Acanthus spinosus
bear's breeches
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: deep, fertile, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: fast growing
- Flowering period: May to August
- Hardiness: fully hardy
A fantastic, architectural plant that’s justifiably popular. It is deciduous, and produces enormous, jagged, deep green glossy leaves up to 90cm long in early spring. In mid-summer, spectacular spikes of white flowers with purple hoods shoot up from the foliage and last for several weeks. It thrives best in dappled shade and although it will take full sun, the leaves may scorch. Plant it as a specimen plant in a mixed border, and give it plenty of room to spread itself out. Slugs and snails love this plant, so pick them off regularly. - Garden care: To minimise the risk of powdery mildew taking hold ensure that the plant is watered well during hot, dry spells. To rejuvenate and minimise congestion, lift and divide large clumps in autumn or spring.
Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'
cow parsley
Lacy purple foliage with a sprinkling of white flowers
£7.99
2 litre pot
within 2-3 days excludes weekends
Heuchera 'Plum Pudding' (PBR)
coral bells
Silver dusted, deep purple leaves
£7.99
2 litre pot
within 2-3 days excludes weekends
Iris chrysographes black-flowered
Siberian iris
Stunning, almost black flowers. For a damp spot
£8.99
2 litre pot
within 2-3 days excludes weekends
Astelia chathamica 'Silver Spear'
silver spear
Dramatic, silvery, spear-shaped leaves
£17.99
2 litre pot
available to order from summer 2013
Mediterranean
Mediterranean gardens can take on various guises from the rustic and rambling to the formal elegance of an Italian courtyard. However, they all have key features in common, including the use of exotic, sometimes tender, drought-tolerant plants in pots and...
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Display as a long-lasting sculptural plant in a spacious flower border. It is attractive for wildflower havens as it is loved by pollinating insects
Lucy Summers - Greenfingers Guides