By Cassidy Smith
Marketing & PR Manager

The Blooming History of Our Azaleas

Nestled in the heart of the Deep South, the gardens of Bellingrath are a tapestry of color and fragrance that tell a story as rich as the soil in which their roots are firmly planted. Our azaleas are not just plants; they are the living history of the estate, a story that began with Walter and Bessie Bellingrath’s vision to create a haven of beauty and serenity. Let us take a stroll down the garden paths and explore the vibrant tapestry of azaleas that has captivated visitors for centuries. 

A Legacy Blooms

It all began in the 18th century when Fifise Langlois, filled with nostalgia for his native Toulouse, France, brought azaleas to Mobile, etching their radiant hues into the very fabric of the city’s heritage. These azaleas quickly became a local spectacle, drawing admiration from the French, English, and Spanish who, at different times, called Mobile their own.

Walter Bellingrath, whose vision sculpted the Gardens, was known for his fondness for camellias. Yet, in his writings, he painted a vivid picture of the azaleas’ grandeur, describing ancient shrubs that grew to monumental sizes, almost resembling trees, with a display of blossoms so full that not a single leaf remained visible.

“The Flaming Drama of the South”

Bellingrath Gardens & Home is renowned for its collection of Southern Indian Hybrids, also known as Indica Azaleas, best suited for the warmth of zones 8 and 9. These hybrids trace their roots back to the 19th century, cultivated initially in Charleston’s Magnolia Gardens and later popularized by P.J. Berckman’s nursery in Georgia.

The Dazzling Varieties

Bellingrath Gardens is home to over 250,000 azaleas, including both native and hybrid varieties. Visitors to Bellingrath can expect to encounter an array of Azaleas, including:

• ‘Formosa’: A spectacle of magenta purple.
• ‘Pride of Mobile’: A deep pink delight.
• ‘George Lindley Tabor’: Elegant white with a hint of pink at its heart.
• ‘Mrs. G.G. Gerbing’: A pure white wonder.

These varieties, known for their potential to grow exceptionally tall, contribute to the grandeur that Bellingrath Gardens is celebrated for.

‘George Lindley Tabor’


‘Pride of Mobile’


‘Formosa’


‘Mrs G.G. Gerbing’

Pruning with Purpose

The philosophy of azalea care at Bellingrath is one of gentle guidance rather than strict control. Inspired by the wisdom of regional gardening experts, the gardens embrace a more naturalistic approach. Pruning is done sensitively, with the aim of rejuvenating the azaleas, especially when they’ve been affected by environmental factors such as hurricanes.

When to Witness the Azalea Spectacular

Timing is everything when it comes to azalea blooms. Typically, the best times to visit our blushing beauties are during the peak blooming months from late February to late March, but Mother Nature has the final say. During this magical interval, the gardens are a living canvas, with each azalea variety taking its turn to shine.

• Early Bloomers: Catch the first act in late February, as the early bloomers set the stage with their delicate hues.
• Full Chorus: By mid-March, the gardens reach a crescendo of color, with every azalea variety in full splendor.
• Last Encore: Don’t miss the final performance in early April, as the late bloomers offer a poignant adieu to the season.

Keep an eye on our bloom updates to plan your perfect visit.

Spring Blooms Beyond the Azalea Trail

While our azaleas are the belles of the ball, Bellingrath’s springtime splendor doesn’t end there. The gardens are a mosaic of spring blooms that complement the azalea showcase:

• Camellias: Our winter beauties often overlap with the early azaleas, offering a seamless transition of blooms.
• Tulips: The gardens have come alive with vibrant tulips in late February. 
• Hydrangeas: These lush flowers pick up where the azaleas leave off, continuing the color parade into summer.

Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist or simply a lover of natural beauty, Bellingrath’s gardens are a feast for the senses. Come wander our paths, breathe in the fragrant air, and let the story of our azaleas become a part of your own.

