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NCG 639
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Agrostemma githago Syn. nicaeense
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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. |
NCG 302
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Alcea rosea Ex. 'Jet Black'
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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… |
NCG 005
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Alcea rosea, mixed
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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… |
NCG 590
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Alcea rugosa | |
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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… |
NCG 451
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Alonsoa warscewiczii syn. meridionalis | |
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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… |
NCG 088
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Ammi majus
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False Bishop's Weed, Herb William, Bullwort
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… |
NCG 188
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Antirrhinum majus Ex. tall, red
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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. |
NCG 283
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Antirrhinum majus ssp. tortuosum
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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. |
NCG 008
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Antirrhinum majus, mixed
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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… |
NCG 010
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Argemone mexicana
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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… |
NCG 091
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Barbarea verna
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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… |
NCG 207
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Bidens ferulifolia 'Golden Goddess'
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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… |
NCG 593
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Borago officinalis, Blue
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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… |
NCG 171
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Bupleurum rotundifolium 'Griffithii' | |
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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. |
NCG 049
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Calendula officinalis
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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… |
NCG 551
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Calendula officinalis 'Sunset Buff'
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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… |
NCG 626
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Capsicum annum, Ramiro
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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. |
NCG 100
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Capsicum annuum
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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. |
NCG 101
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Capsicum frutescens - Bird Eye
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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… |
NCG 094
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Cerinthe major var. purpurascens
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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. |
NCG 286
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Cleome hassleriana | |
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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! |
NCG 166
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Cobaea Scandens AGM
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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,… |
NCG 396
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Cobaea scandens f. Alba AGM
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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… |
NCG 017
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Consolida ajacis
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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!… |
NCG 816
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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Rose Bon Bon' | |
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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… |
NCG 887
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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Double Click Snow Puff' | |
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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… |
NCG 322
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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Mixed'
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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… |
NCG 815
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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Purity' | |
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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… |
NCG 811
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Cosmos bipinnatus 'Xanthos' | |
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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. |
NCG 395
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Cosmos bipinnatus Ex. 'Double Click Cranberries'
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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.… |
NCG 519
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Cosmos bipinnatus Ex. 'Fizzy Pink' | |
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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… |
NCG 019
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Cosmos bipinnatus Ex. Semi-Double White
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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… |
NCG 178
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Cosmos sulphureus 'Bright Lights'
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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.… |
NCG 301
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Craspedia globosa 'Drumstick' | |
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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. |
NCG 490
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Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis 'Hearts of Gold'
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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. |
NCG 102
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Cucurbita pepo 'Yellow Golden'
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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… |
NCG 625
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Cynara cardunculus
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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,… |
NCG 696
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Datura metel 'Blackcurrant Swirl'
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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!!! |
NCG 234
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Datura stramonium
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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!!!… |
NCG 599
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Delphinium requienii
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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… |
NCG 432
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Dianthus barbatus Ex. nigrescens 'Sooty' | |
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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. |
NCG 452
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Didiscus caeruleus, Lacy Series
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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. |
NCG 620
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Digitalis ferruginea gigantea 'Gelber Herold'
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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. |
NCG 692
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Digitalis grandiflora 'Carillon'
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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. |
NCG 223
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Digitalis grandiflora ambigua/macrantha AGM
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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. |
NCG 180
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Digitalis lutea
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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… |
NCG 455
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Digitalis obscura
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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… |
NCG 362
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Digitalis parviflora Jacq.
