Every month we feature two blogs written by volunteers, one describes an object in the Palace and one a plant from the Garden. It is great way for us all to learn more about the Palace, if you would like to contribute there is no set format so please do send us your ideas!
First impressions
As I approached this pretty tree-like shrub laden with flowers in mid-bloom, I was subtly saluted by a heavenly, honey aroma. Indeed to get a good fragrance hit I did have to stick my nose among the flowers and it was well worth it. I was rewarded with an incredibly calming, uplifting and highly fragrant scent.
Wintersweet at Fulham Palace
What is it and where is it?
You can find this marvel outside the Chaplain’s Garden wall facing the paddock and the main entrance. Branchy and in prime location for flowering and showcasing the small, delicate bursts of yellow flowers, Wintersweet although quite modest in the normal growing season, comes alive in the dead of winter!
Wintersweet shrub in front of the Chaplain's Garden
What does it look like?
The butter-yellow flowers of the Wintersweet are stained purple/maroon inside and have two sets of petals which, though waxy, look like they were made from fairy fabric. These sweetly scented blooms, dangle beautifully and elegantly in small groups or solo.
Wintersweet exude pleasant fragrance at Fulham Palace
Anything else?
Taking several years to flower, Wintersweet are not found in every garden. In fact, there were once numerous shrubs bordering the Chaplain Garden’s wall. This robust specimen is the only one which still proudly stands. How fortunate we are to have this elegant winter-flowering shrub, with its exquisite fragrance, to appreciate. Thanks to Lucy, the head gardener and her amazing team, the Wintersweet at Fulham Palace is thriving. So, pay it a visit. Marvel in its display and enjoy its divine bouquet.
Kathleen McCulloch, Garden Volunteer
Please send your ideas for Object / Specimen of the Month blogs to rachel.bray@fulhampalace.org If you would like some help, let us know.