EuropeSMALL2009.compressed

Horticultural Travels
by Sharon Muczynski

Table of Contents
Gardens of Ireland.............................pg 4, 62
Gardens of Scotland................................pg 18
Gardens of England................................pg 26
Gardens of France....................................pg 48
Garden Influence Essays........................pg 68
Garden Plants............................................pg 78
References..................................................pg 112
pg 3

pg 4
Ireland Gardens
I succeed in flying to Shannon after a two
day delay. Luckily I have seen Muckross
and Powers Court on previous visits to
Ireland.
My first garden in Dublin is Glasnevin
Botanic Garden, one of the finest botanical
gardens in the world. It was a little early
to see the renowned double borders in the
their full glory, but there were many other
botanical beauties to behold in the garden .
Especially enjoyable and instructional was
the side-by-side comparison of common
flowering shrub varieties and garden-

pg 5
worthy cultivars of familiar shrubs
Weigela, Deutzia, lilacs (Syringa),
and other small flowering shrubs. The
closely-spaced layout of the shrubs made
contrasting individual merits easy and
fun .
The Family beds are another part of the
garden I found instructional . I find it
really helpful in learning similarities
between plants belonging to the same
family when they are planted alongside
others. Pure species are planted here and
families with allied characteristics are
planted near each other for analysis.
If learning plants is your goal , the
Glasnevin Botanic Garden excels in
education with the idea and execution
of the Family beds, and the best, most
complete signage, of any garden I have
encountered. It is also beautifully and
meticulously maintained by an attentive
staff.
The newly planted walled vegetable
garden was impressive in its large
scale and beautiful concentric design .
Strolling through the grounds one
encounters several exquisite old
glasshouses that act as focal points
and way-finding landmarks on the 48
acre property. The garden is laid out
gracefully and logically. The quality
of the garden is carried over into the
stunningly-designed restaurant with
some of the most mouth-watering
confections I have ever seen . Seriously.
The restaurant was full of people, and
I get the feeling it is full most of the
operating hours of the garden . I will

pg 6
never understand why garden centers or botanical gardens with restaurants are not more of
a hit in the States. It seems to me the perfect combination - plants and food set in beautiful
scenery! Spending time at Glasnevin is a pleasant way to get educated!
Knot Garden at Glasnevin Botanic
This intricate design looks as though the thread of boxwood ropes over itself in an
overlapping pattern , when in fact, it is simply pruned to look that way. Other knot
gardens use other small-leaved evergreen plants along with boxwood to frame herbs
or low-growing flowers. The example in the photograph is not yet fully planted for
the summer season . Knot garden patterns can get very intricate and are only limited
by the imagination of the gardener, with the understanding that with increasing
intricacy comes increasing time spent on maintaining the illusion of woven plants
that jump out of the earth and over their green neighbors.

pg 7
The Great Palm House at Glasnevin Botanic
This magnificent glasshouse dating from 1884 was rebuilt at that time and
fabricated in Scotland. It was shipped to the botanic garden in pieces and
constructed on site. The structure is framed in iron and wood.

pg 9
The afternoon bus trip took a circuitous route to Helen Dillon’s
Garden . This is my fourth visit to her garden and I am more
impressed with each visit. She accomplishes so much in such
a small space. Her garden encompasses many garden rooms
which remain distinct from each other, yet read as a
cohesive whole. After many permutations in 30 years,
it has achieved a lovely balance between hard
strict geometry and billowing plants. At the
end of the pool is a crescent-shaped set of
arches that visually separates the back
third of the garden while cleverly
allowing uninterrupted passage
straight through the garden .
Helen Dillon is a consummate
plantswoman and designer.
Reflective Essay- Taste
People have as many different
opinions about gardens as they do about
most things in life, and for the same reasons.
Everyone is a unique combination of nature and nurture
with very different experiences making up a singular set of
tastes, morals, and values. Additionally, the backgrounds of the three
students of our group had varying degrees of design experience, with two
having no garden design or garden work in their histories. For all these reasons

pg 10pg 10
the three of us viewed the garden through a private lens of our own individual
experiences and history.
We collectively agree that the garden is aesthetically beautiful , but among the merits
of particular components, we differ. For example, two of the group were particularly
bothered by the choice of the smooth cut ashlar stone used around the reflecting pool .
It was thought the choice of sleek, sharply cut limestone material was too modern a
selection compared to the roughly cut stone used on the façade of the house. One of
us believed the choice of modern stone a perfect counterpoint
to the rough ashlar of the exterior wall of the house and the
exuberance of the plants spilling from rectangular beds. This
juxtaposition of old and new is at the heart of Arts and
Crafts Style and seems to underscore the beauty of each . The
proportions of the smooth limestone are in harmony with
the stone used on the corners of the house as each was cut
in the same dimensions. The crisp lines of the stone allow
the reflecting pool to visually cut a clean linear slice
through the garden unencumbered by rough edges.
We also agreed that the plantings in the blue-themed
garden were attractive. On closer inspection by the
horticulture student it was determined that not
only were the flowers of all the plants chosen for the
similar hue, but the foliage shapes were similar as
well . All the leaves were palmate in varying sizes. What
made it interesting, though , wass the array of palmate
types selected which added variety to the bed. Basically it
was a collection of blue-flowering plants, many of which
had palmate foliage that ranged from entire to deeply
sinused. Very interesting and attractive for all , yet for
the horticulture student, clever as well .

pg 11
Reflecting Pool at Helen Dillon’s Garden
pg 11
Reflecting Pool at Helen Dillon’s Garden

pg 12
Later that day in Dublin , I enjoy
strolling along Grafton Street
because it is strictly a pedestrian
thoroughfare with no cars
allowed. I wish this idea
would catch on in
the States. I believe
commerce would
improve in areas
where cars are
excluded as long
as there is a
certain density
of people living
in the vicinity.
We have a driving day the
next day and leave Dublin
for Northern Ireland. I really
enjoyed the old-fashioned elegance
of the Hotel Wynn with its starched
white tablecloths and fine china, such a
welcome change from the fast food meals
eaten out of paper bags, now so common
in the United States.
Along the way we stop briefly at an
old cemetery named Monasterboice. We
headed into the blustery wind to find
an ancient collection of Celtic crosses
dating from the 10th Century, beautiful and
creepy, as only graveyards
can be. Pretty remarkable
that these stone dioramas
depicting biblical stories are
remarkably unscathed by the
hands of time. The rain that
started yesterday evening at
Helen’s house continues today
and threatens to follow us
to Mount Stewart, our next
garden .
I am looking forward to
touring Mount Stewart again
as it is one of my favorite
gardens! I remember that this garden is
wonderful for the horticulturist with its
wide range of plant material suited to
the mild climate of Northern Ireland. The
garden is also wonderful for the designer
and follows the convention of meticulous
plantings near the house dissolving into
naturalistic forms and the curving bed
lines of a picturesque English landscape
garden further away.

