New Plants this Year
Trees & Shrubs
Abutilon 'Ines'
A new Pan-Global' intro from the USA, making a small to medium shrub, about 1.5m high and wide. Flowers are a lovely combo of soft yellowish-cream petals, backed by dusky, brick-red calyces, and are seen throughout summer. One of the hardiest varieties, though best sited sensibly for most of us, preferably with wall shelter. A hybrid of A. megapotamicum.
A new Pan-Global' intro from the USA, making a small to medium shrub, about 1.5m high and wide. Flowers are a lovely combo of soft yellowish-cream petals, backed by dusky, brick-red calyces, and are seen throughout summer. One of the hardiest varieties, though best sited sensibly for most of us, preferably with wall shelter. A hybrid of A. megapotamicum.
Abutilon 'Orange Hot Lava'
A new intro from the USA, this is a superb A. megapotamicum hybrid forming a compact multistemmed plant approx' 1m or more high. A mass of orange bells, net-veined in red and with a prominent brick-red calyx, are produced over a long period from July until frosts. Hardy with the shelter of a warm wall.
A new intro from the USA, this is a superb A. megapotamicum hybrid forming a compact multistemmed plant approx' 1m or more high. A mass of orange bells, net-veined in red and with a prominent brick-red calyx, are produced over a long period from July until frosts. Hardy with the shelter of a warm wall.
Abutilon 'Patrick Synge'
A vigorous hybrid potentially reaching about 3m on a sheltered wall. Attractive green foliage provides a good backing to the sumptuously coloured, dangling, party dress shaped flowers; seen over a long period. Petals are a glowing red-orange with a deep purple-red interior, backed by a soft, matt, red-brown calyx. Survived Jan 09 outside here!
A vigorous hybrid potentially reaching about 3m on a sheltered wall. Attractive green foliage provides a good backing to the sumptuously coloured, dangling, party dress shaped flowers; seen over a long period. Petals are a glowing red-orange with a deep purple-red interior, backed by a soft, matt, red-brown calyx. Survived Jan 09 outside here!
Acacia boormanii
Snowy River Wattle. A most lovely species and fairly hardy too. Foliage on this one is a feathery mass of very, very narrow linear grey-green leaves (phyllodes). Makes a large shrub, covered in panicles of scented, lemon-yellow mimosa flowers in early spring. Worthy of a sheltered location. Very rarely offered in the UK.
Snowy River Wattle. A most lovely species and fairly hardy too. Foliage on this one is a feathery mass of very, very narrow linear grey-green leaves (phyllodes). Makes a large shrub, covered in panicles of scented, lemon-yellow mimosa flowers in early spring. Worthy of a sheltered location. Very rarely offered in the UK.
Acacia caven
An obscure, fast growing little tree from the drier areas of various S. American countries. The evergreen to semi-deciduous bipinnate foliage is extremely fine and feathery and a mass of deep yellow, highly fragrant flowers are produced in spring. I've seen this is in Chile in semi-arid conditions, though a tree at Kew grew well for years outside the old Alpine house.
An obscure, fast growing little tree from the drier areas of various S. American countries. The evergreen to semi-deciduous bipinnate foliage is extremely fine and feathery and a mass of deep yellow, highly fragrant flowers are produced in spring. I've seen this is in Chile in semi-arid conditions, though a tree at Kew grew well for years outside the old Alpine house.
Acca sellowiana
The Pineapple guava from Brazil and Uruguay makes a large evergreen shrub, best suited to a sunny wall, with grey-green leaves, white-hairy beneath. Thick textured exotic looking flowers are composed of crimson and white petals and a central boss of long crimson stamens. After long hot summers large egg shaped fruit are borne. Both petals and fruit are delicious.
The Pineapple guava from Brazil and Uruguay makes a large evergreen shrub, best suited to a sunny wall, with grey-green leaves, white-hairy beneath. Thick textured exotic looking flowers are composed of crimson and white petals and a central boss of long crimson stamens. After long hot summers large egg shaped fruit are borne. Both petals and fruit are delicious.
Aralia aff. chinensis
Originally collected on Emei Shan, Sichuan, China, this is a very spiny, tall suckering shrub or small tree. The erect, particularly dark, viciously armed stems are topped by huge bipinnate foliage over 1m long and large panicles of creamy flowers in Aug/Sept, followed by dark purple fruit. Looks great with bamboo etc…
Originally collected on Emei Shan, Sichuan, China, this is a very spiny, tall suckering shrub or small tree. The erect, particularly dark, viciously armed stems are topped by huge bipinnate foliage over 1m long and large panicles of creamy flowers in Aug/Sept, followed by dark purple fruit. Looks great with bamboo etc…
Araucaria angustifolia
A 'Monkey Puzzle' relative from cool highland areas of S Brazil, which eventually has a most unique and highly ornamental crown shape. This rarity has definite potential in milder gardens of the British Isles and is known to possess a fair degree of hardiness, as was seen with the specimen at Nymans in inland Sussex. Sheltered spot required.
A 'Monkey Puzzle' relative from cool highland areas of S Brazil, which eventually has a most unique and highly ornamental crown shape. This rarity has definite potential in milder gardens of the British Isles and is known to possess a fair degree of hardiness, as was seen with the specimen at Nymans in inland Sussex. Sheltered spot required.
Arbutus unedo 'Atlantic'
A relatively new form of the strawberry tree selected for its profuse flowering and fruiting. As usual this will make a large, dense, gnarled evergreen shrub or small tree with shredding bark, bearing its clusters of white flowers and fruits in autumn. Despite what just about everyone says, I find a ripe fruit rather tasty. For any well drained acid or alkaline soil.
A relatively new form of the strawberry tree selected for its profuse flowering and fruiting. As usual this will make a large, dense, gnarled evergreen shrub or small tree with shredding bark, bearing its clusters of white flowers and fruits in autumn. Despite what just about everyone says, I find a ripe fruit rather tasty. For any well drained acid or alkaline soil.
Betula szechuanica W983
Not often seen, this species from SW China and SE Tibet has glossy blue-green foliage and chalk-white bark. Makes a fast growing medium sized tree, suitable as a alternative to the excellent B. utilis var. jacquemontii, when you've tired of seeing it in just about every hospital car-park etc. This is a genuine Ernest Wilson collection, propagated vegetatively.
Not often seen, this species from SW China and SE Tibet has glossy blue-green foliage and chalk-white bark. Makes a fast growing medium sized tree, suitable as a alternative to the excellent B. utilis var. jacquemontii, when you've tired of seeing it in just about every hospital car-park etc. This is a genuine Ernest Wilson collection, propagated vegetatively.
Betula utilis var. jacquemontii 'Ramdana River'
A relatively new selection of the Himalayan white birch from Kenneth Ashburner's National collection, considered a very fine form by him. Particularly white bark, even on young trees, and glossy green foliage. Especially good planted in groups.
A relatively new selection of the Himalayan white birch from Kenneth Ashburner's National collection, considered a very fine form by him. Particularly white bark, even on young trees, and glossy green foliage. Especially good planted in groups.
Buddleja salviifolia
A splendid evergreen species from South Africa proven hardy here over many years. As the name suggests the foliage on this one is rather sage-like, covered as it is in close, fine hairs. New growth is a most lovely cream-beige. A large shrub showing terminal heads of lilac-blue, sweetly scented flowers in spring. Wonderful.
