American Camellia Society

"To promote interest in the genus Camellia L., scientific research in its culture, standardization of its varietal names, certification of new varieties, dissemination of information concerning the above, creation of a foundation to further these purposes, and to promote the organization and affiliation of local societies in the United States." -- ACS Charter

From 1945 to the Present

The American Camellia Society is a national membership organization dedicated to fostering appreciation for and knowledge of plants of the genus Camellia. Founded in 1945, the Society is now headquartered at Massee Lane Gardens near Fort Valley in central Georgia.

Massee Lane Gardens has nine acres of camellia plantings and several specialty gardens and collections. Your walk in the gardens is enhanced by the 39 milestones from corn grinding mills in the middle Georgia area featured throughout the gardens.

Pierced brick walls of 1760-90 brick used as ballast on ships coming from England into the port of Charleston, decorate the formal garden in front of the Headquarters building.

A particularly fine porcelain collection is on display for the thousands of visitors from the USA and abroad. Take a leisurely stroll through the nine acres of beautiful camellias during October through March. In their seasons, the fragrances of tea olives, roses, and daphne fill the air. Golden Lady Banksia roses climb huge pine trees, shielding the camellias and azaleas at their feet.

The American Camellia Society:

sponsors a variety of educational activities
offers various publications
helps sponsor scientific research
accredits camellia flower shows and camellia show judges
oversees varietal registration of new camellia cultivars
is central to organized camellia activity in the United States

The American Camellia Society is a member of the American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta and of The International Camellia Society. The Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. Donations are tax deductible for United States citizens to the extent of the law. For information about making charitable donations to the Society, please contact us at Donations.