Bishopville is home to two legends: one man and one myth. However, long before the Lizard Man of Scape Ore Swamp was spotted nearby in 1988, another Bishopville legend, Pearl Fryar, was well on his way to becoming a world-renowned plant whisperer and topiary artist. Today, Pearl Fryar’s Topiary Garden in South Carolina has attained world-acclaim and has been featured in publications (such as the New York Times and National Geographic) on in broadcast (news, interviews, a documentary, and more) scores of times. If you have yet to make the journey to Pearl Fryar’s garden, then now is the time to add this living work of art to your calendar, soon.
Fryar began his now famous topiary garden in the early 1980s with discarded plants from local nurseries. His green thumb and tender loving care brought those plants back from the dead and helped them grow and flourish. And then…
PearlFryar.com
…the trimming, cutting, sculpting, and well… the true magic began to unfold as Fryar created living masterworks of art right in his front yard.
Google/James Costello
Today, there are more than 300 plants and 14 junk art sculptures that compliment the whimsical designs dotting the landscape.
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On any given day, scores of people wander through Fryar’s garden - which happens to cover the entire yard of his personal residence. (Note: the garden is open to visitors Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.)
Google/Ralph Giello
Wandering through Fryar’s topiary garden is an enchanting experience every South Carolinian should have at least once.
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But if you can go twice, we suggest a summer visit, when the garden is lush and super green as well as a winter visit. Imagine these topiary sculptures when the grass is a different color (namely a shade of brown) in the winter. The contrast is outstanding.
Google/Stan Gucwa
Don’t be surprised if you spot Pearl Fryar out taking care of his beloved plants when you visit. Now approaching 80, Fryar still plays an active role in maintaining the garden.
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When you’re ready to visit, you can’t miss Fryar’s house. He’s created a topiary with the house number and it lives at the edge of the property!
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The legendary Pearl Fryar’s Topiary Garden in South Carolina is open Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission is free. Learn more on the official website, follow the Facebook page here, and go here to make a donation.
PearlFryar.com
Google/James Costello
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Google/Ralph Giello
Google/Stan Gucwa
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Address: 145 Broad Acres Road, Bishopville, SC, 29010
While you’re in Bishopville, grab some lunch to go and pop into beautiful Lee State Park for a picnic! Learn more here!
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