Stuart

Plants

The Stuart period saw spectacular growth in domestic flower cultivation. A great number of what were then considered to be exotic flowers and shrubs arrived, like the lupins, phlox and michaelmas daisies shown in the picture, which are now common garden flowers.

New plants were brought first from from southern Europe, and then from America and South Africa.

Plant nurseries were opened. They were only found near London in the beginning. Aristocrats would send to London for seeds or plants just as they would for the latest fashions.

The planting of avenues of trees leading up to a stately home became very much the fashion. Usually these would be elms, limes or, as at Aston Hall, chestnuts.

What visual statement (impression given to those seeing it) do you think was being made with the avenues of trees?

Click the picture for an answer.