Perennials

Native to Europe and western Asia this species has a number of forms that are very useful in a mixed planting. They grow best in enriched soil in a sunny aspect and are frost tolerant. Plants need to be keep moist during establishment but are then quite drought tolerant. The cultivar 'Susannah Mitchell' is distinguied by pale butter yellow flowers which compliment many landscapes, even if yellow is not normally a color of chioce.With finely divided grey-green leaves and ascending stems to 30cm bearing cream daisy flowers 3cms across, a beautiful choice for the front of the border.

Artemisia is a large genus of perennials and shrubs from temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. Many are from arid conditions making them most suitable for the waterwise garden. they are grown primarily for their interesting and frequently scented foliage. A native of western North America and Mexico, Artemisia 'Valerie Finnis' produces new growth in spring from rhizomatous underground stems. it is an ideal addition to the tough country (or city) garden, and its sprawling stems of silver leaves will enhance any mixed planting. It is fully frost hardy.

A genus of annuals and perennials fron the Mediterranean region and western Asia, they grow in a range of soil types including alkaline ones, and in full sun to lightly shaded positions. Flowers are produced from spring until autumn and are excellent butterfly attractants. Centanthus ruber is a great addition to the less formal garden, and to dry rockeries and gravel gardens. Although it can self seed freely, any unwanted plants are easily removed. Particularly beautiful in plantings with larger rose varieties.

A genus of annuals and perennials fron the Mediterranean region and western Asia, they grow in a range of soil types including alkaline ones, and in full sun to lightly shaded positions. Flowers are produced from spring until autumn and are excellent butterfly attractants. Centanthus ruber alba is a great addition to the less formal garden, and to dry rockeries and gravel gardens. Although it can self seed freely, any unwanted plants are easily removed. Particularly beautiful in plantings with larger rose varieties.

There are 60 or so species of Cerastium in temperate parts of the world, and a number of the perennial varieties are now widely used as ground covers or rockery plants. All are frost tolerant and do best in an airy position in full sun. Like most low silver leafed plants it is best to avoid overhead watering as the foliage may become mildewed. Cerastium tomentosum is a particularly useful perennial for well drained banks or rockeries, growing to about 12 cm in height it will spread indefinitely.

Cytanthus or Fire Lilies are represented by about 50 species from Africa, with most of the cultivated species coming from Southern Africa. They can be easily established in the garden and will rapidly multiply up into a dense clump; they can also be grown in a pot. Formerly classified as Vallotta, the Scarborough Lily is from the western Cape Province, and differs from the other Cyrtanthus species in having rather broad leaves and large bright scarlet flowers that are held in an upright position. It is best grown in a sunny part of the garden in enriched, moist, free draining soil. Plants will tolerate only light frosts, but considerable dryness once established. Plant the bulbs with their neck at ground level, and leave undisturbed for a number of years, dividing only when the clump becomes over-crowded.

Often referred to as Ligularia, this evergreen species and its relatives are native to temperate Asia. Ideal for moist shady spots with free draining soil it is fully frost hardy. The creamy leaf variegations add welcome highlights to shaded areas. In late summer and autumn clusters of yellow daisy flowers are produced on stems up to 1 m tall

Often referred to as Ligularia, this evergreen species and its relatives are native to temperate Asia. Ideal for moist shady spots with free draining soil, it is fully frost hardy. The golden yellow leaf spots add welcome highlights to shaded areas. If exposed to strong direct sun light the spots will discolor. In late summer and autumn clusters of yellow daisy flowers are produced on stems up to 1 m tall

The name Geranium is frequently misapplied to members of the genus Pelargonium. True geraniums are distinguished by their symmetrical flowers, simple seeds lacking awns or plumes and their often mounding growth habit. Pelargoniums on the other hand have flowers with two petals pointing up and three pointing downwards, are more often shrubby and have plumed seeds. True geraniums are a collector's delight and fit well into less structured gardens. Greanium traversii comes from coastal cliffs of the Chatham islands off the southern coast of New Zealand. The cultivar Seaspray has 15 mm pink flowers held above the silvery grey-green foliage, and is an easy to grow variety suited to hanging baskets, rockeries or under planting shrubs such as roses. It is best grown in moist improved soil in a shelters sunny position or in dappled light in hotter areas, and is tolerant of frosts.

Oatgrasses are a group of tussocky plants from temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. All require well drained sandy or gravelly soil in a full sun position. They should be cut to teh ground in late autumn to make room for new growth. Blue Oat Grass is from central Europe and is fully frost hardy. It makes an excellent garden feature as well as providing good foliage contrast. it is particularly beautiful when contrasted with purple and pink low growing plants

There is only one species in this genus from eastern Asia. It is a creeping perennial dying back in winter and re-shooting in spring. Best grown in a sheltered sunny spot or in light shade in hotter areas, it prefers a moist somewhat boggy area and can even be grown in shallow water.Tthe leaf colours are best seen in sunny areas. Houttuynia produces flowers with four petals in summer. Can be invasive in very moist areas.

