Parterre

A parterre is a formal ornamental flower garden whose beds and paths are designed to form a pattern

Photo by Lisa Romerein.

Parterre

A parterre is a formal ornamental flower garden whose beds and paths are designed to form a pattern. The Gavit family commissioned Lotusland’s Parterre in the late 1920s, creating traditional planting beds and brick walkways, changing levels, and two central water features. Madame Ganna Walska later added her own touch, including whimsical pebble mosaics. The Parterre is quite distinct from many of our winding paths and asymmetrical gardens; it is an Italian-style garden with Spanish and Moorish elements, arranged with multiple axes.

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Noteworthy

Features

Floribunda Roses

Lotusland’s floribunda roses reflect Western ideals of the 20 and 21st centuries. They bloom multiple times a season, provide an abundance of blooms, and yet are forgiving for even the beginning gardener. Lotusland’s Rose Garden comes to life in the summer with masses of yellow ‘Julia Child’, orange ‘Livin’ Easy’ and red ‘Hot Cocoa’ roses.

Moorish Star Fountain

The eight-ray Moorish star on this fountain is a symbol found in Islamic iconography, as well as Moorish and Spanish architecture. The small channel bringing water into the garden leads one toward the Horticultural Clock in the Topiary Garden.

Neptune Fountain

This fountain with decorative Spanish tiles features a sculpture of Neptune, Roman god of the seas. Behind Neptune, two mermen stand watch.

Pebble Mosaics

In 1969, artist and gardener Jim Minah created the pebble mosaic designs based on Madame Ganna Walska’s request for “lots of movement, but enclosed.”

Notable Species

Rosa ‘Julia Child’, R. ‘Hot Cocoa’, R. ‘Livin’ Easy’, Lagunaria patersonia (cow itch tree), Juniperus chinensis ‘Kaizuka’ (variegated Hollywood juniper), Rosmarinus officinalis ‘Lockwood de Forest’ (prostrate rosemary)