Tropical paradise at Arundel Castle
The summer sun has brought a flamboyant display of lilies, dahlias and wildflowers to life throughout the Walled Gardens at Arundel Castle.
Visitors will be able to see thousands of exotic flowers, striking foliage and ripening fruits from all around the world throughout July and August.
While many stately homes favour a manicured style, Head Gardener Martin Duncan has lovingly curated an immersive tropical paradise in the heart of Sussex allowing visitors to experience the combination of a classic English summer garden with more innovative landscaping which takes inspiration from nature.
The hot borders in The Collector Earl’s Gardenare bursting with bright lilies and striking dahlias blooming in eye-catching shades of red, orange and yellow. Visitors will be able to spot the African Queen’sbright apricot-orange trumpets and the South American Canna Iridiflora’sshowstopping, deep rose-pink flowers and Tamarilla Tree Tomatoes eight feet tall.
Meanwhile, the whimsical Stumperyshowcases the unusual Asian TricyrtisToad Lilly and the elegant, arching Dierama(Angels’ Fishing Rods) from Africa amongst the ancient, overturned stumps.
Dahlias, which are native to South America and were first cultivated by the Aztecs, flash shades of warm bronze, velvety crimson, and brilliant red throughout the borders. They’re also a favourite of butterflies and bees. Meanwhile, a fantastic display of ‘Dinnerplate’ Babylon Dahliaswith enormous flower headsreach up to a metre tall in the Cut Flower Garden.
Also, an abundance of summer fruits such as apples, pears and raspberries are ripening in the Organic Kitchen Garden, with exotic paw paws, bananas, guava and even a Baobab tree in the Tropical Glass House.
Visitors can find inspiration for their own gardens, with the gardening staff on hand to answer any questions and to offer their top tips on creating exotic borders.
Martin commented: “The Gardens are looking their absolute best this year, there is so much to see and marvel at, especially in the tropical borders. We love to chat with visitors about the various unusual plants and unexpected arrangements!”
The Gardens can be enjoyed with the purchase of any ticket, starting from £11 for children and £13 for adults.
For more information regarding the gardens and all the events taking place at the Castle please visit: www.arundelcastle.org.