Compared to many of the top Devon gardens
Marwood is a relative newcomer. The gardens
were begun in 1950, at which time they consisted
of little more than a simple walled garden.
Since then an extensive program of planting
and landscaping has resulted in a garden
that is one of the great undiscovered pleasures
of the county. Two lakes have been created,
one with an island at its centre.
There are now over 3000 different varieties
of plants spread over 20 acres. There is
a greenhouse collection of Antipodean plants,
and the national collection of camellias,
with over 100 plants creating a cascade
of colours in March and April. As well,
Marwood boasts one of the largest collection
of Astilbe plants in the world.
Other highlights are notable collections
of willows and ferns, a rock garden, scented
arbour, walled gardens, climbing plants,
alpines, and bog plants. Best in: March-August.
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