Aucuba: The Perfect Shrub for Year-Round Colour

Aucuba Japonica Salicifolia

If you’re looking for a hardy, low-maintenance shrub that thrives in almost any garden conditions, Aucuba is a fantastic choice. Often called the ‘Japanese Laurel’, this evergreen beauty is known for its glossy, leathery leaves and ability to brighten up even the shadiest corners of the garden. Here’s a closer look at three standout varieties.

Aucuba Japonica

Aucuba JaponicaThis classic variety is the backbone of many UK gardens, thanks to its resilience and striking foliage. With large, dark green glossy leaves, Aucuba Japonica adds a splash of brightness to shady borders and woodland gardens. It’s also highly tolerant of pollution, making it an excellent choice for urban spaces.

Aucuba Golden King

Despite its regal name, ‘Golden King’ is actually a female variety that produces small, bright red berries in Autumn—provided there is a male plant nearby for pollination. Its large, golden-splashed leaves make it aAucuba Japonica Golden King standout feature in any garden. Perfect for hedging, containers, or as a striking specimen shrub, ‘Golden King’ thrives in both sun and shade.

Aucuba Rozannie

For a more compact option, Rozannie is a great pick. Unlike many other Aucuba varieties, Rozannie is self-fertile, meaning it will produce berries even without a pollination partner. Its deep green, glossy leaves and neat growth habit make it ideal for smaller gardens, borders, or even container planting.

Growing Tips

Aucuba is incredibly easy to grow. It tolerates poor soil, drought, and urban pollution while requiring little maintenance. Simply trim lightly in spring to shape, and enjoy its year-round colour and texture.

Whether you choose the classic Aucuba japonica, the golden-splashed Golden King, or the compact Rozannie, this versatile shrub will keep your garden looking vibrant all year round.

Achillea: A Hardy Perennial for Colour and Pollinators

Achillea Terracotta

Achillea, commonly known as ‘Yarrow’, is a fantastic perennial for UK gardens. It’s loved for its long-lasting, flat-topped flower clusters, feathery foliage, and ability to thrive in poor soil and dry conditions. Achillea is also a magnet for bees and butterflies, making it a must-have for wildlife-friendly gardens. Here’s a closer look at three stunning varieties:

Achillea ‘Moonshine’

ACHILLEA MOONSHINE

ACHILLEA MOONSHINE

If you’re looking for a bright pop of colour, ‘Moonshine’ is a perfect choice. This variety features yellow flowers that contrast beautifully with its silvery-grey foliage. It blooms from early Summer to Autumn and thrives in full sun, making it ideal for borders, gravel gardens, or cottage-style planting.

Achillea ‘Terracotta’

For a warm, earthy tone, ‘Terracotta’ is a standout variety. Its blooms start as rich orange and fade to softer peach hues, adding depth and interest to any planting scheme. It pairs well with ornamental grasses and other late-Summer perennials, creating a naturalistic, prairie-style look.

Achillea ‘Cerise Queen’

Achillea Cerise Queen

Achillea Cerise Queen

For those who love bold colour, ‘Cerise Queen’ does not disappoint. Its vibrant, deep pink flowers provide a striking contrast against its fern-like green foliage. This variety is excellent for cutting and drying, ensuring you can enjoy its beauty indoors as well as in the garden.

Growing Tips

Achillea is easy to grow and requires little maintenance. Plant in well-drained soil and full sun for the best results. Deadheading spent blooms will encourage a second flush of flowers, and cutting back in Autumn will keep plants tidy for the following year.

With its vibrant colours, long flowering season, and pollinator-friendly nature, Achillea is a must-have for any garden.

Small Garden? No Problem! The Best Trees for Compact Spaces

Prunus Kojo No Mai

Just because you have a small garden doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the beauty and benefits of trees. Many trees stay compact, provide seasonal interest, and attract wildlife without taking over your space. Here are some of the best trees for smaller UK gardens.