pg 13
Celtic Cross at Monasterboice
We arrive at Mount Stewart just as the
rains began in earnest. The inclement
weather does nothing to change my
plans for exploring the garden . I intend
to do a very thorough job walking the
property.
I start at the main dwelling and walk
around the Sunken Garden which is
surrounded, very much like the walled
medieval gardens, with a colonnade
on all four sides. I am surprised to
see a California native plant, named
Dendromecon harfordii, from the
Catalina Islands,
espaliered along
the colonnade The
pergola is kitted out

pg 14
with an assortment of climbing vines and roses.
Trimmed topiary trees shaped like mushroom
caps on sticks give views to the house underneath
their skirts creating a marvelous juxtaposition of
hard topiary edges and undulating natural plants.
Sunken Garden outlined by a rectangular Pergola
The large dense proportions
of the topiary trees visually
organize the space providing
a hard-edged reminder that
the hand of man made this
garden , and their neatness,
reveals his active, attentive
presence. I move around the
house to the Italian Garden
with a double set of parterres
that lead the eye from the
interior of the house down
into the pool of the Spanish
Garden . Normally a vegetative
colonnade is grown from
Taxus baccata but, because
of the mild climate, Leyland
Cypress is used beautifully
for this purpose, enclosing
the pool . Enticing views
out into bluebell meadows
encourage further exploration .
I see a fine planting of Ribes
speciosum, another California
native, although it is missing
its major pollinator. Its
exquisite miniature jewelry of
red flower lanterns hanging

pg 15
Leyland Cypress Colonnade
Lake Glen Walk with Primulas
like ornaments along the branches seem
somewhat lonely without the constant
ministrations of hummingbirds.
As I walk further from the house the
plantings appropriately lose rigid
geometry and become loose, curvilinear,
and naturalistic. I see lovely bluebell
meadows and beautiful mature blooming
specimens of Embothrium coccineum,
Davidia involucrata, Drimys
winteri, and Sephora teraptera. As
I approach the lake I see marvelous
specimen trees everywhere! The lake is
captivating with carefully placed trees
adding vertical interest. Trees clothed
in burgundy and chartreuse foliage are
artistically placed punctuating the green
vista. Everywhere you look, the view
could be easily translated into a scene
worthy of a painting.
Picturesque to be sure.

pg 16
It is clear the trees and shrubs have been
carefully chosen for the conditions of the
site, and tended carefully because everywhere
the plants are in robust condition . Seeing
the fine health of the specimen trees allows
a horticulturist to feel relief and gratitude
that the plants have been placed in the care of
gardeners at Mount Stewart.
While it is true the garden is visually lovely,
the sense of smell also plays a part in this
design . The heady fragrance of white, large-
flowered rhododendrons perfume the stroll
around the lake. And these are not your
ordinary diminutive garden rhododendrons, no,
these are their Himalayan relatives that tower
over passersby and present massive steroidal
trusses of flowers. The flowers emit a delicate
perfume that is a long-treasured treat. For me,
no other flower has a similar fragrance. I find
myself backtracking to inhale it just one
more time before I leave.
A marshy glen on the edge of the lake
is a visual delight of blooming
primulas and iris straddled by
snow white birch trees.
As I continue around the
lake I feel rested and
elevated by the
restorative power
of nature.

pg 17
Mount Stewart with Planting Beds Designed by Gertrude Jekyll

pg 18
Borrowed Views at Benmore Botanical Garden
Nothing says welcome like a grand allee, and there is nothing grander than the allee
of Sequoiadendron giganteum at Benmore Botanical Garden in Scotland. Beautifully
situated in the Eachaig Valley on the Cowal Peninsula, Benmore Botanic combines
the Gardenesque Style of J.C. Loudon with magnificent borrowed views. The Victorian
Period saw the creation of many botanical gardens which showcased many new
plants discovered on travels to other countries
and trialed at home. Setting them apart allowed
for study of plant performance, along with
study of possible medicinal and economic uses.
A climb through the Chilean section of plants

pg 19
Giant Sequoia Allee
rewarded our group with long views of the valley
made visble by the agreeable clear skies. Heaths and
heathers purple the hills where sheep do not roam.
The creek water runs dark with the acids leaching
from the peat found here. We arrived too late in
the season to see most of the substantial collection of
rhododendrons: over 400 species. Benmore is living
proof that mild temperatures and frequent rainfall
grows beautiful conifers. The collection here is large
and stately. I hope to come
back at a later date for
further study of these
evergreen giants. Even with
the immense proportions all
around me of giant trees, the
plant that blows me away
are the beautiful specimens
of Enkianthus. Now I know
Benmore House at Benmore Botanical Garden

pg 20pg 20
Benmore Botanical Garden

pg 21
how they
are supposed to look- noticeably different than
the wimpy individuals I attempt to grow at home.
Benmore Botanical Garden is beautiful as well as
instructive, and combines sciences with art and fine
scenery.
We travel on through
the haunting lochs of
Northern Scotland and make
our way to Edinburgh . This
afternoon we see more examples
of technology from J. C. Loudon.
Experimentation in his garden
led to the twin inventions of a
curved window sash made of iron
for greenhouse windows, and a
method to angle conservatory
glass, by hinging individual
panes. With these innovations
greenhouses were free to take
on convex shapes, and the
angled panes let greenhouses take
better advantage of the sun’s rays
and natural rains. Both of these
advancements are demonstrated
at the Royal Edinburgh Botanical
Garden in the handsome
glasshouses
on the
grounds.
My favorite part
of the garden is
the two acre Rock
Garden. Like Benmore
Botanic this multi-
faceted display features
fine alpine plants grown
among sensitively arranged
stones that look to natural alpine
environments for design inspiration.
This garden is successful because it
uses local stone: conglomerate rock from
the Callander area of Perthshire, and red
sandstone from Dumfries, The use of local
stone gives the garden a familiar feel and
it seems to belong to the space it occupies.
Once again , borrowed views, around
the garden and beyond, add to the
appropriateness. Additionally,
design harmony is brought
about by siting the waterway
to flow as it would in nature, from high to
low. The elevated beds display plants to their
best advantage. To blend the rock garden with
the expanse of lawn further away there is a

pg 22
Rock Garden at Edinburgh Botanical
Naturalistic Rock Formations
transition zone that blurs the abrupt change. The
rock garden appears to have used Japanese garden
design principles with their careful attention to
the geologic features of the native landscape to
guide construction . A dialogue or synchrony exists
between the rock formations, the plants, and the
views.
Careful attention to nature’s methods also guided
the irrigation design for the rock garden . The
plants are installed in freely draining scree, and
irrigated frequently, by water coursing in the scree
layer beneath the plants which discourages foliage
diseases and supplies adequate
water for good growth .
Pathways weave seamlessly
through the rocks, again
masterfully built to
resemble a well-worn trail
in the rocks. Humanly-
proportioned steps support
sure-footed travel through
the rocks. It is so easy to
move through the garden ,
one never glances down
or has moments of insecure
footing. The design of the
Royal Botanic Garden
Edinburgh is a disciplined
partnership with nature that celebrates good
design with skillfully grown plants.

pg 25
E d i n b u r g h S c e n e s

pg 26
Tatton Park replaced the Ian Hamilton Findlay Garden. The design of Tatton Park is
a sampler of many different garden styles. The problem, of course, is none of them
are done well because of the fragmented landscape. There are small areas of
excellence with rough transitions usually achieved through large expanses
of lawn to help erase design memories of nearby gardens. By themselves, the
walled Vegetable Garden , the Italian Revivial Garden , and the Japanese
Garden are all fine examples of separate styles. The
walled garden is derived from the
medival Hortus conclusus. Age-old
techniques ensure good harvest. For
example, plants that are not entirely
hardy are covered with a ceramic
cloches to endure cold night
temperatures. Apple trees are more
intensively planted in the walled
garden when they are espaliered
on a series of arbors.
While the Japanese Garden
is beautiful , it is
unfortunate it cannot
be experienced as it was
intended, as a strolling
garden. I especially
enjoyed the planned shape
of the bridge reflection
in the water. The Italian
Revival Garden has been
recreated by faithfully
adhering to the vocabulary of the style
Hortus Conclusus
Cloches

pg 27
Espalier on Arbors Quadrapartite Terracing
Japanese Strolling Garden
Use of Reflection Italian Revival Garden

of garden . The long view is terraced to the pond level . Close to the house formal
quadrapartite parterres of clipped boxwood topiary with water fountains, and
statuary, complete the Italian Revival recreation .
At Bodnant I would have liked to have either
been early- about three hours, or late- about
one week. As it was, we had a tiny bit of
time to experience an 80 acre property. Sadly,
I never made it to the majority of the garden .
I have fond memories of the lovely Dell , and
looked forward to seeing it again , but, they will
stay distant memories, because I did not have
time to see it. The world famous Laburnum Arch
was about a week away from its yearly splendor.
Laburnum Arch Bodnant
pg 28

