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Looking Out for Hedgehogs...

Hedgehogs are some of the most endearing creatures in our gardens, but winter...

Prune Apple Trees

Pruning is an essential task for maintaining healthy, productive apple trees. Proper pruning...

Dividing Snowdrops: A Step-by-Step...

Snowdrops (Galanthus spp.) are a cherished sight in late winter, heralding the arrival...

Force Rhubarb: A Gardener’s...

Forcing rhubarb is a traditional gardening technique that produces tender, sweet stalks, perfect...
Friday, January 16, 2026
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How to Grow Hosta ‘Patriot’

Hosta ‘Patriot’ is a popular variety of the Hosta genus, known for its striking variegated leaves featuring bold white edges and dark green centers....

How to Grow Filipendula rubra ‘Venusta’

Filipendula rubra ‘Venusta’, commonly known as Queen of the Prairie, is a stunning perennial that adds a splash of vibrant color and an airy,...

Impatiens omeiana ‘Pink Nerves’ – Grow Guide

Impatiens omeiana ‘Pink Nerves’ is a captivating perennial known for its striking variegated foliage and delicate pink flowers. Native to China, this plant is...

How to Grow Acanthus ‘Morning’s Candle’

Acanthus ‘Morning’s Candle’, commonly known as Bear’s Breeches, is a striking perennial plant that adds architectural elegance to any garden. With its tall flower...

Cardoon (Cynara cardunculus) – Grow Guide

Cardoons (Cynara cardunculus) can be relatively easy to grow, especially if you have some gardening experience and the right conditions. Cardoons come in several...

How to Grow Ricinus communis

Ricinus communis, commonly known as the castor oil plant, is a versatile and striking plant prized for its unique foliage and valuable oil. Native...

How to Grow Alocasia Micholitziana ‘Frydek’

Alocasia Micholitziana “Frydek,” often referred to simply as Alocasia Frydek, is a striking houseplant known for its velvety, dark green leaves with pronounced white...

Eucomis bicolor – Grow Guide

Eucomis bicolour, commonly known as the pineapple lily, typically comes back every year. This plant is a perennial, meaning it can live for more...

Agapanthus Grow Guide

Types of Agapanthus Agapanthus are generally divided into two main groups based on their foliage habits: evergreen and deciduous. Each has distinct characteristics that influence...

How to grow Montanoa grandiflora (Tree Daisy)

Tree Daisy, scientifically known as Montanoa grandiflora, is a stunning ornamental plant known for its large, daisy-like flowers and lush foliage. Native to Mexico...

How to grow Foxgloves

Foxgloves (Digitalis purpurea), with their striking tubular flowers and tall spires, are a beloved sight in gardens and wild landscapes alike. These biennial plants,...

Alium Grow Guide

Yes, you can lift allium bulbs after they have finished flowering. Here are the steps you should follow: Wait for the Right Time: Allow the...

How to Grow Bergenia ciliata ‘Wilton’

Bergenia ciliata ‘Wilton’ is an enchanting perennial that brings a touch of exotic allure to any garden. Known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and...

How to Grow Rodgersia podophylla ‘Crûg’s Colossus’

Rodgersia podophylla ‘Crûg’s Colossus’ is a spectacular perennial known for its bold, architectural foliage and creamy white flowers. Native to East Asia, this variety...

How to Grow Pteris Umbrosa

Pteris umbrosa, commonly known as the jungle brake or Australian brake fern, is a strikingly elegant fern native to the rainforests of Eastern Australia....

How to Grow Catalpa erubescens Purpurea

Catalpa erubescens Purpurea, commonly known as the purple catalpa, is a stunning hybrid tree noted for its large, heart-shaped leaves that emerge as a...

Growing Meconopsis in a UK Tropical Style Garden

Creating a tropical-style garden in the UK can be a delightful challenge, blending lush, exotic plants with the sometimes harsh British climate. One stunning...

Phormium Tenax

Phormium tenax, commonly known as New Zealand flax, has long been a beloved plant in UK gardens, renowned for its striking, sword-shaped leaves and...

How To Grow Kniphofia ‘Popsicle’

Kniphofia, commonly known as Red Hot Poker or Torch Lily, is a striking and vibrant perennial that adds a splash of color to any...

Growing Salix Acutifolia ‘Blue Streak’

Salix acutifolia ‘Blue Streak’, commonly known as the willow, is a deciduous shrub or small tree known for its striking blue-green foliage and graceful,...

