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Acanthus spinosus NCG 001 Acanthus spinosus
Bear's Britches

This stately, dramatic plant is happiest in full sun, but will also tolerate deep shade. Very useful cut flower, both fresh and dried. The flower spikes, with white blooms with purple bracts, appear above deeply divided dark green foliage.

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Acer griseum AGM NCG 080 Acer griseum AGM
Paper Bark Maple

A small to medium sized ornamental tree which lends interest to the garden at all times of year. Small, yellow flowers appear in spring, followed by fresh green foliage in spring and summer, then spectacular orange, red and pink autumn foliage in autumn. At all times of year the chestnut-red…

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Achillea millefolium NCG 233 Achillea millefolium
Common Yarrow, Milfoil

A plant of many names! It has variously been called, Devil's Nettle, Hundred-leaved Grass, Lace Plant, Milfoil, Nose Pepper, Nosebleed, Sanguinarya and Soldier's Woundwort (to name just a few), some clearly referring to its medicinal properties, others to its appearance. Whilst many cultivars are available, this wild flower is white…

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Achillea millefolium, Pink NCG 638 Achillea millefolium, Pink
Pink yarrow

A cultivar of the familiar white or cream wild flower, with flat heads of tiny, deep-pink blooms with white eyes, held on wiry stems clothed in very fine, ferny, dark-green foliage. Attractive to bees, hoverflies and other beneficial insects.

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Achillea ptarmica 'The Pearl' NCG 456 Achillea ptarmica 'The Pearl'
Sneezewort 'The Pearl'

'The Pearl' produces sprays of small, white, double flowers on wiry stems about 24 inches/60cm high, with narrow, toothed leaves. A spreading plant which is not too difficult to control in lighter soils. The blooms tend to last longer if the plant is sited in part shade, but full sunlight…

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Acis Syn. Leucojum autumnalis Syn. autumnale NCG 399 Acis Syn. Leucojum autumnalis Syn. autumnale
Autumn Snowflake

Little white nodding bells on slender, red stems appear from late summer above bright-green, grass-like foliage. This is an attractive and unusual plant for the front of the border or in containers. Although said to prefer full sun, mine are in part shade and flourish there. Classified as half hardy,…

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Aconitum Carmichaelii Var. arendsii NCG 129 Aconitum Carmichaelii Var. arendsii
Autumn-flowering monkshood, Chinese aconite

Full description to come, but please note: All parts of the plant are extremely toxic - it is highly advisable to wear gloves when handling and to wash hands if accidentally touched.

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Acorus  gramineus 'Ogon' NCG 722 Acorus gramineus 'Ogon'
Golden Japanese rush, Variegated slender sweet flag

Although strictly speaking a marginal pond plant, this small and attractive grass-like plant will grow successfully in almost any reasonable, moist soil - in fact it seems quite content in quite dry spots in my garden. It produces strongly variegated, green and yellow, fan-shaped tufts of stiff, aromatic foliage and…

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Actaea simplex 'Black Negligee' NCG 756 Actaea simplex 'Black Negligee'
Baneberry, Bugbane

Formerly known as Cimicifuga racemosa, this tall, dynamic plant produces bold cut foliage of a deep burgundy colour - almost black. Racemes of tiny, white or pinkish flowers appear on tall, arching stems in summer. Highly recommended.

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Adenophora latifolia 'Amethyst' NCG 224 Adenophora latifolia 'Amethyst'
Ladybells

Sometimes confused with campanula, to which it is related, this plant is more delicate. It has nodding bells in a lovely soft shade of violet-blue, borne on straight stems with dark-green toothed foliage.

NOTE: The plants have a rather scrambling root system and are difficult to split tidily.…

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Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop' NCG 499 Aeonium arboreum 'Zwartkop'
Tree aeonium, Tree houseleek, Irish rose

Description coming soon.

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Agapanthus campanulatus var. albidus NCG 087 Agapanthus campanulatus var. albidus
White bell agapanthus

Given the right conditions - full sun and rich, moisture retentive but well-drained soil, this deciduous form of Agapanthus will reward with lovely white blooms above bright green strap-like leaves, particularly if fed regularly. A good choice for large containers, but must be kept well-watered. Generally hardy, but may benefit…

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Agastache foeniculum NCG 700 Agastache foeniculum
Anise hyssop, Licorice mint

Soft spikes of blue flowers adorn this pretty perennial wildflower throughout the summer, above strong stems with dark-green, nettle-like leaves. All parts of the plant have a strong scent of aniseed. Also known as Agastache foeniculum or Lophanthus anisatus.

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Agrostemma githago Syn. nicaeense NCG 639 Agrostemma githago Syn. nicaeense
Corncockle, Bastard nigella, Corn pink. Joy of love

This delightful annual wildflower has pink, five-petalled flowers surrounding by elongated calyxes, on strong, upright stems with narrow leaves. Should happily self-seed but unwanted plants are not difficult to remove.

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Ajuga reptans NCG 420 Ajuga reptans
Common bugle, Blue bugle, Carpetweed

Creeping bugle is a low-growing, evergreen plant that is useful to provide ground cover or to grow between paving stones. It produces spikes of rich blue/purple flowers in Spring, above dark, sometimes almost black, foliage.

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Alcea rosea Ex. 'Jet Black' NCG 302 Alcea rosea Ex. 'Jet Black'
Hollyhock, Ex. 'Jet Black'

Deepest, deepest red-purple - as close to black as you can get! Although strictly speaking a perennial, this very popular cottage garden plant is best treated as a biennial, particularly since it can be susceptible to rust. These are very tall plants and some support is recommended.

NOTE: Since…

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Alcea rosea, mixed NCG 005 Alcea rosea, mixed
Hollyhock, single

I am offering here not only mixed-colour seeds but a selection of packets containing seed collected from individual plants that I thought particularly pretty, but they cannot be guaranteed to come true. (NOTE: Seeds from black hollyhock are listed separately.)

Although strictly speaking a perennial, this very popular cottage…

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Alcea rugosa NCG 590 Alcea rugosa
Russian hollyhock, Yellow fig-leaved hollyhock

Hollyhocks, although strictly speaking perennials, are usually grown as biennials, chiefly because they are susceptible to rust. However, this pale-yellow-flowered variety, with fig-leaf shaped foliage, is said to be a true perennial, being less prone to rust. The flowers are distinctive in that, unlike other hollyhocks, they have a lobed…

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Alchemilla alpina NCG 585 Alchemilla alpina
Alpine lady's mantle

My favourite alchemilla - the delicate, deeply cut, silver edged leaves of this small plant are altogether more refined than those of other varieties. Lovely at the front of the border and useful in containers. Sprays of tiny yellow-green flowers on wiry stems appear in spring and summer.

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Alchemilla erythropoda AGM NCG 313 Alchemilla erythropoda AGM
Dwarf lady's mantle

Much daintier than the familiar Alchemilla mollis, this miniature variety looks lovely at the front of the border or in containers. Sprays of tiny yellow-green flowers on short, wiry, reddish stems appear in spring and summer.

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Alkekengi officinarum Syn. Physalis alkekengi NCG 097 Alkekengi officinarum Syn. Physalis alkekengi
Chinese Lanterns

Familiar to many as an ingredient in dried flower arrangements, with its rich orange lanterns, many do not know that the small red fruit contained in within the husks is edible and has a higher concentration of vitamin C than lemons! However, the rest of the plant is poisonous, so…

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Allium  cristophii AGM NCG 095 Allium cristophii AGM
Star of Persia

Beautiful giant orbs of lilac flowers are followed by exquisite spherical seed heads and are wonderful for dried flower arrangements. The dried stems are very weak; the solution is to very carefully push a slender woody stem (I use willow) or heavy wire down the stem, preferably while it is…

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Allium  fistulosum NCG 007 Allium fistulosum
Welsh Onion, Bunching Onion

A non-bulbing 'bunching onion' that is useful when just a hint of onion is required. An attractive plant that can be grown in an ornamental bed. Bees and other beneficial insects love it!

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Allium hollandicum 'Purple Sensation' AGM NCG 435 Allium hollandicum 'Purple Sensation' AGM
Ornamental Onion 'Purple Sensation'

The perfect choice for hot and dry conditions, this beautiful allium looks wonderful planted in drifts. The umbels of rich, purple flowers are 3 inches across and borne on strong, upright stems.

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Allium hollandicum Syn. aflatunense NCG 681 Allium hollandicum Syn. aflatunense
Persian onion

The seeds offered have been collected from particularly rich-magenta flowers. The 3 inch globes have prominent stamens and look wonderful grown en masse!

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Allium moly NCG 784 Allium moly
Yellow garlic

Clusters of golden-yellow, starry flowers adorn this lovely bulbous plant in late Spring to early Summer.

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Allium ostrowskianum syn. oreophilum NCG 785 Allium ostrowskianum syn. oreophilum
Mountain lover, Pink lily leek

Description coming soon.

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Allium schubertii AGM NCG 343 Allium schubertii AGM
Persian onion, Schubert's onion, Tumbleweed onion

Looking for all the world like fireworks, giant orbs of lilac flowers are followed by exquisite seed heads that and are wonderful for dried flower arrangements. The dried stems are very weak; the solution is to very carefully push a slender woody stem (I use willow) or heavy wire down…

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Allium ursinum NCG 721 Allium ursinum
Ramsons, Wild garlic

The wide, bright green leaves of this pretty woodland plant have a mild garlic flavour and can be used in salads. In spring it produces attractive heads of small white flowers - which are also edible, as are the shoots, stems, roots and seeds! Ransoms require shady, moist conditions.

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Allium vineale NCG 401 Allium vineale
Crow garlic

Although crow garlic is often considered a weed (the bulbils produced at the tip of the stems fall to the ground and can cause it to spread rather too eagerly!), if you don't have space to grow proper garlic but would like to add a hint of fresh garlic to…

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Allium Syn. Nectaroscordum siculum NCG 215 Allium Syn. Nectaroscordum siculum
Mediterranean Bells, Sicilian Honey Lily, Ornamental Onion, Sicilian Garlic

A fascinating plant! Clusters of waxy, bell-shaped flowers in shades of cream, pink and green appear in early summer, dangling on tall, slender stems. As the seed pods develop the flowers turn upwards. In some European countries the plant is more likely to be found in the vegetable plot than…

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Aloe barbadensis NCG 846 Aloe barbadensis
Aloe vera, Barbados aloe,

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Alonsoa warscewiczii syn. meridionalis NCG 451 Alonsoa warscewiczii syn. meridionalis
Mask flower

A native of Peru, this is one of my favourite discoveries! The stems of this tender perennial are strong and wiry and the small leaves are a rich green. The flowers, which are about an inch across and rich vermillion-red, opening from sweet little pouch-like buds, are produced in profusion…

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Alstroemeria Ex. Orange NCG 600 Alstroemeria Ex. Orange
Peruvian Lily

Alstromeria with their bright, beautifully marked, lily-like blooms, look far too exotic for our climate but they are hardy plants that will survive in almost any situation.

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Alstroemeria Ligtu Hybrids NCG 610 Alstroemeria Ligtu Hybrids
Peruvian lily

Flowers in a range of colours, from white through warm yellows, oranges and reds to shades of pink, on strong, straight stems with glossy foliage. Prefers soil that is not too limey.

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Alstroemeria pulchella Syn. psittacina 'Mona Lisa' NCG 462 Alstroemeria pulchella Syn. psittacina 'Mona Lisa'
Lily of the Incas, Peruvian Lily, Parrot lily

Unlike many other Peruvian lilies, 'Mona Lisa' is known to come true from seed. It makes a wonderful cut flower (if you can bear to remove it from the garden!), with large heads of dark-red, speckled flowers with tinges of green on strong, straight stems with glossy foliage. Prefers soil…

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Ammi majus NCG 088 Ammi majus
False Bishop's Weed, Herb William

Rather like cow parsley, but both flowers and foliage are much finer. This annual is a very useful filler plant for flower arrangers and is very attractive to bees. Plant en masse for best effect. A similar, but less well known plant (in my opinion far superior, and a perennial…

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Ampelopsis glandulosa var. brevipedunculata NCG 148 Ampelopsis glandulosa var. brevipedunculata
Porcelain berry

This vine-like plant is attractive in all respects, but particularly for its stunningly coloured berries, which range from soft blue-green through turquoise to purple. It grows vigorously in the right conditions. Positioning on a sheltered south-facing wall in poorish soil and restricting root growth gives the best environment for reliable…

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Amsonia tabernaemontana NCG 574 Amsonia tabernaemontana
Rhazya, Eastern Bluestar

A clump-forming perennial with willowy, dark green leaves and clusters of sky-blue, starry flowers in spring and summer.

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Anemanthele lessoniana NCG 749 Anemanthele lessoniana
Pheasant's tail grass

Syn. Stipa arundinacea - full description soon.

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Anemone pavonina NCG 326 Anemone pavonina
Peacock anemone

This spectacular, spring-flowering anemone is a Mediterranean species with dark-green leaves and bright, cup-shaped blooms in pink, purple or red, usually with a white eye. It is happiest in a sunny position in free-draining soil, either towards the front of a border, in containers or naturalised in grass.

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Anemone Syn. Eriocapitella hupehensis 'Hadspen Abundance' AGM NCG 167 Anemone Syn. Eriocapitella hupehensis 'Hadspen Abundance' AGM
Windflower 'Hadspen Abundance'

Japanese anemones are best grown in a position where there is space for them to spread. They can be invasive but this is weighed against their attractiveness and usefulness in the garden. 'Hadspen Abundance' is a medium-sized plant with dark green lobed foliage on strong, straight stems which support pink…

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Anemone Syn. Eriocapitella hupehensis 'Prinz Heinrich' NCG 513 Anemone Syn. Eriocapitella hupehensis 'Prinz Heinrich'
Windflower 'Prinz Heinrich'

Japanese anemones are best grown in a position where there is space for them to spread. They can be invasive but this is weighed against their attractiveness and usefulness in the garden. 'Prinz Heinrich' is a medium-sized plant with dark green lobed foliage on strong, straight stems which support very…

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Anemone Syn. Eriocapitella x hybrida  'Honorine Jobert' AGM NCG 067 Anemone Syn. Eriocapitella x hybrida 'Honorine Jobert' AGM
Japanese Anemone 'Honorine Jobert'

Japanese anemones are best grown in a position where there is space for them to spread. They can be invasive but this is weighed against their attractiveness and usefulness in the garden. A tall plant with dark green lobed foliage on strong, straight stems which support clear white cupped flowers…

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Anemone Syn. Eriocapitella x hybrida Ex. 'Pretty Lady Emily' NCG 714 Anemone Syn. Eriocapitella x hybrida Ex. 'Pretty Lady Emily'
Japanese anemone Ex. 'Pretty Lady Emily'

Japanese anemones are best grown in a position where there is space for them to spread. They can be invasive but this is weighed against their attractiveness and usefulness in the garden. 'Pretty Lady Emily' produces very pale-pink, double flowers with a rich yellow centre.

NOTE: Seeds, when…

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Anthemis tinctoria 'Sauce Hollandaise' NCG 082 Anthemis tinctoria 'Sauce Hollandaise'
Mayweed, Golden Marguerite, Dyer's Chamomile

With its masses of creamy-yellow daisy-like flowers on wiry stems with finely divided aromatic foliage, this drought-tolerant plant is a bright and cheerful choice for dry areas, although it will be happy in most soils. Cut back hard in the autumn to encourage strong new shoots in the spring. The…

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Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing' NCG 278 Anthriscus sylvestris 'Ravenswing'
Black-leaved Cow Parsley

The finely divided, ferny, deep-purple, almost black leaves of this unusual plant make a lovely contrast with other plants, particularly those that have predominantly light-green foliage. The flat heads of tiny flowers are white with small pink bracts. Please note that not all plants produced from the seeds offered will…

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Antirrhinum majus 'Black Prince' NCG 708 Antirrhinum majus 'Black Prince'
Snapdragon 'Black Prince'

Although strictly speaking perennial, antirrhinums are more often treated as annuals. This variety, which is tall, with deep, red-green foliage and very dark red (almost black) blooms, makes a dynamic statement, particularly when grown next to plants with light-green foliage. Highly recommended.

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Antirrhinum majus Ex. tall, red NCG 188 Antirrhinum majus Ex. tall, red
Snapdragon, Ex. tall, deep-red

Although a perennial, antirrhinums are usually treated as annuals. These seeds were collected from particularly tall, velvety-red plants. Since other antirrhinums are grown in the garden I cannot guarantee that all will breed true.

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Antirrhinum majus ssp. tortuosum NCG 283 Antirrhinum majus ssp. tortuosum
Greater Snapdragon

The seeds of this unusual variety of antirrhinum were collected in the Rif Mountains, Morocco. The plant has a rather lax, sprawling habit and bright, purplish-red blooms, Although a perennial, antirrhinums are usually treated as annuals, but you can try cutting them back from late autumn to early spring.

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Antirrhinum majus, mixed NCG 008 Antirrhinum majus, mixed
Snapdragon, mixed

Although usually perennial, antirrhinums are generally treated as annuals. This is a mixture in many colours and heights, from medium-sized to dwarf (usually distinguishable early in their lives by small leaves, and tending to a trailing habit, making them a useful in hanging baskets). A children's favourite! NOTE: Separate colours…

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Apium graveolens secalinum NCG 236 Apium graveolens secalinum
Leaf celery, Wild celery, 'Par-Cel', Smallage

Looking almost identical to flat leaved parsley, all parts of this plant have a strong celery scent and flavour. Add a sprig or finely chopped leaves to stocks and sauces. The insignificant flowers are white, followed by masses of seed, which can be used to make celery salt (hover over…

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Aquilegia chrysantha 'Denver Gold' NCG 891 Aquilegia chrysantha 'Denver Gold'
Denver Gold yellow spurred columbine

A lovely, sunny, golden-yellow spurred variety of aquilegia. Long flowering and very attractive to pollinating insects. The foliage is lush and glaucous, with a tendency to be evergreen.

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Aquilegia oxysepala NCG 492 Aquilegia oxysepala
Oriental columbine, granny's bonnet

This unusual little wild columbine with brownish-red skirts and soft-yellow centres originates from Mount Konsai in Japan and is very hardy. Much recommended. (Externally sourced seeds.)

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Aquilegia viridiflora 'Chocolate Soldier' NCG 609 Aquilegia viridiflora 'Chocolate Soldier'
Columbine 'Chocolate Soldier'

Unusual chocolate-brown petals with contrasting yellow-green stamens make this little aquilegia a stunning addition to the garden. Works well at front of border of in rockeries. Highly recommended!

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Aquilegia vulgaris 'Miss M I Huish' NCG 793 Aquilegia vulgaris 'Miss M I Huish'
Granny's bonnet, Columbine 'Miss M I Huish'

A beautiful, deep-violet, spurless, double variety of the classic cottage garden plant.

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Aquilegia vulgaris Clementine 'Salmon Rose' NCG 146 Aquilegia vulgaris Clementine 'Salmon Rose'
Columbine, Granny's Bonnet 'Salmon Rose'

Beautiful spurless, double, salmon-pink blooms on wiry stems - a very special aquilegia! These seeds were taken from plants away from other aquilegias, but it is still possible that there has been some cross-pollination. However, in my experience this variety tends to breed true.

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Aquilegia vulgaris Ex. 'William Guiness' NCG 570 Aquilegia vulgaris Ex. 'William Guiness'
Aquilegia 'Magpie', Columbine, Granny's Bonnet

Known both as A. 'Magpie' and A. 'William Guinness', this striking variety has deep red-purple (almost black) sepals and spurs and white-edged 'blades' - the modified petals at the centre of the flower.

