on the alpine screes. Citrus ichangensis, a hardy species of lemon tree. Illicium mexicanum, the large, red flowers of this Mexican native are a rare sight in this country. Paulownia kawakamii tree is known as the Sapphire dragon tree. The violet flowers open in May and are enormous. It is classified as critically endangered. Three specimens of the fossil tree: Wollemia nobilis, one having flowered in 2010/11 for the first time. Quercus monimotricha a dwarf oak from China Plant Trials Sir Harold Hillier Gardens started a hypericum trial in 2014. This three year trial was in association with the Royal Horticultural Society and led by curator David Jewell. The aim of the trial was to establish garden worthiness, resolve any naming problems and assess their medicinal properties. The trial included approximately 65 different types of plants. The hypericum lancasteri, grown at the Gardens, is named in honour of patron Roy Lancaster. These trial grounds can be visited in the Gardens and are located behind Jermyn's House. Conservation Besides growing many plants rare in cultivation, the Gardens grow over 200 threatened plant species and participates in a variety of conservation programmes, including collaboration on biodiversity projects on a local, national and international level. At a press day in 1964, a journalist asked Sir Harold what he thought of the fledgling garden plant conservation movement. “I shall tell you what I think,” he replied. “Whilst other people are talking about it I am doing it, I am planting, planting, planting and I would urge others to do the same.” Gardens A variety of landscapes have been designed for seasonal interest all year round. Acer Valley - A valley of Japanese and other maples and shaded by mature oaks. Bog Garden - Here bamboos are mixed with bold herbaceous perennials such as the enormous gunnera manicata Centenary Border - originally planted in 1964 by Sir Harold Hillier to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Winchester nursery by his grandfather. It was planted with alternating 22 yard bays, to reflect Sir Harold's interest in cricket. It was decided in 2010 to develop a more suitable border and infrastructure to open up the border all year round. The Centenary Border is now the longest double mixed border in the country and was officially opened by the Duchess of Cornwall in 2013. Children's Education Garden - created for the education programmes provided by