Acers (Japanese maples) are best known for their vivid autumn leaves that turn various colours during October, including fiery red, orange, yellow and brown. They make a perfect focal point brightening up dark corners of the garden, and even grow well in pots.
A medium-sized maple with stunning yellow leaves in spring followed by yellow lime coloured leaves in summer and shades of orange and red in autumn.
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 4 metres
Spread: Up to 4 metres
Has fantastic bright scarlet leaves during autumn that is a garnet stone colour throughout spring and summer, it’s slightly more compact than other varieties so makes a great addition to a patio pot or planted in a smaller garden.
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 2 metres
Spread: Up to 2 metres
Is a great compact weeping Japanese maple variety with mid to bright green leaves in spring and summer that turn an orange-red in autumn.
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 2 metres
Spread: Up to 2 metres
Purple and red shades in spring that have an outstanding autumn colour show of brilliant hues of oranges and reds.
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 4 metres
Spread: Up to 4 metres
A small-sized tree with a dark orange edge and yellow centre in autumn turning to shades of green during the summer.
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 4 metres
Spread: Up to 3 metres
A compact variety perfect for smaller gardens or even a patio pot. Displays of shades of red throughout the seasons and a crimson red in autumn.
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 4 metres
Spread: Up to 3 metres
Known for its coral-pink stems and lush green leaves in summer that turn a soft yellow in autumn this will make a great feature tree.
Position: Partial shade
Height: Up to 4 metres
Spread: Up to 2 metres
In need of more inspiration for your next project? head back to our solutions page here
Posted 25th Aug 1:31pm
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Newcastle’s iconic Quayside on the River Tyne has recently been brought to life as part of the NE1 Summer in the City project which has transformed a number of outdoor spaces across the city.
As part of the project sixty-nine, large planters have been installed along the Quayside. The planters have been made from upcycled concrete manhole rings, which have been decorated and filled with shrubs, herbaceous, grasses and trees, alongside various art installations to enhance the planting design.
Our customer Southern Green Ltd was commissioned to design and install the planters by their client NE1 Ltd with the planting interventions designed and delivered within 10 weeks including the procurement of all materials. JCC Engineers, Trevor Atkinson Landscapes, AH Events, Glebe House Vintage, Merchant no.1, RASKL Studio and The Traveller and the Bear were also part of the team brought together by NE1 to deliver this ambitious project.
Southern Green Ltd called upon Johnsons to supply a large number of plants including Carex Testacea, Achillea ‘Cloth of Gold’ Hebe ‘Sutherlandii’, Lavandula ‘Munstead’, Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’, Salvia ‘Caradonna’, Astilbe ‘Fanal’, Miscanthus ‘Gracillimus, Campanula ‘Perla Blue’ and Verbena bonariensis.
Other pop-ups installed throughout Newcastle’s city centre have included a large open-air cinema Screen on the Green at Old Eldon Square, ‘Wave-Field’, an installation of 8 seesaws, the Urban Garden at Wesley Square, a 75m long pavement vinyl by artist Tim Gresham, 3D Street Art by 3D Joe & Max and even water activities on the river.
The ‘Summer in the City’ project aims to encourage tourists and locals into the city, with new attractions and activities to enjoy for all age groups.
Alex Slack, Head of Special Projects at NE1 Ltd said: “The Summer in the City project and associated Quayside interventions are the result of months of hard work, dedication and commitment of everybody involved. Emerging from lockdown and faced with both material and labour shortages (as well as a relatively short lead in) it was vital that we had the right people in place to deliver our vision. The creativity and innovative thinking of Southern Green coupled with a first-rate service from Johnsons enabled us to achieve something truly remarkable despite numerous challenges. We are absolutely thrilled with the result and are enormously grateful to all who contributed.”
Liam Haggarty, Southern Green Director, said: “It has been a privilege to be involved in yet another fantastic and innovative project working alongside friends and colleagues at NE1. The project is an exemplar for what can be achieved with a ‘can do’ attitude and a fantastic team of people all willing to go the extra mile from start to finish.
Johnsons are always great to work with and provide the highest quality plant stock. They agreed to a nursery visit at very short notice, and then collated and delivered everything to our exacting specification within a matter of days, which was one of the key factors to the successful delivery of the works on site – thank you again to Tony and his team.”
It was great to get involved in this project and bring the Quayside to life this summer. Liam came to the Nursery to choose the plants required. The aim was to get as much colour in as possible with good quality plants, each batch of plants was tagged to indicate the grade required to be lifted. All of the plants were sent to the site on trollies to avoid damage to the plants and particularly the flowers.
This is not the first ‘pop-up’ project johnsons has been involved with, click here to see a pop-up garden we supplied in Manchester for a well-known coffee brand.
