Courtesy Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

history continued

Today, Magnolia has one of the best collections of camellias in the country. The collection boasts acquisitions from all over the world as well as fifteen of this country’s earliest cultivars. These ancient plants include Oranda Ko (1724), Alba Superba (1840s), Marchioness of Exeter (1873), Gigantea (1840s), Alba Plena (1792), and Specioca (1824). Magnolia has been at the forefront of camellia cultivation, research, and now, restoration for nearly two centuries. To not only continue, but enhance this labor, Magnolia is currently working with local and national camellia organizations on a major restoration and mapping project in an effort to identify, preserve, and restore the ancient collection. As part of the reclamation project, professionals discovered a significant Camellia Japonica tree that was originally planted by Reverend John Drayton sometime in the mid to late 1800s. The tree was in serious decline when it was discovered, but had a trunk that measured fifteen inches in diameter and nearly forty eight inches in circumference. Significant work was undertaken to recover the tree, including the removal and treatment of a significant amount of decayed wood at the trunk fork. While age is a significant factor in the tree’s continued survival, the work has done a great deal to prolong the life of this “grand old lady.”

As it has for eleven generations, Magnolia Gardens continues to operate under the stewardship of the Drayton family, while the gardens remain its focal point. Its Board of Directors consists of John Drayton Hastie’s two children and five grandchildren who continue the family tradition.