Man who shaped a Devon paradise wins rare honour
Malcolm has nurtured one of the region's most celebrated gardens for over 50 years
A North Devon gardener who has nurtured one of the region’s most celebrated gardens for over 50 years has been awarded one of the highest honours in British horticulture.
Malcolm Pharoah, the longtime head gardener at Marwood Hill Garden, has been named an Associate of Honour by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) – a title held by only 100 people in the UK at any one time. The award was presented during a ceremony in London.
RHS president Keith Weed CBE described Malcolm as “a respected plantsman and passionate conservationist whose contributions to horticulture have spanned over five decades” and praised his role in establishing Marwood Hill as “one of the most admired private gardens in the South West”.
Malcolm began working at the garden in 1972 when it was still in its early stages of development. Since then, he has played a key role in building its reputation, particularly for its collections of camellias, rhododendrons and astilbes.
Speaking after receiving the award, Malcolm said: “I am delighted to get this award and would like to thank the RHS. Horticulture and gardening are such a wonderful world to work in – it’s not all about taking out weeds! There are so many different careers one can choose, from gardening to floristry. Marwood Hill Gardens are a beautiful and relaxing place.”
His efforts have earned the garden international recognition. The International Camellia Society has designated Marwood Hill a Garden of Excellence, and in 2022 its astilbe collection won both a Gold Medal and the Plant Heritage award for ‘Best in Show’ at the Hampton Court Flower Show.
Georgia Taylor-Smart, business manager at Marwood Hill, said: “We are very proud and very fortunate to have Malcolm as our head gardener. People come from all over the country to visit us, and this year, with Malcolm’s help, we’ll be unveiling some exciting new planting and improvements to the gardens.”
For more about the gardens or plant sales, visit marwoodhillgarden.co.uk or plant sales.