Posted 23rd Aug 3:55pm
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If you are wanting your garden to bloom throughout the year, be sure to include long-flowering varieties in your projects from Vincas to Erysimum. Below is a list of some of our favourite long-flowering varieties.
A long-flowering semi-evergreen with narrow, grey-green leaves. This perennial produces spikes of purple flowers from late February to July and will make a great addition to a long flowering sunny border.
Flowers: February – July
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.75m
Soil: poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soil
Available in 2L pots.
One of our favourite ground cover plants is the evergreen Vinca Minor. It is well-known for its capability in ground-covering flaunting its star-like blue flowers which can be seen from April to September. Planting the Vinca Minor in very dry soil exposed to full sun or partial shade will allow them to flourish.
Flowers: April – September
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 0.2 metres
Soil: Very dry soil
Available in 2L pots.
Is a semi-evergreen perennial, well-known for its crimson upright flowers. It can be seen in the Autumn months from September to November, growing up to half a metre tall. For best results, soil moisture must be moist but well-drained.
Flowers: June-October
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 0.5 metres
Soil: Moist but well-drained
Available in 2L and 5L pots.
A perfect plant doing well in partial shade to full sun, it’s great for underplanting or filling in any empty gaps in your border, adding beautiful purple flowers from June through to October.
Flowers: June – October
Position: Sun – Partial Shade
Height: Up to 0.6m
Soil: fertile, well-drained soil.
Violet blue flowers grow on purple stems from June to October. Happiest in a sunny position in a well-drained border. The flowers are well-loved by bees and butterflies.
Flowers: June – October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1.2m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
Pot size: 2l, 3L,5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
A great addition to a sunny partial shade area of a project. They would even look great in a hanging basket.
Flowers: June-October
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
Flowers: May – October
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 1m depending on the variety
Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
Flowers: July – October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1m (depending on the variety)
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L. 3L
Tall branching stems with clusters of lilac-purple flowers from June to September are ideal for the front or middle of a border in full sun.
Flowers: June – September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 2m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Available in 2l pots (depending on variety)
Other long-flowering varieties you could use include Lavender, Hypericum, Erigeron, Penstemon, Nepeta and Buddleia.
For more garden inspiration, head to our solutions page by clicking here
Posted 11th Aug 10:33am
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Creating a bird-friendly garden is one of the best ways to support local wildlife while adding beauty and biodiversity to your outdoor space. Hedging plants provide essential food, shelter, and nesting opportunities for birds throughout the year. In this guide, we’ll explore the top hedge plants that will turn your garden into a haven for feathered visitors.
Holly is an excellent choice for bird-friendly hedging, offering both food and shelter.
Also known as May or Quickthorn, hawthorn is one of the most valuable hedging plants for wildlife.
We have a great selection of bare root hedging available from 40-60cm tall to 175-200cm tall from November to March.
A dense, thorny hedging plant that is perfect for providing shelter and food.
Available in container pots throughout the year or in bare-root form come November – March.
A beautiful flowering tree that attracts birds with its blossoms and berries.
You can purchase this variety from us throughout the year as a container-grown plant or as a bare root one from November – March.
Cotoneaster hedging is both ornamental and practical for wildlife.
Available in a number of pot sizes from 2L to 10L.
A fast-growing native tree that is great for wet conditions.
This hedging plant is available in container pots throughout the year and in various bare-root sizes from November-March.
Other hedging varieties to consider to encourage birds to your garden include Pyracantha, Acer campestre, Dog Rose, and Malus sylvestris.
By incorporating these hedging plants into your garden, you can create a thriving habitat for birds all year round. Not only will they provide essential food and shelter, but they will also enhance the beauty of your landscape. Whether you have a small urban garden or a large rural plot, these hedge varieties will help support local bird populations while adding vibrant greenery to your space.
Posted 10th Aug 3:22pm
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Two employees Krzysztof Scislowski and Tom Watkins, have recently created a memorial bench for a previous employee, Dean Yarrow using pallets.
Earlier this year, we were notified of a fatal car accident on the A165 near Bridlington, which involved Dean, his wife and toddler Henry. Dean and his wife sadly died at the scene while their son was treated for minor injuries.
Dean was a well-loved hard-working member of the Johnsons team for 3 years from 2016-2019 and was Deputy Manager at our Whixley site, working closely with Krzysztof and Tom.
Krzystof and Tom are some of many Johnsons employees with fond memories of Dean and specifically remember him eating his lunch sat on nursery pallets which inspired their pallet bench memorial idea.
Deputy Cattal Manager, Tom Watkins said:
“Dean was an unforgettable character; his knowledge and passion for plants were inspiring to me when working with him.
His ability to always make me laugh both in and outside of work was everything you needed in a good friend.
This bubbly persona definitely shines through in his son, Henry, who is also a likeness of his mother in that sense. The memorial bench Krzysztof made is a great place for others to share the memory of Dean.”
