Camellias at Bloom in Exbury

Worldwide camellia experts home in on Exbury

Distinguished members of the International Camellia Society are coming to Exbury in March to enjoy the thousands of camellias flourishing in the 200 acre woodland Gardens.

The visit, just after award-winning Exbury opens for the 2008 season, is the focal point of the trip for the many enthusiasts, who are travelling from all over the world to see their favourite flower.

Exbury, owned by the Rothschild family, is famous for its early colour and the unrivalled plant collections carefully put together over almost ninety years.

“We have more than 2000 camellias in the Gardens and at least 250 different varieties, some of which were bred here and are called after family members,” said head gardener John Anderson.

One of these ‘Exbury specials’ is named after Charlotte de Rothschild, who is involved in the day-to-day management of the Gardens. ‘Charlotte de Rothschild’ (the camellia) has a beautiful white blossom with yellow stamens.

Exbury one of the country’s top camellia gardens, continues to win numerous awards for its collections, including many prizes and medals for the quality of camellias at last year’s RHS shows.

“The new Camellia Walk, planted seven years ago, is reaching maturity and has proved well worth the wait,” said John, who revealed that Exbury has several examples of a camellia that may not look spectacular but is grown world wide more than any other.

“Camellia sinensis is the shrub whose leaves are used to make tea. We’ve got them at Exbury - but I don’t think anyone’s ever made a brew out of them,” he said.

Exbury opens on Saturday March 8, bursting with colour.

“The daffodil meadow is in full bloom, the camellias will be looking fantastic and the heather garden wonderful. Swathes of spring bulbs will be in full flower and many of the early rhododendrons in full bloom too,” said John. “We’re looking forward to the growth in the new ‘Jurassic Boardwalk’ area and to the hydrangea walk,” he said.

As well as the outdoor spectacle, visitors to Exbury in March will be able to enjoy a display of rare South African Lachenalias in the Five Arrows gallery.

Exbury is open daily (10.00am-5.30pm) from March 8 until Sunday November 9. Please telephone 023 8089 1203 or visit www.exbury.co.uk for more information.