In A Unicorn's Garden - the mystery and magic of medieval gardens

If, like me, you love to be surprised by unusual gardening books then ‘In A Unicorn’s Garden’ should not disappoint you. Judyth McLeod’s fascinating book focuses on the creation of gardens that reflect the mystery and magic of the medieval period.

The book is full of engaging historical overviews and discussion of society, culture, religion and mythology in relation to each chapter theme. In the Prologue the author points out that the book is not a history of medieval times, rather it opens nine casements on the medieval world.

The book’s nine chapters (casements) cover such interesting topics as The Cook’s Garden; An Orchard Garden, The Knight’s Garden, Unicorns and Other Magical Beasts and The Abbess’ Garden.

Each chapter opens with a historical overview of the theme - interspersed with sections on plants and relevant issues. In the chapter on the Knight’s Garden, for example, we are introduced to the Crusades which includes an absorbing section on The Damask Rose (Rosa x damasceena) - reportedly brought back to a castle in Champagne by the Crusader Robert de Brie and later introduced to England. Here too we find a section on the influence of Islamic gardens; The Herber and finally a garden design for A Pleasant Herber.

In The Mary Garden we are introduced to the types of plants which were directly associated with the Virgin Mary, or were sanctified by close association and so we find descriptions of the Carnation and Sweet Violet among others.

I was fascinated to read about the Garden of St Gall, which in fact never existed, but which is generally the garden in our imagination which typifies the perfect monastery garden. There is even an insight into peasant gardens and farms, medieval meats and the kitchens of the nobility.

Judyth McLeod is a world renowned horticulturist and garden historian and her book brings together her own beautiful watercolour garden designs as well as specially commissioned photography. A thoroughly absorbing and well-planned book which really does bring a touch of paradise and mystery into the 21st century in a highly absorbing read. Published by Murdoch Books UK, it will be available in April 2008 - so make sure you have room for it on your bookshelf. Pre order online at Amazon and save 50% off the rrp! (As going to print, excluding p&p!)