Let this spring be the one where you immerse yourself in the living legacy of Bellingrath’s azaleas. Plan your visit, engage with nature, and let the timeless beauty of our gardens inspire you. #BellingrathBlooms await!

Connect with Us

Join the #BellingrathBlooms conversation online and share your moments of beauty:

• Follow us on Instagram and tag your photos with #BellingrathBlooms to be featured on our page.
• Like our Facebook page to stay updated on events and share your garden stories.
• Follow our Twitter for blooming updates and garden musings.
• Plan your visit 

By Todd Lasseigne
Executive Director

The Grotto: A Landmark Restored

One of the most iconic scenes at Bellingrath is the Grotto that overlooks the Fowl River. Designed by George Rogers and constructed in 1931, the Grotto has served for decades as the backdrop for many family photos.

The Challenge Emerges

When I arrived in 2020, it appeared in good working condition, and the plantings (albeit simple) at its base were colorful. By 2022, however, it became apparent that we had a problem with water leaking out of it, as the planting bed became marshy to the point that nothing would grow there. Several attempts were made to find the source of the water, but to no avail.  As problems tend to do, one led to another, and we determined that a large live oak (succumbing to heart rot and chestnut blight) might have cracked the stone runnel above, causing water to leak through and flow downhill to the Grotto. By summer 2023, the oak was removed, and repairs on the pathway were underway. Stubborn as it is, the water leak persisted, however.

Uncovering History

Finally, in January 2024, we were able to determine that the water “leak” was actually a natural seepage. Upon digging underneath parts of the stone walkway uphill from the Grotto, we discovered a French drain installed decades ago. This drain was attached to a water bypass that was designed as part of the original structure back in the 1920s! The bypass had become clogged with sediment, and thus the water was flowing downhill and coming out below the Grotto, creating the swampy conditions. The bypass was cleaned, a new French drain attached and installed, and voila, problem solved! (Now, we will soon move on to the Rockery, where another newly discovered water leak is awaiting our attention. Stay tuned.)

A New Chapter in Horticulture

A second tale or project relates to a new initiative that was just undertaken (on February 25) to start a program to add Alabama native plants to the gardens. Based on field expertise by our new Director of Horticulture, Jeremy Schmidt, Bellingrath received permission from the state botanist of Alabama to collect plants of Trillium, a genus of woodland perennial plants, from state-owned property in central Alabama. Although wildflower enthusiasts, some horticulturists, and many botanists know of Trillium, few may be aware that the southeastern U.S. has been a hotbed of activity in discovering new species, and Alabama is part of the epicenter of this activity!

A Partnership for Preservation

Together with Hayes Jackson, Alabama Cooperative Extension Service Regional Agent for Calhoun County, Jeremy, Susan Hill, Sarah Brecher, and I were greeted by Dr. Wayne Barger at a site near Tallassee, Alabama, and under his guidance, we were able to collect plants responsibly for use at Bellingrath. Between this newfound partnership and Jeremy’s expertise in crevice gardens, we feel that our newfound start into select native plants will add beauty, vibrancy, and relevance to Bellingrath’s horticulture program. I also feel that this type of horticultural activity speaks to the passions and interest of our founders who sought to enhance beauty through the use of the native landscape at “Belle Camp,” supplemented with ornamental jewels from afar.

Visit and Connect with Us

Join the conversation and share your memories of Bellingrath on social media using #BellingrathGardens.

• Follow us on Instagram
• Like our Facebook page
• Plan your visit 

By Cory Sparks
Director of Development

Last week, Barbara Smith, our Display Horticulture Gardener, and I were walking into the Admissions Building when she pointed to the bed of tulips in front. “I saw this design with daisies when I was traveling in England. There was a beautiful bed in Chelsea that was planted like this.” Staring at the bed for a moment, she said, “You may have been wondering about the yellow tulips in all of this pink. They were a surprise! Not the color I was expecting.”

