20 JULY 2019AMATEUR GARDENING 31Aralia cachemirica
Kashmir spikenard is a perennial with large green leaves that flush a coppery
purple in autumn, plus pannicles of white summer flowers followed by purple
berries. Needs moist, well-drained soil, in sun or semi-shade. H: 6½-13ft (2-4m).Top tips for using big plants
Mix and match different foliage shapes, sizes,
textures and colours – planted side by side they
will look doubly stunning.
Create a layered look – and allow the sun in- by using plants of different heights in clumps.
For an exotic feel, combine big-leaved
specimens with those that have bright flowers
(such as crocosmia, dahlias and Tithonia).
Jungle-style plants are ideal for summer-
autumn, but ensure the garden also has spring
bulbs, evergreens and winter-flowering shrubs.
Try these shady giants...
Fatsia japonica
AGM
The generous
palmate leaves
of the evergreen
Japanese aralia
will create a
‘jungle’ effect in
shade or semi-shade
(the foliage yellows in sun). Grow
as a shrub; or prune to a single-
stemmed tree. H: 6½-13ft (2-4m).IF you live in a very cold area, or if
a harsh winter is forecast, wrap up
tender plants (such as bananas and
tree ferns) at the end of autumn.
Straw or bracken looks more
attractive than fleece. Avoid
bubblewrap, which causes rotting
- as will leaving the plant wrapped
for too long; unwrap as soon as the
cold weather passes. Bring tender
plants in containers indoors.
of the evergreenshade or semi-shade
(the foliage yellows in sun). GrowProtect tender plants with
straw and fl eeceWinter protection
for tender plants Mahonia x media
‘Winter Sun’ AGM
This architectural
evergreen sends
up tall rings of
glossy, spiky
leaves that are the
perfect partner to its
scented yellow winter
flowers. Likes well-drained soil
in shade or semi-shade.
H: 6½-13ft (2-4m).
20 JULY 2019AMATEUR GARDENING 31Top tips for using big plants
Mix and match different foliage shapes, sizes,
textures and colours – planted side by side theyFlowers in hot colours, like
crocosmias, work well with
jungly plants