1. Acer Palmatum 

Acer Phoenix

Acer Phoenix

With its delicate leaves and stunning Autumn colours, the Japanese Maple is a perfect focal point for small gardens. It grows slowly and thrives in partial shade.

2. Amelanchier Lamarckii

Amelanchier Lamarckii

Amelanchier Lamarckii

This small, multi-stemmed tree offers year-round interest, with Spring blossom, Summer berries for birds, and fiery Autumn foliage.

3. Prunus Kojo-No-Mai 

This compact cherry tree bursts into delicate pink-white flowers in spring and has lovely autumn colour. It’s ideal for small spaces or even pots.

4. Cornus Norman Hadden 

A slow-growing tree with unique star-shaped flowers in early Summer and striking Autumn foliage. It stays compact and adds elegance to any garden.

5. Magnolia Stellata 

Magnolia Stellata

Magnolia Stellata

A small tree with show-stopping white star-shaped flowers in early Spring. It remains compact and thrives in a sunny or lightly shaded spot.

Perennial Power: Plants That Come Back Year After Year

Paeonia Lactiflora 'Karl Rosenfield'

If you love a beautiful garden but don’t want the hassle of replanting every year, perennials are your best friend. These hardy plants die back in Winter and return each Spring, growing bigger and better with time. Here are some of the best long-lasting perennials for low-effort gardening in the UK.

1. Echinacea

Echinacea Purpurea Magnus

Echinacea Purpurea Magnus

These vibrant, daisy-like flowers bloom from summer to autumn and attract bees and butterflies. They’re drought-tolerant and thrive in full sun.

2. Hosta

Perfect for shady spots, hostas have lush, leafy foliage in various shades of green, blue, and gold. They’re low-maintenance but benefit from slug protection.

3. Sedum 

Sedum Stardust

Sedum Stardust

Sedums are virtually indestructible, thriving in poor soil and dry conditions. Their late-summer blooms are a magnet for pollinators.

4. Geranium 

Unlike the annual bedding geraniums, hardy geraniums spread quickly and flower for months. They require little more than a trim after flowering.

5. Rudbeckia 

Rudbeckia Goldstrum

Rudbeckia Goldstrum

These cheerful yellow flowers bloom well into autumn and thrive in most soil types. They’re perfect for adding late-season colour.

6. Peonies

Peonies produce large, showy blooms in early summer and can live for decades. Plant them once and enjoy their stunning display for years to come.

7. Astrantia 

A great choice for cottage gardens, Astrantia produces intricate, pincushion-like flowers that look stunning in both beds and bouquets.

8. Hellebores 

Helleborus Niger

Helleborus Niger

One of the earliest bloomers, hellebores flower from late winter into early spring, providing colour when little else is in bloom.

The Best Low-Maintenance Shrubs for a Stunning UK Garden

CHOISYA WHITE DAZZLER

Creating a beautiful garden doesn’t have to mean endless hours of upkeep. If you’re looking for plants that provide year-round interest with minimal effort, low-maintenance shrubs are the perfect solution. Here are some of the best shrubs to grow in the UK for effortless beauty.

1. Lavender 

Lavendula Hidcote

Lavendula Hidcote

Not only does lavender smell incredible, but it’s also drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soil. It requires little more than a light prune after flowering and provides a haven for bees and butterflies.

2. Hebe 

Hebes are evergreen, compact, and come in a variety of sizes and colours. They flower from Summer to Autumn, need very little pruning, and tolerate a range of soil conditions.

3. Choisya 

This glossy-leaved evergreen produces fragrant white flowers in Spring and sometimes again in Autumn. It’s tough, thrives in sun or partial shade, and needs little pruning.

4. Photinia Little Red Robin

Photinia X Fraseri 'Little Red Robin'

Photinia Little Red Robin

A fantastic choice for adding colour to your garden, Photinia produces vibrant red new growth in Spring. It makes an excellent hedge or standalone shrub and requires just an occasional trim.

