East gate modelled on R calophytum

Crafted from steel in the heat of a forge the gates at the top of the east drive are best appreciated when the early morning sun is reflecting off the bright steel from which they were skilfully crafted.

Look at the detail in the leaf and admire the leaf trusses with flower bud. From the workshop of blacksmith Alan Dawson. Commissioned by the Friends of the Garden, installed in 1996.

From here take a walk to the copse; appreciate the real thing. A magnificent towering mature Rhododendron calophytum var. calophytum is in full bloom. Collected by Ernest Wilson in the mountains of Sichuan Province, China at c.3000m.

The flower trusses are covering the plant white petals, pink rib and a mottled interior. The prominent and dominant style completes the floral picture.

Rhododendron calophytum var calophytum

Rhododendron calophytum var calophytum