The Parkhotel Brenscino in Ticino is located near the Italian border in Brissago, in an idyllic setting with magnificent views over Lake Maggiore. A garden is included, though "park" is a more fitting term for the green space. It measures 38,000 square meters, or, to put it another way, over five football fields. Martin Russenberger is the master of this flourishing miniature universe. For over 35 years, he has cultivated and designed his domain with great attention to detail and a flair for subtropical plants. In doing so, he constantly discovers new things that surprise him.
"Suddenly, I discovered a rare passion flower that had self-seeded and began to bloom after a few years," Russenberger enthuses, explaining further: "I let the fruits of my plants hang. The seeds fell to the ground, and eventually, a new flower grew from them." What's interesting is that this particular passion flower is a cross between two others – essentially a unique park specimen. But other rarities have also found a home here, such as a rare Chilean wax bellflower that has been blooming repeatedly since Russenberger's first year on the job.
For those who prefer something a bit more imposing, look for a Chinese ginkgo tree in the grounds. Russenberger recalls: "When I first started, the park was a wilderness; I had to use a machete. I noticed a small plant, but it wasn't in good condition. Nevertheless, it grew into a giant ginkgo tree and has survived rockfalls and more. The tree has grown with me in the park."
Anyone who listens to the Schaffhausen native, who found his calling in Ticino, will be truly drawn in by his enthusiasm for plants. He has a personal story for almost every one of his flowers, shrubs, and trees, which visitors can experience firsthand. Russenberger shares his passion through garden tours – with hotel guests, school classes, and even kindergartens.
Martin Russenberger - The World in the Garden
