Hardy Geraniums Updated

Hardy Geraniums are adding the most colour to my garden at the moment, although some are coming to an end and will be cut down to regenerate growth, and hopefully, a second flush of flowers. All these pictures are of plants I have currently or have grown, and photographed, in the past.

There is always confusion when talking about geraniums, the colourful plants that we use as summer bedding are actually pelargoniums the plants that we are looking at here are from the genus Geranium and are generally hardy perennials ranging from the small “alpine” types to probably the most useful border and ground-cover plants available. There are many species, hybrids and cultivars available but the flowers generally range through shades of blue, purple, pink and red with some white forms thrown in.

The Big Blues.

The thing to remember about geraniums is that they are a promiscuous lot enabling the plant breeders to have a field day when looking for new seedlings, many of the parent plants being British natives or those which have naturalized here. The main aim with border geraniums was to develop plants which will flower for long periods or at least have two flushes, and to increase flower size.

Geranium ‘Rozanne’ illustrates just how random selection can be. Rozanne has won many prestigious awards including the public vote for Chelsea Plant of the Centenary for the decade 1993-2002. It flowers for long periods and is very attractive to bees and other insects, the almost perfect plant and a big commercial success yet it was a garden find that luckily was spotted by keen gardeners and then passed on to professional growers. It is believed that it is a naturally occurring hybrid of G. himalayense, the Himalayan geranium, and a cultivar of G. wallichianum‘Buxton’s Variety.’

G.’Eureka Blue’ is a seedling of G.’Orion’ which in turn was a seedling from G.’Brookside‘ which is a hybrid between G. clarkei ‘Kashmir Purple’ and G.pratense.

Johnson’s Blue or G.x johnsonii ‘Johnson’s Blue’ is thought to be a cross between G.himalayense and G.pratense our own Meadow Cranesbill, so you can see how bringing plants together from all over the world goes to produce the hybrids and cultivars that we see today.

Rather magnificent veining of Geranium x magnificum ‘Blue Blood‘ which is a variant of the original cross: G. ibericum x G. platypetalum.

Geranium ‘Brookside’ is officially violet/blue so I am including it. Another “Big Blue” this is an interspecies cross: G. clarkei ‘Kashmir Purple’ x G. pratense.

Geranium himalayense is a specie geranium and the first to flower with me.

Geranium himalayense ‘Derrick Cook’

Geranium himalayense ‘Derrick Cook’ is a more unusual white form of G.himalayense.

Geranium ‘Light Dilys’

‘Light Dilys” is a sport of Geranium ‘Dilys’ which was an Alan Bremner introduction. It looks like Geranium sanguineum is probably in the mix.

Geranium macrorrhizum

Geranium macrorrhizum is a semi-evergreen perennial growing to about 2′ with attractive fragrant foliage which is useful for under-planting trees and shrubs as it is tolerant of some shade and dry soils.

Geranium nodosum

Geranium nodosum has a sprawling habit which makes it ideal for ground-cover particularly in a woodland setting where it will tolerate dry shade.

Geranium ‘Orkney Cherry’

‘Orkney Cherry’ is an outstanding plant from geranium breeder Alan Bremner who has made many contributions to the geranium world. Bred in the Orkneys its deep green foliage turns to bronze as the year goes on contrasting with the delicate pink flowers which are present from early summer onward. Semi-evergreen.

Geranium oxonianum

**Geranium x oxonianum ‘Katherine Adele’**

The specie name x oxonianum is given to all crosses between G.endressii and G.versicolor. The parent plants cross-fertilize readily and the resultant hybrids are fertile which allows a myriad of cultivars to be developed.

Geranium × oxonianum ‘Wargrave Pink’ is probably my favourite geranium, it grows strongly, is tolerant of a wide range of conditions and flowers for at least six months of the year. Another reason I like it is because it is a lovely clear pink and a welcome change from all the blues and purples.

Geranium × oxonianum f. thurstonianum ‘Southcombe Double’ to give it its full title, starts off with nice double flowers at the start of the season but tends to lose this attribute later on. Mine succumbed to the dreaded Vine Weevil grub.

Geranium x oxonianum ‘Dusky Rose’ is a new. long flowering cultivar, but does not respond well to dry conditions.

Geranium ‘Patricia’

Geranium ‘Patricia‘ is another cultivar from Alan Bremner and is the result of Geranium endressii x Geranium psilostomen. I know this one will produce flowers through the summer.

Geranium phaeum

Geranium phaeum is a striking upright perennial which is useful in a woodland setting as ground-cover as it will grow in shade. The deep purple flowers of ‘Samobor’ are particularly attractive but there is a white form which shows up well in a shady spot.

Geranium pratense

**Geranium pratense var ‘Striatum’ (‘Splish Splash’**)

Geranium pratense the Meadow Cranesbill is an important contributor to the geranium gene pool and crops up as a parent of many modern hybrids, its upright habit and extreme hardiness are desirable attributes. Along with its roll as a specie to cross with, many cultivars have also been developed from selective breeding.

Geranium ‘Galactic’ or to give it the full title Geranium pratense var. pratense f. albiflorum ‘Galactic’, poor thing! It sat in the garden unrecognised, until I found an old label that had been disregarded a few years ago. I am always hesitant when identifying geraniums, as the variations are often very slight. This has led to a growing problem of, plants offered for sale, being wrongly labeled. Best left to the specialists.

Geranium pratense ‘Hocus Pocus’ has striking bronze/purple foliage.

Geranium pratense var ‘Striatum’, commonly known as ‘Splish Splash’ has an infinite number of variations in the flower markings. It had a period of being exceptionally popular a few years ago.

