HIDDEN IN LONDON
Hidden Green Away, behind or even above London’s busy street there are many secret spots for workers and resident to hide away in a unique setting where nature still rules. London contains almost 200 green spaces, from hidden courtyards to rooftop gardens and amazing hidden walkways and this planting journal is inspired by the unknown. It will introduce some delightful oases varying in scale and planting schemes, secret to the majority of London workers. Just don’t tell anyone where they are.
pg 06
pg 14
pg 22
New Street Square
St. Dunstan in the East
Neo-Bankside
pg 36 Isabella Plantation
[Site locations within the UK]
INDEX
New Street Square Designer: Biotecture Location: Fetter Lane, London Completion Date: 2008 Visiting Date: 20/08/2013 Planting Scheme Type: Commercial
West
North
South
PLANTS (More info below) PT’GC’
BC
H’R’
EF’EV’
OJ
AS
LH’AB’
NEW STREET SQUARE The New Street Square wall was designed in collaboration with Clarke Associates and commissioned by Biotecture as a replacement for an under-performing green wall in Central London. I chose this site because greenwalls in London are now seen as embodying the on-trend concept of ‘urban ruralism’. Experiencing previous failures there was an initial setback between the switching off of irrigation water which resulted in severely thinning on the west face, fears it would end like the £100,000 high-profile wall at Paradise Park children’s centre in Islington, North London which died. The design is a repeated matrix background with random clusters of plants, reminiscent of army camouflage. Incorporating a modular system constructed from plastic panels and woodland mix to all sides as the area is completely sheltered shaded in by the larger surrounding buildings getting small sunlight. Effectively combining a small range of species that cover aspects from ornamental to providing splashes of season colour, texture and forms. The end result is a visually striking landmark that stands between a square and office block, an attractive feature from all sides.
IMAGE OF DISPLAY AREA PLANTING
CONTRAST shade planting used to green an office
Ophiopogan japonicus Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Mondo Grass
Ruscaceae
East Asia
Clump forming
H= 15-25cm S= 30-40cm
Ornamenal Grass
Moderate-Fast
Aesthetic
Planted within strong vertical lines to accent its weeping, narrowly linear curved, dark green leaves. It has strong shapes and forms that provides its success within this scheme. Though some old foliage are dying and fading in colour it still has shape. The beauty of this perennial with great foliage is that it adds interest to scheme even when they it is not in bloom. Because of its terrific foliage the flowers aren’t even needed. These aesthetics makes it an ideal companion in both combination containers and in the landscape since it offers and will continue to offer something to look at all season.
Function
Ophiopogon is an interesting ground cover for sheltered and protected small areas and is extensively used as low maintenance ground cover. Ophiopogon japonicus will tolerate any position but needs some compromise. A fine groundcover that stays small, it’s perfect for entry gardens, courtyards and atriums. Plant as a linear edging in formal shade gardens or in small clusters in Asian gardens. In this case it is great for geometric layouts in postmodern and tropical schemes.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Light lilac to white in Summer
Fruits
Blue glove-shaped in Summer
Light tol.
Part, Full Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Maintenance
No serious insect or disease problems. Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. For a neat appearance, remove old foliage before new leaves emerge.
Heuchera ‘Regina’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Alum root ‘Regina’
Saxifragaceae
Native Cultivar
Clumpforming
H= 0.1-0.5m S= 0.1-0.5m
Herbaceous Perennial
Average
Aesthetic
Located in clumped introduction on the wall, the heuchera on site has progressed from its original deep bronze-purple tones to a more subdued silvery grey green that brings forth a cooler settings. The rounded, lobed, long-petioled leaves form a basal mound it becomes a lovely front border specimen. Its flowers show off on long tall stems which with being planted on a wall are rotated 90 degrees and have a stunning shooting effect, adding great ornamental structure to a flattened forms.
Function
Heuchera blends easily with most other perennials in the landscape. Because of their low, mounding habit, they are often used as edging along paths or in containers. More effective when massed as a ground cover or group and works effectively within border or naturalised planting schemes like this.
Maintenance
Remove stems of faded flowers to encourage additional bloom. In cold winter climates, a winter mulch applied after the ground freezes will help prevent root heaving. Susceptible to vine weevil, bud eelworms.