A splendid evergreen species from South Africa proven hardy here over many years. As the name suggests the foliage on this one is rather sage-like, covered as it is in close, fine hairs. New growth is a most lovely cream-beige. A large shrub showing terminal heads of lilac-blue, sweetly scented flowers in spring. Wonderful.
Carpinus stipulata
A recent introduction from China, making a small, deciduous, dainty tree with relatively small foliage. Reaching 4 to 8m in height. From Gansu, Hubei and Shaanxi Provinces.
A recent introduction from China, making a small, deciduous, dainty tree with relatively small foliage. Reaching 4 to 8m in height. From Gansu, Hubei and Shaanxi Provinces.
Cercis canadensis 'Flame'
A double flowered form of the North American Redbud, or Judas Tree as we call the genus here. Forms a small tree, covered in mid-pink double pea flowers on the bare branches in spring. Handsome heart shaped foliage. Bone hardy and suited to all normal soils.
A double flowered form of the North American Redbud, or Judas Tree as we call the genus here. Forms a small tree, covered in mid-pink double pea flowers on the bare branches in spring. Handsome heart shaped foliage. Bone hardy and suited to all normal soils.
Cercis chingii
A virtually unknown, but easily grown, Chinese species. Particularly floriferous, with vivid pink flowers covering the bare branches in spring and apparently the earliest species to flower. This will make a small hardy tree for a sunny position. Closely related to C. chinensis.
A virtually unknown, but easily grown, Chinese species. Particularly floriferous, with vivid pink flowers covering the bare branches in spring and apparently the earliest species to flower. This will make a small hardy tree for a sunny position. Closely related to C. chinensis.
Cistus x aguilarii 'Maculatus'
An old classic sun rose of upright form, reaching about 1.5m or sometimes more. Big white flowers, with a ring of perfectly formed deep wine-red markings at the base of each petal, are seen in early summer. The evergreen foliage is handsome in itself, narrow with an undulating edge. A great plant for sunny well drained positions in unamended soil.
An old classic sun rose of upright form, reaching about 1.5m or sometimes more. Big white flowers, with a ring of perfectly formed deep wine-red markings at the base of each petal, are seen in early summer. The evergreen foliage is handsome in itself, narrow with an undulating edge. A great plant for sunny well drained positions in unamended soil.
Clethra fargesii
A medium to large deciduous shrub from central China, grown particularly for its beautiful scented white flowers, produced in panicles up to 25cm long in July. Excellent yellow autumn colour. For lime free soil
A medium to large deciduous shrub from central China, grown particularly for its beautiful scented white flowers, produced in panicles up to 25cm long in July. Excellent yellow autumn colour. For lime free soil
Cornus hongkongensis subsp. melanotricha
New on the scene, this evergreen flowering dogwood hails from SW China and forms a small tree. Glossy dark green foliage flushes with a bronze tint and creamy-white C. kousa-like flowers are seen en-masse in July. This species enjoys heat and moisture. Very successful at The Hillier Gardens, Hampshire.
New on the scene, this evergreen flowering dogwood hails from SW China and forms a small tree. Glossy dark green foliage flushes with a bronze tint and creamy-white C. kousa-like flowers are seen en-masse in July. This species enjoys heat and moisture. Very successful at The Hillier Gardens, Hampshire.
Daphne x transatlantica 'Eternal Fragrance'
A rather superb new hybrid with an incredible flowering period, from April to October. A small semi-evergreen shrub, 60cm x 60cm, with clusters of very sweetly fragrant, cream flowers opening from softest-pink flushed buds en-masse in spring. After growth gets under way the flowers are again produced on the current seasons growth until autumn. Sun or semi-shade.
A rather superb new hybrid with an incredible flowering period, from April to October. A small semi-evergreen shrub, 60cm x 60cm, with clusters of very sweetly fragrant, cream flowers opening from softest-pink flushed buds en-masse in spring. After growth gets under way the flowers are again produced on the current seasons growth until autumn. Sun or semi-shade.
Deutzia 'Iris Alford'
A relatively new hybrid, raised at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, making a small deciduous shrub with roughly hairy leaves and clusters of comparatively large flowers in summer; deep purple-pink in bud, opening white inside, deep purple-pink on the reverse, the petals with white margins. Tough, easy, hardy. For any ordinary soil in sun or semi-shade.
A relatively new hybrid, raised at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, making a small deciduous shrub with roughly hairy leaves and clusters of comparatively large flowers in summer; deep purple-pink in bud, opening white inside, deep purple-pink on the reverse, the petals with white margins. Tough, easy, hardy. For any ordinary soil in sun or semi-shade.
Deutzia compacta 'Lavender Time'
A Kingdon-Ward collection from China and most distinct. In this form of this low growing species the flowers, borne in clusters in midsummer, are lilac at first, turning to pale lavender. A hardy small, deciduous shrub for sun or semi shade. Any ordinary soil.
A Kingdon-Ward collection from China and most distinct. In this form of this low growing species the flowers, borne in clusters in midsummer, are lilac at first, turning to pale lavender. A hardy small, deciduous shrub for sun or semi shade. Any ordinary soil.
Deutzia x hybrida 'Jaconde'
A highly regarded strong growing deciduous shrub with very large flowers, lined and shaded purple on the outside in early summer. Tough and easy in sun or semi-shade
A highly regarded strong growing deciduous shrub with very large flowers, lined and shaded purple on the outside in early summer. Tough and easy in sun or semi-shade
Edgeworthia chrysantha
A Daphne relative from China making a small to medium, rounded, deciduous shrub up to about 1.5m tall. Densely clustered, scented, yellow flowers in nodding heads at the tips of the naked branches in late winter or early spring. Each individual flower is clothed on the outside with silvery silky hairs. A beautiful plant for any reasonable, well drained soil.
A Daphne relative from China making a small to medium, rounded, deciduous shrub up to about 1.5m tall. Densely clustered, scented, yellow flowers in nodding heads at the tips of the naked branches in late winter or early spring. Each individual flower is clothed on the outside with silvery silky hairs. A beautiful plant for any reasonable, well drained soil.
Enkianthus perulatus
Famed for its very reliable, intense scarlet autumn colour, this slow growing, hardy, densely branched deciduous shrub to 2m high is also bedecked with a multitude of drooping, white, urn shaped flowers in spring, as the leaves emerge. A Japanese member of the Ericaceae for lime free soil. AGM
Famed for its very reliable, intense scarlet autumn colour, this slow growing, hardy, densely branched deciduous shrub to 2m high is also bedecked with a multitude of drooping, white, urn shaped flowers in spring, as the leaves emerge. A Japanese member of the Ericaceae for lime free soil. AGM
Euonymus fortunei 'Wolong Ghost'
A fine new form of this ubiquitous evergreen, collected by Dan Hinkley in China. Unlike so many of the garishly coloured selections of this species, this one has simple, very narrow, darkest green foliage with highly contrasting brilliant white veins. This makes a very effective ground cover in shade (or sun) but will eventually start to climb with maturity, like an ivy.
