Kiftsgate Court Gardens
Just right down the road from Hidcote is Kiftsgate Court Gardens. This garden was created by Heather Muir beginning in the 1920s. Muir's daughter, Diany Binny, came to live at Kiftsgate in 1954. She would add the half-moon pool and redesigned the white garden. She also first opened the garden to the public. Today, the tradition continues as granddaughter Anne Chambers and her husband maintain the gardens. Heather Muir was a friend and neighbor of Hidcote's Lawrence Johnston (their houses are within one mile of each other), and he inspired her in the garden's design. However, the two gardens differ in character and have their own unique characteristics. While Johnston's garden is laid out in strict geometric lines, Muir took a more naturalistic approach. Muir added many heirloom shrub roses to the garden and is famous for the 'Kiftsgate' rose, which occurred from a seedling in the garden. Unfortunately, we were too early for the roses. There were a few like t...
Wow Philip... I wasn't prepared to think magnolias would be in bloom already... even in the south! i've been poring over a list of magnolias for the past couple days... I've got it pared down to thirteen would you believe?! This is tough... wishing I had more space. Maybe it's time to remove more trees to make space for improved varieties... a hard decision. Larry
ReplyDeleteStar Magnolias are gorgeous in bud and stunning in flower. The rest of the year... Beautiful picture Phillip!
ReplyDeletePhillip, I love this shot, you've captured the beauty of Star Magnolia!
ReplyDeleteMine will like wise be wiped out, too. Such is the fate of this too early bloomer! gail
This is a great shot. You are lucky to have any blooms at this time. You can savor them. I noticed that your garden got a nod in Pam's book. Great!
ReplyDeletePretty! And I bet it smells wonderful, too! I don't usually see this type of magnolia here - its petals look quite delicate.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous bloom and photo! Jeannine
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