Whixley site Manager Krzysztof, said: “
Dean was a helpful, funny, loved friend not only at work but also after. He always had a smile and was ready to help
and such will stay in my memory, a lot of the things we did together at Whixley will remind me of him.”
Group Managing Director, Graham Richardson added: “Dean was a genuinely likeable character who was a valued colleague at Roecliffe, Whixley and in the business generally.
There is little we can do to ‘soften’ the impact of this tragic accident – memories are all we have and our memorial bench is a fitting tribute.”
Posted 9th Aug 2:33pm
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Congratulations to Jack Witham, who has joined our Amenity Sales team as a Junior Sales Executive Find out what he had to say about his new role below.
1. What will your new role at Johnsons involve?
I am going into the Amenity sales team, so it involves several things to do with the Amenity side. Doing quotes is what I have started learning, but it also includes sorting sales orders and dealing with customers, new and old.
2. How long have you been a part of the Johnsons team?
I started at Johnsons when I was 17 during the summer holidays whilst I was at six form college. From then, I’d regularly come back in between term times whilst studying at university. After finishing university last year, I stayed on the nursery until taking this new role. My role was predominantly being an amenity lifter, preparing orders for customers making sure everything was to a high standard.
3. What are you most looking forward to in your new role?
Going into a different job role within the company is what I am most looking forward to, and working on a range of different things. This is my first job in an office, so it will be interesting to see what it is like inside.
4. What do you think the challenges will be?
Doing a job completely different from anything I have done before and learning all the different tips and techniques on computers. My I.T skills are O.K, but there is definitely room for improvement.
5. Do you have any hobbies?
I am a big cricket fan which shouldn’t come as much surprise working here. I am the Whixley cricket club captain, playing every weekend in summer when it doesn’t rain. I also have a membership at Yorkshire cricket club and watch them a lot when I can. I think that’s the only hobby I actually have.
6. Favourite subject at school?
Shockingly, it was P.E. Unfortunately, we hardly ever played cricket at school, and I wasn’t very good at other sports. I scored an own goal during my football examination, which brought my markdown.
7. Favourite food?
I love a Lamb pasanda from an Indian. It has to be the best meal out there. Any Indian food, though, is nice. Chinese is also very good. To be honest, I like a lot of food, just not mushrooms and cauliflower.
8. Favourite holiday destination?
Barcelona is a wonderful city. It’s got everything, plenty of bars, a lovely beach, and lots of Estrella. I’d love to go back again if I get the chance to. Hopefully travelling between countries will be easier soon and I can go abroad again.
Amenity Sales Manager, Tony Coles said: I would like to welcome Jack into the Amenity Sales Team, Jack brings with him the experience of working out on the Nursery lifting plants for the Amenity sector. I am confident Jack will become an integral part of the team looking after customers and their requirements in the future and I look forward to working with him.
Posted 4th Aug 8:56am
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A warm welcome to Jacob Heap, who has joined our cash & carry team for work experience this August to help fund his racing car.
1) Tell us about yourself:
I am 15 years old and about to go into year 11. I race cars as my hobby but hope to do it professionally.
2)What do you like to get up to outside of school?
Meet up and go away on holiday with friends. I work on my race car. I work with my dad to help pay for racing.
3)How did you get into racing driving?
I tried football and hated it, so my dad bought me a go-kart, and I raced go-karts for 7 years and then decided I wanted to race cars.
4)Favourite race experience and track?
My favourite track is Snetterton, and my favourite race experience was there 4 weeks ago when I started in 14th and battled to get to 6th.
5)What will your work experience money go towards?
It will help fund my racing car.
6) Where do you hope to be in five years time?
Racing in cars at a higher level, winning championships and being as successful as I can.
To find out more about Jacob and his racing, click here to visit his website
Posted 9th Aug 2:05pm
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The lighter evenings are slowly on their way out as we enjoy the last month of summer. However, there’s still plenty to be doing this August, including dead-heading, cutting back and dividing. Check out our August gardening hints and tips put together by Chairman and horticulturist John Richardson below.
1) When going on holiday and concerned about indoor containers being watered, try placing a full bucket of water on the garage floor and placing your pots around it on their own saucers. Using a piece of thick wet string about the consistency of a thick bootlace, tie one end to a piece of old cutlery and place it in the bucket. Push the other end of the string into the compost in one of the pots. Place strings from the cutlery to all the other pots and cross fingers!! It works for me !!
2) Complete the lifting of last seasons bulbs and dry them off naturally in light woven sacks for maximum ventilation.
3) Keep dead-heading the really good flowering plants, and don’t allow them to dry out. This should encourage new flowers and stop them from setting seed. Where heavy watering has been applied, consider giving the plants a top-dressing of general fertilizer, either dry or liquid, to keep them growing well into the autumn.