A fine new form of this ubiquitous evergreen, collected by Dan Hinkley in China. Unlike so many of the garishly coloured selections of this species, this one has simple, very narrow, darkest green foliage with highly contrasting brilliant white veins. This makes a very effective ground cover in shade (or sun) but will eventually start to climb with maturity, like an ivy.
Euonymus lucidus
From low-ish altitudes in the Himalaya, this species enjoys a sheltered position in the garden, where it will make a large evergreen shrub or small tree, notable for the wonderful colours of the emerging new foliage. On expansion the leaves are rich red, turning to pinky-orange and finally to a deep polished green.
From low-ish altitudes in the Himalaya, this species enjoys a sheltered position in the garden, where it will make a large evergreen shrub or small tree, notable for the wonderful colours of the emerging new foliage. On expansion the leaves are rich red, turning to pinky-orange and finally to a deep polished green.
Ficus carica 'Osborn's Prolific'
This hardy fig variety is a proven good do-er in cool summer areas such as the UK and bears a heavy crop of deliciously sweet bronze to red-brown fruit with an amber to light strawberry pink flesh. Better crops are to be had on a warm wall, but fine as an open grown small tree in the south. Can be pruned annually to keep it small or fan trained flat on a wall.
This hardy fig variety is a proven good do-er in cool summer areas such as the UK and bears a heavy crop of deliciously sweet bronze to red-brown fruit with an amber to light strawberry pink flesh. Better crops are to be had on a warm wall, but fine as an open grown small tree in the south. Can be pruned annually to keep it small or fan trained flat on a wall.
Ficus carica 'White Marseille'
A very fine fig for UK outdoor culture, easily producing large crops of very sweet, large, yellow green, pear shaped fruit with white flesh. This is what is known as a 'honey fig' with less of a 'figgy' taste. Very successful in the garden here. Suitable for walls or freestanding, but better crops are obtained with the heat of a sunny wall.
A very fine fig for UK outdoor culture, easily producing large crops of very sweet, large, yellow green, pear shaped fruit with white flesh. This is what is known as a 'honey fig' with less of a 'figgy' taste. Very successful in the garden here. Suitable for walls or freestanding, but better crops are obtained with the heat of a sunny wall.
Franklinia alatamaha
A famous camellia relative from the S.E. USA, not now known in the wild. A large hardy, deciduous shrub with oblong, shining green leaves, turning to crimson in autumn. The cup shaped stewartia-like white flowers are seen in autumn, but only after a hot summer. Best sited in a warm position at it thrives on summer heat.
A famous camellia relative from the S.E. USA, not now known in the wild. A large hardy, deciduous shrub with oblong, shining green leaves, turning to crimson in autumn. The cup shaped stewartia-like white flowers are seen in autumn, but only after a hot summer. Best sited in a warm position at it thrives on summer heat.
Fremontodendron 'Tequila Sunrise'
For all those that are bored of, and/or couldn't stand the colour of 'California Glory', this one might very well tickle your fancy. Flowers are a mix of orange and yellow, with the former getting the upper hand, and are seen continuously through summer. As usual this is best on a warm sunny wall in well drained soil, where it will make a large evergreen shrub.
For all those that are bored of, and/or couldn't stand the colour of 'California Glory', this one might very well tickle your fancy. Flowers are a mix of orange and yellow, with the former getting the upper hand, and are seen continuously through summer. As usual this is best on a warm sunny wall in well drained soil, where it will make a large evergreen shrub.
Gardenia jasminoides 'Kleim's Hardy'
Whether this is actually truly hardy or not in the UK climate is irrelevant once you have smelled the beautiful white flowers of this small evergreen shrub. Divine is a word that wouldn't be OTT in this case and they come in succession for weeks during summer. Reported to have come through the -10c of Jan 09. You will never be sad you bought this.
Whether this is actually truly hardy or not in the UK climate is irrelevant once you have smelled the beautiful white flowers of this small evergreen shrub. Divine is a word that wouldn't be OTT in this case and they come in succession for weeks during summer. Reported to have come through the -10c of Jan 09. You will never be sad you bought this.
Helwingia chinensis
One of only 3 members of the Helwingiaceae, this Chinese species is rather similar to the even rarer H. himalaica. Forming a vigorous evergreen shrub to about 2m with rather attractive, glossy, willow like foliage, emerging coppery-red and edged with small teeth. Green purple flowers open in the centre of the leaf (!) in summer, followed by black fruit. Hardy.
One of only 3 members of the Helwingiaceae, this Chinese species is rather similar to the even rarer H. himalaica. Forming a vigorous evergreen shrub to about 2m with rather attractive, glossy, willow like foliage, emerging coppery-red and edged with small teeth. Green purple flowers open in the centre of the leaf (!) in summer, followed by black fruit. Hardy.
Hydrangea 'Garden House Glory'
A brand new Mark Fillan hybrid, first released here. A cross between H. macrophylla and H. serrata, this makes a small shrub to about 1.3m, wider than tall. Foliage emerges red tinted and gives excellent autumn colour. The flowers are a glowing red and of lacecap form. Happy in sun or semi-shade and very hardy.
A brand new Mark Fillan hybrid, first released here. A cross between H. macrophylla and H. serrata, this makes a small shrub to about 1.3m, wider than tall. Foliage emerges red tinted and gives excellent autumn colour. The flowers are a glowing red and of lacecap form. Happy in sun or semi-shade and very hardy.
Hydrangea 'Mirai'
Although appearing to be an H. macrophylla, this is actually a hybrid with H. serrata. Makes a low bushy plant to about 1m high, bearing densely packed mopheads composed of white florets with conspicuous red margins. The H. serrata parent is 'Kiyosumi'. Enjoys a half shaded position.
Although appearing to be an H. macrophylla, this is actually a hybrid with H. serrata. Makes a low bushy plant to about 1m high, bearing densely packed mopheads composed of white florets with conspicuous red margins. The H. serrata parent is 'Kiyosumi'. Enjoys a half shaded position.
Hydrangea arborescens 'Haye's Starburst'
New on the scene, this was discovered in Alabama. A fully double flowered, sterile form of this very hardy species. Large heads of creamy-white starry sepals in summer on a plant to about 1.8m high.
New on the scene, this was discovered in Alabama. A fully double flowered, sterile form of this very hardy species. Large heads of creamy-white starry sepals in summer on a plant to about 1.8m high.
Hydrangea heteromalla 'Bretschneideri'
A more manageable form of the species; in this form making only a medium sized shrub. Masses of wide, flat, white lacecaps in July and distinctive chestnut-brown exfoliating bark. Very tough, being happy in full exposure.
A more manageable form of the species; in this form making only a medium sized shrub. Masses of wide, flat, white lacecaps in July and distinctive chestnut-brown exfoliating bark. Very tough, being happy in full exposure.
Hydrangea paniculata 'Dart's Little Dot'
A most dwarf form of the species, making a rounded little shrub to about 1m high. Open flower panicles, with an even distribution of sterile and fertile florets, start white and turn pink, being produced over a long period from July to late September. No need to prune this one.
A most dwarf form of the species, making a rounded little shrub to about 1m high. Open flower panicles, with an even distribution of sterile and fertile florets, start white and turn pink, being produced over a long period from July to late September. No need to prune this one.
