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Hosta ‘Waterslide’ is a vigorous, eye-catching perennial valued for its broad, heart-shaped blue-green leaves with a strong, heavily corrugated texture. The foliage has a slightly waxy bloom when young, giving it a cool, glaucous tone that works beautifully in shaded planting schemes. As the season progresses, the leaves retain their colour well, creating a bold, calming presence in the garden.

This cultivar is best suited to partial or dappled shade, where it can develop its rich foliage without the risk of scorching. It performs particularly well in moisture-retentive, humus-rich soils that stay consistently damp but are well-drained. Once established, it forms a substantial clump, making it ideal for filling larger shaded borders, woodland gardens, or planting beneath shrubs and trees.

Hosta ‘Waterslide’ also works well as a feature plant in containers, especially in sheltered courtyards or shaded patios. Its strong leaf structure gives it good resistance to slug damage compared to thinner-leaved varieties, although some protection may still be needed in wet conditions.

In summer, pale lavender flowers rise above the foliage on tall stems, attracting bees and adding vertical interest. Overall, it is a reliable, architectural hosta that brings texture, depth, and a lush woodland feel to shaded garden spaces.

Hosta Sum and Substance is a popular variety of Hosta, known for its impressive size and striking foliage. This herbaceous perennial is often chosen for its large, heart-shaped leaves, which can grow up to 60cm in length. The leaves are a vibrant chartreuse or golden green, depending on the light conditions, with a slightly glossy finish that adds to their appeal. As the plant matures, the foliage can form an imposing mound that can reach over 1 metre in diameter, making it an ideal focal point in shaded gardens.

This hosta hrives in partial to full shade, though it can tolerate some sun, especially in cooler climates, which can bring out a more golden hue in the leaves. However, too much direct sunlight may cause the leaves to scorch. It prefers moist, well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, will keep the plant looking its best.

In mid to late summer it produces tall flower spikes, often up to 1 metre in height, bearing lavender, funnel-shaped flowers. These blooms are attractive to pollinators such as bees and can provide additional interest in the garden, though the foliage remains the primary attraction.

Relatively low-maintenance, this Hosta is hardy in the UK climate, tolerating temperatures as low as -15°C. It's also resistant to pests like slugs and snails, which often plague other Hosta varieties. Due to its size it works well as a specimen plant or as a backdrop in larger garden borders. Its bold foliage contrasts well with finer-textured plants, making it a versatile and valuable addition to any shaded garden.

This plant is specifically shaped into a ball with very dense foliage. It is exceptionally large for this type of plant. 

Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia' is a dense, neat and tidy, evergreen shrub or small tree of compact, rounded to conical habit, with narrow, long, glossy, dark green leaves. Young stems are vivid red. Small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers bloom in late spring or early summer and are followed by dark purple berries in autumn. Attractive to pollinators and birds. Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia' is adaptable to a wide range of soils and conditions. It thrives in fertile, moist, well-drained soil, and grows well in full sun or partial shade. It is resistant to frost, but doesn’t’ like very exposed sites, therefore, needs to be sheltered from strong winds. Low maintenance plant, tolerant of hard pruning. Portuguese Laurel 'Angustifolia', differs from the classic variety for its greater density and narrower leaves. It is, therefore, superb for formal hedges. It forms great windbreaks and privacy screens. It reduces noise and pollution. It can be grown as a topiary tree.

Hibiscus Syriacus, commonly known as Rose of Sharon, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the mallow family. Native to China and Korea, this plant is widely cultivated for its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, forming a dense, rounded crown. Its bark is grayish-brown, and the leaves are dark green, lobed, and serrated. In fall, the foliage turns yellow before dropping. The flowers of Hibiscus Syriacus come in a range of colors, including white, pink, red, lavender, and blue. They have a diameter of 2-4 inches and typically last for only one day. However, the plant produces numerous flowers over a long period, providing a colorful display for weeks. Hibiscus Syriacus is a relatively low-maintenance plant and can grow in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-drained. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. The plant is also drought-tolerant once established, but it benefits from regular watering during dry periods.

Laurus nobilis, or Bay Laurel, is a dense, compact, slow-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree of pyramidal habit, dark grey bark, and aromatic, narrowly ovate, leathery, dark green leaves used in cooking, especially in French and Mediterranean cuisine. Clusters of small, yellowish flowers bloom in spring and are followed by glossy, dark purple, berry-like drupes. Bay Laurel can grow in a wide range of soils, as long as they are well-drained, but thrives in fertile, moist, and well-drained soils. It prefers full sun, but doesn’t mind partial shade. It is tolerant of salt, therefore, suitable for coastal areas. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. In colder climates, it needs to be grown in containers and brought inside during the winter. Laurus nobilis is a wonderful, long-lived shrub, perfect as a specimen plant or planted in groups. Suitable for growing in containers, great as a topiary, and excellent for hedges and screens. Essential for herb garden.

Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’, or Eder ‘Eva’, is a large, upright, deciduous shrub with deeply dissected, lacy, dark purple, almost black, leaves, rich red in autumn, and flattened panicles of tiny, lemon-scented, white to pale pink flowers in summer, followed by edible, purple-black berries in early autumn. Attractive to birds and bees. Elder 'Eva' tolerates a wide range of soils, but prefers medium to wet, moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soils. It grows best in full sun, but can withstand partial shade. Low maintenance, but unpruned plants can become unattractive in appearance. Adaptable to coastal and urban conditions. Tough and resilient plant. Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’, with its unusual foliage, and attractive flowers and edible berries, is an excellent landscape plant. It is perfect as an accent shrub or background plant in informal, cottage, urban, and coastal gardens. Great for shrub borders and informal hedges and screens. Suitable for growing in containers.

Prunus laurocerasus ‘Novita’ is a vigorous, fast-growing, tree-like, evergreen shrub with a dense crown, large, obovate, very glossy leaves, soft green when young and dark green when mature. It rarely flowers when young, but once established, it flowers abundantly unless pruned. Flowers are small and white and followed by large, black berries. Prunus laurocerasus ‘Novita’ grows best in slightly deep, fertile, acidic, moist, well-drained soil. It prefers full sun to partial shade, but is tolerant of full shade as well. It is resistant of frost and can withstand very low temperatures. Once established, it is tolerant of drought, salt and air pollution. May suffer from chlorosis when planted in poor, shallow, chalky soil. Low maintenance plant, tolerant of hard pruning. Generally, pest-free. Cherry Laurel ‘Novita’ is an extremely resilient variety of laurel, perfect for hedges and screens, especially in shady areas, in informal, cottage, coastal, and woodland gardens. Great for banks and slopes or as a ground cover.

Acer palmatum dissectum, commonly known as the laceleaf Japanese maple, is a popular ornamental tree renowned for its intricate, finely divided foliage. This deciduous shrub or small tree is part of the Aceraceae family and originates from Japan, Korea, and China. It typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 meters (6 to 10 feet) with a similar spread, making it a perfect choice for small gardens and container planting.

The leaves of Acer palmatum dissectum are deeply lobed and serrated, resembling delicate lace. Throughout the seasons, the foliage transitions from a vibrant green in spring and summer to spectacular shades of red, orange, and purple in autumn, providing year-round interest. The tree's cascading, weeping habit adds an elegant and graceful element to any landscape design.

Acer palmatum dissectum prefers a position in partial shade with well-drained, moist soil. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape. This tree is also known for its resilience to pests and diseases. Its compact size and striking appearance make it an excellent choice for adding structure and color to garden borders, patios, and rockeries in British gardens.

Laurus nobilis, or Bay Laurel, is a dense, compact, slow-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree of pyramidal habit, dark grey bark, and aromatic, narrowly ovate, leathery, dark green leaves used in cooking, especially in French and Mediterranean cuisine. Clusters of small, yellowish flowers bloom in spring and are followed by glossy, dark purple, berry-like drupes. Bay Laurel can grow in a wide range of soils, as long as they are well-drained, but thrives in fertile, moist, and well-drained soils. It prefers full sun, but doesn’t mind partial shade. It is tolerant of salt, therefore, suitable for coastal areas. Generally, pest-free and disease-free. In colder climates, it needs to be grown in containers and brought inside during the winter. Laurus nobilis is a wonderful, long-lived shrub, perfect as a specimen plant or planted in groups. Suitable for growing in containers, great as a topiary, and excellent for hedges and screens. Essential for herb garden.

Magnolia grandiflora 'Galissonniere' is an exotic evergreen tree of conical to spreading pyramidal habit, with thick, leathery, glossy green leaves, velvety haired and rusty-brown beneath. Very large, saucer-shaped, creamy-white flowers with purple stamens bloom in summer and early autumn. Their fragrance is strong and pleasant.

Magnolia grandiflora 'Galissonniere' is easily grown in a wide range of soils, but prefers hummus-rich, slightly acidic, moist, and well-drained soils. Once established, it can withstand some drought. It thrives in full sun and partial shade.

