he told me his family’s history. His ancestors settled in Taiwan during the Qing Dynasty. They carved out a new life. But here’s the kicker: they hated drama. They avoided territorial squabbles between families. So, they retreated from society. They found this peaceful spot in Shuangxi. There, they planted this stunning camellia haven. Talk about living off the grid!

And get this: after the tour, he refused payment! Then, he invited me home for a meal. I met his 97-year-old grandma, who had a lovely caregiver. Bless her heart, she was bedridden. I felt awkward and tried to decline. But he insisted, “Don’t be so formal!” He rummaged for snacks, practically begging me to stay. He wanted us to share tea and chat. Seriously, his hospitality was off the charts!

Side note: This gorgeous bloom is honeysuckle! You guys, I actually watched the owner. He picked fallen petals, rinsed them quickly, and brewed them into tea. No joke, it tasted better than any fancy tea. Plus, he swore it was good for your eyes! Mind. Blown.

After our amazing tea, I asked for a taxi. The owner just waved me off. He said, “Nah, I got you!” He personally drove me to the train station. What a guy! The “Five Treasures” tree was no longer there. However, he showed me their ancient family house. Get this: it featured intricate camellia patterns. His ancestors lovingly called them “Camellias That Never Fade.” How poetic is that? It was such a perfect end to my trip.

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