I've developed my garden over 19 years now, with lots of changes of layout, priorities and plants.
This summer, I've been watching it closely to see which plants are the ones that provide what I call "all round value-added". The ones I have singled out, and which I will be buying more of or propagating to replace others are:
Hypericum "Magic Universe" - evergreen, not too big and can be pruned down without too much expertise. Beautiful red new leaves in spring, bright red jewel like buds before small, dainty orange/yellow flowers. Then black berries all through winter with dark green leaves. I have two cuttings coming along, one of which I will plant in a gap that I fill with annuals at present, and the other I will give away to a friend/neighbour/relative if they want it.
Hebe Grande Blue. Another evergreen, but stunning blue flowers at this time of year when other plants may be losing their "oomph"! Again, easy to look after.
Rose "My Mum". I bought this rose at the Hampton Court flower show this year and planted it in a large pot using Rose Compost. It has flowered it socks off, and at the moment there are three new, large shoots which are developing yet more buds. It is unusual in that it has red flowers but with a white reverse to the petals so really stands out.
Any of the Magellanica - I have four varieties now, Mrs P Woods, White Knights Pearl, Star Wars and the common red/purple one (forget its name, sorry). Again, these perform year after year. You can grow them as hedges, cut them down drastically if they outgrow their space and they tolerate most aspects.
Hosta Praying Hands. I have this in a pot along with a few others, and it is never bothered by slugs or snails. Unusual folded upright leaves and stunning flowers.
Do any of you have plants which more than earn their place in your garden? I do have some which have been "wrong plant in wrong place" and would like to plant some new varieties which will give me pleasure for more than just a few weeks a year.
