A tranquil corner of the gardens
A rich habitat for a variety of wildlife, the Stumpery is an atmospheric garden that draws inspiration from the Victorian concept of growing ferns amongst upturned tree stumps. An enchanting space that highlights the sculptural qualities of wood, the Stumpery features a series of remarkable natural structures, including two classical temples crafted from green oak and cut to resemble stone, at the base of which sits David Wynne’s sculpture of the Goddess of the Wood.
To the southern edge of the Stumpery lies the ‘Wall of Gifts’, an eye-catching display of architectural stone, including pieces collected by the Prince, as well as donations crafted by students from the Prince’s Foundation for Building Community.
Other features that enhance the natural landscape include a bronze relief of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother and an unusual stone-built water feature crowned with a canopy of Gunnera, which in recent years has been a favourite nesting spot for wild ducks.
The water feature close to the Stumpery is made of Hereford sandstone and Spanish holey limestone. It contains four Pacific Ocean clamshells from Edward VII’s garden, Sandringham.
Gunnera manicata looks magnificent atop the two-metre-high stone tower.
In high Summer, the Stumpery transforms as the vegetation fills out, creating a lush carpet.
The Wall of Gifts is a stunning collection of pieces given to The Prince.
THE SALE OF HIGHGROVE PRODUCTS, GARDEN TOURS AND EVENTS SUPPORT AND ENABLE THE LIFE AND WORK OF THE PRINCE’S FOUNDATION.