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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… |
NCG 447
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Digitalis purpurea
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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. |
NCG 346
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Digitalis purpurea 'Apricot'
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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. |
NCG 664
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Digitalis purpurea 'Pam's Choice'
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Foxglove 'Pam's Choice'
A two-toned foxglove, white with strongly contrasting, dark-maroon speckling in the throat. |
NCG 248
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Digitalis purpurea Ex. f. albiflora
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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… |
NCG 523
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Digitalis purpurea subsp. heywoodii 'Silver Cub'
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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. |
NCG 673
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Eccremocarpus syn. Calampelis scaber | |
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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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NCG 683
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Echium vulgare
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Viper's bugloss
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NCG 075
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Eschscholzia californica
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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.… |
NCG 475
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Eschscholzia californica Ex. 'White Linen'
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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… |
NCG 050
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Gazania rigens
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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. |
NCG 480
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Gypsophila elegans Mixed
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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. |
NCG 025
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Helianthus annuus, Giant
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Sunflower, Giant
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NCG 137
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Helichrysum bracteatum monstrosum Double Mixed | |
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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. |
NCG 054
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Hibiscus trionum
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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… |
NCG 026
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Hyoscyamus niger
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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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NCG 678
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Iberis umbellata | |
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Candytuft
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NCG 199
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Ipomoea 'Venice Pink'
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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… |
NCG 197
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Ipomoea Ex. 'Crimson Rambler'
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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. |
NCG 635
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Ipomoea purpurea Ex. 'Grandpa Otts'
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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. |
NCG 200
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Ipomoea quamoclit 'Red Feather'
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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. |
NCG 198
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Ipomoea tricolor syn. rubro-caerulea 'Heavenly Blue'
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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. |
NCG 027
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Ipomoea syn. Mina lobata Syn. versicolor 'Exotic Love' | |
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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… |
NCG 078
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Lathyrus belinensis 'Goldmine'
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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… |
NCG 033
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Lathyrus chloranthus
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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. |
NCG 268
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Lathyrus odoratus 'Cupani' | |
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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… |
NCG 504
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Lathyrus odoratus 'Painted Lady' | |
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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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NCG 786
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Lathyrus odoratus 'Prince of Orange' | |
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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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NCG 195
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Lathyrus odoratus 'Red Mix'
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Sweet Pea 'Red Mix'
A mixture of sweet peas collected from light, mid and dark-red flowered plants |
NCG 474
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Lathyrus odoratus 'Senator'
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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. |
NCG 214
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Lathyrus odoratus 'Wiltshire Ripple'
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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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NCG 383
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Lathyrus odoratus mixed | |
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NCG 443
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Lathyrus sativus var. albus
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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… |
NCG 032
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Lathyrus sativus var. azureus
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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… |
NCG 657
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Lavandula multifida | |
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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… |
NCG 344
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Linum grandiflorum var. rubrum
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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. |
NCG 034
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Linum usitatissimum
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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… |
NCG 035
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Lunaria annua
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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… |
NCG 652
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Lunaria annua var. albiflora syn. alba
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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… |
NCG 090
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Mimulus x hybridus, mixed | |
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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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NCG 528
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Nasturtium peregrinum | |
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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! |
NCG 189
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Nemophila discoides 'Total Eclipse' | |
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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. |
NCG 323
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Nicandra physalodes
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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… |
NCG 365
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Nicotiana alata 'Lime Green' AGM
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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… |
NCG 531
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Nicotiana alata (Syn. affinis) var. grandiflora
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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. |
NCG 099
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Nicotiana langsdorffii AGM
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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. |
NCG 038
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Nigella damascena 'Miss Jekyll'
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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. |
NCG 484
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Nigella damascena 'Mulberry Rose'
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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… |
