Growing
Your Chrysanthemum Might Be A Late Bloomer - Check These Reasons For Not Flowering
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Late-Bloomers 2) Lack Of Sun 3) Waterlogged Soil 4) Excess Nitrogen 5) Pests And Diseases Chrysanthemums are cheery flowering plants that work well in beds and borders, while late-flowering types flower in the winter months and can be grown as houseplants indoors. But what if your chrysanthemums fail to bloom? There are a range of reasons why chrysanthemums may fail to flower, but the most common reasons for an absence of blooms are: It is the wrong blooming season for the variety you are growing. Your plant is receiving too little sun. The roots of your Chrysanthemum are growing in overly wet or waterlogged conditions. There is excess nitrogen in the plant’s soil. Pests or diseases may have impacted your plants. Read on for a little more information to help you work out the reasons for this problem. 1) Late-Bloomers Remember, there are different types and cultivars of chrysanthemums and some bloom later than others, as Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly explains: “There are early, mid and late-flowering Chrysanthemums, flowering at different times from August through to November. “I like to grow a range if I can so that I can replace one pot for another as the season progresses from late summer to late autumn. ‘Remember to label your plants and note when it is due to flower.” Make sure you know which type or types you are growing, so you know precisely when you should expect it to bloom. Most hardy garden chrysanthemums will bloom in September and October, but more tender types will flower later, usually over the winter months. 2) Lack Of Sun Often, a problem with non-flowering is due to environmental conditions, such as excessive shade. Chrysanthemums are sun-loving plants, which should ideally be grown in full sun. If they do not get enough sun, they may not flower as well or they may fail to flower entirely. 3) Waterlogged Soil Another environmental problem which can lead to chrysanthemums failing to bloom is excessive water. These plants require relatively free draining conditions, so while they do need the soil or growing medium to remain moist, it is important not to overwater. Make sure that excess water can drain away freely and that waterlogging does not occur. 4) Excess Nitrogen If you have fed your chrysanthemums with a nitrogen-rich fertiliser or plant feed, this can sometimes encourage foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Always avoid synthetic nitrogen feeds and choose organic options. You should feed chrysanthemums with an organic liquid plant feed from late spring, but stop feeding as soon as the flower buds start to open. 5) Pests And Diseases Sometimes, especially where overwatering has occurred, chrysanthemums can develop fungal diseases, such as root rot and mould. White rust is one of the common fungal infections you may encounter. This causes discolouration and problems with the leaves, but where a plant is badly affected, its growth may be stunted and fail to flower. Pests like slugs and snails, aphids, leaf miners and eelworms may also have weakened your plant and stunted its growth, reducing flowering. You can reduce the chances of pest or disease problems by making sure you provide the appropriate growing conditions and care for your plants.
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21 RHS Award-Winning Chrysanthemum Types With Options For Any Region
IN THIS GUIDE 1) C. ‘Allouise’ 2) C. ‘Aluga White’ 3) C. ‘Bronze Elegance’ 4) C. ‘Barbara’ 5) C. ‘Cassandra’ 6) C. ‘Debonair’ 7) C. ‘Enbee Wedding’ 8) C. ‘Golden Cassandra’ 9) C. ‘Gold Mundial’ 10) C. ‘Happy Jogger’ 11) C. ‘Lynn’ 12) C. ‘Mayford Perfection’ 13) C. ‘May Shoesmith’ 14) C. ‘Mezzo Magenta’ 15) C. ‘Nantyderry Sunshine’ 16) C. ‘Pennine Oriel’ 17) C. ‘Roy Coopland’ 18) C. ‘Sicardo Orange’ 19) C. ‘Yellow John Hughes’ 20) C. ‘Yogigi Gold’ 21) C. ‘White Margaret’ There are a huge range of chrysanthemums to consider and it can be challenging to work out which varieties you should grow. When choosing a chrysanthemum, here are some of the key things to think about: Hardiness – some chrysanthemums are far hardier than others. Bloom Time – chrysanthemums vary in length of bloom time. Height & Size – of the particular variety you want to grow. Flower Form & Colour – of the specific cultivar. “Where you live in the UK will influence the Chrysanthemum you can grow outdoors,” adds Horticulturist Colin Skelly. “Most are RHS hardiness rating 3 (-5-1ºC )or 4 (-10-5ºC) but some are H2 (1-5ºC), making the timing of blooming essential before the first frosts can be expected.” To help you make up your mind, we’ve come up with this list of 21 options, all of which have been awarded the Award of Garden Merit (AGM) by the RHS. Although this list is just a starting point, I think that the options here could be a great place to start when aiming to choose the right chrysanthemum for you and your garden. 1) C. ‘Allouise’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer / autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: clay, loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 0.5-1m spread This dramatic chrysanthemum is an H3 hardy perennial which grows up to 1.2m tall. It has silvery-pink double flowers which are deeper pink in the centre, born in late summer and early autumn. 2) C. ‘Aluga White’ HARDINESS RATING: H4 FLOWERS: white and yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: loam; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread ‘Aluga White’ is H4 hardy and has masses of white blooms with yellowish centres up to around 6cm in diameter that are borne in early autumn. Bushy perennials, they grow to around 75cm tall. 3) C. ‘Bronze Elegance’ HARDINESS RATING: H4 FLOWERS: bronze and orange FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: clay, loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread H4 hardy, ‘bronze elegance’ is a Korean chrysanthemum, which has double pompon flowers 2.5cm across, in shades which range from light apricot to deep bronze, borne in autumn. The plant grows to around 70cm in height. 4) C. ‘Barbara’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer / autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: loam, chalk, sand; neutral pH SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This charming chrysanthemum is a compact, bushy herbaceous perennial growing to around 45cm in height. It has vivid pinky-purple double flowers which are long-lasting through early autumn. This option is H3 hardy. 5) C. ‘Cassandra’ HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERS: pink and purple FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.5-1m spread SIZE: all soil types; any pH For growing indoors from early autumn to enjoy later blooms inside your home, this is one interesting option. H2 hardy, it flowers in late autumn, with pink double flowers with incurving florets, which grow to around 14cm across. 6) C. ‘Debonair’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: pink and purple FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This compact chrysanthemum is H3 hardy and grows to around 30cm in height. It produces sprays of rosy pink florets, pale pink on the reverse, which are around 5cm across. The double flower heads have overlapping recurved ray florets, born in autumn. 7) C. ‘Enbee Wedding’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: yellow and pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: clay, loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread The excellent ‘Enbee Wedding’ range offers a selection of cultivars in different colours. They grow to around 1.2m in height and are H3 hardy. 8) C. ‘Golden Cassandra’ HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERS: yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): all soil types; any pH SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This indoor chrysanthemum is H2 hardy. It is a tender perennial which has 13cm wide flowers of a lovely golden yellow hue, with florets which are recurved and paler on the reverse. 9) C. ‘Gold Mundial’ HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERS: yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.5-1m spread This charming chrysanthemum is a tender (H2) perennial with flower heads that have protruding domes at the centre formed by inner florets. This is a free-flowering spray chrysanthemum with cherry-gold centres and florets of dull gold, which are paler on the reverse. This plant flowers in the autumn. 10) C. ‘Happy Jogger’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: pink and purple FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: loam; any pH SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This compact H3 hardy chrysanthemum has vibrant deep pink to purple flowers which are borne from early autumn. It grows to around 50cm high. 11) C. ‘Lynn’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: purple FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This half-hardy option has lilac florets, fading to a deeper purple-pink within the centre, and purple colouration on the reverse. It is bushy, with a compact growth habit. This is one of the Reflexed Charm groups of Chrysanthemums. It flowers in autumn. 12) C. ‘Mayford Perfection’ HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERS: orange FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 0.5-1m spread This is a large flowering indoor chrysanthemum, which has large, fully double, loosely spherical flowers in a delightful salmon-orange hue. A late flowering type, it produces blooms from late autumn and is H2 hardy. 13) C. ‘May Shoesmith’ HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread Another large-flowered indoor type that is H2 hardy, this chrysanthemum has double, loosely spherical flowering heads, which are white and up to around 13.5cm across. The plant grows to around 85cm in height. 14) C. ‘Mezzo Magenta’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: loam; neutral pH SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread ‘Mezzo Magenta’ is naturally compact and bushy, growing around 30cm tall and bearing an abundance of pinky-purple, double flowers from early autumn. It is H3 hardy. 15) C. ‘Nantyderry Sunshine’ HARDINESS RATING: H4 FLOWERS: yellow and orange FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: clay, loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This H4 hardy chrysanthemum is an early flowering, outdoor, semi-pom pom type. This herbaceous perennial grows to around 90cm tall and is compact and bushy in form. Little flowers, 3cm wide, are a cheery bright yellow and the inner florets are tipped with a deeper orange-yellow hue. 16) C. ‘Pennine Oriel’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: yellow and cream FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: clay, loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread H3 hardy, this perennial is 1.2m in height, with white-cream flowers 8cm across which are borne in early autumn. The disk florets are tipped with light yellowy colouration. 17) C. ‘Roy Coopland’ HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERS: bronze FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This tender chrysanthemum is an indoor type. It has dramatic bronze flowers which can grow to 15cm across, and the florets, which open from late autumn, are a light greenish-yellow at the bottom and paler on the reverse. 18) C. ‘Sicardo Orange’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: bronze, red and orange FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: loam; neutral pH SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This compact and rounded herbaceous perennial grows to around 50cm tall. It is H3 hardy and bears an abundance of double flowers in the autumn. The flowers have deep dark red to bronze inner florets and paler outer ones in orange hues. 19) C. ‘Yellow John Hughes’ HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERS: yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.5-1m spread This remarkable tender, medium-flowered, indoor chrysanthemum has light yellow, spherical flowers 9cm across which are borne from late autumn. 20) C. ‘Yogigi Gold’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: yellow and gold FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer / autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: loam; any pH SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This H3 hardy chrysanthemum is a compact and upright plant that branches freely. It has golden-yellow flowers which are borne in abundance in the late summer and early autumn. 21) C. ‘White Margaret’ HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: yellow and white FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: clay, loam, sand; any pH SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread This half-hardy perennial has lovely white flowers which grow to around 7cm in diameter. These flowers are yellow-tinged to the interior, with white reverses tipped with yellow. As mentioned above, any list can only ever be highly selective, but the options on this list are all certainly interesting chrysanthemum options for you to consider.
