The Garden of Cosmic Speculation, Scotland
The recent 8th Global Botanic Gardens Congress (8GBGC) held in Singapore was an eye opener for those interested in horticulture. Jointly organised by the Singapore Botanic Gardens (SBG) and Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI), the congress was held in Southeast Asia for the first time. Our region is home to over 100 organisations that include botanic gardens, arboreta and other NGOs, and is renowned for extraordinary biodiversity, housing approximately 20-25% of the world’s plant and animal species.
The Congress’ theme was “Botanic Gardens – People and Plants for a Sustainable Future”. In the face of pressing challenges such as global biodiversity loss and climate change, the event underscored how botanic gardens play a vital role in shaping a sustainable future, for humanity and the environment. Experts from some of the world’s most prominent gardens participated and wonderful, rare plants were featured. This prompted the following short guide of lesser-known gardens in the world for seasoned travellers who appreciate the subtler charms of horticulture.
Even when one travels during the colder months, some gardens, especially those with conservatories and lots of glasshouses, offer opportunities to witness rare and rare plants in bloom – away from the bustling crowds of peak tourist seasons. Let us now take a look at some of the hidden botanical gems around the world where you can experience the beauty of rare flowers and trees, even during the winter season.
DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN, PHOENIX, USA Located in Phoenix, Arizona, the Desert Botanical Garden offers a striking contrast to traditional winter gardens. Visiting at year end allows you to experience the unique beauty of desert flora during cooler months.
Highlights:
The Cactus Garden: This garden features rare cacti species such as the Coryphantha elephantidens, which showcases large, striking blooms and distinctive spines.
The Wildflower Garden: When in full bloom, you can see the unique seed formations and remnants of plants like the Eschscholzia californica (California Poppy), which bursts into colour with the arrival of spring.
The Butterfly Garden: This garden includes plants that attract butterflies, such as the Lantana camara, known for its vibrant, multi-coloured flowers that provide a winter food source for butterflies.
The Desert Botanical Garden offers a warm and unique botanical experience in winter, showcasing the resilience and beauty of desert plants.
THE HUNTINGTON BOTANICAL GARDENS, SAN MARINO, USA
The Huntington Botanical Gardens in San Marino, California, is a sprawling botanical oasis known for its diverse plant collections and seasonal displays. November and December offer an opportunity to experience rare plants and unique garden features during a quieter period.
The Desert Garden: This area displays rare cacti and succulents, such as the Ferocactus wislizeni (Fishhook Barrel Cactus), which features eye-catching golden spines and distinctive ribbing.
The Japanese Garden: This garden includes rare and beautiful plants such as the Camellia sasanqua, which blooms with delicate pink or white flowers, adding colour to the winter landscape.
The Chinese Garden: This garden showcases the Schisandra chinensis (Five-Flavour Berry), which is known for its fragrant flowers and medicinal properties, as well as its striking red berries.
The Huntington Botanical Gardens offer a diverse and sophisticated experience, making it a perfect destination for all seasons.
THE GARDEN OF COSMIC SPECULATION, SCOTLAND
Located near Dumfries, the Garden of Cosmic Speculation is a private garden created by Charles Jencks, a landscape architect known for his work blending art and science. This garden is a marvel of modern design, incorporating themes from cosmology and mathematics into its landscape.
Rare Plants:
Gingko Biloba: This ancient tree species, often considered a living fossil, is featured prominently in the garden’s landscape design.
Japanese Blood Grass: Also known as Imperata cylindrica or ‘Red Baron’, this ornamental grass adds a striking red hue to the garden’s mathematical formations and cosmic themes.
The Garden of Cosmic Speculation offers a unique blend of art and nature, inviting visitors to reflect on the universe’s complexities while enjoying a stunning array of plants. It opens its gates for only 1-2 days annually, usually on the first Sunday in May, as part of Scotland’s Gardens programme. Currently, repairs are being done, but you can keep track of open days next year via the following website: Scotlands Gardens Scheme – Home
FALKIRK WHEEL GARDEN, SCOTLAND
Not far from the Garden of Cosmic Speculation, the Falkirk Wheel Garden is an innovative space built around the world’s only rotating boat lift. The garden complements this engineering marvel with lush plantings and striking design elements.
Rare Plants:
Lobelia Tupa: This dramatic plant, with its tall spikes of red flowers, adds a distinctive touch to the garden’s design.
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis x intermedia): Known for its unusual, fragrant winter flowers, Witch Hazel provide seasonal interest and contrast in the garden’s landscape.
The integration of botanical elements with cutting- edge engineering makes the Falkirk Wheel Garden a fascinating destination for visitors interested in both horticulture and technology.
KEUKENHOF CASTLE GARDENS, NETHERLANDS
While Keukenhof is famous for its floral displays, the gardens surrounding Keukenhof Castle offer a more tranquil, less- visited experience. These gardens blend historical charm with botanical beauty, providing a picturesque setting for a quieter exploration.
Rare Beauties in Secret Gardens Pt.02
Rare Plants:
Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis): With its heart- shaped flowers, this plant adds a touch of romance to the garden’s design.
Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum): The delicate foliage and vibrant colours of this tree create an elegant atmosphere.
The Keukenhof Castle Gardens provide a peaceful retreat with a mix of historical ambiance and botanical splendour, making it a perfect spot for a reflective stroll.
THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney offers not only stunning views but also a rich diversity of plant life. This garden is an oasis of native Australian flora and diverse plants from around the globe.
Rare Plants:
Wollemi Pine (Wollemia nobilis): Often referred to as a “living fossil,” this ancient tree was discovered only in 1994 and is one of the world’s rarest plants.
Banksia ‘Birthday Candles’: Known for its unique flower spikes resembling candles, this plant adds a vibrant burst of colour to the garden. The garden’s emphasis on conservation and its diverse plant collections make it a fascinating place to explore and learn about Australia’s unique botanical heritage.
CONCLUSION
For the seasoned traveller with a refined appreciation for horticulture, these lesser-known gardens, nurseries and greenhouses provide an exceptional opportunity to explore rare and distinctive plants all year round. From the tranquil beauty of the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix to the exotic blooms at the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney, Australia, each location offers a unique and sophisticated botanical experience. These hidden gems not only showcase the beauty of rare flora and unusual garden design but also offer a peaceful escape from the busy holiday season, making them ideal destinations for those who seek both elegance and tranquillity in their travels. PRIME
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