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...
A gorgeous color and form for the garden.
ReplyDeleteI bought one of these in May, and have yet to figure out where to put it, but I had to have it.
ReplyDeleteGreat plant, Phillip. I spent ten minutes trying to figure out why the genus Aralia sounds so familiar to me, but I can't. Do you know if it's hardy to Zone 5?
ReplyDeleteSome sources say zone 3, most say zone 4. So it should work for you!
DeleteBeautiful!
ReplyDeleteI'm trying to grow native Aralia racemosa this year for the 1st time.
So far, it's been a steady if not spectacular performer, but I have a feeling it's just settling in for the long haul...
(At least, I hope so!) :)
I just planted some a few weeks ago and they still have a way to go before reaching that size, thanks for the timely inspiration!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! I really love these. Ya gotta love a bright plant for shade. :o)
ReplyDeleteThat really lights up a shady spot! Wonderful. The three leaf textures in the foreground, so simple and elegant. It is interesting that while that lovely plant is not appropriate to my climate, we have a golden Duranta that provides the same effect.
ReplyDeletePhillip, this is beautiful a beautiful aralia. I love the color! I must do some research to see what growing conditions it likes, but I suspect if it will grow for you, it will grow for me too!
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