The Best Evergreen Flowers and Gardens From Crocus

Their range includes : Bamboo, Camellia, Candle, Clematis, Deck Chair, Delphinium, Eschbach, Evergreen, Fireworks, Flowers, Flymo, Forsythia, Fountain, Giant Chess Pieces, Granite, Holly, Hybrid, Japanese, Kawasaki, Kettler, Kite, Laurel, Lavender, Leather, Lily, Loam, Magnolia, Miracle-Gro, Oleaster, Patio, Periwinkle, Plant, Planter, Pot, Qualcast, Rose, Shrub, Sprayer, Stainless Steel, Steel, Sweatshirt, Terracotta, Thistle, Trellis, Worms, .

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• Abelia - Fabulously fragrant, funnel-shaped, pale pink-tinged white flowers on arching branches from June to October and glossy, dark green leaves. This vigorous, long-flowering, semi-evergreen shrub makes a perfect focal-point plant for a sunny, well-drained, border. Since it's not reliably hardy in cold areas its best grown against a warm, sunny wall, protected by other shrubs.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: June to OctoberFlower colour: pink-tinged whiteOther features: glossy, dark green leavesHardiness: borderline hardinessGarden care: Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. In autumn after flowering lightly trim back the flowered shoots to retain a neat and tidy shape. Remove any dead or damaged wood in April
• Balkan Cranesbill - Clusters of dazzling, crimson-purple, saucer-shaped, summer flowers and aromatic, light green leaves turning orange-yellow in autumn. The deeply cut, scented, semi-evergreen foliage soon spreads to form low hummocks, valuable for suppressing weeds at the front of an herbaceous border. A reliable plant for a dry, shady spot.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast growingFlowering period: July to OctoberFlower colour: crimson-purpleOther features: aromatic, light green leaves, autumn colourHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: In midsummer rejuvenate plants that are beginning to look jaded, by removing old flowered stems and leaves. Lift and divide large colonies in spring
• Barberry - Clusters of striking, dark orange flowers in mid- and late spring, followed by bluish-purple autumn berries, and spiny, dark green, holly-like leaves. This upright, evergreen shrub is ideal for growing in a shrub border or as an informal, flowering hedge. Vigorous and easy-to-grow, it often produces a second flush of flowers in autumn.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: April and MayFlower colour: dark orangeOther features: spherical, bluish-purple autumn fruitHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Requires minimal pruning. Where some pruning is required, cut back in autumn or winter, after the appearance of the autumn fruitsGoes well with: Artemisia 'Powis Castle', Cerinthe major 'Purpurascens', Magnolia stellata, Sisyrinchium striatum, Buddleja davidii 'White Profusion'. Choisya ternata, Myrtus communis
• Bay Laurel Pyramid - These evergreen bay laurel pyramids are ideal for punctuating a formal or contemporary planting scheme. Since the lustrous, aromatic, dark green leaves, valuable for culinary use, are susceptible to wind scorch provide a sheltered, sunny or partially shady site and winter protection in cold areas.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, moist but well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-growing Flowering period: March to May Flower colour: clusters of greenish-yellow flowersOther features: black autumn berries on female plants; contact with the foliage may aggravate skin allergies; the mature leaves may be used fresh or dried in bouquet garni, for flavouring stocks and saucesHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: Keep well-watered during the growing season and feed with a slow-release fertiliser such as Osmacote. Clip established plants lightly twice during the summer months to retain a balanced shape, using secateurs not shearsGoes well with: Taxus baccata, Ligustrum delavayanum 'Cone', Phlox divaricata 'White Perfume', Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Polemonium caeruleum 'Brise d Anjou', Astrantia major 'Alba'
• Bay Standard - This evergreen bay laurel standard makes an elegant centre piece for a formal vegetable garden or potager. Provide a sheltered, sunny or partially shady site and winter stem protection in cold areas. Clippings of the lustrous, aromatic, dark green leaves are valuable, fresh or dried, for flavouring savoury stocks and sauces.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, moist but well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-growing Flowering period: March to May Flower colour: clusters of greenish-yellow flowersOther features: black autumn berries on female plants; contact with the foliage may aggravate skin allergies; the mature leaves may be used fresh or dried in bouquet garni, for flavouring stocks and saucesHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: Keep well-watered during the growing season and feed with a slow-release fertiliser such as Osmacote. Clip established plants lightly twice during the summer months to retain a balanced shape, using secateurs not shearsGoes well with: Taxus baccata, Ligustrum delavayanum 'Cone', Phlox divaricata 'White Perfume', Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Polemonium caeruleum 'Brise d Anjou', Astrantia major 'Alba'Size Guide&#188; standard plants have a 45cm clear stem beneath a 35cm head&#189; standard plants have a 60cm clear stem beneath a 30cm head&#190; standard plants have a 80cm clear stem beneath a 55cm headStandard plants have a 1m clear stem beneath a 55cm head12" Versailles Hardwood Planter is Ideal for the 1/2 stds - 16" for the 3/4 and Standard BaysJanuary Sale &#189; Bay Standard Was £49.99Now £29.99
• Bergamot - Whorls of rose pink flowers with pink tinged bracts from July to September and aromatic, mid-green leaves. This pretty, rose pink bergamot is an ideal, long flowering plant for the middle of the border. Highly attractive to bees, it looks lovely planted in drifts, as a backdrop to a sea of hardy, semi-evergreen geraniums.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: July to SeptemberFlower colour: rose pinkOther features: fresh or dried leaves make a delicious teaHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Lift and divide large clumps in early April and apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter around each plant. Resist cutting bergamot back in autumn since the stiff, vertical stems look good all winter
• Blistercress - Evergreen with dark green leaves and bushy growth
• Blue Oat Grass - Tightly rolled grey-blue leaves, topped with purple-tinted flowerspikes on stiff, upright stems in early and mid-summer, maturing to a straw colour. This handsome, evergreen, ornamental grass is perfect for a well-drained gravel garden or new perennial border. Chose a sunny site, preferably on alkaline soil, since specimens planted in shade may be affected by rust in wet summers.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: well-drained, poor to moderately fertile, preferably alkaline soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: June and July Flower colour: purple-tinted flower-spikes maturing to a straw colourHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Remove dead foliage and flowering stems in late winter or early springGoes well with: Lavandula augustifolia 'Hidcote', Salvia x sylvestris 'Mainacht', Perovskia 'Blue Spire', Stipa tenuissima, Allium sphaerocephalon, Pinus mugo 'Mops'
• Bowles' Golden Grass - Smooth, strap-shaped, rich golden-yellow leaves and slender, golden flower-spikes from May to July. Bowles' golden grass is a semi- evergreen, ornamental grass that thrives in moist, well-drained soil. Ideal for brightening partly shady areas of a mixed border or woodland garden, it looks wonderful planted with sweet violets and 'lords and ladies'.Position: partial shadeSoil: humus-rich, moist but well-drained soilRate of growth: slow growing Flowering period: May to July Flower colour: goldenHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Divide large colonies in springGoes well with: Viola odorata, Viburnum opulus 'Compactum', Athyrium nipponicum 'Pictum', Arum italicum subspecies italicum 'Marmoratum', Dicentra formosa 'Luxuriant', Sarcococca confusa
• Broad-leaved Silver Holly (Female) - Masses of bright red berries in autumn to winter and lustrous, spiny, silver-margined, dark green leaves, purplish-pink when young. This splendid, silver-margined holly makes an excellent, evergreen specimen tree for a sunny, medium-sized garden. It's particularly suitable for urban or coastal sites since it copes well with pollution and salt-laden air.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moist, well-drained, moderately fertile, humus-rich soilRate of growth: slow-growing Flowering period: May and June Flower colour: whiteOther features: the berries may cause a mild stomach upset if ingested; to guarantee berries it's necessary to plant a male holly nearby; stems of holly are ideal for floral arrangementsHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Plants grown as free-standing specimens require minimal pruning - remove diseased or misplaced branches in spring. Trim plants grown as formal hedges in late summer. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plantGoes well with:Griselina littoralis, Pittosporum tenuifolium 'Purpureum', Taxus baccata, Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald Gaiety', Viburnum tinus 'Eve Price', Galanthus nivalis
• Bugle - Large, glossy, bronze-purple leaves with upright, spires of deep blue spring flowers. An ideal groundcover plant for a slightly shady border. This variety is perfect for covering large areas since it has bigger leaves and is particularly vigorous. Shade tolerant, it also copes well with sun and poor soils.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: MayFlower colour: deep blueOther features: large, glossy, bronze-purple evergreen leavesHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: To rejuvenate and minimise congestion lift and divide clumps in late autumn or early spring every two years
• Bull Bay - An impressive, evergreen tree with leathery, dark green, glossy leaves with rust-coloured hairs underneath. In late summer and early autumn, large, fragrant, creamy white blooms are produced at the end of the shoots. It is best grown as a wall shrub in Britain, where its brittle branches need protection from the wind.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-growingFlowering period: August to SeptemberFlower colour: fragrant, creamy whiteOther features: tolerant of chalky soilsHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Requires minimal pruning. Remove any broken, diseased or crossing branches after flowering. The best time to plant is in April, adding plenty of peat to the planting hole, in a sheltered spot. Mulch in spring with manure and leafmould, especially on dry soilsGoes well with: Cornus alba 'Siberica', Corylus avellana 'Contorta', Rubus thibetanus, Daphne bholua 'Jacqueline Postill', Sarcococca hookeriana var. digyna, Galanthus elwesii, Muscari aucheri