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Aquilegia vulgaris Ex. Alba NCG 275 Aquilegia vulgaris Ex. Alba
Granny's Bonnet - White

There is a large clump of the single white variety of this familiar and much loved cottage garden plant established behind the pond, and it often breeds true. Although there could be some cross-pollination with other colours in the garden, I am confident that the seeds offered will produce a…

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Aquilegia vulgaris Ex. var. stellata 'Nora Barlow' NCG 009 Aquilegia vulgaris Ex. var. stellata 'Nora Barlow'
Columbine, Granny's Bonnet, 'Nora Barlow'

This dainty aquilegia has double, spurless blooms in muted shades of pink, green. Not much more to say other than that it is my favourite aquilegia and is quite delightful! Since other aquilegia are grown in the garden there is the possibility of cross-pollination, but in my experience these seeds…

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Aquilegia vulgaris, Ex. Pink, single NCG 276 Aquilegia vulgaris, Ex. Pink, single
Granny's bonnet, pink, single

It's not possible to guarantee that these seeds will come true, but they were gathered from such a pretty pink plant that I decided to save them separately from the other plants in the garden. If they fail to produce pink flowers, they will reward you with a lovely selection…

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Aquilegia vulgaris, various NCG 298 Aquilegia vulgaris, various
Granny's bonnet, various

A mixture of single, double and ruffled plants or seeds in a variety of colours - dark-purple, blue, white and pink. I'm also offering packets containing seeds from specific plants, but there may be some cross-pollination.

Note: Plants, when offered, may be bare-rooted, depending on season.

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Argemone mexicana NCG 010 Argemone mexicana
Mexican Poppy, Prickly Poppy

This unusual and attractive late-flowering plant with distinctive vareigated and prickly leaves is drought tolerant. The poppy-like, papery lemon-yellow blooms have red-orange centres and are a welcome sight at a time of year when other flowers are saying their goodbyes. Watch out! All parts of the plant are, true to…

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Armeria pseudarmeria NCG 434 Armeria pseudarmeria
Sea thrift

The pretty little soft-red, globe-shaped flowerheads on stems 8-12in/20-30cm tall rising above low-growing rosettes of evergreen foliage are a magnet for pollinating insects. These tough plants are easy to grow and tolerate quite harsh conditions and poor, sandy soil.

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Arum italicum subsp. italicum 'Marmoratum' AGM NCG 011 Arum italicum subsp. italicum 'Marmoratum' AGM
Italian arum 'Marmoratum', Variegated Cuckoopint, Lords-and-Ladies

The boldly marbled, arrow-shaped leaves appear in autumn and last right through most of the year. Seedlings may look unpromising at first, but as the plants grow the leaves develop their beautiful markings. Plant under trees to light up dark areas. When plants are on offer they are usually self…

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Aruncus dioicus AGM NCG 247 Aruncus dioicus AGM
Goat's beard, Buck's beard, Bride's feathers

Resembling an astilbe, but larger and more vigorous, this stunning plant gives a wonderful display of creamy-white, feathery flower plumes in late spring to early summer. The flowers retain their freshness longer in more shady areas, but the plant will also perform well in full sun. Well deserving of the…

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Asparagus officinalis NCG 400 Asparagus officinalis
Garden asparagus

Growing this delicious and exceedingly healthy vegetable from seed might seem a strange idea, since there is a long wait before even crowns can be harvested. Seed-grown asparagus means another year's wait, but the plants will tend to be stronger and healthier than those from bare-rooted crowns that may have…

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Asphodeline Syn. Asphodelus lutea Syn. luteus, flava NCG 369 Asphodeline Syn. Asphodelus lutea Syn. luteus, flava
Yellow candle

This unusual plant bears fragrant, star-shaped yellow or white flowers in spring, rising above narrow, grassy leaves.

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Aster novae-angliae NCG 230 Aster novae-angliae
New England Aster 'Purple Dome', Michaelmas Daisy

This very pretty aster has a compact form, generally needing no support. From late summer it is studded with hundreds of rich, pinkish-purple flowers with yellow centres. It continues to flower even past the first frosts, providing welcome colour at the back end of the year. A very good cut…

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Aster Novae-angliae 'Harringtons Pink' AGM NCG 391 Aster Novae-angliae 'Harringtons Pink' AGM
New England aster 'Harrington's Pink'.

A wonderful cut flower, this aster has tall, strong, straight stems and is self-supporting on all but the most exposed sites. The flowers, which appear from late summer and well into autumn, are about 3.5cm across, a lovely warm-pink with a yellow centre and are very attractive to pollinating insects.…

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Astrantia major 'Roma' NCG 826 Astrantia major 'Roma'
Masterwort 'Roma'

A lovely mid-pink variety of the traditional cottage garden plant. Astrantias are happy in shade and are said to repel slugs, so try planting near hostas. They are, though, tolerant of sun if kept well watered. They make a very good cut flower which lasts well and also can usually…

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Astrantia major 'Ruby Wedding' NCG 176 Astrantia major 'Ruby Wedding'
Masterwort 'Ruby Wedding'

An exquisite, deep-red variety of the traditional cottage garden plant.

NOTE: Seeds, when offered, have been collected exclusively from this variety, but since there are other astrantia in the garden there is the possibility of some cross-pollination.

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Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated' NCG 539 Astrantia major 'Sunningdale Variegated'
Masterwort 'Sunningdale Variegated'

This lovely astrantia produces masses of the usual pincushion blooms, which are pink with green tinges. But it really comes into its own in early spring, when the young foliage has strong white and green variegation. The white changes to cream and then yellow as the season progresses, and eventually…

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Astrantia major subsp. involucrata 'Shaggy' AGM NCG 012 Astrantia major subsp. involucrata 'Shaggy' AGM
Masterwort 'Shaggy' (a.k.a. 'Margery Fish')

This astrantia form, with its white pincushion blooms, which are tinted green, is happy in shade and is said to repel slugs, so try planting near hostas. Makes a very good cut flower which lasts well and also can usually be successfully dried for winter arrangements. Although harvested from plants…

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Astrantia major, deep pink NCG 827 Astrantia major, deep pink
Masterwort, deep pink

A lovely deep-pink variety of the traditional cottage garden plant. I don't know its name, unfortunately.

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Astrantia maxima AGM NCG 378 Astrantia maxima AGM
Largest Masterwort

This lovely astrantia has a long flowering period. Rings of stiff, finely toothed, rich-pink bracts surround umbels of very small, pink flowers on straight, wiry stems above attractive, deeply-lobed, bright-green foliage. The plant has a spreading habit but is generally not difficult to control. Much recommended!

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Astrantia mixed NCG 069 Astrantia mixed
Masterwort, mixed

This astrantia mix should produce pincushion blooms which are pink or white with green tinges. It is happy in shade and is said to repel slugs, so try planting near hostas. Makes a very good cut flower which lasts well and also can usually be successfully dried for winter arrangements.

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Barbarea verna NCG 091 Barbarea verna
American land cress, Winter Cress, Wild Rocket

Perhaps the best thing about wild rocket is that (as its other common name makes clear!) it produces lush foliage at times when other salad plants are not available. Its strong, pungent flavour is not dissimilar to water cress. Finely chopped, it makes an interesting addition to sandwiches. Treat as…

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Begonia sutherlandii NCG 863 Begonia sutherlandii
Sutherland begonia

Lovely in hanging baskets and containers, this very pretty trailing begonia was introduced to the UK from Natal in the mid 19th century. It produces masses of tiny orange flowers all summer beneath, small, rich-green, toothed leaves. They are likely to survive winters outside in milder areas, but it is…

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Belamcanda chinensis NCG 381 Belamcanda chinensis
Leopard lily

This most attractive perennial, which bears vividly orange blooms with dark spots, is a member of the Iris family. A lovely addition to a sunny hot bed, where it thrives even in quite arid conditions, although it will also tolerate light shade. A plant that is very easy to grow…

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Berkheya purpurea NCG 885 Berkheya purpurea
Purple berkheya

Description coming soon.

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Bidens ferulifolia 'Golden Goddess' NCG 207 Bidens ferulifolia 'Golden Goddess'
Bidens 'Golden Goddess'

A taller variety than the familiar hanging basket and container Bidens, this bright and cheery plant looks lovely planted en masse in the hot bed, alongside other orange and yellow-flowering plants such as Cosmos polidor and Tagetes tenuifolia. The foliage is very attractive too - finely divided leaves are a…

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Billbergia nutans NCG 688 Billbergia nutans
Queen's tears, Friendship plant

A bromeliad native to South America, the Friendship plant is so called because it produces side shoots which can be removed and grown on give to friends and family. The flowers are a kaleidoscope of pink, green, purple and yellow. They are evergreen perennials, generally quite forgiving of cold -…

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Billbergia x windii NCG 746 Billbergia x windii
Angel's tears, Friendship plant

A bromeliad native to South America with flowers in a kaleidoscope of pink, green, purple and yellow. They are evergreen perennials, generally quite forgiving of cold - mine survive well over the winter in an insulated but unheated greenhouse, and spend the rest of the year outside in dappled sunshine,…

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Bistorta officinalis 'Superba' NCG 618 Bistorta officinalis 'Superba'
Red bistort 'Superba'

Soft spikes of tiny pink flowers on straight stems from May and well into the summer, above broad, deeply veined, grey-green leaves. Makes good ground cover. Spreads rapidly by underground runners but these are not far beneath the surface, so are easily removed in open ground as required. (Synonym Persicaria…

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Borago officinalis 'Bianca' NCG 703 Borago officinalis 'Bianca'
Borage 'Bianca' (White)

Like the common blue borage, this white variant is edible. The flowers, which have a flavour reminiscent of cucumber, can be added to summer drinks or as a garnish on salads and other cold dishes. The leaves can also be added, wilted, to Mediterranean recipes such as pasta sauces and…

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Borago officinalis, Blue NCG 593 Borago officinalis, Blue
Borage, Blue

Borage is edible - the flowers, which have a flavour reminiscent of cucumber, can be added to summer drinks or as a garnish on salads and other cold dishes. The leaves can also be added, wilted, to Mediterranean recipes such as pasta sauces and to ravioli stuffing. Borage is very…

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Brimeura amethystina AGM NCG 242 Brimeura amethystina AGM
Amethyst hyacinth, Spanish hyacinth

The delicate, pale blue, nodding bells of this pretty bulbous plant are fragrant and much loved by butterflies. Although the common name refers to it as a hyacinth, it is in fact only distantly related. NOTE: Not to be confused with the Spanish bluebell, which is a thug and…

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Brunnera  macrophylla 'Jack Frost' NCG 550 Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost'
Siberian bugloss 'Jack Frost'

One of my favourite spring-flowering plants, with delicate sprays of sky-blue flowers, somewhat similar to forget-me-not, but with rather more wiry flower stems, above large, heart-shaped, exquisitely marked leaves. NOTE: Depending on the season, plants, when offered, may be delivered bare-rooted and trimmed back, but will soon produce fresh growth.

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Brunnera macrophylla NCG 691 Brunnera macrophylla
Siberian bugloss

One of my favourite spring-flowering plants, with delicate sprays of sky-blue flowers, somewhat similar to forget-me-not, but with rather more wiry flower stems, above large, rich-green, heart-shaped leaves.

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Bupleurum rotundifolium 'Griffithii' NCG 171 Bupleurum rotundifolium 'Griffithii'
Common Hare's Ear

A very useful filler both in the flower beds and in flower arrangements (fresh or dried), this plant resembles euphorbia, but without the irritating, milky sap. The foliage is bluish-green and the tiny flowers a vivid yellow-green. Gently self-seeds.

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Calendula officinalis NCG 049 Calendula officinalis
Pot Marigold

One of the most recognisable and popular cottage garden plants, this Calendula mixture will light up the garden for many months with an abundance of yellow and orange blooms, some double. Makes a nice addition to small flower arrangements, so cut often to encourage repeat flowering and to keep the…

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Calendula officinalis 'Sunset Buff' NCG 551 Calendula officinalis 'Sunset Buff'
Pot marigold 'Sunset Buff'

A variation on one of the most recognisable and popular cottage garden plants, 'Sunset Buff' produces double (and perhaps the occasional single) flowers in soft, peachy tones with red backs. Makes a nice addition to small flower arrangements, so cut often to encourage repeat flowering and to keep the plants…

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Callistephus chinensis, Ex. single white NCG 854 Callistephus chinensis, Ex. single white
Chinese aster, single white

Masses of white, single flowers with prominent yellow centres adorn this plant from mid-summer into autumn.

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Campanula glomerata NCG 404 Campanula glomerata
Clustered bellflower, Dane's blood

Clusters of deep-blue bell-shaped flowers on straight stems from early summer. A very pretty plant, but spreads by underground runners and can be rather invasive, so position carefully.

Note: Bare-rooted plants, when on offer, may look a little untidy, particularly early in the year. Don't worry - they will establish…

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Campanula lactiflora NCG 064 Campanula lactiflora
Milky Bellflower

A tall, stately campanula, pale blue/lilac or white. Makes a dynamic statement at the back of the border and is also lovely cut flower if you can bear to remove it from the garden! Masses of blooms on stems up to 2m high. Much in demand by visitors to the…

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Campanula persicifolia Ex. 'Alba' NCG 098 Campanula persicifolia Ex. 'Alba'
White bellflower

A typical cottage garden plant, this campanula, with its papery, nodding white bells on tall, straight stems above low-growing foliage, is perfect for the middle of the border and is particularly effective if planted en masse. A good cut flower. Since these are open-pollinated plants, some variation may occur in…

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Campanula persicifolia, Ex. blue NCG 384 Campanula persicifolia, Ex. blue
Peach-leaved bellflower

A typical cottage garden plant, this campanula, with its papery, nodding pale-blue bells on tall, straight stems above low-growing foliage, is perfect for the middle of the border and is particularly effective if planted en masse. A good cut flower. Since these are open-pollinated plants, some variation may occur in…

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Campanula portenschlagiana Syn. muralis NCG 669 Campanula portenschlagiana Syn. muralis
Dalmatian bellflower, Wall bellflower

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Campanula punctata 'Kent Belle' NCG 598 Campanula punctata 'Kent Belle'
Bellflower 'Kent Belle'

Nodding heads of deep-violet narrow, tubular flowers adorn this attractive campanula. Will probably not always come true from seed, but my experience with another campanula with similarly shaped flowers (Campanula takesimana) is that collected seeds are are likely to produce plants with blooms of a similar shape and habit, though…

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Campanula takesimana NCG 356 Campanula takesimana
Korean bellflower

This lovely campanula bears drooping, tubular bells an inch or more long, coloured soft pink fading to white at the tips, in mid-summer. The leaves, which form an attractive basal rosette, are rich-green, heart-shaped, slightly glossy and serrated.

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Campsis radicans NCG 677 Campsis radicans
Trumpet vine

Sold out, but I can usually source young plants direct from the garden to order, so please contact me if you are interested in purchasing.

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Capsicum annum, Ramiro NCG 626 Capsicum annum, Ramiro
Sweet Horn Pepper, Ramiro

Long fruits with a rich, sweet flavour. Fully ripe, red, fruits are sweeter than those that are still green. If it is necessary to harvest green peppers at the end of the season, they can be placed on a warm, sunny window sill to ripen.

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Capsicum annuum NCG 100 Capsicum annuum
Sweet Pepper, Bell Pepper

A blocky-shaped fruit with a mild, sweet flavour. Fully ripe, red, fruits are sweeter than those that are still green. If it is necessary to harvest green peppers at the end of the season, they can be placed on a warm, sunny window sill to ripen.

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Capsicum frutescens - Bird Eye NCG 101 Capsicum frutescens - Bird Eye
Bird Eye Chilli

A small, medium-hot chilli with a thin skin which dries easily, but for fresh chillies all year round, keep a a pot indoors by a warm, sunny window during the winter. Prune the plant in spring to encourage new, bushy growth. It is possible to keep chilli plants for a…

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Carex comans 'Bronze' NCG 216 Carex comans 'Bronze'
New Zealand hair sedge

This very attractive grass, 12 inches high and 12-18 inches in diameter, forms a soft tussock of very narrow, chestnut-red leaves in spring. These fade somewhat as the season progresses and in summer many delicate flower/seed spikes are produced. The soft, rounded 'cushion' of this grass was a magnet for…

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Catananche caerulea bicolor NCG 567 Catananche caerulea bicolor
White Cupid's Dart

This pretty plant produces a basal rosette of narrow, grey-green leaves, above which wiry stems rise in summer, topped with white flowers with violet-blue eyes. The papery seedheads are very attractive and are useful for dried flower arrangements.

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Cenolophium denudatum NCG 705 Cenolophium denudatum
Baltic parsley

Although somewhat similar to cow parsley (but bushier), both flowers and foliage of this attractive hardy perennial are more refined. A very useful filler plant for flower arrangers. There is a similar annual plant, Ammi majus, that is perhaps easier for direct sowing, but is rather coarser in…

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Centaurea  macrocephala NCG 013 Centaurea macrocephala
Giant Knapweed

Visitors to the garden often fall in love with this plant, which forms a large clump and has large spherical buds opening to clear yellow flowers surrounded by unusual, papery brown bracts. The mature seed heads are a natural 'barometer', opening and closing according to humidity.

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Centaurea montana NCG 014 Centaurea montana
Perennial cornflower, Mountain bluet

This wildflower has been a popular garden plant for generations. Rich blue with a reddish-purple centre, it makes a good cut flower for smaller arrangements and posies. Dead-head regularly to promote fresh blooms. The plant has a lax habit, so either cut long stems back by half to discourage legginess…

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Centranthus ruber NCG 092 Centranthus ruber
Valerian

A classic cottage garden plant with delicate sprays of white, pink or red flowers held above grey green foliage. Perfectly happy in poor, stony, chalky soil, but is will tolerate other more-or-less neutral soil types. Although a perennial, perhaps better treated as a biennial as older plants tend to become…

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Cephalaria gigantea NCG 353 Cephalaria gigantea
Giant scabious, Yellow scabious

This stunning perennial scabious is perfect for the back of the border as it can grow as high as 2.5m. Blooming during the summer, the strongly textured flowers are a delicate pale yellow.

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Cerastium tomentosum NCG 438 Cerastium tomentosum
Snow-in-Summer, White rock flower

This evergreen, mat-forming perennial has small, grey-green leaves and produces a veritable carpet of small white blooms in late spring through to early summer. A wonderful plant to grow at the front of borders or tumbling over walls. It requires very free-draining soil as it does not like its roots…

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Cerinthe major var. purpurascens NCG 094 Cerinthe major var. purpurascens
Cerinthe, Honeywort, Blue shrimp plant

Deep purple, almost indigo, clusters of bells dangle above attractive glaucous, grey-green foliage. This wildflower is much loved by bees and butterflies. It self-seeds happily (but not invasively) in the gravel patio area in my garden, where it looks charming.

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Chaenomeles  speciosa 'Geisha Girl' AGM NCG 086 Chaenomeles speciosa 'Geisha Girl' AGM
Ornamental Quince

A very attractive and useful hardy, semi-evergreen shrub with masses of soft peach flowers in Spring. Easy to grow and well worth trying. Flowers are nectar-rich so attractive to bees. Also makes a good hedging plant.