It has very good cold tolerance, but needs to be sheltered from harsh, dry winds. Low maintenance, it doesn’t require much pruning. Magnolia grandiflora 'Galissonniere' is a French variety of Southern Magnolia cultivated 150 years ago. It’s an excellent ornamental tree, often grown against the wall, rarely free-standing. Great for informal, cottage, woodland, and urban gardens. Excellent for beds and borders, informal hedges and screens, and for growing in containers.

Malus ‘Neville Copeman’, or Purple Crab Apple, is a medium-sized, upright, deciduous tree with irregular, wide, ovoid, half-open crown, and attractive foliage – purple when young and green flushed with purple later. Lovely, lilac-pink flowers bloom in spring and large, tasteful, waxy, purplish-red fruits ripe in autumn. Fruits are great for making jams, jellies and chutneys. Malus ‘Neville Copeman’ can grow well in almost any type of soil, as long as it is well-drained, but thrives in moderately fertile, deep, moist, well-drained soils, in full sun or partial shade. Once established, it is resistant to drought. It can withstand frost, wind, and urban pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require much pruning. It is self-fertile, therefore, useful as a pollinator for other apple trees. Purple Crab Apple ‘Neville Copeman’ is popular for its attractive foliage, flowers, and large crab apples. It is great as a specimen plant in smaller gardens, suitable for urban areas, and for growing in containers.

Laburnum anagyroides 'Yellow Rocket' is a compact, upright deciduous tree renowned for its striking display of golden-yellow, pea-like flowers that cascade in pendulous racemes during May and early June. Reaching approximately 4 meters in height and 1.5 meters in spread over 10–20 years, its narrow, columnar habit makes it ideal for smaller gardens or as a vertical accent in larger landscapes.

The tree's trifoliate, light green leaves provide a lush backdrop to its vibrant blooms, which are highly attractive to bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity. 'Yellow Rocket' thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils, tolerating a range of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand.

The Hosta Sun Mouse is a charming and compact perennial plant, ideal for adding a touch of elegance to shaded gardens. Belonging to the Asparagaceae family, this miniature hosta variety is known for its delightful foliage and easy maintenance, making it a favourite among gardeners.

Sun Mouse is characterised by its small, heart-shaped leaves that measure about 2-3 inches in length. The foliage boasts a vibrant, lime-green hue, often with a slight yellow tinge, particularly when exposed to a bit more sunlight. This distinctive colour adds a splash of brightness to darker garden corners.

In terms of growth habit, the Hosta Sun Mouse forms a dense, low-growing mound, typically reaching only 6-8 inches in height and spreading about 12-16 inches wide. Its compact size makes it perfect for border edges, rock gardens, or as a delightful ground cover. Despite its diminutive stature, Sun Mouse is quite resilient.

During the summer months, this hosta variety produces small, lavender-coloured flowers on slender stems that rise above the foliage. While not as showy as the leaves, these blooms add a subtle touch of beauty and attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.

The Hosta Sun Mouse prefers partial to full shade and thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with consistent moisture. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal care once established. Gardeners should watch for common pests like slugs and snails, which can occasionally mar the leaves.

Overall, the Hosta Sun Mouse is a delightful addition to any garden, offering vibrant foliage, a neat growth habit, and ease of care. Its compact size and striking colour make it a versatile choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Hosta Francee is an attractive, fast-growing, clump-forming, deciduous perennial of dense, arching, mounding habit and broad, heart-shaped, strongly-veined, dark green leaves with white margins. The funnel-shaped, white to pale lavender flowers emerge on long flower scapes above the foliage in mid-summer. Hosta Francee grows best in organically rich, moist, well-drained soils in partial to full shade. It likes some morning sun and consistent moisture.

Once established, it can withstand dry shade. It needs to be sheltered from cold, dry winds. Low maintenance plant. Slugs and snails may damage the foliage. Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Hosta Francee is a beautiful, ornamental, low maintenance plant, perfect for shade gardens, especially good-looking in groups or massed. Great as a background plant, a groundcover, for mixed beds and borders, under the shrubs and roses, or for growing in containers. Suitable for informal, cottage, woodland, and urban gardens.

Malus ‘Neville Copeman’, or Purple Crab Apple, is a medium-sized, upright, deciduous tree with irregular, wide, ovoid, half-open crown, and attractive foliage – purple when young and green flushed with purple later. Lovely, lilac-pink flowers bloom in spring and large, tasteful, waxy, purplish-red fruits ripe in autumn. Fruits are great for making jams, jellies and chutneys. Malus ‘Neville Copeman’ can grow well in almost any type of soil, as long as it is well-drained, but thrives in moderately fertile, deep, moist, well-drained soils, in full sun or partial shade. Once established, it is resistant to drought. It can withstand frost, wind, and urban pollution. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require much pruning. It is self-fertile, therefore, useful as a pollinator for other apple trees. Purple Crab Apple ‘Neville Copeman’ is popular for its attractive foliage, flowers, and large crab apples. It is great as a specimen plant in smaller gardens, suitable for urban areas, and for growing in containers.