• Burkwood Viburnum - Domed clusters of fragrant white flowers in April and May, opening from pink buds, followed by red fruit, and glossy, dark green leaves. This evergreen Burkwood viburnum is one of the best scented varieties. To fully appreciate the fabulously fragrant flowers chose a partly shady border close to an entrance or path.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: April and MayFlower colour: whiteOther features: fabulously fragrant flowers; red fruits, ripening to black in autumn, which can cause a mild stomach ache if ingestedHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Requires minimal pruning. Where necessary remove any misplaced or diseased branches in mid-summer after flowering
• Cabbage Tree - This palm like tree has striking, sword like, deep red leaves. An ideal, evergreen specimen plant for a sunny, protected border or patio, in frost-prone area it's best grown inside a warm greenhouse or conservatory. In time container grown specimens will need to be replanted in the garden.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast Flowering period: July to August Flower colour: white (on mature trees)Other features: mature trees produce white or blue-tinted berriesHardiness: half hardy Garden care: In spring when new growth appears and all danger of hard frosts has passed cut back frost-damaged branches to just above the newly formed shoots.Goes well with: Trachycarpus fortunei, Musa bajoo, Trachelospermum jasminoides, Hemerocallis 'Stafford', Rosa 'L.D. Braithwaite', Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff'.January Sale Was £10.45 Now £6.95
• Californian Lilac - Fluffy clusters of bright blue flowers in August and September and glossy, bright green leaves retained throughout the year. This bushy, evergreen shrub is ideal for a south or west-facing border, protected from cold winds. Its compact habit makes it an excellent choice for a small, sunny garden with neutral to acid soil.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: August and SeptemberFlower colour: bright blueOther features: evergreenHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: In spring remove any dead or damaged stems, cut back some of the main stems to the base and reduce the stems on the previous year's growth to within 2-4 buds of the older woodGoes well with: Viburnum tinus 'Eve Price', Daphne bholua 'Jacqueline Postill', Itea ilicifolia, Cerinthe major 'Purpurascens', Eryngium variefolium, Nigella damascena 'Miss Jeykll'
• Californian Lilac - Fluffy clusters of rich sky-blue flowers from August to October and glossy, bright green leaves retained throughout the year. This upright, evergreen shrub is ideal for a south or west-facing shrub border or sunny wall. Although one of the hardier varieties of Californian lilac it does needs protection from strong winds.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: August to OctoberFlower colour: sky-blueOther features: evergreenHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: In spring remove any dead or damaged stems, cut back some of the main stems to the base and reduce the stems on the previous year's growth to within 2-4 buds of the older woodGoes well with: Viburnum tinus 'Eve Price', Daphne bholua 'Jacqueline Postill', Itea ilicifolia, Cerinthe major 'Purpurascens', Eryngium variefolium, Nigella damascena 'Miss Jeykll'
• Californian Lilac - Open clusters of dark blue flowers in late spring and early summer and glossy, mid-green leaves. This bushy, evergreen shrub is ideal for a south or west-facing mixed border. It requires protection from cold, drying winds and a neutral to acid soil.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: May to JuneFlower colour: dark blueOther features: evergreenHardiness: frost hardy Garden care: Each year after the plant has flowered reduce the shoots by one third and apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter around the base of the plantGoes well with: Viburnum tinus 'Eve Price', Daphne bholua 'Jacqueline Postill', Itea ilicifolia, Cerinthe major 'Purpurascens', Eryngium variefolium, Nigella damascena 'Miss Jeykll'
• Californian Lilac - This spreading, evergreen shrub is covered in dense clusters of dark blue flowers in mid- and late spring. An excellent specimen plant for a south or west-facing border on neutral to acid soil, it requires a protected site since the deeply veined, dark green leaves are easily scorched by cold, drying winds.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained, neutral to acid soilRate of growth: vigorousFlowering period: April to JuneFlower colour: dark blueOther features: evergreenHardiness: frost hardy Garden care: Each year after the plant has flowered reduce the shoots by one third and apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter around the base of the plantGoes well with: Viburnum tinus 'Eve Price', Daphne bholua 'Jacqueline Postill', Itea ilicifolia, Cerinthe major 'Purpurascens', Eryngium variefolium, Nigella damascena 'Miss Jeykll'
• Camellia - An extremely hardy camellia producing large, peony-form, crimson blooms in February and March. This handsome, evergreen shrub is one of the most popular and easy-to-grow forms of camellia. Narrowly upright in habit, it's ideal for use in a large patio container or for creating an informal, flowering screen.Position: partial shade (but not east-facing)Soil: moist but well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil (or ericaceous compost for container-grown specimens)Rate of growth: fast-growing Flowering period: February and March Flower colour: crimsonOther features: glossy, bright green leavesHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To prevent damage to the emerging buds and flowers protect from cold, dry winds and early morning sun. Water established plants in dry weather to prevent bud drop. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser in mid-spring and again in June. Top-dress annually with shredded bark or well-rotted leaf mould. After flowering lightly trim or prune any branches that spoil the appearance of the plant. Protect container-grown specimens in winter by wrapping with bubble wrap or hessianGoes well with: Pieris japonica 'Taiwanensis Group', Kalmia angustifolia 'Rubra', Skimmia japonica 'Rubella', Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo', Rhododendron 'Snow Lady', Liriope muscari
• Carpenteria - Fabulously fragrant, cup-shaped, pure white, anemone-like flowers in June and July and lustrous, dark green leaves. This summer-flowering, evergreen shrub looks marvellous grown against a sheltered, south or west-facing wall, protected from cold, drying winds. It's upright then slightly spreading form is perfect for training into a fan-shape.Position: full sunSoil: well-drained soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: June and July Flower colour: pure whiteOther features: peeling, pale brown barkHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: After pruning lightly cut back any shoots that spoil the symmetry of the plantGoes well with: Fremontodendron californicum, Choisya ternata, Ceanothus 'Autumnal Blue', Itea ilicifolia, Ceratostigma willmottianum, Hemerocallis 'Cartwheels'
• Chusan Palm - A single-stemmed evergreen palm with wonderful, fan-shaped, dark green leaves up to 75cm long. This handsome Chusan palm makes an excellent specimen plant for sunny exotic garden or courtyard. Although it's one of the most reliably hardy palms it's important to chose a sheltered spot and protect young specimens grown in cold areas with a warm, winter wrap.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: well-drained, fertile soilRate of growth: slow-growing to average Flowering period: June to August Flower colour: yellowOther features: on female plants the flowers are followed by spherical, blue-black fruitHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: In autumn wrap plants with a protective eiderdown of hessian and apply a deep, dry mulch of straw or bracken around the base of the plantGoes well with: Musa basjoo, Trachelospermum jasminoides, Melianthus major, Cerinthe major 'Purpurescens', Hemerocallis 'Cartwheels', Verbena bonariensis
• Clematis (Group 2) - Gorgeous single white flowers which are offset by large, domed bosses of deep purple stamens. The flowers appear in late spring or summer amongst the mid-green, semi-evergreen foliage. An excellent climber for a container or to weave up and through a wall shrub.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: May to AugustFlower colour: whiteOther features: attractive dark purple stamensHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Little pruning is required. However large plants can be cut back hard in early spring to reduce their size. Mulch in late winter with garden compost or well-rotted manure but avoid the immediate crown
• Clematis (Group 3) - Masses of sweetly scented, pure white, star-shaped flowers from July to October, followed by silky-grey seedheads. The common name for this semi-evergreen or deciduous clematis - the fragrant virgin's bower - refers to the fantastic hawthorn-vanilla perfume that fills the air after rain. Perfect for growing through a tree or shrub in a well-drained, sheltered site in full sun.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained, neutral soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: July to OctoberFlower colour: pure whiteOther features: silky-grey seedheadsHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: In early spring cut back the previous year's stems to a pair of strong buds about 15-20cm (6-8in) above ground-level and apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the plant, avoiding the immediate crownGoes well with:Alchemilla mollis, Brunnera macrophylla, Iris germanica, Helleborus argutifolius, Rosa banksiae var. banksiae, Chionodoxa luciliae 'Gigantea Group'
• Clematis - Small, white, bowl-shaped, early spring flowers with contrasting greenish-cream centres and parsley-green leaves. This unusual, evergreen clematis makes a lovely conservatory plant. In mild areas it may also be grown against a sunny, south-facing, sheltered wall. Protect the tender, new shoots from marauding snails and late-frosts.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained, neutral soilRate of growth: average to fast-growingFlowering period: April to MayFlower colour: whiteOther features: parsley-green evergreen leavesHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: No routine pruning is necessary. If the spread of the plant needs to be restricted prune immediately after flowering, cutting back overlong shoots to healthy buds. Apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the base of the plant in early spring.Goes well with: Galanthus nivalis, Brunnera macrophylla, Iris germanica, Helleborus argutifolius, Rosa banksiae var. banksiae, Chionodoxa luciliae 'Gigantea Group'.January Salewas £18.25now £8.95