As we were talking, some visitors from Michigan walked past, and we explained a bit about the planting. The story reminded one of the women of her tulip tour of the Netherlands when she went to the famed Keukenhof garden. Within seconds, we had connected gardens in three countries and two states, giving me a deeper understanding of the beauty I get to experience each workday at Bellingrath.

A tour of English gardens inspired the Bellingraths to create these Gardens. Barbara, Jeremy Schmidt, our Director of Horticulture, and our other gardeners continue to search the globe for designs and plants that might add to the beauty of the grounds. Sometimes, the plants are Alabama-grown. In his column for this issue, Todd Lasseigne talks about a trip he and members of our horticulture staff recently took to collect homegrown trillium to plant at Bellingrath.

Our gardens serve as a living, ever-evolving memorial to Mrs. Bellingrath, and they’re world-class, as shown by being named one of twelve ‘Gardens of the World Worth Travelling For in 2024’. We’re eager to share the gardens and our love of gardening with our members and the public. As part of this work, we’re exploring the idea of launching garden tours – opportunities to learn about our plants and the design and planting process. I’m confident Mr. and Mrs. Bellingrath would enjoy the tour. Would you? Let me know!

Visit and Connect with Us

• Check out our upcoming Spring Plant Sale to awaken your garden!
• Share your thoughts on this new venture with us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter using the hashtag #BellingrathGardens. 

By Tom McGehee
Museum Home Director

In 1820 King George IV asked his silversmiths in Birmingham, England to create a device to make the service of wine at his dinners more efficient.  The solution was the Wine Trolley, a device allowing two bottles of wine to be passed straight down the table top rather than waiting on a servant with a single bottle in hand.

The Wine Trolley was created using two coasters.  The original purpose of these was to hold a single bottle of wine or port and prevent the contents from spilling on the tablecloth.  They were also dubbed “sliders” as their bases were covered with felt making them easy to slide down a polished wooden surface.  George Washington asked the Marquis de Lafayette to obtain “eight sliders” for him in France.

In the Bellingrath Collection is a Wine Trolley on four wheels with a handle to pull it down the table.  Its design incorporates a favorite device for wine-related objects: grapes and grape leaves.  It bears the makers mark for Elkington and Company of Birmingham and has the date mark for 1863.

The Wine Trolley joins a number of silver wine related objects on display on the first floor of the Bellingrath Home which includes decanter stands, wine coolers and a pair of coasters.

Visit and Connect with Us

• Tour the Bellingrath Home
• Learn more about our collections
• Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for the latest updates.
• Share your experience with #BellingrathHistory

By Cassidy Smith, Marketing and PR Manager

As Valentine’s Day approaches, love is undoubtedly in the air. What better way to celebrate the month of love than by exploring the enchanting beauty of Bellingrath Gardens & Home? Nestled in the heart of nature, Bellingrath offers couples a magical escape to a world where flowers bloom with passion and historic charm complements the romance of the season. Here are six date ideas that you and your loved one will adore at Bellingrath Gardens & Home.

1. Take a Class Together

Whether you’re planning a unique couple’s activity, seeking a fun day out with friends, or embarking on a solo adventure, our array of hands-on workshops offers something for everyone. Dive into the art of crafting Glass Resin Roses or discover the secrets to nurturing your rose garden to perfection. With laughter and learning guaranteed, these engaging sessions are the perfect way to enhance your visit. Ready to create, care, and captivate? Explore our upcoming classes and workshops today – simply click here to find your perfect match!

2. A Stroll Through the Gardens

Embrace serenity together on the Great Lawn, where the whisper of the breeze and the soft rustle of leaves create a symphony of natural tranquility. Meander hand-in-hand by the reflective waters of Mirror Lake, letting the calming surroundings deepen your connection. Wander through the seasonal gardens, letting the vibrant Camellias infuse a splash of passionate color into your romantic journey. Lastly, find peace in the elegant simplicity of the Japanese Garden, a harmonious retreat where every step brings you closer together.