Hydrangea paniculata 'Papillon'
A scarce new form of the species with creamy white flower heads; the sterile florets individually spaced around the fertile flowers; like dancing butterflies one would suspect. Makes a large spreading shrub. Can be hard pruned in spring to produce strong stems with huge panicles of flower. Very tough and tolerant. A de Belder selection from Belgium.
A scarce new form of the species with creamy white flower heads; the sterile florets individually spaced around the fertile flowers; like dancing butterflies one would suspect. Makes a large spreading shrub. Can be hard pruned in spring to produce strong stems with huge panicles of flower. Very tough and tolerant. A de Belder selection from Belgium.
Hydrangea paniculata 'Vanille Fraise'
A fine new form, held in very high regard by the RHS after their recent H. paniculata trial. Big conical heads of white flowers in late summer that very quickly turn to a rich pink from the bottom up, creating a bicolour effect. Can be very hard pruned yearly, but flowers can flop under the weight of themselves if treated this way, so best grown as a more natural large shrub.
A fine new form, held in very high regard by the RHS after their recent H. paniculata trial. Big conical heads of white flowers in late summer that very quickly turn to a rich pink from the bottom up, creating a bicolour effect. Can be very hard pruned yearly, but flowers can flop under the weight of themselves if treated this way, so best grown as a more natural large shrub.
Juniperus procera
A recent collection from the mountains of Kenya, this is the largest growing Juniper in the world and makes a mighty tree in the montane forests of East Africa, though no doubt much smaller here. Of great rarity in cultivation, it has proven a success so far in a few gardens in Cornwall and Ireland. Try this in similar areas, or test for hardiness elsewhere!
A recent collection from the mountains of Kenya, this is the largest growing Juniper in the world and makes a mighty tree in the montane forests of East Africa, though no doubt much smaller here. Of great rarity in cultivation, it has proven a success so far in a few gardens in Cornwall and Ireland. Try this in similar areas, or test for hardiness elsewhere!
Magnolia campbellii 'Darjeeling'
A highly desirable clone of Indian origin, the sumptuous flowers are a vivid deep winey-pink. As with other M. campbellii, this will need a position away from cold frost pockets to avoid frozen flowers. Potentially a medium to large tree.
A highly desirable clone of Indian origin, the sumptuous flowers are a vivid deep winey-pink. As with other M. campbellii, this will need a position away from cold frost pockets to avoid frozen flowers. Potentially a medium to large tree.
Magnolia campbellii subsp. mollicomata 'Lanarth'
A most desirable member of the tree Magnolias, this Cornish selection has very large flowers of a most distinctive cyclamen-purple-pink, with darker stamens borne on the bare branches in early spring. Quite distinct among mollicomatas, this form has large flower buds and broader foliage.
A most desirable member of the tree Magnolias, this Cornish selection has very large flowers of a most distinctive cyclamen-purple-pink, with darker stamens borne on the bare branches in early spring. Quite distinct among mollicomatas, this form has large flower buds and broader foliage.
Magnolia campbellii subsp. mollicomata Large flowered
A selection of this famous tree magnolia with particularly large flowers. The subsp. mollicomata generally flowers later in the spring than typical M. campbellii, so escaping many frosts, and is suitable for planting widely across the UK. Large pink cup and saucer flowers on the bare branches in spring. These are grafted plants, flowering within a few years.
A selection of this famous tree magnolia with particularly large flowers. The subsp. mollicomata generally flowers later in the spring than typical M. campbellii, so escaping many frosts, and is suitable for planting widely across the UK. Large pink cup and saucer flowers on the bare branches in spring. These are grafted plants, flowering within a few years.
Magnolia macrophylla subsp. ashei
This is the smaller growing wild form of the Big Leaf Magnolia from the S.E. USA, which makes a large shrub with fabulously big, papery foliage, white on the underside and typically huge, maroon-blotched, fragrant white flowers in summer. This subspecies. flowers at a young age. At its best with some shelter for the huge leaves, though very hardy.
This is the smaller growing wild form of the Big Leaf Magnolia from the S.E. USA, which makes a large shrub with fabulously big, papery foliage, white on the underside and typically huge, maroon-blotched, fragrant white flowers in summer. This subspecies. flowers at a young age. At its best with some shelter for the huge leaves, though very hardy.
Michelia doltsopa - small leaf form
A most unusual small leaved form of this delightful evergreen tree. Deliciously and powerfully scented white flowers in spring emerge from rusty-ginger, hairy buds. Leaves are leathery, glossy green with a glaucous underside. For a warm sheltered position, such as a woodland glade or wall. (now known correctly as Magnolia doltsopa).
A most unusual small leaved form of this delightful evergreen tree. Deliciously and powerfully scented white flowers in spring emerge from rusty-ginger, hairy buds. Leaves are leathery, glossy green with a glaucous underside. For a warm sheltered position, such as a woodland glade or wall. (now known correctly as Magnolia doltsopa).
Olearia x scilloniensis 'Master Michael'
A particularly free flowering hybrid with absolutely masses of mauve-blue daisy flowers in May over a compact, evergreen, grey leaved shrub to about 2m high. This requires a sheltered position away from exceptionally cold temperatures, though I grew it in Stroud, Glos. for a number of years without harm. AGM
A particularly free flowering hybrid with absolutely masses of mauve-blue daisy flowers in May over a compact, evergreen, grey leaved shrub to about 2m high. This requires a sheltered position away from exceptionally cold temperatures, though I grew it in Stroud, Glos. for a number of years without harm. AGM
Ostrya carpinifolia
From southern Europe and western Asia comes the Hop hornbeam. Related to the hazels, this hardy deciduous tree makes a medium sized rounded crown; the bare branches strung in spring with long, pendulous male catkins. The hornbeam-like foliage turns to clear yellow in autumn. The whole tree eventually becomes rather picturesque in form.
From southern Europe and western Asia comes the Hop hornbeam. Related to the hazels, this hardy deciduous tree makes a medium sized rounded crown; the bare branches strung in spring with long, pendulous male catkins. The hornbeam-like foliage turns to clear yellow in autumn. The whole tree eventually becomes rather picturesque in form.
Philadelphus microphyllus
A dwarf species of Mock Orange from the SW USA with very small leaves, covered in June/July with a mass of small, white, heavily scented flowers. A very pretty species that should be more widely grown. Height to about 1m. Drought tolerant and well suited to drier gardens where it will combine well with other dry climate shrubs, perennials and grasses.
A dwarf species of Mock Orange from the SW USA with very small leaves, covered in June/July with a mass of small, white, heavily scented flowers. A very pretty species that should be more widely grown. Height to about 1m. Drought tolerant and well suited to drier gardens where it will combine well with other dry climate shrubs, perennials and grasses.
Quercus canariensis - from Andalucia
A recent collection of this impressive oak from near Jimena de la Frontera, Spain, where hybridity with other species like Q. faginea can be common. This batch, however, look very uniform. This will make a hardy medium to large evergreen tree of full, rounded form, with deeply fissured bark, the leaves with shallow, forward pointing lobes.
A recent collection of this impressive oak from near Jimena de la Frontera, Spain, where hybridity with other species like Q. faginea can be common. This batch, however, look very uniform. This will make a hardy medium to large evergreen tree of full, rounded form, with deeply fissured bark, the leaves with shallow, forward pointing lobes.