Foliage
Purple/Pale Grey/Silver in Spring/ Summer/Autumn/
Flower
Pink in Spring/Summer
Fruits
Orange scarlet in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun,Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Neutral, Loam or Sand
Asplenium scolopendrium Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Hart’s tongue fern
Aspleniaceae
Northern Europe
Tufted
H= 0.1-0.5m S= 0.1-0.5m
Fern
Slow-medium
Aesthetic
It is shown off to best effect in a natural-looking context, alongside other ferns, or spring bulbs. he rhizome bears It is an usual fern I haven’t come across before where its fronds are whole and undivided, giving the plant a more substantial appearance than most other ferns. Furthermore the undersides of mature fronds are attractively marked with conspicuous linear brown stripes. Asplenium has a high ornamental value with its erect-arching clumps of tongue-shaped leathery, bright green fronds whose wavy margings play alongside large leaved species such as the bergenia. Though it needs cutting back of old foliage it is a strong addition to this scheme.
Function
A lovely, evergreen hart’s tongue fern that is both eyecatching and versatile. Shiny, wavy-edged fronds unfurl in early spring, and remain all year. Used to show off to best effect a natural looking context along other shade planting, it works well at the edge of a woodland area, under trees, or in a shady mixed border
Maintenance
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/Autumn/WInter
Light tol.
Part, Full Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Alkaline, Neutral, Loam, Chalk, Sand or Clay
No serious insect or disease problems. Root rot can be a problem in poorly drained soils. Any damaged fronds may be removed in early spring, just before new growth emerges. The most important thing to bear in mind is that the plant must not receive the harsh midday sun, as this can cause much damage to the fronds.
Bergenia cordifolia Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Heartleaf bergenia
Saxigragaceae
Russia
Bushy
H= 0.5-1m S= 0.5-1m
Herbaceous Perennial
Moderate
Aesthetic
Bergenia cordifolia is an evergreen perennial with a clump forming habit. Clumped in small areas its leathery, crinkle edged rounded leaves bring forth a wonderful accompaniment to heavily textured shade plants. Full leaved in shape for fern and such it brings arrangements to the green wall surface. The Bergenia looks healthy and is readily becoming reddish with a lustrous gleam on its surface and will shine later in future.
Function
Bergenia has a clump forming habit so is primarily grown as a ground cover for woodland or shade gardens. It accents edges with its good texture and form, unless heavily massed. And produces a flash of colour to evergreen themed gardens. Shaded border fronts or rock gardens. Ground cover for woodland or shade gardens.
Maintenance
Highly tolerable it requires little to no maintenance. Flower heads may be removed if untidy or faded. It may be lifted and divided in early spring. No serious insect or disease problems.
Foliage
Green in Spring/Summer/Autumn Purple in Winter
Flower
Dark Pink in Spring
Fruits
Showy capsule in Spring
Light tol.
Full Sun,Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Acidic, Alkaline, Neutral, Sand, Clay, Chalk or Loam
Pachysandra terminalis ‘Green Carpet’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Japanese spurge ‘Green Carpet’
Buxaceae
East Asia
Mat forming
H= .0.1-0.5m S= 0.5-1m
Shrub
Slow
Aesthetic
Lustrous. Leathery. Green. Pachysandra’s creeping stems and short upright branches bearing leathery leaves clustered at the tips are spread completely surrounding the wall as a ground cover, in some places where it has dominance. It is on site in the form of a ‘green carpet’ looking dense, compact but bringing a shiny and healthy green exterior to the once failing green wall. Because of its extent of use it promotes the health and colour of the green wall. Overlooked but providing year long foliage. Extending colour in future whilst providing small interesting clusters of forms.
Function
When discussing function and structure within this vertical scheme it is clear Pachysandra is the support in this scheme. Extremely popular as a ground cover for a variety of shady locations such as this it provides and massed, almost indestructible supporting ground cover.
Maintenance
No serious insect or disease problems. Leaf blight is a potentially serious problem which can necessitate remedial fungicide applications. Root stem rot may also occur. Watch for scale and mites.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
White in Summer
Fruits
White drupes in Summer
Light tol.
Part, Full Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald Gaiety’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Spindle ‘Emerald Gaiety’
Celastaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= 0.5-1m S= 1-15m
Climber Shrub
Moderate-Fast
Aesthetic
I will honestly say, I didn’t notice this at first till it stared me in the face and I couldn’t help but see it in other places from then on. Used scarcely in this scheme, the ‘Emerald Gaiety’ lives up to its name displaying small bushes of rounded leaves with irregular white margins. The irregular but creamy white margins is where the interest lies and in broader sense also the contrast. Because it is hidden away under larger leaves its striking colour shimmers away and stands out underneath. Looking good right now it will be even better in future when white turns into pink.
