PLANT OF THE WEEK

which light up the gardens with a colourful, late spring display. Accompanied by laburnum, philadelphus and weigelia, these are the perfect backdrop to the herbaceous perennials growing in the mixed borders of the Flower Garden.

Plant hunter David Douglas was born in Scone, and a specimen of his most famous introduction, the Douglas fir, which was grown from seed collected by him, stands proudly in the grounds. A pavilion celebrating his work is also the start to the Douglas Trail.

At the furthest point of the grounds is one of the finest collections of conifers growing in the Victorian Pinetum. Dawn redwoods, giant redwoods, cedars and grand firs stand majestically, while new plantings include the recently discovered Wollemi pine.

At the end of a day exploring the grounds, visitors can visit the Palace coffee shop and sample home-cooked fare made from produce grown in the kitchen garden.

Website: www.scone-palace.co.uk Telephone: 01738 552300

Opening times: October open daily 10am-4pm. Winter open: November-March Friday-Sunday 10am-4pm (excluding December 29 and 30) Admission costs: October: Adults 7.50, concessions £6.50, children £5.50, families £25. Winter admission is free

Garden of the Week is in association with Discover Scottish Gardens. For more information, advice and day-out ideas, visit discoverscottishgardens.org