Birmingham -- Agee-Wrinkle Garden

The entrance to this 2.25-acre garden is marked by a low stone wall and masses of native azalea (Rhododendron canescens). Handsome brick columns surmounted with cast iron urns define the courtyard at the entrance to the house. Espaliered trees (Malus angustifolia) and vines (Trachelospermum jasminoides) against a brick wall provide a garden setting for guest parking. Adjacent to the parking area is a small sunken boxwood parterre with a stone bench and seasonal perennials in the background. The surrounding property makes up a woodland garden, featuring paths with native ferns, azaleas, iris, dry stone work, and a rustic bridge over a year-round stream, all planted with a variety of native material. Over all, a statue of St. Fiacre, patron saint of gardeners, keeps a watchful eye.

Persons associated with the garden include: Mr. and Mrs. Rucker Agee (former owners, 1938-1987); Hugh Martin (architect, 1938); Richard Pigford (architect, 1987-1988); Norman Kent Johnson (landscape architect, 1987-1988); and C. Beaty Hanna (horticulturist, 1955-1995).