Function
It forms a striking accent plant that holds its own in a sea of forms and shapes but making a good foil for the ornamental ferns and heuchera. Simplistic in appearance and function, it provides alternative foundations and accents nearby vegetation. It can take small space or be massed and used as low hedging, ground cover or within a mixed shrub border where it has winter interest.
Maintenance
Tip prune young plants in mid to late spring to encourage bushy growth and apply a generous 5-7cm mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant. Remove any plain green-leaved shoots as soon as they appear, cutting them back to the original branch.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Pale Green in Summer
Fruits
Orange pod-like berry in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Lavandula angusifolia ‘Hidcote Blue’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
English lavender ‘Hidcote’
Lamiaceae
Mediterranean
Bushy
H= 0.1-0.5m S= 0.5-1m
Herbaceous Perennial
Moderate
Aesthetic
Lavandula, planted within the green wall mainly at the top near the roof presumably to catch as much sunlight. The ‘Hidcote’ variety has a cool silvery leaved exterior that blends in with the green walls colours, however it is massed together created a sea of dense spikes to a largely flat wall. In this scheme it is clear of its job, colour. The colour provides a contrast from at a time where most things stay just green. Though at the time of my visit the seed heads are decaying and all colour is lost but its shape is strong. As fragrant as it its colourful, the lavender in this scheme is a wonderful addition to the otherwise shade loving companions.
Function
A versatile garden perennial not just for a corner in a herb garden. It provides grey mid summer colours, contrasting to perennial, rock garden and in this case shade garden planting. Can be effectively used like in this scheme when massed as an edger or low hedge.
Maintenance
Root rot commonly attacks plants grown in poorly drained soils. Remove faded flowers to promote continued bloom. Prune to shape in spring after new leaves appear. Prune back to 8” in spring every 3 years to control plant size and to promote robust, new growth.
Foliage
Grey/Silver in Spring/Summer/Autumn/Winter
Flower
Dark Purple in Summer
Fruits
Brown in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun/ South, West, East, North-facing/Sheltered
Soil tol.
Well-drained/ Acid, Alkaline, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
TEXTURE Lavandula adding depth to the planting scheme
St.Dunstan in the East Designer: London Architects and Parks Department Location: London Bridge, London Completion Date: 1971 Visiting Date: 27/08/2013 Planting Scheme Type: Courtyard
Church Side House
PLANTS (More info below) Lawn
Wall
Shrub Planting
Shade Planting
ST.DUNSTAN IN THE EAST St Dunstan is a small green mark on the map of the Central London. It is hidden between glass buildings, busy streets and cafe shops and can be easily missed, if you don’t pay attention (As I found out on occasions). St. Dustan Church was originally built in 1100 the church was affected by both the Great Fire and the Blitz. Amongst the ruins in 1970, the then London Architects and Parks Department planted twisting climbers and exotic plants amongst the medieval church ruins to create the secluded treasure it is now. The west-facing spot consists of several little rooms and a sheltered courtyard area alongside an imaginative planting scheme of unusual trees, climbers and flowers growing amongst the ruined arches and heavy London clay soil. Whilst maintained, the climbers have dominated the tracery. The planting scheme has no real design or direction but has been continually added on and let to grow beautifully creating a unique and outstanding example of space which has maximised scarce resources for London citizens to get away.
IMAGE OF DISPLAY AREA PLANTING
ENCLOSURE dense planting within small quarters creating a private, warm getaway
Vitis coignetiae Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Crimson glory vine
Viaceae
East Asia
Climbing
H= 1-1.5m S= 0.7-0.9m
Climber
Fast
Aesthetic
Dominance and beauty is the best way to describe the appearance of vitis within the site. Reclaiming the church and largely giving its name the attractive lobed leaves provide excellent foliage all throughout the site that captures you. The vitis is definitely strong and leaves growing in size, so much when next to it changes your scale of view.
Function
The ornamental vines are cultivated for their foliage and fruits. It does well trained against a wall or over a trellis, or through a large tree or this case wall. Fast growth and beautiful foliage turns even greater in autumn when turning red and flaming up the location.