Quercus dentata 'Carl Ferris Miller'
The Daimio oak from the Far East has spectacularly outsize foliage, superficially similar in form to our common oak, but many times the size on well grown trees. The twigs are very stout and plants can colour well in autumn, often with reds and oranges. This form, collected in Korea, performs very well in N. Europe. Usually a small to medium sized tree in this country.
The Daimio oak from the Far East has spectacularly outsize foliage, superficially similar in form to our common oak, but many times the size on well grown trees. The twigs are very stout and plants can colour well in autumn, often with reds and oranges. This form, collected in Korea, performs very well in N. Europe. Usually a small to medium sized tree in this country.
Quercus rotundifolia
A very rarely seen oak from the mountains of S Spain and North Africa. It forms a sturdy, domed, medium sized evergreen tree in the wild, the foliage being rounded and spiny and quite glaucous in most specimens. Very drought tolerant, and closely related to the Holm Oak, Q. ilex. A recent Mark Fillan collection from Andalucia, Spain. Hardy.
A very rarely seen oak from the mountains of S Spain and North Africa. It forms a sturdy, domed, medium sized evergreen tree in the wild, the foliage being rounded and spiny and quite glaucous in most specimens. Very drought tolerant, and closely related to the Holm Oak, Q. ilex. A recent Mark Fillan collection from Andalucia, Spain. Hardy.
Rehderodendron macrocarpum
A most desirable, beautiful and rarely available Styrax relative from China. A small tree for neutral to acid soil bearing pendent clusters of softly fragrant, cup-shaped, slightly pink tinged white flowers with conspicuous exserted yellow anthers in May. Cocktail sausage sized, ribbed, bright red, dangling fruit hang from the branches in autumn. Foliage tinted in autumn.
A most desirable, beautiful and rarely available Styrax relative from China. A small tree for neutral to acid soil bearing pendent clusters of softly fragrant, cup-shaped, slightly pink tinged white flowers with conspicuous exserted yellow anthers in May. Cocktail sausage sized, ribbed, bright red, dangling fruit hang from the branches in autumn. Foliage tinted in autumn.
Rhaphiolepis x delacourii 'Coates' Crimson'
A Californian selection of this evergreen member of the rose family. Makes a dense rounded, slow growing shrub up to about 2m high eventually, with glossy green foliage topped by erect panicles of rose-crimson flowers in spring-summer. For a warm sunny position. Usually perfectly hardy, but best against a wall in cold areas.
A Californian selection of this evergreen member of the rose family. Makes a dense rounded, slow growing shrub up to about 2m high eventually, with glossy green foliage topped by erect panicles of rose-crimson flowers in spring-summer. For a warm sunny position. Usually perfectly hardy, but best against a wall in cold areas.
Ruscus aculeatus 'Wheeler's Variety'
'Butchers Broom'. This is a larger growing, hermaphrodite form, bearing fruit without the need of male plants. A very tough, spiny-leaved, extremely shade and drought tolerant, bushy evergreen shrub, reaching about 1m. Berries resembling bright red cherries, often abundantly produced. Tolerant of both acid and alkaline soil, deep shade and sun.
'Butchers Broom'. This is a larger growing, hermaphrodite form, bearing fruit without the need of male plants. A very tough, spiny-leaved, extremely shade and drought tolerant, bushy evergreen shrub, reaching about 1m. Berries resembling bright red cherries, often abundantly produced. Tolerant of both acid and alkaline soil, deep shade and sun.
Schefflera sp.
An unidentified species of this most desirable genus of evergreen shrubs or small trees. These are propagated from a tree in an inland Devon garden where it has proved very hardy, even through the winters of 2008/9 and 2009/10. Foliage is variably lobed on young plants, but less so as it matures. Makes a large shrub of exotic appearance.
An unidentified species of this most desirable genus of evergreen shrubs or small trees. These are propagated from a tree in an inland Devon garden where it has proved very hardy, even through the winters of 2008/9 and 2009/10. Foliage is variably lobed on young plants, but less so as it matures. Makes a large shrub of exotic appearance.
Sorbus esserteauana
A fine rowan from western China, forming a small tree with an open crown, causing only light shade. Flattened heads of white flowers in spring over dark green pinnate foliage, downy-grey beneath, followed by dense, broad clusters of scarlet berries late in the season. Good autumn colour, hardy and easy.
A fine rowan from western China, forming a small tree with an open crown, causing only light shade. Flattened heads of white flowers in spring over dark green pinnate foliage, downy-grey beneath, followed by dense, broad clusters of scarlet berries late in the season. Good autumn colour, hardy and easy.
Taxodium mucronatum NJM 09.037
The wonderful Mexican Swamp Cypress which is such a fabulously charismatic tree in the wild where it forms a more weeping habit than its American cousin and trees of vast sizes can be found. Here in Britain it needs protection when young but attains hardiness as it grows. Kew has a 100yr old specimen. I would recommend a warm site in ordinary soil.
The wonderful Mexican Swamp Cypress which is such a fabulously charismatic tree in the wild where it forms a more weeping habit than its American cousin and trees of vast sizes can be found. Here in Britain it needs protection when young but attains hardiness as it grows. Kew has a 100yr old specimen. I would recommend a warm site in ordinary soil.
Herbaceous & Bulbous
Aconitum nagarum KR 7589
A fine Keith Rushforth collection from Yunnan, China. A handsome stocky monkshood species, with dark blue flowers on red tinted stems over grey-green thick textured foliage. Up to 1m high, but sometimes smaller. Toxic if eaten, so why would you?
A fine Keith Rushforth collection from Yunnan, China. A handsome stocky monkshood species, with dark blue flowers on red tinted stems over grey-green thick textured foliage. Up to 1m high, but sometimes smaller. Toxic if eaten, so why would you?
Actaea simplex 'Mountain Wave'
Red tinged leaves, with 1.5m tall spikes of rather wavy scented white flowers in late summer. Part shade and not too dry.
Red tinged leaves, with 1.5m tall spikes of rather wavy scented white flowers in late summer. Part shade and not too dry.
Arum italicum 'Marmoratum' Large form
A beefier form of this classic, with attractive pale veined leaves autumn to spring. Creamy spathes in summer followed by orange berries in late summer. Sun or part shade.
A beefier form of this classic, with attractive pale veined leaves autumn to spring. Creamy spathes in summer followed by orange berries in late summer. Sun or part shade.
Bergenia pacumbis CC3616
Dense heads of pale pink flowers in early spring. Hairy-fringed leaves become very large and glossy deep green, much like a virtually hairless B. ciliata. Height 30cm. Light shade.
Dense heads of pale pink flowers in early spring. Hairy-fringed leaves become very large and glossy deep green, much like a virtually hairless B. ciliata. Height 30cm. Light shade.
Cardiandra moellendorffii
An herbaceous hydrangea relative from China, forming a clumping perennial with delicate brick-pink lacecap flowers in late summer and autumn. For a humus rich soil in a wind sheltered position. Approx 50cm high.
An herbaceous hydrangea relative from China, forming a clumping perennial with delicate brick-pink lacecap flowers in late summer and autumn. For a humus rich soil in a wind sheltered position. Approx 50cm high.
