Head gardener at Marwood Hill Gardens receives RHS lifetime achievement award

The head gardener at Marwood Hill Gardens, Malcolm Pharoah, has been awarded the RHS Associate of Honour, a lifetime achievement recognition presented to only 100 individuals across the UK.

Malcolm, who has dedicated more than five decades to horticulture, was celebrated at a ceremony in London.

RHS President Keith Weed CBE praised him as “a respected plantsman and passionate conservationist whose contributions to horticulture have spanned over five decades” and have helped make Marwood Hill “one of the most admired private gardens in the South West. As a mentor, speaker, and advocate for plant conservation, he continues to inspire and educate gardeners across the UK.”

Malcolm joined Marwood Hill Garden in 1972, when it was still in its early stages. 

Over the years, he has played a crucial role in developing the garden’s renowned collections of camellias, rhododendrons, and astilbes. 

The garden, set in a beautiful valley just four miles from Barnstaple, spans 20 acres and features three lakes. 

It has earned recognition for its tranquil beauty and botanical diversity.

Reflecting on the honour, Malcolm said: “I am delighted to get this award and would like to thank the RHS. Horticulture and gardening are such a wonderful world to work in – it’s not all about taking out weeds! There are so many different careers one can choose, from gardening to floristry. Marwood Hill Gardens are a beautiful and relaxing place.”

Malcolm's efforts over the years have led to Marwood Hill being chosen as a Garden of Excellence by the International Camellia Society, while its astilbes were awarded a Gold Medal and the Plant Heritage award for ‘Best in Show’ at the Hampton Court Flower Show in 2022.

“We are very proud and very fortunate to have Malcolm as our head gardener,” said Georgia Taylor-Smart, Marwood Hill’s business manager. 

“People come all over the country to visit us, and this year, with Malcolm’s help, we’ll be unveiling some exciting new planting and improvements to the gardens.”

Monday, April 14, will also mark Malcolm’s 76th birthday, adding an extra layer of celebration to this special moment in his career.

Malcolm's dedication to horticulture continues to leave a lasting legacy at Marwood Hill Garden, inspiring future generations of gardeners.