Pulham

Pulham refers primarily to two villages and a related horticultural and landscape gardening tradition in England:

1. Pulham Market and Pulham St Mary: These are two villages located in the civil parish of Pulham in Norfolk, England. They are situated close to each other, and the distinction between them is often blurred. Historically, Pulham Market was the larger of the two and held market rights, hence the name.

2. Pulham & Son: This was a renowned firm of landscape gardeners and manufacturers of artificial rock formations, established by James Pulham (1820-1898). They operated from about 1840 to the 1930s, creating elaborate landscapes, rock gardens, grottos, and other features for estates and public parks across Britain and beyond. Their work, often incorporating a unique form of artificial stone known as "Pulhamite," is considered an important part of garden history.

Pulhamite: This is a type of artificial rock or stone invented and manufactured by Pulham & Son. It was created using a secret recipe involving cement, clinker, and other materials, and then skillfully moulded to resemble natural rock formations. Pulhamite was favoured for its durability, lightweight nature compared to natural stone, and the ability to create complex and aesthetically pleasing landscape features relatively quickly and cost-effectively. Examples of Pulhamite can still be seen in many gardens and parks today, although restoration is often required.

The name "Pulham" is therefore strongly associated with this particular style of landscape architecture and the durable, artificial rock creations of Pulham & Son.