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Chamaemelum syn. Anthemis nobile syn. nobilis 'Flore Pleno' NCG 320 Chamaemelum syn. Anthemis nobile syn. nobilis 'Flore Pleno'
Double flowered Chamomile

Delightful in all respects, this highly scented double-flowered form of perennial chamomile has feathery leaves and inch-wide, creamy-white blooms. Best planted in containers or at the edge of borders, where, when brushed against, both leaves and flowers release their strong, sweet, apple-like fragrance. NOTE: Depending on season, plants are sometimes…

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Chasmanthium Syn. uniola latifolium NCG 235 Chasmanthium Syn. uniola latifolium
Northern Sea Oats, Spangle Grass

The photograph really does not do this delightful grass justice! Growing to a maximum of a metre or so (usually somewhat less), the erect stems resemble miniature bamboo in their growth habit. The seed heads are, however, quite different, being delicate, flat, diamond shapes - almost like spear heads -…

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Chelidonium majus NCG 952 Chelidonium majus
Greater celandine

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Chrysanthemum rubellum 'Mrs Jessie Cooper' NCG 423 Chrysanthemum rubellum 'Mrs Jessie Cooper'
Chrysanthemum 'Mrs Jessie Cooper'

Chrysanthemums have never been my favourite plants, but this one is an exception! A very hardy variety, this compact plant has dark-green, lobed foliage which contrasts well with the deep-pink, narrow-petalled flowers that appear from summer right through to late autumn. Chrysanthemums are good companion plants as they contain the…

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Chrysanthemum x hortorum 'Mei-kyo' NCG 774 Chrysanthemum x hortorum 'Mei-kyo'
Winteraster 'Mei-kyo'

A beautiful late-autumn flowering spray chrysanthemum, with masses of dusky pink, double flowers above dark green foliage.

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Cichorium intybus NCG 853 Cichorium intybus
Common chicory

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Cirsium japonicum 'Pink and Rose Beauty' NCG 665 Cirsium japonicum 'Pink and Rose Beauty'
Plumed thistles

This pretty thistle is a native of Japan. It produces small, fluffy, globe-like blooms in shades of pink above mid-green foliage from late summer to autumn.

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Clematis tangutica NCG 016 Clematis tangutica
Golden Clematis

This beautiful perennial climber scrambles happily over trellis or support on a wall and provides a profusion of bright yellow lantern-like flowers throughout the summer, followed by attractive seed heads that resemble silvery tassels. Provision of shade at the roots is advisable, particularly in very sunny positions. If space is…

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Clematis viticella 'Chatsworth' NCG 509 Clematis viticella 'Chatsworth'
Italian leather flower, Purple clematis, Virgin's bower 'Chatsworth'

A wild form of clematis originating from southern Europe, with nodding, pale-mauve flowers with four, or occasionally five, petals (or, more accurately, tepals), each having a darker stripe down the middle. A good choice for scrampling over walls or large shrubs in a spot offering some shade.

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Cleome hassleriana NCG 286 Cleome hassleriana
Spider flower, Skunk flower

A striking plant, with spiky, pink or mauve flowers from June to early Autumn on tall stems with palmate leaves. The whole plant has a musky odour that has been variously described as skunky or not unlike that of marijuana, though others think it more akin to citronella!

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Clivia miniata NCG 744 Clivia miniata
Bush lily, Natal lily

A dynamic flowering houseplant native to South Africa, Clivia miniata is a rewarding plant to grow. Equally attractive when in its dormant stage, with broad, arching, spear-shaped leaves, but coming into its own when the flowers, which last for weeks, put on a show! Highly recommended.

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Cobaea Scandens AGM NCG 166 Cobaea Scandens AGM
Cup and Saucer Vine

This climber, which must usually be treated as an annual in the UK when situated outside, but can be successfully grown as a perennial indoors if warmth and some humidity are provided, is the perfect choice for a sunny, sheltered wall, trellis or pergola. Once the young plants have acclimatised,…

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Cobaea scandens f. Alba AGM NCG 396 Cobaea scandens f. Alba AGM
White Cup and Saucer Vine

A white-flowered version of the more familiar purple/blue, this climber, which must usually be treated as an annual in the UK when situated outside, but can be successfully grown as a perennial indoors if warmth and some humidity are provided, is the perfect choice for a sunny, sheltered wall, trellis…

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Commelina dianthifolia NCG 575 Commelina dianthifolia
Bird-bill day flower, Widow's tears

One of my most exciting finds of 2016! This little-known plant is fully hardy when planted in well-drained soil, where over time it naturalises to produce drifts. One-inch diameter, striking gentian-blue flowers rise from attractive, rich-green foliage from mid-summer. The flowers fade by the afternoon, but are replaced daily by…

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Consolida ajacis NCG 017 Consolida ajacis
Larkspur, Annual Delphinium, Doubtful knight's spur

More dainty than the related delphinium, larkspur produces pink or deep blue blooms freely throughout the summer months, on tall stems with finely cut, feathery foliage. Quite variable in height. A good cut flower, if you can bear to remove it from the garden, where it always looks so beautiful!…

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Convallaria majalis NCG 835 Convallaria majalis
Lily-of-the-Valley

Description coming soon

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Corydalis elata  'Blue Summit' NCG 555 Corydalis elata 'Blue Summit'
Blue fumitory 'Blue Summit'

Much easier to grow than the related Corydalis flexuosa, this beautiful woodland plant produces spikes of rich, dark-blue flowers with a coconut-like scent above finely divided light-green foliage with tiny magenta markings at the base and tips of the leaflets. Delightful!

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Corydalis temulifolia syn. quantmeyerana 'Chocolate Stars' NCG 418 Corydalis temulifolia syn. quantmeyerana 'Chocolate Stars'
Corydalis 'Chocolate Stars'

A hard to find Corydalis with unique chocolate brown spring foliage which fades to green by summer. The leaf edge is nicely serrated and very pale lavender flowers are borne in early summer. If grown in shade with ample soil moisture, it will not go summer dormant. Grows 12-16in high…

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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Rose Bon Bon' NCG 816 Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Rose Bon Bon'

A lovely variety of cosmos, with mid-pink, fully double flowers. For best effect plants should be as close to each other as 9 inches or so and planted en masse. Soil should be reasonably fertile, but if it is too rich, tall, lanky plants may result. As with most cosmos…

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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Snow Puff' NCG 887 Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Snow Puff'

A wonderful addition to the cosmos family, this variety has pure white, fully double flowers. For best effect plants should be as close to each other as 9 inches or so and planted en masse. Soil should be reasonably fertile, but if it is too rich, tall, lanky plants may…

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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Mixed' NCG 322 Cosmos bipinnatus 'Mixed'
Cosmos 'Mixed'

A mixture of white, pinks and muted-red flowers - some striped - on stems a metre or more high, clothed in finely divided foliage. Although the recommendation is to plant 18in apart, for best effect plants can be as close to each other as 9 inches or so and planted…

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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Purity' NCG 815 Cosmos bipinnatus 'Purity'
Cosmos, ex. single white

Masses of pure white, singe blooms with yellow centres throughout the summer, on tall stems with finely divided, bright-green foliage. Drought tolerant. Some say it is unnecessary to thin direct sown plants. Soil that is too rich may result in tall, lanky plants. NOTE: Seeds, when offered, are collected from…

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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Xanthos' NCG 811 Cosmos bipinnatus 'Xanthos'
Cosmos 'Xanthos'

A beautiful dwarf cosmos studded with pale yellow blooms, fading to white in the centre. A lovely plant for the front of the border, where it will bloom all summer and into autumn.

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Cosmos bipinnatus Ex. 'Double Click Cranberries' NCG 395 Cosmos bipinnatus Ex. 'Double Click Cranberries'
Cosmos 'Double Click Cranberries'

A wonderful addition to the cosmos family, this variety has deep-red, fully double flowers. For best effect plants should be as close to each other as 9 inches or so and planted en masse. Soil should be reasonably fertile, but if it is too rich, tall, lanky plants may result.…

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Cosmos bipinnatus Ex. 'Fizzy Pink' NCG 519 Cosmos bipinnatus Ex. 'Fizzy Pink'
Cosmos Ex. 'Fizzy Pink'

A wonderful addition to the cosmos family, this long-flowering variety has stunning pink, semi-double flowers. For best effect plant en masse as close to each other as 9 inches or so apart. Soil should be reasonably fertile, but if it is too rich, tall, lanky plants may result. As with…

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Cosmos bipinnatus Ex. Semi-Double White NCG 019 Cosmos bipinnatus Ex. Semi-Double White
Cosmos, semi-double white

Masses of pure white, semi-double blooms with yellow centres (with perhaps the odd single) throughout the summer, on tall stems with finely divided foliage. Drought tolerant. Some say it is unnecessary to thin direct sown plants. Soil that is too rich may result in tall, lanky plants. I cannot guarantee…

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Cosmos sulphureus 'Bright Lights' NCG 178 Cosmos sulphureus 'Bright Lights'
Cosmos 'Bright Lights'

Flowers in shades from pale yellow through to deep orange, about 4cm across, borne on stems with attractive divided leaves. Pinch out young plants to encourage branching. May need some support.

Jumbo plug plants, when available, will be ready to plant out but may need some protection from slugs, etc.…

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Cotinus coggygria NCG 342 Cotinus coggygria
Smoke Bush

The plant from which these seeds were sourced has grey-green leaves with delicate, feathery flower spikes which turn from cream to a deep pink as the year progresses.

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Craspedia globosa 'Drumstick' NCG 301 Craspedia globosa 'Drumstick'
Billy balls, Billy buttons

Originating in Australia, where it is perennial, this quirky hardy annual has a long flowering period, producing bright-yellow, ping pong-shaped flower clusters (glomerules), about an inch in diameter, on strong, straight, unbranched stems rising from basal rosettes of leaves. Excellent for use in both fresh and dried flower arrangements.

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Crassula ovata NCG 942 Crassula ovata
Money tree, Jade plant

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Crocosmia paniculata x fucata NCG 363 Crocosmia paniculata x fucata
Crocosmia

I don't know where this variety of crocosmia came from... it seems to have appeared out of nowhere, but was probably given to me by my mother or one of her gardener friends. It has possibly been sitting there, sulking for years, but this year the hot bed has been…

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Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Burford Bronze' NCG 578 Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Burford Bronze'
Montbretia 'Burford Bronze'

Warm yellow flowers are set off by lovely bronze strap like foliage. Warm yellow flowers. Grows to 90cm in height.

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Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'George Davison' NCG 056 Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'George Davison'
Montbretia, Crocosmia 'George Davison'

A lovely, sunny plant with sprays of rich-yellow flowers which open sequentially and are borne on arching stems above long, strap-like foliage. Flowers are followed by attractive tapering seed heads.

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Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer' AGM NCG 061 Crocosmia x crocosmiiflora 'Lucifer' AGM
Montbretia, Crocosmia

A stunning plant with flame-red sprays of flowers which open sequentially and are borne on arching stems above long, strap-like foliage. Flowers are followed by attractive tapering seed heads.

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Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis 'Hearts of Gold' NCG 490 Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis 'Hearts of Gold'
Cantaloupe or Musk Melon 'Hearts of Gold'

An heirloom variety, dating back to 1895, which has stood the test of time and is very suitable for growing in the UK. The fruits are ribbed, dark-green with heavy white netting and the deep-orange flesh is very sweet and fragrant.

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Cucurbita pepo 'Yellow Golden' NCG 102 Cucurbita pepo 'Yellow Golden'
Courgette, Zuccini 'Yellow Golden'

The golden-yellow fruits of this variety are particularly sweet! Pick when young, but allow some to develop to full-sized 'marrows' at the end of the season... they will keep in a cool, airy place all winter and are delicious stuffed with a Mediterranean-style filling, the base ingredients being onions, sweet…

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Cyclamen hederifolium NCG 517 Cyclamen hederifolium
Hardy cyclamen, Ivy-leaved cyclamen

A delightful autumn-flowering woodland plant, with leaves shaped a little like ivy, though more tapered, strongly patterned with silver-green markings. The flowers are pink and sometimes delicately scented, usually appearing before the foliage. Looks wonderful naturalised under trees.

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Cynara cardunculus NCG 625 Cynara cardunculus
Cardoon

The cardoon, also called the artichoke thistle, is a member of the sunflower family. It is native to the western and central Mediterranean region. A robust plant, growing up to 2.4m/8 feet tall, it produces large, purplish-pink, thistle-like flower heads above divided, grey-green foliage. The immature flowers, called globe artichokes,…

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Cyperus esculentus NCG 807 Cyperus esculentus
Tiger nut, Chufa

Although commonly referred to as nuts, the edible parts of this variety of grass are actually tubers. They are therefore suitable for individuals with nut allergies (though please research if in doubt). Highly nutritious - in fact classified as a 'super food' and a natural source of pro-biotics - with…

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Dahlia 'Wine Eyed Jill' NCG 1018 Dahlia 'Wine Eyed Jill'
Dahlia 'Wine Eyed Jill'

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Dahlia Ex. 'Bishop of Auckland' NCG 297 Dahlia Ex. 'Bishop of Auckland'
Dahlia Ex. 'Bishop of Auckland'

The seeds or plants on offer are either from 'Bishop of Llandaff' or 'Bishop of Auckland'. Although they are not expected to breed true, all my own sowings have resulted in plants with black foliage and flowers that strongly resembe the parents. Although generally considered tender, dahlias will very often…

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Dahlia variabilis mixed NCG 604 Dahlia variabilis mixed
Dahlia, mixed

These seeds were collected from double varieties of dahlia in a lovely range of colours, from pale yellow through pinks and oranges to dark reds, all serving to brighten up the late summer and early autumn garden and also wonderful for flower arrangements.

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Datura metel 'Blackcurrant Swirl' NCG 696 Datura metel 'Blackcurrant Swirl'
Angel's trumpet 'Blackcurrant Swirl'

Although strictly speaking a perennial shrub, this dynamic plant is usually grown as an annual, but container-grown plants can be overwintered in a conservatory or heated greenhouse. HIGHLY POISONOUS!!!

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Datura stramonium NCG 234 Datura stramonium
Jimson Weed, Thorn Apple

Datura produces white, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers and light green foliage, but the most striking part of the plant is its large spiky seed pods. They make a very interesting addition to dried flower arrangements. Although originating from warmer countries, this plant has become widely naturalised in the UK. HIGHLY POISONOUS!!!…

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Delphinium requienii NCG 599 Delphinium requienii
Requin's larkspur

A beautiful plant which is seldom seen in the UK, Requin's larkspur produces spikes of soft, brownish-blue flowers, reminiscent of orchids, above attractive, shiny leaves (which, unlike those of other delphiniums, are said to be of no interest to slugs and snails). Usually grown as a biennial, but will flower…

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Dianthus barbatus Ex. nigrescens 'Sooty' NCG 432 Dianthus barbatus Ex. nigrescens 'Sooty'
Sweet William, black

These seeds were collected exclusively from this variety but it cannot be guaranteed that all will breed true, though they should produce a high proportion of dark-red to almost black blooms. Although strictly speaking a short-lived perennial, usually treated as a biennial.

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Dianthus chinensis 'Chianti Double' NCG 645 Dianthus chinensis 'Chianti Double'
Chinese pink

This pretty traditional cottage garden plant is long-flowering, producing masses of small, burgundy blooms with white edges. A good cut flower for posies.

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Dianthus gratianopolitanus NCG 172 Dianthus gratianopolitanus
Cheddar pink

With its low-growing mat of grey-green foliage studded and fragrant pink flowers with finely toothed petals, this is a perfect plant for an alpine bed or anywhere warm and tending to dryness. The foliage habit and colour can be a little variable, sometimes a little less or more grey-green and…

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Dicentra formosa oregona 'Pearl Drops' NCG 422 Dicentra formosa oregona 'Pearl Drops'
Western or Pacific bleeding heart

This wild form of dicentra is less well-known than the spectabilis species, but no less attractive. The familiar heart-shaped blooms are creamy-white, usually with pink tips, appearing in profusion in spring above very attractive, glaucous, finely divided foliage. A lovely plant to grow in shade or part shade. It tends…

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Didiscus caeruleus, Lacy Series NCG 452 Didiscus caeruleus, Lacy Series
Lace flower, mixed

A most attractive (to pollinating insects as well as humans!), long-flowering annual. The umbels of blooms in soft shades of pink, blue, mauve and white are sweetly scented and make an excellent cut flower.

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Dierama species mixed NCG 446 Dierama species mixed
Angel's Fishing Rod

Description coming later.

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Digitalis ferruginea gigantea 'Gelber Herold' NCG 620 Digitalis ferruginea gigantea 'Gelber Herold'
Rusty foxglove 'Gelber Herold'

A tall, dynamic variety of rusty foxglove that looks spectacular when grown en masse! Much recommended, but please note that although classified as a perennial, it is generally short-lived and shorter in stature in subsequent years if it does survive, so it is best to sow every year.

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Digitalis grandiflora 'Carillon' NCG 692 Digitalis grandiflora 'Carillon'
Dwarf yellow foxglove

This diminutive yellow-flowered foxglove is compact and sturdy. It is happiest in semi-shade but will tolerate both deeper shade and sunnier positions. Flowering for most of the summer, the blooms are a soft pale-yellow. Well-drained, humus-rich soils are recommended for best results.

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Digitalis grandiflora ambigua/macrantha AGM NCG 223 Digitalis grandiflora ambigua/macrantha AGM
Large yellow foxglove, Cream-coloured foxglove

This stunning plant is a perennial, but generally short-lived, so best treated as a biennial. Tall spikes of soft yellow, speckled flowers rise above a rosette of dark green leaves. It is lovely in a woodland setting, where the blooms light up shady corners, but will tolerate sun.

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Digitalis lutea NCG 180 Digitalis lutea
Small foxglove

A lovely plant for woodland areas. Small, tubular yellow blooms are borne on delicate spikes - a much more dainty plant in all respects than the common pink foxglove. Although it will tolerate both sun and dry soil, this plant is happiest in rich, moist soil and dappled shade. Digitalis…

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Digitalis mertonensis NCG 128 Digitalis mertonensis
Strawberry foxglove

This delightful cottage garden plant is a cross between the common digitalis purpurea and a yellow flowered variety, digitalis grandiflora. The result is warm pink, speckled flowers that are larger than the traditional foxglove. This is a short-lived perennial that should come true from seed if common foxgloves are not…

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Digitalis obscura NCG 455 Digitalis obscura
Willow-leaved foxglove, Dusky maid, Sunset foxglove

This rare and most striking, foxglove originates from the mountains of Spain and is also found in parts of Africa. Generally a little shorter than most other digitalis varieties, the flowers are exquisitely coloured in shades of russet, burnt-orange and red, complemented by evergreen, narrow-leaved foliage. In the right environment…

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Digitalis parviflora Jacq. NCG 362 Digitalis parviflora Jacq.
Chocolate Soldier, Small-flowered foxglove

A most unusual foxglove, and like most digitalis, usually treated as a biennial, although it can survive as a short-lived perennial. This variety produces flower spikes of densely-packed, chocolate-coloured, tubular flowers about 2cm in length, above basal rosettes of attractive, slightly glossy, dark-green foliage. It will happily self-seed in a…

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Digitalis purpurea NCG 447 Digitalis purpurea
Foxglove

This, the original, wild form of the traditional cottage garden biennial plant, will be familiar to all, with its tall spires of blooms in a variety of pink shades above rosettes of large, mid-green leaves. The flowers are much loved by pollinating insects, especially bumble bees.

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Digitalis purpurea 'Apricot' NCG 346 Digitalis purpurea 'Apricot'
Apricot foxglove

The traditional cottage garden foxglove comes in many colours and this, with its warm, pale pink spikes, is one of my favourites! Note: Externally sourced seeds.

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Digitalis purpurea 'Pam's Choice' NCG 664 Digitalis purpurea 'Pam's Choice'
Foxglove 'Pam's Choice'

A two-toned foxglove, white with strongly contrasting, dark-maroon speckling in the throat.

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Digitalis purpurea Ex. f. albiflora NCG 248 Digitalis purpurea Ex. f. albiflora
White Foxglove

An attractive white form of the familiar cottage garden foxglove. Seed is collected only from pure white plants but may not all come true - sowing more than you need and discarding young plants with red tinges at the base of leaves should help you obtain white plants. When plants…

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Digitalis purpurea subsp. heywoodii 'Silver Cub' NCG 523 Digitalis purpurea subsp. heywoodii 'Silver Cub'
Foxglove 'Silver Cub'

The beautiful white flower spikes of this variety are enhanced by the foliage, which is covered in fine white hairs, giving a silvery appearance and silky to the touch. Can be grown as an annual, flowering in its first year if sown in January or February.