• Common Box - A dense, evergreen screen of small, rounded, lustrous, dark green leaves. Common box makes a fabulous formal hedge for a partially shady site. One of our recommended plants, it's an excellent backdrop for traditional herbaceous borders. For maximum results plant 30cm (12in) apart in well-prepared, fertile soil and water regularly until well established.Position: partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-growingOther features: contact with the sap may cause skin irritationHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Ensure that the soil or compost is never allowed to dry out. Carefully cut back plants grown as hedges or topiary in mid- or late summer. Carry out rejuvenative pruning in late spring. After pruning apply a top-dressing of a balanced slow-release fertiliser such as blood, fish and bone (organic) or Osmacote (inorganic) around the base of the plant, ensuring that none touches the leaves or stemsGoes well with: Fatsia japonica, Taxus baccata 'Standishii', Ligustrum delavayanum 'Cone', Laurus nobilis, Polemonium caeruleum 'Brise d Anjou', Astrantia major 'Alba'
• Common Box - A dense, evergreen screen of small, rounded, lustrous, dark green leaves. Common box makes a fabulous formal hedge for a partially shady site. One of our recommended plants, it's an excellent backdrop for traditional herbaceous borders. For maximum results plant 30cm (12in) apart in well-prepared, fertile soil and water regularly until well established.Position: partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-growingOther features: contact with the sap may cause skin irritationHardiness: fully hardyTo find out more about how to plant a hedge, click hereGarden care: Ensure that the soil or compost is never allowed to dry out. Carefully cut back plants grown as hedges or topiary in mid- or late summer. Carry out rejuvenative pruning in late spring. After pruning apply a top-dressing of a balanced slow-release fertiliser such as blood, fish and bone (organic) or Osmacote (inorganic) around the base of the plant, ensuring that none touches the leaves or stemsGoes well with: Fatsia japonica, Taxus baccata 'Standishii', Ligustrum delavayanum 'Cone', Laurus nobilis, Polemonium caeruleum 'Brise d Anjou', Astrantia major 'Alba'
• Common Box Pyramid - These evergreen box pyramids are ideal for a formal garden or courtyard. Best planted in fertile, well-drained soil in a partially shady site, they're perfect for punctuating the end of a dwarf hedge or for use in pairs for flanking a set of steps, a doorway or path.Position: partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-growingOther features: contact with the sap may cause skin irritationHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Ensure that the soil or compost is never allowed to dry out. Carefully cut back plants grown as hedges or topiary in mid- or late summer. Carry out rejuvenative pruning in late spring. After pruning apply a top-dressing of a balanced slow-release fertiliser such as blood, fish and bone (organic) or Osmacote (inorganic) around the base of the plant, ensuring that none touches the leaves or stemsGoes well with: Fatsia japonica, Taxus baccata 'Standishii', Ligustrum delavayanum 'Cone', Laurus nobilis, Polemonium caeruleum 'Brise d Anjou', Astrantia major 'Alba'
• Common Ivy - Clusters of yellowish-green autumn flowers and small, lustrous, three to five-lobed, grey-green leaves with bold yellow margins. This versatile, variegated, evergreen climber is ideal as a houseplant or for covering a low wall. For use outdoors chose a sunny site sheltered from cold, drying winds with fertile, moist, well-drained, preferably alkaline soil.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: humus-rich, preferably alkaline, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes No3 potting compost for container-grown plants)Rate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: October and NovemberFlower colour: yellowish-green (on mature plants)Other features: the flowers and fruit are attractive to native birds and bees; all parts of the plant may cause severe discomfort if ingested; the sap is a potential irritantHardiness: half hardyGarden care: Water specimens grown as houseplants regularly during the growing season, providing a balanced liquid fertiliser each month. Keep moist during the winter months. Plants may be pruned at any time of the year to keep within boundsGoes well with: Choisya ternata, Cotinus coggygria 'Purpureus', Euphorbia dulcis 'Chameleon', Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Geranium phaeum, Chionodoxa luciliae Gigantea Group
• Common Myrtle - From mid- to late summer the branches of this upright, bushy, evergreen shrub are festooned with fragrant, white flowers, followed by purple-black berries. An excellent plant for a mixed or shrub border or for growing against a warm, sunny wall, both its glossy, dark-green leaves and flowers give off a fragrant aroma when crushed.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: July to August Flower colour: whiteHardiness: frost hardy Garden care : Protect from cold, drying winds. Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in early spring. Remove any unwanted growth in late spring Goes well with: Sarcococca confusa, Lavandula x intermedia 'Dutch Group', Rosmarinus officinalis 'Miss Jessop's Upright', Petrovskia atriplicifolia, Iris reticulata, Clematis viticella 'Purpurea Plena Elegans'
• Common Polypody - A terrestrial or epiphytic, evergreen fern with long, leathery dark green leaves. Grown for its attractively pinnate fronds, it ideal for growing in walls or can be secured into trees where it will give a tropical look to any garden. It can also be planted at the front of a shady border where it will spread indefinitely.Position: full sun or dappled shadeSoil: moderately fertile, humus-rich, gritty or stony, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Wrap the rhizomes in moss and tie to a suitable rooting medium and keep moist until established. Shelter from cold, drying windsGoes well with:Asplenium scolopendrium, Dicentra formosa 'Luxuriant', Polygonatum odoratum, Epimedium grandiflorum 'Lilafee', Dryopteris filix-mas, Hosta 'Big Daddy'
• Coral Flower - Elegant sprays of tiny, pale pink summer flowers borne on wiry stems above rosettes of silver dusted, plum purple leaves. The fabulous foliage of this purple leaved heuchera is virtually evergreen, making it ideal for groundcover or edging paths. As long as it's given a moist, well-drained soil it thrives in sun or partial shade.Position: full sun or partial shade Soil: fertile, moist, well-drained, neutral soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: June to AugustFlower colour: pale pink Other features: silver dusted, plum purple leavesHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Lift and divide large clumps in early autumn and replant with the crown just above the surface of the soil. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter around the crown of the plant in spring
• Coral Flower - Elegant sprays of tiny, white, bell shaped summer flowers borne on wiry stems above neat mounds of large, chocolate brown and burgundy leaves. This attractive heuchera looks particularly effective planted in drifts. With virtually evergreen foliage it's an excellent, front of border groundcover plant for well-drained sites in sun or partial shade.Position: full sun or partial shade Soil: fertile, moist, well-drained, neutral soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: June to AugustFlower colour: white Other features: large, chocolate brown and burgundy leavesHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Lift and divide large clumps in early autumn and replant with the crown just above the surface of the soil. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted organic matter around the crown of the plant in springJanuary Sale Was £5.45 Now £4.45
• Cotoneaster - Clusters of white flowers in June, followed by masses of almost spherical bright red berries, and dark green leaves, often bronze-tinted in winter. This vigorous, semi-evergreen shrub or tree is an excellent specimen plant for a sunny spot. For maximum success chose a site with moderately fertile, well-drained soil and plenty of space.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moderately fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: JuneFlower colour: whiteOther features: the seeds of the fruit may cause mild stomach upset if ingested; the bright-red berries are highly attractive to birdsHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: In late spring or early summer after flowering lightly cut back any branches that spoil the symmetry of the plant and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant. In autumn trim back lightly any branches that obscure the display of fruitGoes well with: Berberis thunbergii 'Atropurpurea Nana', Myrtus communis, Buddleja davidii 'White Profusion', Lonicera x purpusii, Saxifraga x urbium, Crocus chryanthus 'Herald'
• Daylily - Masses of wonderful lavender-pink 12cm wide flowers are borne continuously in mid- and late summer on slender, erect stems. This vigorous, semi-evergreen daylily soon forms large clumps of strap-like leaves, valuable for suppressing weeds at the front of the border. A particularly free-flowering variety, it prefers a sunny, moist, well-drained site.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: July and AugustFlower colour: lavender-pinkOther Features: strap-like, dark green leavesHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Lift and divide large clumps in spring applying a generous 5-7cm mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant. Water frequently from spring until the buds appear and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2-3 weeks
• Deciduous Azalea - Sweetly scented, yellow, funnel shaped blooms in May and June and mid green leaves, which take on vivid bonfire shades in autumn. This vigorous, deciduous azalea looks great planted in a mixed border with other evergreen trees or shrubs. As long as it's given moist, well-drained acid soil it will tolerate full sun.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil or ericaceous compostRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: May and JuneFlower colour: yellowOther features: vivid bonfire shades in autumnHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Avoid planting too deeply. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of leaf mould around the base of the plant each springGoes well with: Amelanchier lamarckii, Pieris japonica 'Prelude', Enkianthus campanulatus, Digitalis purpurea f. albiflora, Hamamelis mollis, Galanthus nivalis