Oxalis Triangularis

Oxalis triangularis, commonly known as the Purple Shamrock or False Shamrock, is a captivating plant with its striking purple foliage and delicate white or...

How To Grow Monarda

Monarda, commonly known as bee balm, is a vibrant, aromatic perennial belonging to the mint family. Known for its unique, shaggy blooms and ability...

Lantana – Grow Guide

Lantana is generally considered to be a tender perennial in the UK, meaning it is not fully hardy and cannot withstand severe frost. It...

Shoo Fly Plant

The shoo fly plant (Nicandra physalodes), also known as the Apple of Peru, is an intriguing annual from the Solanaceae family, which includes familiar...

Growing Butia odorata in the UK

Butia odorata (formerly misidentified as Butia capitata) is one of the hardiest feather palms suitable for UK gardens, particularly in milder regions. Its graceful, arching fronds...

Grow Guide: Ensete ventricosum ‘Hiniba’

Overview Ensete ventricosum ‘Hiniba’ is a rare and striking cultivar of the Abyssinian banana. It is distinguished by its deep blue-green, waxy leaves and rapid growth,...

Grow Guide: Corydalis ‘Blue Heron’

Elegant blue blooms for shady borders and woodland gardens Plant Overview Botanical Name: Corydalis elata ‘Blue Heron’ Common Name: Blue Heron Corydalis Family: Papaveraceae Type: Herbaceous perennial Hardiness: RHS H7 (down to -20°C or lower) Height &...

Grow Guide: Euphorbia ‘Miner’s Merlot’

Plant Overview Botanical Name: Euphorbia ‘Miner’s Merlot’ Common Name: Miner’s Merlot spurge Family: Euphorbiaceae Type: Evergreen perennial or subshrub Hardiness: RHS H4 (–10°C to –5°C) Height & Spread: 45–60cm tall × 45cm wide Foliage: Deep burgundy-purple with a...

Grow Guide for Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris)

Marsh Marigold – Caltha palustris Family: RanunculaceaeCommon Names: Marsh marigold, Kingcup, Cowflock, May blobBotanical Synonyms: Caltha palustris var. radicans, Caltha palustris var. palustris Botanical Description Marsh marigold is a robust, herbaceous perennial native...

Yucca rostrata (Beaked Yucca)

Yucca rostrata (Beaked Yucca) Plant Overview Botanical Classification Kingdom: Plantae Clade: Angiosperms Clade: Monocots Order: Asparagales Family: Asparagaceae Subfamily: Agavoideae Genus: Yucca Species: Yucca rostrata Engelm. ex Trel. Botanical name: Yucca rostrata Engelm. ex Trel. Common name: Beaked Yucca Origin: Chihuahuan Desert, northern Mexico and western Texas Type: Evergreen tree-like perennial Height...

How to Grow Darmera peltata

Darmera peltata, commonly known as umbrella plant or Indian rhubarb, is a stunning perennial known for its large, umbrella-like leaves and delicate pink or...

How to Grow Filipendula ‘Red Umbrellas’

Filipendula ‘Red Umbrellas’ is a striking perennial that adds a splash of vibrant color and texture to any garden. Known for its red-tinted stems,...

How to Grow Euphorbia mellifera

Euphorbia mellifera, commonly known as honey spurge, is a versatile and attractive evergreen shrub known for its honey-scented flowers and striking foliage. Native to...

How to Grow Alstroemeria ‘Indian Summer’

Alstroemeria ‘Indian Summer’ is a beautiful perennial plant that produces vibrant orange flowers. Here are some general guidelines to help you grow and care...

How to grow Mukdenia rossii ‘Karasuba’

In the realm of gardening, few experiences rival the joy of nurturing a plant that thrives with vigor and grace. Among the plethora of...

Calla Lily – Zantedeschia Grow Guide

How do you take care of a calla lily plant? Calla lilies are elegant and relatively easy to care for. Here are some general...

How to grow Boehmeria biloba

Sandpaper Plant (Boehmeria biloba) is a remarkable addition to UK gardens, known for its unique texture and adaptability. With its delicate foliage resembling sandpaper,...

How to Grow Lonicera × brownii ‘Dropmore Scarlet’

In the world of gardening, few plants capture the imagination quite like the Lonicera × brownii ‘Dropmore Scarlet’. Its fiery blooms and vigorous growth...

How to grow Verbascum

Verbascums, also known as mulleins, are a group of flowering plants renowned for their tall spikes adorned with delicate, cup-shaped flowers. These hardy perennials...