Geranium pyrenaicum

The Hedgerow or sometimes Mountain Cranesbill has flowers which are distinctly different from most geraniums with deeply indented petals giving the illusion of a higher number than normal. It has naturalised itself in the UK where it can be found growing mainly in hedgerows. I have seen it described as coarse but I feel that does this lovely little flowering plant an injustice, it is a prolific seeder and crops up everywhere which, to me, only adds to its charm, probably not so much if you like a nice orderly garden.

Geranium renardii

The Caucasian Cranesbill is a little unusual, it forms clumps of velvety, wrinkled, scalloped leaves which change colour as they age, topped by heavily veined flowers. Needs a bit more care than most, a sheltered well-drained sunny site is best.

Geranium sylvaticum

The Woodland Cranesbill is a beautiful little plant ideal for under-planting trees and shrubs, tolerates shade but prefers a moist soil. Found in damp meadows and open woodland in its native habitat, it is also found growing wild in the UK. The name really says it all when it comes to the plant’s growing requirements, the Latin sylvaticum actually means of woodland.

Geranium versicolor

The Pencilled Geranium gets its name from the veined flowers and is one of the parents of the x oxonianum hybrids. This beautiful little plant is semi-evergreen and can tolerate some dryness and shade although it thrives in good moist border soil in a sunny position. Ideal cottage garden plant.

Geranium wlassovianum

Geranium wlassovianum has a long flowering period which in addition has sprawling foliage which changes colour through the year, unfortunately this can’t be seen in the picture. Found in damp grasslands in its native habitat, it grows well in any good loam and can tolerate some shade.

Hardy Geraniums Culture

With such a large genus it is impossible to be specific, however in general terms many are semi-evergreen and have either a clump forming, trailing or creeping habit. The single flush types can be cut down after flowering which hopefully will induce a second flush. With the others I tend to leave the old foliage on over winter and cut down in the spring but this can be done after flowering, in autumn, if one prefers. Pretty much all geraniums are happy in a good moist but well drained loam in a sunny position although some are more shade and slightly arid tolerant than others. Propagation is by seed for those which come true, by cuttings, or more usually division, in the garden. For those plants which have to be vegetatively propagated to come true best to buy online from a specialist nursery unless you are lucky enough to have one near you.

Geraniums for Glass

Why bother you might ask, this plant was from a packet of seed I inadvertently bought. The Maderian Cranesbill is the largest of the geraniums, it is biennial and can reach 5′ before flowering in its second year. It may survive in the warmest of gardens but there is little chance of that happening in the North of England. The plant threw out ariel roots from the crown down the outside of the pot forming a support some of which I, in my ignorance, cut off, however the plant survived and flowered.

The Canary Island Cranesbill is an evergreen perennial which needs a warm garden to survive in the UK. Very similar to G.maderense which, at one time, was thought to be a form of G.palmatum until it was identified as a separate species.

Hardy Perennials (Part 5) (Updated)

Kirengeshoma

Kirengeshoma palmata or Yellow Wax Bells is a member of the Hydrangea family from Japan and the adjacent Chinese mainland. Needs a shady spot on lime-free moist soil making it an ideal woodland plant.

Lamium

Lamiums or Dead Nettles are found throughout Europe and North Africa. They are robust plants and can tolerate dry and often shady conditions. Lamium maculatum is an excellent ground-cover subject which spreads by throwing down roots from its trailing stems, Lamium orvala however is more upright in its growth.

Leucanthemum

Shasta Daisies sometimes wrongly called Marguerites, are an outstanding border perennial and cottage garden plant. Leucanthemum x superbum has an interesting history in that it is the result of several inter-species crosses resulting in a triple-hybrid that was then crossed with a species from another genus producing an inter-generic hybrid. They thrive in any good garden soil in sun or part-shade, attract bees and other insects and make good cut-flower subjects, what more could one ask from a plant?

Lewisia

One of my favourite plants from my alpine growing days lewisias are actually a tap-rooted succulent from the mountains of California and as such, although winter hardy, will not tolerate damp conditions. I have found they are best planted in a very gritty mix on a slope or in a rock garden crevice. They are very rewarding subject, the flowers coming in a wide range of colours which stand out well against the dark green strap-like leaves and make an excellent plant for the alpine house.

Ligularia

Ligularias are tall hardy herbaceous perennials mainly from China. They make a bold statement in the border with their striking foliage (particularly ‘Desdemona) and bright yellow flowers. They are moisture lovers and as such do well round the pond or stream side.

Lithodora (Lithospermum)

Another favourite from my “alpine days” when it was known as lithospermum. Lithodoras are a widespread genus but come principally from the USA. They make good edging plants particularly around pathways and are a staple of the rock garden. They require acidic, moist but free-draining soil in either sun or partial shade.

Lobelia

Quite different from the lobelia bedding plants which we are all familiar with Lobelia tupa is a woody upright plant growing to around 6′. It is a native of Chile so only truly perennial in warm gardens in the UK where it will tolerate quite dry conditions. I grew my plants from seed and managed to get a couple of winters out of them without protection. Another lobelia of merit is Lobelia cardinalis which is very similar in appearance but much hardier hailing from right through the Americas including Canada.

Lupinus

One of the most popular garden plants lupins are particularly associated with the cottage garden. They can easily be propagated from seed or by careful division. ‘Tequila Flame’ is an example of a popular strain of cultivars but I have included L. nootkatensis as a good illustration of the difference between a typical specie plant and its more sophisticated cultivar. L.nootkatensis is quite interesting, a native of N.America where it is found even in Alaska it was introduced into Iceland to help against soil erosion because of its ability to fixate nitrogen but is now listed as an invasive species.