pg 29
garden , three generations of the Puddle
family have devoted their time as
gardeners to its care. One of the grandest
pergolas anywhere wraps the entire
curved length of stairs down to the potager.
The color of the pergola is a wonderful
mossy celadon green which contrasts
beautifully with the blooming wisteria.
There is an old stone wall that no longer serving
its historical function for keeping livestock separate
from the immediate house grounds, still , the Ha Ha
continues to maintain the illusion of an unbroken view
far from the house. The Dell is a tranquil place, humid
and primordial . Towering redwoods shade the small river
flowing through it in the pinetum and natural garden . It
must be nice to experience this garden through the seasons.
Bodnant is an Arts
and Crafts Garden
with collections of
Magnolias, Camellias, and
Rhododendrons. Stone
terraces adorned with
roses step down from the
manor with further views
of large blue Atlas cedars
flanking a lily pond. In
the distance lies a large
tapis vert or green lawn .
Faraway views of the
lovely
Conwy
Valley
extend from
the lily
pond. This
is a special
Ha ha Pergola
Tapis Vert

pg 30
Wednesday found us at Hidcote.
The Arts and Crafts principles of
William Robinson are followed
here, and combined with
the color theory of Gertrude
Jekyll, in this garden of many
rooms, designed by Lawrence
Johnston . The plantings appear
like nature- intertwined, lush ,
and wild- kept in check by the
squared planting beds. There are
29 themed gardens at Hidcote.
Most famous are the Red Border
and the White Garden featuring
meticulously manicured
geometric hedges and airy flowers.
Particularly attractive is an
ingenious hedge of green and red-
foliaged evergreen plants marbled
together. The garden rooms gave
glimpses into the next enticing
room and propelled me forward
through this luscious garden .
Hidcote

Red and Green Hedge
Meticulous Topiary Walls
Exuberant Plantings
pg 31

pg 32pg 32
Hidcote Inspirational Tree- Cedrus deodara

pg 33
Reflective Essay - Why We Revere Trees
There is nothing like them on Earth , at once protective and nurturing, yet, majestic
and proud. No other living thing grows as large or as old as a tree. From ancient
times man gazed in awe at the stature of the noble tree. A fine old specimen usually
served as a landmark and a meeting place. Children climbed and ate the fruit
produced in its branches. Forests supplied the lumber required to provide
housing.
Bound in the girth of the branches is the power of the sun . The massive
scaffolding spreads wide to shelter man from the elements by cooling
and humidifying the air up to 20 degrees. Trees offer shelter, shade,
year-around beauty, while sequestering carbon , and stabilizing soil .
One large tree can support over one hundred species of wildlife, and
essentially support a whole ecosystem, from the life in the soil to the
birds flying overhead. Trees do so many amazing things. A healthy
tree has the power to positively change the ecology around it.
Powerfully built and muscular like a father, yet with spreading
arms and cool shade, nurturing like a mother, combined with
the age and wisdom of an elder, trees seem omniscient in their
being.
Families buy homes because of the presence of one majestic
tree. That tree becomes the chronological thread throughout
their lives. The tree becomes part of the family. It serves as
a witness to daily activities and milestone events: children
clambering through its branches, grown children marrying
beneath its canopy, pets laid to rest nearby. The abiding
presence of a tree, growing and changing just like a member
of the family imbues it with a soulful human quality. But
they are certainly supernatural . Some live thousands of
years, seemingly forever, combining grandeur and the
wisdom of nature into a form of graceful beauty.

pg 34
Rill
This was my first visit to Rousham and a fine
garden it is. It is virtually unchanged from 1737
when William Kent redesigned it, but to me it
almost seems like a modern garden . The unessential
and fluffy garden elements have been stripped away
to reveal the inherent beauty of the site. The rill
that runs through the Laurel Walk curves with
the topography and is made of clean , unadorned
material . It is just perfect in its simplicity and
form. The iconographic statuary is outwardly
focused, so one notices the lovely countryside where the garden resides. The Dying
Gaul statue symbolizes the glory days of Britain while the Statue of Apollo indicates
power and good breeding. The inclusion of statuary and pavilions makes this garden
different from the strictly picturesque landscapes of Capability Brown . The walled
garden near the house came before Kent ’s redesign . It is an entirely different garden
space, and because it is walled, one experiences the necessary transition needed to
separate the new garden space mentally. A lovely dovecote is the focal point amidst
borders and a central reflecting pool .

Potager and Topiary
Dovecote in Walled Garden
Iconographic Statuary
pg 35

pg 36
I really enjoyed our visit to the city of Oxford. I had
never been there before. It looks just like I thought it
would. You could almost feel the jump in collective IQ.
I love the aura of possibility and creation that seems to
exist in elite college towns.
The architecture was block after block of period
buildings with ornate finishings no longer seen in
modern buildings.
I found myself imagining the walls “could talk”
and the amazing things they would say! I
think I heard whispers of momentous
historical dialogue that had occurred
throughout the city. One of my favorite
authors, J. R . R . Tolkien , ate lunch at a
quaint tavern we stopped in called, “The Eagle
and Child.” It was cozy and dark: ripe for deep
discussion and discovery.
I acted as tour leader for some of our group
and I was determined that we see all
the landmarks on the map. One of
my favorite spots was the lush , uncut
meadow flanked by the mature allee of
sycamores on the banks of the river. We
finished our tour near dusk and watched
the buildings turn peachy with the setting
sun .

pg 38
Islamic Influence with Classical Proportions
Iford
is a delight, and lovingly tended
by Mr. Higman , who gave us an
excellent tour of this incredible
garden . The garden was conceived of,
built, and furnished by Harold Peto.
The design incorporates his love of classical
Roman proportions with his love of Islamic
elements, and his love of quality materials
and detail . Peto read classical literature and
accurately reproduced the garden elements
with traditional Roman proportions found
in Vitruvius’ work. Appropriate for this
classical garden is the terracing in keeping
with the steep slope and proper Roman
vernacular. The stone used is the finest
grade as explained by Mr. Higman . It is easy to differentiate between lower quality stone
when the distinctions are pointed out. I am glad Peto used the nicer stone, the dense
warm color gives the garden an incomparable richness. Rills, scented geraniums, and the
sound of trickling water are Peto’s Islamic elements, useful for sensually cooling a hot day.
Flowers take a subordinate role in this garden , but there are still plants like boxwood,
juniper, roses, and wisteria. Italian Cypress punctuate the changes in elevation as one
walks through the garden . Peto, taking cues from Gertrude Jekyll and the Arts and Crafts
influence, uses superb quality materials, and workmanship, which are evident from
start to finish . Walkways are large, accommodating several people, and landings slow
down progression and encourage appreciation . Classical statues and choice architectural
fragments are focal points with open pergolas framing views.

pg 39
Framed Views & Large Steps
Trimmed Boxwook
Espaliered WisteriaIford Manor

pg 41
The painting that influenced this garden
is etched into my brain . I have seen it
many times and it is a pleasant, bucolic
scene.
A dammed river and a grand tour
helped create the inspiration for this
garden designed by Henry Hoare II.
The story of Aeneid is told through ,
statuary and diminutive versions
of, among others, the Pantheon , and
the Temple of Apollo, seen as
one progresses around the
sinuous banks of the lake.
Paths divurge symbolizing
choices in the epic story. The
garden is much more than
a story, though , views of all
the elements constantly change
as one walks. Just as you think you
have seen the best angle of a particular
pavilion in relation to the landscape
a further distance away the building,
presents itself in a whole new appealing
way. Watching the proportions and angles
change in the relationship between the
landscape elements is what I enjoyed
most. Fascinating. The whole garden is
picturesque, yet it retells an ancient
tale, while demonstrating the wealth
and power of the patron . Subsequent
plantings of many more trees and
rhododendrons are beautiful , but maybe
not what the original designer had in
mind. It would be informative to see the
garden in the winter.
Stourhead Temple of Apollo

pg 42
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is not a garden ,
but it is a must-see destination in
England. We came, we saw, and we could not
believe it! How did an ancient people construct such
a monumental time-keeper! And more importantly,
why did they care so much to do all that work! I guess
the best the scholars
can do is speculate on
these questions. Sure, the
physics part has been
satisfactorily addressed,
but why did they do it?
This place raises many
more questions than
it answers. Maybe in
the future we will get
closer to having some
additional answers to
this great mystery.