How to grow Liriodendron tulipifera the Tulip Tree

Growing a tulip tree, also known as Liriodendron tulipifera, can be a great addition to a tropical garden in the UK. Here’s a guide...

Rheum palmatum Grow Guide

Rheum palmatum, commonly known as Chinese rhubarb or ornamental rhubarb, can be excellent ornamental plants for gardens and landscapes. Here are several reasons why: 1....

How to grow Erythronium Pagoda

Erythronium Pagoda, commonly known as the Pagoda Dogtooth Violet or simply Dogtooth Violet, is a charming perennial plant native to North America and Asia....

Cultivating Garrya elliptica: A Guide to Growing Silk Tassel Bush

Garrya elliptica, commonly known as the Silk Tassel Bush, is a versatile and elegant shrub that thrives in the temperate climate of the United...

How to grow Pseudopanax crassifolius Trifoliolatum

Pseudopanax crassifolius trifoliolatum, commonly known as the Three Fingered Pseudopanax, is an elegant and unique evergreen shrub native to New Zealand. With its distinctive...

How to grow Hesperantha

Hesperantha is a genus of flowering plants in the family Iridaceae, commonly known as “river lilies” or “kaffir lilies.” These plants are native to...

How to grow Amicia zygomeris

Amicia zygomeris, commonly known as Yoke-leaved Amicia, is a distinctive and visually appealing perennial plant cherished for its unique yoke-shaped leaves and vibrant blossoms....

How to grow Abutilon Orange ‘Hot Lava’

Abutilon Orange ‘Hot Lava,’ commonly known as Flowering Maple, is a beautiful and vibrant flowering shrub known for its striking orange blossoms and elegant...

How to grow Sauromatum giganteum in the UK

Sauromatum giganteum, commonly known as the voodoo lily or giant voodoo lily, is an unusual and fascinating plant known for its large, exotic-looking leaves...

How to grow Cuphea ignea, cigar plant

Cuphea ignea, commonly known as the cigar plant or firecracker plant, is a tropical flowering shrub that produces tubular, red-orange flowers that resemble a...

How to grow Colocasia ‘Royal Hawaiian Aloha’

Colocasia ‘Royal Hawaiian Aloha’ is a beautiful variety of elephant ear plant known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and striking tropical appearance. To successfully...

How to grow Fuchsia Boliviana

Growing Fuchsia boliviana in the UK can be a bit more challenging due to the cooler climate. However, with the right care and attention,...

Colocasia esculenta ‘Pink China’ Grow Guide

The chances of Pink China bulbs (Colocasia esculenta ‘Pink China’) surviving a UK winter are relatively good, provided some precautions are taken. Pink China...

How to grow Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Magic’

Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Magic,’ commonly known as Black Magic Elephant Ear or Black Taro, is a stunning tropical plant with large, dark-colored leaves. Growing...

Colocasia ‘Black Coral’ Grow Guide

Colocasia ‘Black Coral’ and similar varieties, also known as elephant ears, can be a bit more challenging to grow in the UK due to...

How to grow Solanum quitoense in the UK

Solanum quitoense, commonly known as naranjilla or lulo, is a tropical fruit plant native to South America. Growing it in the UK can be...

How to grow and care for Cleome

Cleome, also known as spider flower or bee plant, is a unique and attractive flowering plant that can add beauty to your garden. Here’s...

Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus) – Grow Guide

Growing Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus) outdoors in the UK can be a bit challenging due to the country’s temperate climate, especially in more northern...

How to grow Lysimachia clethroides

Lysimachia clethroides, commonly known as Gooseneck Loosestrife, is a beautiful herbaceous perennial that produces arching spikes of white, gooseneck-shaped flowers. Here’s how to grow...

How to grow Persicaria virginiana ‘Lance Corporal’

To grow Persicaria virginiana ‘Lance Corporal’ in the UK, follow these steps: Choose the Right Location: Select a planting spot that receives partial to full...

How to grow Coniogramme emeiensis ‘golden zebra’

Coniogramme emeiensis ‘Golden Zebra’ is a cultivar of the Korean Goldband Fern that has striking golden-yellow variegation on its fronds. Growing ‘Golden Zebra’ is...

How to grow Tradescantia fluminensis ‘maiden’s blush’

Tradescantia fluminensis ‘Maiden’s Blush’ is a beautiful and popular houseplant known for its colorful foliage and trailing growth habit. Here’s a guide to help...