Hosta Big Daddy is a slow-growing, clump-forming perennial with an attractive, large, blue-green foliage. Very ornamental, broad, rounded, textured, blue-green leaves retain their beautiful colour most of the growing season if grown in shady conditions. White to pale lavender, bell-shaped flowers appear on tall flower scapes in summer and rise above the foliage.

Hosta Big Daddy thrives organically rich, moist, well-drained soils in partial to full shade. It likes some morning sun and consistent moisture. Once established, it can withstand dry shade. It needs to be sheltered from cold, dry winds. Low maintenance plant. Slugs and snails may damage the foliage, but it is more slug resistant than other hosta varieties. Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. One of the best blue hostas and a perfect plant for shady areas. Great as a background plant, for beds and borders, mixed with other perennials, or planted under the shrubs and roses. Suitable for informal, cottage, woodland, and urban gardens.

Euonymous alatus is a large, dense, spreading deciduous shrub with oval, green leaves, that turn spectacularly scarlet-red in autumn. Tiny, inconspicuous, greenish flowers bloom in spring and summer, and are followed by highly ornamental purple and red fruits in autumn and throughout the winter. Bare winter branches are attractive because of their “corky” wings. Euonymous alatus can grow in a wide range of soils, but thrives in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils. It prefers full sun and the best leaf colour is achieved in full sun, but tolerates partial shade. Generally, pest-free. Attractive to birds. It can withstand severe pruning, and has a tendency to be invasive. Euonymous alatus is a stunning shrub with beautiful fiery red autumn foliage, hence the name Burning Bush. It is perfect as a specimen plant, great for informal hedges and screens, wall-side borders, and shrub borders. Best-looking when planted against evergreens.

Cordyline indivisa, or Mountain cabbage tree, is a slow-growing, palm-like, evergreen tree with long, pointed, lance-shaped, arching, glossy, blue-green, leaves with orange midrib. Clusters of small, fragrant, greenish-white to purple, star-shaped flowers bloom in summer and are followed by tiny purple fruits. Young plants have a graceful rosette of arching leaves with no trunk. Cordyline indivisa grows best in fertile, organically rich, moist, well-drained soils. It likes full sun to light shade. In colder climates, it should be grown in containers and brought inside during the winter. Once established it is tolerant of drought. A sub-tropical plant, adaptable to coastal conditions. Low maintenance plant, doesn’t require pruning. Mountain cabbage tree is a nice, tropical-looking plant, perfect for Mediterranean-style, coastal, and rock and gravel gardens. It can also be a nice addition to cottage and urban gardens. Excellent for growing in containers and great in pots as house plants.

Magnolia Susan is a beautiful flowering tree known for its stunning blooms and attractive foliage. This deciduous tree is a member of the magnolia family and is a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers for its showy flowers that come in shades of pink and purple. The Magnolia Susan typically grows to a height of 10-15 feet and can spread up to 12 feet wide. It has a dense, upright growth habit and produces large, tulip-shaped flowers in mid to late spring. The flowers are about 5 inches across and have a sweet fragrance that fills the air. The leaves of the Magnolia Susan are glossy and dark green, with a slightly wavy margin. They are oval-shaped and can grow up to 6 inches long. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful golden yellow before dropping for the winter.

Magnolia × soulangeana is a superb choice for gardens seeking spring impact and graceful structure. This deciduous small tree or large shrub produces magnificent goblet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white, and soft purple, which appear on bare branches in early to mid-spring. The floral display is both dramatic and elegant, making it an outstanding specimen tree for lawns, front gardens, or sheltered borders.

It thrives best in full sun or light dappled shade and prefers fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. A sheltered position is ideal, as late frosts can sometimes damage emerging blooms. Once established, it is hardy and relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal pruning beyond shaping or removing crossing branches.

With a broad, spreading habit and eventual height of around 4–6 metres, it suits medium-sized gardens particularly well. Underplanting with bulbs or shade-tolerant perennials enhances its seasonal appeal. Offering strong architectural form, reliable flowering, and manageable growth, it remains one of the most popular and rewarding ornamental trees for UK gardens.