pg 43
National Gallery, London
The Rise of the Carthaganian Empire
by Joseph William Turner
I am glad a couple of art
museums were included in the
tour. If given a choice between
a garden or a museum, I am
afraid the garden always wins.
I have included this picture of
a painting by William Turner
because, like Stourhead, it was
inspired by the Aeneid. So an
epic poem inspires a painting
AND a garden .
It is interesting, but not
surprising, that many of the
great landscape designers
started as painters. Both
William Kent and Gertrude

pg 45
Jekyll were classically trained painters. Mixing colors
on the palette no doubt helped Jekyll combine flower
colors as her eyesight was fading.
Landscape painting finds its origins in great Roman
literature. We see the influence great Roman literature
has on providing inspiration , by looking at the
landscape works of Diego Velaquez. Velaquez was
the first to recreate the written word of Roman
writer, Pliny the Elder, and painted some of the
first dedicated depictions of landscape in art. Later,
Salvatore Rosa wished to share emotions of terror and
awe with his depictions of explorers’ experiences.
Most people who viewed his sublime drawings
would never see the wild landscapes
he drew, but taking in one of
his drawings was the next best
thing. Poussin and Dugat were
later landscape painters who
worked from books. Claude
Lorrain was probably the
most influential landscape
painter, aptly, he trained
under a landscape designer
before becoming a painter. He
painted many scenes from the
Aeneid. He also found inspiration
from reading Shakespeare’s depictions of
idyllic landscapes. Lorrain’s dreamy scenes of
the Golden Age are uplifting and calming.

pg 46
Hampton Court Palace
Hampton Court Palace was the home of Charles II and Henry the VIII. Charles II
spent time in France, and was influenced by the gardens at Versailles. Like Versailles
a patte d’oie radiated from the palace, but unlike Versailles, the central lane was
equal in size to the other lanes. Britain royalty were a little reluctant to demonstrate
in the landscape how egocentric they were, so all lanes were equal in size. Still , the
scale of the garden was designed to impress. There
is a Dutch idiom in the Renaissance French-style
garden because it was designed by Daniel Marot,
the designer of Het Loo in The Netherlands. The
elements are scale-down to fit a less expansive

pg 47
Parterres of Pieces Coupees- Grass Cutwork
landscape. In the Privy Garden the yews are trimmed
smaller, and the parterres of pieces coupees, or grass
cutwork are more intimately scaled than in French
Renaissance gardens. Recently, the Privy Garden was
remade to a more faithful rendition of the original
circa Henry VIII. The original patte d’oie has been
reduced in size since the time of Charles II, when it
extended out to another semi-circle further out in the
landscape. Just like other Dutch Renaissance gardens
the gardens at Hampton Court are meticulously
maintained and the topiary
and grass forms have razor-
sharp edges. Similar too, is the
landscape itself; it is flat in
topography. The 300-year-old
yew allees that flank the lanes
of the patte d’oie have grown
much larger than originally
planned, and this changes the
intended effect.
Beginning of Patte D’oie

pg 49
Last night we boarded a ferry in Portsmith , England. This
was more like a cruise ship than a ferry because there were
beds for sleeping and showers. I slept so soundly that I
forgot we were on a boat until I awoke and realized I was
moving through the ocean out my window. Thank goodness
I did not awake with a start, as the ceiling was just a couple
of feet above my sleeping head. After our overnight ferry
trip from Portsmith to Caen , France, we arrived early at
the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach in
Normandy, France. My Dad was in the Second World
War, but thankfully did not attend this horrendous
event. He was laid up in a hospital in North Africa,
the victim of bomb warfare. On D-Day it was
incredible that anyone survived on such an exposed
beach . The Germans must have picked them off
like swatting at so many flies. I imagine the sheer
number of bodies going to slaughter must have
allowed a few to make their way up to do battle. I
can only offer my sincere thanks and appreciation .
Over 9,000 men have graves here. Orderly rows of
graves resembling ranks of troops go on and on in the
landscape. The expanse of white crosses is broken up
by an occasional Star-of-David marking the grave of
a Jewish man . With self-preservation in mind, I tried
to ignore the showing of Private Ryan on the bus, as
I know full well I would turn into a blubbering mess.
Sometimes it is especially good not to be an American
male and be made to go war, because I do not think I could
be as brave as the men of D-Day in defense of my country.

pg 50
Latona Fountain with Canal in the Distance
Beautiful L’Orangerie

pg 51
Louis the Fourteenth had Versailles built to
showcase his power to the world. He called
himself, “The Sun King.” He might have
believed it, but I do not think so. Versailles
seems like overcompensation , like a big
red monster truck owned by a sunken-
chested, bespectacled, skinny little guy.
The scale of it, and the impossibility to
form a coherent whole of it in ones mind
makes it tiresome. A visit to Versailles
makes me long for a cozy wooded glen
with tree cover for shade.
The statuary that remains at Versailles
tells of greatness and power. The Fountain
of Latona warns visitors of what a mistake
it would be to cross the Sun King- unless
you like becoming a frog. You get a
sense of the enormity of the place when
you stand near the Fountain of Latona
and look down the length of the grounds
and see the end of the canal shimmering
mirage-like in the vast distance. Wild.
I soon tired of yet another visit to this
monstrosity and retired to draw trees in
the l’orangerie. It had not been open on
my previous stops. I enjoyed being the only person there until I was locked in by
mistake. As I wandered about considering my escape strategies an ATVing security
guard saw me and opened an enormous (I guess the size is in keeping) padlock to let
me out. Whew- That was close.
Iconographic Statuary

pg 52
Stone Pattern- Figurative Rill
Symbolic & Decorative Rill
Modern Pergola
Parc Andre Citroen
refers to the name-
sake of the park in
its earlier history-
Citroen automobiles
were manufactured
on this site. A design
competition awarded
the park’s plan to two
design teams. Alan
Provost and Gilles
Clement headed the two winning entries and the
plans were melded into a cohesive whole. Gilles de-
signs are primarily plant-based. Many of his parks
originate from his wish that humans live more har-
moniously with the environment. His design is on
one end of the park while Provost did the urban edge
on the other side. The design themes for the design
of the park are artifice, architecture, movement and
nature. Clement primarily uses movement and na-
ture, while Provost uses artifice and architecture.
The park has something for everyone. The huge
center lawn is perfect for sun-bathing and people-
watching. Small intimate gardens in the black gar-
den and the sensory gardens give people looking for
privacy a chance to commune with nature. Beautiful

pg 53
and skillful plant combinations can
be appreciated for their horticultural
awareness. Now I know why I am such a
fan of this garden and Gilles Clement,- he is
a plant nut too! And, if you want to get a better bird’s
eye view, a trip on the resident hot air balloon can be
arranged.
Reflective Essay- Historical Connections
Parc Andre Citroen is a park for people in a very urban
area of Paris. The question in creating the park was
how to design a planted space in what was a toxic waste dump in
the middle of Paris? How do you make the green space transition from
a sea of concrete? The designs of Clement and Provost use the language of
French Renaissance gardens and traditional agriculture in a new way to
transition the park from an urban neighborhood to the wilder spaces near
the Seine. Theirs is not a strict translation; however, the language of forms is
still recognizable. This time, instead of building a monument to an egocentric
king the designers use the old forms for the people. Clever design using the
traditional elements of patte d’oie, rills and fountains, make the garden
aesthetically pleasant, accessible and usable for everyone. These forms of rill ,
pergola, laurel walk, patte d’oie, and fountain are still recognizable although
they may be symbolic rather than serving their original purpose.

