The Arderne Gardens, with its shady glades, romantic nooks, and Japanese-style ponds has, for generations, been a place for Capetonians to bring their children, take much cherished wedding photographs, and relax away from the increasing hubbub of city life.

The garden, thanks to the extraordinary interest and commitment of its founders, also has one of the most diverse and valuable collections of exotic trees in all of South Africa. It now officially includes one of the largest trees in South Africa, the vast Moreton Bay Fig (or Wedding Tree, as it is commonly called) and quite possibly the largest Aleppo Pine in the world. These trees, along with four others, were proudly designated Champion Trees in 2008. Today, four Champion Trees remain.