Octavia Hill Geranium on display at Ilam to mark the Centenary of her Death

There have been some new additions to the gardens at Ilam Hall recently in the shape of several terracotta pots which have been introduced primarily to display the Octavia Hill geranium.  

The plants are displayed in the Italian garden, adjoining garden and tea room area.

Octavia Hill (1838-1912) was a truly remarkable woman whose life was dedicated to helping the poor by improving their quality of life through social reforms and public health pioneering.

Octavia’s environmental campaigns resulted in the retention and creation of urban and country open spaces, parks and city corners.  Octavia’s strong beliefs in the importance of clean ‘open spaces’ for the well being of individuals, led her to become one of the co-founders of the National Trust.

More information on Octavia Hill's life and work can be found here on the National Trust web site.