Selected by George Russell and released around 1937 these hybrids form a strong clump to about 1 m tall. Best grown in climates with cool wet winters and dry summers, and in full sun in well drained moderately fertile slightly acidic soil. Lupins will not tolerate limey conditions

Montanoa is a genus of about 25 species of large evergreen daisies from tropical America. They are best grown in enriched soil in a sunny position, protected from strong wind as their cane-like growth can be brittle. They will not tolerate frost. Montanoa grandiflora is from Central America and can reach a height of 4 meters. It's leaves are deeply indented, making it a striking addition to a mixed planting. In winter it produces open clusters up to 60 cm across of white daisy heads each about 6 cm across. Stunning when in full flower. Quite drought tolerant in my garden.

Not a bamboo of course, but a multi-stemmed woody-based perennial from China and Japan. The clumps of thsi dwarf variety eventually may reach 50cm and have divided leaves in shades of deep green, bronze and red. White flowers occur in summer followed by red berries. Sun or light to quite heavy shade, tolerate light frosts. Best grown in fertile soil, it can be used as a feture in mixed plantings or as a low hedge.

Pogonantherum comes from the rain forests of south east Asia, but requires only moderate amounts of water once established. it has graceful, arching much-branched stems bearing soft lime green leaves. it can be grown in a pot indoors in a well lit area, or in the garden where it is particularly suitable around pondscapes or in Japanese style gardens. A non-invasive species which forms a tight clump. ut back hard in early spring to promote fresh growth.

From a group of some 25 species from cooler parts of the northern hemisphere, P caeruleum is the most widely cultivated. The new spring foliage is very eye-catching and is followed by dense clusters of lavender blue saucer shaped flowers each, about 2 cm across. It is best grown in moist fertile well draining soil in a sunny or lightly shaded position. It requires summer moisture, and is frost tolerant. It is not recommended for very hot conditions unless treated as an annual

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Salvia azurea grandifolora a beautiful variety to either mix with shrubs such as roses, where the stems will fall into the rose bushes as the salvia flowers emerge, or as a feature plant in the garden. Best in fertile well drained soil in a sunny position, it is tolerant of dry periods and is also frost tolerant. Cut to the ground after flowering.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Thought to be of Mexican origin, Salvia buchananii requires protection from hot sun and is best grown in a sheltered sunny spot or in light shade. It will sucker non-incisively to produce a patch up to 50 cm across, and requires moist conditions in summer and free draining soil. It is not frost tolerant but will survive some dryness once established.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Another species from Mexico, the glossy leaves of Salvia chiapensis highlight the bright pink flowers which occur in dense whorls along the long flower spikes. Best planted in fertile free draining soil in a moist sunny position, or light shade in very hot areas. Trim back by a third after flowering. This species will tolerate light frosts and some dryness once established.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Iced Lemon is one of the many S. greggii hybrid forms. It is best grown in a sunny spot in fertile free draining soil. Although it will tolerate light frosts, pruning should be done after the danger of frosts has passed, and then cutting back plants by two thirds will encourage bushiness.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Omaha Gold shows its leaf variegation's best on new growth, the leaves aging to a more uniform green. it is best grown in moist free-draining soil in a lightly shaded position, and mulched to avoid dryness in summer. It will sucker in very rich garden conditions, and should then be contained in a restricted bed. Cut down to the ground after flowering.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Indigo spires is a fast growing hybrid variety that mixes well with informal plantings, and particularly with roses. The dark soft green leaves may wilt on hot days if the plant is not protected from strong winds. Best positioned in a sheltered sunny spot in fertile well drained soil, and with mulch applied in summer. Indigo Spires may be cut back hard after flowering to promote new growth. New growth may be affected by frost but the plant is frost tolerant.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. A form of S. involucrata from the highlands of central Mexico, S 'Bethellii' can reach 1.5 m in height and width, and is an excellent filler behind other shrubs. It can be grown either in full sun or light shade in moist well drained soil, and is dry-tolerant and frost tolerant once established.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Similar to S. involucrata Bethellii but smaller growing, both the foliage and flower color of Joan works well in a mixed planting. Best in fertile free draining soil in a sunny position, Joan will tolerate some dryness and light frosts once established. Prune back by a third to keep bushy, or to the ground to promote new growth after flowering.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Mulberry jam is a cultivar of S. involucrata. It can be rather brittle if grown in isolation, and for this reason is excellent for interplanting among other shubs. such as roses, as it does not overwhelm them. Prune back almost to the ground when flowering finishes