4) Cut back the long whippy growths of Wisteria to within 3 buds of the old wood if they are not required to extend the area covered by the plant.
5) Keep an eye on the whole garden and spray or pick off pests on Dahlias and Chrysanthemums in particular.
6) Collect and dispose of the first fallen fruits from apple trees. Many will be damaged and prone to spreading diseases such as brown rot.
7) Divide and replant rhizomatous Iris, and layer Carnations and Pinks. Peg them into moist soil after carefully cracking a small section of the stem. Ensure the treated area remains in moist soil.
8) Continue to water new lawns recently established. I suggest that it would be better to leave further lawn development until after mid-September when the weather is cooler.
9) It is important to provide water for wildlife in the dry months, a substantial bird bath plus a large saucer of water let into the ground for mice, hedgehogs, insects etc., will be much appreciated!
10) Collect seeds of any plants you may wish to reproduce for next year. Cover seed-heads with a paper bag and tap them to release seed over time. Do not save seed from plants described as being of F1 origin.
11) Cut back to ground level the canes of summer fruits such as Raspberries, Loganberries, Blackberries etc., as soon as fruiting is complete. Tie in the growth of this year’s new canes as these are your next year’s fruiting canes.
12)From the middle of the month begin successional sowing of spring cabbage for winter harvest and lettuce sown under glass for use during the winter
13) Make sure to leave time to be able to sit back and enjoy the late August evenings before the need to start winter digging and tree pruning becomes an urgent matter!
Posted 6th Aug 2:36pm
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Are you in need of some inspiration for your next garden project and looking to add late-flowering herbaceous plants that will carry your display well into early autumn? As summer begins to wind down, September offers a second wave of vibrant colour, texture, and pollinator activity. Many perennials reach their peak during this time, providing bold blooms and architectural interest just when other parts of the garden may be fading. From the sculptural heads of Sedum to the graceful sway of Anemones, these reliable performers are perfect for filling seasonal gaps and extending the beauty of your borders.
Achilleas are a great addition to a mixed border or cottage garden in full sun – partial shade with flat-topped flowers that bloom from June – September with many cultivars and colours to choose from ranging from yellow to white and pink.
Flowers: June-September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade (depending on variety)
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Anemone (Japanese Windflower) is a graceful perennial that blooms from late summer into autumn, adding soft colour and movement to borders. With tall, airy stems and delicate pink or white flowers, it’s ideal for partial shade and pairs beautifully with ferns and grasses. Low-maintenance and long-flowering, it’s a standout in late-season gardens.
Flowers: August – October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 1.2m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist, fertile, humus-rich soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Alchemilla mollis (Lady’s Mantle) is a hardy perennial known for its soft, scalloped leaves that catch dewdrops and airy sprays of yellow-green flowers in early summer. It thrives in sun or partial shade, spreads gently, and makes an excellent groundcover or edging plant. Perfect for softening paths and mixing with cottage garden perennials.
Flowers: June-September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 0.6m
Soil: Humus-rich soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L
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Alstroemeria (Peruvian Lily) is a long-flowering perennial prized for its vibrant, lily-like blooms that appear from late spring through autumn. Available in a wide range of colours—pink, orange, red, yellow, and white—its flowers are perfect for cutting and last well in vases. Alstroemeria thrives in sun or partial shade, prefers well-drained soil, and offers a bold splash of colour in borders or containers.
Flowers: June-September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 0.9m (depending on the variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 3L
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Agastache (also known as Hyssop or Hummingbird Mint) is a fragrant, upright perennial prized for its spikes of tubular flowers in shades of purple, pink, orange, or blue from mid-summer to autumn. Loved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating heat and drought. Its aromatic foliage and long bloom time make it perfect for pollinator gardens, prairie-style borders, and dry, sunny spots.
Flowers: July – October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1m (depending on the variety)
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L. 3L
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Agapanthus (African Lily) is a striking perennial known for its tall stems topped with globe-like clusters of blue, violet, or white flowers in mid to late summer. Its strappy green leaves form neat clumps, and it thrives in sunny, well-drained spots, making it ideal for borders or containers. Drought-tolerant and elegant, Agapanthus adds bold, architectural interest to the garden.
Flowers: July – September (depending on the variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Aster (also known as Michaelmas Daisy) is a late-blooming perennial that brings a burst of colour from late summer into autumn. With daisy-like flowers in shades of purple, pink, blue, or white, it’s a favorite for pollinators, especially bees and butterflies. Asters thrive in full sun to partial shade and work beautifully in borders, wildlife gardens, and mixed plantings.
Flowers: August – October (depends on the variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.9m (depending on variety)
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L
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Campanula (Bellflower) is a versatile perennial known for its bell-shaped flowers in shades of blue, purple, or white, blooming from late spring through summer. With varieties ranging from low-growing groundcovers to upright border plants, Campanula thrives in sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It adds a soft, cottage-garden feel and is great for edging, rock gardens, or mixed borders.