Lysichiton

The two different species of Skunk Cabbages shown come from two different locations. L.americanus as the name implies comes from the Pacific Northwest of the USA. whereas L.camtschatcensis, again the clue is in the name, is from Eastern Russia and Japan. Typically found in water meadows in their natural habitat they are often grown in cultivation in large estate gardens as marginals but need a lot of room as they are both rather invasive. A preferred form Lysichiton x hortensis which is a cross between the two is more appropriate for the garden, particularly as the obnoxious scent is not as pronounced. These pictures were taken at Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens, Manchester.

Lysimachia

Lysimachias are surprisingly a member of the primula family and are generally to be found in damp areas across the Northern Hemisphere. Some species are known as loosestrifes such as L.punctata the Garden Loosestrife which is a common garden plant. ‘Firecracker’ is quite striking with its yellow flowers contrasting well with the purple foliage but beware it can be quite invasive. L.ephemerum has a rather loose upright habit and is attractive to bees and other insects. ‘Beaujolais’ is a popular addition to the garden with its deep red flower spikes contrasting well with the grey-green foliage but is generally short lived.

Mukdenia

A useful perennial for the woodland planting Mukdenia rossii hails from China. Similar to heucheras in habit its leaves will take on red shades in the autumn.

Myosotis

The forget-me-not is a plant well known to everyone, M.sylvatica (the woodland forget-me-not) is cultivated throughout the temperate world and has produced hundreds of cultivars, many of which are used in spring bedding. Although a short-lived perennial it will seed itself everywhere which makes it more of a permanent feature.

Hardy Perennials (Part 4) – Updated

A further selection of plants that I have grown and photographed.

Francoa

Sometimes known as the Wedding Flower, Francoa sonchifolia is an evergreen hardy perennial from Chile which flowers mainly during late summer. Does best in a light soil in partial shade. In colder areas the foliage may die back during the winter months.

Gallium

Sweet Woodruff, Gallium odoratum, is a useful plant to use for ground-cover under trees and shrubs. It is particuarly useful in a shady spot particularly in wet soil. A British native it bears its small white flowers from late spring.

Gentian

When I used to specialise in alpines gentians were one of my go-to genera. The blue is only rivalled by such as meconopsis, and plants like the popular Gentiana sino-ornata and Gentiana acaulis were a must. In the border Gentiana asclepiadea displays the same striking blue trumpets but born on 12′ arching stems. It is a native of open woodland and meadow in Central Europe so prefers a moist soil with a little shade.

Geum

Avens make ideal plants for the front of the border and are a staple of cottage gardens. Geums are another genus which the plant breeders have exploited to the full, developing many attractive strains from the colour palette of shades of yellow, orange, pink and red. Grows in any good border soil in a sunny position. Herb Bennet or Geum urbanum is a pernicious weed and one-time bane of my life, it seeds itself into the garden and is difficult to eradicate once it has established itself in some shady moist corner, does not pull up easily and has to be rooted out.

Gunnera

Gunnera manicata or Giant Rhubarb is typical of the genus, large specimen plants which do well at the waterside. I have seen these following the line of a stream in Southern Ireland and at over 6′ in height they are quite an impressive sight. Just the opposite is Gunnera manicata, a low growing, creeping rhizomatous plant with rounded glossy green leaves. It hails from the southern countries of South America and the Falklands. Its common name is Devil’s Strawberry from the red fruits it bears , however this never happened for me.

Helianthemum

Helianthemums or Rock Roses are a valuable addition to the front of the border or large rock garden. Helianthemums are in fact low-growing shrubs but I thought I would include them in this section. It is a native of Europe, where the specie plant is usually found growing on chalk in full sun. An evergreen plant, it can be cut back during the growing season if it gets out of hand.

Helianthus

Obviously an annual, but included here because they are excellent border plants, Sunflowers are easy and fun for both children and adults to grow. The ‘Moon Walker’ shown was just under 9′ in height. A bit of trivia, they are a member of the aster family which, perhaps, not surprisingly, includes the Jerusalem artichoke.

Hellebores

One of the best and most showy plants for under-planting trees and shrubs or any shady spot with moist well-drained soil. The species such as H. argutifolius, the Corsican Hellebore, (syn. Helleborus corsicus) and H. foetidus, the Stinking Hellebore are easily raised from seed and will in fact seed themselves around. The cultivars of Helleborus orientalis, which result from micro-propagation, must be bought as plugs or plants.

Hemerocallis

Daylilies are east to grow on virtually any soil type in sunshine, flowers are produced from June to September and although they only last a day, follow in quick succession. This is another plant which has been a subject of intensive plant breeding and thousands of cultivars are available.

Hesparis

Hesparis matronalis, Sweet Rocket or Dame’s Violet is a biennial or short-lived perennial member of the brassica family and a useful cottage garden plant. It has scented flowers which are also attractive to bees and insects and will seed itself forming a naturalised drift in an informal setting

Heuchera

Coral Bells or sometimes Alum Root is a valuable semi-evergreen foliage plant for the border and containers. The flowers are largely insignificant but they come in a large range of leaf colours and shapes. They are woodland plants from North America so are best suited to a moist light soil in partial shade. One thing I have discovered is that they do not like being crowded. Their number one pest is vine weevil which seems to find them particularly attractive.

Heucherella

Heucherella is a garden hybrid between two genera, that of Heuchera and Tiarella. They are evergreen and grown for their foliage requiring much the same conditions as Heucheras, moist soil in partial shade.

