Savill Gardens, Windsor, selected plants, 6th February 2016

We were on a weekend break in Windsor and Surrey, an area that was even more enjoyable than I had envisaged. One of the highlights was to visit the Savill gardens, a woodland garden created by Sir Eric Savill in the 1930's, a royal garden of note and a must for any lover of plants, of whom there must be many judging by the sheer numbers of visitors on the weekend of 5th - 7th February. We visited twice, once in the tranquility of late Friday afternoon, secondly with our family on a busy and sunny Sunday. Cutting to the chase, here are some plants among many that I found interesting.

The stream and display of dogwoods was inspiring.

Mucronulatum "Cornell Pink" was particularly interesting seeing as I have one in a pot awaiting a decision from the head gardener about positioning.

Three children were paddling in the stream, or rather one managed it! Notice the Narcissus cyclamineus enjoying the moist conditions and seeding itself.

Crocus planted in an ideal setting.

When not paddling our grandchildren posed in front of the camellia. "Inspiration", I think.

Acer tegmentosum 'Valley Phantom' was dramatic and so well named. Whether it is to my taste is a different matter.

Betula utilis jacquemontii "Grayswood Ghost" is more to my liking.

Cornus sanguinea 'Anny's Winter Orange' is an inexpensive shrub and the brightest orange dogwood on the market. I may now replace a variegated form that grows like bamboo.