Notes from the Garden

There are many primroses throughout the garden; their name derives from ‘Prima Rosa’, which means ‘first rose’ and feels very apt, as they will flower from December in milder years and range in colour from a deep red to almost white. These native plants can flower through to May and are an important source of food for the beautiful brimstone and small tortoiseshell butterflies. There are few plants that symbolise the arrival of spring more than the daffodil (Narcissus) and there is always a feeling of excitement when they start to flower like little yellow trumpets, loudly announcing the change of season. There is only one daffodil that is native to the UK: the Lent lily (Narcissus Pseudonarcissus), but this flower has become so popular and desirable in the last 200 years that thousands of cultivars have been selectively bred. There are many different varieties, which can be found throughout the garden – see if you can spot the differences!

The nectar of the grape hyacinth (Muscari Arenaicum) is coveted by bees at this time of year, particularly the rather lovely named hairy footed flower bee (Anthophora plumipes). Although there is a wild grape hyacinth native to the UK, it is nationally rare and the south-eastern European variety Muscari Arenaicum is more commonly seen in gardens. Many plants that are seen as weeds are also actively allowed to flourish as they represent important sources of food, such as the often overlooked, but beautiful and bright yellow, dandelion (Taraxacum Officinale). Although a dandelion looks like one large ‘flower’ it is actually dozens of individual florets (think mini flowers) all grouped together on one head, producing a vital, concentrated source of nectar and pollen.

As you walk through the lower garden you may notice areas of long grass that have not been mown. These spaces are particularly dense in a wonderful array of wildflowers, and have been allowed to flourish and flower in order to fulfil their role in the yearly cycle of the seasons. Look out for crocus, hellebore, speedwell, heather, daisy and violets, Of course, while strolling the meandering pathways that weave their way through this stunning garden, your eyes can’t help but be drawn to our large exotic flowering trees and shrubs like rhododendron, camellia and magnolia.