Glendoick is rooted in the estate landscape near Glencarse in Perthshire, where the Cox family began developing woodland gardens in the early 20th century, following plant collecting expeditions in Asia. The nursery itself was formally established in 1953 by Euan Cox and his son Peter, marking the transition from private garden to horticultural enterprise.
The nursery has remained focused on the cultivation of rhododendrons and related plants, with much of its stock still grown in open ground rather than containers. This approach reflects a preference for developing strong root systems and plants suited to outdoor conditions. Over time, plant breeding has become a central activity, with successive generations contributing to the development of new hybrids.
Its offering extends beyond specialist plants to include a broader range of trees, shrubs, and perennials, alongside a retail garden centre established in 1973. The site also supports mail order sales and maintains display gardens that reflect its plant collections, many of which originate from expeditions and long-term cultivation.
Continuity is a defining feature of Glendoick. The business remains under family ownership, with three generations of the Cox family associated with its development and reputation. This continuity is reflected not only in the nursery itself but in its wider contribution to horticultural knowledge, including published works and ongoing plant exploration.
Within Scotland’s horticultural landscape, Glendoick occupies a position of long-standing authority. It operates as both a working nursery and a centre of plant expertise, linking practical cultivation with a sustained programme of plant collection and breeding. Its influence extends beyond retail, contributing to the wider understanding and cultivation of rhododendrons in northern climates.