Latest news with #Gardens
The Herald Scotland
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
Castle with gardens inspired by world-renowned artists
A specially curated exhibition of the works of the internationally-acclaimed print maker, who is native to the North East of Scotland, recently opened at the Castle and, inspired by one of Furneaux's abstract works, Daguin has created a striking new planting scheme that has transformed part of Drum's historic walled garden. Two bold beds anchor either side of a dramatic, geometric arbour, a bespoke structure crafted by local blacksmiths in response to Furneaux's use of line and form. Designed by Laurie Daguin, the two bold beds anchor either side of a dramatic, geometric arbour (Image: Discover Gardens) The planting itself mirrors the artist's palette, with layered blocks of yellow, grey, blue and black flowers, contrasted against hard landscaping in natural stone. Together, they offer a dynamic visual echo of Furneaux's work and a contemporary counterpoint to the garden's more traditional sections, which include an old wood of ancient trees, a garden of historic roses and a play park made from natural materials, where young visitors can run off steam. The Irvine family, owners of Drum Castle for over 650 years until the National Trust for Scotland took over its care, were significant patrons of the arts and the permanent collection boasts works by Van Dyck and Raeburn, alongside pieces by established family artists Hugh [[Irvine]] and Anna Margaretta Forbes [[Irvine]]. Another National Trust for Scotland property which has strong links to the world of art is Kellie Castle in Fife, where the garden of the 500-year old property was revived by renowned Scottish architect Robert Lorimer and then by his son, the sculptor Hew Mortimer. Kellie Castle (Image: Discover Gardens) The Mortimers developed an Arts and Crafts theme for the walled garden, filling it with roses, honeysuckle and delphiniums. They also turned a former archery court into a sheltered space for growing peaches, filled the bee boles set into the walls with wicker skeps and allowed hens to roam free amongst the flowerbeds. Their aim was to recreate a traditional Scottish 'pleasaunce', a medieval, enclosed garden set hard against the castle, in contrast to the fashion in later centuries for setting walled gardens at some distance from the main house. The planting mirrors the artist's palette, with layered blocks of yellow, grey, blue and black flowers, contrasted against hard landscaping in natural stone (Image: Discover Gardens) Details The gardens at Drum Castle are open daily, 10.30am - 4pm. The exhibition, 'Paul Furneack: North by East' is free to visit daily until October 31 2025. For more information, visit The grounds are open daily, dawn to dusk and entrance is free. Tel: 01330 700334 Drum@ In Association with Discover Scottish Gardens
The Independent
22-07-2025
- The Independent
‘I'm an expert gardener – Kew is a world-class attraction, but here's what it needs to change'
Kew Gardens, near London 's Richmond Park, is iconic. And its most emblematic feature is the Palm House, which will be closing from 2027 for a five-year refurbishment – part of an ambitious bid by the Gardens to become climate positive by 2030. The Palm House is the world's largest surviving Victorian glasshouse and a symbol of the gardens' innovative history. But the £50m project, that will include temporarily rehoming around 1,300 plants, is sorely needed. It's difficult to say which is more impressive: the grandiose glasshouse, with its whimsical spiral staircases, or the plants for which it was built. Encountering the glasshouse is rather like wandering through a rainforest and happening upon a crumbling historical monument, the white iron striking against lush greenery. However, while the plants have thrived in the balmy temperatures within, the Palm House has not. The rust and corrosion is a result of the same conditions that keep the plants so healthy, and it's hard to ignore. As part of the makeover, the Grade I-listed building will have each of its 16,000 panes of glass replaced, while the frame will repainted in the exact shade used when it first opened to the public in 1848. Perhaps this decay is symbolic of Kew's place in British culture: at once enrapturing and frustrating. In its current iteration, Kew is certainly impressive, and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the capital. But in order to retain its title of a world-class attraction, Kew needs to continue to innovate. A mecca for botanists Happily, there is plenty for the budding gardener to enjoy at present. The Gardens remain a mecca for botanists, home to numerous plants that are now considered extinct in the wild and many more that are critically endangered. Alongside the Chelsea Flower Show, it remains one of the best places for a green-fingered day out – it is easily one of the best things to do with children during the summer holidays. And while London is full of exciting places to visit, Kew Gardens stands out as one of only four places in the city designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is a living monument to centuries of changing fashions and fancies, told through exquisite horticulture. As an ecologist, you only need to say the words 'rare plant' to me, and I'll be there. But if this sounds too academic, fear not. Kew has a lot more to offer than just its plant collections. Younger visitors have long delighted in splashing and climbing their way through the Children's Garden, while the wheelchair-accessible Treetop Walkway takes visitors high up into the canopy. Guests who are happier keeping their feet on the ground can find numerous walking trails throughout the site (plus picturesque picnic spots). With over 300 acres to explore, it's easy to forget you are still in London, just a stones' throw from the hustle and bustle of Kensington. It's equipped with numerous greenhouses, cafes, restaurants, a library and a gallery, meaning there is plenty to keep you occupied on a rainy day. Cacti and waterlilies One of my favourite things to do while exploring Kew is to visit the Princess of Wales Conservatory. Within, guests can wander through ten different climatic areas, from a wet tropical zone to an arid desert, complete with prickly cacti. The conservatory is also home to a fabulous species of giant waterlily, Victoria boliviana, whose huge pads float like boats on the pond. These are particularly special as the variety was discovered at Kew itself. Visitors used to be able to spot the glasshouse's very own pest control unit here, comprising a burly group of water dragons. These striking lizards were a delight to watch, lazing around or skittering between plants, taking their role of bug patrol very seriously. Sadly, the creatures are no longer resident in the spot – but wildlife, especially butterflies and bees, are in abundance. What Kew needs to do With the refurbishment, Kew is recommitting itself to preserving biodiversity and becoming more sustainable. Still, there's more the Gardens could be doing. I'd love to see more information around the gardens about Kew's global research projects – from seed banks in the Alps to plant conservation in Angola. The Eden Project, in Cornwall, is particularly good at signposting its work in this department, and Kew could learn something here. With approximately 2.45 million visitors a year, Kew's potential for educating the public is vast and I believe this could be better expressed. I'd love to see more interactive displays teaching visitors about environmental issues, or simply more information about how to make their own gardens a force for good in the world. Visiting Kew Gardens is a remarkable, transformative excursion: a chance to explore the world's landscapes for a fraction of the cost of a plane ticket. Once completed, the restoration of the Palm House will be a powerful symbol of a changing British institution. What began as a collection of flowers has now become a frontline in the battle against climate change. The changes to the glasshouse are a clear message that we can create a better environmental future, while continuing to preserve our heritage.
