Hyacinthoides non-scripta – Common Bluebell

The Common Bluebell, scientifically known as the Hyacithoides non-scripta, is to be found flowering in the woodlands of Western Europe and the British Isles. This bulbous perennial flowers, en masse, during April and May and produces a spectacle that has inspired and challenged artist for generations.

  • Plant Family – Part of the Asparagaceae family or asparagus family that includes Asparagus, Camassia, Hosta, Hyacinth and Yucca. 
  • Native to – These flowering plants are native to the areas of Western Europe near to the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Common Names – It is often called the Common Bluebell or Woodland Bluebell. 
  • Flowers – The flowers are small and bell shaped in a single violet-blue colour. The flowers grow on one side of the stem producing a curved flower head, unlike the Bluebells more often found in gardens.
  • Foliage – The leaves spread radially at ground level leaving the stems to grow from up and flower.
  • Height and Spread – The bulbs lay dormant in the ground over winter and come back to life in the spring. The leaves spread about 12″ around the base and the steps come up between 12″ to 18″ inches high.
  • Position – These plants thrive in a shaded or partially shaded location with a well drained soil. This makes them ideal in a woodland garden, but also work in a wildflower meadow, cottage garden or herbaceous border.

Overall, these plants will thrive and multiply, once established and protected from damage. Walking over them can lead to permanent damage that they will struggle to recover from. Admire from a distance.

Blinkling Hall - Great Wood - Bluebells May 2025 -8

Rank

Species

Names

Scientific name:

Hyacinthoides non-scripta

Common Names:

Bluebell

Genus:

Hyacinthoides

Family:

Asparagaceae

Related Plants:


Asparagus, Camassia, Hosta, Hyacinth and Yucca

Growing Conditions

Position:

partial shade

Soil Type:

sandy, loamy, chalky, clay

Soil pH:

acid, neutral, alkaline

Moisture:

moist, well drained

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Meconopsis – Himalayan Poppy

Meconopsis – Himalayan Poppy

Meconopsis is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Papaveraceae or Poppy family. These plants are often known for their beautiful blue petals, but they also come in a variety of purple, white and yellow. Commonly referred to as Himalayan Poppy as they are found natively in the Himalayan Mountains. Given their natural habitat, these plants are fairly hardy, but remain difficult to because being monocarpic they only flower and set seed only once.

Meconopsis Taxonomy

The name comes from the Greek for ‘poppy like’, and so other Poppy type flowers were Meconopsis genus. Most Poppies are listed in their own Papaver genus, Papaver being Latin for Poppy, but the Meconopsis genus is kept separate for these Himalayan flowers. All poppies belong to the Order Ranunculales, or Buttercups.

Meconopsis Strathspey Himalayan Poppy single

Rank

Genus

Names

Scientific name:

Meconopsis

Common Names:

Himalayan Poppy

Genus:

Meconopsis

Family:

Papavercaceae

Related Plants:

Poppy, Buttercup

Growing Conditions

Position:

partial shade, sheltered

Soil Type:

clay, loamy

Soil pH:

acid, neutral

Moisture:

moist, well drained

Aquilegia pink -white

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, Aquilegia 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.

Known for its unique flower heads, Aquilegia 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.

Aquilegia is a fascinating genus within the family Ranunculaceae, which 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 of Aquilegia 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.

Aquilegia vulgaris purple 2

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, Columbine 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 Aquilegia can significantly enhance the biodiversity of a garden, benefiting both the plants and the wildlife that depend on them.

The height of Aquilegia 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 Aquilegia prefers a little shade from intense sunlight, it can tolerate full sun in cooler regions. A temperate climate with adequate moisture is essential for optimal growth, as the plants thrive in well-drained soil that is neither too wet nor too dry.

Another important aspect to consider is the companion planting of Aquilegia. This plant pairs well with a variety of other flowers and greenery, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the garden. For example, planting Aquilegia 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, Aquilegia is a remarkable plant that 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 Aquilegia into your garden can lead to a more vibrant, diverse, and sustainable landscape.

Gazania or African Daisy – Vibrant Hot Colours

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.

Gazania African Daisy 12

Rank

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

Camassia quamash

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

Japanese Anemone

Anemone – Japanese Anemone – Easy to Grow Tall Perennial

Japanese Anemone are perennials that are characterised by tall stalks and flat wide single flowers in an array of different colours. They are simple to grow but in heavy shade tend to get leggy and require support. This is especially true for the Japanese Anemone but there are varieties such as the ‘wood anemone’ that grow closer to the ground and ideal for more shady areas.

Popular hybrids like the ‘Richard Ahrens’ can grow up to 1 metre tall and has flowers of 7-8cm across. The contrasting pale pink with dark pink edge and vivid yellow stamens make a pleasing contrast with lush green surroundings. They are easy to grow and will spread if not restrained.

In the winter they will recede back to the tuberous roots and re-appear in the spring provided the roots have not been waterlogged.

Due to their height and little need for attention they are a good option for mid flower border or informal cottage garden and will attract insects and other wildlife to add to the an overall healthy ecology.

Anemone Japanese 1

Rank

Species

Names

Scientific name:

Anemone x hybrida

Common Names:

Japanese Anemone

Genus:

Anemone

Family:

Ranunculaceae

Related Plants:

Buttercup, Clematis, Aquilegia

Growing Conditions

Position:

full sun, partial shade

Soil Type:

sandy, loamy, chalky, clay

Soil pH:

acid, neutral, alkaline

Moisture:

moist, well drained

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

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 1

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