Embrace the natural beauty of The Arderne Gardens
Nature is an exquisite thing. It has the power to captivate, inspire and evoke joy in almost everyone. The Arderne Gardens in the sophisticated suburb of Claremont is a place that is certainly worthy of high praise.
The history of The Arderne Gardens
Established in 1845 by Ralph Henry Arderne, the timber merchant and cabinet maker took a liking to Cape Town and built a house behind Table Mountain known as The Hill. At The Hill, Ralph began collecting plants from all over the world for his garden. He also contributed to the founding of the Cape Town Botanical Gardens, which was greatly appreciated by the locals and all who visited Cape Town. When Ralph passed away in 1914, The Hill was demolished and plots of land were sold. However, the gardens would have been a shame to lose and were saved by the director of parks and gardens in Cape Town. Mr. A. W van den Houten persuaded City Council to purchase the most significant part of the garden and the rest is history.
Much effort, care and consideration by the earliest caretakers of the garden have resulted in the beauty that is The Arderne Gardens today. MR. A. M. J Scheltens was the curator of the gardens for 27 years until renowned horticulturist Richard Jamieson implemented changes and developed a plan of growth for the gardens. He planted new trees, and masses of hydrangeas, and created the Great Lawn and the two ponds. The water in the ponds flows from a natural spring that travels through to the Black River. This resulted in The Arderne Gardens having a great new appeal In 2004 The Arderne Gardens
A hallmark of South African nature
The Arderne Gardens has been recognised as one of the country's most valuable, unique collections of trees and plants. It is now home to one of the largest trees in South Africa, the Moreton Bay Fig commonly known as the Wedding Tree. It may be the biggest Aleppo Pine in the world and has won the prestigious title of Champion Trees along with four others in 2008.
The Arderne Gardens has been named a South African Provincial Heritage Site. It spans 5 hectares of well-manicured lawns and boasts over 400 trees. The city of Cape Town does a fantastic job maintaining the gardens and the location has become a focal point for the area of Claremont. Volunteers who are passionate about nature and want to lend a helping hand towards the upkeep of The Arderne Gardens can join the public organisation group called Friends of The Arderne Gardens (FOTAG). Since entrance to the gardens is free, visitors are encouraged to donate to FOTAG via the donation box placed at the front gate. All the funds are used towards supporting the volunteer efforts in the general maintenance of the gardens. This is a wonderful opportunity to add your value to the community effort of preserving The Arderne Gardens for future generations to enjoy.
The Arderne Gardens is home to numerous champion trees. With a handy, detailed map of the trees, you can spot them all and take shade under their sprawling branches. FOTAG plans to continue planting as many trees as the garden can hold, ensuring the well-being of the environment and the lifespan of this location as a refuge for all nature lovers.
Keep up with the garden
Social media is a great tool to stay afloat on the latest trends and happenings in the world and in your backyard. The Arderne Gardens social pages regularly post updates on Facebook and Instagram. Give them a follow so you can view beautiful images and stay up-to-date with new developments in the garden. Contact us today to find out how you can live in Claremont.
07 Aug 2023
Author Seeff Property Group