Hieracium

Hieracium aurantiacum, Hawkweed is fine in poor conditions where its growth can be restricted, I had it in my old garden where it brightened up a shady spot on very poor soil where it was fine, but never, ever, let it loose in a good border! I am currently trying to eradicate it from my front garden where it appeared two years ago, it is not easy! Spreads with runners (stolons), hence another common name fox-and-cubs, and wind-borne seed. Reclassified as Pilosella aurantiaca.

Hosta

Hostas or Plantain Lilies are versatile Asiatics which will grow in shade and damp conditions although most are happy in full sun as long as they are kept moist. They come in a range of colours and sizes from the tiny ‘Mouse Ears’ to the giant ‘Empress Wu’. Hostas rose to popularity during the 2000’s when they caught the attention of the plant breeders and consequently many cultivars are available. Not only do they make an excellent plant for the open garden they are also ideal for growing in large containers. Number one enemy is slugs.

Houttuynia

Houttuynia cordata ‘Chameleon’ is generally the form which is grown, an attractive and unusual low-growing perennial it is ideal for ground-cover in large boggy areas but beware, anywhere else, it becomes an out and out thug!

Epimediums Re-published.

For the last ten years or so I have been increasingly in love with this genus of beautiful flowering plants. They are so adaptable, some more than others, to what are best described as “difficult” conditions some members of the genus have actually seemed to thrive for me rather than just tolerate dry shade which is one of the most difficult areas to cater for. There are both evergreen and deciduous species many with colourful leaves particularly when just emerging in the early spring and sometimes again in the autumn. Many variations are now available sporting different flower combinations giving a wide range of “mini-orchids” to choose from.

Deciduous cultivar Queen Esta prefers a moisture retentive soil although I have grown it within a few feet of the base of a birch tree as shown in the picture without any trouble, however, during very dry spells, the area received some watering.

Much as I like the flowers of Epimedium x rubrum I have never grown a robust specimen and I normally don’t have a problem with epimediums. In fact the new plant I have now is not doing well compared with its companions. This plant is evergreen and although preferring moist soils should withstand drier conditions.

**Epimedium x warleyense ‘Orangekonigin’**

Epimedium x warleyense from the legendary Miss Willmott’s garden was the result of a cross between two western species, the cultivar ‘Orangekonigin’ is a fairly recent introduction. Seems to thrive in either moist or dryish soils. Unfortunately the new foliage pictured had been visited by Mr. Slug!

I am not sure if this actually is E.davidii but the combination of the yellow spider-like flowers and the glossy toothed leaves makes for a really useful plant. I had this in my mind as E.rossii but it could have been a case of word association as I knew someone called David Ross, who knows? E.davidii is from China and therefore prefers moist conditions although, again, the plant pictured, which thrived, was growing in fairly dry shade.

E. grandiflorum ‘Lilafee’ is a cultivar from the same stable as ‘Orangekonigin’. The lilac coloured flowers are suspended over glossy leaves with toothed edges, seems to grow best in moist conditions.

Delicate flower spikes over copper foliage which tends to green up during the summer only to revert to copper again as winter approaches. Although evergreen the foliage does tend to look rather tatty by the spring.

Neat little plant growing to about 8″, delicate pure white flowers hang off wiry stems which are reddish in colour. prefers a moist spot to thrive. The new leaves can give some good colour.

It is a matter of preference when or if one decides to remove the old foliage. Personally I prefer to leave it on until the spring and then remove it just as the new foliage and flower stems are appearing, being careful not to cause any damage to the new growth. This allows a good view of the flowers and the colours of the new leaves. Leaving the foliage intact can detract from the display in those types which carry their flowers closer to the base of the plant.

All plants grown and photographed by myself unless otherwise stated.

Hardy Perennials (Part 3) Re-published

Dicentra

Now Lamprocapnos spectabilis, Bleeding Heart has become a popular addition to the cottage garden, its unusual flowers born on arching stems over fern-like foliage make an attractive show in early spring. Although it is one of the first border perennials to show it is worth noting that it is one of the first to die back in early autumn, so tends to look better in an informal setting. Thrives in any good moist soil in sun or partial shade but it does not respond well to being moved. There is a yellow leaved form available.

An unusual member of the Dicentra genus is the climbing D.scandens, a half-hardy climber I grew from seed. Unfortunately the botanists have really done a number on the Dicentra genus which is now split into four different genera. D.scandens is now Dactylicapnos scandens! Why are the new names nearly always more difficult to remember and pronounce than the old ones?

Dierama

Dierama pulcherrimum, Angel’s Fishing Rods are beautiful, evergreen perennials for an informal setting. They have arching flower stems covered in funnel shaped flowers in a range of shades of pink/purple and white over grass-like foliage. They prefer a sunny sheltered spot in moist soil and are another plant that does not like being moved although they actually grow from corms. Personally I have struggled to grow them and have only managed a few flowers at best, probably because my garden was too cold and damp. A member of the Iris family from South Africa there are many species and cultivars in cultivation including the well established Slieve Donard hybrids bred in N.Ireland.

Digitalis

Digitalis or Foxglove is a genus of both biennial and short lived perennial plants. The native Digitalis purpurea is common everywhere and well known, however some of the species and hybrids are less seen. Broadly speaking, being woodlanders, they all prefer a moist soil in dappled shade although D.purpurea seeds itself almost anywhere and I have had an excellent plant growing from a shady rock crevice in the past. Pam’s Choice is a naturally occurring garden hybrid found by a keen amateur gardener.

Draba

Drabas are alpine members of the brassica family and originate from Central Europe and even the UK, they are cushion or mat forming plants, the most common garden specie being Draba aizoides. As with most alpines they like a gritty open soil in a sunny position. The plant pictured above was grown from a “lucky dip” collection of society seed out of curiosity.

