REVEALED: The Queen’s favourite flower - and you won't believe what it is
GETTY The Queen said she was not an expert gardener
In a rare public broadcast, Queen Elizabeth II spoke in a pre-recorded interview to congratulate the radio show for reaching such a milestone anniversary. And although she claimed she was not an expert in gardening, she revealed “plants, trees and flowers have been a source of pleasure” throughout her life. While John Anderson, keeper of the gardens at Frogmore House in Windsor where the broadcast was recorded, revealed the Queen’s favourite flower is actually a primrose - although he added she is also partially fond of wildflowers. He also claimed the Queen had a broad colour palette and enjoyed visiting the Windsor gardens during the spring.
BBC The BBC Radio show was broadcast from Frogmore House and Gardens
Speaking at the end of the show today, the Queen told listeners of the BBC Radio show: “I very much hope you’ve enjoyed visiting these gardens which hold a special place in my family’s affection. “Queen Victoria 150 years ago wrote of this dear garden ‘where all is peace and quiet’. “These days there is more noise from the air than 150 years ago but Frogmore remains a relaxing environment. “I’m not an expert but plants, trees and flowers have been the source of pleasure throughout my life.” She added her mother was a “hands-on gardener”, in a tradition which has been followed throughout the family.
Queen Elizabeth II in pictures Fri, September 29, 2017 Queen Elizabeth II making her Royal visits in her many colourful and elegant outfits. Play slideshow PA 1 of 100 Queen Elizabeth II smiles during a visit to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary
And the Queen added her congratulations to the BBC radio show, saying: “As you mark the programme’s 70th anniversary, I send my congratulations and wish you continued success.” She also added her thanks for a gift - a purple-flowering plant called Daphne bholua Jacqueline Postill - which was presented to her gardener during the broadcast, saying she and Prince Philip “look forward to seeing and enjoying in the near future.” The pre-recorded speech was featured as the BBC Radio 4 show visits the historic royal retreat of Frogmore House and Gardens at Windsor. While the house is now mostly used for entertaining, it was made popular by Queen Charlotte, consort of George III, in the 1700s who was passionate about wildlife and arranged the landscaping of the grounds.
PA Queen Elizabeth II spoke in a pre-recorded interview to congratulate the radio show