5. Daphne Odora Aureomarginata

If you love scented plants, Daphne is a must-have. It produces highly fragrant flowers in late Winter to early Spring and thrives in partial shade with little care.

6. Cornus 

CORNUS MIDWINTER FIRE

Cornus Midwinter Fire

Perfect for Winter interest, dogwoods have striking red or yellow stems that brighten up dull months. They require minimal pruning and look stunning when planted in groups.

Hoheria Glory of Almwich – A Stunning Evergreen for Year-Round Interest

Hoheria Glory of Almwich

Hoheria Glory of Almwich, commonly known as the Lacebark, is a striking semi-evergreen shrub or small tree that brings beauty and structure to UK gardens. With its graceful habit, glossy green leaves, and profusion of starry white flowers in late summer, this elegant plant is a fantastic choice for those looking to add year-round interest.

Why Grow Hoheria Glory of Almwich ?

Hoheria Glory of AlmwichThis fast-growing shrub or small tree reaches 4–8m in height, making it an excellent choice for hedging, screening, or as a standalone focal point. It thrives in a variety of settings, offering dense, attractive foliage and masses of fragrant white flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

How to Grow Hoheria Glory of Almwich

  • Position: Best in full sun or partial shade, sheltered from harsh winds.
  • Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but is adaptable to different soil types.
  • Watering: Requires regular watering when young but is fairly drought-tolerant once established.
  • Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed—just remove any dead or damaged growth after flowering to maintain shape.
  • Hardiness: Generally hardy in most parts of the UK, but may need protection in very exposed areas.

Perfect Planting Combinations

Hoheria Glory of Almwich pairs beautifully with other flowering shrubs like Hydrangeas, Viburnum, or Escallonia, and works well alongside ornamental grasses for a soft, natural effect.

Wildlife Benefits & Seasonal Interest

The fragrant, star-like flowers provide a rich nectar source for pollinators, and its dense foliage offers shelter for birds. In autumn, its attractive foliage turns a golden shade, adding another layer of seasonal interest.

With its elegant form, easy maintenance, and wildlife-friendly appeal, Hoheria Glory of Almwich is a fantastic addition to any UK garden. Why not introduce this beautiful, versatile shrub to your outdoor space?

Zantedeschia Green Goddess : A Unique and Elegant Addition to Your Garden

Zantedeschia Green Goddess

Zantedeschia Green Goddess, commonly known as the Arum Lily, is a striking and sophisticated plant that brings a touch of exotic beauty to any garden. Unlike the traditional white lilies, Green Goddess features creamy white blooms with lush green streaks, creating a stunning contrast that makes it a real showstopper.

Why Grow Zantedeschia ‘Green Goddess’?

This elegant perennial is perfect for borders, containers, or pond side planting, offering both height and texture to garden designs. Blooming from late Spring to early Summer, its distinctive trumpet-shaped flowers and lush green foliage provide a long-lasting display. It can reach up to 1m in height, making it a great statement plant.

How to Grow Zantedeschia ‘Green Goddess’

  • Position: Prefers full sun or partial shade. Ideal for damp, sheltered spots.
  • Soil: Thrives in moist, rich, well-drained soil, making it perfect for areas near ponds or in rain gardens.
  • Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season, especially in dry periods.
  • Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every few weeks in spring and summer to promote strong growth.

Perfect Planting Combinations

Pair Green Goddess with Hostas, Ferns, and Astilbes for a lush, jungle-like feel. It also complements bold ornamental grasses and irises, adding depth to mixed borders.

Wildlife and Decorative Appeal

This plant not only adds elegance but also attracts bees and butterflies, making it a great choice for a wildlife-friendly garden. It’s also a popular choice for floral arrangements due to its long-lasting flowers.

With its dramatic looks, easy-care nature, and long flowering season, Zantedeschia ‘Green Goddess’ is an eye-catching addition to any UK garden. Why not introduce a touch of exotic beauty to your space?