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Pyracanthas Can Be Pruned Relatively Hard To Restore A Neat Framework Of Branches
IN THIS GUIDE Do You Need To Prune Pyracantha? Pruning Free-Standing Shrubs Pruning Hedged Pyracantha Pruning Wall Or Fence Trained Shrubs Can You Prune Pyracantha In Winter? Pyracantha, also known as Firethorn, is an attractive shrub prized for its flowers and the red, orange or yellow berries that follow in autumn and winter. Pyracantha is a good low-maintenance plant that generally requires little care. However, it can be pruned in specific ways; as a free-standing shrub, an evergreen hedge, or to stand against a wall or fence. When thinking about whether, when and how to prune these shrubs can be an important part of their care. According to Horticulture Technician Peter Lickorish: “Its fast-growing nature means that misshapen pyracanthas can be pruned relatively hard to restore a neat framework of branches. “This is best done during active growth, such as April-August, but make sure to check there are no nesting birds inside first, and be prepared to miss one year’s flowering and fruiting.” Do You Need To Prune Pyracantha? This is an easy-going shrub that can, if left undisturbed, grow rather large in the right setting. We have a huge, unusually thornless pyracantha growing in a corner of our property close to (but not trained on) an east-facing stone wall, with an open southern aspect, which is at least 4-5m in height – more like a tree than a shrub. It was here when we moved in and other than the odd prune here and there (and harvesting branches for decoration at Christmas) I do not prune it regularly or pay it much attention at all. It still flowers and produces orange-red berries abundantly. Where it is located, it looks beautiful and does not impinge on other plants. We value it not only aesthetically but for the wildlife it attracts. Birds nest in its branches and in a nesting box we have placed there, and jackdaws and pigeons spend a lot of time on the rooftops nearby. Of course, many pyracanthas will need to be kept somewhat more in check and many are more compact in form and structure. “Theoretically, a hard prune in winter could kill a Pyracantha,” shares Master Horticulturist Peter. “Unlike deciduous plants, evergreens do not expect to lose many leaves over winter, so do not store nutrients and sugars in the same way. Winter pruning requires the plant to draw on these limited reserves.” Whether you need to prune much at all, and how much you need to prune, will depend on the variety you choose and where you choose to grow it. If pruning prior to flowering, be aware that pyracantha flowers mostly on year-old shoots, meaning you should try not to trim away all the previous year’s growth. However, if you need to drastically prune back an out-of-control pyracantha, you should do so – the flowers and berries can be relied upon to return the following year. Similarly, if any of the plant’s shoots have been damaged by fireblight or blackened by pyracantha scab, you should prune away the affected areas. Pruning Free-Standing Shrubs If you are growing your pyracantha as a stand-alone, free-standing shrub, then all you need to do is carry out some very basic maintenance pruning. In the middle of spring, look over the shrub carefully and simply remove any dead, damaged or diseased material. Always wear thick gloves when pruning, to protect your hands from the plant’s large, sharp thorns, and be careful not to disturb any nesting birds. At the same time, you can also remove any branches that are growing in an unwanted direction or which look unsightly because they are distorting the desired shape of the shrub. If the pyracantha is too large and overgrown for its location, you can consider renovation pruning and can expect reliable regrowth if you cut back pretty hard. Pruning Hedged Pyracantha One reason that you might need to undertake more pruning than usual is that you wish to grow pyracantha as a hedge. Pyracanthas can make great hedges, and their prickles can be useful in keeping animals in, or people out. When pyracantha is pruned as a hedge, a neater and more orderly appearance may be desired. To shape pyracantha as a hedge, it is usually pruned 2-3 times between spring and the end of the summer. Most people will prefer, for visual and wildlife appeal, to keep as many berries as possible, but you will almost certainly lose some berries as you seek to keep the pyracantha constrained into a neater hedge form. Pruning Wall Or Fence Trained Shrubs Another time when more specialised pruning is required is when you are growing pyracantha against a wall or fence. A number of pyracantha varieties lend themselves well to being formally trained as espaliers against a wall or sturdy fence, with horizontal branches trained along wires installed into the supporting structure. These pyracanthas, trained to grow against a wall, are pruned each year after they flower. Waiting until after flowering will help to limit the loss of wood on which berries will be produced. After they flower, you should shorten side shoots to within 2-4 buds of the permanent framework of branches and remove any shoots growing inwards towards the wall or fence or outwards away from it. Be careful not to prune out developing berries or spent flowers at this point. Then, in late summer, shorten all side shoots that emerge from the main framework, taking them back to almost the point where the clusters of berries are produced – this is usually 2-3 leaves away from the base of a side shoot. This will expose this year’s berries and encourage flowering and fruiting for the following year. Remember, your choices about where and how to grow certain plants in your garden, as well as the specific varieties that you choose, will have a big impact on how much ongoing work you are going to have to do. If you want a low-maintenance garden where less pruning is involved, growing smaller pyracanthas as free-standing shrubs will make your life easier. However, if you want to consider other forms and specific growing positions, a little pruning is not necessarily too complex and might be worth your trouble. Can You Prune Pyracantha In Winter? The ideal time to prune your plant is in spring, after flowering, as you will be able to clearly see which shoots to leave, and which are old growth that is no longer flowering and berrying. However, you can also prune in winter – just be aware that the plant flowers on year-old shoots, and if you remove all the previous year’s growth, your plant may not bloom very well that spring. “A winter prune will restrict the plant’s growth, while spring or summer pruning is more about maintaining manageable growth,” concludes Peter.
