Rhododendron Week begins in Carlow

Altamont Gardens in County Carlow, in partnership with the Office of Public Works (OPW), is celebrating Rhododendron Week as its renowned collection of rhododendrons bursts into vibrant bloom.

Although rhododendrons—particularly Rhododendron ponticum—are classified as a significant invasive species, they are also admired across Ireland for their striking floral displays. Originally introduced in the 18th and 19th centuries as ornamental plants for grand estates, these eye-catching shrubs have become a familiar sight in the Irish landscape.

Altamont’s impressive rhododendron collection dates back more than 150 years. It was first brought to the gardens by Fielding Lecky Watson, father of Corona North, who generously gifted the estate to the Irish State following her death in 1999.

To mark Rhododendron Week, free guided tours are available daily at 12 noon and 3pm. The gardens are open every day from 9am to 6.30pm, with free entry for all visitors. For tours outside scheduled times, bookings can be made via altamontgardens@opw.ie.

Minister of State for the OPW, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran T.D., praised the event, “A trip to Altamont Gardens during Rhododendron Week is magnificent. The colourful array of rhododendrons in full bloom is a sight to behold. With free tours available throughout the week, it’s a great opportunity to explore and learn more about this spectacular location.”

Despite their beauty, rhododendrons can pose serious ecological challenges. In places like Killarney National Park, they have aggressively spread through woodlands, forming dense thickets that outcompete native species and threaten local biodiversity—a reminder of the complex legacy behind these ornamental plants.