Maintenance
There are maintenance issues on site with vitis, it is so large it has become a health and safety issue to prune back at its top edges. Vitis may be affected be powdery mildew and honey fungus.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Orange/Red in Autumn
Flower
Green in Summer
Fruits
Black berries in Autumn
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Trachelospermum jasminoides Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Star Jasmine
Apocynaceae
East Asia
Climbing
H= 4-8m S= 4-8m
Climbing Shrub
Fast
Aesthetic
Another climber, this time attractive and woody with rich dark green leaves twining round trellis lines and cracks. It is a slightly more simplistic climber in an aesthetic sense but its twining nature and growth shape makes up for it. Contrasting from the dominant vitis it provides for a second natural look, a breather almost. Doing well although not much of a show till it flowers or turns bronze in winter time.
Function
It is an excellent trellised or espaliered vine it supports the scheme and covers the walls quickly. Functional and can be used in a pot with smaller plants or plant as an evergreen groundcover under tall trees. Used within borders or woodland gardens it also provides the sweetly fragrant starry white flowers from which it gained its name in the summer.
Maintenance
No serious insect or disease problems. Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Pruning time: early spring.
Foliage
Green in Spring, Autumn, Summer Dark Red in Winter
Flower
White in Summer
Fruits
Brown pod in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Par Shade/South-facing/ Sheltered
Soil tol.
Well-drained/ Acid, Alkaline, Neutral, Chalk, Sand or Loam
Wisteria sinensis Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Chinese wisteria
Papilionaceae
East Asia
Climbing
H= >12m S= >8m
Climber Shrub
Fast
Aesthetic
Despite the general beauty known about Chinese wisteria, there isn’t much to say for it right now except for its vigorously expanding foliage that will earlier in the year would’ve produced a dramatic floral display. Despite it’s almost lime green foliage contrast, it is too dominating in my view, which is good for when it is flower but its dominance right now is too much overtaking the presence of smaller vegetation nearby when it really isn’t contributing much to the scheme as of now.
Function
Taking over the walls of the church it is an excellent freestanding arbours, pergolas, posts, trellises, fences or terrace walls, and can be particularly effective when grown near or above patios where the flowers can be enjoyed in season. Functions for structure aswell as colour.
Maintenance
No special care is required, however foliage should be cut to the ground in early spring before new growth occurs. It has no significant insect or disease problems but should be grown in containers.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer
Flower
Pale Purple in Spring
Fruits
Legume in Spring
Light tol.
Full Sun,Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Acidic, Alkaline, Neutral, Sand, Clay, Chalk or Loam
Pulmonaria officinalis Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Common lungwort
Boraginaceae
Europe
Bushy
H= 0.1-0.5m S= 0.1-0.5m
Herbaceous Perennial
Moderate
Aesthetic
This clump-forming lungwort hybrid is more valued for its attractive foliage than its flowers. It features mostly basal clumps of large green leaves spotted silver-white and drooping clusters of large, funnel-shaped, white flowers. Set at the front against hostas and ferns, the lungwort provide a perfect shade accompaniment that looks attractive especially as an edging within the site.
Function
Best grown in groups in shaded areas of the rock garden, border front or woodland garden or massed as a ground cover for smaller areas.. Foliage usually remains attractive after bloom and throughout the summer as long as plants continue to receive sufficient moisture.
Maintenance
Foliage
Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Blue and Pink in Spring
Fruits
Nutlet in Spring
Light tol.
Part Shade, Full Shade/ West, East, North-facing/Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Acidic, Alkaline, Neutral, Sand, Clay, Chalk or Loam
No serious insect or disease problems. Slugs and powdery mildew are occasional problems. Leaves can depreciate considerably in extremely hot weather or too much sun.
Actinidia kolomikta Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Kolomikta
Actinidiaceae
East Asia
Climbing
H= 4-8m S= 4-8m
Climber Shrub
Moderate-Fast
Aesthetic
A sad case here of a wonderful bright species known for its unusual variegated leaves. Identified as a male by its well-known white tipped, heart shaped green leaves. The plant shows some variegation that is noticeable from afar, however as you come closer you will see a third, decaying colour. The climber isn’t doing well and it shows from one look. Overall its shape still creates a nice ornamental value to an otherwise bland wall.
Function
This vine can be grown both for its beautiful foliage and its fruit. Its vigorous growth habit makes it suitable for a variety of cover-type uses such as trellises, arbours, patio overheads, fences, or walls. The unusual, overlapping foliage looks marvellous on a sunny, protected wall.
