Spring
The stirring of new growth in the arboretum during spring is a very special time in the arboretum when the opening of flowers and new leaves soften the sharp outlines of the bare winter trees. Throughout the arboretum magnificent magnolias, camellias and rhododendrons take central stage, while equally enchanting swaths of daffodils are the chief delight in the Daffodil Patch and Basinhead.
Although at their best in winter, the camellias with their exotic red, white or pink rose-like blooms and glossy evergreen leaves look somewhat unreal under the bare trees. The spring flowering magnolia species are stunning with their flowers appearing before the new leaves as if to prevent any distractions. Unfortunately their flowers are very susceptible to frost and one hard night can quickly turn their pink flowers brown. However if their flowering coincides with a mild spell the sight can be truly spectacular.
A walk through the arboretum’s more natural woodland areas provides a contrasting but no less impressive sight during the spring. Here the freshness of the new foliage on the deciduous trees is as lush as a tropical jungle.
Late winter and springtime brings a cacophony of birdsong which is particularly notable in the arboretum with the large number of tui (up to 30 in one tree) and bellbirds feeding on the nectar of the flowering cherries.
Spring Photos
Click to see larger image.