Straits Times
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Medallions with Singapore Botanic Gardens' iconic landmarks launched to mark milestone-filled year
Find out what's new on ST website and app. Each medallion, available in both gold and silver, commemorates one of its landmark anniversaries. SINGAPORE - Collectors can now get their hands on three intricately designed commemorative medallions marking several key milestones in 2025 for the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Launched by the Singapore Mint as part of a special collaboration with the Gardens, the medallions feature its three iconic landmarks - the Bandstand, the Singapore Herbarium, and the Burkin Hall at the National Orchid Garden. Each medallion, available in both gold and silver, commemorates one of its landmark anniversaries, the National Parks Board said in a statement. These are the 10th anniversary of Gardens' inception as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the 30th anniversary of the National Orchid Garden, and the 150th anniversary of the Singapore Herbarium and Library of Botany and Horticulture. The medallions are sold individually and in three-in-one collector sets, and can be purchased at all Singapore Mint retail outlets and on . Light shows, performances and other festivities For the first time, visitors can enjoy a nightly light show at the Gardens and watch the Swan Lake and Tanglin Gate bathed in multi-coloured light. The light show will take place between 7.30pm and 10pm, from July 19 to Aug 10. It will be complemented by light installations at the Bandstand, Clock Tower at Orchid Plaza, and Palm Court near Nassim Visitor Services Centre. Light shows will take place daily at two locations in the Gardens - Swan Lake and Tanglin Gate. PHOTO: NATIONAL PARKS BOARD The light-up is part of the 10th edition of the Singapore Botanic Gardens Heritage Festival held from July 19 to 27 and featuring over 40 free activities for visitors. Other festival highlights include musical performances, outdoor movie screenings, guided tours and hands-on workshops. Visitors can step into the shoes of scientists, with a workshop allowing them to conduct practical laboratory tasks, such as DNA extraction using bananas and cell staining with onion roots. This allows them to take a glimpse into the plant conservation work that happens behind the scenes in the Gardens. The Gardens has also released the second edition of Gardens of Perpetual Summer, a publication that traces its history and legacy since its establishment in 1859. The first edition was published in 2009 to mark its 150th anniversary. The book can be purchased at the Gardens Shop and online . The annual orchid show This year marks the 30th anniversary of the National Orchid Garden, which will play host to the Singapore Garden Festival (SGF) Orchid Show from July 19 to 27. The show will feature an orchid competition with 75 categories. PHOTO: NATIONAL PARKS BOARD The show, organised by NParks and the Orchid Society of South-east Asia (OSSEA), will feature an orchid competition with 75 categories. The public can view all competition entries, including the winning orchids across all categories, at Burkill Hall and Tropical Montane Orchidetum at the National Orchid Garden. Singapore residents can enjoy free entry during the Orchid Show and go on free guided tours, which are available daily.
The Independent
09-07-2025
- General
- The Independent
Crowds flock to see rare corpse flower bloom
A rare corpse flower, also known as the titan arum, has begun blooming in California at the Gardens Golden Gate Park. When in full bloom, the endangered flower emits a pungent odour comparable to rotten flesh. This distinctive bloom only lasts for two days and occurs just once every three to five years. Native to Sumatra, Indonesia, the Titan Arum can grow up to 10ft tall. Watch the video in full above.
The Independent
09-07-2025
- General
- The Independent
Rare notoriously stinky flower begins blooming in California
A rare flower that is known for its distinctive foul smell has begun blooming in California. Footage shows the corpse flower, also known as the Titan Arum, in bloom at the Gardens Golden Gate Park on Tuesday (8 July). The flower omits the pungent odor that is comparable to rotten flesh when it is in full bloom, which only lasts for two days and only happens once every three to five years. The endangered corpse flowers are native to Sumatra, Indonesia and can grow up to 10ft tall.
