Take a tour of rare and unusual plants in Stephen Ryan’s wondrous Tugurium, presented by Open Gardens Victoria.
The stunning woodland-style private garden in Macedon will be open to the public in its late-winter showcase on August 27 and 28.
Garden expert, radio personality and nurseryman Ryan said he hoped visitors would take away an appreciation for his use of “foliages, textures and forms”.
“I have to admit at this time of year it’s a little more minimal for flowers but that shouldn’t stop people getting some inspiration about how to use different plants in different ways, making different combinations that can be pleasing to the eye,” Ryan said.
Wander through plantings boasting small flourishes of floral plumes and colour, adorning the garden in colder months. Highlights will include flowering hellebores, brugmansia (Angel’s Trumpets), Cyclamen coum and various winter flowering bulbs.
The garden also features Acanthus, Sambucus and Osmanthus, all species on the Plant Trust National Plant Collections Register.
“Although it’s a rather odd time of year to do an opening… I’ve always been a great believer in the fact that the garden is somewhere that should entertain you all year round,” Ryan said.
Also at the open days will be the chance to view and purchase Craig Lidgerwood’s stunning botanic artwork, as well as peruse Ryan’s collection of rare plants for sale at his nearby nursery, Dicksonia Rare Plants.
Meander down winding, leafy paths, visit a tranquil pond, a small orchard and neighbouring vegetable garden, let the kids discover delightful garden curiosities – including happy ducks and chooks.
The Tugurium will be open 10am to 4.30pm at 8-10 Centenary Avenue, Macedon, with morning and afternoon tea available. Tickets are $10 for adults, $6 for students and free for people under 18 years old.
Details: www.trybooking.com/events/landing?eid=926789&
Elsie Lange