• English Yew - Needle-like, dark green leaves on horizontal branches and fleshy, cup-shaped, bright-red autumn fruits on female plants. The dark green foliage of this slow-growing, evergreen conifer provides an excellent background for shrub and herbaceous borders. Broadly conical in shape, it's tolerant to dry shade, chalky and acid soils and urban pollution.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-growingOther features: yellow, male cones in spring; female plants produce fleshy, cup-shaped, bright red autumn fruits; all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingestedHardiness: fully hardyTo find out more about how to plant a hedge, click hereGarden care: Trim or renovate in summer or early autumnGoes well with: Phlox divaricata 'White Perfume', Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Polemonium caeruleum 'Brise d'Anjou', Sisyrinchium striatum, Hemerocallis 'Cartwheels', Tropaeolum majus 'Climbing Mixed'
• Evergreen Azalea - Masses of funnel-shaped, wavy petals, white flowers in early summer, and small, dark green leaves, retained all year. This dwarf, evergreen azalea makes a great, all-year patio plant. Only really suitable for warm, southern areas of the country, it requires moist, well-drained ericaceous compost and partial shade.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil or ericaceous compostRate of growth: averageFlowering period: JuneFlower colour: whiteOther features: ideal for growing in pots on the patioHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Avoid planting too deeply. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of leaf mould around the base of the plant each springGoes well with: Amelanchier lamarckii, Pieris japonica 'Prelude', Enkianthus campanulatus, Digitalis purpurea f. albiflora, Hamamelis mollis, Galanthus nivalis
• Evergreen Azalea - Masses of small, funnel shaped, lipstick red flowers in late spring and early summer, and small, dark green leaves, retained all year. This compact, dwarf, evergreen azalea makes a great, all year patio plant. Coping well in extremes of climates, it requires moist, well-drained ericaceous compost or humus-rich, acid soil.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil or ericaceous compostRate of growth: averageFlowering period: May and JuneFlower colour: redOther features: copes well with extremes of climatesHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Avoid planting too deeply. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of leaf mould around the base of the plant each springGoes well with: Amelanchier lamarckii, Pieris japonica 'Prelude', Enkianthus campanulatus, Digitalis purpurea f. albiflora, Hamamelis mollis, Galanthus nivalis
• Evergreen Azalea - Masses of small, funnel shaped, semi-double, bright red flowers in late spring and early summer, and small, dark green leaves. This compact, evergreen azalea is perfect for a shrub border with humus-rich, acid soil. A mass planting provides a fiery and colourful display, unrivalled by any other spring-flowering shrub.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil or ericaceous compostRate of growth: averageFlowering period: May and JuneFlower colour: redOther features: looks fabulous planted 'en masse'Hardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Avoid planting too deeply. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of leaf mould around the base of the plant each springGoes well with: Amelanchier lamarckii, Pieris japonica 'Prelude', Enkianthus campanulatus, Digitalis purpurea f. albiflora, Hamamelis mollis, Galanthus nivalis
• Evergreen Bittersweet - Clusters of tiny, green flowers in May and June and glossy, bright green leaves with white margins, pink-tinged in winter. This variegated foliage of this compact, bushy, evergreen shrub looks particularly attractive in the winter garden. It's ideal for a well-drained border sheltered from cold, drying winds, in sun or partial shade.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: May and JuneFlower colour: greenOther features: the flowers are followed by spherical, white fruit; all parts of the plant may cause a mild stomach upset if ingestedHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Tip prune young plants in mid to late spring to encourage bushy growth and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant. Remove any plain green-leaved shoots as soon as they appear, cutting them back to the originGoes well with: Viburnum tinus 'Eve Price', Ceratostigma willmottianum, Garrya elliptica 'James Roof', Sarcococca confusa, Epimedium x perralchicum 'Frohnleiten', Geranium macrorrhizum 'Album'
• Evergreen Bittersweet - Clusters of tiny, green flowers in May and June and lustrous, yellow-edged, bright-green leaves, pink-tinged in winter. This popular, bushy, variegated, evergreen shrub is ideal for a well-drained border in sun or partial shade. To prevent it from 'reverting' remove any plain green-leaved shoots as soon as they appear.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: May and JuneFlower colour: greenOther features: the flowers are followed by spherical, white fruit; all parts of the plant may cause a mild stomach upset if ingestedHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Tip prune young plants in mid to late spring to encourage bushy growth and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant. Remove any plain green-leaved shoots as soon as they appear, cutting them back to the originGoes well with: Viburnum tinus 'Eve Price', Ceratostigma willmottianum, Garrya elliptica 'James Roof', Sarcococca confusa, Epimedium x perralchicum 'Frohnleiten', Geranium macrorrhizum 'Album'
• Firethorn (syn. Pyracantha Saphyr Yellow) - Upright, later spreading, evergreen shrub with dark green leaves, spiny branches and bunches of small white flowers in late spring. These are followed by a profusion of bright yellow berries in autumn. It is for these showy berries that it is grown, providing colour in the garden when there is little else. It can be grown as a free-standing shrub, against a wall or as a hedge.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: MayFlower colour: pure whiteOther features: bright Yellow berriesHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: When planting incorporate plenty of well-rotted organic matter in to the planting hole. Prune hedges in early to mid-summer. In early spring, trim out misplaced or crossing branches on free-standing shrubs. Tie in any shoots to extend the framework of wall shrubs, and shorten branches to about 2 or 3 leaves from the base after flowering to expose the berriesGoes well with: Corylus avellana 'Contorta', Euonymus alatus 'Compactus', Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire', Helleborus niger 'Potter's Wheel', Anemone x hybrida 'Luise Uhink'
• Flannel Bush - Showy, saucer-shaped, deep yellow flowers from May to October and lobed, dark green leaves. This long flowering, evergreen shrub provides a great backdrop for a shrub or mixed border with well-drained, neutral to alkaline soil. A particularly vigorous variety, it's best grown against a warm sunny wall, sheltered from cold, drying winds.Position: full sunSoil: poor to moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to alkaline soilRate of growth: fast-growing Flowering period: May to October Flower colour: deep yellowOther features: contact with the foliage and shoots may cause skin and eye irritationHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: In late winter or early spring wearing stout gardening gloves and protective goggles remove any misplaced, diseased or crossing branches. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant after pruningGoes well with: Choisya ternata, Ceanothus 'Autumnal Blue', Itea ilicifolia, Ceratostigma willmottianum, Geum 'Lady Stratheden', Hemerocallis 'Cartwheels'
• Foam Flower - Small, upright spikes of creamy-white, star-shaped flowers above a dense carpet of hairy, lobed, light green leaves, bronze-tinted in autumn. This vigorous, evergreen perennial is great groundcover for moist, shady areas in between deciduous shrubs or trees. Flourishing in a wide range of soil conditions, it's an excellent companion for other shade-loving woodland plants.Position: partial or deep shadeSoil: cool, moist, humus-rich soilRate of growth: fast-growing Flowering period: May to July Flower colour: creamy-whiteOther features: potentially invasiveHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Add plenty of well-rotted leaf mould when planting. Lift and divide congested colonies in spring and apply a generous mulch of well-rotted garden compost or compost leaf mould around the base of the plant
• Golden Male Fern (syn. D. affinis 'Cristata The King) - Striking fern that produces a shuttlecock of arching fronds, 10-15cm across, with crested tips. It is one of the more attractive cultivars and virtually evergreen. Best planted in a sheltered, partially shady border with moist,humus-rich soil with other shade-loving woodland perennials.Position: partial shadeSoil: moist, humus-rich soilRate of Growth: slow-growingHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Incorporate lots of well-rottedleaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into theplanting holeJanuary Sale Was £5.95Now £4.95
• Greater Periwinkle - Large, blue-violet or dark violet flowers on arching shoots from April to September and dark green leaves with creamy-white margins. This vigorous, variegated, evergreen shrub is attractive groundcover for large expanses of ground. Flowering best in full sun, it's a useful low-maintenance choice for sloping banks that are hard to mow.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any but very dry soilRate of growth: fast-growing Flowering period: April to September Flower colour: blue-violet or dark-violetHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To prevent the plant from becoming invasive cut back any unwanted shoots in springGoes well with: Choisya ternata, Kerria japonica, Hedera colchica 'Dentata Variegata', Ajuga reptans atropurpurea, Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Galanthus nivalis
• Greater Periwinkle - Large, blue-violet or dark violet flowers on arching shoots from April to September and dark green leaves. This prostrate, evergreen shrub is perfect for suppressing weeds on sloping banks or the bare ground under trees. Extremely fast-growing, it's only really suitable for large gardens - for small sites chose Vinca minor.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any but very dry soilRate of growth: fast-growing Flowering period: April to September Flower colour: blue-violet or dark-violetHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To prevent the plant from becoming invasive cut back any unwanted shoots in springGoes well with: Choisya ternata, Kerria japonica, Hedera colchica 'Dentata Variegata', Ajuga reptans atropurpurea, Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Galanthus nivalis
• Hardy Fern - This striking semi-evergreen fern produces a shuttlecock ofnarrow strap-like crisped fronds with scaly brown mid-ribsthat turn dark green with age. Virtually evergreen as the foliageis present all year. One of our recommended plants, it's bestplanted in a sheltered, partially shady border with moist,humus-rich soil with other shade-loving woodland perennials.Position: partial shadeSoil: moist, humus-rich soilRate of Growth: slow-growingHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Incorporate lots of well-rottedleaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into theplanting hole