Flowers: July – September (depends on the variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 0.3m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist, well-drained, soil
Pot size: 2L
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Coreopsis (Tickseed) is a cheerful, long-blooming perennial known for its bright, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, gold, orange, or pink. Blooming from early summer to autumn, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and is loved by pollinators. Coreopsis is drought-tolerant, easy to grow, and perfect for borders, wildlife gardens, and sunny containers.
Flowers: June – September (depends on the variety)
Position: Full sun -partial shade
Height: Up to 0.5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 3L
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Crocosmia (also known as Montbretia) is a vibrant, clump-forming perennial that produces arching stems of fiery, funnel-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, or yellow from mid to late summer. Its sword-like foliage adds structure and movement, and the blooms are magnets for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Thriving in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, Crocosmia is perfect for adding bold colour to borders and late-summer displays.
Flowers: August – September
Position: Full sun -partial shade
Height: Up to 1.2m (depending on variety)
Soil:Moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil
Pot size: 3L, 5L
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Dahlia is a show-stopping perennial grown for its striking, colourful blooms that range from small, delicate singles to large, dinner-plate-sized flowers. Blooming from mid-summer until the first frost, dahlias come in nearly every colour except true blue. They thrive in full sun and rich, well-drained soil, and are perfect for cut flower gardens, borders, and statement containers. Though technically tender perennials, dahlias are often lifted and stored over winter in colder climates.
Flowers: June – September (depends on the variety)
Position: Full sun -partial shade
Height: Up to 0.5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 3L
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Echinacea (Coneflower) is a bold, upright perennial known for its large, daisy-like flowers with prominent central cones, blooming from mid-summer into autumn. Most commonly found in shades of purple, pink, white, and orange, Echinacea is a magnet for bees, butterflies, and birds. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, is drought-tolerant, and adds long-lasting color and structure to prairie-style plantings, wildlife gardens, and sunny borders.
Flowers: July – September
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Most soils, except very dry or boggy
Pot size: 2L, 3L
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Erigeron (commonly known as Fleabane) is a charming, low-growing perennial that produces masses of small, daisy-like flowers in shades of white, pink, or lilac with yellow centers. Blooming from late spring through autumn, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. Erigeron is perfect for cottage gardens, walls, gravel paths, and edging, where it self-seeds gently to form natural-looking drifts.
Flowers: May – October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L
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Geranium (Hardy Geranium or Cranesbill) is a reliable, low-maintenance perennial valued for its mounded foliage and long-lasting, saucer-shaped flowers in shades of pink, blue, purple, or white. Blooming from late spring through summer—and some varieties into autumn—it thrives in sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. Geraniums are excellent for groundcover, edging, or weaving through borders, and many varieties are deer-resistant and pollinator-friendly.
Flowers: June – October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 0.6m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L
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Leucanthemum (commonly known as the Shasta Daisy) is a classic, long-flowering perennial loved for its bold, white, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers, blooming from early summer into autumn. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, adding a fresh, cheerful look to borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator-friendly plantings. Compact, upright, and easy to grow, Leucanthemum pairs beautifully with grasses and late-summer perennials.
Flowers: June – September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L
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Liatris (commonly known as Blazing Star or Gayfeather) is a striking, upright perennial valued for its tall spikes of fluffy, purple or white flowers that bloom top to bottom from mid to late summer. Its grassy, clump-forming foliage stays neat, and the blooms are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Liatris thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for prairie-style borders, wildlife gardens, and sunny beds. It’s also drought-tolerant and excellent for cut flowers.
Flowers: August – September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately-fertile, reliably moist soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L
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Nepeta (commonly known as Catmint) is a hardy, aromatic perennial known for its soft, grey-green foliage and clouds of small, lavender-blue flowers that bloom from late spring through summer, often into autumn. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, is drought-tolerant, and attracts bees and pollinators. With its relaxed, billowy habit, Nepeta is perfect for softening path edges, filling gaps in borders, or pairing with roses and grasses.
Flowers: June – September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun- partial shade
Height: Up to 0.9m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2l, 3L, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability).
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Penstemon (commonly known as Beardtongue) is a long-flowering perennial admired for its tall spires of tubular flowers in shades of pink, purple, red, white, or blue, blooming from early summer into autumn. Its elegant, upright form and nectar-rich blooms make it a favourite with bees and hummingbirds. Penstemon prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and works beautifully in mixed borders, cottage gardens, and pollinator-friendly plantings. Deadheading encourages a longer bloom period.
Flowers: July – October
Position: Full sun- partial shade
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2l, 3L (depending on variety and subject to availability).
