I’m amazed at how much color there is in the garden at the moment, especially as there seemed to be very little back in August. Of course some of the color is courtesy of the autumn leaves and various berries but there is still a significant floral contribution. This hydrangea is one of those supermarket finds from a year or so ago which to be honest I had forgotten about until I got to the top of the garden today and spotted it. Such a lovely combination of dark leaves and flower – I think I need to find a better location to show it off better.
Salvia involucrata boutin
Part of the reason I struggle to get to the top of the garden is this Salvia which is going for world domination – its huge. So much so that I have left it in situ the last few winters with just a mulch to protect it roots.
Salvia ‘Phyllis Fancy’
I actually prefer Salvia ‘Phyllis Fancy’ as the flowers are more delicate and I like the two-tone effect which brings a special light to the border.
Aster lateriflorus ‘Lady in Black’
Although the majority of the asters have been moved to the front garden there are still a few adding to the color in the back garden. I think Lady in Black is my favorite aster, it has wonderful dark stems and whatever the weather it remains upright, just wafting around in the wind.
Symphytrochium novae-angliae ‘St Michaels’
Symphytrochium novae-angliae ‘St Michaels’ is a good strong purple and I like the larger daisy flowers; I also like it as it is named after a local hospice. This is also doing well in the RHS trial of Symphytrochium novae-angliae which I am acting as recorder for at the local Old Court Nursery.
I do like Japanese Anemones, this pale pink one is a new addition to the garden and lightens a very green border.
Kirengeshoma palmata
The Japanese Anemone is adjacent to the Kirengeshoma palmata – that pink and yellow combination abhorred by many but to be honest I quite like; well if it’s the right pink and the right yellow.
Colchicum ‘Dick Trotter’
The second group of Colchicums are flowering. I bought the corms for these at the Malvern Autumn Show last month. I do think Colchicums are underrated, yes they have large leaves but they bring so much color to the garden at this time of year.
Cyclamen hederifolium
As well as Colchicums there are Cyclamen hederifoliums flowering around the garden. I particularly like this group and the way they appear to be lining up behind the leaves.
Another discovery in the depth of the back of the garden – a begonia of some sort bought from a charity plant sale, which seems to be thriving. I love the way the flowers add pin pricks of color amongst the foliage.
Finally, high up above the back planting the Abutilon is flowering. I can’t remember the variety but I do like the way the flowers look like they are made out of silk and velvet.
Thanks to Carol over at May Dream Gardens for hosting the GBBD meme each month.