• Honeysuckle - Charming, yellow-throated, purplish-red, tubular flowers in June and July and handsome, tapered, glossy, dark green leaves. This pretty honeysuckle is perfect for an informal, cottage-style garden in sun or partial shade. A vigorous, evergreen variety it provides valuable all-year cover for a pergola, arch or boundary wall.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growingFlowering period: June to JulyFlower colour: yellow-throated purplish-red flowersOther features: small, purple-black berries, which may cause a mild stomach upset if ingestedHardiness: fully hardy (borderline)Garden care: Cut back established plants after flowering, removing a third of the flowering shoots. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plant in early springGoes well with: Buddleja davidii 'Nanho Purple', Euphorbia myrsinites, Nepeta x faasenii, Pennisetum orientale, Lavandula augustifolia 'Munstead', Stachys byzantina
• Horned Violet - Masses of subtly scented, pure white flowers from May to August and toothed, oval, fresh green leaves. This horned white violet is ideal for the front of a moist, well-drained border in sun or partial shade. Spreading in habit, the evergreen foliage should be cut back after flowering to maintain a neat, compact shape.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: May to August Flower colour: pure whiteHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To minimise the risk of fungal diseases always use new, sterilised compost for container plants. Deadhead regularly to prolong floweringGoes well with: Hedera helix 'Telecurl', Muscari armeniacum, Tulipa 'West Point', Tulipa 'Yokohama', Hedera helix 'Ivalace', Lonicera fragrantissima
• Japanese Aralia - A tropical-looking, evergreen shrub with gorgeously glossy, deep green palmate leaves. In autumn, creamy white flowers are produced in large panicles, which are often followed by round, black fruit. It makes a superb feature in an exotic-style garden, where the large leaves team well with bamboos and grasses.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: September and OctoberFlower colour: creamy whiteHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: Prune lightly in mid- to late spring, trimming shoots that spoil the symmetry. Protect plants from cold, drying winds
• Japanese Loquat - Whorls of handsome, boldly veined, dark-green leaves provide a foil for clusters of fragrant, white flowers in autumn. This vigorous, evergreen shrub is perfect for growing against a large, sheltered, sunny wall. For maximum results provide fertile, well-drained soil and adequate space for the plant to spread. This striking, specimen sized architectural plant is now at half price, saving a massive £39.95 Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growing Flowering period: September to December Flower colour: whiteOther features: the flowers are followed occasionally in spring by pear-shaped, edible, orange-yellow fruit;Hardiness: frost hardyGarden care: Requires minimal pruning. In February or March remove any misplaced, diseased or dead branches to maintain a permanent, healthy frameworkGoes well with: Trachelospermum jasminoides, Itea ilicifolia, Solanum crispum 'Glasnevin', Sedum spectabile 'Brilliant', Santolina rosmarinfolia, Saxifraga x urbium
• Japanese Skimmia (female) - A spreading, evergreen shrub with white flowers in April and May and slightly aromatic, lance-shaped, dark green leaves. This award-winning shrub provides much-needed colour in the winter garden. Ideal for a shady shrub or mixed border, the flowers are followed by long lasting, bright red berries as long as a male variety is planted close by.Position: partial to full shadeSoil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: April to May Flower colour: whiteOther features: the flowers are followed by bright red berries as long as a male variety is planted close byHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Lightly trim after flowering, if necessary. Add plenty of well-rotted compost when planting as may become chlorotic if planted on poor, dry soilsGoes well with: Buxus sempervirens (box pyramid), Hedera hibernica 'Sagittifolia', Ligustrum delavayanum 'Cone', Laurus nobilis (bay standard), Sarcococca confusa, Skimmia japonica 'Fragrans'
• Japanese Skimmia (male) - A compact, evergreen shrub with clusters of fragrant, white flowers in April and May and slightly aromatic, dark green leaves. This award-winning shrub is a particularly fragrant and free-flowering variety. Strongly upright in habit, it works equally well in a shady shrub border or grown as a container plant.Position: partial to full shadeSoil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: April to May Flower colour: whiteOther features: male plantHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Lightly trim after flowering, if necessary. To improve the moisture retention qualities of the soil add plenty of well-rotted compost when plantingGoes well with: Buxus sempervirens (box pyramid), Hedera hibernica 'Sagittifolia', Ligustrum delavayanum 'Cone', Laurus nobilis (bay standard), Sarcococca confusa, Helleborus orientalis
• Jerusalem Sage - Whorls of hooded, golden yellow flowers in June and July and sage-like, aromatic, grey-green leaves. This spreading evergreen shrub is perfect for a sunny mixed or shrub border. For the best results plant boldly in multiples of three in fertile, well-drained soil and remove any weak or diseased stems each year in mid-spring.Position: full sunSoil: any fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: June and July Flower colour: golden yellowHardiness: fully hardy (borderline)Garden care: In mid-spring shorten any frost-damaged stems, cutting back to just above a healthy bud. Remove any weak or diseased shoots, cutting cleanly back to the baseGoes well with: Stachys byzantina 'Silver Carpet', Euphorbia characias subspecies wulfenii 'Lambrook Gold', Echinops ritro, Anthemis tinctoria 'Kelwayi', Eschscholzia mexicana 'Sun Shades', Artemisia absinthium 'Lambrook Silver'
• Kohuhu - A large, bushy shrub or small tree with whorls of lustrous, wavy-margined, mid-green leaves on dark-grey to black stems. This evergreen pittosporum makes a handsome informal hedge for a sunny coastal garden, sheltered from cold, drying winds. Often producing clusters of tiny, bell-shaped, honey-scented, blackish-red flowers in May and June, the foliage provides excellent material for indoor flower arrangements.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: initially fast-growingFlowering period: May and June Flower colour: blackish-red (occasionally)Other features: the flowers are followed by grey-black seed capsulesHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: Requires minimal pruning. To thin or reduce growth prune mid-spring and apply a generous 5-7 cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plantGoes well with: Griselina littoralis, Trachycarpus fortunei, Trachelospermum jasminoides, Fargesia 'murialae, Hemerocallis 'Stella D'Oro', Canna indica
• Laurel - Dense, bushy, evergreen shrub with large glossy, dark green leaves. It makes an excellent hedging plant, and can cope with deep shade under trees was well as full sun. Small white flowers are produced on spikes in mid-spring, followed by cherry red berries which are harmful if eaten.Position: full sun, partial shade or shadeSoil: moist but well-drained soil, except shallow chalkRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: AprilFlower colour: whiteOther features: a very versatile hedging shrubHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: When planting incorporate lots of well-rotted garden compost in the planting hole and stake firmly. Prune in either spring or summer. Mature plants can tolerate hard pruning in spring, cutting back to the old woodGoes well with: Betula utilis var. jacquemontii 'Grayswood Ghost', Viburnum sargentii 'Onondaga', Choisya ternata 'Sundance', Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire', Daphne mezereum f. alba, Euphorbia griffithii 'Fireglow'
• Laurustinus - Flattened heads of white flowers, opening from rosy-red buds from December to April, followed by dark blue-black fruit. This dependable, evergreen shrub is both faster growing than other varieties and has larger leaves. Flourishing in sun or partial shade, the shiny, dark green foliage provides a dense backdrop against which ornamental plants can easily be seen.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growingFlowering period: December to AprilFlower colour: whiteOther features: the fruits can cause a mild stomach-ache if ingestedHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Remove any over-vigorous shoots that threaten the shape of established specimens in early summer, cutting them well back to within the plant's outlineGoes well with: Epimedium x perralchicum 'Frohnleiten', Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae, Dryopteris filix-mas, Polygonatum odoratum, Astrantia major alba, Rosa rugosa var. alba
• Laurustinus - The dark green leaves of this laurustinus provide a dense backdrop against which ornamental plants can be more easily seen. A reliable evergreen shrub that thrives in sun or partial shade, it produces masses of pink-flushed white flowers, opening from dark pink buds from December to April, followed by a profusion of dark blue-black fruit.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: December to AprilFlower colour: pink-flushed white flowersOther features: the fruits can cause a mild stomach-ache if ingestedHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Remove any over-vigorous shoots that threaten the shape of established specimens in early summer, cutting them well back to within the plant's outlineGoes well with: Epimedium x perralchicum 'Frohnleiten', Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae, Dryopteris filix-mas, Polygonatum odoratum, Astrantia major alba, Rosa rugosa var. alba
• Leatherleaf Sedge - The coppery-brown leaves of this evergreen grass look strangely like hair. An extremely versatile plant - can be grown as a specimen and in containers. We've even seen it planted in a chic, urban windowbox with Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigresens'. Brown flower spikes in mid- and late summer.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moisture retentive soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: July to SeptemberFlower colour: brownOther features: evergreen coppery-brown leavesHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Comb through the plant in winter to remove dead foliageGoes well with: Carex comans 'Frosted Curls', Carex morrowii 'Variegata', Euphorbia dulcis 'Chameleon', Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens', Galanthus nivalis, Carex flagillifera