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Propagating Pyracantha: 'You'll Find The Semi-Ripe Cuttings Have A Higher Success Rate'
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Take Healthy Cuttings 2) Prepare Your Pyracantha Cuttings 3) Use Rooting Hormone (Optional) 4) Place Cuttings In Pots 5) Plant Out In Autumn Or Spring Pyracantha can be a beautiful ornamental addition to your garden and also be a boon to the wildlife that shares your space, with its beautiful blooms and berries that serve as food sources as well as a feast for the eyes. If you already have a pyracantha in your garden, you might be able to propagate new plants from your garden from cuttings. Pyracantha is relatively easy to propagate, both from semi-ripe, and hardwood cuttings. Using cuttings for propagation ensures that you will get plants that look like the parent, since though you can grow pyracantha from seed, these will not come true. In other words, they will not turn into plants that look like the plant the seed came from. To grow pyracantha from cuttings: Take semi-ripe cuttings in late-summer or early-autumn. Remove any leaves from the lower portion of the cutting to help the plant focus its energy on establishing roots. Dip cuttings into rooting hormone to improve the chances of them rooting successfully (optional). Place cuttings into pots with a suitable growing medium to develop roots. Plant out cuttings in autumn or early spring for the best chance of successful establishment. Read on for a little more information on this process. 1) Take Healthy Cuttings First of all, identify a mature and healthy pyracantha from which you would like to take cuttings. Cuttings can be taken from pyracanthas any time from around midsummer until late autumn. “Greenwood cuttings can be taken at the same time as semi-ripe cuttings (midsummer to early autumn), but you should find the semi-ripe cuttings have a higher success rate,” says Master Horticulturist Dan Ori. “Hardwood cuttings can be taken from late autumn to midwinter, but midwinter cuttings may get scab that disrupts rooting.” The shoots that you want to cut are those that are fresh, current-year growth, green at the tip and just beginning to go woody and harden towards the base. Aim to cut off the tops of the shoots selected, to a length of around 15-20cm. Make your cut just below a node point where a leaf joins the stem. 2) Prepare Your Pyracantha Cuttings Next, take your cuttings and remove the bottom leaves to leave the lower portion of the stem bare. Aim to leave only 4-5 leaves. 3) Use Rooting Hormone (Optional) Though Pyracantha can take fairly successfully from cuttings without this step, to improve the chances of success you can dip the bottom end of your cuttings into a hormone rooting powder to promote successful rooting. 4) Place Cuttings In Pots Aim to place your cuttings into a growing medium as soon as possible. It is best to place a few cuttings around the edges of a large pot or container and to fill the pots with a moist yet free-draining cuttings compost mix. Water the cuttings well but make sure excess water can drain away freely. Place your cuttings in a greenhouse or in a warm and bright position, with relatively high humidity but somewhere out of direct sunlight. Typically, roots will develop within 8-10 weeks. In spring, you might plant out your cuttings, but generally, these will be potted on to grow and mature until the following autumn. 5) Plant Out In Autumn Or Spring Pyracantha cuttings will typically have developed and matured to the stage where they are ready to plant out around a year or so after they were taken or a little longer. Though unfussy about sunlight and soil, pyracantha will do best when planted out in a moderately fertile location. It can cope with a lot, but waterlogged areas will certainly be less than ideal and the plant won’t have as many berries in deeper shade. You can grow pyracantha as a free-standing shrub, in a hedgerow, or trained against a wall or fence. Pyracantha is one of a number of shrubs that are relatively easy to propagate from cuttings. So, if you see one that you like, why not give this relatively easy method a go?
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30 Houseplants That Thrive In Direct Sunlight With Growing Advice From Jane Perrone
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Aeonium 2) Aloe Vera 3) Avocado 4) Basil 5) Bird Of Paradise 6) Croton 7) Crown Of Thorns 8) Desert Rose 9) Donkey’s Tail 10) Dragon Tree 11) Dwarf Umbrella Tree 12) Mexican Snow Ball 13) Fiddle-Leaf Fig 14) Cape Jasmine 15) Geranium 16) Golden Barrel Cactus 17) Hens And Chicks 18) Hibiscus 19) Jade Plant 20) Jasmine 21) Kalanchoe 22) Kumquat Tree 23) Chinese Money Tree 24) Moon Cactus 25) Nivosa Cactus 26) Papyrus 27) Ponytail Palm 28) Sago Palm 29) String Of Pearls 30) Yucca References When selecting houseplants to brighten up your home, aesthetics should only form part of your decision-making process. Another factor is the amount of natural light the space receives and which plants are capable of coping with those conditions. “In my experience, most houseplant issues are due to a lack of light,” shares Sarah Gerrard-Jones, The Plant Rescuer. “Get the lighting right and your plant stands a much better chance of survival. Just because we think a room looks bright, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is providing your plant with lots of bright light. “Position your plants close enough to a window so that they can sense the light.” If you’re lucky enough to live in a particularly sunny location, you may find that many houseplants have wilted on you in the past. However, that doesn’t mean that all is lost, since there are plenty of varieties which do well in direct sunshine. “A lot of cacti and succulents will be happy in as much sun as you can give them indoors and they are fine if the air in a room is dry,” shares Jane Perrone, a Houseplant Expert. “A lot of them do need a cooler, drier period in winter, so be aware of that when the central heating is on in the cooler months. “The more light you can give them, the better.” Here are some of my personal favourites below: 1) Aeonium BOTANICAL NAME: Aeonium arboreum FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SOIL PREFERENCE: loam or sand; any pH Not only does aeonium achieve the impressive feat of squeezing all five vowels into a seven-letter word, but it also, unusually for succulents, can exceed 90cm in height. “There are Aeonium that grow to 1m or more height and width and those that grow no more than 15-20cm,” shares Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly. “In the height of summer, they may close their rosettes and enter dormancy. “They will re-enter active growth in autumn but you can prevent dormancy by providing some shading on the hottest summer days. “Although drought tolerant, they may also enter dormancy if they dry out in summer.” The small yellow blooms are a nice touch, but it’s the rosettes of waxy, fleshy foliage that are the real draw here. 2) Aloe Vera BOTANICAL NAME: Aloe vera FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: green and yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: loam or sand; any pH Natives of the desert, it’s no surprise that Aloe vera can’t get enough of that heat. Bring some of those sultry vibes into your home with this cheerful little plant, which can easily be propagated through the plentiful pups they produce. In my experience, while they can cope with direct sunlight for most of the year, you do need to watch them in summer as their leaves can begin to scorch in very strong sunlight. Move them into a more shaded spot if you start to find the fleshy leaves of your aloe turning red. 3) Avocado BOTANICAL NAME: Persea americana FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: green FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: loam; neutral pH Avocado plants are surprisingly easy to cultivate from a pit in a cup of water, as I found out to my delight during a lockdown project. While it would be quite optimistic to expect fruit from a homegrown variety, you will be able to coax lush vegetation from this pleasing houseplant with the minimum of fuss. 4) Basil BOTANICAL NAME: Ocimum basilicum FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERS: white and pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: loam or sand; any pH One edible plant that is far from just ornamental is basil. A highly versatile herb, it’s great for adding flavour and colour to salads, soups, pizzas, pasta sauces and more. It’ll also exude an intoxicating aroma in any environment, so make sure you have a plentiful supply on your kitchen windowsill. 5) Bird Of Paradise BOTANICAL NAME: Strelitzia FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: orange, blue and yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SOIL PREFERENCE: chalk, loam, sand; any pH One of the most spectacular plants on this list and indeed in the entire botanical kingdom, the bird of paradise plant is so named for the flowers which resemble the crest of its avian namesake. It won’t produce those famous flowers without sufficient sunlight, however, so find a south-facing window for this beauty. In the UK, you may need to wait a significant number of years for it to flower spontaneously. In fact, some wait many years only for it never to happen – but it is truly a sight to behold (and worth the wait!) when it does take place. 6) Croton BOTANICAL NAME: Codiaeum FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: loam; any pH This colourful sun-lover always puts me in mind of prehistoric climes such as those featured in Jurassic Park or similar films. The variegated patterns of its leaves, alongside the myriad of unusual colours which adorn them, make it a great option for adding intrigue to any sunny corner. 