More than 100 different species of Cornus (Dogwood) have been providing the best display of colour for years at Newby Hall, near Ripon, as the changeable weather encourages the growth of all kinds of blooms in the world-famous gardens.
The striking displays come from Newby Hall's National Collection of Cornus. Newby's first two Cornus trees were planted before the Second World War, by Edward Compton. After his death, his son, Robin, took over care of the garden and started to colle
ct more.
As chairman of the National Council for the Conservation of Plants and Gardens, in 1990 he secured National Collection status, and the collection took off. Although the care of Newby Hall has passed to Robin's son, Richard, Robin still runs the collection and curates the gardens.
Certain varieties of Dogwood – with brightly coloured stems and branches – have recently become popular in gardens as a way of adding winter colour, but as visitors to Newby over the coming weeks will see, the trees can also add charm to the garden during the summer months.
Some carry white, cream or pink 'bracts' – leaves that resemble petals –which surround the flowers. When the bracts drop, they leave attractive fruits which look like strawberries.
Other varieties and cultivars are known for their attractive foliage in differing shapes and variegations, including Cornus Controversa Variegata – which is commonly known as a 'Wedding Cake Tree', because of its horizontal, tiered branches with silver-margined leaves and white flowers.
For more information, contact Newby Hall on 0845 4504068 or visit www.newbyhall.com
