The mornings may still be chilly at Pukeiti, but warmer days and more sun are bringing the first real sense of spring. Recent weeks have seen the garden bathed in sunlight, with the team busy pruning and planting in preparation for the season ahead.
Rhododendron protistum ‘Pukeiti’ on the Valley of the Giants loop track
The big-leaf rhododendrons are now in the midst of their spectacular display along the Valley of the Giants Loop. Rhododendron protistum var. giganteum is the first to flower, followed by Rhododendron protistum ‘Pukeiti’ and the creamy-yellow R. macabeanum. Be sure to catch these impressive blooms in the coming weeks before their season ends.
Elsewhere, glowing red Rhododendron arboreum brighten the garden from late winter, joined by Magnolia campbellii overhead and azaleas lining the paths. Hellebores are in flower throughout the grounds, with trilliums, Spanish bluebells, and other spring bulbs soon to follow. Camellia japonica and C. reticulata are also at their best right now, while the Vireya Walk bursts with vibrant colour to greet visitors at the entrance.
Spring is always a breathtaking time at Pukeiti, make sure you plan a visit to experience the garden at its finest.