Shrubs and Trees

A genus of mostly evergreen species from warmer countries, particularly South America. Best known for the varieties with pendulous lantern-like flowers normally pollinated by hummingbirds, and much loved by honey eaters in my own garden. Abutilons flower profusely from late winter through until autumn, prefering enriched soil and a warm aspect in full sun or part shade. Once established they will tolerate light frosts and require only moderat water if also kept mulched, Cut back or tip prune in late winter to promote bushiness.

A genus of mostly evergreen species from warmer countries, particularly South America. Best known for the varieties with pendulous lantern-like flowers normally pollinated by hummingbirds, and much loved by honey eaters in my own garden. Abutilons flower profusely from late winter through until autumn, prefering enriched soil and a warm aspect in full sun or part shade. Once established they will tolerate light frosts and require only moderat water if also kept mulched, Cut back or tip prune in late winter to promote bushiness.

Bocconia is a genus of about 10 species in the poppy family. B. arborea is from South America and Mexico where it grows on quite exposed hill slopes. In my garden it is very hardy requiring minimal water or attention, and it provides a fantastic structural backdrop for other planting. It can be grown in full sun or light shade, and is probably not frost tolerant.

A variable genus from both tropical and temperate regions, the species are particularly valued for their very attractive fruit. Their growth is cane-like with arching stems. In the deciduous varieties tiny flowers are followed by dense clusters of fruit which may persist on the bare branches and then make excellent indoor decorations. Callicarpa bodinieri var. giraldii is an arching shrub from central China with light green downy leaves. In my garden the beautiful berries are often consumed by birds before I can cut some branches ot enjoy them inside. Best grown in moist enriched soil in morning sun or light shade. It is very frost hardy.

A genus of many-stemmed highly ornamental deciduous shrubs from China and Japan they are very frost hardy and tolerate a wide range of soils. They can be grown in full sun or light shade, and benefit from the occasional removal of some of the older stems. The stems of these shrubs are also somewhat thorny making them good barrier hedges. Falconnet Charlet is a colorful and particularly beautiful addition to the late winter garden,

A genus of many-stemmed highly ornamental deciduous shrubs from China and Japan they are very frost hardy and tolerate a wide range of soils. They can be grown in full sun or light shade, and benefit from the occasional removal of some of the older stems. The stems of these shrubs are also somewhat thorny making them good barrier hedges. Winter Cheer is a colorful and cheerful addition to the late winter garden,

A genus of many-stemmed highly ornamental deciduous shrubs from China and Japan they are very frost hardy and tolerate a wide range of soils. They can be grown in full sun or light shade, and benefit from the occasional removal of some of the older stems. The stems of these shrubs are also somewhat thorny making them good barrier hedges. The white-flowering nivalis is a very free flowering and beautiful addition to the late winter garden.

Cistus are drought tolerant evergreen shrubs from the Mediterranean region. They have saucer-shaped flowers which can resembling single roses. Best grown in full sun in free draining relatively dry soil, and tolerant of all but the heaviest frosts. They are excellent low maintenace shrubs for a mixed plantin and can be lightly pruned to shape if desired. Cistus Silver Pink is one of the smaller growing varieties, and is an excellent choice for the front ot a shrub border or as a feature in a gravel garden.

There are about 100 fuchsia species and thousands of hybrids and cultivars grown for their beautiful flowers. Nearly all of the species are from South and Central America in areas of high rainfall. Those in cultivation commonly require a moist well drained soil in light shade or a sheltered sunny spot, and can be kept bushy by pinching out the tips. They are generally frost tender. Fuchsia arborescens is a handsome shrub for a sheltered sunny part of the garden where the soil is moist and there is a degree of humidity. In my Perth garden the shrubs are semi deciduous in winter.

There are about 100 fuchsia species and thousands of hybrids and cultivars grown for their beautiful pendulous flowers. Nearly all of the species are from South and Central America in areas of high rainfall. Those in cultivation commonly require a moist well drained soil in light shade or a sheltered sunny spot, and can be kept bushy by pinching out the tips. They are generally frost tender. Thalia is a vigorous upright shrub which may be grown in a lightly shaded part of the garden.

Hibiscus is a genus of more than 200 species of deciduous and evergreen shrubs, trees, annuals and perennials widely distributed in the warmer climates of the world. Best grown in moderately fertile soil with two deep waterings a week in summer, hibiscus need long hot summers to flower best. From tropical Africa, H. schizopetalus has unusual and extraordinarily beautiful flowers. Although they appear delicate, the shrub is none the less extremely hardy and well suited to gardens in warmer parts of WA. Unfortunately it will be difficult yo grow in frost-prone areas. It requires no pruning and in my garden has been pest free.

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.

From a group of some 350 species of perennials and shrubs from Africa, Asia and Australia. They generally have rather succulent stems and most are frost tender. Plectranthus contains some of the most useful plants for relatively dry shade under the existing canopies of trees, where their best feature may then be their foliage colour, their flowers, or in some cases both. Plectranthus barbatus is a great foliage shrub for use either in sunny or shaded positions where its thick light green furry leaves provide good contrast. The very long flower spikes are perhaps the strongest blue in this genus. Cut back the branches from time to time to keep compact.

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. African Sky is a New Zealand hybrid with parents thought to be S. scabra and S, chamelaeagnea. It is smaller than the latter parent, only reaching a meter in flower in my garden so far, but it seems to be just as tough, Best in either a sunny or partly shaded position in well drained soil. It is tolerates periods of dryness as well as frost and coastal conditions. Prune back by two thirds after flowering to encourage 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. The Mexican species, Salvia chamaedryoides, has several forms, all of which are very drought tolerant once established. Indigo Blue is the most upright and is particularly useful in landscapes requiring grey-green foliage. Best grown in a sunny spot in fertile, free draining soil. Trim back plants by one third 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. A South African species, S. chamelaeagnea is a survivor for those very harsh garden conditions. It even has potential as an informal hedge, but not in fertile moist gardens as it will sucker badly. Best in a sunny position in relatively poor soil, and with little water once established. It will tolerate both frosts and coastal conditions

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. Originally from high elevations in South America, S. corrugata will grow quite happily in a sunny position in relatively dry conditions and in free draining soil. It will tolerate light frosts, but should not be pruned back until the danger of frosts has passed

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. An excellent shrub for use in lightly shaded places where the lime green leaves are a good contrast for darker foliage. Salvia dorisiana is best grown in moist free-draining soil. It will not tolerate dry periods or frost. Prune lightly in late spring to keep the growth ompact.

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. Crimson and Black is an eay to grow shrub performing best in free draining moist soil, and tolerating some dryness an moderate frosts when mature. It should be pruned back by half in late spring to encourage compact and bushy 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. 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. A South African species, S. chamelaeagnea is a survivor for those very harsh garden conditions. It even has potential as an informal hedge, but not in fertile moist gardens as it will sucker badly. Best in a sunny position in relatively poor soil, and with little water once established. It will tolerate both frosts and coastal conditions

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. Lara is a form of Salvia greggii selected by collector sue Templeton, and named after her grand daughter. it is quite irresistible when in flower, and suits mixed plantings, particularly when placed near dark foliage. Best grown in free draining soil in a sunny position it s tolerant of light frosts and some dryness. trim back by one third in late spring to encourage fresh 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. Huntington's Red is best planted in a sunny spot and trimmed back by a third after flowering to maintain bushiness. 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. 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. A form of S. mexicana (predictably from Mexico), S. 'Limelight' can reach 1.5 x 1.5 m and should be lightly trimmed after flowering ot keep it bushy. It is dry-tolerant once established, but not frost tolerant. It is best grown in a sunny spot in free draining moist soil.

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. Coral Baby is the smallest and most compact of the many forms of this S. micrphylla. It would appear that Coral Baby has potential as a small informal hedge. It certainly deserves a place towards the front of a mixed planting. Probably frost sensitive.

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 'Hot Lips' is a reliable and hardy shrub to 1 x 1 m. The lower lip of the flower is white with a prominent red lip, and flowers occur continuously through the warmer months (note, the first flowers in spring are often pure red}. Hot Lips can be cut back hard at virtually any time to encourage 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. 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. Salvia 'Violet Eyes' is a chance hybrid of S. guaranitica that was found in Victoria. A beautiful shrub, it prefers protection from hot winds and is best grown in light shade in very hot area. Prune only when growing strongly to avoid losing the plant. It will not tolerate frosts.

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.

Spiraea contains some 80 species of deciduous and semi-evergreen shrubs grown primarily for their spring or summer floral display. They form clumps of wiry arching stems clothed in narrow toothed leaves. They are hardy and versatile, but do best in fertile, well drained soil, and in hotter climates, in a position out of the full afternoon sun. They are both frost and drought tolerant once established. Single Flowering May is a must-have for the spring garden. It's flowers smother the branches and last for many weeks. It is a good choice for an informal hedge in a country-style garden. After several years, it can be pruned to the ground to refresh the plant.

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.

Weigelas are spreading shrubs found in woodland margins in eastern Asia. They are cultivated for their showy tubular flowers borne in spring on short laterals on the previous year's growth. They are best cultivated in fertile well drained soil in a sunny spot protected from drying winds or in light shade in hotter areas. They are fully frost hardy. Weigela florida looymansii aurea is a particularly beautiful shrub with the new leaves being an almost luminous golden yellow, a perfect foil for the clusters of pink and ruby shaded flowers. The leaves age to a deeper green during summer.