Maintenance
Plant in a sheltered spot. Tie the main stems on to a series of horizontal, galvanised wires. In early spring, remove any crossing, diseased or overcrowded stems. With this case there is too much shade produced by its south facing location which diminished its foliage colour. Prune to control size. No serious disease or insect problems.
Foliage
Green and Whie in Spring Green and Pink in Summer
Flower
White in Summer
Fruits
Kiwi fruit in Autumn
Light tol.
Full Sun/South Facing/Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Acanthus mollis ‘Hollard’s Gold’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Bear’s breeches ‘Hollard’s Gold’
Acanthaceae
Native Cultivar
Clumpforming
H= 1-1.5m S= 0.7-0.9m
Herbaceous Perennial
Moderate
Aesthetic
LAn apparent new addition the ‘Hollard’s Gold’ is a clump-forming, semi-evergreen understorey where its glossy, deeply lobed, yellow-green leaves bring a strong focal point in the shade garden location. The gold tinged leaves are distinctive further displayed through its coarse upright habit that adds texture to sunny gardens. Bringing wonderful contrasts in both shape and colour to its darker coloured lungworts and hostas.
Function
It is an old-fashioned garden favourite for its showy foliage that’s commonly planted in historic gardens across Europe and has good reasons for finding its place now in this historic church. Ornamental interest for the future.
Maintenance
Once spent, the old blooms should be cut back to make best of the attractive semi-evergreen foliage Free draining and self-seeding so almost impossible to dig out once established.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Burgundy in Summer
Fruits
Purple-black in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Trachycarpus fortunei Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Windmill Palm
Arecaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= >12m S= 1.5-2.5m
Tree
Average
Aesthetic
With two on site the upright, unbranching stem is clothed with fan-shaped, rich large palmate fan-shaped dark green leaves that push out in all outward directions to you. Giving the image of drooping, the tree provides an exotic linkage you wouldn’t expect in a church courtyard. Oddly complimenting the space, beddings and visually working well within small quarters
Function
A wonderful plant for exotic and jungle-style planting schemes. Growing as a single, hairy trunk it begins as a foundation plant that eventually matures as a tall, thin column.Because it does not branch, and keeps a very tight foliage head, it fits very well into small spaces. Here it frames the entrance doorway whilst bringing evergreen foliage that is unique and attractive in winter.
Maintenance
In autumn wrap plants with a protective layer of hessian or frost fleece and apply a deep, dry mulch of straw or bracken around the base of the plant. Watering can be reduced after establishment. Feed with a general purpose fertilizer before new growth begins in spring.
Foliage
Dark green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Pale Yellow in Summer
Fruits
Black Dark Blue fruit in Autumn
Light tol.
Full Sun, Parth Shade/South, West, East Facing/Sheltered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Hakonechloa macra ‘All Gold’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
All Gold Japanese Fores Grass
Poaceae
East Asia
Clumping
H= 0.6-0.9m S= 0.6-0.9m
Ornamental Grass
Slow
Aesthetic
An eye-catching small ornamental grass, whose cascading hummocks of vividly striped bright yellow and green striped foliage are a nice visual interest when walking into the site. The narrow leaves keep their colour throughout the season, and often when the plant is grown. It’s dramatic foliage and habit stands out significantly next to the dull coloured painted ferns but is also used in this sense for its context and exotic feel. Foliage
Yellow in Spring, Autumn, Summer
It is useful as a simple understorey to light shrubs and as a soft edging to paths or steps. The clean, minimalist style of this grass makes it a good choice for formal courtyards or in minimalist urban planters. Though this grass does spread by stolons, it is a slow grower and will not rapidly overtake its neighbours.
Flower
Tan in Summer
Fruits
Rose coloured in Summer
Maintenance
Light tol.
Part, Full/North, West, South, East-facing/Exposed or Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Acid, Alkaline, Neutral, Chalk, Sand or Loam
Function
Incorporate lots of well-rotted garden compost into the planting hole. Leave flower heads to dry out through the winter, adding valuable texture to plantings. Apply a light mulch (3cm) of well-rotted garden compost after cutting back old foliage and before new growth emerges in spring.