7) Crown Of Thorns BOTANICAL NAME: Euphorbia milii FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: yellow and red FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: chalk, loam, sand; any pH These succulents are so named for their sharp, spiny stems.1 Despite that, their real attractions lie in the tiny clusters of yellow blossoms which are almost invisible against the backdrop of blood-red bracts that last almost all year round. “Euphorbias really love as much sun as you can give them and are great for a sunny spot,” says Jane. 8) Desert Rose BOTANICAL NAME: Adenium obesum FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERS: pink, white and red FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: loam or sand; alkaline to neutral pH The desert rose is another succulent, which may come as a surprise to many people due to the fact that it has no spines or thorns and its leaves are not fleshy like many of its brethren. Instead, water is stored in the bulbous trunk, somewhat reminiscent of a bonsai tree, while the trumpet-shaped red blooms catch the eye. 9) Donkey’s Tail BOTANICAL NAME: Sedum morganianum FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: purple FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer SOIL PREFERENCE: loam or sand; any pH Variously known as donkey’s tail, burro’s tail and horse’s tail depending on which part of the world you live in, this sedum has masses of fleshy leaves which swell with water and resemble a quadruped appendage. They can become quite weighty when full, so choose a sturdy pot to house them. 10) Dragon Tree BOTANICAL NAME: Dracaena marginata FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: white and green FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer FRUIT SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH Despite its fearsome name, this statement plant is more fashionable than formidable. However, it can reach an impressive height of over 2m if allowed to stretch its roots, so consider that when repotting. Other than keeping the soil moist and feeding it biannually, it’ll do well enough on its own. 11) Dwarf Umbrella Tree BOTANICAL NAME: Schefflera arboricola FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen SOIL PREFERENCE: loam or sand; any pH The dwarf variety of this Schefflera is perfect for placing in a sunny spot in your home to add some architectural interest and vibrant greenery to a room. While it will thrive in direct sunlight, too much of a good thing can turn its leaves brown, so keep an eye on its development. 12) Mexican Snow Ball BOTANICAL NAME: Echeveria albicans FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: pink and yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): winter / spring SOIL PREFERENCE: loam or sand; any pH This happy little succulent comes in a variety of shades, from green to grey to even blue and purple. For that reason, it’s become a hugely trendy hit on social media – and there’s no denying its aesthetic attributes, especially if it’s treated to adequate sunlight. 13) Fiddle-Leaf Fig BOTANICAL NAME: Ficus lyrata FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH The oversized leaves and tall stature (around 1.8m) are what immediately capture the attention of this attractive tree, but that’s nothing compared to the 20m height it can reach in the wild. It is more demanding than some other options on this list, but you’ll be pleasantly rewarded for your efforts. 14) Cape Jasmine BOTANICAL NAME: Gardenia jasminoides FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer / autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: clay, loam, sand; acidic to neutral pH Despite its name, gardenia will do just fine indoors and, in fact, its subtropical origins mean that an interior setting is actually preferable in many parts of the UK. The large glossy leaves are complemented by stunning white blossoms, so it’s no surprise it’s increasingly popular with homeowners today. 15) Geranium BOTANICAL NAME: Pelargonium FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: varies FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: chalk, loam, sand; alkaline to neutral pH Geraniums are available in a wide variety of colours, all of which bring vibrancy and joie de vivre to any location. That includes al fresco spots in the summer, so feel free to move your potted geraniums outside. 16) Golden Barrel Cactus BOTANICAL NAME: Echinocactus grusonii FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: loam or sand; any pH Faintly resembling a spiky pin-cushion, the golden barrel is your quintessential cactus. That means it requires very little in the way of water, it doesn’t play nice when you accidentally touch it and yes, it will happily absorb all of the sunlight you can throw at it. 17) Hens And Chicks BOTANICAL NAME: Sempervivum soboliferum FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: green and yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH This mat-forming succulent is so named for the ease with which it self-propagates; over the space of a couple of years, it can form colonies that spread over 50cm in length. The ‘hen’ is the main central rosette, while the multiple offspring (‘pups’) sprouting from its vicinity are the ‘chicks’. 18) Hibiscus BOTANICAL NAME: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERS: varies FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer / autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; neutral to alkaline pH These tropical lovelies have some varieties with flower heads almost 25cm in diameter! While you might not be (and I personally haven’t been) able to lay your hands on a specimen of that size, whichever one you do manage to find will bring vibrancy, energy and a pleasant smell to your home. 19) Jade Plant BOTANICAL NAME: Crassula ovata FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: pink and white FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: loam and sand; any pH In many Asian cultures, Jade plants are thought of as a sign of luck and prosperity, so fill your house with them to encourage financial success. Even if you don’t end up quids in, you’ll have a home full of beautiful and easy-to-maintain greenery. Jade plants range in size from smaller options all the way up to full-size trees. 20) Jasmine BOTANICAL NAME: Trachelospermum jasminoides FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: chalk, loam, sand; any pH Jasmine bears a striking resemblance to gardenia, but while the latter is a shrub, jasmine prefers to climb. Situate it near a trellis or other support structure and let it fill your room with its intoxicating perfume, but just make sure it has enough sunlight to keep it happy. 21) Kalanchoe BOTANICAL NAME: Kalanchoe blossfeldiana FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: red FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SOIL PREFERENCE: loam or sand; any pH There are over 100 different species which fall under the kalanchoe umbrella, but only a handful of them are cultivated in the UK. Like most succulents, it is a little demanding, though it will appreciate full sun and indeed will not flower to its full potential without it. 22) Kumquat Tree BOTANICAL NAME: Citrus kumquat FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer FRUIT SEASON(S): summer / autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH If you’re anything like me, you’ll associate the kumquat with exotic parts of the world and the warm climes they foster. While that’s true to an extent, kumquat trees are among the hardiest of citrus varieties, so you should be able to coax fruit from an indoor plant within a few years. A tangy treat with edible skin to boot!2 23) Chinese Money Tree BOTANICAL NAME: Pilea peperomioides FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: cream, green and pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: chalk or sand; any pH Like the Jade plant, Chinese money trees are revered as capable of bringing fortune to a home if situated in a southeastern location. They boast attractive trunks and large, rounded leaves, which are prone to sunburn if exposed to the midday heat for too long, so keep an eye on your tree if you choose to grow this one. 24) Moon Cactus BOTANICAL NAME: Gymnocalycium mihanovichii FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: pink, green white and yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer SOIL PREFERENCE: sand; any pH Moon cacti are invariably one of the most eye-catching specimens in any garden centre or plant nursery display. With their red globular domes set atop a chunky green spike, they’re a great conversation starter in your home. Interestingly, the two composite parts are actually separate species that have been grafted together to create a new one. 25) Nivosa Cactus BOTANICAL NAME: Mammillaria nivosa FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SOIL PREFERENCE: sand; any pH Nivosa features heaped mounds with densely woolly axils and radial spines. This is a unique plant that will look great in any home. 26) Papyrus BOTANICAL NAME: Cyperus papyrus FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: brown FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer FRUIT SEASON(S): autumn SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH Associated with the first writing scrolls from Ancient Egypt, papyrus loves baking heat and plentiful sunshine. It’ll survive just fine in ambient house temperatures, bringing its lazy sophistication with it, but don’t expect indoor varieties to produce the same flowers as their outdoor counterparts can. 27) Ponytail Palm BOTANICAL NAME: Beaucarnea recurvata FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: all soil types; any pH Although not actually members of the palm family (they belong to the agave tribe and hail from Mexico), ponytail palms do behave in much the same way as their conventional namesakes. This means that as long as they’re treated to an abundance of direct sunlight, they can tolerate a fair amount of neglect in other areas. 28) Sago Palm BOTANICAL NAME: Cycas miquelii FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: brown and yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: loam; acidic to neutral pH Another misnomer, the sago palm hails from the cycad family, not the palm one. Whatever its lineage, it looks like something right out of the Triassic period and will add oodles of character to your home. With its coconut-like bulb atop a chunky trunk and green, feathery foliage fanning out from the centre, it’s a real show-stopper. 29) String Of Pearls BOTANICAL NAME: Senecio rowleyanus FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: white and cream FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: chalk, loam, sand; neutral pH With cascading stems that teem with orb-shaped leaves, this trailing succulent looks magnificent in a sun-facing hanging basket. There are plenty of variations on the theme, too, including a string of dolphins and a string of bananas. As the names suggest, these feature differently shaped leaves but are every bit as attractive. 30) Yucca BOTANICAL NAME: Yucca FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERS: cream and white FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SOIL PREFERENCE: chalk, loam, sand; any pH Everyone’s favourite starter plant, the yucca can attain spectacular heights in the wild, but indoor specimens will probably not exceed 90cm. It benefits most from the full sun but will tolerate partial shade, while its other demands are extremely modest – a fortnightly watering should be sufficient throughout the year. References 1. Sutton, C. (2019, April 20). Real story of Christ’s crown of thorns. News.com. Retrieved March 17, 2023, from https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/real-life/news-life/the-real-story-of-jesus-christs-crown-of-thorns/news-story/ec56fd4a5016c533aabcc08e8bcdd72d 2. McCulloch, M. (2018b, July 2). What Are Kumquats Good for and How Do You Eat Them? Healthline. Retrieved March 17, 2023, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/kumquat
