Our Norwegian Garden honors La Crosse’s sister city, Forde, Norway.  Forde is located in the part of Norway known for its many waterfalls, so it was essential that our Norwegian garden  include waterfalls.  One of the most famous waterfalls near Forde is called “Huldefossen,” named for the legend of the beautiful woman who lived in the mountain and would entice men into the forest.  If a visitor to our garden looks carefully, they might be able to spot the face of Hulde behind the small waterfall.  Various “nisse” and trolls will eventually be spotted in the Norwegian garden.  Other features in the Norwegian garden include the unique fencing, surrounded by rhubarb, strawberries, blueberries, and other plants one might find on a typical farm in Norway.  One can enter the garden through the beautiful “torvtak,” reminiscent of the many sod-roofed structures still found throughout Norway.

Contributing to the Norwegian culture are hardy shrub roses, a 2005’ University of MN introduction, named Ole, Lena, Sven & Sigrud.  Complementing the rose selection is a notable Norwegian cultivar, Grefsheim Spirea.  The National flower of Norway (Digitalis, or Foxglove) adds a splash of color throughout the gardens. The waterfall is landscaped with a variety of pine, Norway spruce (pyramidal, dwarf and weeping), Juniper and groupings of Birch Trees and Ornamental Shrubs.