pg 54
Laurel Walk
Concrete Divider with Stone Rill
Modern Concrete Pergola
Most people use the north
entrance, through the urban
neighborhood, to enter the
garden . This part of the
garden uses architecture
and artiface to blend park
and urban areas. Rills and
waterways are represented using
stepped terracing, different
stone patterns, slots, and
ramps. All follow walkways
and add ornamentation along
with figurative moving water.
Of course when it rains the
rill slot may actually convey
precipitation and serve a
purpose. The rill-like symbolic
stone pattern also acts as guide
for wayfinding through the park.
This is a flat site and a design
problem if the designer wants
to provide privacy and shade.
Ramps at the north entrance

pg 55
Terracing and Fountain
L’Orangerie & Greenhouse
introduce another more intimate
level to the park. The upper level is
used by joggers and walkers; the lower
level gives one the feeling of strolling
through forest clearings. This multi-
level solution , like so many innovative
design solutions is simple and extremely
clever. Modern metal pergolas stripped
of any ornamentation stretch across
the lower level to provide shade with
twining plants. Juniper and other
evergreens are terraced in large swaths
cooling the space in a modern version
of the laurel walk. Instead of hedges to
separate garden rooms, modern concrete
dividers do it sculpturally with stepped
edge ornamentation .
During the French Renaissance a palace
would dominate the landscape with a
patte d’oie emanating from the center.
Similarly in Parc Citroen the space
of the White Garden is dominated
by buildings, but not a palace, by
greenhouses. The patte d’oie is there too,
but it is set to the side slicing the park
with a diagonal that makes all the park

Patte D’Oie
areas easily accessible while sensibly
providing the shortest distance through
the park for people in a hurry.
The Chateau Versailles has the palace
with the l’orangerie to one side,
and so does the Parc Andre Citroen .
The wooden boxes housing the trees
are identical copies of the boxes at
Chateau Versailles, but painted white
instead of green , and housing crepe
myrtles instead of orange trees. At the
greenhouse the rows of boxed trees are
set in a grid like an orchard of fruit
trees. Modern versions of reflecting
pools or moats are found alongside the
greenhouses. Pleached magnolias form
a grid, and rest in the pools creating a
multiplication of leaf shapes in their
reflections. This design element differs
from pools in renaissance gardens
where the reflecting pool reflects only
the sky, and a moat is only protective.
Fountains are used in French
Renaissance gardens. In traditional
pg 56

pg 57
designs they are removed from human interaction with walls, statues, heavy jets, and
pedestals. The fountains of the Renaissance were meant to be looked at- not so at Parc
Andre Citroen . Here the fountain starts at ground level with no walls and no statuary
to discourage interaction . Kids are free to romp through the computerized sprays that
constantly vary in pattern , and appear to dance, and it is just natural that kids
want to join the fun .
Yes, Parc Andre Citroen has historical landscape forms from the French Renaissance
in the park, but they are used in innovative ways to invite people to get involved
with the garden , creating a peoples’ park .
Pleached Magnolia Grid

pg 58
Green Wall
Le Mur Vegetal by Patrick Blanc is
mounted on the Musee du Quai Branly.. I
have always wanted to see this installation .
I hope someday to see green walls on most
buildings, especially in cities. Maybe these
walls could incorporate food plants and
serve multiple uses, for example, green
walls can act as insulation , air cleaner,
beautifier, habitat, and a source of food.
The wall itself differs from, say, an ivy-
covered wall because it is kept separate
from the exterior of the building by a
frame and waterproof liner. The plants are
planted at 30 plants per meter into thick
polyamide felt. I wish recycled natural
materials could be utilized for the felt
instead of synthetic polyamide to make it
a more ecologically sound choice. As it is,
polyamide is derived from coal tar and
is not recyclable. The green wall at Musee
du Quai Branly is attractive, although ,
I would have liked to see it in better
health with less dead gaps. I guess it has its
successes and failures too, just like a regular
garden . According to Blanc’s website, green
walls need tending about 3-4 times a year.
I was so impressed with the landscaping at
the Musee du Quai Branly that I went back

pg 59
Naturalistic Planting
Urban Park & Art
the next day when it was open . It turns
out the natualistic plantings were done
by a familiar landscape architect, Gilles
Clement. I love his work! Once again like in
Parc Citroen he was able to bring nature to
an urban area of Paris. Regrading the site
to add topography, planting large swaths
of grasses to add movement, and finally,
adding nature-inspired art and sculpture
all work together to bring the illusion of
never-ending nature to the city. And really,
it is not an illusion , I saw ducks, bees,
and butterflies. Definitely an approach to
landscape design that I aspire to.
Flowering Grasses

pg 60
Atlantic Puffin Gentian acaulis
I brought my binoculars because I had
hoped to spy Atlantic Puffins along the
Cliffs of Moher. Unfortunately I did not
make it to the Cliffs. Atlantic Puffins
are declining all over their range, and
this is one of the few remaining habitats
where they can still be found. I missed
the grandeur of the cliffs rising vertically
out of the sea an impressive 600 feet. It
is said that the weather is overcast much
of the time. Wouldn’t you know it was
sparkling clear the day I couldn’t go?
Maybe next summer me and the Hubster
will take a couple of days to visit this
wonder of nature. I think we could rent
bicycles and tour Glendalough too.
The Burren, of all the gardens and places on
this trip I wanted to see, I wanted to see this
one the most. It is one of the most unique
geological formations on Earth combined
with the temperate climate of Southwestern
Ireland. Soil is almost nonexistent on this
large karstic formation of limestone. The rock
itself is split and broken forming crevices,
and in these places small unusual plants
make their homes. one of the plants, Gentian
vernis is a surprise for its large shockingly
blue flowers on a such a diminutive plant.
Some of these plants occur nowhere else in the
world, and associated with them are insects
that are equally rare. When it is blooming it
must look like a jewel box filled with gems.

pg 61
Primula sp. Hyacinthoides non-scripta
I really would have liked to see Anne’s
Grove Garden . It has a famous woodland
garden and a walled garden with
herbaceous borders. Because of the mild
climate, many tender plants thrive here
including Embothrium, Hoheria, and
Eucryphia. The woodland garden hosts
a large collection of Rhododendrons. The
30 acre garden is set on a slope
overlooking the river Awbeg. In the
Robinsonian style the plants are not
native, but appear to be native by their
naturalistic arrangement. It is famous
for a large expanse of Primula florindae
along the river. It must be beautiful . I
hope to have the pleasure someday.
Glendalough is located close to Dublin ,
in a picturesque valley located between
two lakes. The valley was formed long ago
by glaciers. Ancient ruins, dating a far
back as the six century, of six churches
and a remaining round tower are located
here. The founder, St. Kevin , came here
seeking enlightenment. He settled in the
area because the solitude and memorable
beauty of the place inspired religious
reflection and retreat. Glendalough
means, “Glen of Two Lakes.”
The setting is naturally beautiful and
popular with bikers and hikers. Bluebells
blanket the valley in the springtime.

pg 62
Parc Bela Bartok- Small Park
Reflective Essay – Lessons Learned
Superficially I learned to leave a few days early if I want to ensure I do not miss
anything. Fundamentally I learned that European urban space planning has much
to teach the United States. Parks and plazas should be a fundamental part of city
planning. Public outdoor spaces are not a luxury, not an add-on , but a necessity for
a healthy, functioning human society. Olmsted realized this and added significant
parks to New York City, and Boston , and influenced the formation of large parks in
San Francisco and other cities. When cities are planned for cars rather than people,
buildings and roadways get big, and out of human scale, people lose touch with each
other and become alienated. Can you imagine New York City without Central Park?
It is no wonder that Claude Lorrain’s idyllic scenes of The Golden Age, showing
picturesque, gently rolling parkland, dotted with shade trees, were so popular.
Looking at such a
painting imparts
immediate feelings of
calm. The scenes
are therapeutic.
Even better is to
have access to
an actual park
of tranquil
beauty in
order to

