One of the nation’s oldest public gardens, Magnolia is renowned for its collection of azaleas, the Lowcountry’s starring flower come springtime. This year’s display may be especially spectacular, as the property’s in the midst of a glow-up: $125,000 worth of pruning and tree removal is allowing in more light and boosting all kinds of blooms as part of a major effort to elevate the historic attraction.
The Latest:
“This is a new era for Magnolia,” says director of horticulture and landscape Jim Martin. “Our mission is to become a garden internationally known for its year-round excellence.”
After all, he says, the 66 acres of romantic-style gardens are in bloom through every season, and the horticulture team is enhancing newer parts of the property with big displays of color—combinations of tropicals, perennials, annuals, and grasses designed to inspire. “Magnolia should be about showcasing the best in horticulture today, too,” says Martin, who is adding classes, workshops, and plant sales to the calendar.
A new app debuted last summer, complete with a GPS-enabled map. Now, visitors can easily navigate the expansive site and head out on self-guided tours, such as a camellia deep-dive that launched last winter.
Behind the scenes, Magnolia just initiated a formal accessioning system. “Botanical gardens use these museum-based systems to document every plant in their collection,” explains Martin. It’s a monumental task, but one that will record the stories of this rare garden in perpetuity.
The Backstory:
The Reverend John Grimké Drayton began designing gardens around his Ashley River-front home in the early 1840s. During his travels in Europe, he’d admired the “romantic” style that sought to cooperate with nature rather than control it. Plants were allowed to take on their natural shapes, while paths curved gently past serene water views.
Relying upon the labor of enslaved Africans and African Americans, Drayton filled the landscape with azaleas—possibly the first ones grown in an American garden—as well as camellias.
After the Civil War, the family opened the gardens to the public. By 1900, Baedeker’s Guide to the United States had listed Magnolia among the top three places to see in the country, alongside Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon.
Plan a Visit:
In the historic gardens, miles of paths and trails lead through a changing landscape that is highlighted by thousands upon thousands of azaleas and camellias (which flower from October through March).
Stroll along the river, with its moss-draped oaks, and take the Long White Bridge across a blackwater pond where blooming irises gather around the knees of cypress trees. Finish with an alfresco snack or glass of wine from the Peacock Café.
If you’ve visited Magnolia in the past, know that as of January, general admission includes a lot more. Guests can hop on and off the Nature Train, bird-watch in the scenic Audubon Swamp Garden, and learn about the property’s difficult history through tours such as “From Slavery to Freedom.” Visitors also receive a ticket to use for a second time before the end of the year—a big boon for locals.
While the aged children’s garden has closed, the Wildlife Center is still a draw for kids. It hosts indigenous species, such as the red fox, as well as miniature horses, pigs, peacocks, and more alongside a small reptile house.
Upcoming Events:
May 3
Audubon Swamp Sip & Stroll
Adults 21 and up can head out on an after-hours roam through the swamp named for John Grimké Drayton’s pal, John James Audubon. A boardwalk leads through the former rice impoundments that now serve as a refuge for the likes of alligators, otters, bobcats, waterfowl, and birds of prey. Guests receive two beverages and charcuterie. Friday, 5-8 p.m. $55.
May 12
Mother’s Day Special
Magnolia is treating moms to complimentary admission, and stay tuned, as celebratory treats may be available for purchase as well. Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Prices vary.
June 22
Juneteenth Freedom Day
In partnership with the Slave Dwelling Project, Magnolia is hosting a full day of happenings recognizing Juneteenth and the emancipation of those who were once enslaved. Learn from seminars and demonstrations and enjoy a special performance. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free with admission.
The Details:
Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
3550 Ashley River Rd.
Open daily, 9 a.m. -5 p.m.
$35; $32 senior/military; $21 ages six-12; $3 ages five & under; to include the house tour, add $12 per ticket and $4 ages five & under
(843) 571-1266
magnoliaplantation.com
