Arboretum of La Fosse

The Parc de La Fosse, near Montoire sur le Loir, is one of the oldest arboretums in France.

Thousands of trees and shrubs from around the world have been planted on this hillside of the Loir valley since the end of the 18th century, initially around the buildings. The current plan covering 25 ha (50 acres) was designed by the owner, Alexandre-Sébastien Gérard.

Eight generations of the same family have maintained the Parc de La Fosse and continuously enriched it with the new botanical discoveries of the last three centuries.

Paths and clearings are lined with plants both scientifically interesting and an aesthetically attractive. Magnolia, Cornus and Rhododendron in bloom are spectacular in the Spring, while in the Autumn the colours of the Parrotia persica, Nyssa sylvatica, and Carya ovata are truly flamboyant over the carpet of Naples Cyclamens in the undergrowth.

Among the most remarkable trees to be admired at La Fosse: Cedrus libani (1810), Pinus laricio (1820), Juniperus drupacea (1880), Taxus baccata fastigiata (1825), Davidia involucrata (1905), Quercus dentata, Cedrus brevifolia...

Especially beautiful barks can be seen on a row of Acer griseum and Hersii, Prunus serrula and Maackii, Betula costata and albo-sinensis septentrionalis, Arbutus Andrachne and Menziesii.

Lagerstroemia indica, Ceanothus, Actinidia sinensis and kolomikta grow against the buildings.

Crinum Powelli, Amaryllis Belladona, Romneya Coulteri and Nerine Bowdeni line sunny walls.

Like many other arboretums, the Parc de La Fosse plays a triple role of observation, experimentation and repository. At the crossroads of Science, Art and History, it is registered and protected as a Historical Monument.