How to grow Phytolacca laka boom

Phytolacca americana ‘Silberstein,’ commonly known as American pokeweed ‘Silberstein’ or Phytolacca laka boom, is a cultivar of the native American pokeweed. It is grown...

How do you grow Petasites japonicus?

Petasites japonicus, commonly known as Japanese butterbur or giant butterbur, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to Japan and other parts of...

How to grow and care for Rodgersia ‘Bronze Peacock’

Rodgersia ‘Bronze Peacock’ is a striking perennial plant known for its bronze-colored foliage and attractive plumes of flowers. It grows to about one meter...

Digiplexis ‘Falcon Fire’

Digiplexis ‘Falcon Fire’ is considered to be marginally frost hardy. It is typically hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8-10, where it can withstand temperatures...

How to grow Oakleaf Hydrangeas

To grow oakleaf hydrangeas (Hydrangea quercifolia), you need to provide them with the right growing conditions and follow a few basic care guidelines. Here’s...

How to grow Ipomoea lobata (Spanish Flag)

Ipomoea lobata (Spanish Flag) Botanical name: Ipomoea lobataCommon name: Spanish Flag, Firecracker VinePlant type: Tender annual climberHeight: 2–3 m (6–10 ft)Spread: 1–2 mFlowering: July to...

How to grow Actaea simplex ‘pink spike’

Actaea simplex ‘Pink Spike’, commonly known as Pink Spike bugbane or Pink Spike cohosh, is a beautiful perennial plant that produces tall spikes of...

Growing Colocasia ‘Blue Hawaii’: Adding Exotic Elegance to UK Gardens

Introduction to Colocasia ‘Blue Hawaii’ Colocasia ‘Blue Hawaii’ is a striking cultivar of the taro plant, renowned for its stunning blue-green leaves with dark veins...

How to grow Dicentra spectabilis ‘white gold’

How to Grow Dicentra spectabilis ‘White Gold’ Dicentra spectabilis ‘White Gold’ is a striking variation of the old-fashioned bleeding heart, grown as much for its...

Where is the best place to plant Hakonechloa?

Here’s a clear article followed by a practical grow guide, written in a style that will sit nicely alongside your other Local Gardener content. Where...

How to grow Abutilon megapotamicum

Abutilon megapotamicum (Trailing Abutilon) Botanical Name: Abutilon megapotamicumCommon Name: Trailing Abutilon, Flowering MapleFamily: MalvaceaePlant Type: Semi-evergreen shrub / trailing perennial Description Abutilon megapotamicum is a striking...

Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’

Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’ is quite a tough plant. It’s fully hardy and does best in shade or dappled shade. The soil should ideally be fairly...

How to grow Ensete ventricosum maurelii

No exotic garden would be complete nowadays if it didn't contain an Ensete Maurelii. The massive paddle leaves of glossy luminous green and purple...

Growing Bromeliads in the UK

Bromeliads are often associated with steamy rainforests and exotic holiday destinations, yet many can be grown very successfully in the UK. With their sculptural...

Verbena bonariensis – Complete Grow & Care Guide

Botanical Name: Verbena bonariensis L. Synonyms: Verbena patagonica Gillies & Hook. ex Hook.Family: VerbenaceaeCommon names: Purpletop vervain, Tall verbena, Argentinian vervainPlant type: Short-lived perennial (self-seeds...

Dahlia Fact Sheet

🌺 Dahlia Fact Sheet Botanical name: Dahlia spp.Family: Asteraceae (same as sunflowers, daisies, zinnias)Origin: Native to Mexico and Central America. First introduced to Europe in...

Growing Tithonias in the UK

Tithonias, commonly known as Mexican sunflowers, are a vibrant addition to UK gardens. With their fiery orange-red blooms and striking stature, these tender annuals...

Kerria japonica and Kerria japonica ‘Pleniflora’

🌼 Grow Guide: Kerria japonica and Kerria japonica ‘Pleniflora’ Bright spring flowers for easy, informal gardens 🌿 Plant Overview FeatureKerria japonica (Single)Kerria japonica ‘Pleniflora’ (Double)FamilyRosaceaeRosaceaeTypeDeciduous shrubDeciduous shrubHardinessRHS...

Dicentra (Bleeding Heart)

Sure! Here's a comprehensive Grow Guide for Dicentra (commonly known as Bleeding Heart), ideal for gardeners in temperate climates: 🌿 Grow Guide: Dicentra (Bleeding Heart) Botanical...

