0ome of the '§.ixxtx ^vtts in the §nvbcns 

 of c^bbotsburp tostk. 



Bead before the Members August 17th, 1S93. 



By J. C. MANSEL-PLEYDELL, Esq., F.G.S., F.L.S. 



T have selected a few of the rarer trees which grow 

 here and traced the history of their origin 

 from very ancient periods. Several Earls of 

 Ilchester have in succession placed their 

 inherited love of nature, especially that which 

 relates to floriculture and arboriculture, in 

 developing the natural resoiirces of the soil 

 and situation of this favoured spot. 

 These Gardens are protected on all sides by sheltering hills, on the 

 north by the range surmounted by Abbotsbury Castle Rings, on the 

 south and west by St. Catherine's and Linton Hills, Avhich ward off 

 the south-west gales so fatal to trees and shrubs on our coasts. In 

 addition the Gulf Stream lends its aid to maintain a flora compar- 

 able to that of the Western Piviera. The height and size of many 

 of the trees show the care, thoughtful selection, and scientific 

 knowledge the Earls of Ilchester have bestowed for so long a 

 period upon the Gardens, by which they have attained their 

 present perfection. 