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Persicaria (commonly known as Knotweed or Bistort) is a bold, long-flowering perennial known for its dense spikes of small flowers in shades of red, pink, or white, blooming from mid-summer into autumn. It thrives in sun or partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil, making it ideal for naturalistic borders, damp spots, or prairie-style plantings. With its spreading habit and extended bloom time, Persicaria adds texture, movement, and late-season colour to the garden—and is loved by pollinators too
Flowers: June – October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun- partial shade
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Any moist soil
Pot size: 2l (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Perovskia (commonly known as Russian Sage) is a striking, aromatic perennial valued for its silvery-grey foliage and airy spikes of lavender-blue flowers, blooming from mid-summer into autumn. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and is both drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. Perovskia adds a soft, hazy texture to borders and pairs beautifully with grasses, echinacea, and rudbeckia in prairie-style or Mediterranean plantings. It’s also a magnet for bees and butterflies.
Flowers: August – September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1.2m (depending on variety)
Soil:Well-drained, poor to moderately fertile
Pot size: 2l, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Rudbeckia (commonly known as Black-eyed Susan) is a bold, late-summer perennial known for its bright yellow or gold daisy-like flowers with distinctive dark central cones. Blooming from mid-summer into autumn, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and is loved by bees, butterflies, and birds. Rudbeckia adds vibrant colour and structure to borders, prairie-style plantings, and pollinator gardens, and pairs well with grasses and other late-season perennials.
Flowers: August – October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.8m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, preferably heavy but well-drained soil
Pot size: 2l, 3L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Salvia (commonly known as Sage) is a vibrant, long-flowering perennial known for its spikes of tubular flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, or red, blooming from late spring through summer, often into autumn. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, is drought-tolerant, and highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. With aromatic foliage and a tidy habit, Salvia is perfect for borders, pollinator gardens, and Mediterranean-style plantings.
Flowers: June – October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1.2m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
Pot size: 2l, 3L,5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Sanguisorba (commonly known as Burnet) is a graceful, clump-forming perennial valued for its tall, slender stems topped with bottlebrush-like flower heads in shades of crimson, pink, or white, blooming from mid to late summer into autumn. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. With its airy form and soft movement, Sanguisorba is ideal for naturalistic, prairie-style, or cottage garden plantings, and is a favourite of pollinators.
Flowers: June – September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 0.6m (depending on variety)
Soil: Poor-to-average, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2l, 3L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Scabiosa (commonly known as Pincushion Flower) is a charming perennial known for its dainty, pincushion-like blooms in shades of blue, lavender, pink, or white, flowering from late spring through to autumn. Loved by bees and butterflies, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and makes an excellent addition to cottage gardens, borders, and pollinator-friendly plantings. Its compact habit and long bloom time also make it ideal for containers and cut flower gardens.
Flowers: June – September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil
Pot size: 2l, 3L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Sedum (commonly known as Stonecrop) is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial prized for its fleshy, succulent leaves and flat-topped flower heads that bloom from late summer into autumn. Flowers come in shades of pink, red, or white, and are highly attractive to bees and butterflies. Sedum thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for borders, gravel gardens, and containers. Its upright varieties add structure and seasonal colour, while low-growing types work well as groundcover.
Flowers: August – November (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.6m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil
Pot size: 2l, 3L, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Verbena (especially Verbena bonariensis) is a tall, airy perennial known for its clusters of small, purple flowers held on slender, upright stems that bloom from summer into autumn. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and is a magnet for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. With its see-through form, Verbena adds height without blocking views, making it ideal for naturalistic borders, wildlife gardens, and contemporary plantings. It often self-seeds and returns reliably year after year.
Flowers: July – September
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 2m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Whether you’re refreshing a tired border or planning a new design, these late-summer herbaceous perennials and shrubs are available now at Johnsons. Visit us in-store or get in touch to check current stock and expert recommendations tailored to your space.
Posted 12th Aug 2:20pm
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In need of some late-flowering shrubs for your August garden projects? Whether you’re looking to extend your borders with rich, seasonal colour or fill containers with eye-catching blooms, these standout shrubs are ideal for bringing texture, interest, and pollinator value to your garden as summer shifts into autumn. From compact, fragrant performers to bold architectural foliage, our hand-picked selection features favourites from Abelia to Vinca.
A graceful, semi-evergreen shrub with arching branches and small, fragrant tubular flowers in shades of white or pale pink. Flowering from mid-summer through to autumn, Abelia adds delicate movement and scent to borders. Its glossy leaves take on bronze or purple tints in cooler weather, offering extra seasonal interest. Ideal for mixed borders or low hedging, it also attracts bees and butterflies.
Flowers: June – October (depending on the variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1.5m (depending on the variety)
Soil: Well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + (subject to availability)
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Often referred to as the butterfly bush, Buddleia is a sun-loving, fast-growing shrub with long, conical spikes of fragrant flowers in shades of purple, white, or pink. Flowering from July to September, it is a magnet for pollinators and makes an excellent choice for wildlife gardens. With both large and compact cultivars available, Buddleia suits a range of garden sizes.
