Nature has blessed us with an incredible diversity of plant species. When it comes to enhancing the beauty of our surroundings, few things can rival the charm and elegance of carefully chosen plants. Let me tell you about these three captivating plant varieties: Nipponanthemum nipponicum, Photonia X fraseri ‘Corallina,’ and Phormium ‘Chocomint.’
Red
If you seek an evergreen shrub that adds a splash of vibrant color all year round, the Photonia X fraseri ‘Corallina’ is an excellent choice. This variety is known for its glossy, dark green leaves, which are complemented by brilliant shades of red on the new growth, it is more compact and lower growing that the better known P. ‘Red Robin’. P. ‘Corallina’ is an incredible landscape plant, providing an eye-catching focal point or a stunning foliage backdrop. Its adaptability to sun or partial shade and its tolerance of various soil types make it a versatile addition to any garden.
White
Nipponanthemum nipponicum, also known as the Nippon Daisy or Montauk Daisy, is a stunning perennial plant native to Japan. With its bright white, daisy-like flowers and glossy, dark green foliage, this plant adds a touch of elegance to any garden. One of its most remarkable features is its late-season bloom, providing a burst of color when most other plants have faded. The Nippon Daisy thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for landscaping or as a border plant. Its ability to attract butterflies and bees adds an extra ecological benefit to your garden. I have 3 plants, their domed growth habit adds strong form to the area throughout the summer and helps bring three different areas together visually, using forms to help harmonise the planting schemes.
My Tip!
I prune the plants quite hard in Spring, this encourages new growth to develop from the base, helping to maintain their neat leafy dome shape.
Chocolate
Phormium ‘Chocomint,’ a New Zealand flax cultivar, stands out for its bold and dramatic appearance. Its striking upright growth, accompanied by broad leaves showcasing shades of chocolate brown and green, creates a visually captivating display in any landscape. The ‘Chocomint’ variety grows well in moist, well-drained soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. This evergreen perennial is perfect for adding structure to flower beds or as an architectural accent.
I have a number of the planted in The Pylon Garden, their linear and robust leaves add structure and form to planting scheme all year round.
Including Nipponanthemum nipponicum, Photonia X fraseri ‘Corallina,’ and Phormium ‘Chocomint’ in your garden will undoubtedly elevate its beauty and allure. These plants not only enhance the visual appeal of your landscape but also offer easy maintenance and distinctive characteristics that make your garden stand out. Whether you are aiming for a traditional garden, a modern landscape, or something in between, these plants provide endless possibilities to explore. So, as you embark on your gardening journey, consider incorporating these remarkable plant varieties to create a haven of natural beauty right at your doorstep.
Ciaran The Gardener 