The Italian Garden is in its prime in the summer months. Trickling water from fountains that have been closed all winter and bursts of color from a garden that was dormant for months is a welcome sight for visitors. Much deliberation went in to the making of the space and today it remains one of the most beloved spots at Planting Fields, especially as a place to escape the warm summer days. The garden is on the footprint of what was once a tennis court. The Coes worked with the Olmsted Brothers Firm to redesign the space and we are fortunate that several detailed plans exist that showcase the planting plans, just like the image historic included here.
The Italian Garden is a perfect example of the orchestration of the built and natural world and it showcases the importance of vistas throughout the property. Each view from the garden offers a distinct composition, especially from the vantage point from the sunken garden. To the east is the Azalea Walk, to the south is the Tea House, to the west is the rose arbor and to the north Coe Hall. The Tea House was designed by famed interior decorator Elsie de Wolfe. For the decoration of the house, the painter Everett Shinn was called upon. He created two murals and a suite of painted furniture for the space. The interior is outfitted with de Wolfe’s trademark mint trelliage to complete the outdoor feel. It is quite easy to imagine Mai Coe enjoying the Italian Garden with her friends and we know from historic records that she was quite involved in its design. When Coe Hall reopens for tours, visitors can see how Mai Coe’s bedroom on the second floor enjoys great views of the Italian Garden, which is certainly no coincidence.
Here is a list of what is blooming in the garden in the spring and summer. A special thank you to Norma Gattulli and Vincent Simeone from New York State Parks for providing this information. Be sure to visit us soon as the Lilac walk on the west side of the Italian Garden is coming into bloom!
In the spring: Tree Peonies, Itoh Peonies, Tree Lilacs, Aquilegia, Geum, Aremeria, Daffodils, Star of Bethlehem, and Grape Hyacinth Bulbs.
In the summer: Echinacea, Phlox, Iris, Sedum, Liatris, Salvia, Platycodon, Physostegia, Daisy, Lupine, Aconitium (Monkshood), Giant Allium, Delphinium, Digitalis (Foxgloves), Nepeta (New variety called ‘Cat’s Pajamas’), Chelone, Origanum and Euphorbia.
As for annuals, keep an eye out for Hungarian Blue Poppy, Blue Cornflowers, Fan Dance Celosia, French Marigolds, Cleome, Zinnia varieties, Balsam and Craspedia.
Planting Fields Foundation