stroll and relax. The longing for a scenic meadow accented with trees is in our DNA.
As a race we originated from the park-like savannah in Africa. It is appealing to us,
and we feel safe there because we can see possible danger in the open grassland, yet
we have protection and shade from overhead tree canopy. In parks people have the
freedom to connect with nature and each other, or find their own patch of lawn and
just lie back, sunbathe, and reflect.
I also learned that if large parks are not possible than small parks will also work to
create relaxation and sanity in urban areas. Parks have a civilizing influence for
everyone no matter what their size. Unlike many American cities, Paris has many
small parks. Near the Lourve, I just happened to stumble upon sweet little Parc Bela
Bartok in the middle of a sea of concrete. It is a wonderful space created by forming
gently rolling topography to give a feeling of immersion and privacy in nature, even
in the midst of a city. It provided solace for me and undoubtedly others who live here
seek it out for the contentment it fosters.
More importantly, I learned that as a designer you can bring nature to urban areas
which benefits wildlife, and the people who live there. Musee du Quai Branly is
an example of this. The landscaping here is carefully chosen to foster wildlife, to be
healthy with minimal care, and to encourage interaction with urban populations.
And just like the green wall has many benefits, so does creating pockets of nature,
in the city. It is a win-win situation really, with nature and
people benefitting. I believe that ANY greenspace is therapeutic and
immeasurably favorable for the health of whole communities.
It reminds us of our relationship with other living things and
nature is comforting in its resilience and beauty.
pg 63

pg 64
View from the House
Muckross House and 11,000 acres was sold to the Bourn Family as a wedding present
for their daughter, Maud, who had married an Irishman . The Bourn family also
owned and lived at Filoli in Woodside, California. After Rose died of pneumonia
crossing the Atlantic, the house and grounds was deeded to Ireland and became the
first National Park. I visited here several years ago. I enjoyed the breathtaking scenery
and continually changing appearance of the lake surrounded by mountains as the
bus drove towards the house. It is here I saw striking Rosa sericea ssp. omeiensis f.
pteracantha and its blood-red thorns for the first time.

pg 65
Rosa sericea ssp omeiensis f. pteracantha

pg 66
I have visited Powerscourt many times in a post-flight stupor. The drive through majestic
beech trees up to the manor is impressive. A dramatic view is directed from the house
down through the garden , to the small lake, and out to the mountains in the distance.
This is an Italianate Garden with terracing, statuary, urns, topiary, and water. Black and
white pebble mosaic carpets also bring to mind the Italian gardens I saw last year. The two,
winged-horse statues flanking the grand stairs, refer to the design in the family crest. The
ornate gate was purchased in Bavaria, as were the winged-horse statues. Apparently the
owner liked to travel and collect garden ornaments, and ideas. The Japanese-style Garden
is pleasant and laid out in concentric circles. The herbaceous borders in the walled garden
really come into their own in the middle of summer. The Pepperpot Tower was closed when
I visited, but I understand that it is now open and you can climb up to the top for views of
mature specimen trees. I have never before seen an allee of Araucaria araucana- pretty wild!
Powerscourt View

pg 67
Powers Court Gate
Italian Renaissance Garden

pg 68
Influence of Vitruvius
The first two chapters of Vitruvius’ book,
Of Architecture, are a treatise on how
an architect should be educated and
how he should also know the aesthetic
principles necessary to construct
enduringly beautiful and well-
constructed buildings. He writes that
an architect must have a well-rounded
education in history, math , drafting,
construction , weather and climate,
sciences, music, and philosophy, because
without it, the design of the building
will be deficient. He also writes that
proportions of the building and its
parts must follow certain measurements
which are based on the proportions
of the human body. If a building is
constructed with these measurements and
proportions, the parts will add up to a
harmonious whole, and be aesthetically
beautiful . He goes on to say that in a
correctly styled building, certain styles
of architecture termed “orders” should
never be mixed as they are associated
with particular deities.
A big reason why Vitruvius’ teachings
are followed in Western Architecture,
even today, is because the proportions
just look right. Buildings like the
Pantheon , following these principles,
is still considered to be one of the
most perfect buildings on earth .
Even Thomas Jefferson looked to
Vitruvius when he designed his
home, Monticello.
Looking at the National Gallery
in London one can see classical
Roman elements and proportions
in the columns, pediments, and
domes. At Stourhead, in an attempt
to showcase classical beauty in a
retelling a classical story, Vitruvius’
work was consulted. Not only
did it look appropriate
and historically correct,
by inference, it
demonstrated the well-
rounded education
talked about in Chapter
One of Vitruvius’ book.
Harold Peto also realized his gardens
would look aesthetically beautiful and
well-bred if he followed the
classical proportions and
sited his buildings
with an appreciation
for surrounding scenery, all
requirements described in Of Architecture.

pg 69
Influence of Homer and The
Garden of Alcinous
The Garden of Alcinous
from The Odysssey,
by Homer, describes a
bounteous land of plenty.
This vision of paradise on
Earth is an archetype that
many garden designers have tried
to replicate (myself included). In this
place there is no disease or bad weather,
fruits and flowers perpetually bloom,
and everywhere you look
there is lush beauty.
When I think of this
metaphor for Eden I
think of carefully
planned and tended
double herbaceous borders.
Every time I see a peaking
border I see an illusion of
paradise: colorful and extravagant
with no hint of disease.
Walled gardens, especially
when they include
flowers (potager,)
are the temporal
representations of the Gardens of
Alcinous. Fruit trees espaliered, and
intensely planted, with many varieties
growing together; bring to mind a
worry-less paradise where food is
always plentiful and delicious. Just
the fact that there is a wall physically
separating the area makes it seem
other-worldly, protected, and ethereal .
Everyone craves this place. There are
no worries or sickness just unstoppable
beauty and an unending supply of food.
It is a place of peace where all creatures
live side-by-side in harmony.

pg 70
Influence of Pliny the Younger
Pliny, in is writings, seems to be
describing several of the gardens we
visited. Pliny’s gardens are protected by
colonnades, separated by hedges and stone
walls, and decorated with box topiary in
the forms of animals, geometric shapes,
and letters. In his descriptions shady
pergolas covered with fruit and scented
with flowers give relief from the hot
sun . Further from the house, meadows,
vineyards, and woods provide food and
wild beauty.
Similarly, at Mount Stewart, beds
near the house are rimmed in clipped
vegetation , colonnades surround the
sunken garden and protect guests from
inclement weather. At Mount Stewart the
clipped boxwood figures and animals come
right out of Pliny’s description .
Similarities can be seen at the Garden at
Hidcote which has luxurious beds of
flowers controlled by strict geometries
of boxwood. Garden rooms are
enclosed by topiary hedges. I
wonder if the large twin bird
topiaries looked anything like the
bird topiaries at Pliny’s villa,
because both Hidcote and Pliny
had them.
On our trip, vine-covered pergolas,
similar to Pliny’s description were found
at Helen Dillon’s, Mount Stewart, Tatton
Park, Hidcote, Iford, with a huge example
at Bodnant. Many of the gardens also had a
woodland in the distance: Muckross,
Annes Grove, Powerscourt,
Mount Stewart, and
Bodnant.
Just like other Romans, Pliny,
had already figured out the
elementary forms used for outdoor
living, the best directional siting for a
house, and what constitutes agreeable
views. Even though it is 2000 years
later we still need the same
things as human beings, our
comfort and aesthetic
requirements have not
changed, so it is no wonder we still look
to ancient writings for design direction .

pg 71
The garden on our tour that most fits
this description for me is Mount
Stewart. At Mount Stewart the Manor
was not nearly as grand as the gardens.
The time and energy apparent in the
design and care of all the horticultural
specimens, in my mind, elevated them to
reverential or religious objects.
I also felt this in Helen Dillon’s Garden
because she paid serious attention to
particular plants and how she combined
them. Additionally her reflecting pool
seemed to pay homage to all the plants
and the garden by echoing the grandeur
found there.
Influence of Francis Bacon
Francis Bacon was Lord
Chancellor of England,
a philosopher and a
practitioner of empirical
science. He wrote, “Of
Gardens” in 1625. In the
essay he gives his opinion on
what qualities a perfect garden
should have. First, he elevates
gardening and gardens to being the
most god-like pursuit of anything man
can do, and the most
refreshing. Second,
he says compared
to constructing a
garden , architecture
is a vulgar pursuit.
Bacon says it is far
easier to build well than to
garden well . Man , in his opinion ,
should garden rather than most
anything else because it is
fulfilling, provides food,
and brings one closer
to God.