• Lesser Periwinkle - Lovely, lavender-blue flowers over a long period from April to September and dark green leaves. The long, trailing stems of this prostrate, evergreen shrub are excellent for suppressing weeds in sun or partial shade. Allegedly the best blue-flowered variety and less invasive than Vinca major, it's particularly suitable for smaller gardens.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any but very dry soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: April to September Flower colour: lavender-blueHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To prevent the plant from becoming invasive cut back any unwanted shoots in springGoes well with: Choisya ternata, Kerria japonica, Hedera colchica 'Dentata Variegata', Ajuga reptans atropurpurea, Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Galanthus nivalis
• Lesser Periwinkle - Pretty, pale blue or blue-violet flowers from April to September and lance-shaped, dark green leaves. This pretty, prostrate, evergreen shrub is excellent groundcover for the smaller garden. One of our recommended plants, it's less invasive than Vinca major and grows in any well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any but very dry soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: April to September Flower colour: lavender-blueHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To prevent the plant from becoming invasive cut back any unwanted shoots in springGoes well with: Choisya ternata, Kerria japonica, Hedera colchica 'Dentata Variegata', Ajuga reptans atropurpurea, Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Galanthus nivalisJanuary Sale Was £5.45 Now £4.45
• Lily-of-the-valley Shrub - An unusual and long-flowering variety of pieris with deep pink, almost red, spring flowers and glossy, dark green leaves. This compact, rounded, evergreen shrub is perfect for a partly shady shrub border or woodland garden with moist, well-drained acid soil. To protect the handsome foliage from frost-damage shade from the early morning sun.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: humus-rich, moist, well-drained acid soil or ericaceous compostRate of growth: slow-growingFlowering period: March to MayFlower colour: whiteOther features: glossy, dark green leavesHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Add composted pine needles or peat when planting. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of composted pine needles or peat each year around the base of the plant in early spring. Remove the faded flower-heads in late spring along with any frost-damaged foliageGoes well with: Enkianthus campanulatus, Acer palmatum 'Garnet', Cyclamen hederifolium f. albiflorum, Asplenium scolopendrium 'Crispum', Dryopteris filix-mas
• Lily-of-the-valley Shrub - Clusters of white spring flowers resembling lily-of-the-valley, and glossy, bright red young leaves turning pink, creamy white then dark green. The fiery red young foliage of this upright, evergreen shrub is perfect for brightening a shrub border or woodland edge. Definitely one of the best varieties, it requires a moist, well drained acid soil and shade from morningsun.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: humus-rich, moist, well-drained acid soil or ericaceous compost.Rate of growth: slow-growing Flowering period: April and MayFlower colour: whiteOther features: glossy, red young leavesHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Add composted pine needles or peat when planting. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of composted pine needles or peat each year around the base of the plant in early spring. Remove the faded flower-heads in late spring along with any frost-damaged foliage. Goes well with: Enkianthus campanulatus, Acer palmatum 'Garnet', Cyclamen hederifolium f. albiflorum, Asplenium scolopendrium 'Crispum', Dryopteris filix-mas.
• Lily-of-the-valley Shrub - Clusters of white spring flowers resembling lily-of-the-valley, and glossy, bright red young leaves turning pink, creamy white then dark green. The fiery red young foliage of this upright, evergreen shrub is perfect for brightening a shrub border or woodland edge. Definitely one of the best varieties, it requires a moist, well drained acid soil and shade from morningsun.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: humus-rich, moist, well-drained acid soil or ericaceous compost.Rate of growth: slow-growing Flowering period: April and MayFlower colour: whiteOther features: glossy, red young leavesHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Add composted pine needles or peat when planting. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of composted pine needles or peat each year around the base of the plant in early spring. Remove the faded flower-heads in late spring along with any frost-damaged foliage. Goes well with: Enkianthus campanulatus, Acer palmatum 'Garnet', Cyclamen hederifolium f. albiflorum, Asplenium scolopendrium 'Crispum', Dryopteris filix-mas.
• Lithospermum - This prostrate, spreading evergreen shrub is smothered with masses of deep azure-blue funnel-shaped flowers over a long period from May to August. One of our recommended plants, it's perfect for softening the edges of a sunny raised bed or rock garden outcrop with well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil.Position: full sunSoil: well-drained, humus-rich, acid soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: May to August Flower colour: deep azure-blueOther features: hairy, deep green leavesHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Trim lightly after floweringGoes well with: Euphorbia rigida, Narcissus 'Tete a Tete', Saxifraga x urbium, Linum perenne 'Blau Saphir', Rhododendron fastigiatum 'Blue Steel', Chionodoxa luciliae Gigantea Group
• Mexican Orange Blossom - Highly fragrant, pink-tinged, white flowers in late spring and handsome, glossy, dark green leaves. This compact, rounded, evergreen shrub is an ideal garden staple for a protected border in sun or part shade. Although fully hardy the leaves may be damaged by exposure to strong winds or frost.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: April to May and August to SeptemberFlower colour: whiteHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Prune established plants in spring immediately after flowering, removing 25-30cm (10-12in) of the flowered stems. This encourages a second flush of flowers in late-summer and autumn. At the same time remove any frost-damaged stems to the baseGoes well with: Anemone x hybrida, Crocosmia 'Lucifer', Cotinus coggygria 'Purpureus', Euphorbia dulcis 'Chameleon', Deutzia x magnifica, Artemisia 'Powis Castle'
• Mexican Orange Blossom - Wonderfully scented, star-shaped, white flowers in late spring and handsome, aromatic, dark green leaves. This compact and easy-to-grow shrub is a valuable garden mainstay for a protected site in sun or part shade. The glossy, evergreen leaves provide an excellent backdrop for medium-sized perennials and pale-grey or purple foliage plants.Position: full sun to partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: April to May and August to SeptemberFlower colour: whiteHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Prune established plants in spring immediately after flowering, removing 25-30cm (10-12in) of the flowered stems. This encourages a second flush of flowers in late-summer and autumn. At the same time remove any frost-damaged stems to the base
• Myrtle - Fragrant, pink-tinted cream flowers from July to August, followed by white berries, and lustrous, dark green leaves. This sun-loving, evergreen shrub is ideal for a mixed or shrub border with fertile, moist, well-drained soil. More compact and rounded than the species plant, it's particularly valuable where border space is limited.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: July to August Flower colour: pink-tinted cream flowersHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: Protect from cold, drying winds. Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in early spring. Remove any unwanted growth in late springGoes well with: Sarcococca confusa, Lavandula x intermedia 'Dutch Group', Rosmarinus officinalis 'Miss Jessop's Upright', Petrovskia atriplicifolia, Iris reticulata, Clematis viticella 'Purpurea Plena Elegans'
• Oleaster - Lustrous, dark green leaves with lime-green and yellow-splashed centres and fragrant, creamy-white, autumn flowers. This versatile, variegated plant is ideal for illuminating dark areas of the shrub border or for growing as an informal hedge. One of the toughest evergreen shrubs, it copes well with dry soil and salt-laden air.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: October and November Flower colour: creamy-whiteOther features: the variegated foliage is excellent for flower-arrangingHardiness: fully hardyTo find out more about how to plant a hedge, click hereGarden care: To keep hedging specimens tidy in late summer cut back long or misplaced shoots using secateurs. Remove any plain green-leaved shoots as soon as they appear, cutting them back to the originGoes well with: Choisya ternata, Garrya elliptica, Sarcococca confusa, Hedera hibernica 'Sagittifolia', Geranium macrorrhizum 'Album', Galanthus nivalis
• Osmanthus - This popular, rounded, evergreen shrub has glossy, finely toothed, dark green leaves and highly scented, jasmine like, white flowers in mid and late spring. Ideal for a border on fertile, well-drained soil in dappled shade, it's a great shrub to chose for an oriental style garden. Remove misplaced, dead or diseased branches immediately after flowering.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: April and May Flower colour: whiteOther features: finely toothed, dark green leavesHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Minimal pruning is required. Remove misplaced, dead or diseased branches in late spring and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant. Goes well with: Myrtus communis, Choisya ternata 'Aztec Pearl', Deutzia x magnifica, Sarcococca confusa, Clematis viticella 'Purpurea Plena Elegans', Galanthus nivalis.
• Oval Leaf Privet - Dense clusters of white flowers in July and August followed by shiny, spherical, black fruit and oval, rich-green leaves. This vigorous oval leaf privet makes an excellent, pollution-tolerant hedge for an urban or suburban site. Thriving in sun or shade, the lustrous, dark green foliage provides an evergreen backdrop for ornamental and feature plants.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growing Flowering period: July and August Flower colour: whiteOther features: all parts of the plant may cause severe discomfort if ingestedHardiness: fully hardyTo find out more about how to plant a hedge, click hereGarden care: Plants grown as free-standing specimens require minimal pruning - where necessary remove any misplaced or diseased branches in late-winter or early spring. Trim hedging plants twice yearly - in May and August. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plant.Goes well with: Berberis thunbergii 'Aurea', Choisya ternata, Cotinus coggygria 'Purpureus', Euphorbia palustris, Eranthis hyemalis, Narcissus 'February Gold'.