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Eccremocarpus syn. Calampelis scaber NCG 673 Eccremocarpus syn. Calampelis scaber
Chilean Glory Flower

A lovely climber with attractive, divided, mid-green foliage and masses of small, tubular blooms in shades from deep-red to orange from late spring and well into autumn. If grown in a sheltered position it will sometimes survive a mild winter in the UK, but is more usually grown as a…

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Echinacea purpurea NCG 021 Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower

Much-loved by butterflies and other pollinating insects, this dynamic plant produces clumps of dark-green, somewhat hairy leaves from which large, daisies with rather lax, purple petals and brown, conical central discs grow, on tall, straight stems. Echinacea prefers full sun, but will tolerate part-shade. Echinacea is said to have immune-system…

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Echinacea purpurea 'White Swan' NCG 442 Echinacea purpurea 'White Swan'
White coneflower

Much-loved by butterflies and other pollinating insects, the white version of this dynamic plant produces clumps of dark-green, rather hairy leaves from which large, daisies with rather lax, white petals and brown, conical central discs grow, on tall, straight stems. Echinacea prefers full sun, but will tolerate part-shade. Echinacea is…

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Echinops exaltatus NCG 229 Echinops exaltatus
Giant globe thistle

The largest echinops, growing to at least 2m tall - and usually more, looks magnificent at the back of the bed or as a specimen plant. It is advisable to remove seed heads before they disintegrate, as the thick, long roots can make unwanted, self-seeded, plants difficult to remove. But…

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Echinops ritro NCG 603 Echinops ritro
Blue hedgehog, Globe thistle

A very dependable hardy perennial that is much loved by butterflies and other pollinating insects, Echinops ritro is a lovely addition to the garden for late-summer colour. The spiky, globular flower heads look silvery at first, turning to a dynamic blue-violet as they open. If cut early, they can be…

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Echium vulgare NCG 683 Echium vulgare
Viper's bugloss

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Elymus hystrix NCG 844 Elymus hystrix
European or Spreading Bottlebrush grass

Syn, Hystrix patula

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Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' NCG 417 Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum'
Epimedium, Horny Goat Weed, Barrenwort

Delicate sprays of soft-yellow flowers appear on slender, straight, stems from early Spring, followed by somewhat heart-shaped leaves which quickly develop beautiful bronze markings and are retained throughout the winter. This is a rather shorter epimedium than most and is a perfect choice for the front of a dry border…

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Epimedium x warleyense 'Orange Queen' NCG 250 Epimedium x warleyense 'Orange Queen'
Epimedium, Horny Goat Weed, Barrenwort

It's surprising that epimediums are not better known, because they are such attractive and useful plants, providing interest throughout the year to shady and woodland areas. Delicate sprays of soft-orange flowers appear on slender, straight, stems from early Spring, followed by somewhat heart-shaped leaves which quickly develop beautiful bronze markings…

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Eranthis hyemalis NCG 912 Eranthis hyemalis
Winter Aconite, Winter Hellebore, Winter Wolf's Bane

Description coming soon.

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Erigeron karvinskianus NCG 563 Erigeron karvinskianus
Mexican fleabane

A very pretty plant for front of border, Erigeron produces masses of dainty, daisy-like pink and white flowers about 2cm in diameter in late spring and throughout the summer, above dark-green foliage.

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Eriolarynx australis Syn. Iochroma australe NCG 862 Eriolarynx australis Syn. Iochroma australe
Mini angel's trumpet

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Eryngium agavifolium NCG 471 Eryngium agavifolium
Agave-leaved sea holly

This most unusual and exotic looking plant looks as though it should need a heated conservatory to survive, but it is in fact quite hardy. A straight stem topped with clusters of spiky, greenish-white flower heads grows from a pineapple-like rosette of fleshy, toothed leaves. The picture really does not…

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Eryngium bourgatii NCG 739 Eryngium bourgatii
Mediterranean sea holly

Description coming soon.

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Eryngium planum NCG 022 Eryngium planum
Sea Holly

The steely blue flowers of this attractive plant, which appear on wiry stems with spiny leaves from July, are much loved by bees, hoverflies and butterflies.

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Eschscholzia californica NCG 075 Eschscholzia californica
California Poppy, Golden Cup, Cup of Gold

This drought-tolerant plant, with its finely divided grey-green foliage and very bright, shiny orange petals, looks wonderful near the edge of the border. Cut quite hard back after the first flush of flowers and it will quickly regenerate to provide further colour on well into autumn without becoming too straggly.…

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Eschscholzia californica 'Apple Blossom' NCG 820 Eschscholzia californica 'Apple Blossom'
California poppy 'Apple Blossom'

Description coming soon.

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Eschscholzia californica Ex. 'White Linen' NCG 475 Eschscholzia californica Ex. 'White Linen'
Californian Poppy 'White Linen'

This drought-tolerant plant, with its finely divided grey-green foliage and shiny creamy petals, looks wonderful near the edge of the border. Cut quite hard back after the first flush of flowers and it will quickly regenerate and flower well into autumn without becoming too straggly. They will happily grow in…

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Eucomis bicolor NCG 139 Eucomis bicolor
Pineapple lily

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Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'n' Gold' NCG 407 Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald 'n' Gold'
Winter creeper 'Emerald 'n' Gold'

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Euphorbia amygdaloides 'Purpurea' NCG 311 Euphorbia amygdaloides 'Purpurea'
Purple Wood Spurge

This low-growing spurge produces rich purple foliage in spring, followed by greenish-yellow flowers on slender, wiry stems.

NOTE: Later in the year, plants may be shipped trimmed back and/or supplied bare-rooted.

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Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii NCG 906 Euphorbia characias subsp. wulfenii
Mediterranean spurge

Young plants often available, sourced direct from the garden. Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing.

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Euphorbia lathyris NCG 758 Euphorbia lathyris
Caper Spurge, Mole plant

Said to deter moles. More soon...

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Euphorbia mellifera NCG 212 Euphorbia mellifera
Canary spurge

A bold architectural plant, making a large dome of bright green leaves with central white veins. The small flowers, which appear in spring, have a reddish-orange tinge and are followed by interesting seed heads with pretty, textured pods.

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Exochorda x macrantha 'The Bride' NCG 059 Exochorda x macrantha 'The Bride'
Pearl Bush

Arching sprays of small, fragrant, white flowers appear along the length of stems in late spring/early summer, followed by interesting star-shaped seed pods which tend to stay on the plant throughout the winter. I was delighted to find that this is a very easy plant to grow from seed.

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Feioja Syn. Acca sellowiana NCG 709 Feioja Syn. Acca sellowiana
Pineapple guava

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Filipendula ulmaria 'Aurea' NCG 772 Filipendula ulmaria 'Aurea'
Golden meadowsweet, Golden mead wort

Description coming soon.

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Foeniculum vulgare NCG 058 Foeniculum vulgare
Common fennel (herb)

An attractive culinary herb, fennel is a large plant with feathery leaves (these seeds will probably produce a mixture of green and bronze-leaved varieties) that looks well in ornamental beds. The flat umbels of small flowers are followed by aromatic seeds with a liquorice/aniseed flavour, Both leaves and seeds are…

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Foeniculum vulgare 'Purpureum' NCG 592 Foeniculum vulgare 'Purpureum'
Bronze-leaved fennel

The bronze-leaved variety of this attractive culinary herb. Fennel is a large plant with feathery leaves that looks well in ornamental beds. The flat umbels of small flowers are followed by aromatic seeds with a liquorice/aniseed flavour, Both leaves and seeds are traditionally used in fish recipes. The seeds also…

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Fragaria vesca NCG 553 Fragaria vesca
Wild strawberry (single form)

Description coming soon.

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Fragaria vesca 'Flore Pleno' NCG 554 Fragaria vesca 'Flore Pleno'
Wild strawberry 'Flore Pleno' (Double form)

Description coming soon.

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Freesia (Lapeirousia/Anomatheca) laxa NCG 135 Freesia (Lapeirousia/Anomatheca) laxa
False freesia, Painted Petals

Originating from South Africa, this diminutive relative of the iris is an unusual and attractive addition at the front of borders. It thrives in poor, dry soil but will tolerate most situations that are not too moist. Spikes of bright pink blooms, about an inch across, with dark central blotches,…

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Fritillaria imperialis 'Lutea' NCG 310 Fritillaria imperialis 'Lutea'
Yellow Crown Imperial

This striking and imposing plant produces a bright yellow crown of bell-like flowers in spring, above which is a top-knot of small leaves. The stems are thick, straight and clothed in bright green spear-shaped leaves. The plant has a foxy odour which is said to ward off vermin. Our fig…

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Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' AGM NCG 249 Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima' AGM
Crown Imperial

This majestic and very attractive plant produces a cluster of deep, brick-orange, down-pointing, bell-like flowers, above which is a top-knot of small leaves. The stems are thick, straight and clothed in bright green spear-shaped leaves. The plant has a foxy odour which is said to ward off vermin. Our fig…

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Fritillaria meleagris NCG 428 Fritillaria meleagris
Snakeshead fritillary

Description coming soon

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Fuchsia fulgens NCG 903 Fuchsia fulgens
Brilliant fuchsia

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Fuchsia triphylla 'Panique' NCG 731 Fuchsia triphylla 'Panique'

A very unusual species Fuchsia, with masses of tiny pink flowers in summer and throughout the autumn. Has a rather lax habit, so best grown in a container where it can spill over the sides - or it can be supported with a light frame. Parentage: (Panache x F. splendens…

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Fumaria officinalis NCG 559 Fumaria officinalis
Common fumitory

This delicate wildflower bears spikes of small, pink, tubular flowers above bright green divided foliage. Will happily self-seed.

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Galanthus nivalis NCG 533 Galanthus nivalis
Common snowdrop

Snowdrops, with their delicately green-tipped white flowers, flower in late winter/early spring and look beautiful naturalised in drifts under trees, but will be happy in most other locations, including containers. Bulbs offered will be sourced to order from my various patches of naturalised snowdrops and delivered potted, so that there…

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Galatella syn. Aster sedifolius AGM NCG 232 Galatella syn. Aster sedifolius AGM
Sedum-leaved galatella

This dainty little aster does best in part shade, but will tolerate a sunny position. The pale lavender flowers appear in abundance on wiry stems with small, narrow leaves. The plant is rather lax in habit, so if nearby plants fail to support it, staking is recommended. Unlike many asters,…

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Galium odoratum NCG 737 Galium odoratum
Sweet woodruff, Sweet-scented bedstraw

A useful low-growing ground cover plant for shady areas. Tiny white flowers above bright-green divided foliage. Forms a dense mat of fine roots, so also useful for stabilising light soils on slopes.Can be invasive, so site carefully.

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Gazania rigens NCG 050 Gazania rigens
Gazania, Treasure Flower

A bright, cheerful and long-flowering addition to planters and borders. Preferring full sun, gazanias are drought tolerant.

NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Geranium clarkei 'Kashmir White' NCG 256 Geranium clarkei 'Kashmir White'

Large, delicate white flowers with delicate pink veining appear in spring and sporadically into summer, on slender stems above intricately divided leaves. Although not as vigorous as most hardy geraniums, taking longer to make a sizeable clump than others, its sheer beauty well and truly makes up for this shortcoming.…

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Geranium macrorrhizum 'White-Ness' NCG 582 Geranium macrorrhizum 'White-Ness'
Bigroot cranesbill

This lovely evergreen ground cover plant for shade or part shade forms mounds of attractive foliage and bears papery white flowers with yellow stamens from spring and right through to the first frosts. If plants are not listed, I can split to order, so please let me know if you'd…

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Geranium oxonianum f. thurstonianum NCG 258 Geranium oxonianum f. thurstonianum
Thurston's crane's bill

A very unusual geranium, with extremely narrow, star-shaped, deep pink flowers about an inch across and lobed, mid-green foliage.There may be some variation in plants produced from seed (when available), as there are other geraniums in the garden, but in my experience they tend to breed true.

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Geranium phaeum 'Mourning Widow' NCG 783 Geranium phaeum 'Mourning Widow'
Dusky cranesbill

Although a British native, Geranium phaeum is perhaps more commonly seen as a cultivated garden plant, particularly in colours singled out as particularly attractive such as this one. Flowering in spring, the blooms are a rich, dark, reddish-purple. The dark-green lobed foliage has splodges of maroon. It is a very…

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Geranium phaeum, various NCG 507 Geranium phaeum, various
Dusky cranesbill

Although a British native, Geranium phaeum is perhaps more commonly seen as a cultivated garden plant, particularly in colours singled out as particularly attractive. These appear in Spring and range from deepest-purple to near-white. The lobed or divided foliage varies in colour too, from mid to dark green, often with…

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Geranium pratense 'Plenum Violaceum' AGM NCG 454 Geranium pratense 'Plenum Violaceum' AGM
Meadow cranesbill 'Plenum Violaceum'

This stately, blue/purple double geranium with deeply cut leaves flowers profusely during the summer months. A real beauty and much-commented upon when visitors see it in full bloom in the garden.

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Geranium pratense 'Striatum' ('Splish Splash') NCG 675 Geranium pratense 'Striatum' ('Splish Splash')
Meadow cranesbill 'Striatum' ('Splish Splash')

As the name suggests, the petals of this geranium have splishes and splashes of blue and white. Please note that although the seeds offered have been collected only from such plants, other G. pratense are grown in the garden, so there is the possibility of some cross-fertilisation.

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Geranium pratense 'Summer Skies' NCG 576 Geranium pratense 'Summer Skies'

Description coming soon.

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Geranium pratense Blue, white-veined NCG 382 Geranium pratense Blue, white-veined
Cranesbill, Blue, white-veined

I have been unable to positively identify this delightful blue geranium, which is unusual in that it has pronounced white veins rather than the more usual blue. It bears a passing resemblance to (and may be the result of a cross with) 'Mrs Kendall Clark', but the veining is simpler…

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Geranium pratense Ex. 'Mrs Kendall Clark' AGM NCG 228 Geranium pratense Ex. 'Mrs Kendall Clark' AGM
Meadow cranesbill 'Mrs Kendall Clark'

This is an exquisite geranium! The strong, upright stems bear sky blue blooms run through with delicate white veins (most blue geraniums have dark veins). Happy in full sun or part shade and has a long flowering period. A must! Please note that since there are other geraniums in the…

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Geranium pratense f. albiflorum NCG 068 Geranium pratense f. albiflorum
Meadow cranesbill

This delightful geranium, which has a long flowering period, appeared from nowhere! A tall variety with strong, upright stems bearing pure white blooms about 1.25in/3cm across with green veining. Happy in full sun or part shade. Since there are other geraniums growing in the garden, it is possible (although in…

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Geranium pratense, blue NCG 411 Geranium pratense, blue
Meadow cranesbill, tall, blue

This lovely tall, deep-blue geranium is happy in full sun or part shade. It has strong, upright stems and is self-supporting in all but the most exposed sites. Please note that since there are other geraniums in the garden there may have been some cross-pollination, so I cannot guarantee that…

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Geranium  pyrenaicum 'Bill Wallis' NCG 221 Geranium pyrenaicum 'Bill Wallis'
Mountain Cranesbill 'Bill Wallis'

With its abundance of small, rich purple flowers from early spring and right through until autumn, small, lobed leaves and reddish stems, this is a delightful geranium and, given what I'm about to tell you, surprisingly rare. I am going to be brutally honest with you; if you choose to…

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Geranium renardii 'Phillipe Vapelle' NCG 463 Geranium renardii 'Phillipe Vapelle'
Renard geranium 'Tschelda'

A delightful geranium, chiefly due to its rounded, velvety, deeply textured leaves. The standard variety has pinkish-white flowers with purple-red veining, but these are a soft mauve, also with strong veining, and I believe them to be a variety named 'Tschelda'. Loved by pollinating insects and much recommended to humans!

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Geranium sanguineum 'Elke' NCG 274 Geranium sanguineum 'Elke'
Bloody cranesbill 'Elke'

For such a small plant (generally considered to be an alpine variety), this exquisite geranium packs a punch! Masses of rich pink, round-lobed petals deeply veined in carmine and having a white edge adorn the plant during May and June, with flowering continuing more sparcely right into autumn, when the…

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Geranium sanguineum Album AGM NCG 255 Geranium sanguineum Album AGM
Bloody cranesbill 'Album'

About a foot high, this is very attractive front-of-border choice, with a succession of pure white flowers and inch or more across above divided mid-green foliage. Blooms profusely in late spring/early summer, but continues to flower more sporadically for months more. It is very happy in dry and exposed areas,…

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Geranium sanguineum, magenta NCG 469 Geranium sanguineum, magenta
Bloody cranesbill

A very pretty low-growing hardy geranium. Bright magenta-pink flowers with a white eye and darker veining appear above finely divided foliage which has a tendency to trail. Although the plant is happy in full sun, it is useful for adding a touch of colour to areas in part-shade.

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Geranium versicolor NCG 245 Geranium versicolor
Pencilled geranium

This delightful geranium is semi-evergreen, but will form a fresh rosette of lobed leaves in Spring, followed by small, white flowers, intricately veined in deep magenta-pink. It will continue to flower, though less abundantly, throughout the summer and into autumn. Happy in full sun or part shade. Since there are…

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Geranium x oxonianum 'Julie Brennan' NCG 405 Geranium x oxonianum 'Julie Brennan'
Cranesbill 'Julie Brennan'

An extremely pretty form of geranium oxonianum - I am almost certain the variety is as named. The large flowers are mid-pink, slightly toothed at the margins and with very striking deep-purple veining. The leaves are a rich, bright green, often with small, chocolate-coloured spots at their base. An unfussy…

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Geum coccineum 'Borisii' NCG 491 Geum coccineum 'Borisii'
Boris Avens, Boris geum

Dwarf variety, producing a neat mound of hairy, rounded leaves, above which rise stems topped with bright orange-red flowers from late spring and throughout the summer. Lovely at the front of borders and also makes a good container plant.

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Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus NCG 954 Gladiolus communis subsp. byzantinus
Byzantine gladiolus

A delightful species gladiolus with vibrant magenta blooms in late spring. The foliage can be somewhat lax, so some light support is recommended (I use string around a ring of short canes). Hardy in most areas - if in doubt, mulch!

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Gladiolus murielae NCG 416 Gladiolus murielae
Abyssinian gladiolus, Sword lily, Peacock lily

So much daintier than most other gladiolus, and with a deliciously spicy scent too! The flowers are funnel-shaped, white with a purple blotch at their centre, rising above light-green, sword-shaped leaves. Highly recommended. Synonyms are Acidanthera bicolor, Gladiolus callianthus and (less commonly), Ixia quartiniana and Sphaerospora gigantea.

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Gladiolus x hortulanus, mixed NCG 530 Gladiolus x hortulanus, mixed
Gladioli, mixed

The seeds offered are from a variety of gladiolus, but all were special... some multi-coloured, as ilustrated, and some plain, sometimes with a white streak, in delicious colours ranging from clear lilac through to deepest maroon - almost black. The flowers will have cross-pollinated, so seed will not come true…

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Glaucium flavum NCG 775 Glaucium flavum
Yellow horned poppy

Description coming soon.

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Gypsophila cerastoides 'Pixie Splash' NCG 206 Gypsophila cerastoides 'Pixie Splash'
Mouse Ear Gypsophila 'Pixie Splash'

A diminutive, mat-forming, alpine gypsophila, standing only about 2-3in high. Mounds of tiny, slightly hairy, mid-green leaves studded with many small, pink-veined flowers from late spring to early summer. An unusual and attractive semi-evergreen plant for rockeries, containers and the front of borders. It is happiest in gritty soil that…

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Gypsophila elegans Mixed NCG 480 Gypsophila elegans Mixed
Annual Baby's Breath

A favourite with flower arrangers, but loved by pollinating insects too, with masses of tiny flowers in shades of pink and white on delicate, ferny foliage. Grow en masse for best effect.

NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Hakonechloa  macra 'Alboaurea' AGM NCG 225 Hakonechloa macra 'Alboaurea' AGM
Golden Hakonechloa, Golden Japanese forest grass

A stunning, deciduous grass that does very well in both sun and light shade. Produces lush clumps of arching, cream, yellow and green, narrowly-striped foliage that catches the light in a breeze. Flower racemes on slender stalks appear in summer, followed by delicate seeds heads. I have not found it…

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Helenium autumnale Ex. Rubinzwerg NCG 063 Helenium autumnale Ex. Rubinzwerg
Helen's Flower, Sneezewort

Although this helenium has daisy-like, mahogany red flowers with a brown cone, these seeds will be variable - but whatever comes up should be attractive in the hot bed and you may even discover a gem!

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Helenium puberulum 'Autumn Lollipop' NCG 467 Helenium puberulum 'Autumn Lollipop'
Sneezewort 'Autumn Lollipop'

This most unusual plant has spherical, bronze yellow heads with ruffles of yellow petals beneath, like little petticoats, on strong, straight stems with rich green foliage. It makes a unique cut flower.

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Helenium x cultorum Ex. Rauchtopas NCG 218 Helenium x cultorum Ex. Rauchtopas
Sneezewort

This stately helenium flowers profusely, with masses of daisy-like, yellow florets with orange-red reverses, surrounding a prominent brown cone. Although, like all heleniums, the seed is unlikely to come true, it should produce some attractive plants, so worth giving a try. Although listed as requiring full sun, mine is in…

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Helianthemum nummularium NCG 515 Helianthemum nummularium
Common rock-rose

Loved by bees and butterflies, this diminutive shrub has tiny, narrow, dark-green leaves which are topped with masses of small, bright yellow flowers in summer.

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Helianthus annuus Ex. 'Valentine' NCG 684 Helianthus annuus Ex. 'Valentine'
Branching sunflower Ex. 'Valentine'

This branching sunflower grows about 2m/6ft tall, with masses of blooms about 4-5 inches across. There may be some variation in colour from these open-sourced seeds, but they were collected from plants with soft, lemon-yellow blooms with almost black centres, as illustrated.

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Helianthus annuus, Giant NCG 025 Helianthus annuus, Giant
Sunflower, Giant

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Helianthus debilis 'Vanilla Ice' NCG 813 Helianthus debilis 'Vanilla Ice'
Sunflower 'Vanilla Ice'

A freely branching sunflower growing to about 2m/6ft tall, with masses of blooms about 3 inches across. There may be some variation in colour from these open-sourced seeds, but they were collected from plants with soft, lemon-yellow, slightly spidery-petalled blooms with almost black centres, as illustrated.

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Helianthus x laetiflorus 'Lemon Queen' AGM NCG 093 Helianthus x laetiflorus 'Lemon Queen' AGM
Perennial Sunflower 'Lemon Queen'

Light yellow, daisy-like flowers, set against rich, dark-green foliage on tall, straight stems, appear in abundance on this beautiful hardy perennial plant for many months. A wonderful addition at the back of the bed and great for flower arrangements.The full scientific name given is a bit of a guess -…

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Helichrysum bracteatum monstrosum Double Mixed NCG 137 Helichrysum bracteatum monstrosum Double Mixed
Everlasting Daisy, Straw flower

The papery flowers of this quirky plant, which grows on tall, straight stems about 3 feet high, are perfect for drying. Butterflies love them! Very easy to grow, and a good introduction to gardening for children.

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Helleborus foetidus NCG 309 Helleborus foetidus
Stinking Hellebore

The flowers of this interesting, shade-loving plant are very soft, pale green, sometimes with a red margin and are leathery in texture. It is a haven for hibernating ladybirds, which can be found nestling in and around the flowers all winter.

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Helleborus x hybridus NCG 273 Helleborus x hybridus
Lenten rose

There are many hellebores growing in the garden, in a variety of colours, from dark red (sometimes double) to pink, white and cream, some with intricate specking or streaking. Although seeds listed (when available) are saved and offered separately from different coloured plants, it cannot be guaranteed that they will…

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Hemerocallis 'Bonanza' NCG 410 Hemerocallis 'Bonanza'
Daylily 'Bonanza'

As its common name suggests, the large, trumpet-shaped blooms of this sunny plant last only a day, but during the flowering season they appear in abundance. I believe that this variety, which is deep-yellow with rich purple-brown blotches at the centre, is as named, but it was (one of the…

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Hemerocallis 'Ruffled Apricot' NCG 449 Hemerocallis 'Ruffled Apricot'
Daylily 'Ruffled Apricot'

The large, trumpet-shaped blooms of this sunny plant last only a day, but during the flowering season they appear in abundance. This variety is stunning, with deep-apricot, ruffled petals with a soft lighter streak running down the centre of each. All daylilies come from hybrid stock and will not come…

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Hemerocallis 'Sammy Russell' NCG 076 Hemerocallis 'Sammy Russell'
Daylily 'Sammy Russell'

As its common name suggests, the large, trumpet-shaped blooms of this stunning plant last only a day, but during the flowering season they appear in abundance. I believe that this variety, which is deepest red with a yellow throat, is as named, but it was (one of the few decent…

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Hesperantha (syn. Schizostylis) coccinea 'Major' AGM NCG 213 Hesperantha (syn. Schizostylis) coccinea 'Major' AGM
Crimson flag lily 'Major', River lily

This lovely plant flowers for many months - even through the first frosts! Rich red, six-petalled, bowl-shaped blooms appear on straight stems above light-green, sword-shaped foliage from summer onwards. Although they do well in my relatively light soil, Hesperantha are probably happiest in moist, heavy soil as long as it…

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Hesperis matronalis NCG 448 Hesperis matronalis
Sweet rocket, Dame's violet

This sweet-scented, short-lived perennial attracts bees and other pollinating insects and is therefore perfect for naturalising in a wildlife-friendly garden. The loose heads of small flowers range in colour from almost white, through pale lilac to mauve. A perfect plant for the informal cottage garden. Also a good cut flower.

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Heuchera micrantha 'Bressingham Hybrids' NCG 348 Heuchera micrantha 'Bressingham Hybrids'
Coral bells

Sprays of coral-red, bell-shaped flowers appear in late spring on wiry stems above plump mounds of evergreen foliage. An excellent cut flower and very attractive to bees and other pollinators. Good ground cover.

NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Hibiscus trionum NCG 054 Hibiscus trionum
Flower-of-an-Hour, Venice Mallow, Bladder hibiscus, Bladder ketmia

This delightful plant, which is usually treated as an annual in the UK, produces creamy flowers with dark burgundy centres on stems clothed with dark green, lobed leaves. Each flower only lasts a day but in the right conditions it will bloom profusely, followed by very attractive seed pods, throughout…

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Hieracium maculatum Syn spilophaeum 'Leopard' NCG 577 Hieracium maculatum Syn spilophaeum 'Leopard'
Spotted hawkweed

An unusual and decorative addition to the front of the border, this variegated form of hawkweed (usually considered a weed!) produces a low rosette of intricately blotched, dark red-brown and blue-green leaves, above which nod small, yellow daisy-like flowers on tall, wiry stems. It is for the foliage that this…

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Hosta syn. funkia x hybrida NCG 472 Hosta syn. funkia x hybrida
Hosta, mixed

The seeds offered were mostly from the variety illustrated, but from a couple of others too. In any case, they are very unlikely to come true, but it could be fun to see that they produce and you may even discover some unique variations of this attractive shade-loving plant!

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Houttuynia cordata NCG 321 Houttuynia cordata
Heart-leaved houttuynia, Fish mint

Description coming soon

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Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' NCG 767 Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon'
Heart-leaved houttuynia 'Chameleon'

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Humulus lupulus NCG 646 Humulus lupulus
Common hop

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Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' NCG 251 Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle'
Hydrangea 'Annabelle', Smooth hydrangea, Wild hydrangea, Sevenbark

I've never known anyone unfamiliar with this delightful plant not to request it when they see it in bloom in the garden! The domed flower heads are composed of masses of small blooms, lime green at first, turning creamy-white (and almost spherical) when in full bloom and a lovely parchment…

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Hylotelephium Syn. Sedum spectabile (Brilliant Group) 'Autumn Joy' NCG 231 Hylotelephium Syn. Sedum spectabile (Brilliant Group) 'Autumn Joy'
Ice Plant, Brilliant stonecrop, Butterfly stonecrop, Rabbit's cabbage, Showy stonecrop 'Autumn Joy'

This drought-tolerat plant produces dense heads of deep-pink flowers in late-summer/early autumn, above sturdy stems clothed in grey-green, fleshy leaves. The weight of the flower heads tends to cause the stems to bend and sprawl, so some support is recommended earlier in the season to prevent this. Attractive to pollinating…

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Hylotelephium Syn. Sedum telephium subsp. ruprechtii 'Hab Grey' NCG 412 Hylotelephium Syn. Sedum telephium subsp. ruprechtii 'Hab Grey'
Ruprecht's orpine, Ice Plant 'Hab Grey'

This unusual and most attractive sedum ariety forms clumps of grey-green, fleshy leaves and the flowers are a mixture of cream and pink. It is much loved by bees and other beneficial insects.

NOTE: Depending on season, plants, when available, may be trimmed back and/or barerooted for shipping.

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Hyoscyamus niger NCG 026 Hyoscyamus niger
Black Henbane, Stinking Nightshade

Black henbane produces soft, downy leaves and strange, but beautiful, pale creamy-yellow flowers intricately veined in purple. The seed pods are also rather attractive; they have a little round lid which falls off when the pods are ripe, releasing the seeds. All parts of the plant are toxic.

The whole plant…

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Hypericum olympicum AGM NCG 564 Hypericum olympicum AGM
Mount Olympus St. John's Wort

A small and very dainty hypericum, well suited to front of border. The flowers, which appear in profusion from early summer above masses of small, grey-green leaves, are a clear yellow, with long, attractive stamens.

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Iberis umbellata NCG 678 Iberis umbellata
Candytuft

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Indigofera heterantha Syn. gerardiana NCG 073 Indigofera heterantha Syn. gerardiana
Himalayan indigo

An attractive, fast-growing shrub which is usually hardy and grows to a height of 1-2m. The smooth, slender branches produce small, light green, pinnate leaves, followed by spikes of pink pea-like flowers.

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Inula Hookeri NCG 155 Inula Hookeri
Hooker's inula, Hooker's fleabane

This beautiful plant deserves to be better known. The soft, downy stems bear masses of 2 inch diameter bright-yellow daisy-like flowers from late summer to autumn, which go on to develop equally attractive, cream-coloured, fluffy seed heads. The flowers are much loved by butterflies and bees, and the seeds by…

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Ipomoea 'Venice Pink' NCG 199 Ipomoea 'Venice Pink'
Striped Morning Glory 'Venice Pink'

An abundance of the familiar Morning Glory flowers, but with bold stripes in deep pink and white, although it is possible that not all seeds will come true. Some of the seeds may be cream or light tan in colour; this is perfectly normal and will not result in different…

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Ipomoea Ex. 'Crimson Rambler' NCG 197 Ipomoea Ex. 'Crimson Rambler'
Morning Glory 'Crimson Rambler'

An abundance of the familiar Morning Glory flowers, but in a vibrant crimson colour with a white eye, although it is possible that not all seeds will come true. Attracts butterflies and other pollinating insects.

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Ipomoea purpurea Ex. 'Grandpa Otts' NCG 635 Ipomoea purpurea Ex. 'Grandpa Otts'
Morning glory 'Grandpa Otts'

An abundance of the familiar Morning Glory flowers, but in an intense deep-violet colour that will hit you between the eyes! Although it is possible that not all seeds will come true, I would expect most to do so. Attracts butterflies and other pollinating insects.

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Ipomoea quamoclit 'Red Feather' NCG 200 Ipomoea quamoclit 'Red Feather'
Cypress vine

A delightful and unusual climber for a sunny spot, with finely cut foliage and masses of bright-red, star-shaped flowers.

NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Ipomoea tricolor syn. rubro-caerulea 'Heavenly Blue' NCG 198 Ipomoea tricolor syn. rubro-caerulea 'Heavenly Blue'
Morning Glory

Clear sky-blue trumpets festoon this popular, long-flowering annual climber. Happily scrambles up walls and fences and through trellis, shrubby plants and trees. Highly recommended!

NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Ipomoea syn. Mina lobata Syn. versicolor 'Exotic Love' NCG 027 Ipomoea syn. Mina lobata Syn. versicolor 'Exotic Love'
Mina Lobata, Spanish Flag

Recently re-classified as a member of the Ipomoea genus (Ipomoea versicolor) and sometimes referred to as Quamoclit lobata, but still more widely recognised as Mina lobata... whatever you prefer to call it, this stunning half-hardy annual climbing plant is a must! Attractive foliage is followed by spikes of flowers that…

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Iris foetidissima NCG 029 Iris foetidissima
Stinking Iris

An unusual woodland iris with dingy yellow/brown flowers with a purplish tinge, arising from stiff, sword shaped foliage. The flowers are followed by large green seedpods that open to reveal neat rows of bright red seeds. Don't be put off by the name - any smell is only apparent when…

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Iris germanica 'Rosy Wings' NCG 532 Iris germanica 'Rosy Wings'
Bearded iris 'Rosy Wings'

A gorgeous, tall and robust bearded iris, 'Rosy Wings' is dusky-rose with deep magenta falls. It flowers profusely, the blooms rising on strong stems, contrasting well with the light-green, sword-shaped foliage.

NOTE: Depending on season, plants, when available, may be trimmed back and/or barerooted for shipping.

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Iris germanica, blue NCG 718 Iris germanica, blue
Bearded iris, blue

I'm not sure of the name of this delightful bearded iris. The blooms, which appear in spring, have dark blue falls and lemon-yellow standards, on strong stems. Much recommended!

NOTE: Depending on season, plants, when available, may be trimmed back and/or barerooted for shipping.

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Iris  germanica, pale blue NCG 719 Iris germanica, pale blue
Bearded iris, pale blue

A dependable, robust bearded iris with a profusion of pale-blue blooms in spring, contrasting well with the grey-green, sword-shaped foliage. Makes a good cut flower.

NOTE: Depending on season, plants, when available, may be trimmed back and/or barerooted for shipping.

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Iris germanica, White NCG 687 Iris germanica, White
Bearded iris, White

A gorgeous, tall and robust bearded iris, The flowers are white, with a very slight blueish tone. Flowering profusely, the blooms rise on strong stems, contrasting well with the grey-green, sword-shaped foliage. A delightful plant.

NOTE: Depending on season, plants, when available, may be trimmed back and/or barerooted for…

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Iris pseudacorus NCG 510 Iris pseudacorus
Yellow flag, Yellow iris

Although it will grow well in most soils, this iris is particularly happy in aquatic conditions, so is best grown as a marginal plant or in a bog garden. It produces bright-yellow blooms in spring, supported by strong stems clothed in bright-green, sword-shaped foliage.

NOTE: Depending on season, plants, when…

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Iris sanguinea AGM NCG 415 Iris sanguinea AGM
Blood-red iris

This delicate iris is perhaps my favourite. The Audrey Hepburn of the iris family... not cheap and gaudy but delicate, composed and very, very classy - a natural beauty! I'm not quite sure how it got its common name; the petals do have a reddish base, but are for the…

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Iris setosa var arctica NCG 243 Iris setosa var arctica
Dwarf Arctic iris

This sweet little iris, standing only a few inches tall, has pale blue flowers with striking veins, and are yellow at the centre, fading to silver. The blooms appear above green, spear-shaped leaves.

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Jovellana punctata NCG 892 Jovellana punctata
Tea cup plant

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Kirengeshoma palmata AGM NCG 060 Kirengeshoma palmata AGM
Yellow Wax Bells

A lovely woodland plant. Tall, dark, upright stems bear light green, maple-shaped leaves and the spherical flower buds open to 1in, waxy, pale yellow, bell-shaped blooms in autumn. Choose a well-sheltered site as although strictly speaking hardy, neither new spring growth nor flowers tolerate frost and mature plants do not…

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Knautia macedonica, Ex. red NCG 277 Knautia macedonica, Ex. red
Pincushion flower, Macedonian scabious (Red)

Masses of very delicate, deep-red, 'pincushion' flowers (very like scabious), about an inch across, on tall, thin, branching stems. This plant has a very long flowering season and is much loved by hoverflies and bees. Generally not as tall and robust as her pink sister, and seed is in shorter…

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Kniphofia caulescens NCG 457 Kniphofia caulescens
Caulescent red-hot poker

Description coming soon.

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Lamium maculatum 'Beacon Silver' NCG 579 Lamium maculatum 'Beacon Silver'
Spotted dead nettle 'Beacon Silver'

This lovely, low-growing ground cover plant has a spreading habit, but is relatively easy to keep in check. The heavily marked foliage is delightful, and the plant has the added bonus of pink flowers. Best grown in shade or part-shade and will happily tolerate both dry and wet soils.

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Lamium Syn. Lamiastrum galeobdolon subsp. Argentatum 'Herman's Pride' NCG 439 Lamium Syn. Lamiastrum galeobdolon subsp. Argentatum 'Herman's Pride'
Variegated Yellow Archangel 'Herman's Pride'

A small, variegated nettle with spikes of yellow flowers. A good choice for woodland planting or at the front of shady borders.

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Lathyrus belinensis 'Goldmine' NCG 078 Lathyrus belinensis 'Goldmine'
The Belin Pea

This delightful sweet pea was discovered only in 1998, in Turkey. The flowers are no more than an inch across, yellow and orange with distinctive deep red veins. The leaves are attractive - small and reddish-green. The plant grows to only 3ft or so, making it a useful feature in…

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Lathyrus chloranthus NCG 033 Lathyrus chloranthus
Yellow Sweet Pea

An unusual species sweet pea, the small, unscented flowers are green-yellow. I often grow them up loose wigwams made from buddelia sticks inserted into large tubs, underplanted with lobelia, small antirrhinums and perhaps a lantana in the middle. They are also happy scrambling up trellis.

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Lathyrus cirrhosus NCG 387 Lathyrus cirrhosus
Cirrhose vetch

A collector's item! This very unusual small but robust, scrambling perennial sweet pea is native to the Pyrenees and forms a dense mound of attractive, grey-green foliage bearing tendrils and many small, pale-pink, unscented blooms from June well into summer. A deceptively robust plant that will do well in relatively…

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Lathyrus latifolius 'Albus' NCG 031 Lathyrus latifolius 'Albus'
White everlasting sweet pea

Although unscented, the everlasting sweet pea is most attractive grown against a sunny wall, trellis or fence - or permitted to grow through a large shrub or small tree - and provides masses of flower stems. Very suitable for cutting. These seeds are gathered from Lathyrus latifolius 'Alba' and are…

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Lathyrus odoratus NCG 030 Lathyrus odoratus
Mixed Sweet Pea

This mixture of sweet peas in pink, red, blue, mauve and maybe occasionally pale yellow (lathyrus chloranthus). Something of a Jamboree bag, but will no doubt produce some attractive plants and all will complement each other!

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Lathyrus odoratus 'Cupani' NCG 268 Lathyrus odoratus 'Cupani'
Sweet Pea 'Cupani'

Seeds of this delightful heirloom sweet pea was sent in 1699 by Father Cupani, a Franciscan monk from Sicily, to Dr Robert Uvedale, who resided in Enfield, Middlesex. All our modern sweet peas are descended from these seeds. The flowers, which have dark blue standards and purple wings, are produced…

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Lathyrus odoratus 'Painted Lady' NCG 504 Lathyrus odoratus 'Painted Lady'
Sweet Pea 'Painted Lady'

One of my favourite sweet peas... the highly-scented flowers are smallish, with dark-pink banners, pale pink (sometimes almost white) wings and a greenish-white keel. Very limited stock, unfortunately!

