About us

One of the Widest Ranges of Rhododendrons and Azaleas in the world

Millais Nurseries grow one of the widest ranges of Rhododendrons and Azaleas in the world, and have an unparalleled experience of the genus, and have achieved 5 consecutive RHS Gold medals at Chelsea. After many years of propagating for Exbury, in 2019 we helped the Rothschild family celebrate the centenary of Exbury Gardens with a stunning display based on Exbury plants and themes .This was delightfully filmed for BBC Gardener's World. 

Our Nurseries are tucked away down some lovely Surrey lanes, surrounded by 1,000 acres of National Trust heathlands with its abundant birdlife and wildlife, yet we are only an hour from London, or 30 minutes from RHS Wisley Gardens (M25 junction 10). You are welcome to visit our well stocked plant centre, or buy online from our website which is gathering more and more favourable reviews.

The Millais family has been established at Crosswater Farm since 1947, but our Rhododendron heritage goes back to the naturalist, botanist and author J G Millais, who identified and described many Rhododendrons for the first time, and published his great two volume series ‘Rhododendrons’ (1917 and 1924). Ted and Romy Millais started the nursery in 1970, and as septuagenarians they organized many exciting plant hunting trips to the Himalayas, and introduced several wonderful new species, some of which are offered here now.

In April 2024 the business was purchased by long term Nursery Manager Daniel and his partner Sarah, and we propagate around 35,000 Rhododendrons each year, by cuttings, grafts, seed and micropropagation. These are supplied to keen gardeners, large estates, botanic gardens, arboretums and specialist garden centres throughout England, Scotland and Wales (unfortunately not Europe after Brexit). No order is too small or too large for us to cope with, but please order rare plants as soon as they become available on the website, as the most sought after varieties do sell out!

 

Our range includes:

  • Choice species with fantastic year round foliage appeal.
  • Dwarf rhododendrons for the rock garden.
  • A selection of the best large hybrids from around the world, perfect for screening and background planting.
  • Amazing new Inkarho Lime Tolerant rhododendrons for chalk and clay soils.
  • Architectural big leaved species for sheltered woodland.
  • Scented deciduous azaleas for the fragrant garden.
  • The versatile evergreen azalea. Ideal for containers.
  • Compact yakushimanum hybrids for the smaller garden.
  • Tender Maddenia series rhododendrons for the conservatory.
  • Interesting small leaved plants with bluish foliage and long tubular flowers.
  • Companion plants such as Camellia, Cornus, Magnolia and Japanese Maples.

 

Our reputation for supplying quality plants continues to grow, and this season we have welcomed many prestigious new customers who have appreciated our plants and service.

We have the best selection of quality Rhododendrons in the country. We track down rare species from the Himalayas, and new hybrids from around the world to offer a range and a service that is second to none. Join our thousands of happy customers throughout Britain and Europe who return to us year after year for more of their favourite Rhododendrons, Acers, Magnolias, Camellias and companion plants.

Our plants are grown with the best environmental practices, using minimal chemicals, and lots of organic products such as compost tea with beneficial microbial and fungal activities, garlic barriers, citrus seed oil, seaweed, plant tonics and nematodes. They are healthy and green, and already inoculated to grow and perform well in your garden!

Directions

It is advisable to avoid Farnham; it's better to use the A3 to Hindhead tunnel if coming from the M25.

Take A333 immediately South of the A3 tunnel, and drive to Hindhead roundabouts. Take A287 towards Farnham for half mile, then turn right into Tilford Road (ignore sign for weight restriction at Tilford). At bottom of hill, turn left into Jumps Road at 'The Bel and Dragon'. After one mile turn right into Crosswater Lane. Crosswater Farm is on the right hand side.

If coming from Farnham, take the A287 for 6 miles, turn left into Jumps Road, and left into Crosswater Lane.

Lorry access

Artics must approach from the Eastern end of Jumps Road past 'The Bel and Dragon', where it is possible to turn around. Please note the weight restrictions on the bridges at Tilford. NO LEFT TURN FOR ARTICS INTO CROSSWATER LANE (Junction too tight). NO REVERSING DOWN CROSSWATER LANE. Access is tight, but there is space to turn at the Nursery.