VIEWPOINT Trachycarpus and Hakonechloa bringing in an exotic element
Neo-Bankside Designer: Gillespies LA Location: Southwark, London Completion Date: 2011 Visiting Date: 14/09/2013 Planting Scheme Type: Residential
NEO-BANKSIDE The scheme is designed for the setting for Native Land and Grosvenor’s upmarket housing development in Central London. NEO Bankside creates a west-facing, sheltered permeable space where the planting scheme offers different levels of interest that you can’t find within the area. Working around trees planted in raised strips to allow for optimal planting conditions. The landscape is stunning with the colour embedded even through the winter months. Combining a graphic language with rich and dynamic woodland and meadow planting unrestricted by a budget that looks good from both ground level and from the flats. A harmonious effect with many elements and a text book example of how a landscape architect’s involvement should work.
Graveled Planting
Meadow Planting
Woodland Planting
Ornamental Planting
Pachysandra terminalis Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Bear’s breeches ‘Hollard’s Gold’
Acanthaceae
Native Cultivar
Clumpforming
H= 1-1.5m S= 0.7-0.9m
Herbaceous Perennial
Moderate
Aesthetic
Lustrous. Leathery. Green. Pachysandra’s creeping stems and short upright branches bearing leathery leaves clustered at the tips are spread completely surrounding the wall as a ground cover, in some places where it has dominance. It is on site in the form of a ‘green carpet’ looking dense, compact but bringing a shiny and healthy green exterior. Because of its extent of use it promotes the health and colour of the green wall. Overlooked but providing year long foliage. Extending colour in future whilst providing small interesting clusters of forms.
Function
When discussing function and structure within this vertical scheme it is clear Pachysandra is the support in this scheme. Extremely popular as a ground cover for a variety of shady locations such as this it provides and massed, almost indestructible supporting ground cover.
Maintenance
No serious insect or disease problems. Leaf blight is a potentially serious problem which can necessitate remedial fungicide applications. Root stem rot may also occur. Watch for scale and mites.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Burgundy in Summer
Fruits
Purple-black in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Eragrostis curvula Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
African love grass
Poaceae
African
Bushy
H= 1-1.5m S= 0.5-1m
Poales
Moderate - Fast
Aesthetic
The main component of this small off-skirt site, the tufted, perennial with drooping leaves mostly concentrated around the base of the tree has branches out and weeped itself over surrounding vegetation. Ignoring roles and tufted itself around to bring golden hay colour, bladed textures but also a sense of movement in the planting scheme. It is dying down but livens up the space with its colour.
Function
Used for pasture and hay . It is an easy plant used generally within the stabilisation of road verges and terraces, water discharge areas, and banks of earth tanks, and sown in strips for control of wind erosion.
Maintenance
Foliage
Dark Green Spring/Summer
Flower
Green and Grey/Silver in Summer
Fruits
Insignificant
Light tol.
Sun/East, South, West-Facing/ Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Acidic, Alkaline, Neutral, Sand, Chalk or Loam
As foliage becomes fibrous rapidly, and seedheads emerge, it is important to mow regularly. HOWEVER NOT IN THIS CASE, it is the unkept properties that have created this site. None known pest
RHYTHM Eragrostis along with other grasses bringing in movement
Persicaria affinis ‘Darjeeling red’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Knotweed ‘Darjeeling Red’
Polygonaceae
Himalayas
Matforming
H= 0.1-0.5m S= 0.1.0.5m
Herbaceous Perennial
Fast
Aesthetic
Using on the gravelled site the contrasting lance-shaped, dark green leaves establish erect spikes of pink and red flowers that brings intertwining shape and form standing on its own in a place of giants. The erect rat tail flower spikes rise in colours of white, pink into a ruby red becoming a highlight feature. It is small yet healthy and spread in small clumps to look effective.
Function
Persicaria makes excellent ground cover in soil that doesn’t dry out completely. It is an effective edger to informal small gardens that is an effective weed suppressant with effective colours. Persicaria affinis is useful en mass as an effective low growing ground cover. And it is suitable for planting on small gravelled areas such as this where low maintenance is required.
Maintenance
Foliage
Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Pink and Red in Summer/Autumn
Fruits
Dark red in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
It requires little to no maintenance. The flowers may dead headed to prolong the flowering period. Large clumps may be propagated by division in spring or autumn.