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Lathyrus odoratus 'Prince of Orange' NCG 786 Lathyrus odoratus 'Prince of Orange'
Old fashioned sweet pea 'Prince of Orange'

A delightful old-fashioned sweet pea with strong-scented flowers, the standards being a rich apricot-orange and the wings pink - a strange contrast that really works!

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Lathyrus odoratus 'Red Mix' NCG 195 Lathyrus odoratus 'Red Mix'
Sweet Pea 'Red Mix'

A mixture of sweet peas collected from light, mid and dark-red flowered plants

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Lathyrus odoratus 'Senator' NCG 474 Lathyrus odoratus 'Senator'
Sweet Pea 'Senator' (Heirloom)

A delightfully sweet-scented heirloom variety of sweet pea, usually described as a chocolate maroon flake, and an Eckford introduction from 1891. NOTE: Since other sweet peas are grown in the garden I cannot guarantee that all will breed true, but in my experience most should do so.

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Lathyrus odoratus 'Wiltshire Ripple' NCG 214 Lathyrus odoratus 'Wiltshire Ripple'
Sweet Pea 'Wiltshire Ripple'

This delightful heirloom variety of sweet pea is deliciously scented and its distinctive marking make it a must for my garden! Highly recommended.

NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Lathyrus odoratus mixed NCG 383 Lathyrus odoratus mixed

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Lathyrus rotundifolius NCG 538 Lathyrus rotundifolius
Persian Everlasting Pea

A lovely small perennial sweet pea with small, coral-red blooms and rounded foliage. Ideal for growing over small structures or permitted to climb through medium-sized shrubs. Just a few small plants available. The blooms are unscented, but very attractive.

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Lathyrus sativus var. albus NCG 443 Lathyrus sativus var. albus
Indian Vetch, Chickling Pea, Grass Pea (White)

A variant of the blue chickling pea. the centres of the small, white flowers are sometimes flushed with sky-blue and pink (see inset). A small plant by sweet pea standards, it looks lovely tumbling out of hanging baskets. I usually cut the plants back to within a few inches of…

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Lathyrus sativus var. azureus NCG 032 Lathyrus sativus var. azureus
King Tutankhamun's pea, Indian Vetch, Chickling Pea, Grass Pea

My favourite sweet pea, despite the fact that is has no scent. Rumoured to originate here in the UK from seeds found by Harold Carter, the Egyptologist, in Tutankhamun's tomb, the small flowers are a delicate clear sky-blue, with pink centres. A small plant by sweet pea standards, it looks…

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Lathyrus Syn. Orobus vernus NCG 468 Lathyrus Syn. Orobus vernus
Spring bitter vetch, Spring pea, Spring vetchling

A lovely mound of reddish-purple pea blooms in spring, maturing to purple-blue. A lovely addition to the woodland garden!

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Lavandula angustifolia NCG 397 Lavandula angustifolia
English Lavender

Although lavender seed will not come true, but will produce plants with some variation in colour and form, unless you plan to make a formal feature in your garden this can be a plus... a mass planting of lavender grown from seed, with colours ranging from light mauve to deep…

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Lavandula multifida NCG 657 Lavandula multifida
Fernleaf lavender, Oregano-scented Lavender

A fast growing lavender with finely divided grey-green foliage and delicate, deep-purple flowers spikes. A very pretty filler for any sunny spot in the garden. Happily self-seeds. I have classified it as a half-annual because although some sources say it is perennial, in my experience it does not survive UK…

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Lavandula stoechas NCG 450 Lavandula stoechas
French lavender

The true French lavender. Heads of tiny fragrant purple flowers topped by rosy-purple tracts in late spring and summer. Very aromatic.

NOTE: Plants offered winter 2018/19 are best overwintered in a frost-free greenhouse.

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Ledebouria socialis NCG 558 Ledebouria socialis
Silver squill, Purple squill, South African Scilla, Leopard Lily

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Leptinella Syn. Cotula squalida 'Platt's Black' NCG 914 Leptinella Syn. Cotula squalida 'Platt's Black'
Brass buttons

Mat forming - great for growing between paving stones and in rockeries.

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Leucanthemella serotina NCG 168 Leucanthemella serotina
Autumn Ox Eye, High Daisy, Giant Daisy

Masses of white daisy flowers about 2 inches across top this tall plant, which is more delicate than the related Leucanthemum superbum. The stems are taller and less lax, seldom needing support. Much recommended, both for the back of the border and as a cut flower.

N.B.…

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Leucanthemum  x superbum NCG 254 Leucanthemum x superbum
Shasta Daisy

Welcome colour at the back end of the year - masses of white daisies 3-4in across in late summer/early autumn, held on tall stems clothed in small, rather shiny, toothed dark-green leaves. Perfect for the back of the border, where it will quickly form a large clump. The stems can…

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Levisticum officinale NCG 541 Levisticum officinale
Lovage

Description coming soon.

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Leycesteria formosa NCG 070 Leycesteria formosa
Pheasant Berry, Himalayan honeysuckle, Flowering nutmeg

The stems of this most unusual-looking plant resemble bamboo and are a feature in the winter garden. However, they should be cut back hard in spring to encourage new, bushy growth. The flowers are small, appearing as nodding bunches surrounded by dark-maroon bracts, followed by reddish-brown berries which are edible…

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Lilium lancifolium 'Flore Pleno' NCG 596 Lilium lancifolium 'Flore Pleno'
Double Tiger lily

This stunning double lily has orange double flowers with brown spots.

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Linaria purpurea NCG 164 Linaria purpurea
Perennial Toadflax

This delightful plant with its tall spikes of tiny purple or pink flowers resembling miniature snapdragons, which appear from a basal clump of fine, grey-green leaves, is attractive not only to right-minded humans, but to wildlife... it is much loved by butterflies and bees. It flowers from June right through…

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Linaria purpurea 'Canon J Went' NCG 787 Linaria purpurea 'Canon J Went'
Perennial Toadflax 'Canon Went'

Although this pretty plant has both purple and pink varieties, and seeds are available on this website as a mix collected from both colours of plant, I am offering here seed collected only from pink plants. I cannot guarantee that all will come true, but it is likely that more…

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Linaria reticulata 'Flamenco' NCG 777 Linaria reticulata 'Flamenco'
Annual toadflax 'Flamenco'

This versatile little annual, which is native to North Africa, but easy to grow in our climate, should be better known! The blooms, which are a striking fuchsia-red with bright yellow lips - looking rather like miniature snapdragons - keep coming for many months in summer. Seldom exceeding 12 in/30…

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Linum grandiflorum var. rubrum NCG 344 Linum grandiflorum var. rubrum
Scarlet flax

Like the more familiar blue and white variety, Linum usitatissimum, Scarlet flax produces a profusion of small flowers with a satiny finish, but - as is obvious from the name - they are a rich red. A very worthwhile annual to grow.

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Linum narbonense 'Heavenly Blue' AGM NCG 367 Linum narbonense 'Heavenly Blue' AGM
Perennial flax 'Heavenly Blue'

This charming, usually short-lived, perennial produces masses of clear blue flowers an inch in diameter and dark-green foliage on wiry stems. The flowers last only a day, but new buds burst daily too, so during summer the plant is always full of colour. It will self-seed but is not a…

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Linum perenne 'Blue Sapphire' NCG 483 Linum perenne 'Blue Sapphire'
Perennial flax 'Blue Sapphire'

This compact form of perennial flax is a cottage garden favourite, with ferny foliage and masses of sky-blue flowers from late spring and right through the summer. It works well as an edging plant, in containers and for naturalising in wildlife gardens. Although short-lived, it will gently self-seed. Established plants…

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Linum perenne Nanum Album 'Diamant' NCG 623 Linum perenne Nanum Album 'Diamant'
White perennial flax

Description coming soon. Externally sourced seeds.

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Linum  usitatissimum NCG 034 Linum usitatissimum
Common Flax, Linseed

The delicate flowers of this dainty plant are sky-blue or white, on fine, grey-blue foliage - a delight to see en masse! Ours appeared from nowhere in my hot bed (flax is grown in the fields nearby, so the seeds were, no doubt, brought in by birds). Despite the fact…

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Liriope muscari 'Royal Purple' AGM NCG 252 Liriope muscari 'Royal Purple' AGM
Big blue lilyturf

Happiest in part shade and moist soil, Liriope offers interest all year round. It forms clumps of glossy, evergreen, strap-like leaves, which contrast well with spikes of deep purple flowers from late summer and into the autumn. These are followed by glossy black berries. Growing up to about 1 foot…

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Lobelia erinus NCG 959 Lobelia erinus
Edging lobelia, Garden lobelia or Trailing lobelia

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Lobelia siphilitica NCG 601 Lobelia siphilitica
Great blue lobelia, Blue cardinal flower

This stately plant, which originates from Northern America, has tall spires of rich-blue or violet, tubular flowers above rosettes of dark green leaves. It much loved by pollinating insects but on the other hand is said to be a herbivore deterrent, which, if it works, will be useful to gardeners…

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Lunaria annua NCG 035 Lunaria annua
Honesty, Money Plant, Moonwort

An old cottage garden favourite, the seedheads of which are often to be seen in dried floral arrangements. Carefully rub the seed pod (silicles) casings off the dried stems to reveal moon-shine like membranes that give this plant its Latin name. A trouble-free plant that will establish itself happily and…

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Lunaria annua var. albiflora syn. alba NCG 652 Lunaria annua var. albiflora syn. alba
White-flowered honesty

A white-flowered variation on the old cottage garden favourite, the seedheads of which are often to be seen in dried floral arrangements. Carefully rub the seed pod (silicles) casings off the dried stems to reveal moon-shine like membranes that give this plant its Latin name. A trouble-free plant that will…

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Lupinus arboreus alba NCG 494 Lupinus arboreus alba
White Tree Lupin

This variety of tree lupin bears masses of beautiful white flower spikes in early summer. Although generally short-lived, plants produced from early-spring sowings can attain 2m in their first year, so casualties can be replaced very easily.

NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Lupinus polyphyllus, mixed NCG 371 Lupinus polyphyllus, mixed
Lupin - mixed

A popular cottage garden plant, the lupin produces tall spikes of bi-coloured flowers in a variety of shades in late spring/early summer.

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Lupinus x russellii 'Chandelier' NCG 797 Lupinus x russellii 'Chandelier'
Lupin, Russell strain 'Chandelier'

A superior hybrid variety of the popular cottage garden plant, this lupin, which is also known as 'Kronleuchter', produces tall spikes of golden-yellow flowers in late spring/early summer.

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Lychnis arkwrightii NCG 818 Lychnis arkwrightii
Lychnis Vesuvius

A dynamic plant that deserves to be better known! Red-orange flowers appear from June and continue flowering right through until early autumn, above beautiful bronze-green foliage. It has a bushy, dwarf habit, making it good plant for containers. If sown early, under cover, it should flower in the first year.

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Lysimachia atropurpurea 'Beaujolais' NCG 584 Lysimachia atropurpurea 'Beaujolais'
Burgundy gooseneck loosestrife

This short-lived perennial is more usually grown as a biennial, and can be permitted to gently self-seed. The flower spikes are similar in shape to the more widely-known Lysimachia clethroides, but instead of white, the blooms are a rich burgundy colour, contrasting well with small, slightly crinkly, grey-green leaves. Attractive…

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Lysimachia ciliata 'Firecracker' NCG 394 Lysimachia ciliata 'Firecracker'
Fringed loosestrife 'Firecracker'

The picture does not really do this plant justice. Attractive, deep-purple rosettes of rounded leaves appear in early spring, followed by tall spikes of more pointed leaves which bear small, yellow, star-shaped flowers along their length. Although moist - even wet - soil is recommended, mine grow in a dry,…

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Lysimachia clethroides AGM NCG 312 Lysimachia clethroides AGM
Gooseneck loosestrife

Lysimachia clethroides is very attractive, with its light-to-mid-green leaves and panicles of tiny, star shaped flowers in summer. Makes a very good cut flower. It is a vigorous plant that is best sited where is can be allowed to spread.

Plants may sometimes be supplied bare-rooted, but will easily…

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Lysimachia ephemerum NCG 666 Lysimachia ephemerum
Willow-leaved loosestrife

Description coming soon.

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Lysimachia punctata NCG 685 Lysimachia punctata
Garden loosestrife, Dotted loosestrife

A popular cottage garden plant, with tall spikes of golden-yellow flowers from mid- to late-summer, contrasting with light-green foliage. It has a spreading habit and does need to be kept in check, but is nevertheless a useful plant for late summer colour.

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Maianthemum dilatatum NCG 299 Maianthemum dilatatum
False Lily-of-the-Valley

False Lily-of-the-Valley has beautiful, heart-shaped, mid-green leaves, which are shiny and textured with deep veins. Slender spikes bearing waxy, creamy-white blooms appear in Spring and early Summer, followed by green berries, which later turn translucent red. Prefers shade and nitrogen-rich soil, making this a good plant for underplanting in woodland…

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Malva sylvestris 'Zebrina' NCG 707 Malva sylvestris 'Zebrina'
Tall mallow, French hollyhock

Related to the hollyhock, this attractive, bushy perennial produces masses of large, palest-pink blooms with striking, almost black markings. Loves full sun but will tolerate part-shade. May require staking on exposed sites.

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Malvastrum Syn. Modiolastrum lateritium NCG 597 Malvastrum Syn. Modiolastrum lateritium
False mallow

This lovely plant deserves to be better known! Originating from South America, it is spectacular when given the right conditions. It is happiest growing in a hot, very sunny situation in well-drained soil, where it can be allowed either to creep over the ground or be trained up a brick…

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Matricaria recutita syn. chamomilla NCG 939 Matricaria recutita syn. chamomilla
German chamomile

Also known as Matricaria chamomilla or Chamomilla recutita, this is the chamomile which is brewed as a tea. More info coming later!

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Melothria scabra NCG 726 Melothria scabra
Cucamelon

Looking for all the world like miniature watermelons, these bite-sized cucumbers are full of flavour, with a hint of lime! Usually grown as an annual, but see growing instructions below.

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Mentha spicata NCG 693 Mentha spicata
Spearmint, Garden mint

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Mentha suaveolens NCG 694 Mentha suaveolens
Apple mint

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Mimulus x hybridus, mixed NCG 090 Mimulus x hybridus, mixed
Mimulus, Monkey Flower, mixed

A very useful plant for front of borders, baskets and other containers. The flowers are mostly yellow and red, but occasonally orange or cream. Although strictly speaking a perennial, best treated as an annual. For best results, ensure that the plants receive adequate water supplies, and cut back after flowering…

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Mirabilis jalapa NCG 855 Mirabilis jalapa
Four o'clock flower, Marvel of Peru

Description coming soon.

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Mirabilis longiflora NCG 876 Mirabilis longiflora
Sweet Four O'Clock, Longtube Four O'Clock, Maravilla

Synonyms: Jalapa longiflora, Mirabilis longiflora var. wrightiana, Nyctago longiflora

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Monarda fistulosa NCG 485 Monarda fistulosa
Wild Bergamot, Bee Balm, Horsemint, Oswego Tea

A beautiful perennial well known as a medicinal herb. The masses of pale-mauve blooms are very attractive to butterflies, bees and other pollinating insects, The foliage is scented.

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Muscari botryoides NCG 386 Muscari botryoides
Common or Italian Grape Hyacinth

Description coming soon

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Nasturtium microphyllum NCG 583 Nasturtium microphyllum
One-rowed Watercress

Description coming soon.

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Nasturtium peregrinum NCG 528 Nasturtium peregrinum
Canary creeper

This pretty annual climber will happily scramble over fences and trellis, though you may wish to provide some string to help it on its way. The pretty, fringed, yellow flowers appear in profusion during the summer and the lobed, pale-green foliage is also very attractive. Good for hiding eyesores!

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Nemophila discoides 'Total Eclipse' NCG 189 Nemophila discoides 'Total Eclipse'
Black nemophila

A profusion of blooms no more than an inch across, coloured deep purple - almost black - with white edges. A lovely statement at the front of the border or tumbling from hanging baskets and planters.

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Nepeta cataria NCG 612 Nepeta cataria
Catnip

Catmint has a strong aroma that both attracts cats and repels mosquitoes - what's not to like about that (if you're a cat-lover at least!)? The underside of the foliage has a downy appearance; in summer spikes of pale, purplish flowers whitish-purple flowers are produced

NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Nicandra physalodes NCG 323 Nicandra physalodes
Shoo-fly plant, Apple of Peru, Peruvian bluebell

Looking very similar to Chinese Lanterns (Physalis alkekengi), but with green/black lanterns rather than the familiar bright orange, and striking black stems, this plant is an annual and although it does seed itself around it is easier to control than Physalis (which multiplies by underground runners and has a tendency…

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Nicotiana alata 'Lime Green' AGM NCG 365 Nicotiana alata 'Lime Green' AGM
Jasmine tobacco, Sweet tobacco, Winged tobacco, lime green

A most unusual take on the familiar tobacco plant, this variety produces masses of rich, acid-green flowers. Mine are planted in a fairly shady area where they do very well, adding a touch of brightness throughout the summer and well into autumn. A good cut flower if you can bear…

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Nicotiana alata (Syn. affinis) var. grandiflora NCG 531 Nicotiana alata (Syn. affinis) var. grandiflora
Flowering tobacco, Jasmine tobacco

The queen of flowering tobacco plants! Taller and more robust than more modern varieties, the tall stems bear masses of pendulous, star-shaped blooms, starting greenish white, fading to cream and then white. Their wonderful fragrance wafts through the garden in the evenings. Highly recommended.

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Nicotiana langsdorffii AGM NCG 099 Nicotiana langsdorffii AGM
Langsdorff's tobacco

This unusual tobacco plant first appeared in the garden in the summer of 2011. Height is variable, but can reach 1metre or more, with many branching stems bearing masses of narrow, tubular flowers which are greenish-yellow, with small, usually red-tinged, lips.

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Nicotiana sylvestris NCG 782 Nicotiana sylvestris
Woodland tobacco plant

With a deliciously rich evening scent and pendulous white flowers, this tall plant is a valuable addition to the garden, where it will flourish in both sun and part shade. Although usually grown as a biennial, in the right conditions it can survive as a (usually) short-lived perennial. Highly recommended.

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Nigella damascena 'Miss Jekyll' NCG 038 Nigella damascena 'Miss Jekyll'
Love-in-a-Mist

Everything about this cottage garden favourite is spectacular, from the buds, through flowers to seed pods. The finely cut, bright-green foliage is bedecked with rich cornflower-blue flowers throughout the summer, which develop into seedpods, often tinged red and like spurred balloons. These are a lovely addition to dried flower arrangements.

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Nigella damascena 'Mulberry Rose' NCG 484 Nigella damascena 'Mulberry Rose'
Love-in-a-Mist 'Mulberry Rose'

Like her more common blue/white sister, this cottage garden annual, in shades soft pinks and occasional white, is a must! Everything about it is pretty, from the buds, through flowers to seed pods. The finely cut, bright-green foliage is bedecked with flowers throughout the summer, which develop into seedpods, often…

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Nigella orientalis NCG 823 Nigella orientalis
Yellow fennel flower, Yellow Love-in-a-Mist

Description coming soon.

