Roman The Romans were the first to start growing plants for ornamental purposes and not just to eat. Discover more about the impact the Romans had on gardening in Britain, or try our interactive version.

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Timeline

Roman style of gardening

AD 43
The Roman invasion of Britain

c.AD75
The garden at the Flavian Palace, now known as Fishbourne , near Chichester is started. There's evidence of box planting. It is thought that this was the first garden in Britain to feature topiary.

c.AD100
Sweet cherries are introduced to Britain from Greece, via Italy. Romans are thought to have introduced many plants to the UK, including box, plums, walnuts, mulberries, vines, leeks, garlic, parsley, turnips, cabbages and roses.

AD278
Emperor Probus permits the planting of vineyards in England.

c.AD280 to 285
Evidence suggests a 12-acre vineyard is set up at North Thoresby in Lincolnshire.

c.AD436
The Romans leave Britain. After the Romans' departure, there's little evidence of gardens until the medieval period.

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