Travel Stories: Le Jardin Plume, France Tour 2019
Of all of the gardens we visited during the France tour that I led, Le Jardin Plume was truly one of our favorites. I first learned of this unique Normandy garden while watching “The Gardens of France” which were produced and hosted by British gardening personality Monty Don. I knew it will be well worth our time!
This garden was designed around a former orchard and pasture. Owners Patrick and Sylvie Quibel moved here in 1996.
I chose this garden because it is a delightful contrast between formality with informality. The Quibels named it Le Jardin Plume (the Feather Garden) in response to the way the plants moved in the garden.
The garden has different areas to explore:
The orchard garden is filled with fruit trees incorporated into a parterre (ornamental garden with paths between the beds). The feather garden features ornamental grasses and perennials. Another area is the boxwood balls, which provide yet another contrast to the hedges. And there’s a flower garden planted with a wild mix of flowers, with many rambling over the beds.
I found that the clipped boxwood hedges add formality to the garden while the plantings of perennials, annuals and ornamental grasses provided a more informal, down-to-earth appearance. There is a striking contrast between the hedges and the plants that grow with great abandon. The brightly-colored flowers in reds, oranges and purples are absolutely delightful.
There is also a plant nursery at Le Jardin Plume with many tempting offerings. But, as you know, we couldn’t bring any plants home. I hope you’ll enjoy these photos. Remember that you can view much larger images by clicking on any of the photos.
Above left: owner Sylie Quibel talks with our tour escort, Michael Smith.
Above left: Patric Quibel walks through the nursery area of Le Jardin Plume.
Above left: Isn’t this the coolest poppy ever? I don’t know the cultivar name, though. Above right: This is Briza maxima, commonly known as rattlesnake grass or big quaking grass.