Flowers: July – September
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 4m
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + (subject to availability)
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A compact, deciduous shrub that bursts into bloom in late summer with clouds of small, electric blue flowers. Also known as bluebeard, it thrives in sunny, well-drained spots and is drought-tolerant once established. Its aromatic, grey-green foliage provides a lovely contrast to late-season flowering perennials, and its blooms are loved by bees.
Flowers: July – September
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 1m
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, (subject to availability)
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This dramatic shrub is known for its bold, rounded leaves in shades of deep purple, red, or golden green, depending on the variety. In summer, it produces wispy, smoke-like flower plumes that give it its common name, smoke bush. Cotinus brings structure, colour, and contrast to borders and looks especially striking when paired with grasses and bold perennials.
Flowers: July – August
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (subject to availability)
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Fuchsias provide continuous colour from midsummer through to the first frosts. Their pendant, two-tone flowers come in a wide range of colours, including purples, pinks, reds, and whites. Ideal for shadier borders, containers, or hanging baskets, they attract bees and can be grown as either compact shrubs or larger bushy forms depending on the variety.
Flowers: June-October
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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A low-growing, sun-loving evergreen that thrives in dry, well-drained soils, especially in coastal or Mediterranean-style gardens. It produces bright yellow, rock rose-like flowers in late spring to early summer. While the flowering window is relatively short, Halimium makes up for it with year-round foliage and resilience in hot, dry locations.
Flowers: June-August
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.5m
Soil: Well-drained soil
Pot size: 3L,10L (subject to availability)
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These evergreen shrubs range from compact cushion forms to medium-sized mounds, all featuring glossy green or variegated foliage. Hebes flower from summer into autumn with spikes of purple, pink, or white blooms. Their tidy shape and versatility make them ideal for borders, containers, and coastal gardens, and they are loved by pollinators.
Flowers: July-September (depending on the variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 1m (depending on the variety)
Soil: poor or moderately fertile, moist, well-drained neutral to slightly alkaline soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (subject to availability)
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Offering some of the showiest blooms in the summer garden, Hydrangeas flower from mid-summer into autumn with large heads of pink, blue, white or lime green, depending on soil type and variety. They thrive in both sun and shade and are excellent for adding volume and impact to borders or woodland-style plantings.
Flowers: June-September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade (depending on variety)
Height: Up to 1.5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil, fertile soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L + (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Also known as St. John’s Wort, this adaptable shrub blooms from summer into early autumn with bright yellow, star-shaped flowers followed by ornamental berries. It performs well in a range of soils and conditions and is especially useful for groundcover or informal hedging. Its long flowering season makes it a reliable performer.
Flowers: June-October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade (depending on variety)
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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A tall, fast-growing shrub with large, hibiscus-like flowers in shades of soft pink or white. Blooming throughout summer, Lavatera adds height and movement to borders. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is perfect for adding a cottage garden feel with minimal maintenance.
Flowers: June-September
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 2m
Soil: Fertile -well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Known for its aromatic silver-grey foliage and spikes of fragrant purple flowers, Lavender is a staple for sunny, well-drained gardens. Flowering in mid to late summer, it attracts bees and butterflies while also providing a useful culinary and craft herb. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, it also works well in gravel or Mediterranean gardens.
Flowers: June-September
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.6m
Soil: Fertile -well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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These low-growing, deciduous shrubs flower from late spring right through to autumn, offering masses of simple, cheerful blooms in yellow, pink, white or red. Ideal for rockeries, front-of-border planting, or mixed shrub beds, Potentilla thrives in sun and is tolerant of poorer soils, making it an excellent fuss-free option.
Flowers: May – October
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 1m depending on the variety
Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
With a huge variety of flower forms, fragrances, and growth habits, modern repeat-flowering roses can bloom from June until the first frosts. Shrub and groundcover types are ideal for mixed borders, while climbers and ramblers can be trained over arches and walls. Look for disease-resistant varieties for lower maintenance.
Flowers: July – September
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1.5m depending on the variety
Soil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
A compact, deciduous shrub that provides both flower and foliage interest. Flowering from early to midsummer in white or pink clusters, many varieties also offer vibrant autumn foliage in reds and oranges. Spiraea is easy to care for, tolerates a range of soils, and is great for low hedges or mass planting.
Flowers: July – August (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 2m + (depending on variety)
Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Commonly known as periwinkle, Vinca is a low-growing, evergreen groundcover with glossy leaves and small violet, blue, or white flowers that bloom from spring through summer. It’s perfect for underplanting in tricky spots, including dry shade, and helps suppress weeds while providing a soft carpet of greenery and colour.
