The Primeval Forest, the undoubted centrepiece of Kells Bay Gardens is a collection of tree ferns, which have adapted to and colonised their new home so completely that Antipodean visitors feel at home there. Sensitivity to the circumstance of evolution that created this area remains the keystone of any development within the gardens. Wandering alone in the silence of this timeless plantation is to be taken back to the early days of life on this planet, and at times the atmosphere is so ominous one listens for the approach of ancient predators through the undergrowth.
To see the Primeval Forest, take the Red Walk through the Ladies Walled Garden and this will naturally lead you through to the Primeval Garden. Don’t necessarily follow the way makers as there is so much to see here.
Once again there were losses of some of the more exotic tree ferns in this area in the winters of 2010. Thankfully the huge stands of massive trunked Dicksonia antarctica came through. Other ferns worth noting are Dicksonia fibrosa, Blechnum nudum, Blechnum tabulare, Polystichum vestitum, the epiphytic fern Microsorum diversifolium amongst others.
To locate most of these plants go to the plant database.
