Several decades ago, camellias were planted in an area near the current location of the Larkins Learning Center. About three years ago, over 75 cultivars from this era were identified and tagged. With this foundation, the vision for the WinterGarden was born, and most of the installation, including plantings, irrigation, and benches, was completed in 2007. Designed by camellia expert and MBG board member Bobby Green of Green Nurseries, this garden also includes an entrance with decking that wraps around the Larkins Learning Center, and a gathering circle tucked into a hill adjacent to the Fern Glade which will be an excellent space for ceremonies, lectures, and presentations, as well as a place for peaceful reflection.
Kosaku Sawada pollinating camellia flowers.
In December of 2010, the WinterGarden was dedicated to pioneering local nurseryman Kosaku Sawada. Overlook Nursery, which he founded in 1914, is still in business today, and family-run by his grandson, George.
This one-acre site contains the older camellias plus approximately 500 new camellias, comprised of 350 new cultivars, which are planted along paths winding under tall trees. Upon completion, the WinterGarden will rival the Huntington and Descanso gardens in Southern California, internationally acclaimed for their spectacular collections.
This collection includes:
Historical Camellias
Those that originated or were introduced to the United States prior to 1920.
Mobile Area Originations
The greatest concentration of outstanding camellia introductions in the world originated along the central Gulf Coast, including rare rediscovered camellias.
Camellias Species
Nowhere else in the world can such a broad spectrum of camellias be grown as in our area. These will include rare, newly discovered Asian species, and hybrids thereof.
Camellia Classics
The very best of the best for garden purposes, regardless of age or origin.
All of these are integrated with collections of Hamamelis, Parrotia, Magnolia, Corylopsis, Viburnum and other trees and shrubs appropriate as companion plants.