Scilla bifolia Grow Guide

Scilla bifolia Grow Guide Botanical Name: Scilla bifolia Common Name: Alpine Squill Family: Asparagaceae Genus: Scilla Plant Type: Bulbous perennial Flowering Period: February to April Height & Spread: 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) tall Clumps will...

Scilla luciliae (Glory-of-the-Snow)

Grow Guide: Scilla luciliae (Glory-of-the-Snow) 🌸 Botanical Name: Scilla luciliae (formerly Chionodoxa luciliae)🌍 Common Name: Glory-of-the-Snow 🌼 Flowering Time Months: February – April Details: One of the earliest...

Growing Olive Trees in the UK

Growing Olive Trees in the UK: A Gardener’s Guide Olive trees (Olea europaea) have long been associated with the warm Mediterranean, but they can thrive...

Tulip (Tulipa spp.) Grow Guide

Tulip (Tulipa spp.) Grow Guide Overview:Tulips are spring-flowering bulbs known for their vibrant colors and elegant shapes. Native to Central Asia, they thrive in temperate...

Kniphofia Grow Guide

Kniphofia Grow Guide Kniphofia, commonly known as Red Hot Poker, is a striking perennial known for its tall, torch-like flower spikes in shades of red,...

Peony Grow Guide

Peony Grow Guide Peonies are a garden favorite, known for their fragrant, large blooms that offer long-lasting beauty and elegance. With the right care, these...

Forsythia Grow Guide

Forsythia Grow Guide Forsythia is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub known for its bright yellow flowers that signal the arrival of spring. It is an easy-to-grow...

Magnolia Grow Guide

Magnolia Grow Guide Magnolias are iconic flowering trees and shrubs known for their large, showy blooms and often fragrant flowers. They thrive in a variety...

Fritillaria Grow Guide

Fritillaria is a genus of striking and unusual spring-flowering bulbs, prized for their exotic, nodding flowers and bold presence in the garden. With species...

Prunus cerasifera ‘Nigra’

Common Name: Black Cherry PlumBotanical Name: Prunus cerasifera 'Nigra'Family: RosaceaeHardiness Zone: RHS H5 (Hardy in most of the UK), USDA Zone 4-9Origin: Cultivar of...

Viburnum tinus (Laurustinus)

Local Gardener Grow Guide: Common Name: LaurustinusFamily: AdoxaceaeType: Evergreen shrubHeight: 2-4 meters (6-13 feet)Spread: 2-3 meters (6-10 feet)Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 8-10, tolerating...

Syringa (Lilac)

Plant Grow Guide: Syringa (Lilac) Taxonomy Scientific Name: Syringa spp. Family: Oleaceae Common Names: Lilac Origin Native Range: Southeastern Europe to eastern Asia. Plant Type Type: Deciduous shrub or small tree Position Light: Full...

Narcissus (Daffodils)

Plant Grow Guide: Narcissus (Daffodils) Taxonomy Scientific Name: Narcissus spp. Family: Amaryllidaceae Common Names: Daffodil, Narcissus, Jonquil Origin Native Range: Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. Plant Type Type: Herbaceous perennial bulb Position Light:...

Ribes sanguineum (Flowering Currant)

Plant Grow Guide: Taxonomy Scientific Name: Ribes sanguineum Family: Grossulariaceae Common Names: Flowering Currant, Red-flowering Currant Origin Native Range: Western North America, from British Columbia to California. Plant Type Type: Deciduous...

Can You Grow Oranges in the UK?

Growing oranges in the UK can be challenging due to the cooler climate, but it’s possible with the right care and conditions. Here's how...

How to Grow Viburnum tinus : Month-by-Month Guide

Viburnum tinus, or Laurustinus, is an evergreen shrub that provides year-round interest. Its main flowering period spans November to April, with clusters of pinkish-white...

How to Grow Chaenomeles

Chaenomeles, commonly known as flowering quince, is a stunning addition to UK gardens, renowned for its early blooms and decorative fruits. These hardy shrubs...

How to Force Hyacinths to Flower Early

Hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis) are beloved for their vibrant colours and fragrant blooms, making them a popular choice for spring gardens and indoor displays. They’re...

How to Grow Agapanthus in the UK

Agapanthus, also known as African lily, is a striking plant renowned for its clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers held on tall stems. These elegant blooms,...

How to Grow Muscari in the UK

Muscari, commonly known as grape hyacinths, are charming spring-flowering bulbs that bring a burst of colour to UK gardens. Known for their clusters of...
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