Rare tree flowering230 is underway in West Sussex, as a remarkable botanical event unfolds at Borde Hill Garden. The Emmenopterys henryi, a rare species from China, is preparing to bloom for only the sixth time in nearly 100 years — a momentous occasion in the garden’s history.
Rare Tree Flowering230 – From Chinese Forests to English Soil
Colonel Stephenson R Clarke planted the tree in 1928. He grew it from seeds collected in a remote forest in southern China. The tree rarely flowers in Western climates. Famous plant explorer Ernest Henry Wilson once called it “one of the most strikingly beautiful trees” of China.
It took nearly a century before the tree bloomed for the first time in 2011. Now, it continues to amaze with its rare blossoms.
What Triggers a Rare Tree to Bloom? Climate and Heatwaves Explained
Experts at Borde Hill believe the flowering is triggered by early heatwaves this year. Climate changes are now influencing how and when plants bloom. This tree last flowered in 2021. Earlier bloom years include 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2018.
A garden spokesperson described this as a “rare and spectacular botanical event.” Each bloom is a rare gift from nature. Rare tree flowering230.
What Makes This Rare Flowering Tree So Unique?
This tree is known for its fragrant, creamy-white flowers and stunning spring growth. The young shoots are reddish-purple and mature into dark, glossy green leaves. Each flower is about 2.5 cm (0.9 inches) wide. The blooms are surrounded by large, white bracts, creating a striking visual display.
The fragrance and beauty of this flowering make it a highlight for plant lovers and visitors.
Borde Hill’s Botanical Identity
In 2023, the tree became the symbol of Borde Hill Garden. It inspired the garden’s new logo and rebranding. The Emmenopterys henryi now represents the garden’s rich botanical heritage.
This move shows the importance of the tree not just in science, but in the garden’s identity and public image.
Visitors Eagerly Await the Bloom
The rare tree is expected to bloom fully within the next two weeks. Visitors and staff at Borde Hill wait in excitement. For them, this event is a celebration of nature’s timing.
Andrewjohn Stephenson Clarke, the colonel’s great-grandson, said the changing climate has surprised them. “We wait years to see it,” he said, “but it’s worth it.”
A Symbol of Patience and Legacy
This tree is not just rare—it’s a living story. From its origins in Chinese forests to blooming in West Sussex, it reflects decades of care and change. It is also a reminder of how climate and human history shape the world of plants.
As it prepares to bloom again, the Emmenopterys henryi continues to inspire gardeners, scientists, and nature lovers alike.
