Heligan Survivors: An Introduction to Some of the Historic Plantstock Discovered in the Lost Gardens of Heligan

Initially inaccessible and swamped by overgrowth when the Lost Gardens were rediscovered in 1990, much of Heligan’s valuable woody plantstock was subsequently identified and protected during the course of clearance by Philip McMillan Browse, then Cornwall County Council Horticultural Advisor (and former Director of RHS Wisley). Philip later became Heligan’s first Horticultural Director, and encouraged his team to research into the origins of the veteran specimens in their care. Some individuals are rare indeed – and vulnerable in their old age. Some have grown to extraordinary height during their battle for light during the era of dereliction. Others represent possibly the very earliest introductions to Britain. All have stories to tell, and contribute to the unique character and atmosphere of the Gardens. We want to ensure everyone can fully appreciate and enjoy them now, before their inevitable demise. The preparation of this volume has been a collective project by the Heligan staff. It introduces four generations of the Tremaynes, who created and developed the Gardens up until the First World War. Against a backdrop of avid, world-wide plant collecting, it features 28 of the trees and woody plants that the family secured for this captivating place during that period – exotics, conifers, climbers, ornamental and productive trees. It is richly illustrated with photographs, all taken at Heligan, either then or now, which provide a lasting record celebrating Heligan’s Survivors. Second- and third-generation plantstock is currently being propagated on site from the original heritage plants, to provide replacements for the Gardens in due course – and to enable others to acquire a small piece of Heligan history to take home and grow on, into their own future.