Champion Magnolia still in blossom

Despite the last few days blustery and  rainy weather the magnificent champion Magnolia campbellii at Lukesland Gardens, Ivybridge, Devon, is in full bloom, perfectly timed for the start of the garden’s Spring open season on Sunday 29th March.

One of the largest specimens in the country, this splendid magnolia was planted in 1937 by the grandfather of the current owner, John Howell, and is one of many fine and unusual plants in this family-run 24 acre garden on the edge of Dartmoor.

Early-flowering  Rhododendron barbatum, now showing off its gorgeous red blooms, is another specimen well-worth seeing.

The garden and tea room are open through the National Gardens Scheme on Sundays, Wednesdays and Bank Holidays from 11am – 5pm until 14th June. Details at www.lukesland.co.uk