• Periwinkle - Marvellous, mid-blue flowers from April to September and glossy, golden leaves with dark-green margins. This striking, variegated, evergreen plant is excellent groundcover for a small, sunny border. Probably the best new plant introduced in 2001, the trailing stems are ideal for softening hard landscaping or for spilling over the edges of a hanging basket.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: any but very dry soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: April to September Flower colour: mid-blueHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To prevent the plant from becoming invasive cut back any unwanted shoots in springGoes well with: Choisya ternata, Kerria japonica, Hedera colchica 'Dentata Variegata', Ajuga reptans atropurpurea, Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Galanthus nivalis
• Phlox - Fragrant, lilac-blue flowers in May and June and hairy, bright green leaves. An attractive spreading, semi-evergreen plant that is ideal for planting along the edge of the border or by a well-used path where the perfumed blooms can be appreciated. Add lots of leaf-mould or composted pine needles to the soil when planting, since it prefers a humus-rich soil.Position: partial shadeSoil: humus-rich, fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: May to JuneFlower colour: lilac-blueOther features: hairy, bright green leavesHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Add lots of leaf-mould or composted pine needles to the soil when planting. Lift and divide large clumps in autumn or springThis plant forms part of the Shady Border Collection. Click here to view the border
• Phlox - Masses of small, pure white, fragrant flowers in May and June and hairy, bright green leaves. This spreading, semi-evergreen phlox creates a wonderful perfumed edge for a well-used path in partial shade. Add lots of leaf-mould or composted pine needles to the soil when planting, since it prefers a humus-rich soil.Position: partial shadeSoil: humus-rich, fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: May to JuneFlower colour: pure whiteOther features: hairy, bright green leavesHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Add lots of leaf-mould or composted pine needles to the soil when planting. Lift and divide large clumps in autumn or springGoes well with: Geranium macrorrhizum 'Album', Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Epimedium x perralchicum 'Frohnleiten', Narcissus 'Tete-a-Tete', Lamium maculatum 'Beacon Silver', Brunnera macrophylla
• Phlox - Pretty carpets of pale to deep lilac-blue flowers with narrow petals in June and hairy, bright green leaves. This spreading, semi-evergreen phlox is one of the most attractive low-growing varieties. Perfect for edging areas of the border in partial shade, to minimise the incidence of powdery mildew plant in soil that remains moist in summer.Position: partial shadeSoil: humus-rich, fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: JuneFlower colour: pale to deep lilac-blueOther features: hairy, bright green leavesHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Lift and divide large clumps in autumn or spring
• Poor Man's Box - Glorious, golden-yellow leaves on long arching shoots and inconspicuous, creamy-white, tubular flowers in spring. This fast- growing, bushy, evergreen shrub is an excellent structural plant for a sunny site. Useful where immediate impact is required, it can be clipped to form diminutive topiary shapes or a low hedge.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growingFlowering period: AprilFlower colour: creamy-whiteOther features: occasionally followed by glossy, blue-purple berries, which may cause a mild stomach upset if ingestedHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Trim plants grown as hedges at least three times between spring and autumn. Prune specimen plants annually each spring and apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plantGoes well with: Buddleja davidii 'Nanho Purple', Euphorbia myrsinites, Nepeta x faasenii, Pennisetum orientale, Lavandula augustifolia 'Munstead', Stachys byzantina
• Portuguese Laurel - A lovely large, evergreen shrub that has dark green leaves with red stalks. Small white, slightly fragrant flowers are borne on long racemes in early summer, and often followed by small, red fruit which eventually turn dark purple. The fruit is harmful if eaten. Portugal laurel is an excellent hedging plant and it can even tolerate chalky soils.Position: full sun, partial shade or shadeSoil: moist but well-drained soil, except shallow chalkRate of growth: averageFlowering period: AprilFlower colour: whiteOther features: lovely leaves with bright carmine red stalksHardiness: fully hardyTo find out more about how to plant a hedge, click hereGarden care: When planting incorporate lots of well-rotted garden compost in the planting hole and stake firmly. Prune in either spring or summer. Mature plants can tolerate hard pruning in spring, cutting back to the old woodGoes well with: Betula utilis var. jacquemontii 'Grayswood Ghost', Viburnum sargentii 'Onondaga', Choisya ternata 'Sundance', Cornus sanguinea 'Midwinter Fire', Daphne mezereum f. alba, Euphorbia griffithii 'Fireglow'
• Rambler Rose - Sprays of fragrant, double, butter-yellow flowers in July and glossy, dark green leaves, bronze-tinted when young. The flowers of this charming rambling rose fade to pale yellow with age. Practically evergreen, it's ideal for screening an unsightly building or wall in sun or partial shade.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: JulyFlower colour: butter-yellowOther features: fragrant flowersHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Before planting shorten thick roots to 25cm (10in) and reduce top-growth to an outward-facing bud 8-15cm (3-6in) above ground-level. Plant during a frost-free spell, incorporating well-rotted organic matter and a balanced fertiliser into the planting hole. Ensure that the 'bud union' (the bulge at the base of the shoots) is 2.5cm (1in) below the soilGoes well with:Alchemilla mollis, Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White', Hesperis matronalis, Chionodoxa luciliae Gigantea Group, Allium sphaerocephalon, Clematis 'Etoile Violette'All our roses are field grown. In October/November they are dug up and potted. However, they will not produce any new roots until spring, so don't be suprised if the compost falls away from the roots when winter planting. Some suppliers send out 'bare root' plants unpotted, but we don't as it is easier to manage them on the nursery in pots.
• Rhododendron - Masses of pale to mid-pink, funnel-shaped flowers in early spring and small, dark green leaves. This semi-dwarf, evergreen rhododendron is perfect for a sunny, rock garden with humus-rich, acid soil. Sadly, it's really suitable for warm areas of the country only, since the magnificent flowers and foliage are vulnerable to damage from early frosts.Position: full sun or partial shade Soil: moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil or ericaceous compostRate of growth: average Flowering period: MarchFlower colour: pinkOther features: evergreenHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: Avoid planting too deeply. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of leaf mould around the base of the plant each spring. Goes well with: Amelanchier lamarckii, Pieris japonica 'Prelude', Enkianthus campanulatus, Digitalis purpurea f. albiflora, Hamamelis mollis, Galanthus nivalis.
• Rock Cranesbill - Clusters of dazzling, saucer shaped, magenta flowers in summer and aromatic, light green leaves, tinted purple in autumn. The deeply cut, strongly aromatic, semi-evergreen foliage soon spreads to form a low carpet, perfect for softening the edges of pathways and borders and for suppressing weeds. Excellent groundcover in full sun or part shade.Position: full sun or partial shade Soil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast growing Flowering period: July to OctoberFlower colour: magenta Other features: aromatic, semi-evergreen foliageHardiness: fully hardy Garden care: In midsummer rejuvenate plants that are beginning to look jaded, by removing old flowered stems and leaves. Lift and divide large colonies in spring. Goes well with: Iris germanica, Sisyrinchium striatum, Hemerocallis 'Cartwheels', Eryngium variefolium, Foeniculum vulgare 'Purpureum', Allium cristophii.
• Rock Rose - Wonderful, white, papery flowers, with golden-yellow centres and burgundy markings at the base of each petal. This summer flowering evergreen shrub is ideal for a sheltered, sunny border or a large, well-drained, patio container. After flowering its rounded habit can be maintained by pinching back into the current season's growth - but it should never be hard pruned.Position: full sunSoil: moderately-fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growing Flowering period: June and July Flower colour: whiteOther features: wavy-margined, sticky, bright-green leaves; tolerates chalky soil and salt-laden airHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: After flowering pinch back young plant to encourage a bushy habit. Lightly trim or cut back any stems that spoil the symmetry of the plant. This plant should never be pruned hardGoes well with: Anthemis tinctoria 'E.C. Buxton', Stachys byzantina 'Silver Carpet', Ceratostigma willmottianum, Eryngium variifolium, Artemisia absinthium 'Lambrook Silver', Perovskia 'Blue Spire'
• Sage - Spikes of lilac-blue flowers in early to mid-summer and grey-green aromatic leaves, splashed with cream and pink-purple. This eye-catching variegated sage makes a perfect evergreen edge for a sunny border or mini potager. The aromatic leaves are valuable fresh or dried for flavouring stuffings, meat dishes and herbal teas.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: light, fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast Flowering period: May to July Flower colour: lilac-blueOther features: the leaves can be used fresh or dried to make stuffings, herb teas and herb butterHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To encourage a plentiful supply of young red-purple foliage gather the leaves regularly and prune lightly in July after floweringGoes well with: Origanum vulgare 'Aureum Crispum', Melissa officinalis, Thymus serphyllum, Foeniculum vulgare 'Purpurescens', Ocimum sativum, Petroselium crispum
• Scotts Evergreen Lawn Builder and Moss Control - Greens up grass and kills moss, creating a thicker, stronger lawn. Contains ferrous sulphate.
