Spring-Blooming Camellias & Their Companions –

at Hedgleigh Spring with Charles Cresson 

Noted garden educator and writer Charles Cresson will guide us through his private garden, Hedgleigh Spring, to learn about the best hardy camellias for our region and companion plantings for them – daffodils, tulips, minor bulbs, spring ephemerals, and such shrubs as quince and early spireas. Charles has been growing camellias for over 50 years and trialing the newer hardy hybrids for nearly 40 years. His collection of rare plants includes many bulbs, perennials, and other shrubs that will also be in peak bloom. A comprehensive camellia handout will be emailed to participants.

Charles Cresson gardens at Hedgleigh Spring in Swarthmore, PA, a garden that has been lovingly maintained in his family for four generations and is now cared for by one of the country’s leading horticulturists. The garden has been featured in magazines and publications as well as in television programming, notably Monty Don's American Gardens. Charles studied and worked in both the US and Europe, including the Royal Horticultural Society. He is an avid gardener and a professional horticulturist, author, lecturer, and consultant.

Charles is the award-winning author of three books: Charles Cresson on the American Flower Garden, Ornamental Trees, and Rock Gardening. In 2001, Charles was awarded the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society’s Certificate of Merit. And at the HPS/MAG Annual Meeting in December 2023, Charles was honored as the first recipient of the “Jim Bobb Memorial Award,” an award created to recognize members whose outstanding contributions and long-term service have significantly enriched and expanded HPS/MAG.

This is a Members Only event. Registration is required. The cost is $20 per person. Only guests who are on the same membership as the registrant are permitted to attend. The visit is limited to 15 participants. This tour is also being offered on Thursday, April17th. There will be a waitlist if needed.

Registration will open March 4^th. Registration closes April 13^th. Click here if you would like to become a member of HPS/MAG before registering for this event.

Rain dates: Tuesday, April 22^nd and Wednesday, April 23^rd.

Please wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. If raining lightly, please bring an umbrella. The property is very level and easily navigated.

Address and parking directions will be sent to all registrants in their confirmation email.

Contact: Laura Axel at [email protected]