RHS x CITI Season of Abundance

The garden

Set at the heart of the Great Pavilion, around The Monument, sculptural raised forms emerge from the ground. Planted with layers of textured foliage, unfurling ferns, ornamental grasses and emerging buds, these forms evoke the vitality and renewal that characterise nature at this time of year.

Six large multi-stem trees anchor the landscape, while the planting incorporates spring highlights celebrated for their medicinal and healing properties. Height and scale add drama to this sculptural environment, where plants are treated as materials to shape form, texture and movement. The design also provides space to host talks with expert growers, who are on hand all week to offer insights into their growing processes, as well as sharing tips and advice with visitors.

The planting

Key plants have been selected not only for their peak bloom in May but also for their rich folklore associations and traditional medicinal uses:

• Peonies have long been valued for their health benefits, traditionally used to support circulation, ease menstrual discomfort, reduce inflammation and promote calm, making them a symbol of vitality and wellbeing as well as a striking garden feature

• Hawthorn is significant in May as it flowers around Beltane, marking the transition into late spring. It symbolises renewal, protection, resilience and heart health, reflecting both seasonal vitality and traditional folk associations with wellbeing and strength

• Common elder (Sambucus nigra), is significant in May as it marks the peak of spring growth and Beltane celebrations, symbolising abundance, vitality, resilience and good health, while its fragrant flowers have long been used in folk remedies, culinary recipes and traditional seasonal rituals

• Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a fragrant herb valued for its calming and digestive properties. In gardens, it’s often associated with May for its fresh, citrus-scented leaves, which have historically been used in teas, tinctures and infusions to promote relaxation, reduce stress and support overall wellbeing

• Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) is a delicate flowering herb, often associated with spring and early summer. In May, its small, daisy-like blooms signal the warming season and it is prized for its calming, anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Traditionally, chamomile flowers are used to make soothing teas, tinctures and infusions that promote relaxation, ease digestive discomfort and support gentle wellness routines

Plants supplied by: Form Plants, Primrose Hall peonies

The designer – Imogen Perreau

Imogen’s design inspiration is truly eclectic, drawing from a multitude of sources including wild landscapes, art, culture and architecture. Her background in storytelling allows her to effectively communicate her design intentions, weaving narratives into her projects.

Having personally experienced the healing power of nature in her own life, Imogen is passionate about promoting a deeper connection between people and the land through her designs. She strives to create spaces that inspire and rejuvenate, fostering a sense of wellbeing and tranquillity for those who interact with them.

Imogen Perreau Studio is a multi-award-winning garden design practice, driven by nature and dedicated to providing elegant and timeless gardens. Based in Sussex, the studio works on projects that span across London, the South of England and further afield. 

About the sponsor – Citi

Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in more than 180 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.

Citi’s sponsorship of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show reflects their commitment to connecting with clients and communities through world-class cultural moments. The show represents creativity, innovation, sustainability and global prestige – all values that closely align with Citi’s brand.