Geranium Psilostemon: A Bold and Beautiful Perennial for Your Garden

Geranium Psilostemon

If you’re looking for a striking, low-maintenance perennial that brings vibrant colour to your garden, Geranium PsilostemonGeranium Psilostemon is a fantastic choice. Also known as the Cranesbill, this hardy geranium is loved for its brilliant magenta flowers with deep black centres, creating a bold contrast that stands out in any garden.

Why Choose Geranium Psilostemon?

This clump-forming, herbaceous perennial is known for its long flowering season, blooming from late Spring to late Summer. It reaches up to 1m in height, making it an excellent choice for borders, wildflower gardens, or cottage-style planting schemes. The attractive deeply divided, bright green leaves turn fiery red in Autumn, adding seasonal interest.

How to Grow Geranium Psilostemon

  • Position: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
  • Soil: Grows well in moist, well-drained soil, though it is highly adaptable.
  • Watering: Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant, needing only occasional watering.
  • Maintenance: Deadheading spent flowers encourages continuous blooming. Cut back in late autumn to tidy the plant and encourage fresh spring growth.

Perfect Planting Combinations

Pair Geranium Psilostemon with ornamental grasses, Alliums, or Salvias for a dynamic, layered border. It also looks stunning alongside Roses and Peonies, providing a striking contrast with its magenta flowers.

Wildlife Benefits

Geranium Psilostemon is a pollinator-friendly plant, attracting bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to a wildlife-friendly garden.

With its vivid colour, easy-care nature, and long flowering season, this geranium is a must-have for any UK garden. Why not add a splash of bold beauty to your borders?

Campsis Madame Galen

Campsis X Tagliabuana 'Madame Galen'

Campsis Madame Galen, commonly known as the trumpet vine, graces UK gardens with its vibrantCampsis X Tagliabuana 'Madame Galen' presence and climbing allure. As a deciduous climber, this enchanting plant offers a spectacular display of trumpet-shaped flowers in hues of orange and red, creating a striking focal point in British gardens.

Pruning and caring for Campsis Madame Galen are integral to maximizing its beauty and ensuring a healthy growth habit. Regular pruning, ideally in late winter or early spring, helps control the size and shape of the vine. Remove any dead or unwanted growth, encouraging new shoots to flourish. Adequate support, such as a trellis or pergola, allows the trumpet vine to showcase its climbing prowess, making it an ideal choice for vertical gardening in the UK.

This hardy climber thrives in well-drained soil and appreciates a sunny to partially shaded location. Consistent watering, especially during dry periods, promotes vigorous growth and prolific flowering. Campsis Madame Galen’s ability to attract many garden friendly insects adds to its appeal, making it a delightful and low-maintenance addition to British gardens. Whether adorning walls, fences, or arbors, the trumpet vine stands as a testament to nature’s splendour in the heart of UK landscapes.

Astrantia Maxima

Astrantia Maxima

ASTRANTIA MAXIMAStep into the realm of timeless elegance with Astrantia Maxima, a radiant Masterwort perennial that graces UK gardens with its delicate charm. Renowned for its intricate, star-shaped blooms and enduring beauty, this perennial gem stands as a favorite among garden enthusiasts seeking sophistication in their outdoor spaces.

Astrantia Maxima, commonly known as Masterwort, boasts a profusion of unique soft pink flowers. Its lush foliage forms an attractive mound, providing an enchanting backdrop for the exquisite blooms. Adaptable to various soil conditions and thriving in partial shade, this perennial adds a touch of refinement to British landscapes.

Pruning and Care: Caring for Astrantia Maxima involves straightforward maintenance to ensure its continual splendour. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage new flower production and maintain a neat appearance. In late winter or early spring, cut back the old stems to ground level to make way for fresh growth. This Masterwort thrives in well-drained soil, appreciates consistent moisture, and benefits from a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. With a touch of pruning and care, Astrantia Maxima will remain a regal presence in your UK garden, showcasing its enduring beauty throughout the seasons.