What’s in Bloom

Magnolia 'Ann' is one of the eight "little girl" hybrids developed at the National Arboretum in Washington DC.  This magnolia is a modern Yulan hybrid, selected for traits exemplifying the best components of both parents, in particular her late bloom period. The early flowering nature of the Asiatic magnolias has been a big driver of their popularity in western gardens since their introduction in the late 1700s, especially the production of delicate blooms on leafless branches. This does however lead to problems in the colder northeastern regions of the US where late frosts can devastate magnolia displays if flowers are already open. Breeders have worked to produce Yulan magnolias that fit the new climates that they are exposed to as avid gardeners seek to plant them in their gardens.

Tower-of-jewels is native to the Canary Islands, specifically the island of Tenerife.  The seeds of this plant first came to Longwood in 1983 and it took extensive research on how to grow it until it was first displayed in the the Conservatory in 1991.  

We herald spring’s arrival with thousands of tulips beautifully displayed along our Flower Garden Walk. Tulips are organized into 15 divisions based on flower shape and origin. ‘Big Love’ is a Darwin hybrid tulip. This division has cup-shaped flowers on tall, strong stems and is one of the most popular tulip types.