A visit to John's Native Gardens

On Saturday, we made a spur-of-the-moment decision to take a trip to Scottsboro, Alabama (about 2 hours away) to visit John's Native Gardens. Eve at Sunny Side Up had written to me and suggested this garden for an article. The garden features native azaleas and rhododendrons so I knew I needed to get on the ball to get the required photos. Despite leaving in a heavy drizzle and even some brief downpours, the weather in Scottsboro was dry and perfect. It turned out to be a wonderful trip. Not only were the gardens fantastic but we also received a warm welcome from LaRue Anderson, the garden owner, and fellow blogger Eve, who also made the trip over from her hometown about 20 minutes away.

LaRue's husband John started the garden in the late 80s. He died in 2000 and LaRue has continued maintaining the gardens as well as opening an on-site nursery. John Anderson was first interested in native azaleas and rhododendrons. He later became interested in Japanese Maples and conifers. The garden sits on a hillside with expansive views of lush plantings and an enormous pond that the Anderson's dug when they first moved in. The wooded hillside is dotted with rhododendrons and azaleas that thrive under a canopy of pine trees.

Plantings near the house are composed in island beds. This bed near the garage features Japanese Maples, roses and evergreen shrubs. A paperbark maple (right) grows in the background.

Beautiful rock walls showcase the borders filled with perennials like peony and iris.

The charming porch is surrounded by ferns and potted plants. LaRue has a great collection of birdhouses and garden ornaments.

Asian Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Goshiki Kazura).
I've never seen one so healthy and lush as this one.

Iris fulva (Copper Iris)

Inside the carport that frames a stunning view.

Japanese Maple "Skeeters Broom"

Japanese Maple "Viridis"

One of the largest Japanese Maples on the property (I didn't get the name).

Five-Leaf Akebia (Chocolate Vine) (Akebia quinata),
one of my favorite vines, grows on a tree trunk
next to a pink azalea.

Another awesome view behind the house. An immense Cork Screw Willow
(Salix matsudana) can be seen in the background.

Approaching the woodland garden. Cucumber Magnolia (Magnolia acuminata)

We missed the native azalea display but the rhododendrons were putting on a show.

A beautifully shaped specimen.

Rhododendron "Cynthia"

One last glimpse at the gorgeous color of the Japanese Maples.

The Japanese Maple in the foreground is growing in a pot.
If memory serves me correctly, this is "Dancing Girl".

Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy