Kentish Express Ashford & District - What's On
Shrub to die for
The world’s deadliest shrub will be on show at Lullingstone Castle. Dendrocnide moroides, better known as the Deadly Stinger, will be on display at the estate near Swanley in a glass cabinet. Native to Queensland, Australia, the hairs on the innocent looking plant inject a lethal poison to anyone who touches it. It is usually housed in a locked greenhouse, and is the only example to be found in the UK. Visitors can also view many other rare and endangered plants in the castle’s World Garden, laid out in the shape of a map of the world. Information will be provided by its creator, modern day plant hunter Tom Hart Dyke, who lives at the castle and will be giving tours throughout the day. The Manor House, which dates back to 1497 and has been in the Hart Dyke’s ownership for 20 generations, will also be open for tours where visitors will be able to see some of the ancient furnishings including a bed Queen Anne slept in during a visit to the castle. The event has been organised in support of cultivated plant conservation charity Plant Heritage, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary. It runs from 11am to 5pm on Sunday, June 23. Tickets are £7 for adults, £4 for children and £18 for a family. Call 01322 862114.