Here are a few highlights to look out for in the arboretum during April…

April is a truly special time to visit, as the flowering Japanese cherries and magnolias come into their own. There is an abundance of pink, white, and soft purple blossom fills the landscape, making this a season not to be missed.

At present, beautiful displays of Japanese cherries can be found along the boardwalk leading down from the top car park. Among them are the elegant white blooms of Prunus ‘Tai-haku’ – the Great White Cherry – and the soft pink, semi-double flowers of Prunus ‘Horinji’. Many more varieties in this area are yet to reach their peak and will continue to flower over the coming weeks.

Further into the arboretum, Japanese cherries become even more prominent. Along the main drive, you’ll find the vibrant pink blossoms of ‘Hisakura’ and the delicate white flowers of ‘Hatazakura’.

There are also impressive group plantings of Japanese cherries near the Anne Frank Horse Chestnut and by the lake in Seven Leys. Both locations currently showcase trees in full bloom, creating truly striking displays.

Magnolias are another highlight at this time of year, offering an incredible variety of white, pink, and purple flowers. Notable varieties include Magnolia campbellii ‘Darjeeling’, with its rich deep pink blooms located just below Sisters Pool, as well as Magnolia ‘Star Wars’ and Magnolia ‘Treve Holman’, both adding soft pink tones along the main drive.

Seasonal favourites such as daffodils, hellebores, and primroses are still providing excellent displays, while cowslips are just beginning to appear.

You may also spot Fritillaria meleagris, with its distinctive white and maroon chequered flowers scattered through grassy areas. Meanwhile, Fritillaria imperialis (Crown Imperial), with its tall stems and striking pendant red, bell-shaped flowers, can be found along Her Ladyship’s Walk – the entrance path into the arboretum.

Buds are now forming on Paulownia fortunei ‘Fast Blue’, also known as the Foxglove Tree due to its beautifully shaped, lightly scented lilac-blue flowers. This spectacular tree, located along Her Ladyship’s Walk, is expected to flower in mid-April and is well worth seeing.

Elsewhere, the bright yellow blooms of skunk cabbage and marsh marigolds will soon emerge around Rockery Bridge and within the swamp areas.

Japanese and species maples are beginning to leaf, bringing fresh vibrancy and a palette of colours ranging from yellow and orange to red and soft salmon pink.

 

Finally, keep an eye out for the striking carpets of wild garlic, along with scattered displays of bluebells in Church Piece – at the far end of the arboretum – which typically appear from mid-April through to May.