Epimediums

Find my post dedicated to Epimediums here.

Epipactis hardy orchid

I have included this for its novelty value, possibly Epipactis helleborine, I am no expert when it comes to orchids, just seeded itself into my ‘woodland’ garden, flowered and disappeared.

Eryngium

Eryngium giganteum or the Giant Sea Holly is colloquially associated with Miss Willmott of Warley Place, who by all accounts was a formidable lady, because of a story in which she was said to scatter the seed of the eryngium in any garden that she visited that she considered to be dull. Unfortunately the story has been debunked in recent years. Eryngiums are basically thistles and require a sunny spot in well drained but moist light soil to grow well. There are several cultivars available ranging from silvery white to steely dark blue.

Eupatorium

Common name Joe Pye Weed, this is a fantastic plant for adding height and late colour to the border, growing to over 6′ its purple flower heads remain until the first frosts. This is one plant that I have introduced to my new garden, late to surface, its flowers have been covered in butterflies and other insects since the end of June and it is still going strong.

Eupatorium rugosum ‘Chocolate’ is a different plant altogether smaller in stature with dark green/red leaves and contrasting fluffy white flower heads it is rather striking. Now reclassified as Ageratina altissima which just doesn’t have the same ring to it somehow.

Euphorbia

Euphorbia or Spurges are a massive and diverse genus ranging from annual weeds to trees, with shrubs and even succulents in between. The plant above is a typical garden cultivar the many species and cultivars have a range of colours including acid green and even orange. A well known member of the genus is the popular Christmas plant the Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima). The plant that is getting all my attention at the moment is the annual garden weed Euphorbia peplus, it only appeared a couple of years ago and is proving to be a nightmare! All of them, that we are likely to come in contact with, have a toxic sap which can cause painful blisters on someone who is sensitive.

Six on Saturday 27/9/2025

I’ve been missing for a few weeks as, to be frank, I had very little to show without constant repetition. The main show now is the Eutrochium maculatum Atropurpureum Group which, despite my earlier fears, when there were hardly any butterflies to be seen, has done its job. This year the buddleias were covered in Peacock Butterflies and then there was a gap even though Joe Pye was in flower. Now there are plenty of mainly Red Admirals to be seen, when the sun comes out. I am assuming it is to do with the hot dry summer, but I have not seen so many different species of bees as I have this year either. Another new visitor attracted to an old honeysuckle is the Hummingbird Hawk Moth. It is easy to spot as it jinks about, but much harder to photograph!

Eutrochium maculatum Atropurpureum Group or Eupatorium maculatum ‘Atropurpureum’ or Eupatorium maculatum Atropurpureum Group or Eupatorium purpureum ‘Atropurpureum’ or Eupatorium fistulosum ‘Atropurpureum’ or Eupatorium purpureum var. atropurpureum according to the RHS, or just plain old Joe Pye Weed, between two Phyllostachys aureas.

Flutterbies. People ask “why do you have such a large plant in so small a garden?” What you see is why. I even have another one in the even smaller front garden. I’m happy to think my garden has become a butterfly oasis in the wilderness surrounding me.

I can never make my mind up about Persicaria microcephala ‘Red Dragon’. I just think the leaf colour could be brighter. I don’t think its sprawling habit is for everyone, but it does have an AGM.

This plant of Actaea simplex ‘Brunette’ suffered very badly from the drought, all the flower spikes, bar this one, drooped never to recover. you can see the brown crinkled leaves to the right of the photo. Also known as Cimicifuga ramosa ‘Brunette’. I look at Actaea rubra and wonder how they can be related.

What’s left of my begonias. The other, more exposed, baskets were finally decimated by the torrential rain and wind that we had last Saturday. This one is in a very dark spot, lacking nutrients, and is definitely running out of steam. I grow these every year from plugs as I get little in the way of sun on this side of the house. Begonia Illumination ‘Apricot Shades’.

Sedum spectabilis ‘Autumn Joy’ or Hylotelephium telephium ‘Autumn Joy’. From Sedum to Hylotelephium please make it stop!

This meme is hosted by Jim Stevens who is to be found with all the details and links to plenty of other blogs to enjoy at Garden Ruminations.

Hardy Perennials (Part 2) – Updated

More plants grown and photographed by myself unless otherwise stated.

Bergenia

Common name Elephant’s Ears, bergenias are easy to grow and will thrive in good, deep, well drained loam in sun or shade, but will also tolerate dry soils. Excessive damp can cause them to rot. Basically an evergreen, bergenias are early flowering and can sometimes be damaged by frosts, keep the plant looking its best by removing dead or damaged leaves.

Borage

I love this herb, Borago officianalis is really an annual but I have included it here because it self seeds and generally reappears in the same spot every year. Definitely a plant for a sunny spot, will not perform in shade or on wet soils. Not only are the flowers a striking shade of blue but they are set off by the fine hairs that cover the stems and sepals. The foliage has a cucumber scent and both flowers and leaves are edible and have medicinal and culinary uses. A white form is also available and sometimes crops up among the seedlings.

Brunnera

Brunnera

A plant for cool shady conditions which will grow in moist soils brunneras have very attractive leaves and blue myosotis-like flowers and look well at the front of a shady border.

Bupleurum

A bit of an oddity Bupleurum is an unusual plant for the herbaceous border. Found in Central Europe and even the UK, it will grow in virtually any well drained soil in full sun or partial shade. The plant shown was grown from seed, the cultivar normally offered for sale is Bupleurum longifolium ‘Bronze Beauty’.

