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24 Nov 2003 - 31 Dec 2003 Two National Prizes for Richmond's Isabella Plantation Richmond Park Two cups, awarded by the Royal Horticultural Society to The Royal Parks' Isabella Plantation at this year's Main Rhododendron Competition, have just arrived in Richmond Park. The cups were awarded for rhododendrons judged best in their class: the McLaren Challenge Cup for the species Rhododendron niveum; and the Loder Cup, for the hardy hybrid 'Cynthia'. Rhododendrons and azaleas from Isabella Plantation are entered into the RHS competition most years; the gardeners have never returned without one or two first prizes, and occasionally a cup, but to win two cups at the same time is their best achievement so far. The Isabella Plantation is a beautiful woodland garden inside Richmond Park that houses a fine collection of azaleas, including the National Collection of 50 Japanese azalea varieties introduced to the West around 1920 by the famous plant collector, Ernest Wilson. Rhododendrons, camellias, and magnolias thrive under a mature woodland canopy with many other acid-loving plants. Always cared for in traditional ways, for the last 12 years Isabella has been managed organically. Although beautiful at any time of year the Isabella Plantation comes into its own when the azaleas and rhododendrons bloom in April and May. Source: The Royal Parks For further information contact: The Royal Parks Press Office T: 020 7298 2128 E: press@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk Editor's notes: Accompanying Image - Gardeners and Park staff proudly display their two cups against the fiery autumn backdrop of trees by Thomsons Pond in Isabella. Pictured, from the left are: Tom le Friant, Park apprentice; Garry Scarffe, chargehand; Simon Richards, Park Manager; Briony Rowland and Mike Lewis, gardeners; Damien Black, Park warden; Jane Braham, in charge of the Garden; Dick Farr, gardener and Jo Scrivener, Assistant Park Manager. Richmond Park is London's largest Site of Special Scientific Interest, a National Nature Reserve, a candidate European Special Area of Conservation and a Grade 1 Listed landscape. Species records for the Park include 49 grasses, rush and sedges; over 250 fungi; more than 1000 beetles; 546 butterflies and moths; 139 spiders; 144 birds; and 25 mammals. Millions of Londoners and tourists visit the eight Royal Parks for free each year. The 5,000 acres of carefully conserved historic parkland provide unparalleled opportunities for enjoyment, exploration and healthy living in the heart of the capital. The Royal Parks are: Bushy Park, Green Park, Greenwich Park, Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Regent's Park (with Primrose Hill), Richmond Park and St James's Park |
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