Leeds Castle has a strong and enchanting connection with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), showcasing their shared passion for horticulture and gardening. From the renowned ‘Nepeta ‘Leeds Castle’ to the castle’s support for RHS campaigns, this historic landmark has firmly established itself as a hub for horticultural excellence.
Nepeta ‘Leeds Castle’: A Captivating Catmint Cultivar
One of the most notable connections between Leeds Castle and the RHS is the ‘Nepeta ‘Leeds Castle’, a type of catmint that has been officially recognized by the RHS. This bushy perennial features aromatic, grey-green leaves and pale lilac flowers, making it a popular choice for various garden types, including coastal, gravel, and wildlife gardens. The RHS has highlighted the cultivar’s suitability for these diverse garden settings, showcasing the versatility and charm of this Leeds Castle-inspired plant.
Leeds Castle: An RHS Partner Garden
While Leeds Castle is not explicitly listed as an RHS Partner Garden, the castle has collaborated with the RHS on various initiatives. Partner Gardens offer free entry to RHS members at selected times, providing them with the opportunity to explore the stunning grounds and gardens of these prestigious locations. The partnership between Leeds Castle and the RHS demonstrates their shared commitment to promoting horticulture and offering visitors a truly exceptional garden experience.
Supporting RHS Campaigns: Celebrating the Beauty of Gardens
Leeds Castle actively supports RHS campaigns, such as the ‘My Chelsea Garden’ initiative, which encourages people to share positive images of flowers and gardens on social media. By participating in these campaigns, Leeds Castle not only showcases the beauty of its own gardens but also contributes to the RHS’s efforts to inspire and engage gardening enthusiasts worldwide.
RHS Show Success: Floral Artistry at Leeds Castle
The connection between Leeds Castle and the RHS extends beyond their collaborative efforts. The castle’s Head Florist, Louise Roots, has achieved remarkable success at RHS shows, winning a Gold RHS award at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show for her impressive floral design. This design was inspired by the stunning gardens and landscapes of Leeds Castle, further solidifying the castle’s reputation as a hub of horticultural excellence.
Royal Visit: Highlighting the Significance of Leeds Castle
In 2022, Leeds Castle hosted a royal visit from HRH Princess Alexandra, the Patron of the castle. This visit not only highlighted the castle’s significance but also underscored its strong connections to the royal family and the RHS. As the Patron, Princess Alexandra’s presence at Leeds Castle reinforces the castle’s status as a prestigious and historically significant landmark, with deep-rooted ties to the horticultural community.
Conclusion
The enchanting connection between Leeds Castle and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is a testament to their shared passion for horticulture and gardening. From the renowned ‘Nepeta ‘Leeds Castle’ to the castle’s support for RHS campaigns and its success at RHS shows, Leeds Castle has firmly established itself as a hub of horticultural excellence. The royal visit from HRH Princess Alexandra further emphasizes the castle’s significance and its enduring relationship with the RHS. This captivating partnership continues to inspire and delight visitors, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
References:
1. Leeds Castle. (2022). Royal Visit from Patron HRH Princess Alexandra. Retrieved from https://leeds-castle.com/news/royal-visit-2022/
2. RHS. (n.d.). Nepeta ‘Leeds Castle’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/179401/nepeta-leeds-castle/details
3. RHS. (n.d.). Find a Partner Garden. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/partner-gardens/find-a-partner-garden
4. Leeds Castle. (2017). Gold for Leeds Castle Florist at RHS Show. Retrieved from https://leeds-castle.com/news/gold-for-leeds-castle-florist-at-rhs-hampton-court-palace-flower-show/
5. Leeds Castle. (n.d.). Leeds Castle supports the RHS ‘My Chelsea Garden’ Campaign. Retrieved from https://leeds-castle.com/news/leeds-castle-supports-the-rhs-my-chelsea-garden-campaign/.