Caltha

The Marsh Marigold or King Cup is a plant for a boggy place and can be grown as a marginal where it will thrive. It overwinters with its buds just below the soil surface from where both flowers and leaves erupt together early in the spring. A member of the Buttercup family, it is an invaluable plant for early colour.

Campanula

Bellflowers are a popular, generally easy to grow, genus ranging from arctic alpine plants as cushions or scrambling over the ground to tall border perennials. Although relatively easy, campanulas are not good with winter wet and some species can be quite invasive such as Campanula poscharskyana from Siberia. Some of the showy border hybrids such as Campanula ‘Sarastro’ can have disproportionately large flowers and will need support. Propagation is from seed for species plants, buying in most cultivars, or division in the garden.

Celandine

Ficaria verna subsp. verna or Lesser Celandine is my favourite ‘weed’. Growing from persistent bulbils, this native member of the buttercup family is definitely not everyone’s cup of tea. In a damp woodland setting, such as I had, it makes a wonderful very early spring flowering plant, providing an early source of nectar for the bees, however, in a more formal setting, it is definitely to be discouraged.

Chaerophyllum

This Central European plant is similar to Cow Parsley but much more delicate in appearance, easy in a moist but not waterlogged soil. Personally I think this is a really useful border plant, the fernlike foliage is apple scented and the umbels of small flowers are a great attraction for pollinators even in late summer.

Chelone

Chelone obliqua or Turtlehead is a cottage garden plant which thrives in any good well drained garden soil. It has dark green leaves which unfortunately do not contrast too well with the purple flowers. There is however, a white form available. It is a late flowerer so provides some colour into the autumn. This plant was grown from seed, the white form is probably best obtained from a good nursery.

Convallaria

Lily of the Valley used to be seen in most gardens but has gone out of fashion over time. A plant for shady woodland or spreading under shrubs its distinctive flowers give off a very strong scent which can then be followed by berries. There is a pinkish form available. Although popular for its ease of cultivation and scent I think it is possibly too invasive for today’s way of gardening.

Corydalis

Corydalis or Fumitory are generally shade lovers, ideal for a woodland setting, which flower in varying shades of blue to blue/white with the Yellow Fumitory being a welcome exception. They originate in the Northern Hemisphere primarily from China but are also found in America and the mountains of N.Africa. The nondescript Corydalis ophiocarpa is a good example of growing from seed not being quite what you hoped for! A point of interest Pere David who was a catholic missionary to China was a keen botanist and zoologist, although he collected the corydalis pictured above he also discovered Pere David’s deer. The deer became extinct in China where it had once been plentiful but is now being restored in significant numbers from the herd at Woburn.

Crocosmia

Formerly known as montbretia, Crocosmia should have been included in an earlier post as they are grown from bulb-like corms. Native to South Africa, so best grown in a sheltered spot in a severe climate. The original orange garden plant (Montbretia) was a hybrid (Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora) but there is now a huge range of vibrant colours available through intensive plant breeding. Easy to grow they will thrive in most soil types other than anything too wet. A little shade may help the flowers to last longer.

Six on Saturday 16/8/2025

The weather is holding steady, temperatures as high as 30°C, although 20-25°C is more the norm. The few showers we have experienced have barely dampened the ground. Typically for this time of the year colour is sparse, so the lilies are welcome. Although they do not hold their blooms well in the heat. One thing I have noticed is the lack of butterflies. We were inundated with them earlier, particularly with the Peacocks. Although the eupatorium, now Eutrochium purpureum, is in flower, a tremendous bee and butterfly magnate, there are hardly any to be seen. This is the exact opposite of what happened last year so I am putting it down to the warm spring. For anyone who is interested I have taken the liberty to include a few links to some of my previous posts devoted to lilies that I have grown, with many more pictures.

The ever popular Lilium ‘Stargazer’. This is one of the first lilies that I ever grew and remains a favourite even now. I took this picture a couple of days ago but it is already looking worse for ware in the heat. Another Oriental, Lilium ‘Hachi’, which I featured a couple of weeks ago, is very similar with its upturned blooms but the flowers are notably much larger than those of ‘Stargazer’. Here is a link to Lilies Part 1 – Updated for more lily pictures.

I have shown Anemanthele lessoniana, pheasant tail grass, before but is now at its best. The leaves are taking on some red splashes which are complemented by the airy inflorescences floating in the breeze. I’ll be quoting poetry next!

I have never grown Lilium ‘Red Flash’ before and I am rather enamoured with the strong colour. Unfortunately the bottom bloom is past its best. For even more pictures of lilies that I have grown Lilies Part2 -Updated

A good old standby for late summer/autumn colour Rudbekia fulgida ‘Goldsturm’. I don’t think you can beat these simple “cone-flowers” to add a splash of colour, at this time of the year. I did have some echinaceas but they have decided not to come out to play this year. The splash of blue in the lower right-hand corner is Geranium ‘Johnson’s Blue’ which, in my small garden, is becoming far too invasive. I intend to remove it altogether shortly. Even though I reduced it by half last winter. It is taking up far too much space for one plant, and I have plenty of stuff stuck in pots which can take its place.

Another strongly scented Oriental. Lilium ‘Casa Blanca’ is another old favourite of mine. I have to admit that I had forgotten it was there until I checked the label before it came into bloom. It is a true pure white and all the better for it. I am in a bit of a quandary at the moment. I have no room to plant the lilies out, so do I keep the pots overwinter and chance that they will come good again next year, which they should do. Or do I buy in some more to guarantee a good show next year. I will probably do both! Here is some more about lilies including Cardiocrinum giganteum. Lilies Part 3-Updated

I bought this hydrangea from Thompson and Morgan at least eight years ago when they were selling it as Hydrangea ‘Incrediball’. I think it is now better known as, and is certainly synonymous with, Hydrangea arborescens ‘Strong Annabelle’. My plant is still in a container, and although the blooms aren’t the size that they should be, it still puts on a fairly good display every year. I intended to cut it back hard last winter but forgot. I need to remedy that this year, and put it on a high potash diet to see if I can improve it. Re-potting would be ideal but it is in a very large container so I will continue to nurture it where it is for as long as I can.