3. Step Back in Time with Love

Explore the Bellingrath Home, steeped in timeless grace, and let your minds wander through the love stories whispered by its historic walls. Revel in the charm of the home’s collection of pristine antiques and the stunning architectural details that offer an idyllic setting for a day imbued with romance.

4. Capture Memories with a Photo Session

Pack your camera or enlist the talents of a professional photographer for a romantic duo or Galentine’s-themed photo session. Let Bellingrath Gardens be the canvas for creating and capturing beautiful, enduring memories. Post your cherished moments online with the hashtag #LoveAtBellingrath.

5. Buy a New Plant

Seize the opportunity to acquire an exquisite botanical treasure at the Mobile Area Orchid Society’s 45th Annual Orchid Show & Sale, or find the perfect addition to your garden during our Spring Plant Sale, happening March 8-10.

6. Attend a Seasonal Festival or Event

Bellingrath Gardens & Home buzzes with vibrant events all year round, offering an eclectic mix of festivities. Whether you’re here to revel in the Spring Azalea Bloom Out or to sip and savor at our Annual Beers & Blooms craft beer festival, every visit promises a unique experience. Immerse yourself in a celebration of live music, stunning floral displays, gourmet delights, and artisanal crafts. Check out our full calendar of upcoming events here.

Bellingrath Gardens & Home is not just a place; it’s an experience that nurtures love and creates lasting memories. This Valentine’s Day, invite your significant other or best friend to a world of floral fantasy and historic charm. It’s a date that promises romance, beauty, and moments that will be treasured forever.

By Tom McGehee
Museum Home Director

No visitor to the Bellingrath Home can leave without feeling somewhat overwhelmed by the vast array of silver on display. There is an assortment of American, English, and French pieces, including objects of (nearly) pure silver as well as silver plate.

English Hallmarked:

The oldest items in the silver display were crafted in England in the 18th century and bear three hallmarks. The system of English hallmarks dates back to 1363 and guarantees the purity of the silver, making it the oldest form of consumer safety in England. The three marks include one to identify the maker, a letter indicating the production date, and a third symbol known as the standard mark, ensuring the piece is no less than 92.5% pure silver. Hallmarked items in the Bellingrath Collection span from the 18th to the early 20th century.

Sheffield Plate:

A process where copper sheets were rolled between and fused with silver films dates as early as 1742 in Sheffield, England. By the end of the century, Matthew Boulton found ways to produce candlesticks, coffee pots, tea pots, etc., using ribbons of solid silver at the rims and edges where wear would have been the worst. The Bellingrath Collection features early entrée dishes, wine coolers, and epergnes dating to the early 19th century.

EPNS (Electro-plated Nickel Silver or Copper):

In 1840, a patented process used an electric current to coat copper or Nickel Silver wares with a layer of silver. This was a less expensive process than the Sheffield method, and by 1852, only one workshop in Sheffield continued producing the earlier version. The Bellingrath Collection includes both English and American versions.

French Silver:

Similar to England, France required a hallmarking system ensuring the silver’s purity. One outstanding piece in the Bellingrath Collection is the soup tureen on a stand, created to celebrate the completion of the 107-mile-long Suez Canal in 1869.

American Coin Silver:

Before significant silver mines were discovered in the U.S., silversmiths often obtained silver by melting down coins with varying silver content. The purity level was typically 900 parts silver to 100 parts copper. Notable examples in the collection include an ornate compote and water pitcher.

Sterling Silver:

After the Civil War, American coins were uniformly made of 92.5% pure silver, and the mark “Sterling” was introduced. Tiffany & Co. was the first firm to use this mark, and the Bellingrath Collection features numerous examples of sterling silver, from flatware to various serving pieces.

