Chilworth's Camellias symbolise undying, eternal love

29 March 2023

As seen flowering today in our monastic garden

Camellias grow in our garden here at St Augustine's Abbey, Chilworth as shown in the photographs here. Fr John learned today that the flower was named after the Jesuit botanist, Father Georg Joseph Kamel. He practised botany in the 1600s for healing remedies. 

Why have two varieties of Camellias been planted here at Chilworth in the past? 

Well, maybe the answer lies in the unique nature of the Camellia. 

When any flower dies the petals and calyx separate. But with the Camellia petals and calyx fall away together.

Therefore, the Camellia symbolises undying, eternal love.

Which beautifully speaks of Christ's love for us.

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Thanks to Independent Catholic News for publishing this story here.
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