In my family, Cartmel in Cumbria, has long been associated with sensory delights, being the home of Sticky Toffee Pudding, a favourite with my boys and always provided by their grandmother on our trips North. But after a recent trip to this area I can assure you that all your senses will have a treat with a visit to Holker Hall – home of the National Plant Collection of Styracaceae.
From the dramatic ‘Capability Brown’ style entrance drive
through the formal gardens planted out with tulips
the labyrinth
and the sundial
to the woodland, home for the National Collection.
Styrax is the largest genus in this family, but this Collection also covers Halesia, Pterostyrax and Sinojackia. Small graceful trees found in Europe, Asia and America, they have dainty pale flowers in the spring which were just about to open on our visit. This specimen of Styrax japonica…
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Old School Garden 