Shrubs

Lavandula X intermedia, commonly known as lavandin, is an exceptional hybrid plant resulting from the cross between Lavandula angustifolia (English lavender) and Lavandula latifolia (spike lavender). This perennial shrub is highly regarded for its robust growth, prolific blooming, and the delightful fragrance that characterises its blossoms.

Lavandin plants typically grow larger and more vigorously than true lavender, reaching heights of up to 90 cm (3 feet) and a spread of about the same. The foliage is evergreen, displaying narrow, grey-green leaves that are finely toothed and covered with a fine, downy texture. This foliage not only adds to the plant’s aesthetic appeal but also emits a subtle fragrance when brushed against.

The flower spikes of Lavandula × intermedia are long and slender, adorned with densely packed blooms that appear from mid-summer to early autumn. The flowers are usually a vibrant lavender-purple, although some varieties may exhibit shades of blue or white. These blossoms are not only visually striking but also highly aromatic, exuding a strong, sweet scent that is a hallmark of the plant.

Lavandin is prized for its essential oils, which are more abundant than those of true lavender, making it a preferred choice for commercial production. The oil extracted from lavandin is used extensively in aromatherapy, perfumery, and the production of soaps and cosmetics due to its potent and long-lasting fragrance.

In addition to its olfactory appeal, Lavandula × intermedia is also favoured for its hardiness and ease of cultivation. It thrives in well-drained soils with full sun exposure and demonstrates a remarkable resistance to drought and pests. These attributes make it an ideal choice for garden borders, rockeries, and as a feature plant in both formal and informal garden settings.

Overall, Lavandula × intermedia stands out as a versatile and resilient plant that combines ornamental beauty with practical uses, enriching gardens and commercial products alike with its distinctive qualities.

Lavandula × intermedia 'Phenomenal' is a highly esteemed variety of lavender renowned for its robustness and striking visual appeal. This hybrid, also known as Lavandin, is a cross between Lavandula angustifolia and Lavandula latifolia. 'Phenomenal' is particularly celebrated for its exceptional tolerance to varying weather conditions, including humidity, heat, and cold, making it a versatile choice for gardens in diverse climates.

The plant is characterised by its vigorous growth and uniform, mounded shape, typically reaching a height and spread of approximately 60-90 cm (2-3 feet). It boasts silvery-green foliage that retains its colour throughout the year, providing year-round interest. The long, slender stems are topped with an abundance of fragrant, deep violet-blue flower spikes that bloom from mid-summer to early autumn. These flowers are not only visually stunning but also attract a plethora of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.

One of the notable features of 'Phenomenal' is its strong resistance to common lavender ailments such as root and foliar diseases, which can plague other varieties. This resilience, coupled with its low maintenance requirements, makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. The plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, demonstrating drought tolerance once established.

In addition to its ornamental value, 'Phenomenal' lavender is highly prized for its aromatic properties. The flowers can be harvested and dried for use in a variety of applications, from potpourris and sachets to culinary dishes and essential oil production. The strong, pleasing fragrance of the plant adds a sensory delight to gardens and landscapes.

Overall, Lavandula × intermedia 'Phenomenal' is a versatile, hardy, and beautiful addition to any garden, offering both aesthetic and practical benefits with minimal effort.

Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens,' commonly known as Black Mondo Grass, is an ornamental perennial plant renowned for its striking dark foliage and distinctive appearance. This cultivar belongs to the Asparagaceae family and is native to Japan, where it thrives in woodlands and shaded areas. In the United Kingdom, it has gained popularity as a garden ornamental for its unique aesthetic qualities.

The most notable feature of Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens' is its almost-black, strappy leaves that grow in dense clumps. The rich ebony colouration intensifies as the plant matures, creating a captivating contrast with other plants in the garden. During the summer months, it produces small, insignificant bell-shaped, pale pinkish-white flowers on delicate stems. However, it is primarily grown for its striking foliage rather than its flowers.

Black Mondo Grass is a low-maintenance plant, making it an ideal choice for gardeners looking to add drama to their landscapes without excessive effort. It thrives in partial to full shade, making it suitable for shaded borders, rock gardens, or even as ground cover beneath trees. This plant is adaptable to various soil types, provided they are well-drained, and it is relatively drought-tolerant once established.

When it comes to care, Black Mondo Grass requires minimal attention. Pruning is optional but can help maintain its tidy appearance. It is generally resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a hassle-free addition to any garden. In colder regions of the UK, some winter protection, such as a layer of mulch, may be beneficial to ensure its survival.

Azalea Japonica 'Vuyk's Scarlet' is a stunning and popular cultivar of the evergreen Azalea genus, known for its vibrant and eye-catching blooms. This particular variety, 'Vuyk's Scarlet,' is cherished by garden enthusiasts for its distinctive scarlet-red flowers that add a burst of colour to gardens in late spring to early summer.

The Azalea Japonica species is native to Asia, particularly Japan and Korea, and 'Vuyk's Scarlet' is a testament to the beauty and diversity within this group. It typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 centimetres) with a similar spread, making it a compact and manageable addition to gardens, borders, or even as a potted plant. Its dark green, glossy leaves provide an elegant backdrop for the striking scarlet blossoms, creating a visually appealing contrast.

The flowers of 'Vuyk's Scarlet' are trumpet-shaped and feature five distinct petals. These deep crimson-red blooms are known for their durability and longevity, often lasting for several weeks. Their intense colouration makes them stand out in any landscape, whether used as a focal point or as part of a mixed planting scheme.

Caring for Azalea Japonica 'Vuyk's Scarlet' is relatively straightforward. It thrives in well-drained, acidic soil and prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. Pruning can be done after flowering to maintain the plant's shape and encourage new growth.

This Azalea cultivar not only adds an explosion of colour to gardens but also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a delightful choice for wildlife-friendly landscapes. 'Vuyk's Scarlet' is a versatile and visually striking plant that exemplifies the timeless beauty of the Azalea Japonica species, making it a cherished addition to gardens throughout the United Kingdom.