MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — A new variety of Alabama’s state flower has been officially named in honor of Kay Ivey, marking a rare distinction celebrated on Alabama’s annual Camellia Day.
A delegation from GREENVILLE, known as Alabama’s “Camellia City,” presented the announcement during a visit to the governor’s office Wednesday. Members of the Greenville Camellia Society, joined by Greenville Mayor Jae’Ques Brown, presented Ivey with a proclamation and a plaque from the American Camellia Society confirming the registration of the “Governor Kay Ivey” camellia.
“I am deeply touched to receive this special and unique honor, especially since it is one shared with my predecessor and mentor, Governor Lurleen B. Wallace,” Ivey said. “The camellia has always been one of my favorite flowers.”
Camellias have been part of Alabama’s landscape since the early 1800s. The flower was officially designated as the state flower in 1959, with Camellia Day observed each year on Jan. 7 to coincide with the height of the blooming season.
The only other camellia variety named for an Alabama governor dates back to 1968, when “Alabama’s Lurleen” was dedicated to Wallace. The newly named Governor Kay Ivey camellia has also been formally registered with the American Camellia Society.
Sixty camellias were planted on the grounds of the Alabama State Capitol in 2006 under the direction of First Lady Patsy Riley. Those plantings continue to bloom and are open for public viewing.
Forrest Latta, president of the Alabama Camellia Society, said the dedication was a fitting way to mark Camellia Day in 2026, noting the flower’s deep ties to the state’s history and identity.
A historical marker recognizing the camellia as Alabama’s state flower is located on the north side of the State Capitol grounds.
Photos courtesy of Governor Kay Ivey