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These Plants With Red Stems Make For A Captivating Garden Design Feature
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Purple Bergenia 2) Common Dogwood 3) American Pokeweed 4) Japanese Barberry 5) Christmas Berry ‘Red Robin’ 6) Purple Amaranth 7) Bromeliad 8) Elephant Bush 9) Winged Spindle 10) Bronze-Leaf Begonia 11) Mountain Pepper 12) Crimson Glory Vine 13) Coral Bark Willow 14) Bloody Stromanthe 15) Wings Of Fire 16) Castor Oil Plant 17) Virginia Creeper 18) Red Osier Dogwood 19) Sorbaria ‘Sem’ 20) Wineberry If you’re looking for plants that specifically bear red stems then this list should make for the ideal catalogue. Red branches can look great in garden displays, adding dramatic colour that can persist even through the winter months with some plants such as Dogwood. “A simple palette of vivid greens and strong reds, from flowers, berries and stems, can be a very powerful design feature and can even give a nod to Japanese gardens,” says Master Horticulturist Peter Lickorish. In this article, I share twenty of my favourite plants with red stems that can be grown here in the UK, as well as some tips on how and where you can plant them. 1) Purple Bergenia BOTANICAL NAME: Bergenia purpurascens HARDINESS RATING: H5 PLANT TYPE: perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread The purple bergenia is the perfect way to kick off this list. The thick red stems from this perennial bear pink, trumpet-shaped flowers in the springtime that are adored by pollinators and should help attract bees and butterflies in masses to your garden displays. Once established, purple bergenias are easy to care for and can be used in lots of displays around your garden. 2) Common Dogwood BOTANICAL NAME: Cornus sanguinea HARDINESS RATING: H6 PLANT TYPE: shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 1.5-2.5m spread Dogwood is a hardy shrub that is known for its colourful foliage, and this common variety is no exception. This plant is particularly stunning over winter when the leaves have died back, revealing an abundance of fiery red branches and stems that make great shelter for lots of wildlife. Cornus sanguinea would make a bold choice for a low-maintenance, informal garden hedge. “The ‘Midwinter Fire’ cultivar is perhaps the best option for a warming display,” says Peter. “To get the best colour on stems, especially for larger cultivars in this species, prune to within 15cm of ground level every 2-3 years in mid spring.” 3) American Pokeweed BOTANICAL NAME: Phytolacca americana HARDINESS RATING: H7 PLANT TYPE: perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer / autumn SIZE: 2.5-4m in height, 1-1.5m spread With pinky-red stems that bear large, oval leaves and racemes of pink and white flowers in the summer and autumn, American pokeweed is a unique shrub that is great for UK gardens for a multitude of reasons. Not only is its foliage beautiful, but it also produces black berries in the autumn that hang from their own red stems, which are an ornamental statement in their own right. If grown in a sheltered location in a clay or loam-based growing medium, this plant would make a delightful addition to any garden. 4) Japanese Barberry BOTANICAL NAME: Berberis thunbergii HARDINESS RATING: H7 PLANT TYPE: shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 1-1.5m spread The Japanese Barberry is a small shrub which only grows up to 1.5m in height and spread, but it can still pack a punch in your garden displays. Its red woody stems are lined with small, rounded leaves that also turn red from around September before falling off and returning as green buds again in spring. A relatively low-maintenance shrub, grow Japanese barberry at the edges of your garden or plant multiple in a row to create a bushy hedge or screen. 5) Christmas Berry ‘Red Robin’ BOTANICAL NAME: Photinia × fraseri ‘Red Robin’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 PLANT TYPE: shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SIZE: 2.5-4m in height, 2.5-4m spread A shrub known for its bright red leaves that turn green as they mature, the red stems of photinia ‘red robin’ are not the only burst of colour that this evergreen will provide if planted in your garden. Like the Japanese barberry, this shrub is also suitable for hedging, but ‘red robin’ can be slightly fussier and will require its soil to have an acidic to neutral pH. However, caring for this photinia variety is definitely worth it, as you will also be rewarded with creamy-white flowers that appear in the spring. 6) Purple Amaranth BOTANICAL NAME: Amaranthus paniculatus HARDINESS RATING: H2 PLANT TYPE: annual FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer / autumn SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread Amaranthus paniculatus, also known as the purple amaranth is a frost-tender annual that produces a flurry of purple flowers during summer and autumn that grow from arching red stems. When grown in a sheltered position that gets plenty of sunshine throughout the day, this floriferous plant can grow up to 2.5m tall. This plant is suited to traditional cottage garden displays but can also be planted in your flower borders or beds. 7) Bromeliad BOTANICAL NAME: Aechmea triticina HARDINESS RATING: H2 PLANT TYPE: houseplant / perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer / autumn / winter SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread Bromeliads are usually grown indoors in the UK and are popular because of their evergreen foliage and long-lasting flowers, which can sometimes bloom all year long. This particular variety is native to Brazil and is not commonly grown here in the UK. However, if you can get your hands on Aechmea triticina, its bright red flowers, stems and leaves are certain to brighten up your displays, regardless of whether you grow it as an annual outside or as a perennial houseplant. 8) Elephant Bush BOTANICAL NAME: Portulacaria afra HARDINESS RATING: H1B PLANT TYPE: shrub / succulent / houseplant FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 1-1.5m spread (IN NATIVE CONDITIONS) Another houseplant, Portulacaria afra, also known as the elephant bush, bears tiny, round green leaves from its thick red stems that have a waxy finish. Although this shrub can reach up to 2.5m tall with a slightly smaller spread, in the UK they tend to not get much bigger than 1m. Make sure that you do not overwater this plant, as it will prefer its loam or sand-based medium to be dry throughout most of the year. 9) Winged Spindle BOTANICAL NAME: Euonymus alatus HARDINESS RATING: H6 PLANT TYPE: shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 1.5-2.5m spread The winged spindle is a medium-sized shrub that has woody red stems, curled green and red leaves and yellowy-green flowers that appear in the spring. Not only that, but this low-maintenance plant also produces colourful berries in the autumn. This hardy shrub can be grown wherever you please, but I’d recommend planting it at the back of your garden borders or in an informal planting scheme. “I love to plant it near water to get double the impact, using its reflection,” adds Peter. “Make sure to give it the shelter it needs for the best autumn colour.” 10) Bronze-Leaf Begonia BOTANICAL NAME: Begonia x benariensi HARDINESS RATING: H3 PLANT TYPE: annual / perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.1-0.5m spread A half-hardy evergreen that is usually grown as an annual in the UK, bronze-leaf begonia produces beautiful pink and red flowers from thick red stems throughout the summer months. With many varieties of begonia fashioning bright red stems, this cultivar stands out thanks to its H4 hardiness rating which means it can withstand cooler temperatures than that of its parent plant. I think begonias look great in container displays and would recommend planting them with other annuals or in their own stand-alone pot. 11) Mountain Pepper BOTANICAL NAME: Tasmannia lanceolata HARDINESS RATING: H4 PLANT TYPE: shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SIZE: 2.5-4m in height, 1.5-2.5m spread A beautiful evergreen shrub, the mountain pepper is one of my favourite picks from this list. With bright red stems that produce an aroma that is similar to that of cinnamon that bear yellowy-pink, star-shaped clusters of slender flowers, it is easy to see why I think so highly of this shrub. Mountain pepper should be grown in acidic soil somewhere in the shade where it will also be sheltered from any harsh winds. It can be grown as a hedge or in a garden bed, but I’d recommend planting it in your garden borders near paths and doorways so you can enjoy its fragrant foliage as often as possible. 