Dahlia coccinea F&M 261
A wild source collection of this widespread Mexican species, from Hidalgo State. From this location flowers can be quite large and are generally a rich glowing red. Will be fairly hardy over winter given a deep mulch. Up to about 2m.
A wild source collection of this widespread Mexican species, from Hidalgo State. From this location flowers can be quite large and are generally a rich glowing red. Will be fairly hardy over winter given a deep mulch. Up to about 2m.
Dahlia coccinea F&M 293
Seed for these was found in San Luis Potosi State in Mexico, where they were growing in semi-arid conditions with Agave salmiana and Yucca filifera. Plants reached approx' 2m high in full sun. Flowers seen so far are rich red. Will be fairly hardy over winter given a deep mulch.
Seed for these was found in San Luis Potosi State in Mexico, where they were growing in semi-arid conditions with Agave salmiana and Yucca filifera. Plants reached approx' 2m high in full sun. Flowers seen so far are rich red. Will be fairly hardy over winter given a deep mulch.
Dahlia imperialis Double flowered
Sometimes named, erroneously, Dahlia excelsa, this is in fact a fully double flowered form of the giant mother of all Dahlia, D. imperialis. As the normal form, this has a potential of reaching 4m tall, though to flower outside before the first frosts in the UK you will need a very warm sheltered position. Offered here for the first time in the UK.
Sometimes named, erroneously, Dahlia excelsa, this is in fact a fully double flowered form of the giant mother of all Dahlia, D. imperialis. As the normal form, this has a potential of reaching 4m tall, though to flower outside before the first frosts in the UK you will need a very warm sheltered position. Offered here for the first time in the UK.
Echinacea 'Pixie Meadowbrite'
Large, strong pink daisies on a compact floriferous plant reaching 50cm at most. Survives better than most! Sunny position.
Large, strong pink daisies on a compact floriferous plant reaching 50cm at most. Survives better than most! Sunny position.
Echinacea pallida
An excellent compact plant, propagated vegetatively. Reflexed, narrow, deep pink rays. Greyish narrow leaves. 50cm. Hot, well drained position.
An excellent compact plant, propagated vegetatively. Reflexed, narrow, deep pink rays. Greyish narrow leaves. 50cm. Hot, well drained position.
Epimedium 'Amanogawa'
Many large flowers; white bracts, amber petals. Semi evergreen and a good do-er. 40cm. For humus rich soil in shade.
Many large flowers; white bracts, amber petals. Semi evergreen and a good do-er. 40cm. For humus rich soil in shade.
Epimedium 'Golden Eagle'
Good sized light yellow spurred petals with contrasting paler bracts in late spring. Height 40cm. Humus rich soil in some shade.
Good sized light yellow spurred petals with contrasting paler bracts in late spring. Height 40cm. Humus rich soil in some shade.
Epimedium 'Phoenix' (= Emperor)
Superb new evergreen hybrid. Rich purple flowers with white tipped spurs. Height 30cm. Humus rich soil in shade.
Superb new evergreen hybrid. Rich purple flowers with white tipped spurs. Height 30cm. Humus rich soil in shade.
Epimedium acuminatum 'Galaxy'
Large creamy white spurred flowers in spring. Evergreen. Height 30cm. Humus rich soil in shade.
Large creamy white spurred flowers in spring. Evergreen. Height 30cm. Humus rich soil in shade.
Epimedium grandiflorum 'Purple Prince'
Fine purple spurred flowers in spring. Delicate divided deciduous foliage. Height to 30cm. Humus rich acidic soil in shade.
Fine purple spurred flowers in spring. Delicate divided deciduous foliage. Height to 30cm. Humus rich acidic soil in shade.
Epimedium grandiflorum 'Saturn'
Large white spurred flowers over low, chocolate edged leaves in late spring. Height 15cm. Acidic, humus rich soil in shade. Deciduous.
Large white spurred flowers over low, chocolate edged leaves in late spring. Height 15cm. Acidic, humus rich soil in shade. Deciduous.
Epimedium leptorrhizum 'Mariko'
Exceptionally good, large flowers; light magenta sepals with white spurred petals. Height 30cm. For moist, but well drained soil in shade.
Exceptionally good, large flowers; light magenta sepals with white spurred petals. Height 30cm. For moist, but well drained soil in shade.
Epimedium pubescens Og 91.003
Large panicles of very many small white flowers in spring over particularly well marked new foliage, turning green later. For humusy semi-shade.
Large panicles of very many small white flowers in spring over particularly well marked new foliage, turning green later. For humusy semi-shade.
Epimedium sempervirens 'Okuda's White'
White flowers in spring. Like an evergreen E. grandiflorum. Height 25cm. For humus rich soil in light shade.
White flowers in spring. Like an evergreen E. grandiflorum. Height 25cm. For humus rich soil in light shade.
Euphorbia 'Blue Haze'
An excellent new hybrid. Narrow blue foliage and yellow flowers in summer on a compact 40cm plant. Sun. Prune back hard in August.
An excellent new hybrid. Narrow blue foliage and yellow flowers in summer on a compact 40cm plant. Sun. Prune back hard in August.
Geranium nodosum 'Whiteleaf'
Spreading species with rich purple, paler edged flowers over a long season. Sun or shade. Height 45cm.
Spreading species with rich purple, paler edged flowers over a long season. Sun or shade. Height 45cm.
Gladiolus papilio 'David Hills'
I'm unconvinced that this is actually a form of G. papilio, more likely a hybrid of it, but it is beautiful, hardy and more importantly, very different in colour. The hooded, nodding flowers are bright red with paler interiors and yellow throats and the foliage is typically glaucous. Flowering late summer at about 1m. Not too dry in the growing season please.
I'm unconvinced that this is actually a form of G. papilio, more likely a hybrid of it, but it is beautiful, hardy and more importantly, very different in colour. The hooded, nodding flowers are bright red with paler interiors and yellow throats and the foliage is typically glaucous. Flowering late summer at about 1m. Not too dry in the growing season please.
Helenium 'Red Jewel'
A good red variety. Shortish at around 75cm. Summer flowering. Sun or part shade.
A good red variety. Shortish at around 75cm. Summer flowering. Sun or part shade.
Helianthella quinquenervis
Large pale lemon daises in late summer to autumn. Clumps to 2m tall. Rather elegant. Sun or part shade.
Large pale lemon daises in late summer to autumn. Clumps to 2m tall. Rather elegant. Sun or part shade.
Impatiens puberula HWJK 2063
Purple flowers in summer over a branching mound of leaves to 30cm. Proving quite hardy. Winter dormant. Humusy shade.
Purple flowers in summer over a branching mound of leaves to 30cm. Proving quite hardy. Winter dormant. Humusy shade.
Impatiens uniflora
Pink flowers in late summer on a branching, spreading plant 20cm plant. Winter dormant. For humus rich soil in some shade.
Pink flowers in late summer on a branching, spreading plant 20cm plant. Winter dormant. For humus rich soil in some shade.
Kniphofia 'Lord Roberts'
Tall slender pokers with down swept flowers. Very elegant. Height to 2m. Sunny position.
Tall slender pokers with down swept flowers. Very elegant. Height to 2m. Sunny position.
