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.

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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

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.

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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

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.

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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.

Gazania or African Daisy – Vibrant Hot Colours

Gazania or African Daisies are bold, bright flowers with hot colours that are suited to sunny, dry climates. Although being in the same family, they are a different genus to Osteospermum plants that are also commonly referred to as African Daisies. These plants are drought tolerant and like to have full sun to be at their best. Being in the shade will make the flowers close and may then grow thin taller stems unable to support the large flower head.

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Genus

Names
Scientific name:	Gazania
Common Names:	African Daisy, Treasure Flower
Genus:	Gazania
Family:	Asteraceae
Related Plants:	Aster, Daisy, Sunflower

Growing Conditions
Position:	full sun
Soil Type:	sandy, loamy
Soil pH:	weak-acid, neutral, weak-alkaline
Moisture:	dry, well drained

Antirrhinum – Snapdragon – border annual for a blaze of colour

Antirrhinum, commonly known as snapdragons, are a bright, bold colourful flowering border plant. The name “snapdragon” comes from the unique shape of the flowers, which resemble the face of a dragon that “snaps” open and shut when squeezed. The name Antirrhinum comes from the Greek, anti or opposite (or fake) and rhinos or nose. So again being like an animal’s mouth.

Antirrhinum, or snapdragon, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Plantaginaceae. These plants are native to Europe, North America, and North Africa. Whilst they are generally annuals, some are perennials or even sub-shrubs. They generally have a long flowering season from early summer to mid-autumn. Flowers start to bloom from the bottom of a thick stem and continue to bloom right up to the top. To keep them looking their best you can dead-head regularly once the lower flowers are looking spent.

Names
Scientific name:	Antirrhinum
Common Names:	Snapdragon
Genus:	Antirrhinum
Family:	Plantaginaceae
Related Plants:	Digitalis (Foxgloves), Hebe, Penstemon

Growing Conditions
Position:	full sun, partial shade
Soil Type:	sandy, chalky, loamy
Soil pH:	slightly acid, neutral
Moisture:	moist, well drained

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Genus

Do snapdragons like shade or sun? The answer to that is more complex. They can tolerate full sun or partial shade, as long as it is not too harsh. They do not have resilience to hot and dry climates but rather they like cool sun, moisture but well drained.

They are also known to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, so can add to the overall biodiversity of your garden or border. In addition to their ornamental appeal, snapdragons can serve practical functions in the garden. They can act as a natural deterrent for certain pests due to their strong scent. Planting them near vegetables or herbs can provide a natural repellent effect, thus protecting your crops. This symbiotic relationship between flowers and food plants can create a healthier garden ecosystem.

From a size perspective, they can range from 6 inches to 3-4 feet high. So choose your plants carefully, and plant in the right position to maximise the flowering display in relation tote other plants around them. Depending on how far back in the border they will be to give that layered look to the border. Dwarf varieties, of course, are perfect for the front of border.

As an annual plant, snapdragons usually complete their life cycle from seed to seed in one growing season. They can be used as cut flowers, making them a popular choice for bouquets and arrangements. When cut, snapdragons can last up to two weeks in a vase, allowing their beauty to be enjoyed indoors as well.

Snapdragons can be grown from seeds, which should be sown indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Alternatively, once the threat of frost has passed, they can be directly sown outdoors. Plants should be given adequately space to allow for their growth, typically around 6 to 12 inches apart, depending on the variety.

Modern varieties can be resilient but take care of aphids and diseases such as rust, mildew and wilt. Having Ladybirds/bugs around will help with the aphids. The diseases will require you planting in the right environment to control moisture and not spread disease from one plant to another. A correct balance of heat, breeze and moisture is important to avoid such disease.

Snapdragons are not just beautiful; they also have a rich history. Once a staple in English gardens, they were often used in herbal remedies. The flowers were believed to possess medicinal properties, and despite their beauty, they were a key ingredient in various potions. Today, they continue to symbolise grace and strength in floral arrangements, making them a favourite among florists and garden enthusiasts alike.

Convolvulus arvensis – A Pain In The Grass

Convolvulus arvensis, commonly known as field bindweed, makes a pretty show in the local wildlife meadow. However, if it’s allowed the space to prosper, it can be a real pain to subdue. If it invades farm crops then it can be hard to eradicate and cause loss of production.

It is one of many species in the family Convolvulaceae or bindweed family. In the garden we mainly see its bigger brother, the giant bindweed (Calystegia silvatica), that grows higher and further than the field variety.

Field bindweed has smaller pink and white flowers, less trumpet like, and smaller arrow-shaped leaves. It grows close to the ground and in a meadow situation has many more vigorous plants to compete against. Still, makes an attractive plant in the right situation.

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Species

Names
Scientific name:	Convolvulus arvensis
Common Names:	Field Bindweed
Genus:	Convolvulus
Family:	Convolvulaceae
Related Plants:	Calystegia, Morning Glory, Moonflower

Growing Conditions
Position:	full sun, partial shade
Soil Type:	chalky, clay, sandy, loamy
Soil pH:	weak-acid, neutral, alkaline
Moisture:	moist, well drained

Achillea or Yarrow – Colourful Flowering Border Plants

Achillea or Yarrow is a species of the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the daisy family. It has many small flowers in a cluster at the top of a thin stalk arising from the base plant and extending high towards the sunlight. It is a native, common wild flower but has many species and cultivars to expand on the basic wild variety.

The name Achillea is from Greek mythology as the leaves were used to treat the wounds of Achilles’ Soldiers. It has many other common names that relate to its medicinal use to heal wounds and stop blood flow.

Achillea or Yarrow, when not in the wild, is a tall flowering plant used in borders of cottage or wildlife gardens. Due to its height and slender form it can compete for space and thrive alongside its neighbours. It best sits mid border and provides clusters of small colourful flowers, tightly packed and resilient. Without neighbouring plants to help it may need support to keep it up and looking its best.

In the natural form the flowers are usually white and clusters as a tightly packed head at the top of the rising stem. There is now a wide variety of colours, from deep reds and pinks through orange, yellow and white. Easy to grow perennial that will keep spreading over time.

The leaves are fern like or feathered, frilly or hairy, and mainly come from the base but also interspaced up the main shoot that holds the flower head at the top. These leaves are often aromatic and edible in small quantities.

Achillea or Yarrows are very tolerant border perennials that can do well in most situations but don’t like heavy, wet soil. They are native to more temperate climates of the Northern Hemisphere.

There are more than 1000 named species, sub-species, or varieties assigned to the genus of Achillea. Two popular species are the Achillea millefolium, common yarrow, and the Achillea ptarmica, sneezewort. Generally, the millefolium has smaller and more tightly packed flower heads, whilst the ptarmica has larger more openly spread flower heads.

Achillea is a good plant to consider for not only its form and long flowering colourful displays, it is very attractive to insects that promote a wider pollination to improve biodiversity, but also has medicinal healing properties that have long been used to treat many different ailments.