12) Crimson Glory Vine BOTANICAL NAME: Vitis coignetiae HARDINESS RATING: H5 PLANT TYPE: shrub / climber FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SIZE: 12m in height, 2.5-4m spread Vitis coignetiae, or crimson glory vine, is a hardy climbing shrub that can reach up to a huge 12m in height. With bright red stems and large leaves that turn red in autumn, this climber is great for injecting a fiery flare into your displays. This otherwise unfussy plant needs an alkaline to neutral soil pH and a sheltered position, making it ideal for growing against a wall where it will also add some colour. 13) Coral Bark Willow BOTANICAL NAME: Salix alba ‘Chermesina’ HARDINESS RATING: H6 PLANT TYPE: tree FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring SIZE: 12m in height, 8m spread Similar to dogwood in that it has bare, colourful branches in the winter months, coral bark willow is a medium-sized tree that has red and orange stems that will brighten up your garden over the darkest stretches. This tree is ideal for hedging but will also work brilliantly in wildlife-friendly gardens, acting as a wonderful shelter for small animals during the winter and a great place for birds to create their nests. “Hard prune this back to a trunk or near ground level every 2-3 years in early spring, for a fresh profusion of highly coloured stems,” shares Peter. 14) Bloody Stromanthe BOTANICAL NAME: Stromanthe sanguinea HARDINESS RATING: H1B PLANT TYPE: houseplant / perennial FOLIAGE TYPE: evergreen FLOWERING SEASON(S): winter / spring SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 0.5-1m spread A houseplant with red stems that stand out against the variegated cream and green leaves, bloody stromanthe is a perennial that also produces lovely orange flowers throughout winter and spring. This evergreen needs to be grown in a slightly acidic, loam-based medium and placed in a location within your home that is kept out of any direct sunlight. 15) Wings Of Fire BOTANICAL NAME: Weigela florida ‘Wings of Fire’ HARDINESS RATING: H6 PLANT TYPE: shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 1-1.5m spread If you’re after a smaller plant that is sure to add some dramatic flare to your beds and borders, then ‘wings of fire’ might just be the one for you. This shrub only reaches 1.5m in height and spread but its red stems bear an abundance of red, orange and bronze leaves throughout the year that are sure to make up for its smaller size. As a relatively unfussy bush, plant this shrub wherever you please, but I think it will look great in shrubby borders with other foliage plants that are perhaps lacking in colour. 16) Castor Oil Plant BOTANICAL NAME: Ricinus communis HARDINESS RATING: H2 PLANT TYPE: shrub / annual FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 0.5-1m spread Another smaller shrub, the castor oil plant is an annual that produces unusual spiky seed pods after flowering that grow in clusters along the plant’s red stems. This frost-tender plant needs to be grown in a sheltered position in full sun, making it a great choice for potting up and placing against the walls of your home near windows and entrances. It is the perfect way to inject ruby tones to the green palette of a tropical garden. 17) Virginia Creeper BOTANICAL NAME: Parthenocissus quinquefolia HARDINESS RATING: H6 PLANT TYPE: shrub / climber FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SIZE: 12m in height, 4-8m spread If you’re looking for a plant that is practically red all over, including its thin stems, then the Virginia creeper might just be for you. With slender leaves that turn a fiery red in autumn, the Virginia creeper, also known as American ivy, is easy to care for once established and will cope in harsh conditions or soils that are less than ideal. Grow this shrub against a wall or trellis at the back of your flowering beds or borders to add a colourful backdrop to your garden displays. Keep it trimmed regularly to prevent it from becoming too invasive however – this is a plant that grows fast and unruly! “I find that regular trimming produces slightly different red tones in autumn, depending on the age of each leaf, adding a textured appearance,” Peter adds. 18) Red Osier Dogwood BOTANICAL NAME: Cornus sericea HARDINESS RATING: H7 PLANT TYPE: shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 2.5-4m spread With white berries that appear in clusters from the red and brown stems in the autumn months, Cornus sericea, or red osier dogwood, is a medium-sized shrub with red stems that are left bare over winter. The second dogwood variety on this list, this fully hardy plant is slightly larger than the first, so if you are looking for a cultivar with more of a spreading habit, perhaps for hedging or natural screening, then this might be the better choice of the two. The cultivar ‘Cardinal’ is especially good for red stems. 19) Sorbaria ‘Sem’ BOTANICAL NAME: Sorbaria sorbifolia ‘Sem’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 PLANT TYPE: shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 1-1.5m spread Sorbaria sorbifolia ‘Sem’ is another shrub with thick red stems that produce colourful leaves that are often tinged with a red flush. The upright stems, which can reach up to 1.5m in height, bear clusters of white flowers that appear from spring. Grow this deciduous shrub in your flower borders and beds or in an informal, low-maintenance planting scheme. 20) Wineberry BOTANICAL NAME: Rubus phoenicolasius HARDINESS RATING: H5 PLANT TYPE: climber / shrub FOLIAGE TYPE: deciduous FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 2.5-4m spread To conclude this list, I’ve chosen a unique shrub that produces red, frilly flowers from equally fuzzy stems during the summer months. Wineberry is a low-maintenance climber that can spread up to 4m underground by its stems that only reach up to 2.5m tall. Over the winter, the bare stems still provide plenty of colourful interest where planted and can also be a great shelter for any wildlife that frequents your garden during the colder months of the year.
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These 14 Houseplants With Purple Leaves Make An Excellent Addition To Any Home
IN THIS GUIDE 1) Rose-Painted Calathea ‘Dottie’ 2) Echeveria ‘Purple Pearl’ 3) Oxalis ‘Iron Cross’ 4) Moses In The Cradle 5) Painted Nettle 6) Persian Shield 7) Sedum ‘Purple Emperor’ 8) Purple-Heart Spiderwort 9) Velvet Plant ‘Purple Passion’ 10) Purple Shamrock 11) Painted-Leaf Begonia 12) Split Rock ‘Royal Flush’ 13) Tiger Stripes 14) Jaw Plant References Houseplants are intended to brighten up a home, so what better way to do so than with these purple-leaved beauties? Purple is not necessarily a colour that occurs in nature with too much frequency, but when it does, you can be sure that the outcome is an eye-catching one. That’s why we’re following on from our list of outdoor purple-leaved plants with this catalogue of similarly coloured houseplants – for a superb, sure-fire way to liven up your home’s interior décor. Whether it’s foliage awash with the deepest shades of purple, variegated leaves that alternate between purple and green or more subtle tinges, fringes and flecks of purple on your plant, we’ve got you covered. Most of the options below are fairly easy to cultivate, but all of them are extremely easy on the eye. 1) Rose-Painted Calathea ‘Dottie’ BOTANICAL NAME: Goeppertia roseopicta ‘Dottie’ HARDINESS RATING: H1A FLOWERS: purple and white FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SUNLIGHT: part shade Native to Brazil, this broad-leaved prayer plant opens up its foliage to the heavens. The topmost side features starkly-veined dark green leaves with a vibrant pink centre, while their underside is a rich purple that’s more visible at night as they close in on themselves. Due to its tropical origins, ‘Dottie’ prefers bright but indirect sunlight, so choose a windowsill in an appropriate location; the darker the leaves, the more UV it will need. It needs constant moisture but hates saturated soil, so water it frequently but sparingly. 2) Echeveria ‘Purple Pearl’ BOTANICAL NAME: Echeveria ‘Purple Pearl’ HARDINESS RATING: H2 FLOWERS: pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SUNLIGHT: full sun With its small but fleshy leaves and delicately purple tones, ‘Purple Pearl’ is an absolute treat to behold, especially in springtime, when the dainty coral-coloured blooms complement the rest of its visual palette. Like most succulents, it prefers full sun, can’t handle colder temperatures and will benefit most from soaking it thoroughly and then letting it dry out completely. “Echeveria will need full sun or it might start to etiolate (stretching to reach more light),” shares Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly. “You also might need to rotate the pot to achieve even growth. In full summer sun, the colours will darken substantially as a stress response and in winter it will become a greener hue as it enters its active growing phase.” Capable of reaching 30cm in height, it’s a breathtakingly beautiful yet compact houseplant to add to your collection. 3) Oxalis ‘Iron Cross’ BOTANICAL NAME: Oxalis tetraphylla ‘Iron Cross’ HARDINESS RATING: H4 FLOWERS: pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer SUNLIGHT: full sun The dark purple triangles at the centre of the four-leaved clover-like foliage give this perennial bulb its nickname since it resembles the Iron Cross of Prussia.1 From June to August, you can enjoy the additional appeal of its attractive flowers, which are either red or pink depending on the type of soil in which it’s grown. Another point in the plus column for the Iron Cross is its versatility. It’ll thrive just as well in full sun as it will in the shade and can adapt to most soil types. Its watering demands are entirely reasonable, making it an easy-to-care-for houseplant. 