Peter and Kenneth Cox were
pivotal figures for Scottish botany, transforming Glendoick into a world-renowned centre for rhododendrons through extensive plant hunting, successful hybridisation, influential publications, and establishing a leading garden centre, introducing countless new species and cultivars suited to Scottish gardens and beyond. Their multi-generational efforts preserved lost species, developed hardy new varieties, and significantly advanced the understanding and cultivation of rhododendrons globally.
Key Contributions:
Peter Cox led numerous expeditions with partners like Sir Peter Hutchison, exploring China, the Himalayas, and India, reintroducing lost species and discovering new ones, notes Glendoick Garden Centre and The Scottish Rhododendron Society.
Kenneth continued this legacy, leading major expeditions to Tibet and India, finding and introducing unique species like R. titapuriense.
Peter was a pioneer, developing dwarf rhododendrons for smaller gardens (e.g., 'Curlew', 'Ptarmigan') and vibrant cultivars like 'Wine and Roses', says The Courier and Horticulture Week.
Their work ensured hardy, adaptable plants thrived in Scottish conditions and globally.
Starting in the 1950s, Glendoick grew from a nursery into a renowned garden centre (1973) and mail-order business, specializing in rhododendrons and other alpine plants, becoming a hub for gardeners.
The woodland garden showcases their hybridizing efforts and introduced species.
The Cox family (Euan, Peter, Kenneth) published over 20 influential books on rhododendrons, Scottish gardening, and plant hunting, shaping horticultural knowledge worldwide.
Peter's "Modern Rhododendrons" and Kenneth's "Scotland for Gardeners" are key examples, notes Horticulture Week and The Scottish Rhododendron Society.
They are considered world leaders in rhododendron expertise, preserving cultural heritage, training new generations, and ensuring these plants flourish in gardens.
In essence, the Cox family, through Glendoick, made Scottish botany world-class, particularly in the rhododendron field, by combining exploration, breeding, and education.