Take a colorful walk with Magnolia’s camellia expert

October 31, 2012

Begining Thursday, Nov. 1

CHARLESTON, SC –  Day Dream, White Doves and Sparkling Burgundy are some of the early camellia varieties that brighten walks along the garden paths at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.   

Follow Magnolia’s camellia expert Tom Johnson on daily 45-minute walks at 11 a.m. Monday through Saturday and 1:30 p.m. on Sundays. The walks, limited to groups of up to 25 people, are an added feature to Magnolia’s daily schedule until mid-March. Reservations are required. Call the ticket booth in advance to reserve a time. The walks will begin Thursday, Nov. 1

Magnolia’s ancient camellias, first imported by the Rev. John Grimké Drayton in the 1840s from France and Belgium, are producing a colorful display of pinks, purples, reds and white.    

The gardens have been expanded since Johnson led his first camellia walk five years ago. Since then, Johnson has led a restoration of America’s oldest public garden. During the walks, Johnson will discuss the expansion of the gardens and future plans to return more pre-1900 camellia varieties to Magnolia.    

As the winter turns colder, the Duke of Wellington, General Washington and Julia Drayton are among the other varieties that will make a showing throughout the gardens.    

For more information, call 843-571-1266.