This meme is hosted by Jim Stevens who is to be found with all the details and links to plenty of other blogs to enjoy at Garden Ruminations.

Hardy Perennials (Part 1) – Updated

When I first started this blog, having removed any that had gone before, it was mainly as a brain exercise, plus, not a little, nostalgia. I came across the Six on Saturday meme run by Jim Stephens at Garden Ruminations and, through that, organically increased my presence on the web. This has prompted me to re-publish some of my old material some of which is updated. These posts are purely about the plants that I have grown and photographed, mainly in my previous garden, unless otherwise stated.

Whether it be in the herbaceous border or more natural settings such as the woodland garden or informal rockery, hardy perennials are the backbone of the majority of gardens. They provide colour from early spring through to late autumn, and even into winter when the dead stems can add form and colour. Unless you intend to grow from seed find a good independent nurserymen. Although a dying breed, they are the people who have a passion for plants and are usually all too willing to give advice gained from their experience. Garden centres are another option but they tend to be impersonal and usually quite a bit more expensive. Online buying can be a bit of a lottery, pay attention to the pot size so you know what to expect. I actually planted out my new front garden with plugs bought online and had a good display the following year. It is important to remember that the above applies to the “standard” range of hardy perennials, when it comes to something more out of the ordinary specialist nurseries are the best option.

My preferred method is growing from seed, although I normally use society seed because I know it’s fresh, for the less invested gardener it is better to use one of the smaller seedsmen such as Plant World Seeds. The method I have always followed with hardy plants is to sow under cold glass, or in my case a poly-tunnel, usually in February to allow the seeds to germinate as they would do naturally. It would be just as good to sow outside except you haven’t the same control. Sowing from seed works well with anything which comes true from seed but in the case of most cultivars (hybrids) you need to buy in plugs or plants, many of which have been raised by micropropagation.

Achillea

From a traditional border plant achilleas (Yarrows) have been developed into a must have plant for the gardener. As with several genera, it has been recognised by the industry as a very desirable plant. Many cultivars, in a wide range of colours, have been produced. It will grow in most soils, is hardy, and attracts insects to its flat flower heads. I can say from experience that it is not fond of damp and shade, preferring an open sunny aspect, and is often used in prairie planting. Fashionable.

Aconitum

Monkshood or wolfsbane is an easy hardy herbaceous perennial of medium height with delphinium-like flowers that prefers a rich moist soil to do well. Personally I think it does best in dappled shade rather than full sun. Easily propagated from seed. It is highly toxic to everything other than birds.

Actaea

Two totally different plants, Actaea rubra the red baneberry is an American native found in open woodland and therefore thrives in damp shady conditions. It actually forms rhizomes so should really have been included in an earlier post. The berries are toxic.

Actaea simplex (Atropurpurea Group) is an Asiatic baneberry which prefers moist soil and shade, although I have found it to be quite adaptable, thriving for me in an herbaceous border. The dark feathery leaves make a perfect foil for the delicate white scented flower spikes which insects find attractive. Also known as Cimicifuga simplex.

Agastache

Known as the anise hyssop or giant hyssop, agastaches make a nice plant for a sunny spot. Aniseed scented leaves, and with flowers that attract insects, it is a useful addition to any garden. Generally grown from seed, sometimes as a annual as it will flower in its first year, it will not thrive in a wet soil. Some of the woodier species are not entirely frost hardy.

Althaea

Althea officinalis or the Marsh Mallow Herb is a vigorous herbaceous perennial, which, to be honest, I tend to think of as more of a shrub. Definitely one for a sunny spot it does well in almost any soil, and at one time was very popular but, doesn’t seem to be so much now. The plant has been used in herbal medicine for years, and has several remedial properties attributed to it.

Androsace

Alpines were really my first love, and I built a rock garden and peat bed in the garden of my first house. I was lucky enough to have a small specialist nursery nearby, who bought in from another specialist on a regular basis. This gave me an ever-changing supply of plants on my doorstep. The androsace genus is a member of the primula family and contains almost as many species. They are mainly high alpines originating in the Himalayas. The majority form small cushions studded with disproportionately large flowers, which make stunning specimens for the alpine house and tufa wall. They are not easy to grow but the end result is a reward in itself. I grew a couple of the ‘easy’ species but unfortunately when I was growing alpines it never crossed my mind to take pictures, I really wish I had now. The plant pictured above, who’s name is bigger than it is, was grown from seed and managed a solitary flower in its second year.

Anemone

Anemones, commonly known as wind flowers, are related to the buttercup. The genus contains something like 120 species some of which are fibrous rooted, others grow from rhizomes or tubers. They are found almost worldwide and range in habitat from mountain scree to woodland. Because of their diverse habitats their cultivation varies equally. It ranges from the alpine house bench to the positively invasive such as Anemone tomentosa. For further information go to my earlier post.

Anemonella

This beautiful plant is a cultivar of the single species in the genus Anemonella. A native of North America, where it found in woodland, and is known as the rue-anemone. This tuberous-rooted beauty would usually obtained from a specialist nursery but the specie plant can be grown from seed. Best grown in moist soil in dappled shade as you would expect from a plant found in woodland.

