Fuchsia magellanica
The most common form of this plant has red and purple flowers (shown left), but there is also a more subtle form with pale pink flowers (shown right).
It is one of the hardiest Fuchsias, being able to withstand temperatures down to -10 deg C, and therefore can be grown outdoors with no protection in milder British gardens. The bush itself grows up to 3m tall and can be used for hedging in frost-free areas.
Prefers well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Benefits from a winter mulch and shelter from bitter winds, particularly in colder gardens.
Rosa glauca (hips)
This vigorous species rose may not have the spectacular flowers of modern roses, but it has other advantages which make it a useful garden plant.
The foliage is very attractive being greyish purple and the small, single pink flowers are followed by a multitude of scarlet hips.
It grows to about 2m in height and is fully hardy. Prefers well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, and a position in full sun, but will tolerate a range of less advantageous conditions.
Anemone 'Honorine Jobert'
This perennial forms a clump of palmate mid green leaves from which branched stems appear in late summer, bearing these simple white flowers. Height up to 1.5m.
They prefer moist soil rich in organic matter in sun or partial shade and may benefit from a mulch in cold areas. Hardy down to -15 deg C.
Cosmos bipinnatus
This is one of my favourite annuals, and is available in shades of white and pink. It is easy to grow and has the advantage of a tall and airy habit which blends in well with shrubs and perennials, unlike some of the bedding annuals.
If sown in May they will flower late and continue well into the autumn, frosts permitting.
Hyssopus officinalis
Hyssop is a compact Mediterranean shrub which is evergreen in mild climates. The small green leaves are aromatic and it produces blue, pink or white flowers from midsummer to early autumhn.
Grows to about 60cm high and is hardy down to -15 deg C. Butterflies and bees are attracted to the flowers. It prefers well-drained soil in full sun. Easy to sow from seed.
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