The ancient wisteria covering the pergola in waves of blossoms is the first harbinger of spring at Wisteria Hill.
The ancient wisteria are the main focal point of the gardens.
The Georgian-style mansion was built in 1910; a century later, new owners expanded the home and restored the grounds. The main garden now includes a fountain, wisteria-covered pergola, koi ponds and renovated parterres. In the foreground, a row of Linden trees will be sheared into a perfect rectangular shape as they mature.
Four Taylor junipers stand sentry over the formal gardens; the clipped boxwood parterres were replanted along with additional boxwood hedges in serpentine shapes. New gravel paths lead visitors throughout the garden.
The garden outside the kitchen was replanted all in white; late-spring blooming Allium Mount Everest makes a striking contrast to the lush boxwoods.
The property is awash in many hues from light violet wisteria, purple peonies and Globe Allium to blue Globe Thistle, dark pink roses and masses of bulbs in pinks, oranges and purples.
Come summer, the family gravitates to the expansive patio, which offers a perfect spot to view the garden.
Dahlias, hydrangeas, Veronicastrum, Phlox and Macleaya (Plume Poppy) and planted urns provide welcome pops of color.
“I love the look of the original stone steps that are covered in lichen and mosses,” Bilgore says. “They are a testament to the estate’s history.”
