Welcome to the Gardens

Welcome to the Gardens. . , Experiencing the Gardens , London Town is home to over 1,000 different kinds of plants nestled within 9 acres of woodland gardens, an acres of ornamental gardens, 2 bio-retention ponds, a bioswale, and a green roof. Connected by mulch, grass, and gravel paths, the landscape offers views of lush lawns, steep ravines, and winding garden beds. Curing staircases descended into the marshy dell and offer a closer look at a wetlands habitat by the South River., Botanical Features , Some of the highlights of London Town's living connections include azaleas, rhododendrons, magnolias, peonies, hollies, and viburnums. Camellias are particularly special to the gardens, as London Town was an original test site for cold-hardy camellia hybrids. Most camellias prefer a warmer climate than Maryland provides, but cold-hardy varieties not only survive in freezing conditions, they also bloom throughout the winter., Past and Present , Originally designed in the 1970s, the gardens focused on showcasing exotic, non-native, plant species, many of which remain today, including highly prized species like stachyurus (Stachyurus praecox) from the Himalayas and the ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba)from southern China. London Town is actively working to protect its unique botanical specimens for future generations through ex-situ conservation, a process by which plants are safeguarded in seed banks and cared for in living conditions., [Sidebar:] , 🦊 Our gardens are home to a variety of plants and wild animals. While exploring the gardens, some of the animals you might see are foxes (like me!), deer, squirrels, birds, and even box turtles. Remember to be respectful of the animals that live here and never try to touch them., Look closely - Try and spot some of our animal friends. You might even have to look down at your feet or up high in the trees to find them!