• Sea Holly (Eryngium planum Blue Dwarf) - This small sea holly produces masses of intense blue, teasel-like flowers on branched stems from July to September above clumps of toothed, dark green leaves. An excellent, evergreen plant for the front of a sunny, well-drained border or gravel garden, the spiky blooms are perfect for use in dried flower arrangements.Position: full sunSoil: dry, well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: July to September Flower colour: intense blueOther features: ideal for use in dried flower arrangementsHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Lift and divide large colonies in spring. Avoid the temptation to cut back the flower-heads in autumn as they provide interest in the winter gardenGoes well with: Perovskia 'Blue Spire', Stachys byzantina 'Silver Carpet', Euphorbia characias subspecies wulfenii 'Blue Wonder', Sedum spectabile, Crambe maritima, Stipa tenuissima
• Senecio - Cheerful, bright yellow, daisy-like flowers in June and July and oval, white-hairy leaves, becoming dark green with age. This popular, mound-forming, evergreen shrub makes an attractive groundcover plant for a sunny, well-drained site. It's particularly suitable for coastal gardens since it stands up well to strong winds and salt-laden air.Position: full sunSoil: well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: June and July Flower colour: yellowHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Cut back lightly after flowering to maintain a compact, bushy habitGoes well with: Centranthus ruber 'Albus', Griselina littoralis, Armeria hybrida 'Bees Hybrids', Crambe maritima, Euphorbia mellifera, Olearia x haastii
• Skimmia - A dome-shaped, evergreen shrub with narrow, tapered dark green leaves which are slightly aromatic. In mid- to late spring, fragrant white flowers, sometimes tinged pink or red, open from red buds on dense panicles. In autumn, bright red berries are produce, often lasting well in to winter. A good shrub for the a pot on the patio or in the garden border.Position: lightly dappled or deep shadeSoil: moist, fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: April to MayFlower colour: pure white, often pink or red tingedOther features: good shrub for a dark spot in the gardenHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: When planting incorporate plenty of well-rotted organic matter in to the planting hole. Light or no pruning is required, but can be trimmed lightly after flowering to maintain the symmetry of the shrubGoes well with: Sarcococca confusa, Euonymus fortunei 'Harlequin', Gaultheria mucronnata 'Red', Hedera helix 'Parsley Crested', Leucothoe walteri 'Rainbow', Lonicera fragrantissima
• Soft Shield Fern - Soft, dark green fronds arranged in a distinctive shuttlecock-like shape. This large, evergreen fern is perfect for a shady, well-drained, mixed border. One of our recommended plants, the old foliage can either be cut back in early January to allow the underplanting of spring bulbs or left in place until April when the new fronds appear.Position: full or partial shadeSoil: fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole Goes well with: Sarcococca confusa, Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens', Polygonatum odoratum, Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum', Ruscus aculeatus, Hosta 'Big Daddy'
• Soft Shield Fern - Soft, narrow, dark green fronds arranged in a distinctive shuttlecock-like shape. This handsome evergreen fern is perfect for a shady border with fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Cutting back the foliage in early January allows the surrounding area to be underplanted with snowdrops, winter aconites or wood anemones.Position: full or partial shadeSoil: fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Incorporate lots of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole Goes well with: Sarcococca confusa, Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens', Polygonatum odoratum, Epimedium x youngianum 'Niveum', Ruscus aculeatus, Hosta 'Big Daddy'
• Spotted Oleaster - Delicately scented, silvery-white autumn flowers and lustrous, dark green leaves with a bold, dark yellow central mark. This easy-to-grow, evergreen shrub is perfect for lifting sombre areas of the border or for growing as an informal hedge in an exposed, coastal site. The handsome, variegated foliage, excellent for flower-arranging, is best in full sun.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: October and NovemberFlower colour: whiteOther features: flowers are followed by brown fruit, ripening to redHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To keep hedging specimens tidy in late-summer cut back long or misplaced shoots using secateurs. Remove any plain green-leaved shoots as soon as they appear, cutting them back to the origin Goes well with: Goes well with: Choisya ternata, Garrya elliptica, Sarcococca confusa, Hedera hibernica 'Sagittifolia', Geranium macrorrhizum 'Album', Galanthus nivalis.
• Spurge - Upright stems clothed with fleshy grey-green leaves and topped with huge heads of chartreuse-green flowers from March to May. Edwardian garden designer Gertrude Jekyll described this sun-loving evergreen shrub as 'one of the grandest of plants'. A tall mainstay of the traditional herbaceous border, it's equally at home in a contemporary minimalist or gravel garden.Position: full sunSoil: light, well-drained garden soilRate of growth: fast growing Flowering period: March to May Flower colour: chartreuse-greenOther features: all parts of the plant are poisonous and a potential skin and eye irritantHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To promote new shoots remove flower heads in spring after they have flowered. When working with spurges always wear gloves since the milky sap is poisonous and a potential skin irritant
• Spurge - Upright, fleshy stems clothed in spring with handsome red-stained, mid-green leaves, followed by clusters of long-lasting, red-eyed, chartreuse-green flowers. This evergreen spurge looks equally good when not in flower. More compact than many of its sun-loving cousins, it's perfect for a small sunny border, gravel or coastal garden.Position: full sunSoil: light, well-drained garden soilRate of growth: average to fast growing Flowering period: March to July Flower colour: chartreuse-greenOther features: all parts of the plant are poisonous and a potential skin and eye irritantHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: To promote new shoots remove flower heads in spring after they have flowered. When working with spurges always wear gloves since the milky sap is poisonous and a potential skin irritant
• Star Jasmine - An attractive woody, evergreen climber with rich, dark green leaves which turn bronze in winter. Clusters of fragrant, pure white flowers are produced from mid- to late summer. It is best grown against a warm, sunny wall in milder areas or in a greenhouse or conservatory in areas prone to severe frosts.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: July to AugustFlower colour: white flowersOther features: very fragrant flowersHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: After flowering has finished prune back to fit the available space. In frost prone areas, grow in pots of loam-based potting compost, such as John Innes No2 and move to a frost-free spot in winter
• Sweet Box - Sweetly scented, pure white flowers from December to March and lustrous, dark green leaves. This wonderful, winter-flowering, dense, evergreen shrub is perfect for a shady border or woodland garden. To fully appreciate the fabulous, vanilla-like fragrance plant in moist, well-drained soil close to an entrance or path. Copes well with dry shade and urban-pollution.Position: partial to deep shadeSoil: moderately fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-growing to average Flowering period: December to March Flower colour: whiteOther features: the flowers are followed by spherical, glossy, black berriesHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: In late winter or early spring lightly trim or prune back shoots that spoil the plant's symmetry. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost around the base of the plant
• Trachelospermum - Clusters of jasmine-scented, creamy-white, tubular flowers in mid- and late-summer and lustrous, dark green leaves. This versatile, evergreen climber is perfect for covering a sheltered, sunny house wall or training through a robust tree. In areas where winter temperatures fall below -10 degrees centigrade it's best grown under glass in a large, cool greenhouse or conservatory.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soil (or loam-based potting compost such as John Innes no. 3 for container-grown specimens)Rate of growth: initially slow-growing Flowering period: July and August Flower colour: creamy-white aging to yellowHardiness: frost hardyGarden care: In February or March trim to keep within boundsGoes well with: Musa basjoo, Trachycarpus fortunei, Melianthus major, Cerinthe major 'Purpurescens', Hemerocallis 'Cartwheels', Verbena bonariensis
• Verbena - Tightly packed clusters of lilac-purple flowers on tall, stiff, branching stems from June to September. This stylish, semi-evergreen perennial has been enjoying a resurgence of interest in recent years. Perfect for a sheltered, sunny, well-drained spot, its open, transparent shape means that it can easily be used at the front or middle of the border despite its height.Position: full sunSoil: moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: June to September Flower colour: lilac-purpleOther features: self-seeds freely; wrinkled, dark green leaves; highly attractive to butterflies and beesHardiness: borderline hardyGarden care: In areas prone to frost apply a deep, dry winter mulch around the crown of the plant. Where the plant is grown in partial shade the stems may need to be supported - if this is necessary use natural materials such as brushwood or twiggy pea-sticksThis plant forms part of the Prairie Border Collection. Click here to view the border
• Viburnum - Flattened heads of tubular, white flowers in May, followed by metallic, turquoise-blue fruit, and distinctively veined, dark green leaves. This compact, evergreen shrub is an attractive groundcover plant for the front of a border in sun or partial shade. Forming a low, dome-like shape, it's an important visual 'anchor' for taller perennials and shrubs.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: MayFlower colour: whiteOther features: the fruits can cause a mild stomach ache if ingestedHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Requires minimal pruning. To retain a neat,dome-like shape cut back to strong stems or the base of the plantPlease not: both male and female plants are needed to produce berries but unfortunately we cannot guarantee the sex of our plants
• Wood Violet (syn. Viola labradonica var. purpurea) - Delicate, violet blue flowers borne in April and June above attractive, dark purplish-green heart-shaped leaves. This charming wood violet look lovely planted in drifts under deciduous shrubs in a wild or woodland garden. A vigorous, semi-evergreen variety, it needs protection from midday sun and damage from slugs.Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: April and June Flower colour: violet-blueHardiness: fully hardyGarden care: Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering and remove runners as they appear to ensure the best flowering performanceGoes well with: Viburnum opulus, Brunnera macrophylla, Galanthus nivalis, Convallaria majalis, Pulmonaria 'Sissinghurst White', Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae