Acer palmatum – Japanese Maple

Acer palmatum or Japanese Maple provide excellent colour and structure to the garden. Green, yellow, orange to dark red, they help to break up a sea of greenery. Colours changing through the season and bare skeletons in the late autumn and winter months.

Here in our focus image, we have two similar but distinct varieties. The name palmatum comes from the similarity to the human hand or palm with leaves spread out like fingers. These fingers can be dissected as in the far Acer or doubly dissected as in the near Acer. The double dissection making the leaves like feathers.

There are also two basic structures here. The far Japanese Maple is an upright Acer, whilst the near is more of a weeping Acer. The weeping structure provides a pleasing dome shape to the plant.

Acer palmatum - Japanese Maple - two varieties

Rank

Species

Names

Scientific name:

Acer palmatum

Common Names:

Japanese Maple

Genus:

Acer

Family:

Sapindaceae

Related Plants:

Acer, Maple, Sycamore

Growing Conditions

Position:

partial shade

Soil Type:

sandy, loamy, chalky, peaty

Soil pH:

weak-acid, neutral

Moisture:

damp, well drained

Similar Posts

  • Saxifraga cotyledon

    Saxifraga cotyledon is a beautiful arctic-alpine flowering plant that grows in Iceland, Scandinavia the Alps and Pyrenees. The flowering stem comes from a rosette of furry succulent leaves in May or June, whilst other side rosettes await their turn. The red accented, white petals give a striking display in a sunny, well drained rocky environment.

    Saxifraga cotyledon Southside Seedling

    Rank

    Species

    Names

    Scientific name:

    Saxifraga cotyledon

    Common Names:

    Saxifraga ‘Southside Seedling’

    Genus:

    Saxifraga

    Family:

    Saxifragaceae

    Related Plants:

    Astilbe

    Growing Conditions

    Position:

    full sun, partial shade

    Soil Type:

    sandy, loamy, chalky

    Soil pH:

    neutral, alkaline

    Moisture:

    well drained

  • Agapanthus – African Lily – Tall Globe Shaped Flower Heads to Lift a Summer Border

    Agapanthus plants are tall with a globe of flowers on a single stem, not unlike their cousins, Alliums, and Amaryllis. Predominantly blues, purple and white with bigger more dramatic flowers than Alliums. Native to Southern Africa, and commonly called African Lilies although they are not Lilies at all. They love the sun, well-drained soil but can also stand some drought. Ideal for keeping in pots as you can control spread and concentrate the flowering.

    Agapanthus-African Lily Blue

    Rank

    Genus

    Names

    Scientific name:

    Agapanthus

    Common Names:

    African Lily, Lily of the Nile

    Genus:

    Agapanthus

    Family:

    Amaryllidaceae

    Related Plants:

    Allium, Amaryllis, Narcissus

    Growing Conditions

    Position:

    full sun

    Soil Type:

    sandy, loamy

    Soil pH:

    acid, neutral, alkaline

    Moisture:

    moist, well drained

  • Aquilegia – Columbine – Granny’s Bonnet

    Aquilegia, commonly referred to as Columbine or Granny’s Bonnet, is a quintessential element of any cottage garden, woodland garden, or border display. Its medium height and striking appearance allow it to harmonise beautifully with neighbouring plants. With a stunning variety of colours and unique forms, it captures the eye and offers endless pleasure to those who take the time to observe its intricate beauty. This plant not only enhances garden aesthetics but also plays a vital role in supporting local ecosystems by attracting a diverse range of pollinators.

    Granny’s Bonnet: A Colorful Addition to Your Garden

    Known for its unique flower heads, this plant gets its common names, Columbine and Granny’s Bonnet, from the distinctive shape reminiscent of a dove’s head or a traditional bonnet. The name Columbine comes from the Latin word columba, meaning ‘dove,’ while Aquilegia is derived from the Latin word aquila, meaning ‘eagle,’ reflecting the spurred petals that resemble talons. These striking flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, providing an interesting diversion from the big bold blooms.

    This fascinating genus within the family Ranunculaceae includes Buttercups.  It is easy to see the similarities, but the intricate forms of this flower provide a much more interesting specimen. There are about 130 different species that explore different colours and nuances of petal shape, each with its own unique characteristics and charm. From the delicate blue and white varieties to vibrant reds and yellows, the options are nearly endless.

    Modern hybrids are particularly captivating, often featuring two layers of petals in contrasting colours, creating a visually stunning effect. The spurred petals that extend behind the flower head add to the unique aesthetic of the plant, making it a favourite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike. The colour palette is extensive, including shades of purple, red, pink, white, yellow, and blue. This diversity allows for creative combinations in garden designs where they will complement similar plants.

    Granny's Bonnet

    Rank

    Genus

    Names

    Scientific name:

    Aquilegia

    Common Names:

    Columbine, Granny’s Bonnet

    Genus:

    Aquilegia

    Family:

    Ranunculaceae

    Related Plants:

    Buttercup, Clematis

    Growing Conditions

    Position:

    full sun, partial shade

    Soil Type:

    sandy, loamy

    Soil pH:

    acid, neutral, alkaline

    Moisture:

    moist, well drained

    Native to various regions, especially the temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere, Granny’s Bonnet thrives in diverse climates and conditions. Its ability to self-seed makes it an excellent choice for wild gardens, as it promotes natural growth and attracts pollinators such as bumblebees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. In favourable climates, the presence of this plant can significantly enhance the biodiversity of a garden, benefiting both the plants and the wildlife that depend on them.

    The height of these plants can vary, ranging from 1 to 3 feet depending on the specific variety and growing conditions. Their slim profile allows them to occupy minimal ground space, making them ideal for borders or mixed plantings. While they prefer a little shade from intense sunlight, they can tolerate full sun in cooler regions. A temperate climate with adequate moisture is essential for optimal growth, as they thrive in well-drained soil that is neither too wet nor too dry.

    Another important aspect to consider is the companion planting of this species. It pairs well with a variety of other flowers and greenery, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the garden. For example, planting alongside Foxgloves and Delphiniums can create a beautiful layered effect, with each plant contributing its unique shapes and colours. Moreover, these companion plants often have similar care requirements, making garden maintenance more manageable.

    In conclusion, this remarkable plant offers not only beauty but also ecological benefits. By understanding its unique characteristics and care requirements, gardeners can create stunning displays that contribute to the health of their local environments. Whether you are a novice gardener or an experienced horticulturist, incorporating this species into your garden can lead to a more vibrant, diverse, and sustainable landscape.

  • Calceolaria or Slipper Flower

    Calceolaria are a genus flowering plant from the family, Calceolariaceae. Commonly called the Slipper Flower, Lady’s Purse and Slipperwort, due to unusual flowers that resemble slippers or purses and calceolaria being from the Latin for shoe. Currently, there are only 3 genera in its family, although others may soon follow as modern dna analysis is re-classifying plants into their families. There are over 388 species of Calceolaria and that covers a wide range of different plants

    Natively, these plants are found mainly in the Andes Mountains but also anywhere from Southern Patagonia to Central Mexico. Many modern hybrids can be found to brighten up garden pots and hanging baskets.

    Calceolaria Slipper flower acid yellow close up 1

    Rank

    Genus

    Names

    Scientific name:

    Calceolaria

    Common Names:

    Slipper Flower, Lady’s Purse, Slipperwort

    Genus:

    Calceolaria

    Family:

    Calceolariaceae

    Related Plants:

    Porodittia, Jovellana

    Growing Conditions

    Position:

    full sun, partial shade, sheltered

    Soil Type:

    sandy, loamy, clay

    Soil pH:

    acid, neutral

    Moisture:

    moist

  • Armeria maritima – Sea Thrift

    Armeria maritima is a hardy perennial plant that grows in clumps and flowers from spring to summer with shades of pink that are best seen en masse.

    • Plant Family – Part of the Plumbaginaceae family or leadwort family. 
    • Native to – These flowering plants are native to the coastal regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
    • Common Names – It is often called Sea Thrift or Sea Pink.  The word thrift evidently comes from an Old Norse word meaning to thrive. Very apt for this plant as it makes the very best of rather poor ground to produce a display that will lift the spirits.
    • Flowers – The flower heads are formed in a round cluster on top of a thin but sturdy stem. The small flowers are various shades of pink. They remain upright on the thin stems to maintain a fine display.
    • Foliage – The dark green, glossy needle-like leaves form a clump or carpet from which the flower stalks grow to form a canopy.
    • Height and Spread – These are a low growing, ground cover plant that grow to a height of up to 18 inches, mostly shorter than that.  They tend to spread over time into a cluster and form a carpet that accentuates their beauty.
    • Position – These plants thrive in full sun location with a well drained soil, from acidic to alkaline. This makes them ideal for a rock garden, coastal gardens, but can also fit into any well-drained border or even a living roof.

    Overall, a plant that will cope with poor conditions to produce a flowering display and survive year on year with little maintenance.

    Armeria maritima - Sea Thrift

    Rank

    Species

    Names

    Scientific name:

    Armeria maritima

    Common Names:

    Sea Thrift, Sea Pink

    Genus:

    Armeria

    Family:

    Plumbaginaceae

    Related Plants:

    Plumbago, Leadworts

    Growing Conditions

    Position:

    full sun

    Soil Type:

    sandy, loamy, chalky, clay

    Soil pH:

    acid, neutral, alkaline

    Moisture:

    well drained

  • Camassia quamash

    Camassia quamash is a herbaceous perennial that resembles Bluebells and Hyacinth. That’s because it belongs to the same family Asparagaceae. Native of North America they are hardy in non-extreme climates. They readily spread if not contained to fill up any welcoming environment.

    Camassia quamash

    Rank

    Species

    Names

    Scientific name:

    Camassia quamash

    Common Names:

    camash

    Genus:

    Camassia

    Family:

    Asparagaceae

    Related Plants:

    Bluebells, Hyacinth

    Growing Conditions

    Position:

    full sun, partial shade

    Soil Type:

    chalky, sandy, loamy

    Soil pH:

    acid, neutral, alkaline

    Moisture:

    moist, well drained