Beautification
Garden of the Month
1406 Sereno
This garden is a masterful blending of both English and French influences. Four organically shaped flowerbeds follow the brick walkway to the home's entrance. Each bed focuses on different plants; however, the common thread is the intentionally precise placement of the plants. Hydrangeas are included in several areas and have a connection to France. French Hydrangea (aka Bigleaf) is cultivated in France where pink is the dominate color. It symbolizes a "cheerful woman."
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A second area has a mass planting of ferns in the foreground while azaleas complete the background. Azaleas are typically deciduous with funnel-shaped flowers. At the height of their blooming in the spring, they are a show-stopper. Interestingly, Fifise Langlois, a French horticulturalist, brought three colors of azaleas from his hometown of Toulouse, France to Mobile, Alabama in the mid-1700's. Would he have ever guessed that now these plants are prominent throughout the southern United States and are often used as a backdrop for Easter family photos?
Azaleas are included in another bed along with hostas and a Dogwood tree taking center stage. This tree is known for its showy bracts (modified leaves that look like petals) in early spring. It takes little imagination to understand how the intersection of all these blooming plants provide a beautiful harbinger to our spring season.
Not to be overlooked and in the lawn area is a gigantic Wisteria. Wisteria, aka "glycine" in French, is a popular climbing vine that thrives in France, particularly Paris. Neighbors in CLE have seen these vines bloom in our gardens and can appreciate their beauty.
Potted plants abundantly overflowing with flowers and vines are reminiscent of both English and French gardens. Eight planters span the Robinson's entrance and bestow a variety of plants and that cascade with color.
In England, window boxes are a beloved feature that goes back to early 19th century with the rise of the middle class and production of pottery. Here, the second story window box burst with vibrant color and follows the English tradition with plants spilling over the edges.
The Robinsons would like to express their appreciation to From the Ground Up Landscape who helped bring their vision to life. Thank you for making Casa Linda Estates beautiful...one garden at a time.