High Beeches Gardens

27 acres of magical and beautiful landscaped woodland and water gardens.
Especially lovely in spring and Autumn. Many rare plants, natural Wildflower Meadows, Tree Trails, Event Days, and always plenty to interest the visitor.

High Beeches Gardens has named a spectacular new Rhododendron ‘Tiger’s Nest’. The beautiful, red, Rhododendron arboreum attracted much notice at the recent South East Region Rhododendron Show, where it was shown for the first time.

The Rhododendron was grown from seed collected by Anne and Edward Boscawen of High Beeches Gardens when they were on a botanical expedition in Bhutan in April 1987. They followed a steep path uphill towards the Taksang Monastry – which is known locally as the Tiger’s Nest as it is perched on the edge of towering cliffs. At 10,000ft they saw a brilliant red Rhododendron growing in arid and scorching conditions. It had survived although the surrounding forest had been cut down and they managed to find some seed. It is thought that the original Rhododendron no longer survives in Bhutan.

Rhododendron arboreum (the Tree Rhododendron) grows widely in the Himalayas, but the best red forms are usually found at lower altitudes and are not usually very hardy in the UK. ‘Tiger’s Nest’ appears to be an exception in proving to be hardy in the UK. The plant is currently some 5 ft tall and will continue to grow. It will be some 5 years before cuttings or layers can be taken for propagation purposes. ‘Tiger’s Nest’ is a species form – meaning that it is a wild form and this particular plant has been selected for colour, beauty and vigour.

High Beeches Gardens covers some 27 acres and is noted for the large collection of species or wild forms of Rhododendrons and other plants. The gardens are laid out in a naturalistic style and include woodland and water. High Beeches celebrated it’s centenary last year. The Boscawen/Bray family have cared for the gardens for almost 50 years.

The Rhododendron Registrar has to confirm that ‘Tiger’s Nest’ is indeed a new species and the list of recognised new species is published worldwide.

Anne Boscawen says “Plant species are being lost around the world at an alarming rate. We are therefore proud to have been able to rescue this fine plant and to ensure its survival.”

Rhododendron arboreum ‘Tiger’s Nest’ can be seen in flower at High Beeches Gardens and is expected to continue flowering until mid May.

Recommended by Stephen Anderton and Christopher Lloyd.
Group Bookings and Guided Tours by Appointment.
Visitors to the gardens may now enjoy lunches and teas in the attractively restored barn licenced restaurant and tearoom.
Conservation Trust. Quality Assured Visitor Attraction.
Registered Charity.