Visitors to Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter, South Carolina step into an enchanting nature sanctuary. From the greeting by geese to the farewell by fireflies, a day in the gardens embeds one in the natural order of a swampland scenario.
The public gardens which were at one time two adjacent private residential gardens cover over 150 acres. Swan Lake is black from the tannin of surrounding bald cypress tree roots and knees. The acidic and moist soil circumventing the lake supports thousands of Japanese iris.
Japanese Iris
Japanese iris, Iris ensata, has been cultivated for over five centuries in Japan. The large simple flowers symbolized a good omen and were used in festivals and ceremonies. The irises were grown in paddy fields. The fields were flooded to show the full beauty of the flower reflected in the water. This tradition led to the mistaken belief that Japanese iris must be grown in water. They can be grown in full sun or partial shade as well as dry soil as long as they are watered well in the growing season. It so happens that the thick tall clumps of ribbed leaves planted in drifts are spectacular around the perimeter of a pond or lake.
The colors are generally shades of white, violet, purple, blue and mauve. These colors may be veined, rimmed or splashed, splattered or stippled across the surface of the flower. Flowers resemble the shape of a crumpled cloth handkerchief or napkin.
Swan Lake iris bloom in May and June peaking around Memorial Day when the annual Iris Festival has been held since 1940. The three-day event includes lectures on iris culture and iris sales.
Year-round Adventures
Although irises dominate the garden in spring, the gardens offer natural wonders and adventures year-round. A talking tree walk calls attention to attributes of the cypress, sweet gum, and magnificent native and introduced specimens around Swan Lake. A circular camellia garden glitters with blossoms in late fall and winter. In December the lake and gardens twinkle during the Fantasy of Lights.
Eight species of swan call the gardens home and appear in various roles throughout the year. Territorial behavior is exhibited during mating season. The nesting “swandominiums” where cygnets are hatched and reared make fascinating photography.
Oil from the numerous preening waterfowl on the lake – wood duck, mallard, Canada geese and swans – floats on the water’s surface. Feeding troughs located around the lake allow visitors to watch swans and ducks up close at mealtime.
Birders can expect to see anhinga, great egret, blue heron, and kingfisher as well as native songbirds. A boardwalk over Swan Lake takes one into thicker foliage with the chance to see additional aquatic and arboreal wildlife.
In summer perennial beds splash color along the paths and in three theme gardens. A butterfly garden features host and nectar plants. A sensory garden for the visually impaired includes signage in Braille. The chocolate lover’s garden grows flowers, herbs, and vegetables with chocolate names, colors, and/or scent like chocolate mint, chocolate sunflowers, and chocolate bell peppers.
Picnics are popular year-round at Swan Lake. Weddings, receptions, parties and meetings are scheduled too. Swan Lake is open daily from 7:30a.m. until dusk. Admission is free. The city of Sumter, South Carolina maintains and operates the gardens.
