Exploring the Beauty of Doris Garden: A Delightful Journey through Seasons

Join us as Cherry Ong takes us on a journey to explore the enchanting Doris Page Winter Garden, located in the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific in Victoria, British Columbia.

Despite its name suggesting a focus on winter interest and blooms, this garden boasts beauty throughout the year. Cherry visited during the spring season and was captivated by its allure.

Nestled within the garden is a tranquil spot where one can sit, sheltered from the elements, and marvel at the surrounding beauty.

One of the garden’s highlights is the crevice garden, a type of rock garden that provides the perfect conditions for a diverse array of alpine plants.

Among the captivating sights, Cherry came across a cluster of small berries with a stunning color, but was unable to recall their name. If anyone knows the identity of this plant, please share it in the comments.

A striking contrast is displayed in a foliage planting featuring the radiant golden leaves of Angelina sedum (Sedum rupestre ‘Angelina’, Zones 5–8), which brilliantly stand out against the dark foliage of black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’, Zones 5–9).

Known by the common name of strawberry begonia, Saxifraga stolonifera (Zones 6–9) neither resembles a strawberry nor a begonia. However, its leaves, adorned with vibrant patterns, bear a resemblance to begonias, and it spreads through runners similar to strawberries. This delightful ground cover thrives in shade and can also be cultivated as a houseplant in regions where it is not hardy.

In spring, Solomon’s seal (Polygonatum odoratum, Zones 3–8) unfurls new leaves, accompanied by dangling buds that will soon blossom into delicate white flowers.

A leisurely walk amidst towering, mature rhododendrons (Rhododendron hybrids; hardiness varies by cultivar) offers a serene experience.

The unique checkered blooms of snake’s head fritillary (Fritillaria meleagris, Zones 3–8) add a touch of charm to the garden.

Adjacent to a piece of garden sculpture stands the equally artistic and captivating peeling bark of a paperbark maple (Acer griseum, Zones 4–8).

Not to be missed are the magnificent speckled blooms of Rhododendron ‘Princess Abkazi’.

We invite you to share glimpses of your own garden, a collection of beloved plants, or a memorable garden you’ve had the pleasure of visiting!