Flowers: April – September
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 0.45m depending on the variety
Soil: any but very dry soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Posted 1st Aug 10:55am
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Looking to add vibrant colour and structure to your planting schemes this September? Late-flowering shrubs are a fantastic way to extend seasonal interest, support pollinators, and add year-round appeal to gardens and landscapes. From long-blooming classics like Abelia and Fuchsia to pollinator favourites like Buddleia and Caryopteris, our carefully curated selection includes reliable performers ideal for autumn planting while the soil is still warm. Explore some of our top shrub picks below — all available in a range of sizes to suit your project needs.
Abelia is a semi-evergreen shrub with a long flowering season, offering delicate bell-shaped flowers from summer into autumn. Varieties like ‘Kaleidoscope’ feature striking variegated foliage that shifts in colour as the seasons change, adding interest even when not in bloom. It’s compact, reliable, and ideal for sunny borders or containers.
Flowers: June – October (depending on the variety)
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1.5m (depending on the variety)
Soil: Well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + (subject to availability)
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Beloved by pollinators, Buddleia produces long, fragrant flower spikes from midsummer to early autumn. It thrives in full sun and brings height and colour to wildlife-friendly gardens. Varieties range from compact to towering, with blooms in purple, white, pink, and even yellow.
Flowers: July – September
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 4m
Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L + (subject to availability)
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A late-summer gem, Caryopteris adds bold colour when many other shrubs are winding down. Its aromatic foliage and nectar-rich flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it perfect for sunny, sheltered spots. Compact in form, it’s well-suited for borders and mixed planting schemes.
Flowers: July – September
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 1m
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, (subject to availability)
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Fuchsias are valued for their profuse, pendulous blooms and long flowering season. These versatile shrubs perform well in both sun and partial shade, bringing vibrant pink, purple, or red flowers to borders or pots. Hardy types like ‘Mrs Popple’ also offer good resilience through cooler months.
Flowers: June-October
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Fertile, moist well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Hebes are compact, evergreen shrubs with tidy foliage and soft flower spikes that bloom into autumn. Their tidy shape and evergreen presence make them great for structure, while their flowers feed late-season pollinators. Ideal for borders, rockeries, or modern planting schemes.
Flowers: July-September (depending on the variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 1m (depending on the variety)
Soil: poor or moderately fertile, moist, well-drained neutral to slightly alkaline soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (subject to availability)
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Hydrangeas are bold and dramatic with large flower heads in white, pink, or lime-green depending on variety. They prefer fertile, moist soil and offer great value from summer into early autumn. From climbing forms like petiolaris to bushy varieties like ‘Annabelle’, there’s a Hydrangea for every space.
Flowers: June-September (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade (depending on variety)
Height: Up to 1.5m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil, fertile soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L + (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Also known as St. John’s Wort, Hypericum offers bright yellow flowers from early summer into autumn, often followed by colourful berries. Compact and reliable, it’s ideal for mass planting, hedging, or informal borders, and adds seasonal flair late into the year.
Flowers: June-October (depending on variety)
Position: Full sun – partial shade (depending on variety)
Height: Up to 1m (depending on variety)
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Lavatera, or tree mallow, produces hibiscus-like flowers in shades of pink and white, flowering non-stop through summer and into September. Its airy, upright habit makes it great for filling gaps in sunny borders, especially in cottage or coastal-style gardens.
Flowers: June-September
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 2m
Soil: Fertile -well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Lavender is a classic shrub for sunny spots, prized for its fragrant purple blooms and grey-green foliage. Flowering from June to early autumn, it’s a pollinator magnet and works beautifully in borders, edging, or pots. Drought-tolerant once established, and great for low-maintenance gardens.
Flowers: June-September
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 0.6m
Soil: Fertile -well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Potentillas are hardy, low-growing shrubs that flower for months — from May well into October. Their cheerful, simple flowers come in red, yellow, pink, and white, brightening up borders and groundcover areas. Easy to care for, they’re ideal for mass planting or informal schemes.
Flowers: May – October
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 1m depending on the variety
Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Shrub roses offer all the charm of traditional roses with a more relaxed, bushy habit. Blooming from mid-summer into autumn, they’re great for adding fragrance and romance to beds or hedges. Varieties like ‘Rosa Kent’ provide compact form and long-lasting flowers.
Flowers: July – September
Position: Full sun
Height: Up to 1.5m depending on the variety
Soil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L, 7.5L, 10L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Also known as periwinkle, Vinca is a trailing groundcover shrub that produces star-shaped flowers from spring through early autumn. Its dense foliage helps suppress weeds, making it great for underplanting or covering awkward shady corners.
Flowers: April – September
Position: Full sun – partial shade
Height: Up to 0.45m depending on the variety
Soil: any but very dry soil
Pot size: 2L, 3L, 5L (depending on variety and subject to availability)
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Posted 24th Aug 9:43am
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