4) Moses In The Cradle BOTANICAL NAME: Tradescantia spathacea HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer / autumn / winter SUNLIGHT: full sun / part shade A member of the Tradescantia family, Moses in the cradle is characterised by its lengthy lance-shaped leaves, which blend green, red and purple in a mesmerising mix. Devastatingly attractive yet diminutive, the plant rarely exceeds 30cm in height. Its growing demands are modest, though it does prefer stronger sunlight and a stable temperature if possible. It can flower at any time of the year, adding another string to its aesthetic bow. 5) Painted Nettle BOTANICAL NAME: Coleus scutellarioides HARDINESS RATING: H1C FLOWERS: blue FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer / autumn SUNLIGHT: full sun Painted nettles come in a virtually limitless number of varieties. Although it does bear flowers, it’s the foliage which is the real attraction here, as the velvety leaves are lovely to the touch, while the range of variegated colours and patterns make it a delight to behold too. For best results, place your painted nettles in direct sunlight, since their leaves will fade in colour if they are deprived of sunlight. Water evenly, prune regularly and ensure good aeration of the soil to keep your specimen healthy and happy. 6) Persian Shield BOTANICAL NAME: Strobilanthes dyeriana HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERS: blue FLOWERING SEASON(S): autumn SUNLIGHT: full sun / part shade The name of this exotic specimen is something of a misnomer; the leaves are perhaps more reminiscent of arrowheads than shields, while it originally hails from Myanmar, not Persia.2 Nonetheless, the purplish iridescence of its foliage is one of the most attractive qualities of any option on this list. In its youth, the Persian shield will maintain vibrancy and vitality in its leaves but expect this to soften and dull over the years. You can prolong its lustre as long as possible by giving it what it wants, namely plenty of sunshine, warmth and water. 7) Sedum ‘Purple Emperor’ BOTANICAL NAME: Sedum telephium ‘Purple Emperor’ HARDINESS RATING: H7 FLOWERS: pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer SUNLIGHT: full sun ‘Purple Emperor’ belongs to the sedum family, which is also known as stonecrops due to their ability to thrive in poor soils populated by pebbles and rocks. This particular specimen is one of the most eye-catching, boasting dark purple, almost black leaves topped by towering stems and small clusters of bright pink flowers. Purple emperors do just as well outdoors as inside, but in both situations, they’ll prefer sandy or rocky soil. You can water them more often in their first year to ensure they become fully established, but after that, they’ll require less frequent irrigation. 8) Purple-Heart Spiderwort BOTANICAL NAME: Tradescantia pallida HARDINESS RATING: H1C SUNLIGHT: full sun / part shade Another member of the Tradescantia family, ‘Purple Heart’ is characterised by the deep burgundy shades of both its stems and its slender, cupped leaves. While it does produce uniquely attractive clusters of flowers in a range of pinky-purple colours, it’s the foliage that’s the main event. A drought-tolerant species, this plant will survive without too much in the way of maintenance. ‘Purple Heart’ is particularly notable for its profusion of leaves, which look especially attractive when cascading over the rim of a hanging basket. 9) Velvet Plant ‘Purple Passion’ BOTANICAL NAME: Gynura aurantiaca ‘Purple Passion’ HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERS: purple and yellow FLOWERING SEASON(S): winter SUNLIGHT: part shade For a more understated touch of purple, this vine plant is an excellent addition to any home. Its stems and the undersides of its leaves are a deep dark purple, while its bright green foliage is fringed by a purplish tinge and populated by soft, purple hairs. That velvety texture makes ‘Purple Passion’ a pleasure to touch as well as to observe, while its ease of cultivation means it’s ideal for novice or busy houseplant enthusiasts. Keep it well-watered (but not overwatered, since it’s highly prone to root rot) and it’ll remain happy enough. 10) Purple Shamrock BOTANICAL NAME: Oxalis triangularis HARDINESS RATING: H3 FLOWERS: pink and white FLOWERING SEASON(S): summer / autumn SUNLIGHT: part shade This exquisite perennial is a close relative of the aforementioned Iron cross and gains its name from the trio of triangular leaves which adorn each stem. Exceedingly dark in hue, its purple foliage is almost black in colour, making it a dramatic addition to your indoor display. Those dark tones are perfectly set off by its white or lavender blooms, which can appear at pretty much any time of the year. The purple shamrock’s leaves neatly fold up at night like an umbrella, but it’ll spring back with renewed vigour the following morning without fail. 11) Painted-Leaf Begonia BOTANICAL NAME: Begonia rex HARDINESS RATING: H1B FLOWERS: pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): winter SUNLIGHT: part shade Out of the many varieties of begonia, Rex begonia boasts perhaps the most impressive foliage of all. In fact, many growers simply pinch off the underwhelming flowers as they appear so as to redirect all energy towards the production of their stunning, oversized leaves in various shades of purple, red and silver. Rex begonia will survive without too much fuss on the owner’s part, but if you really want it to flourish so you can appreciate its beauty in all its glory, it’s advisable to put in the hard yards on care. That means using a porous compost, a shallow pot, regular fertilisation and constant moisture. 12) Split Rock ‘Royal Flush’ BOTANICAL NAME: Pleiospilos nelii ‘Royal Flush’ HARDINESS RATING: H1C FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer / autumn / winter SUNLIGHT: part shade The ‘Royal Flush’ plant is more commonly known as split rock and it’s easy to see why. The foliage of this curious succulent is reminiscent of two sides of a small pebble that’s been cut in half, revealing a new pair of leaves with each passing year. Atop it all, a daisy-like flower appears in early spring, adding pink, yellow and white colours to the purplish palette below. The plant requires excellent drainage and ventilation alongside plentiful sun and sparse watering. 13) Tiger Stripes BOTANICAL NAME: Kalanchoe humilis HARDINESS RATING: H2 SUNLIGHT: full sun Another succulent, tiger stripes bear large, oval-shaped leaves characterised by swathes of purple in a tiger-striped pattern. It also enjoys purple-green blossoms in the height of summer, but these are small and less showy than its impressive foliage. Capable of reaching almost 1m in height, this kalanchoe’s only hard-and-fast demands are at least six hours of sunlight per day and constant warmth. It will benefit from regular watering during summer but can withstand forgetfulness and even neglect during winter. 14) Jaw Plant BOTANICAL NAME: Tradescantia fluminensis HARDINESS RATING: H1C FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer / autumn / winter SUNLIGHT: part shade The Jaw Plant also belongs to the Tradescantia family and in the wild, it’s often considered invasive. However, those same fast-growing properties make it ideal as a trailing houseplant for a hanging basket inside your home, as its zebra-like leaves cascade over the sides of its container attractively. If left to its own devices, it can exceed 80cm in height, so you might want to prune it back to keep it in check. References 1. Begonia masoniana (Iron Cross Begonia). (n.d.). North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. Retrieved March 17, 2023, from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/begonia-masoniana/ 2. Strobilanthes dyerianus. (n.d.). Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved March 17, 2023, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292523&isprofile=0&basic=%25
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Watch Out For Overly Zealous Pruning Of Potentilla Shrubs Argues Elizabeth Waddington
IN THIS GUIDE Do You Need To Prune Potentilla? When To Prune Potentilla Maintenance Pruning Rejuvenation Pruning Cutting Back In Summer Cutting Back In Spring References Potentillas can be either shrubs or herbaceous perennial plants and there are numerous species and named cultivars that are popular in UK gardens. Potentillas grown in gardens are typically categorised into shrubby and perennial types. Characteristics and care requirements differ depending on which of these two groups we are referring to. Shrubby potentillas are pretty shrubs that can be useful at the front of a bed or border, as a ground cover or to form low hedges in a garden for a summer display, whereas perennial potentillas make attractive cottage garden plants. Pruning requirements are minimal for both of these types of potentilla, so read on to see how you can prune your shrubby or perennial varieties. Do You Need To Prune Potentilla? Shrubby potentillas naturally have a loose, natural form that does not respond well to overly zealous pruning. Often, pruning requirements will be minimal and less is definitely more when it comes to pruning these shrubs. Pruning is typically carried out sparingly for the health of the plant and also to keep things looking neat. A little pruning can be an aesthetic decision. When To Prune Potentilla General maintenance pruning and any neatening, as well as more drastic rejuvenation pruning if desired, is best carried out in the early spring, before the flower buds form. Pruning later is possible, but it will reduce flowering in the current and subsequent years. Maintenance Pruning With an annual pruning regime for shrubby potentilla, the key goals are to remove any dead, damaged or diseased material down to within 15cm of the ground, or to a healthy framework. You can also give the plant a gentle trim all over for neatness. It is important not to prune too hard, as these shrubs have a natural loose and open form that does not lend itself to particularly formal pruning. Rejuvenation Pruning However, if a mature shrub has become leggy, overgrown and unsightly, or if flowering has diminished, harder rejuvenation pruning is possible. “On sandy, infertile soils Potentilla shrubs tend to grow in quite tight, mounded shapes,” says Horticultural Consultant Colin Skelly. “In more fertile, moisture-retaining soils, they can become far more floppy and lax. This is when you might need to be harder with your annual pruning and carry out occasional renovation.” If you wish, you can remove up to one-third of the older stems down to within 15cm of the ground in one year (though flowering will likely be reduced). Over the next couple of years, you can continue this process until all the older portions of the plant have been replaced with new growth. Just make sure that you do not remove more than a third of the plant in one year. Cutting Back In Summer Perennial potentillas can sometimes have a tendency to flop as they grow. One option that some horticulturalists will take is cutting back in late May or early June. Known as the Chelsea chop (because it is carried out around the time of the Chelsea flower show), this can create sturdier plants that won’t be as likely to flop and can delay flowering.1 However, in most gardens, this is far from essential, but you may decide to cut back some or all of your perennial potentilla depending on your own preferences and goals. Cutting Back In Spring Perennial potentillas will naturally die back at the end of autumn before new growth emerges in the spring. Traditionally, some gardeners would cut back perennials like these in the autumn once they die back to keep the garden looking neat. However, tolerating a little wildness over the winter months and leaving dead material in place in a perennial bed can bring benefits for overwintering insects and other wildlife. So, rather than cutting back these and other perennials once the growth dies, it is far better to leave any dead material standing over winter before cutting this back in early spring, just before new growth begins to emerge. References 1. Fowler, A. (2014, May 17). Alys Fowler: the Chelsea chop. The Guardian. Retrieved March 23, 2023, from https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/may/17/alys-fowler-chelsea-chop
