Our Head Gardener points out what to look out for during May…

The wildflower area surrounding the ‘Daphne’ statue bursts into life this time of year. There is currently a stunning display of blue Camassia leichtlinii in full bloom, creating a breathtaking sight.

Ornamental flowering crab apples are also in bloom, adorned with pink, purple, and white blossoms that can be spotted throughout the arboretum.

Look for the vibrant orange flowers of Berberis darwinii and the subtly scented yellow blooms of Chilean Berberis valdiviana.

Don’t miss the exquisite Viburnum × carlcephalum with its beautifully perfumed white flowers, located just beneath the large Davidia tree (mentioned below) near the stream.

Be sure to seek out the last remaining ornamental cherries, Prunus ‘Royal Burgundy,’ which features striking purple leaves and pink flowers.

In late May, the ornamental flowering dogwoods should not be overlooked; Cornus ‘Norman Hadden’ and Cornus ‘Porlock’ showcase impressive flowerheads that can grow up to 8cm wide, adorned with four ovate white bracts that gradually turn pink with age. Both varieties are covered in bracts, creating a spectacular view found at the lower front of the Rest House, near Lord Dulverton and Ken Hope’s memorial benches.

 

Lastly, a visit to Batsford in May wouldn’t be complete without marvelling at our enchanting ‘Pocket Handkerchief Tree’ (Davidia involucrata)!