pg 72
Influence- Hypnerotomachia Poliphili
This chapter from the book,
Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, is
supposedly written by a monk, and
describes the erotic dream of Poliphili.
In it, he describes an idealized dream
world from gardens to buildings in great
detail . The translation of the book came
out in 1592. The descriptions in the
book provided an Eden-like template for
garden designers. Details of layout, water
features, plants and their arrangement,
influenced many Renaissance gardens.
Woodcuts included with the text made
it one of the first garden design books
ever written . In the chapter on gardens
the author describes a place with a
stream leading to a lake surrounded
by fragrant roses and jasmine.
Orderly rows of many kinds of
flowering and fruit-bearing
trees, are chronicled in this
imagined garden , as well as,
meadows with many flowers,
fountains, and many sweetly singing
birds.
Gardens that remind me of this story are
Annes Grove Garden which has a walled
garden that was an orchard in a previous
design , and now has an abundance of
flowers with a nearby pond.
Especially reminiscent
of Hypnerotomachia
Poliphili is the walled
garden at Rousham. There
in the walled garden are flowers,
espaliered fruit, a small pond,
and a dovecote, for the birds. This
garden predates the redesign of
the garden from the early
1700s, so it is highly
likely that it was
influenced by the book.

pg 73
Influence- Alexander Pope
In the poem by Alexander Pope,
Epistle to Lord Burlington , the
author describes possible design
mistakes and things to keep in
mind when designing a garden .
Most importantly, in the poem, the
garden designer should consult the genius
of the place, and by paying attention to the
inherent qualities of the site one can derive
a good design . He also adds to never lose sight
of nature, and not to overdo embellishments
in building a garden .
And just like Pliny’s
Roman guidelines, he
suggests that the parts
should add up to a
harmonious whole.
Pope also advises
that parts of the garden
should be hidden to introduce
elements of drama and surprise.
Of the gardens we visited,
Powerscourt, is a prime
example of attention
paid to siting the
garden properly, and consulting the
genius loci. The axial layout leading the
eye through the garden to the fountain
in the lake would not be nearly as
strong were it not to include views of the
surrounding majestic mountains. Also,
in the design , planting a simple grove of
large noble beeches in the valley leading
up to the manor, does not gild the lily,
it increases the appreciation of inherent
beauty of the valley.
At Rousham, the position , shape, and
simple materials of the rill and pools,
gives one pause, and enough time to
really comprehend the characteristic
loveliness of the location . Simple
plantings, well-placed ornamentation ,
and minimal pruning give the garden an
air of unplanned elegance.

pg 74
where meticulous landscaping close
to the house transitions to more
naturalistic forms further
away. This approach makes
sense because one is apt to
care for plants that are easy
to get to, and conversely, find it
difficult to care for plants when travel
is necessary to accomplish maintenance.
Mount Stewart certainly had flower beds
close to the house that required more
pruning and maintenance than did the
bluebell meadows glimpsed beyond the
cypress colonnade. Helen
Dillon’s Garden , too, had
topiary boxwood and
more precious plant
combinations near
the house, with more
unkempt places beyond
the set of arbors. Tatton Park’s
design follows Repton’s teachings
with neatly trimmed boxwood,
needing frequent attention ,
clustered near the house,
and further away less
intensive informal
lawn leading to a pond.
Influence- Humphrey Repton
In Humphrey Repton’s essay, “The Flower
Garden”, he makes a case against the
picturesque and unadorned landscapes
of Capability Brown . He basically states
that a house in a landscape such is this,
is the same as a house just being plunked
into a pasture, because it has nothing
to differentiate it from the surrounding
landscape. He writes that a house in
this situation is a melancholy scene. To
make a house a proper home one must
add flower beds and shrubs to demarcate
the it from the wilder landscape nearby.
According to Repton , shade of a pergola
or woods is necessary for relief from the
sun .
On our tour we saw several gardens

pg 75
Influence- William Robinson
Many of the gardens on the trip
were influenced by the teachings
of William Robinson . He
proposed planting hardy exotics
in large naturalistic plantings
because after initial installation
and growth , the plantings require less
maintenance. He writes that picturesque
gardens may appear low-maintenance, but
in reality require a great deal of care.
Annes Grove Garden has a large expanse of
Primula floridinae near the water. It looks
appropriate for the site; in fact, it appears
to be a drift of a native
plant. Yet the plant is from
Tibet, and is planted here
because it requires less
care than most native
plants. Dactylorhiza is
also planted in large colorful
areas, and it is also from a colder
climate much further north .
Rhododendrons cover the
hillside at Muckross where
they prosper with little
care, even though they
are not native, because
their basic needs are met by an agreeable
climate. Mount Stewart fills the beds
near the house with foreign perennials
that require no coddling and just a little
pruning. The large leaves of Gunnera
grace many ponds and lakes at the
gardens we visited. The placement of this
perennial along waterways looks like it
belongs, yet the mammoth plant hails
from Brazil , and requires no care - save
planting.
Double herbaceous borders take their
cue from Robinson . They are filled with
hardy perennials, most of which come
from other countries, and bloom every
year. Glasnevin Botanical Garden ,
Hampton Court, and Annes Grove all
have substantial perennial borders.

a sequence of complimentary
colors grading into each other.
She planned beds by the time
of bloom and the color of
bloom, so no combination was
jarring. She strove for the
visual delight of soft colors
blending into each other.
In the double herbaceous borders
witnessed on the trip we saw this was
a lofty goal . Hampton Court had a huge
single border along one side. I walked
the length of it, and it must have been
300 feet long. I doubt that
the border at Hampton
Court would go without
criticism from Jekyll .
Her borders were
changed often to
more closely align with
a new level of beauty. I doubt
any such changes would be easily
implemented with a border of
this size. Jekyll thought
that plants combined
well was akin to high
art rather than just
a collection of plants.
Influence- Gertrude Jekyll
According to Gertrude Jekyll , perennial
gardens require nearly constant
reassessment and imagination , in
order to get closer to perfection . Jekyll
is of the opinion that gardens with
lots of perennials are not necessarily a
garden , but a collection . She felt that
relentless culling and rearranging was
unavoidable maintenance so plants
would bloom complimentarily, and goal
could be achieved by building seasonal
beds, to avoid blank spots. Jekyll was a
consummate colorist and her flowering
beds were harmonious boxes of bloom
colors arranged like a color wheel with
pg 76

I think most people are lucky to get
things to live and be healthy,
let alone softly grade into
delightful color schemes. It is
easier to achieve a Jekyllian
ideal when you live in the
benign climate of England.
Achieving beautiful borders
is probably the most difficult
gardening activity. Anytime you
look closely at most borders, even in
England, you will see a hidden , time-
consuming, infrastructure of pea sticks
and strings that are needed to keep
blooming plants upright, and
to maintains the illusion of
effortless abundance. Often
too, plants are growing
in the greenhouse ready
to be swapped out
when another has finished
blooming, so that the illusion of
unending bloom is fulfilled.
Plants must be attended
to constantly: pruned at
different heights, culled,
or thinned, and the
weeding is endless.
The soil must be amended yearly for the
fast growth required of the perennials.
Fine Art is certainly a lofty goal , but for
most, a group of healthy plants is the best
we can do. Most of us do not have a staff,
a large greenhouse, or the mild climate
required to achieve fine art.
Robinson was on the right track, as far
as, creating a lower maintenance garden
while still contributing to the beauty of
a site. I think once you know how much
work a particular style of garden entails,
it is like finding out a beautiful girl is
not very nice: she doesn’t look quite as
beautiful .
pg 77

pg 78
Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Garden Where Observed-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Luzula nivea
Snowy Wood Rush
Juncaceae
Northeastern Spain
Musee du Quai Brantly
Massed for long-blooming
white flower effect
Massed as a ground cover
or used as a specimen

pg 79
Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Carex pendula
Great Drooping Sedse
Cyperaceae
Europe
Serre de la Madone
Massed along water’s edge
or paths so drooping seed
heads can be appreciated
Ground cover or border
plant