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Nigella sativa NCG 380 Nigella sativa
Fennel Flower, Nutmeg Flower, Roman Coriander, False Black Cumin, Black Seed

Similar in many respects to the more familiar Nigella damascena (Love in a Mist), but the flowers are smaller and usually white, occasionally pale blue, on delicate stems clothed in very finely divided foliage. In Asian countries the seeds are traditionally used in rice dishes and confectionery. They are also…

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Ocimum basilicum 'Dark Opal' (Organic) NCG 479 Ocimum basilicum 'Dark Opal' (Organic)
Basil 'Dark Opal'

A dark-purple variety of basil, with smaller, more toothed leaves than the more commonly-grown Sweet Genovese. Great for adding contrasting colour to salads and tomato dishes. For companion planting enthusiasts, basil is said to encourage the growth of tomatoes, peppers and chillies!

NOTE: These are externally sourced, organic seeds.

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Ocimum basilicum 'Sweet Genovese' (Organic) NCG 209 Ocimum basilicum 'Sweet Genovese' (Organic)
Basil 'Sweet Genovese'

Almost everyone must be familiar with this very aromatic basil variety, with its large, green cushion-leaved foliage. For companion planting enthusiasts, basil is said to encourage the growth of tomatoes, peppers and chillies (and of course it is also a perfect companion in the kitchen for these and many other…

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Oenothera biennis NCG 470 Oenothera biennis
Evening primrose

Although generally thought of as a biennial, this favourite herbal and garden flower often survives as a perennial. In its second year of growth it produces masses of bright yellow blooms, which are delicately scented, on tall, branching stems.

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Oenothera glazioviana NCG 736 Oenothera glazioviana
Large-flowered evening primrose

A biennial growing up to 1.5m tall, producing a basal rosette of crinkly leaves in the first year, followed by yellow blooms in the following year, which open from late afternoon to evening. Unlike its sister, O. biennis, the buds are reddish in colour.

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Oenothera odorata 'Apricot Delight' NCG 271 Oenothera odorata 'Apricot Delight'
Evening Primrose 'Apricot Delight'

The blooms of this (sometimes short-lived) perennial variety of evening primrose are scented in the evenings, the fragrance being reminiscent of a combination of lemons and lilies. It has a rather more lax, open habit than the more common Oenothera biennis. The flower buds are a soft creamy-yellow, darkening to…

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Oenothera versicolor 'Sunset Boulevard' NCG 798 Oenothera versicolor 'Sunset Boulevard'
Sundrops 'Sunset Boulevard'

2018 was my first year growing this variety of Oenothera and I am delighted with it! A smaller, more delicate plant than the more familiar biennis, glazioviana and odorata, the flowers are diminutive - not much more than an inch (25mm) across, opening (in the morning rather than the evening,…

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Onopordum acanthium NCG 222 Onopordum acanthium
Scotch Thistle, Scottish Thistle, Cotton thistle

I don't generally welcome thistles in the garden, but this is an exception! This huge, ornamental thistle, which can reach 3 metres tall and a metre across, has spiny, silver-green leaves on a thick, branching stem, from which beautiful spherical buds develop, opening to gigantic pinkish-purple thistle flowers which are…

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Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' Syn. 'Kokuryu' NCG 253 Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' Syn. 'Kokuryu'
Lilyturf, Ornamental Black Grass, Black mondo grass

Although, true to its common name, this evergreen plant is both ornamental and black, it is not a grass! It forms clumps of glossy, purple-black leaves (some may occasionally be dark-green), with spikes of pale purplish-pink flowers in autumn, followed by glossy black berries. It grows only about 6 inches…

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Origanum vulgare NCG 766 Origanum vulgare
Wild marjoram

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Oxalis corniculata NCG 865 Oxalis corniculata
Creeping wood sorrel

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Oxalis corniculata var. atropurpurea NCG 514 Oxalis corniculata var. atropurpurea
Bronze leaved yellow sorrel, Procumbent yellow sorrel

A low-growing plant with dark, bronze-red leaves and small yellow flowers followed by upright seed capsules, this variety of oxalis, which is perennial, can be invasive more due to self-seeding than its creeping habit, but if kept in check is a valuable addition to the garden. It grows well in…

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Oxalis triangularis NCG 264 Oxalis triangularis
False Shamrock

This unusual and delightful plant looks far exotic to be hardy - but it is! Plants will be available later this year. Can be affected by a specific rust - Puccinia oxalidis.

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Paeonia daurica subsp. mlokosewitschii AGM NCG 260 Paeonia daurica subsp. mlokosewitschii AGM
Peony 'Molly the Witch'

This gorgeous paeony, with its blue-green foliage and large, soft creamy-yellow flowers and rich golden stamens, followed by interesting seed pods that are crimson red inside with blue-black seeds, is a much recommended herbaceous perennial. Note: Seeds harvested August 2018. They will be supplied in damp compost or vermiculite to…

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Paeonia lutea syn. delavayi var ludlowii NCG 315 Paeonia lutea syn. delavayi var ludlowii
Ludlow's tree peony, Yellow tree peony

This delightful plant is usually sold when much older - and far more expensive! But my own was self sown and flowered within four years, so if carefully looked after, these young plants should reward with their first blooms, which are single and a lovely clear yellow, within two years.…

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Panicum elegans 'Frosted Explosion' NCG 002 Panicum elegans 'Frosted Explosion'
Switch grass 'Frosted Explosion'

As the seed heads emerge, they resemble fibre optics! Lovely plant for floral arrangements. Remove seedheads if you don't want the grass to self seed, but unlike some grasses is not difficult to control - roots are shallow so young, unwanted plants can be removed easily.

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Papaver  cambricum NCG 036 Papaver cambricum
Welsh Poppy

This beautiful wild flower has clear yellow flowers - often with crinkled petals - and bright green foliage that lights up dark areas. Ours found their place under the apple trees. Recently renamed from Meconopsis cambrica.

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Papaver cambricum 'Frances Perry' NCG 779 Papaver cambricum 'Frances Perry'
Welsh poppy 'Frances Perry'

A lovely variant of the familiar yellow wildflower, with orange to vermillion flowers - often with crinkled petals - and rich green foliage. Recently renamed from Meconopsis cambrica.

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Papaver miyabeanum NCG 502 Papaver miyabeanum
Japanese poppy

Although strictly speaking a perennial, this very pretty alpine poppy is best treated as an annual or biennial. Just a few inches tall, with soft greenish-yellow blooms and basal rosettes of attractive, deeply divided foliage, followed by lovely seed heads, this is a pretty plant for containers or a rock…

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Papaver orientale 'Checkers' NCG 571 Papaver orientale 'Checkers'

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Papaver orientale 'Coral Reef' NCG 522 Papaver orientale 'Coral Reef'
Oriental poppy 'Coral Reef'

These lovely poppies, which have pink petals and a black centre, will, unlike many others, come true from seed. All the oriental poppies are gorgeous, with their huge, papery blooms, and are much loved by pollinating insects.

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Papaver paeoniflorum 'Scarlet Peony' NCG 374 Papaver paeoniflorum 'Scarlet Peony'
Peony Poppy 'Scarlet Peony'

Lovely red frilly pom-poms on tall, strong stems make this a wonderful cut flower.

Note: Externally sourced seeds.

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Papaver pilosum ssp. spicatum  Syn. P. heldreichii NCG 354 Papaver pilosum ssp. spicatum Syn. P. heldreichii
Spiked poppy

A rare poppy originating from south-western Turkey, this is unlike other poppies, in that it flowers along the length of its stem, not just at the tip. Stiff stems rise from rosettes of divided, grey-green foliage, bearing single, soft-orange blooms from late spring and through the summer. It is often…

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Papaver rhoeas - various NCG 096 Papaver rhoeas - various
Poppy Mixture

This is a mixture of Field, Ladybird (black-eyed), white-eyed and possibly other similar poppies. Most will be red, but there may be the occasional deep pink or pastel variety. They look lovely planted in drifts towards the front of the border.

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Papaver rupifragum 'Tangerine Parfait' NCG 039 Papaver rupifragum 'Tangerine Parfait'
Moroccan Poppy, Spanish Poppy

Soft, divided, grey-green leaves contrast beautifully with the double, soft-orange blooms on thin, wiry stems, which are produced continuously throught the summer months and well into autumn. The delicate seed heads can be used in dried flower arrangements. A short-lived perennial, but self-seeds.

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Papaver sominferum, true red NCG 776 Papaver sominferum, true red
Opium poppy, true red

The picture really doesn't do justice to the colour of this opium poppy, which is a true, rich red with a black centre. The seeds were gathered from a plant that appeared well after the other types in the garden had been and gone, so hopefully cross-pollination will have been…

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Papaver somniferum, Ex. Dusky purplish-red NCG 940 Papaver somniferum, Ex. Dusky purplish-red
Opium poppy, Ex. Dusky purplish-red

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Papaver somniferum, Ex. Pink, white centre NCG 803 Papaver somniferum, Ex. Pink, white centre
Opium poppy, Ex. Pink, white centre

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Papaver somniferum, Ex. white, single NCG 473 Papaver somniferum, Ex. white, single
Opium Poppy, white, single

This variant of the opium poppy has pure white blooms, usually single, with perhaps an occasional double or semi-double. These seeds are harvested from white plants, but other colours grow nearby. Although these are removed as soon as identified to help prevent cross-pollination, it cannot be guaranteed that all these…

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Papaver somniferum, red, single NCG 040 Papaver somniferum, red, single
Opium Poppy, red, single

Harvested from deep-coral-pink plants with a darker eye and occasional fringes, but although common varieties growing near these were removed as soon as identified, it cannot be guaranteed that all these seeds will breed true - however, a very reasonable proportion should do so.

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Papaver somniferum, single, mauve NCG 330 Papaver somniferum, single, mauve
Opium Poppy, single, mauve

The flowers of the familiar opium poppy are often pale purple-pink, but are quite variable, with colours varying from almost white to dark purple-pink and sometimes shades of salmon-pink. The darkness of the blotch at the centre of the flowers can also be variable. The seeds of are widely used…

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Passiflora caerulea NCG 181 Passiflora caerulea
Blue passion flower, Common passion flower

Attractive in all respects, this vigorous climber has not only exquisitely intricate flowers but distinctive lobed foliage and bright orange, egg-shaped fruits, which are edible when fully ripe but rather bland in taste, from late summer onwards. It is often deciduous in milder areas.

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Pelargonium 'Ardens' NCG 263 Pelargonium 'Ardens'
Ardens geranium

This delicate species pelargonium/geranium, which is a hybrid between P. lobatum and P. fulgidum, is very difficult to propagate and is therefore always in short supply. It has small, bright green leaves and clusters of small, rich vermillion flowers with a darker, almost black, splash on each petal. Like most…

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Pelargonium sidoides NCG 262 Pelargonium sidoides
Kalwerbossie geranium, Silverleaf geranium

This very dainty species pelargonium/geranium, which originates from Africa, has circular, crinkled, silver-grey-green, aromatic leaves about an inch across and clusters of small, deep magenta - almost black - flowers on fine, long, wiry stems. Like most pelargoniums, it is frost tender, but it will sit happily on a sunny…

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Pelargonium x fragrans 'Nutmeg' NCG 679 Pelargonium x fragrans 'Nutmeg'
Nutmeg geranium

A dainty species pelargonium/geranium, with circular, crinkled, silver-grey-green leaves up to an inch across and clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers on fine, long, wiry stems throughout the summer. The leaves have a strong, spicy scent when rubbed or crushed. Thrives in a sunny, sheltered spot outdoors, although should also tolerate…

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Penstemon digitalis 'Huskers Red' NCG 621 Penstemon digitalis 'Huskers Red'

Spikes of pretty, pinkish-white blooms contras beautifully with maroon-tinted foliage. Flowering over many months, this is a lovely addition to the garden!

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Persicaria virginiana var. filiformis 'Lance Corporal' NCG 498 Persicaria virginiana var. filiformis 'Lance Corporal'
Virginia knotweed, Jumpseed 'Lance Corporal'

An interesting shrubby perennial with strong, v-shaped markings (looking rather like bats), which are dark brownish-red - sometimes almost black - on a bright green ground. In the autumn delicate spikes of bright-crimson flowers appear on thin, wiry stems. Although it is recommended to grow in part or full shade…

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Petroselinum crispum var. crispum NCG 153 Petroselinum crispum var. crispum
Curly Leaved Parsley

This variety of parsley forms bright green clumps of tightly crinkled leaves. No doubt everyone will be familiar with its use as a garnish in diverse situations (including, traditionally, the butcher's shop window - although often as plastic replicas!) and as a vital ingredient in stocks, soups and stews. Parsley…

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Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum AGM NCG 041 Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum AGM
Flat-leaved parsley

Sow wherever you have spare ground that retains moisture and provides some shade and you will have an almost continual supply of this verstile, vitamin C-packed herb throughout most of the year. A ridiculously simple, refreshing and healthy salad idea: finely chop a large handful of parsley and mix with…

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Phacelia Symphony NCG 208 Phacelia Symphony
Phacelia 'Symphony'

A hardy annual which flowers for many months, producing hundreds of pretty, blue or white star-shaped flowers on rather lax stems bearing attractive, lobed, mid-green foliage. Works well planted at the front of the border and allowed to spill over to soften the edge. Also good as underplanting in large…

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Phaseolus vulgaris 'Lingua di Fuoco Nano' (dwarf) NCG 493 Phaseolus vulgaris 'Lingua di Fuoco Nano' (dwarf)
Borlotto (Borlotti) Bean 'Lingua di Fuoco Nano'

Both strikingly attractive and delicious, Borlotto beans, with their soft-red and creamy-white markings, sweet flavour and creamy texture, can be used both in casseroles or as an addition to salads. (There is no need to soak fresh beans before cooking, but if you intend to dry and store your crop,…

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Phlox divaricata 'Clouds of Perfume' NCG 648 Phlox divaricata 'Clouds of Perfume'
Woodland phlox 'Clouds of Perfume'

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Phlox paniculata 'Pink Lady' NCG 640 Phlox paniculata 'Pink Lady'
Garden Phlox, Perennial Phlox 'Pink Lady'

This lovely plant has tall, erect stems clothed in red-tinged, mid-green foliage at the top of which appear large, loose globes of pink, sweetly scented flowers. It blooms for months and makes a wonderful addition to flower arrangements. As the flowers mature the perfume is reminiscent of caramel. Grow en…

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Phlox paniculata 'White Admiral' AGM NCG 244 Phlox paniculata 'White Admiral' AGM
Garden Phlox, Perennial Phlox 'White Admiral'

This lovely plant has tall, erect stems clothed in light- to mid-green foliage at the top of which appear large, loose globes of pure white, scented flowers. It blooms for months and makes a wonderful addition to flower arrangements. As the flowers mature the perfume is reminiscent of caramel. Grow…

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Phlox paniculata Mixed NCG 398 Phlox paniculata Mixed
Garden Phlox, Perennial Phlox - Mixed

Perennial phlox does not usually come true from seed, so although these seeds come from the white and pink varieties illustrated, they could produce plants of almost any hue within the range from white to dark-pink. All very pretty, though, and they make a great cut flower!

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Phygelius Ex. rectus 'Salmon Leap' NCG 616 Phygelius Ex. rectus 'Salmon Leap'
Cape fuchsia 'Salmon Leap'

Phygelius 'Salmon Leap' is a suckering plant with dark green leaves and attractive panicles of tubular, orange-red flowers in summer.

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Physostegia virginiana 'Summer Snow' NCG 608 Physostegia virginiana 'Summer Snow'
Obedient plant, False dragonhead

This attractive and versatile plant grows 18-24in tall and has a long flowering season, producing strong spikes of tiny, brilliant-white foxglove-like flowers above mid-green, finely toothed foliage.

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Phytolacca acinosa Syn. esculenta NCG 201 Phytolacca acinosa Syn. esculenta
Indian Pokeweed, Inkberry, Pidgeonberry

Although invariably referred to as American pokeweed (P. decandra Syn. americana), the variety seen in UK gardens is almost certainly Indian pokeweed (P. asinosa Syn. esculenta). Both look very similar, but P. acinosa has vertical, upright inflorescences, whilst P. americana has lax, dangling, flower stems, with single, spherical fruits on…

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Pilosella Syn. Hieracium aurantiaca NCG 925 Pilosella Syn. Hieracium aurantiaca
Fox and Cubs

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Potentilla recta sulphurea 'Pallida' AGM NCG 424 Potentilla recta sulphurea 'Pallida' AGM
Rough-fruited cinquefoil, Yellow cinquefoil

This pale-yellow variety of cinquefoil is a wildflower that makes a lovely addition to the cottage garden but is relatively unknown and rarely to be found for sale. It flowers for many months, from Spring and right through to the first frosts. Will gently self-seed. The colour can vary a…

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Potentilla thurberi 'Monarch's Velvet' NCG 698 Potentilla thurberi 'Monarch's Velvet'
Cinquefoil 'Monarch's Velvet'

This variety of cinquefoil produces rich, dark-red flowers from late spring and right through to the first frosts. Will usually gently self-seed.

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Primula japonica 'Miller's Crimson' AGM NCG 370 Primula japonica 'Miller's Crimson' AGM
Primrose 'Miller's Crimson'

Description coming soon.

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Primula pulverulenta AGM NCG 240 Primula pulverulenta AGM
Mealy primrose, Candelabra primula

Whorls of pink or soft red flowers clothe erect stems, at the base of which are rosettes of toothed leaves. This primula can grow to 2 feet high, but will usually be a little shorter.

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Primula vulgaris NCG 375 Primula vulgaris
Common primrose

Spring would not be Spring without the primrose! The soft yellow blooms of this familiar native wildflower arise on short stems from basal rosettes of crinkly, light-green leaves. Seeds itself around happily but is not difficult to control.

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Primula Syn. Dodecatheon hendersonii Ex. alba NCG 328 Primula Syn. Dodecatheon hendersonii Ex. alba
Shooting star

Unusual and attractive, down-pointing candelabras of white flowers, yellow and black at the tips, appear in Spring on straight stems, arising from a rosette of rather fleshy, mid- to light-green leaves. They seem to be very shade-tolerant - mine are sited under an apple tree and put on a beautiful…

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Pseudofumaria alba  subsp. acaulis Syn. Corydalis ochroleuca NCG 832 Pseudofumaria alba subsp. acaulis Syn. Corydalis ochroleuca
Pale corydalis

Creamy flowers appear in spring and continue throughout the summer, above beautiful light-green divided foliage. Generally a short-lived perennial, but gently self-seeds.

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Pseudofumaria Syn. Corydalis lutea NCG 870 Pseudofumaria Syn. Corydalis lutea
Yellow corydalis, Yellow fumitory

Lemon-yellow flowers appear in spring and continue throughout the summer, above beautiful light-green divided foliage. Generally a short-lived perennial, but gently self-seeds.

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Pulmonaria officinalis NCG 308 Pulmonaria officinalis
Blue Lungwort

All the pulmonarias are lovely shade plants, and no less this, the common type. Blue flowers, turning mauve and then pink, adorn rather hairy stems up to 12 inches tall growing from a rosette of green foliage specked with white.

NOTE: Plants, when offered, may, depending on season, be trimmed right…

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Pulmonaria officinalis 'Opal' Syn. 'Ocupol' NCG 634 Pulmonaria officinalis 'Opal' Syn. 'Ocupol'
Lungwort 'Opal'

Pulmonarias are lovely shade plants and this variety is delightful! Lighting up shady areas, the palest-blue flowers are borne on hairy stems up to 12 inches tall growing from a rosette of green foliage specked with white.

NOTE: Plants, when offered, may, depending on season, be trimmed right back, but will…

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Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White' NCG 307 Pulmonaria officinalis 'Sissinghurst White'
White lungwort

All the pulmonarias are lovely shade plants, and no less this, the white form of the common type. A joy to see the white flowers adorn rather hairy stems up to 12 inches tall growing from a rosette of green foliage specked with white. A trouble free plant. Cut back…

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Pulmonaria rubra 'Redstart' NCG 306 Pulmonaria rubra 'Redstart'
Coral Lungwort

This unusual pulmonaria is low-growing and mat-forming, making it a good choice for ground cover in moist, shady areas - lighting them up just when a little colour is so welcome! The leaves are mid-green and unspotted, above which masses of coral-red flowers appear on short, hairy stems in early…

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Pulsatilla vulgaris NCG 622 Pulsatilla vulgaris
Pasque flower

Description coming soon.