Plectranthus excisus
A very uncommon hardy species with distinctive foliage and spikes of small lilac flowers to 1m high. Sun, reasonably drained. Winter dormant.
A very uncommon hardy species with distinctive foliage and spikes of small lilac flowers to 1m high. Sun, reasonably drained. Winter dormant.
Pleione formosana 'Snow White'
A beautiful easy little orchid with big white flowers in late winter before the leaves emerge. Overwinter dry-ish in a cold glasshouse or cool windowsill, place outside for the summer and keep moist. Clumps up very quickly to form potfuls. Height 10cm.
A beautiful easy little orchid with big white flowers in late winter before the leaves emerge. Overwinter dry-ish in a cold glasshouse or cool windowsill, place outside for the summer and keep moist. Clumps up very quickly to form potfuls. Height 10cm.
Polemonium yezoense 'Purple Rain'
A good clone with purple flushed leaves and violet flowers in early summer. Height to 75cm. Sun or part shade.
A good clone with purple flushed leaves and violet flowers in early summer. Height to 75cm. Sun or part shade.
Primula 'No Eye Cow'
One of my own selections. A very choice polyanthus with luscious deep red-brown velvety flowers with effectively no eye, in spring. Height 20cm. Sun or part shade.
One of my own selections. A very choice polyanthus with luscious deep red-brown velvety flowers with effectively no eye, in spring. Height 20cm. Sun or part shade.
Roscoea cautleyoides 'Long Acre Sunrise'
Soft yellow spring flowers on a short plant. One of the first to flower. Height 25cm. Sun or part shade. Not boggy in winter.
Soft yellow spring flowers on a short plant. One of the first to flower. Height 25cm. Sun or part shade. Not boggy in winter.
Salvia 'Black Knight'
Lovely rich, deep-mauve flowers on a 1.5m plant in autumn. May need some winter protection. Sunny sheltered position.
Lovely rich, deep-mauve flowers on a 1.5m plant in autumn. May need some winter protection. Sunny sheltered position.
Salvia 'Silke's Dream'
S. darcyi x S. microphylla. A twiggy sage with long spikes of orange-red flowers in late summer/autumn. Height 90cm. For a sunny, mild site.
S. darcyi x S. microphylla. A twiggy sage with long spikes of orange-red flowers in late summer/autumn. Height 90cm. For a sunny, mild site.
Salvia microphylla 'Rednick' F&M 157
A new form from Mexico with brilliantly vivid red flowers over a typically hugely long period in summer and autumn. Flowers are not as huge as some modern cultivars, but the intensity of colour is outstanding, being a striking, vivid, non-fading, vibrant crimson. Makes a low dense bush for a sunny, warm, well drained spot. Survived Jan 09 outside.
A new form from Mexico with brilliantly vivid red flowers over a typically hugely long period in summer and autumn. Flowers are not as huge as some modern cultivars, but the intensity of colour is outstanding, being a striking, vivid, non-fading, vibrant crimson. Makes a low dense bush for a sunny, warm, well drained spot. Survived Jan 09 outside.
Salvia pratensis 'Albiflora'
A beautiful hardy, uncommon herbaceous sage with white flowers in summer. Height 60cm. Sun.
A beautiful hardy, uncommon herbaceous sage with white flowers in summer. Height 60cm. Sun.
Sempervivum 'Red Delta'
Cobwebby rosettes of narrow red tinted leaves. Dusky pink flowers. Height 10cm in flower. Sunny position in lean soil.
Cobwebby rosettes of narrow red tinted leaves. Dusky pink flowers. Height 10cm in flower. Sunny position in lean soil.
Trifolium repens 'William'
A maroon leaved clover, making spreading patches of darned good looking foliage topped by red-pink flowers in June. Leaves are variably maroon and green, being darker the harder you grow it. Tough, tolerant and altogether easy ground cover for sun or part shade, looking great with blue-grey things etc..
A maroon leaved clover, making spreading patches of darned good looking foliage topped by red-pink flowers in June. Leaves are variably maroon and green, being darker the harder you grow it. Tough, tolerant and altogether easy ground cover for sun or part shade, looking great with blue-grey things etc..
Zantedeschia aethiopica 'White Giant'
New to the UK and available here first, this is a truly giant form of Arum lily with huge white speckled foliage reaching up to 1.5m high and large white spathes on stalks to 2m! Like any Z. aethiopica form this will reach its largest proportions in a moist site (or water), though you'll find it easy in any site, dry or wet. Quite magnificent.
New to the UK and available here first, this is a truly giant form of Arum lily with huge white speckled foliage reaching up to 1.5m high and large white spathes on stalks to 2m! Like any Z. aethiopica form this will reach its largest proportions in a moist site (or water), though you'll find it easy in any site, dry or wet. Quite magnificent.
Grasses
Festuca sp. NJM 09.071
Collected at a whopping 3900m on Nevado de Colima, Jalisco, Mexico, this made an attractive dense clump of very fine green leaves about 75cm across and up to 75cm in flower; the whole effect being particularly wispy. For well drained soil in full sun.
Collected at a whopping 3900m on Nevado de Colima, Jalisco, Mexico, this made an attractive dense clump of very fine green leaves about 75cm across and up to 75cm in flower; the whole effect being particularly wispy. For well drained soil in full sun.
Miscanthus oligostachyus 'Afrika'
A smaller species grown for its orange-red autumn colours, seen at their best when cool. Slender flowers spikes in late summer to 90cm. Sun or part shade.
A smaller species grown for its orange-red autumn colours, seen at their best when cool. Slender flowers spikes in late summer to 90cm. Sun or part shade.
Ferns
Araiostegia perdurans
An exquisitely beautiful fern, originally collected from the mountains of Taiwan. This has proved to be perfectly hardy on the west coast and has also been frozen solid in my cold polytunnels, where it is completely deciduous. The triangular fronds are incredibly finely dissected and measure up to 35x30cm on 30cm stipes, all arising from a creeping ginger rhizome.
An exquisitely beautiful fern, originally collected from the mountains of Taiwan. This has proved to be perfectly hardy on the west coast and has also been frozen solid in my cold polytunnels, where it is completely deciduous. The triangular fronds are incredibly finely dissected and measure up to 35x30cm on 30cm stipes, all arising from a creeping ginger rhizome.
Athyrium 'Ghost'
Very different to anything else, even the grey forms of A. nipponicum, this truly unique fern has uniformly very pale grey fronds with darker stipes. Fronds are regularly and delicately divided and rise in a rather upright fashion to 90cm. Presumed to be a hybrid between the 'painted' and 'lady' ferns. A wonderful contrast to greener things. For semi-shade.
Very different to anything else, even the grey forms of A. nipponicum, this truly unique fern has uniformly very pale grey fronds with darker stipes. Fronds are regularly and delicately divided and rise in a rather upright fashion to 90cm. Presumed to be a hybrid between the 'painted' and 'lady' ferns. A wonderful contrast to greener things. For semi-shade.
Athyrium nipponicum var. pictum 'Red Beauty'
A form of the Japanese painted fern with extra mauve-purple colouring, most prominent on new foliage. Older fronds turning to the usual mix of silver-grey, grey-green and mauve-purple. A very tolerant fern for most semi-shade situations.