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Pink Icicles is an excellent plant for winter flower color, the light pink clusters contrasting against the rich dark foliage. It is best grown in free draining moist soil either in a sunny position or in light shade. it will tolerate some dryness when established and is frost tolerant. Prune back hard after flowering to encourage fresh new growth.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Salvia Cyclamen grows as a multi-stemmed shrub-like perennial, and can be cut to the ground to promote new growth and more flowers. The brilliant pink flowers are a good foil for the darker colored foliage of Burgundy Pennisetum or Tradescantia pallida purpurea. It is dry tolerant and frost tolerant once established.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Salvia nemorosa occurs in central Europe and western Asia, and there are many forms of it in cultivation. Caradonna is a particularly fine deep blue cultivar. It is best grown in a sunny position in free draining, moist soil and is frrost tolerant. The flowering stems should be cut to the ground when finished to encourage another flush of flowers. The plants are dormant in winter.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Silke's Dream is very useful variety either in mixed plantings or when used to soften the edge of retaining walls. It is best grown in a sunny position in fertile free draining soil, and is dry tolerant and frost tolerant once established. It can be cut back hard after flowering to promote new growth and more flowers.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Timboon is thought to be a cross between S. involucrata and S karwinski. It is best grown in either a sunny or a lightly shaded position in fertile free draining soil. It will tolerate moderate frosts and periods of dryness once established. Prune back hard after flowering.

There are about 900 salvias distributed through most part of the world, making it the largest genus in the mint family. Hundreds of varieties are also now in cultivation as ornamental, culinary herbs, or as both (the name salvia derives from the Latin salve meaning to heal, as the aromatic leaves of many species have long been used for medicinal purposes). Salvia flowers are two-lipped and have among their representatives some of the best blues, purples and most intense reds to be found among garden plants. They are also generally hardy and free flowering, and attract either bees or birds to the garden. A truly versatile group. Most are best grown in a sunny position in free draining soil with moderate soil moisture. The shrubby species generally tolerate only light frosts while perennial species are often more frost hardy. Wendy's wish is a chance hybrid discovered in Victoria and now protected by Plant Breeder Rights (thus the higher unit price). It flowers throughout the warmer months, the colourful calyx adding to teh display. Cut back by one third in spring and apply a slow release fertilizer at the same time. It is best grown in full sun to light shade in moist free draining soils, but dry-tolerant once established. It tolerates only light frosts.

Stachys is a genus in the mint family with about 300 species mainly found in the northern hemisphere. Many have long been used in the herb garden and most are very attractive to bees. Best known to gardeners is the silver-grey woolly Stachys byzantina, or Lamb's Ears. Stachys macrantha has basal leaves that are a mid green and only slightly hairy, Flowering stems are up to 60 cm tall and bear dense spikes of hooded purple-pink flowers which open over a long period of time. Sunny spot in well drained soil. Best grown in moist free-draining soil in a sunny position, plants will withstand some dryness once established and are frost tolerant.

Native to the southeastern states of the USA Stokesia is a genus of only one species. The evergreen rosettes of leaves reach about 30 cm in height while the stems of either blue or white flowers can reach 50 cm. Individual flower heads may be up to 8 cm across. Stokesia is best grown in full sun in fertile soil, and should mulched well in summer to retain moisture. It is fully frost hardy.

Tagetes is a small group from Arizona and Mexico best known for its colorful annual members now developed into numerous color forms and widely used as bedding plants and as companion plants to deter soil-borne pests in the garden. T. lemmonii is less well known. It is the only shrubby perennial member of the group and can reach 1.2 x 1.2 m in size. A stunning addition to any garden, it has feathery divided leaves which smell of ripe passion fruit when brushed even lightly, and a profusion of rich golden yellow daisy flowers in the colder months when not a lot is flowering. Best grown in full sun in free draining soil, plants will survive wiht very little additional water once established, and they are frost tolerant. Cut back as hard as you like after flowering.

There are some 50 Tradescantia species native to North and South America. Some of the trailing species are know to be rather weedy but T pallida purpurea is definitely not. It forms a sprawling patch of deep purple foliage up to 1 m across, and the color adds a great new dimension to many types of landscapes. It is particularly striking when combined with lime green or silver and blue foliage. Best grown in moist, free draining soil in full sun or light shade, it will tolerate some dryness and frosts once established (frost will burn the upper leaves but not the deepest shoots). Cut back ruthlessly when plants become straggly.

A genus of some 250 species from Europe and America, Verbena is represented by many varieties in cultivation. They are generally marginally frost hardy and do best in well drained soil in full sun. Verbena bonariensis is a great addition to any mixed planting where its slender stems add height without bulk, so that the flowers seem to float above the garden. It self-seeds readily and survives with minimal water even in dry areas.

The genus Viola contains some 500 species of annual biennial and perennial species. It includes the garden pansy as well as a range of interesting and very different species. Most will tolerate light frosts, and prefer a fertile well drained soil with some protection from the sun in warmer areas. Viola labradorica is native to North America and in ideal conditions will spread indefinitely in a woodland garden. a charming ground cover with masses of flowers in spring, but regrettably it is not scented