Key facts:
- Size: 26 acres and includes a private beach on the Helford River.
- Age: Started in the 1840s by Charles Fox.
- Planting Style: Trebah is a sub-tropical ravine garden that utilises the mild Cornish climate to grow exotic plants from around the world.
- Open to the Public: Yes, Trebah Garden is an independent registered charity that is open to the public year-round.
A sub-tropical paradise nestled in a secluded Cornish valley, Trebah Garden is a horticultural gem that transports visitors to a world of exotic plants and stunning landscapes. It’s not just a garden; it’s a testament to the power of a unique microclimate and the dedication of passionate gardeners throughout history.
A Rich and Varied History
Trebah’s story began in 1831 when it was acquired by the Fox family, a well-known Quaker dynasty of gardeners in Cornwall. Charles Fox, a polymath with a keen eye for detail, was the first to lay out the pleasure garden. He meticulously planned the placement of every tree and created the foundational framework of paths and shelterbelts that still shape the garden today. As a shipping agent, he also arranged for shipments of rare and exotic plants from all over the world to be brought to Trebah, setting the stage for its future as a subtropical haven.The garden passed through several hands over the centuries, each owner leaving their mark. In the early 20th century, the Hext family brought the garden to its “peak of perfection” with a large team of gardeners. However, after World War II, the garden fell into a period of neglect and was sold off multiple times.The garden’s fate changed in 1981 when Major and Mrs. Tony Hibbert bought Trebah as their retirement home. With the encouragement of the Cornwall Garden Trust, they embarked on a massive restoration project and, in 1987, opened the garden to the public to fund the ongoing work. The garden is now run as a registered charity, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The Secret to Subtropical Success: A Unique Microclimate
Trebah’s ability to flourish with exotic, often tender, plants is due to its remarkable microclimate. Situated on the south coast of Cornwall, the garden is protected from harsh winds and frost by the surrounding wooded valley. This sheltered position, combined with the moderating influence of the nearby Helford River, creates a frost-free, humid environment that mimics a subtropical paradise. The high rainfall and naturally acidic soil also contribute to the lush, vibrant growth of a wide range of plants.This perfect combination of factors allows plants that would normally struggle in the UK climate to thrive. The sheltered valley and proximity to the water act as a natural greenhouse, providing the ideal conditions for plants from the Southern Hemisphere and other subtropical regions.
A Gardener’s Dream: Plants you’ll find
Trebah’s 26-acre landscape is a feast for the eyes, with new delights around every corner. For the novice gardener, the sheer scale and variety of plants are breathtaking. You’ll find yourself wandering through a “jungle” of lush ferns and palms, admiring the massive leaves of the Gunnera manicata, and getting lost in the famous Hydrangea Valley, which bursts with a vibrant sea of blue, pink, and white blooms in the summer.For the more experienced gardener, Trebah offers a masterclass in exotic planting and a chance to see some truly spectacular and rare specimens. Here are a few notable examples:
- Tree Ferns (Dicksonia antartica & Cyathea sp.): Trebah is home to groves of these prehistoric-looking ferns, which thrive in the humid, sheltered valley. *
- Chusan Palms (Trachycarpus fortunei): A champion specimen of this fan palm, which reaches nearly 15 metres, can be found here. *
- Rhododendrons and Camellias: The garden’s spring is renowned for its century-old rhododendrons and camellias, which create a magnificent display of colour.
- Champion Trees: Trebah is home to several UK Champion Trees, which are the tallest or have the widest girth of their species in the country.
- Exotic Salvias: In the Court Garden, you can find a variety of exotic salvias that thrive in the warmer microclimate, such as Salvia leucantha.
- Ginger Lilies (Hedychium): Fragrant and exotic, these plants add to the tropical feel of the garden.
Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist or simply looking for a beautiful place to walk, Trebah Garden’s unique history and incredible planting will leave a lasting impression. It’s a true Cornish treasure that proves what’s possible when nature and human effort come together in perfect harmony.
