Plant hunter Kenneth Cox, who is considered one of the most experienced and knowledgeable gardeners in Scotland, visited more than five hundred gardens while compiling his book.

"I am delighted to hear that someone of such knowledge in the gardening world has recognised their worth," said local councillor Len Scoullar. "They are an asset for Bute."

Mr Cox describes the gardens, run by Argyll and Bute Council and located on the slopes of Canada Hill on the outskirts of Rothesay, as having the best display of summer bedding anywhere in Scotland.

He claims that "even the stoutest bedding-plant snob" cannot fail to be impressed by the displays on show during the gardens' peak in July and August.

The Ardencraig complex has been responsible for many of the awards heaped on Rothesay's floral displays over the years, including one from the Beautiful Scotland scheme last year.

"The greenhouses were in very poor condition," said Cllr Scoullar, "and I'd agree wholeheartedly that the effort put in to restoring the gardens was well worthwhile."

The gardens now supply plants to the council's public gardens in Cowal as well as Bute.