By Thea Hegland

Here we are in the dog days of summer and The Gardens are rising up to the legendary reputation it is so well known for; the sultry heat and long days bring out the summer flowers and beneficial insects. The magical lawns are lush and tempting to frolic on, trees offering a quiet green space between the seemingly endless paths offer a shady canopy to escape the hot sun. Along the rolling lawns you will find many of the perennial borders of The Gardens. It is here where the native bees and butterflies roam amongst the herbaceous flowers. Monarda (Bee balm), Phlox, Acontitum, and Helianthus are magnetic attractions for these pollinators, bringing all good things to the garden.

One of the many perennial borders that are bountiful with pollen plants for bees, birds and more

Most deserving attention this week is our impressive collection of Lilies. Over 30 varieties of Oriental, Asiatic, Trumpet and other hybrids are among the different varieties found along the borders. The most impressive is the Lilium ‘Conca D’or’ which soars over five feet tall. This soft pale-yellow Lily is a fragrant cross between an Oriental and a Trumpet lily and a noteworthy member of the Lily Hall of Fame.

Lilium ‘Conca D’or’

For those who enjoy heat, venture through the Italian Garden. A burst of hot and spicy colours seem appropriate for this hot spot. Once a tennis court, this formal garden boasts dramatic flower beds filled with Rudbeckia, and Tagetes. The Cross Pond is surrounded by bright red Geraniums and a complimentary Salvia farinacea creating a pleasing focal point. I highly recommend indulging in a refreshing gelato from our Gelateria located right in The Italian Garden – it’s the best way to take in the beautiful surroundings!

A burst of hot and spicy colours fill the Italian Garden

Plants that are currently blooming

• Abutilon (Flowering maple)
• Acanthus spinosus (Bear’s breeches)
• Achillea
• Aconitum (Monkshood)
• Alocasia (Elephant’s ear)
• Anigozanthos (Kangaroo paw)
• Aruncus (Goat’s beard)
• Astilbe
• Astrantia (Masterwort)
• Begonia
• Callistemon
• Catalpa bignonioides (Indian bean tree)
• Centaurea macrocephala (Giant knapweed)
• Cereus ‘Queen of The Night’ (Night blooming cactus)
• Cosmos atrosanguineus (Chocolate cosmos)
• Dahlia
• Delphinium
• Dianthus (Pinks)
• Dierama (Angel’s fishing rod)
• Fuchsia
• Helianthemum (Rock rose)
• Hemerocallis (Daylily)
• Hydrangea
• Iochroma
• Inula
• Lathyrus (Sweet pea)
• Lavendula (Lavender)
• Leptospermum (Tea tree)
• Lilium (Lily)
• Lysimachia
• Olearia (Daisy bush)
• Optunia
• Punica (Pomegranate)
• Romneya coulteri (Tree poppy)
• Rosa (Rose)
• Rudbeckia (Gloriosa daisy)
• Salpiglossis sinuata (Painted tongue)
• Spartium junceum (Spanish broom)
• Streptocarpus (Cape primrose)
• Tecoma
• Thalictrum (Meadow rue)
• Thermopsis villosa (Carolina lupine)
• Thunbergia
• Tradescantia
• Zinnia