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Clematis tosaensis
Snowy Wood Rush
Ranunculaceae
Eastern Asia
Benmore Botanic
Small vining plant to
grow through and add
flowering interest to non-
blooming shrubs
Flowering vine
pg 80

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Paeonia lutea var. ludlowii
Tibetan Tree Peony
Paeoniaceae
Tibet
Benmore and others
Tall shrub with pretty light
green foliage and spring-
blooming clear-yellow
flowers
Specimen
pg 81

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Rhododendron charitopes
ssp. tsangpoense
Rhododendron
Ericaceae
North Yunnan China
Benmore Botanic
Evergreen foliage shrub
with late Spring-
blooming lavender
flowers
Specimen or shrub border
pg 82

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Pilgerodendron uviferum
Ciprés de las Guaitecas
Cupressaceae
Northern Chile
Benmore
Pyramidal , dense evergreen
reads as blue-green color in
the landscape
Specimen or screen
pg 83

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Lewisia cotyledon
Lewisia
Portulacaceae
Northern California
Bodnant
White or pink flowers
often with center red
stripe
Rock garden specimen
plant, needs sharp
drainage
pg 84

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Calceolaria bicolor
Pocketbook Flower
Scrophulariaceae
Chile, Argentina
Bodnant
Constantly flowering
in cooler climates.
Specimen , massed in
border, or in seasonal
planting
pg 85

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Azara petiolaris
Azara
Flacourtiaceae
Chile, Argentina
Bodnant
Evergreen shrub to 20 feet
tall with yellow blooms in
late Spring, needs some
shade
Espaliered or as a free-
standing specimen
pg 86

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Ceanothus ‘Dark Star’
California lilac
Rhamnaaceae
California
Bodnant
5-6 foot evergreen shrub
covered in cobalt blue
flowers in the late Spring
pg 87

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Campanula thyrsoides
Yellow Bellflower
Campanulaceae
European Alps
Edinburgh
Rock garden plant
flowering in late Spring
with light yellow flowers
Specimen plant
pg 88

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Fritillaria camschatcensis
Kamchatka fritillary
Liliaceae
Japan to North America
Edinburgh
Low-growing bulb with
nearly black flowers
Mass in front border or
specimen in rock garden
pg 89

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Zaluzianskya ovata
Night Phlox
Scrophulariaceae
South Africa
Edinburgh
Small rock garden plant
Spring blooming
pg 90

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Anemone trullifolia
Windflower
Ranunculaceae
Nepal , Bhutan , Sikkim
Benmore and others
Small creeping perennial
with single white or blue
flowers
Specimen rock garden plant
pg 91

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Sutherlandia montana
Balon Pea
Fabaceae
Southern Africa
Edinburgh
Shrub 3 feet high with
striking red flowers
Specimen shrub
pg 92

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Ulex gallii
Western Gorse
Fabaceae
Ireland, England
Edinburgh
Small shrub with needle-
like foliage and yellow
flowers in Autumn and
sometimes Spring
Specimen
pg 93

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Senecio candicans
Giant Wooly Ragweed
Asteraceae
Falkland Islands
Edinburgh
White foliage
insignificant flowers on
small perennial
Border specimen
pg 94

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Gentiana acaulis
Stemless Gentian
Gentianaceae
Europe
Edinburgh
Low-spreading flowering
plant. Difficult to grow,
needs sharp drainage Rock
garden specimen
pg 95

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Vaccinium floribundum
Colombian blueberry
Ericaceae
Andes, Colombia
Edinburgh
3-4footshrubwithcopious
small pink flowers
Flowering shrub for
massing, specimen , or for
wildlife garden
pg 96

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Oxalis enneaphylla
South American Clover
Oxalidaceae
Falkland Islands
Edinburgh
Small flowering alpine
plant
Specimen in rock garden
pg 97

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Penstemon davidsonii
ssp. menziesii
Davidson Penstemon
Scrophulariaceae
Nothwestern
North America
Edinburgh
Small mat-forming,
copious flowers in mid-
summer
Flowering perennial
pg 98

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Ribes speciosum
Fuchsia-Flowering
Gooseberry
Grossulariaceae
Central California Coast to
Baja
Mount Stewart
4-8 ft tall and wide
Spiny, flowering plant
Specimen , barrier, or
hummingbird plant for
wildlife garden
pg 99

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Primula pulverulenta
Candelabra Primula
Primulaceae
Central China
Mount Stewart
and others
Flowering perennial
Good massed near water,
border or specimen plant
pg 100

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Garden Where Observed
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Dendromecon harfordii
Bush Poppy
Papaveraceae
Santa Cruz Islands,
California
Mount Stewart
Large (8-15 feet) flowering
shrub with evergreen blue-
green foliage
Ever-blooming Specimen
Shrub, or espaliered
pg 101

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Sophora tetraptera
Kowhai
Fabaceae
New Zealand
Mount Stewart
Medium-sized tree (20 ft)
covered in clear- yellow
blooms in early summer
Flowering specimen tree
pg 102

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Drimys winteri
Winter’s Bark
Winteraceae
Southern Chile, Argentina
Mount Stewart
Medium-sized tree with
glabrous, evergreen foliage,
attractive mahogany bark,
and copious bunches of
white flowers
Specimen
pg 103

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Olearia phloggopapa
Tasmanian Daisy Bush
Ranunculaceae
Tasmania
Mount Stewart
Medium-sized Flowering
Evergreen Shrub blooms
in late spring
Flowering specimen shrub
pg 104

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Festuca ovina or F. glauca
Shaeep’s Fascue
Graminaceae
Europe
Musee du Quai Branley
Tufted low-growing blue
grass used for color and
textural interest
Specimen in rock garden ,
massed in from of border
pg 105

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Arisaema elephas
Cobra Lily
Araceae
Eastern Asia
Edinburgh
Small blooming perennial
Specimen Flowering
perennial
pg 106

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Strongylodon macrobotrys
Blue Jade Vine
Fabaceae
Philippines
Glasnevin and Edinburgh
Big vine with unusual and
striking blue flowers
Specimen vine
pg 107

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Grevillea rosmarinifolia
Rosemary Grevillea
Proteaceae
Australia
Glasnevin Botanic
Garden
Low-growing evergreen
that blooms in winter
Flowering ground cover
pg 108

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Sanchezia nobilis
Zebra Plant
Acanthaceae
Central & South America
Glasnevin Botanic
Ever-blooming hedge or
shrub, attractive white-
veined green foliage
Specimen or hedge, good
for hummingbird gardens
pg 109

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Eryngium bourgatii
‘Picos Amethyst ’
Sea Holly
Ranunculaceae
Picos Mountains, Spain
Helen Dillon’s Garden
Small perennial with
attractive amethyst blue
flowers and attractive
white- tinged green
foliage
Flowering perennial
specimen
pg 110

Scientific Name-
Common Name-
Family-
Origin-
Landscape Interest-
Garden Function-
Cantua buxifolia
Sacred Flower of the Incas
Polemoniaceae
South America
Glasnevin Botanic
Small , evergreen shrub with
flowers in summer
Hummingbird favorite
pg 111

References
Brenzel, Kathleen Norris. Sunset Western Garden Book. Menlo Park:
Sunset Publishing Corporation. 2007.
Jellicoe, Geoffrey and Jellicoe, Susan. The Landscape of Man. London:
Thames & Hudson, Inc. 1995.
Kelley, John, Hillier, John. The Hillier Gardener’s Guide to Trees and Shrubs:
Pleasantville: Reader’s Digest. 1995.
Mineo, Baldassare, Rock Garden Plants. Portland: Timber Press, 1999.
Rogers, Elizabeth Barlow. Landscape Design. New York:
Harry N. Abrams, Inc. 2001.

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