A form of the Japanese painted fern with extra mauve-purple colouring, most prominent on new foliage. Older fronds turning to the usual mix of silver-grey, grey-green and mauve-purple. A very tolerant fern for most semi-shade situations.
Polypodium cambricum 'Pulcherrimum Addison'
Very choice form from 19th Century Cumbria. Neat, substantial, bipinnatifid evergreen fronds. Height to 30cm. Some shade and not too dry.
Very choice form from 19th Century Cumbria. Neat, substantial, bipinnatifid evergreen fronds. Height to 30cm. Some shade and not too dry.
Polypodium glycyrrhiza 'Malahatense' (sterile)
Lovely bipinnatifid form of this N. American species. Evergreen, with new fronds in late summer/autumn. Height to 30cm. Some shade and not too dry.
Lovely bipinnatifid form of this N. American species. Evergreen, with new fronds in late summer/autumn. Height to 30cm. Some shade and not too dry.
Polypodium scouleri
A most unusual Californian species with thick textured, leathery, shiny, dark-green fronds. Forms a good clump in time with a height of about 30cm. Rarely seen but perfectly hardy inland, and excellent in maritime areas, as it is in the wild state.
A most unusual Californian species with thick textured, leathery, shiny, dark-green fronds. Forms a good clump in time with a height of about 30cm. Rarely seen but perfectly hardy inland, and excellent in maritime areas, as it is in the wild state.
Polystichum makinoi
A Far Eastern fern with bipinnate, lustrous green, elegantly formed fronds up to 60cm long. Numerous brown scales on the stipe and rachis add interest and beauty to this tough and reliable garden fern.
A Far Eastern fern with bipinnate, lustrous green, elegantly formed fronds up to 60cm long. Numerous brown scales on the stipe and rachis add interest and beauty to this tough and reliable garden fern.
Rumohra adiantiformis
The Leather leaf fern from the Southern Hemisphere forms creeping clumps of lustrous, evergreen, thick textured triangular fronds to about 60cm high, bipinnately or tripinnately dissected. A very important crop in the cut foliage industry. This is relatively hardy if you have a sheltered position.
The Leather leaf fern from the Southern Hemisphere forms creeping clumps of lustrous, evergreen, thick textured triangular fronds to about 60cm high, bipinnately or tripinnately dissected. A very important crop in the cut foliage industry. This is relatively hardy if you have a sheltered position.
Climbers
Hydrangea 'Semiola'
A new evergreen climbing hydrangea. This is the result of a cross between H. seemannii and H. anomala subsp. petiolaris. An evergreen self clinging climber with copper tinted new growth and slightly shiny foliage, producing a mass of large white lacecap flower heads in May-June. Very suitable for north walls, though happy in full sun.
A new evergreen climbing hydrangea. This is the result of a cross between H. seemannii and H. anomala subsp. petiolaris. An evergreen self clinging climber with copper tinted new growth and slightly shiny foliage, producing a mass of large white lacecap flower heads in May-June. Very suitable for north walls, though happy in full sun.
Schisandra rubriflora
A twining Himalayan deciduous climber with rather lovely, pendulous crimson flowers in late spring, followed on female plants by long dangling strings of bright red berries. Totally hardy, this is suitable for wall, fence or over garden shed etc.
A twining Himalayan deciduous climber with rather lovely, pendulous crimson flowers in late spring, followed on female plants by long dangling strings of bright red berries. Totally hardy, this is suitable for wall, fence or over garden shed etc.
Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Theta'
A new form, raised by Sean Hogan in Oregon, with very narrow leaves. Otherwise as the type, with sweetly scented, creamy, windmill shaped flowers borne in abundance in summer. This species is slightly hardier than T. jasminoides, but both are at their best on a warm wall.
A new form, raised by Sean Hogan in Oregon, with very narrow leaves. Otherwise as the type, with sweetly scented, creamy, windmill shaped flowers borne in abundance in summer. This species is slightly hardier than T. jasminoides, but both are at their best on a warm wall.
Tropaeolum hookerianum subsp. austropurpureum
From wild source seed comes this rare Chilean endemic species, making a slender stemmed herbaceous climber to about 1.5m. Very pretty lilac blue flowers with dark purple inner markings and wide open faces are seen in spring, before the plant goes dormant for a long summer rest. For pot culture in a cool glasshouse or conservatory.
From wild source seed comes this rare Chilean endemic species, making a slender stemmed herbaceous climber to about 1.5m. Very pretty lilac blue flowers with dark purple inner markings and wide open faces are seen in spring, before the plant goes dormant for a long summer rest. For pot culture in a cool glasshouse or conservatory.
Bamboo
Exotics
Agave atrovirens var. mirabilis F&M 245
One of the very largest of all Agave, forming extremely handsome rosettes over 4m across and 2.5m high. A gargantuan beast from the cool, moist highlands of east central Mexico, this will undoubtedly possess a certain degree of hardiness, but more importantly it will be very moisture tolerant. Very rare in cultivation and untested here yet. See my website for photos.
One of the very largest of all Agave, forming extremely handsome rosettes over 4m across and 2.5m high. A gargantuan beast from the cool, moist highlands of east central Mexico, this will undoubtedly possess a certain degree of hardiness, but more importantly it will be very moisture tolerant. Very rare in cultivation and untested here yet. See my website for photos.
Echeveria secunda
A particularly hardy form, surviving even rather hard winters outside if planted vertically in a wall etc. Makes a mass of pretty blue rosettes. Orange and yellow flowers in summer. Sun and excellent drainage.
A particularly hardy form, surviving even rather hard winters outside if planted vertically in a wall etc. Makes a mass of pretty blue rosettes. Orange and yellow flowers in summer. Sun and excellent drainage.
Echeveria secunda large form
Splendid glaucous rosettes to 30cm diameter if offsets are removed, otherwise a mass of smaller ones. Orange and yellow flowers in summer. Fairly hardy, if planted vertically in a wall etc. Sun and excellent drainage.
Splendid glaucous rosettes to 30cm diameter if offsets are removed, otherwise a mass of smaller ones. Orange and yellow flowers in summer. Fairly hardy, if planted vertically in a wall etc. Sun and excellent drainage.
Hedychium densiflorum 'Sorung'
A very distinct form of the species, found by the late great Edward Needham in Nepal. Larger than usual flowers, in the style of the cultivar 'Stephen', are a most unusual pale pinkish-orange. This has proved a very successful garden plant so far, but absolute cold hardiness has yet to be proven.
A very distinct form of the species, found by the late great Edward Needham in Nepal. Larger than usual flowers, in the style of the cultivar 'Stephen', are a most unusual pale pinkish-orange. This has proved a very successful garden plant so far, but absolute cold hardiness has yet to be proven.
Schefflera sp.
An unidentified species of this most desirable genus of evergreen shrubs or small trees. These are propagated from a tree in an inland Devon garden where it has proved very hardy, even through the winters of 2008/9 and 2009/10. Foliage is variably lobed on young plants, but less so as it matures. Makes a large shrub of exotic appearance.
An unidentified species of this most desirable genus of evergreen shrubs or small trees. These are propagated from a tree in an inland Devon garden where it has proved very hardy, even through the winters of 2008/9 and 2009/10. Foliage is variably lobed on young plants, but less so as it matures. Makes a large shrub of exotic appearance.