Anemonopsis

This beautiful Japanese plant requires a moist lime-free soil in light shade to thrive. Best propagated from fresh seed. Obtainable from specialist nurseries and society seed lists.

Angelica

Wide spread in Northern Europe, particularly Scandinavia, angelica has tall hollow fluted stems and large flat flower-heads reminiscent of cow parsley. Its edible stems and roots have many culinary uses (candied angelica), flavouring spirits and more. Easy to grow, it is a biennial and sets copious amounts of seed. It self seeds everywhere, which can produce some interesting results. The self-seeded plant above has the dark foliage and the lesser stature of Angelic ‘Ebony’ but has crossed with the specie plant and has contrasting white flowers rather than the dusky pink of ‘Ebony’. It makes a good ‘spot plant’ in the border because of its height.

Aquilegia

A traditional cottage garden plant having some 60-70 species occurring in diverse habitats in the Northern Hemisphere. The traditional easy to grow garden varieties known as Columbine or Granny’s Bonnets maintain the spurred flower shape but vary greatly in colour and height. Most aquilegias seen in gardens today are the result of much interbreeding and self-seeding through generations. The earliest introduction of a strain that I remember were the McKana Hybrids which are still available today. I later saw the introduction of such as the Songbird Series of F1 Hybrids which although smaller in stature carry large flowers. They grow best in a damp gritty loam although it isn’t uncommon for them to seed into seemingly inhospitable spots but still live happily. There are a number of species from the mountains which need to be grown in the rockery or alpine house. One species illustrated above worthy of special mention is Aquilegia fragrans, not only does it make a superb specimen but, as its name suggests, is scented.

Astilbe (Spirea)

Ideal plants for a damp spot, astilbes, or as they are sometimes known, spireas, are another plant that seems to have been around in gardens forever. Once established they are easy to divide and share. The common name spirea is confusing because Spiraea is a genus of small shrubs. Astilbes come in all sorts of colours and heights and there are many named varieties. Basically they are a good solid garden plant.

Astrantia

Astrantias are another border stalwart, many varieties have been introduced in a variety of purple and pink shades developed from the specie plant. Astrantia major ‘Claret’ is the deepest red I know. They prefer a medium loam and do not tolerate wet soils readily

Six on Saturday 02/8/2025

The weather has been very unsettled but rainfall has been sparse. Daytime temperatures remain at 17-20°C. Yet again the worst of the weather has bypassed us in High Peak. I think the valley I live in has its own macroclimate. It can be very annoying to keep getting messages on my phone informing me rain is expected to stop whilst the garden remains bone dry. This Saturday, unusually, there are some pictures of my back garden, warts and all. The garden is very small, the wall you can see is the gable end of the bungalow to the rear of me. This was an old railway yard and considering the initial planting was done with a pick and trenching tool it isn’t turning out too badly. My previous garden was large so this one has proved to be quite a challenge. I did however, have a vision of what I wanted, which was basically cram it full of plants. I am slowly getting there. Currently there is hardly room to move!

The plants in the foreground, other than the buddleia, are in containers sitting on a six foot wide flagged patio which drops down a couple of feet to the garden below. The oriental lilies are starting to make their display now that the hardy geraniums are mostly leaf. Geranium x oxonianum ‘Wargrave Pink’ is still flowering in the “garden” area along with a few yellow verbascums and some Begonia Illumination Apricot Shades in a basket, hanging under the foliage of Rosa ‘Rambling Rector‘, a rampant honeysuckle, and a purple clematis. The Joe Pye Weed, which I think is now Eutrochium purpureum, is just coming into flower at the top of the picture. This will then become the main attraction for the bees and butterflies as the buddleias finish.

Oriental lily ‘Curly Sue’ is just outside my back door. The scent on a warm day is quite something. I am unhappy to report that I have found my first beetle today!

This is the patio area, I use the term loosely! The sage in the foreground is growing from between the flags which along with the self-seeded plants of Geranium pyrenaicum make every trip an adventure. The staging to the right is a new acquisition, purely to increase the space that I have to grow plants, and has proved a nightmare to keep watered. The older staging is where I initially raised all my plants, but it is now so shaded, that only the top tier is of use. There are even a couple of tomato plants in there somewhere which were foisted on me. If I get one tomato off these it will be a miracle. Phyllostachys nigra is poking its head in top left.

This picture gives a better idea of just how tight room is. The Phyllostachys aureas help to break up the wall behind them, and there is a Viburnum making its way up there in the middle. The Joe Pye weed also makes an efficient screen for the summer, as well as attracting plenty of butterflies and bees. There is a Fatsia japonica in there somewhere also. I think I am going to have a problem keeping the acer in check in the future as it is now beginning to put on quite a bit of growth.

Another Oriental, Lilium ‘Hachi’.

At the other end of the “patio” we have Control Central for the garden, the potting bench! Almost everything is done here. I no longer have the luxury of a covered area, although I have done some potting up on the kitchen draining board. Incidentally, I have to thread my way onto the chair. There are meconopsis plants on the floor on one side and a campanula growing out of the flags on the other!

Reading this post I’m sure that you have surmised that I very much miss my old garden. Unfortunately it was unavoidable that I downsized. At the end of the day, I am lucky not to be fussy about garden design and I am only interested in the plants. I initially filled the space with plants that I knew would survive the far from good conditions. As the ground is improved, I am beginning to replace them with plants I really like to grow such as my meconopsis. I do seem however, to have become keen on hardy geraniums on the way. I might manage a post for the front garden soon, although it’s past its best. It is even smaller!

This meme is hosted by Jim Stevens who is to be found with all the details and links to plenty of other blogs to enjoy at Garden Ruminations.