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Punica granatum NCG 566 Punica granatum
Pomegranate

Although usually associated with warmer climes, the pomegranate can withstand temperatures as low as -15C. Best sited in a sheltered, sunny position. In particularly cold areas of the UK, it might be advisable to grow in a container, to be overwintered in an unheated greenhouse.

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Ranunculus lingua 'Grandiflorus' NCG 226 Ranunculus lingua 'Grandiflorus'
Large-flowered Greater Spearwort

This is a lovely aquatic plant which, in its natural habitat, favours shallow streams or river banks. It can be grown as a marginal plant in ponds, but is generally not suited to small ponds as it can be rather invasive. Clear yellow buttercup-like flowers appear in mid-summer above tall,…

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Rheum x hybridum NCG 765 Rheum x hybridum
Rhubarb

Description coming soon.

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Rhodochiton atrosanguineus AGM NCG 352 Rhodochiton atrosanguineus AGM
Purple Bell Vine

This delightful climber deserves a place in every garden! Throughout the summer and into autumn, near-black, tubular flowers with dark-pink bracts dangle amongst wiry, twining stems with toothed, heart-shaped, dark green leaves. For best effect, I plant three or four in a 9 inch pot. Despite its exotic appearance, the…

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Ricinus  communis 'Impala' NCG 042 Ricinus communis 'Impala'
Castor oil plant

A stunning and exotic specimen plant with large palmate leaves, coloured from dark green to red-bronze. The creamy-yellow flower spikes, whilst attractive, are not as interesting as the spiky maroon-red seed pods. In warmer climates ricinus can grow to the size of a small tree up to 15ft high, but…

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Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba' NCG 373 Rodgersia pinnata 'Superba'
Featherleaf rodgersia

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Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm' NCG 079 Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm'
Black-eyed Susan, Coneflower, Gloriosa Daisy

This perennial Rudbeckia is a trouble-free plant that makes a stunning statement when planted en masse in the hot bed! The deep yellow flowers with black eyes stand on tall, wiry stems and are a very useful cut flower. Prefers full sun but will tolerte part shade.

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Rudbeckia laciniata 'Herbstsonne' AGM NCG 066 Rudbeckia laciniata 'Herbstsonne' AGM
Black-eyed Susan, Cutleaf Coneflower, Gloriosa Daisy

This magnificent, very tall - 2 metres or more - rudbeckia is a good choice for the back of the border. The large, bright yellow blooms have striking lime green cones and are borne on straight stems clothed in dark green foliage. A beautiful cut flower. Although my plants produce…

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Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Green Wizard' NCG 425 Rudbeckia occidentalis 'Green Wizard'
Cone flower 'Green Wizard'

A wonderful cut flower, fresh or dried, this unusual hardy rudbeckia has its origins in Western USA. From late-spring and well into summer it produces elongated, russet-brown cones above a circle of green bracts on tall, strong stems bearing dark green leaves. Much recommended!

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Rudbeckia x hirta 'Caramel Mixed' NCG 043 Rudbeckia x hirta 'Caramel Mixed'
Black-eyed Susan, Coneflower, Gloriosa Daisy 'Caramel Mixed'

This rudbeckia mixture will produce double blooms in soft but warm shades of amber, copper and burnt rose, with a distinctive cone at the centre. The blooms stand on tall, wiry stems and make good cut flowers. A stunning addition to the hot bed! Prefers full sun but will tolerate…

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Rumex acetosa NCG 436 Rumex acetosa
Common sorrel

Description coming soon

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Rumex sanguineus var. sanguineus NCG 542 Rumex sanguineus var. sanguineus
Bloody dock, Red-veined dock, Red-veined sorrel

This most unusual and attractive foliage plant produces dense clumps of deep-green leaves with striking, beetroot-red veins. The colouring is usually more pronounced at cooler times of the year. The flower spikes have insignificant blooms and are best removed to encourage more foliage and to prevent self-seeding.

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Salvia forskaohlei NCG 284 Salvia forskaohlei
Indigo woodland sage

An unusual, hardy salvia with large, textured leaves and deep purple and white flowers on strong stems. Very attractive.

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Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue' NCG 760 Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue'
Anise-scented sage, Hummingbird sage

Salvia guaranitica, the anise-scented sage or hummingbird sage, is a species of Salvia native to a wide area of South America, including Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina. A tall plant with rich-green, aromatic foliage and spikes cobalt-blue flowers contrasting with near-black sepals in late summer to autumn. It is very…

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Salvia nemorosa Alba NCG 761 Salvia nemorosa Alba
Woodland sage, white

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Salvia patens 'Oxford Blue' NCG 453 Salvia patens 'Oxford Blue'
Gentian Sage 'Oxford Blue'

The showy, clear blue flowers of this salvia are the most beautiful of the sage family! Grow en masse for best effect. Makes a good cut flower if you can bear to cut it.

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Salvia verticillata NCG 048 Salvia verticillata
Whorled clary sage

Whorls of small, lilac flowers spaced along stems arising from dense clumps of grey-green, slightly hairy, basal foliage. A tough plant that tolerates sand, chalk and dryness.

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Salvia x jamensis Syn. greggii Syn. microphylla , Red NCG 869 Salvia x jamensis Syn. greggii Syn. microphylla , Red
Autumn sage, red

A lovely red perennial salvia, which is usually hardy, though winter protection is recommended in colder parts of the UK.

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Salvia x jamensis Syn. microphylla 'Hot Lips' NCG 587 Salvia x jamensis Syn. microphylla 'Hot Lips'
Woody sage 'Hot Lips'

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Salvia x jamensis Syn. microphylla 'Nachtvlinder' NCG 586 Salvia x jamensis Syn. microphylla 'Nachtvlinder'
Woody sage 'Nachtvlinder'

Description coming soon. A cross between S. Greggii and S. Microphylla?

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Sanguisorba hakusanensis NCG 072 Sanguisorba hakusanensis
Korean Burnet

A plant with not only very attractive, feathery pink spikes of flowers in summer, but beautiful light-green, toothed foliage too.

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Sanicula Syn. Hacquetia epipactis AGM NCG 536 Sanicula Syn. Hacquetia epipactis AGM
Broad leaved sanicle

This most unusual and attractive low-growing plant for shade is related to the humble carrot, but to which it bears no obvious resemblance! Produces masses of tiny little yellow flowers in early Spring, above rounded domes of bright, lime-green foliage.

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Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Beaujolais Bonnets' NCG 697 Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Beaujolais Bonnets'
Pincushion flower 'Beaujolais Bonnets'

This attractive perennial is bushy plant growing to a height of around 24 inches/60 cm. It has intricately divided foliage and produces masses of small flowers with deep-burgundy centres surrounded by paler petals, borne on wiry stems. Attractive to butterflies and other pollinating insects and makes a good cut flower.

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Scabiosa syn. Lomelosia caucasica, mixed NCG 524 Scabiosa syn. Lomelosia caucasica, mixed
Scabious, mixed

This traditional cottage garden plant is a must! Easy to grow, and making a wonderful cut flower, the blooms are coloured from white and cream to various shades of blue, on tall stems. As a bonus, both seed heads and foliage are attractive.

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Scilla litardierei 'Amethystina' AGM NCG 337 Scilla litardierei 'Amethystina' AGM
Amethyst meadow squill

A lovely little plant with intensely blue flower spikes from spring to early summer. The seeds on offer will, of course, need time to develop into bulbs of flowering size, but they can be left to their own devices and grow quite quickly. These are very useful bulbs for naturalising,…

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Scirpus atrovirens NCG 495 Scirpus atrovirens
Dark-green bulrush

A popular marginal pond plant, this bulrush has very attractive dark brown (almost black) seed heads in spring, above dark-green, grass-like foliage. The seeds, although extremely small, are popular with garden birds.

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Scleranthus biflorus NCG 660 Scleranthus biflorus
Lime lava

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Scrophularia nodosa NCG 682 Scrophularia nodosa
Figwort

A clump-forming perennial with unusual maroon and yellow flowers which are abundant in nectar, one of the best species for attracting butterflies, bees, other insects and birds.

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Silene hookeri NCG 259 Silene hookeri
Hooker's campion

Not just any campion! Low-growing hummocks of furry leaves from which starry flowers in shades of pink raise their heads. Needs some TLC, but much recommended.

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Silene latifolia NCG 496 Silene latifolia
White campion, Cuckoo flower, Thunder-flower, White robin

Description coming soon.

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Silene latifolia x dioica NCG 650 Silene latifolia x dioica
Pink campion

A hybrid of white and red campion. Syn. Silene x hampeana

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Silene syn. Lychnis chalcedonica NCG 431 Silene syn. Lychnis chalcedonica
Maltese Cross, Scarlet Lightning, Catchfly

A lovely addition at the back of the hot bed, this tall, robust, long-lived perennial is a traditional cottage garden plant that has been grown and enjoyed for many generations. Rich red clusters of flowers on tall stems. There is a tendency for the plants to lose their lower leaves…

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Silene syn. Lychnis cognata NCG 184 Silene syn. Lychnis cognata
Orange Catchfly

This unique plant, which originates from Asia, is a delight! Rarely will you find such a brightly-coloured shade-tolerating plant. It produces a succession of vivid, tangerine blooms, about 4cm across, throughout the summer, followed by attractive seedpods. The foliage is light-green in colour, which further serves to brighten up shady…

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Silene syn. Lychnis coronaria atrosanguinea NCG 051 Silene syn. Lychnis coronaria atrosanguinea
Rose Campion

Contrasting strongly with the soft, grey-green, downy leaves, the mass of vibrant magenta blooms on this popular cottage garden plant will really hit you between the eyes! I have found that if stems are cut right back after the first flush of flowers in spring, the plants will bloom again…

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Sisyrinchium  bermudiana Syn. angustifolium NCG 044 Sisyrinchium bermudiana Syn. angustifolium
Blue-eyed Grass

Dainty deep blue, star-shaped flowers with yellow throats on short, straight stems above stiff, grass-like foliage. Very pretty at the front of the border.

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Sisyrinchium striatum NCG 202 Sisyrinchium striatum
Pale yellow-eyed-grass, Satin flower

Small pale yellow flowers with deeper yellow eyes on spikes above soft, greyish-green, sword-shaped leaves. Although strictly speaking a perennial, this plant seeds itself happily and the younger plants develop quickly and are often more attractive.

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Smyrnium perfoliatum NCG 460 Smyrnium perfoliatum
Yellow Alexanders

Resembling euphorbia or bupleurum - a very pretty woodland plant that can take two to three years to come to full maturity. More info coming later...

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Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Cherry' NCG 487 Solanum lycopersicum 'Black Cherry'
Tomato 'Black Cherry'

This tomato variety produces masses of small, deep, purplish-red to mahoganiy-brown, sweet and juicy fruits. Perfect for the simplest of tomato salads - just slice or quarter and sprinkle on balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt, plenty of freshly ground pepper and perhaps a little finely sliced red onion scattered…

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Solanum lycopersicum 'Brandywine Black' (Organic) NCG 486 Solanum lycopersicum 'Brandywine Black' (Organic)
Tomato 'Brandywine Black' (Heirloom)

Like other beefsteak tomatoes, this heirloom variety produces large, frequently irregular-shaped fruits, but is unusual in that it has potato-leaved foliage. The tomatoes can vary somewhat in colour, usually a rosy hue, sometimes green-shouldered, but they are renowned for their exceptional flavour.

NOTE: These are externally sourced, organic…

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Solanum lycopersicum 'Gardener's Delight' (Organic) NCG 866 Solanum lycopersicum 'Gardener's Delight' (Organic)
Tomato 'Gardener's Delight' (Organic)

These bite-sized fruits are sweet, tangy and full of flavour - no wonder they are the reliable go-to for so many tomato-lovers!

NOTE: These are externally sourced, organic seeds.

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Solanum lycopersicum 'Il San Marzano Lungo' NCG 878 Solanum lycopersicum 'Il San Marzano Lungo'
Plum Tomato 'Il San Marzano Lungo'

Traditional Italian plum tomatoes - perfect for pasta sauces.NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Solanum lycopersicum 'Marmande' NCG 103 Solanum lycopersicum 'Marmande'
Tomato 'Marmande'

Medium-sized beefsteak-type tomatoes growing on sturdy vines. A wonderful, full flavour... an essential ingredient for authentic Mediterranean-style recipes and salads!

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Solanum lycopersicum 'Sun Gold' NCG 106 Solanum lycopersicum 'Sun Gold'
Tomato 'Sun Gold'

The small, golden yellow fruits are sweet and juicy. It's just as well that they fruit prolifically, because it is difficult to pass by the greeenhouse in summer without snacking!

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Soleirolia syn. Helxine  soleirolii NCG 804 Soleirolia syn. Helxine soleirolii
Mind-your-own-business, Baby's tears

A mat-forming, creeping perennial with tiny round leaves. It spreads rapidly so needs to be sited carefully, but does have its uses. Some sources describe it as tender, but mine has thrived in the passageway down the side of my house for 20 years! But it is perfectly happy as…

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Solidago canadensis NCG 872 Solidago canadensis
Goldenrod

A useful, drought-tolerant plant for late summer and early autumn colour, bearing dense plumes of tiny bright yellow flowers on erect stems a metre or more high. Can be invasive, so best cut hard back before the plants set seed.

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Sophora tetraptera NCG 581 Sophora tetraptera
Large-leaved kowhai, New Zealand laburnum

A very attractive small, semi-evergreen tree, native to New Zealand. Produces masses of pendulous, waxy, yellow blooms in spring. Needs a sheltered spot (against a wall is ideal) and full sun to grow as a tree, because although it is hardy to -15C/5F, it can be knocked back somewhat by…

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Sparaxis tricolor, mixed NCG 614 Sparaxis tricolor, mixed
Harlequin flower, mixed

Originating from South Africa, the harlequin flower is a very showy choice for containers in late Spring. All the flowers, which are not long-lived but appear in succession to provide a long flowering period, have a dark halo around a yellow centre, but the colour of the outside of the…

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Stachys byzantina syn. lanata NCG 414 Stachys byzantina syn. lanata
Lamb's-ear, Woolly hedgenettle

Description coming soon.

NOTE: Depending on season, plants, when available, may be trimmed back and/or barerooted for shipping. In this case they will look untidy, but will soon produce fresh foliage.

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Symphyotrichum pilosum var. pringlei NCG 602 Symphyotrichum pilosum var. pringlei
White aster, White Michaelmas daisy

Copious small, white, narrow-petalled, daisy-like flowers with yellow centres adorn this aster in autumn, on tall, wiry stems clothed in small leaves.

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Symphyotrichum Syn. Aster novae-angliae 'Violetta' NCG 390 Symphyotrichum Syn. Aster novae-angliae 'Violetta'
New England Aster 'Violetta'

This tall, striking aster is exquisite... the picture does not really do it justice. It produces masses of deep-purple, single flowers about 3.5cm in diameter from late summer and well into autumn. It is loved by pollinating insects. Also a good cut flower. Much recommended! I cannot guarantee that seed,…

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Symphytum orientale NCG 763 Symphytum orientale
White comfrey

Unlike its cousin, S. officinale, the flowers of this useful plant are pure white. It makes a wonderful fertiliser and, being semi-evergreen, leaves can be added to the compost heap throughout most of the year. It can also be used as a mulch and a liquid fertiliser can be made…

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Symphytum x hidcotense 'Hidcote Blue' NCG 421 Symphytum x hidcotense 'Hidcote Blue'
Comfrey 'Hidcote Blue'

Symphytum 'Hidcote Blue' produces branching stems bearing mid-green, rather coarse, foliage. Clusters of red buds appear in late spring, maturing to pale blue and then white. The foliage is mid-green and rather coarse. Best planted where it will always be required, as it is difficult to completely remove once established.…

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Syringa microphylla NCG 359 Syringa microphylla
Littleleaf Lilac

A diminutive version of the familiar lilac, with small leaves and loose, sweetly-scented clusters of tiny, purple-pink flowers in spring. More often than not, flowers continue to appear throughout the summer and into early autumn. Although best sited in full sun, it will generally cope well with part shade. More info...

Syringa reticulata subsp. pekinensis NCG 360 Syringa reticulata subsp. pekinensis
Peking lilac, Chinese tree lilac

This attractive, small tree or large shrub, originating from northern China, has a rounded habit and bears fragrant, creamy-white flowers in mid- to late-Spring which are attractive to pollinating insects.

NOTE: Externally sourced seeds.

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Tagetes tenuifolia 'Starfire Mixed' NCG 052 Tagetes tenuifolia 'Starfire Mixed'
Mexican Marigold 'Starfire Mixed'

The masses of yellow, orange and vermillion flowers produced throughout the summer are not only very pretty but an extremely useful 'companion' plant. Since growing them at the base of my greenhouse tomatoes aphid are a thing of the past! Tagetes are suitable for planters and baskets or the front…

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Tanacetum parthenium NCG 217 Tanacetum parthenium
Feverfew

Hundreds of tiny little chrysanthemum-like flowers, white with a yellow centre, adorn this popular cottage garden plant. The stems are strong and erect, with mid-green, lobed leaves.

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Tellima grandiflora NCG 347 Tellima grandiflora
Fringe cups

A lovely woodland plant with a rosette of light-green round, lobed foliage and slender stems bearing insignificant, but nonetheless attractive, downward-pointing bell-shaped flowers down their length, sometimes creamy yellow, sometimes tinged with pink.

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Teucrium hircanicum 'Purple Tails' NCG 065 Teucrium hircanicum 'Purple Tails'
Caucasian Germander 'Purple Tails'

Deep pink flower spikes with purple bracts from early summer to autumn, on erect stems rise above crinkled rich green basal foliage. Cut back after first flush to encourage new blooms. Although it prefers moist, free-draining soil, this plant is drought tolerant.

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Thalictrum aquilegifolium NCG 615 Thalictrum aquilegifolium
French meadow rue, Greater meadow rue

This lovely plant has sprays of nodding, fluffy, pinkish-purple flowers with long stamens above intricately divided foliage, followed by attractive seed heads. A good cut flower.

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Tigridia pavonia NCG 045 Tigridia pavonia
Tiger Flower

This exotic bulb in shades of red, yellow, white and cream is happiest in full sun in moist, well drained soil (add grit to the planting hole if soil is heavy). Tigridia can endure the cold, but for complete safety, in all but the mildest areas it is advisable to…

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Tithonia rotundifolia 'Fiesta Del Sol' NCG 292 Tithonia rotundifolia 'Fiesta Del Sol'
Mexican Sunflower 'Fiesta Del Sol'

A smaller, more compact variety than her sister, 'Torch', this is a lovely addition towards the front of the hot bed! A profusion of rich orange flowers from late summer to autumn, on branching plants growing to about 30in/80cm tall. A good cut flower, although the hollow neck of the…

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Tithonia rotundifolia 'Torch' NCG 046 Tithonia rotundifolia 'Torch'
Mexican Sunflower 'Torch'

A dynamic plant for the hot bed! A profusion of rich orange to vermillion flowers from late summer to autumn, on large, branching plants up to 6ft/2m. A good cut flower, although the hollow neck of the cut blooms can be a little prone to sudden collapse, particularly if deprived…

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Trachelium caeruleum 'Pallas' AGM NCG 441 Trachelium caeruleum 'Pallas' AGM
Blue throatwort

Although a perennial, this stunning plant is usually grown as an annual, as it will not withstand frost. It forms a bushy mound of small leaves from which rise flower stems topped with large umbels composed of many tiny mauve flowers. A wonderful cut flower - much recommended!

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