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 a 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!
In our remarkable botanical garden, there’s a noble Magnolia tree. When blossoming it’s perhaps, one of the most visually appealing trees at the Fulham Palace. It grows by the entrance to the Walled Garden - as a beautiful and warm welcome to those who wish to enter. Usually, this unique tree blooms anytime between February and July and its colours vary from white to vivid purple. When blossoming, the tree is fully covered by large flowers which somehow reminds me of another exotic tree “sakura”.
The Magnolia tree caught my attention not only because of its beauty but also its link to the history of the Palace. During the 17th century, Henry Compton, then Bishop of London, was very interested in exotic plants and Magnolia was one of them. As he was interested in botanical history, he joined a group of Botanical enthusiasts. The Bishop himself brought the seeds from oversees to enrich the Botanical gardens at Fulham Palace.
The very first Magnolia virginiana tree in Europe was planted here at the Fulham Palace. Bishop Compton brought many exotic seeds from Virginia State and that is why the specimen is called Magnolia virginiana. We are reintroducing a Magnolia virginiana to Fulham Palace in March 2019.
As Bishop of London, Compton played an important role in the development of Botanical Gardens in England. Today, the Magnolia tree is more common and we can find it easily in many parks. Knowing a little of its historical background, makes us value this specimen and the Palace gardens even more. Fulham Palace’s botanical garden was and still is a very important space in London. Our unique plants set us aside from other gardens and continue the living tradition of the Bishop’s connection with botanical gardening.
Valerie Rozbitska, Learning Volunteer
Please send your ideas for Object / Specimen of the Month blogs to rachel.bagnall-bray@fulhampalace.org. If you would like some help, please let us know.