To delve deeper into the subject of silver and learn about its care, join Tom McGehee on Wednesday, February 21, at 10:30 AM at Bellingrath Gardens.

By Cory Sparks
Director of Development

On one of my initial days at Bellingrath, I was strolling toward the mermaid fountain when sunlight broke through the clouds. Someone had just texted to inquire about how my new job was going. I responded with a photo of the dazzling fountain. “Incredible,” my friend replied, “It must be amazing to be surrounded by that beauty at work.”

Indeed, it is amazing to be surrounded by Bellingrath’s beauty and elegance. The staff works long hours to create a special place for visitors. A few minutes before encountering the mermaid, I had marveled at the number of bulbs my colleagues were planting around the Great Lawn. “That’s only the beginning,” they said, “There are thousands of them!” It’s a privilege to play my own role in ensuring this beauty continues, partnering with members and other donors to invest in an almost century-long legacy.

At Bellingrath, the staff and supporters, both past and present, provide visitors with opportunities to connect with and learn about the natural world, hear stories about our founders and their historic estate, and be inspired by design, art, architecture, and gardening. Bellingrath is a place to share with friends and family as we stroll the grounds on a spring day or celebrate special events like Magic Christmas in Lights.

I would love to hear your stories about Bellingrath and why it’s important to you and those close to you. I would also like to know what you envision for its future. Together, we are stewards of a legacy left by Walter and Bessie Bellingrath. Together, we will ensure this beauty and elegance continue into the next century, inspiring future generations.

By Dr. F. Todd Lasseigne
Executive Director

Last week, I had the pleasure of participating in the 2024 Gulf States Horticultural Expo, the 25th-anniversary gathering of green industry professionals and allied trades at the convention center in downtown Mobile. From delivering a presentation highlighting plants we’ve been trialing at Bellingrath Gardens & Home during my three-plus years there to spending a day manning our booth at the trade show and exploring the floor, I feel rejuvenated and invigorated.

Nursery trade shows often take place in winter, providing a moment of relative rest before the hustle and bustle of spring while fostering anticipation for the upcoming season. Listening to people share stories of their past visits to Bellingrath, some from their childhood, was both exhilarating and poignant. It was exciting to hear the cherished memories of those who had visited Bellingrath many years or even decades ago. However, it was also disheartening to learn that many of these individuals hadn’t returned in a significant amount of time.

This emotional contrast raises numerous questions, reminiscent of a similar experience I had when relocating to Mobile from Tulsa, Oklahoma in late August 2020. Upon a rock cracking my windshield, the cashier at the windshield replacement center expressed surprise that Bellingrath was still open. This encounter underscored the challenge of maintaining awareness and engagement over time.

What motivates people to visit places like Bellingrath Gardens & Home repeatedly? This is a question constantly faced by the public garden world, the historic home sector, and the museum domain. We grapple with how to sustain public interest without relying on fleeting trends or gimmicks, preserving our mission while remaining relevant, and connecting our mission to the contemporary world.

Looking back, it’s evident that Mr. Bellingrath recognized decades ago the need for continuous marketing of the gardens. He advertised in distant cities like Chicago, Houston, and along the East Coast, using catchy phrases such as “The Charm Spot of the Deep South” to attract visitors. His dedication to promoting the Gardens endured until his final days, emphasizing its role as a lasting memorial to his late wife’s artistry.

Since becoming the executive director of Bellingrath Gardens & Home, I’ve felt optimistic about our future. I am particularly bullish about what lies ahead. This sentiment is shared by the many faces seen at the Gulf States trade show over the past two days, mirroring the optimism that often accompanies the approach of the end of winter.

I encourage you to visit us today, not tomorrow or solely during the holiday season. Experience the spectacle right here in southern Mobile County—a special place recognized as “worth traveling to” by international garden travel leaders. If it’s worth traveling to from afar, it’s undoubtedly worth visiting when it’s just a few miles down the road.