Fernery
A fernery is a specialized garden for the cultivation and display of ferns.
In many countries, ferneries are indoors or at least sheltered or kept in a
In 1855, parts of England were gripped by 'pteridomania' (the fern craze). This term was coined by Charles Kingsley, clergyman, naturalist (and later author of The Water Babies). It involved both British and exotic varieties being collected and displayed; many associated structures were constructed and paraphernalia was used to maintain the collections.[1]
In 1859, the Fernery at
In 1874, the fernery in Benmore Botanic Garden (part of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh) was built by James Duncan (a plant collector and sugar refiner). This was a large and expensive project since the fernery was based in a heated conservatory. In 1992, it was listed Historic Scotland for its architectural and botanical value and has been described by the Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland as "extremely rare and unique in its design".[4]
In 1903, Hever Castle in Kent was acquired and restored by the American millionaire William Waldorf Astor who used it as a family residence. He added the Italian Garden (including a fernery) to display his collection of statuary and ornaments.[5]
References
- ^ Gibby, Mary (2013). "The Benmore Fernery". www.buildingconservation.com. Retrieved 4 January 2014.
- ISBN 1-84306-124-4.
- ISBN 0711710325.
- ^ "The Fernery". rbge.org.uk. 11 November 2013. Retrieved 4 January 2014.
- ISBN 1870673298.