Category: Plants in focus

So many plants looking fabulous on the nursery it was a job to pick a highlight for this edition. We’ve gone for two Geum, commonly known as Wood Avens. Part of the Cocktail series, Geum ‘Mai Tai’ (above) produces gorgeous, pink-flushed apricot, semi-double flowers above lush foliage. These flowers are carried on dark red stems, making it a standout cultivar. Equally as good in a container as well as the border.Ht. 45cm x Spr. 40cm. Geum ‘Scarlet Tempest’ (below), a relatively new cultivar.

As you can see from the photo it does exactly what it says on the tin! This variety is a very rare and long-flowering variety, with the narrow petalled star-shaped white flowers fading to pale pink and held over lovely, pewter-flushed, green leaves. Flowering from December-April. Ideally planted in part-shade in the border and equally as good in a container. Ht. 35cm x Spr. 45cm.

We think it is such an underrated plant. Our Nepeta nuda ‘Annes Choice’ (left) and Nepeta nuda ‘Purple Cat’ (right) are looking splendid at the nursery at the moment. Why underrated? Is there any other Nepeta that grows to 120cm with rigid stems that don’t fall over? This could be your find of 2024. Just brilliant as a mid to back of border plant. Originating from Iran, plant it in full sun and watch it flower from June to September, with regular deadheading. It creates a haze of delicate,