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Elizabeth Waddington's 15 Award-Winning Pieris Types With Star Quality
IN THIS GUIDE 1) P. japonica ‘Blush’ 2) P. japonica ‘Bonfire’ 3) P. japonica ‘Carnaval’ 4) P. japonica ‘Cavatine’ 5) P. japonica ‘Debutante’ 6) P. japonica ‘Firecrest’ 7) P. japonica ‘Flaming Silver’ 8) P. ‘Forest Flame’ 9) P. japonica ‘Mountain Fire’ 10) P. japonica ‘Pink Delight’ 11) P. japonica ‘Prelude’ 12) P. japonica ‘Purity’ 13) P. japonica ‘Sarabande’ 14) P. japonica ‘Valley Valentine’ 15) P. formosa var. forrestii ‘Wakehurst’ A go-to shrub for those with acidic soil, Pieris are interesting evergreen shrubs that can deliver year-round interest in a garden. Often prized for their colourful foliage and also for their pretty springtime flowers, these shrubs come in a range of sizes. If you have a suitable spot in your garden with moist but free-draining soil and acidic conditions, then you have a wide range of Pieris to consider. Where there are no suitable soils or where space is limited, smaller Pieris can also be grown in pots. Below, we’ve listed a number of highly regarded Pieris cultivars of different colours and sizes that you might like to consider growing where you live, so read on to get some suggestions to help you begin to narrow down your options. All of the varieties below have received an Award of Garden Merit from the RHS. 1) P. japonica ‘Blush’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white and pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: green SIZE: 2.5-4m in height, 2.5-4m spread This medium-sized Pieris grows around 1.5-2.5m in height and spread. It is evergreen with glossy oval leaves, and white to pale-pink flowers tipped with deeper pink with red sepals. The flowers emerge from deep pink buds in the late winter and spring. 2) P. japonica ‘Bonfire’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white and pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): winter / spring FOLIAGE: green and red SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.5-1m spread A small Pieris that is perfect for small gardens or containers, this option grows around 0.5-1m in height and width. It has small leaves which are brick red when young and mature to dark green. “Pieris ‘Bonfire’ is a fantastic choice for a container, which is ideal if your garden soil does not support acid-loving plants,” says Colin Skelly, a Horticultural Consultant. “This cultivar has early flowers for late winter interest but its real star quality is its foliage, as its name suggests.” Dark pink flower buds form in winter and open to produce sprays of small, white to pale-pink flowers in spring. 3) P. japonica ‘Carnaval’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: cream and pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): winter / spring FOLIAGE: green, white, pink and red SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 0.5-1m spread Growing to around 1.5m tall with a spread of just 1m, this upright shrub has small leaves that are bright vivid red in the spring with pinkish edges. These mature to a deep, dark green with creamy fringes. The buds are also a creamy colour, providing winter interest. These open to offer sprays of small white flowers in spring. 4) P. japonica ‘Cavatine’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring / summer FOLIAGE: green SIZE: 0.1-0.5m in height, 0.5-1m spread Another smaller Pieris that could work well for containers or the front of a border with suitably acidic soil, this option grows to less than 50cm in height, with a spread of 50cm-1m. It has dark, delicate foliage and bears small white flowers in drooping panicles from late spring through to the early summer. 5) P. japonica ‘Debutante’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: green SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.5-1m spread ‘Debutante’ is another compact Pieris, with a height and spread of less than 1m even when fully grown. This attractive dwarf shrub has little dark green leaves and bears creamy-white flowers in upright panicles in the spring. 6) P. japonica ‘Firecrest’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: cream FLOWERING SEASON(S): winter / spring FOLIAGE: green and red SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 1.5-2.5m spread A somewhat larger Pieris that will typically grow to between 1.5-2.5m in height and spread, this option has a bushy form. The leaves are bright red when young, and mature to a deep, dark green. The flowers produced in late winter and spring are creamy-white in hue, hanging in large, branched sprays which make an impressive impact. 7) P. japonica ‘Flaming Silver’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: green, white and red SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 0.5-1m spread This shrub typically grows taller than it does wide, reaching around 1-1.5m in height, and growing to around 1m or so wide. The foliage is bright red, maturing to green, and each leaf has a bold margin of silvery white. In spring, the shrub also produces branched clusters of pretty, creamy-white bell-shaped flowers. 8) P. ‘Forest Flame’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: cream FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: cream, pink, green and red SIZE: 2.5-4m in height, 1.5-2.5m spread A larger, impressive and dramatic Pieris, this option can grow 2.5-4m tall and 1.5-2.5m wide. The foliage starts out bright red when young, fading to pink and cream, before finally turning green once mature. In spring, the plant also produces large branched groups of creamy bell-shaped flowers. 9) P. japonica ‘Mountain Fire’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: green and red SIZE: 2.5-4m in height, 2.5-4m spread Another large Pieris, growing 2.5-4m in height and spread, this evergreen has leaves that start out red, turn a coppery hue, and finally turn a deep green. The flowers, which appear in the middle of spring, are borne in branched panicles and are of a creamy-white hue. 10) P. japonica ‘Pink Delight’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white and pink FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: bronze and green SIZE: 2.5-4m in height, 2.5-4m spread Growing around 1-1.5m tall and wide, this Pieris has foliage that is bronze when young, soon maturing to a deep, dark green. The flowers, which emerge in spring, are pink, fading to white, and are borne in long, drooping panicles. 11) P. japonica ‘Prelude’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: pink and green SIZE: 0.5-1m in height, 0.5-1m spread Another more compact Pieris for small gardens or containers, this option has foliage that is pink when young, which matures to a deep green. In late spring, erect panicles of little creamy-white flowers emerge. 12) P. japonica ‘Purity’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: green SIZE: 1-1.5m in height, 1-1.5m spread This is another relatively small Pieris that can work well in containers as well as in the ground in suitably acidic soil. It grows around 1-1.5m in height and spread. The foliage starts out light green, fading to dark green in summer, and the flowers are quite large, pure white and borne freely on young plants in erect panicles. 13) P. japonica ‘Sarabande’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: white FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: green and bronze SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 1.5-2.5m spread Growing around 1.5 to 2.5m tall and wide, this Pieris has small leaves that are tinged bronze when young and mature to a lush, dark green. The white, urn-shaped flowers are borne in panicles in the late spring. 14) P. japonica ‘Valley Valentine’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: red FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: green SIZE: 1.5-2.5m in height, 1.5-2.5m spread This Pieris also grows to around 1.5-2.5m in height and spread. It has glossy, dark green foliage and offers truly stunning and unique deep pinkish-red flowers which bloom in large, trailing panicles in spring. 15) P. formosa var. forrestii ‘Wakehurst’ HARDINESS RATING: H5 FLOWERS: cream FLOWERING SEASON(S): spring FOLIAGE: red, cream and green SIZE: 2.5-4m in height, 1.5-2.5m spread A large and impressive Pieris that can grow up to 4m in height and spread to 1.5-2.5m, this option has leaves which emerge bright red in spring, turning creamy in colour and then finally turning a deep green. In spring, the creamy-white, urn-shaped flowers are also impressive and are borne in large hanging sprays. Of course, these are by no means the only Pieris that you might grow, but the highly regarded options listed above could be a good place to begin if you are looking to choose one for your garden.
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