THE FIRSTBORN

Kamellia 'Firstborn' is a monoecious, self-pollinating variety of Schisandra that reaches a height of 2–2.5 m and grows as a liana with elliptical green leaves, slightly serrated at the tips. Flowering begins in late May with white, fragrant inflorescences, 1.5–2 cm in diameter. After flowering, clusters of 30–40 small, round, red berries form; the taste is sour, and the first harvest appears already in the 4th–5th year after planting. Berries are harvested in September–October and yield about 2–3 kg per plant.

For growing 'Firstborn', semi-shade and fertile, well-drained soils – loams with light gravel drainage – are preferred. The plant is undemanding in care: moderate watering, removal of weak shoots, and protection from over-wetting and drying out of the soil. Thanks to good frost resistance (up to -30 °C), the plant withstands winters in the central region of Russia without additional covering, although under harsher conditions the supports can be covered with dry leaves.

'Firstborn' is characterized by high resistance to diseases and pests, as well as good adaptation to various climatic conditions. It blends perfectly with berry crops (cranberry, blueberry) and ornamental plants (lavender, chamomile). Thanks to its lemon aroma, leaves and shoots give the garden a pleasant scent, and red berries can be used both in cooking and in folk medicine. Overall, this is a reliable, productive plant that is easy to grow even in small gardens or on balconies with sufficient lighting.