NCG 380
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Nigella sativa
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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… |
NCG 479
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Ocimum basilicum 'Dark Opal' (Organic)
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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. |
NCG 209
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Ocimum basilicum 'Sweet Genovese' (Organic)
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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… |
NCG 470
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Oenothera biennis
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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. |
NCG 222
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Onopordum acanthium
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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… |
NCG 002
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Panicum elegans 'Frosted Explosion'
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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. |
NCG 036
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Papaver cambricum
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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. |
NCG 096
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Papaver rhoeas - various
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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. |
NCG 473
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Papaver somniferum, Ex. white, single
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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… |
NCG 040
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Papaver somniferum, red, single
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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. |
NCG 330
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Papaver somniferum, single, mauve
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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… |
NCG 153
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Petroselinum crispum var. crispum
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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… |
NCG 041
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Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum AGM
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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… |
NCG 208
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Phacelia Symphony
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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… |
NCG 042
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Ricinus communis 'Impala'
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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… |
NCG 079
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Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii 'Goldsturm'
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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. |
NCG 043
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Rudbeckia x hirta 'Caramel Mixed'
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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… |
NCG 453
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Salvia patens 'Oxford Blue' | |
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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. |
NCG 697
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Scabiosa atropurpurea 'Beaujolais Bonnets'
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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. |
NCG 051
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Silene syn. Lychnis coronaria atrosanguinea
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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… |
NCG 460
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Smyrnium perfoliatum | |
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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... |
NCG 486
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Solanum lycopersicum 'Brandywine Black' (Organic)
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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… |
NCG 103
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Solanum lycopersicum 'Marmande'
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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! |
NCG 106
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Solanum lycopersicum 'Sun Gold'
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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! |
NCG 052
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Tagetes tenuifolia 'Starfire Mixed'
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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… |
NCG 217
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Tanacetum parthenium
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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. |
NCG 292
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Tithonia rotundifolia 'Fiesta Del Sol' | |
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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… |
NCG 046
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Tithonia rotundifolia 'Torch'
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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… |
NCG 441
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Trachelium caeruleum 'Pallas' AGM
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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! |
NCG 089
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Verbascum thapsus
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Great Mullein, Aaron's Rod, Torches
This wildflower forms rosettes of grey-green, woolly leaves from which very tall spikes of clear yellow flowers grow in summer. Not only has this wildflower been used as a herbal remedy for thousands of years but dye can be extracted from it and the dried flower spikes can be made… |
NCG 393
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Verbena hybrida Mix | |
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Verbena, Mixed
Strictly speaking a short-lived perennial, but not fully hardy, so best treated as a half-hardy annual. Flowers are in shades including bright red, blue, rich peach and purple with a white eye. Plant en masse at the front of the border or in hanging baskets. |
NCG 413
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Veronica gentianoides
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Gentian speedwell
In summer, spikes of small, pale-blue flowers with striking purple veining appear above rosettes of attractive, glossy foliage. Best grown near the front of the border, where its intricate markings can be best appreciated! |
NCG 295
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Veronica longifolia (pink)
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Garden Speedwell, Pink
A much rarer form than the well known blue veronica, this variety is in pretty shades of pink. The spikes of tiny flowers appear from late spring until mid summer and make a good filler in flower arrangements. Cut plant back to 1 foot after flowering to encourage a new… |
NCG 062
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Viola 'Blackjack'
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Viola 'Blackjack'
This is probably a cross between Bowles' Black and a standard viola. Still, it is rich in colour and produces masses of small, midnight-blue flowers with yellow eyes. Very useful for front of border or in containers and hanging baskets. Cut back after first flush of flowering to encourage new… |
NCG 516
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Viola 'Bowles Black' | |
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Viola 'Bowles Black'
A very pretty viola that is usually hard to come by, with flowers which are deepest midnight-blue to almost black, with deep yellow eyes. Although strictly speaking a hardy perennial, best treated as a half-hardy annual. The seeds gathered from these plants were fertilised when almost all other violas in… |
NCG 637
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Viola wittrockiana 'Black Devil' | |
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A very dynamic viola with large blooms, near-black with golden eyes. Although strictly speaking a hardy perennial, best treated as a half-hardy annual. I have no other V. wittrockia varieties in the garden, but cannot guarantee that all will come true from my collected seeds - however in my experience… |
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NCG 527
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Zinnia elegans 'Polar Bear'
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Common zinnia, Elegant zinnia, Youth and old age 'Polar Bear'
A fast-growing half-hardy annual that will provide an abundance of flowers throughout the summer months and into autumn. The large, white blooms are much loved by pollinating insects and great for flower arrangements. |
NCG 385
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Zinnia elegans Mixed
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Common zinnia, Elegant zinnia, Youth and old age
A fast-growing half-hardy annual that will provide a wealth of colour throughout the summer months and into autumn. Large blooms in shades including pink, cerise, scarlet and orange. Much loved by pollinating insects and great for flower arranegments. |
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