Teucrium fruticans ‘Azureum’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Azure tree germander
Lamiaceae
Europe
Bushy
H= 1-1.5m S= 1-1.5m
Shrub
Moderate - Fast
Aesthetic
This tough performer has grey-green leaves with silvery-white undersides that shimmer in the sunlight. It’s blue flowers provide some interest from afar at a glance whilst close up its grey green pointed leaves have a fine hairy nature. Clumped in one area the vegetation brings forth a cool nature that tones down the warm coloured grasses and accents the paving nearby.
Function
The blue flowers of this germander are much sought after in gardens. This shrub is used in the border as an accent with other blues or contrast it with bright coloured shrubs and perennials.
Maintenance
Requiring little maintenance, follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Watering can be reduced after establishment. Feed with a general purpose fertilizer before new growth begins in spring. Pruning time: early spring.
Foliage
Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Blue in Summer
Fruits
in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun/East, South, West-Facing/ Sheltered
Soil tol.
well-drained/ Alkaline, Neutral, Sand, Clay, Chalk or Loam
Lonicera Pileata Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Box-Leaf Honeysuckle
Caprifoliaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= 0.5-1m S= 1.5-2.5m
Shrub
Moderate - Fast
Aesthetic
A simple semi-evergreen that is densely spreading and interspersing within the small site. Though seen as bland, its leathery lustrous textured leaves contrast to the surrounding meadow type planting. It brings the space back some modernity, working best with the base silver gravel. Simple groundcover but needed.
Function
This species of Lonicera tends to grow laterally rather than vertically but is still trained usually into a hedge structure. In this case works well in a mixed shrub border ground cover that is massed together in parts. Hedging, screening, specimen shrub, game cover. Boxleaf Honeysuckle is resistant to both deer and rabbits, so is ideal in situations where these are a problem.
Maintenance
Susceptible to lots of diseases, pests and fungi such as the powdery mildew. Requires occasional pruning but otherwise low maintenance.
Foliage
Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Cream in Spring
Fruits
Red/Purple in Autumn
Light tol.
Part Shade, Full Sun/North, East, South, West-Facing/Sheltered or Exposed
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Acidic, Alkaline, Neutral, Sand, Clay, Chalk or Loam
Sarcococca confusa Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Sweet box
Buxaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= 1.5-2.5m S= 1-1.5m
Shrub
Moderate
Aesthetic
Honestly a truly handsome species. Working into the planting, the evergreen shrub is densely covered with dark, glossy green foliage. Lance-shaped, it provides the perfect dark leaved accompaniment to Lonicera that provides much-needed colour that does well in the winter when all other vegetation in this part has died down.
Function
Excellent ground cover or mixed border plant for shady areas. Ideal for a shady shrub or mixed border, the flowers are followed by long lasting, bright red berries as long as a male variety is planted close by.
Maintenance
Placed within the line of central meadow planting, the orange-brown streaks catch your eye immediately when walking past. Its clumped and pleasingly arched habit forms its own interest within a dense sea of vegetation that allows for it to hold its own but bring an autumn touch to the scene.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring, Autumn, Summer/Winter
Flower
White in Winter
Fruits
Black in Summer
Light tol.
Part, Full/North, West, South, East-facing/Exposed or Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Acid, Alkaline, Neutral, Chalk, Sand or Loam
IMAGE OF DISPLAY AREA PLANTING
ENTRANCE POINT woodland planting bringing forth a naturalistic feel with a modern twist
Helxine soleirolii Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Mind-your-own-business
Urticaceae
Europe
Matforming
H= 10cm S= 0.5-1m
Bedding
Fast
Aesthetic
The best way to describe Helxine soleirolii is a sea of green that does anything but make you mind your own business. Used on site as a low carpet-forming groundcover, it creeps around side bumping in levels whilst spreading through a strong bright green colour in a naturalised yet modern fashion. It is an ideal combination plant for the ferns, and jungle-style plants where the aspect is cool, moist and shady and the desired overall effect is soft, green and atmospheric.
Function
In this case it is ideal for creating an established atmosphere in the garden. It lends itself well to tropical-look gardens and can create a variety of effects. It softens the areas and looks good with flagstones and functions to get into the nooks in branches and used in this way to create quite magical results.
Maintenance
It is cut back by the frosts each year but regrows again in Spring. It is a vigorous grower and can be grown in a container if you don’t want it to spread too far.
Foliage
Green in Spring, Autumn, Summer
Flower
Pink and White in Summer
Fruits
n/a
Light tol.
Part Shade, Full Sun/North, West, South, East-facing/Exposed or Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but well-drained/ Acid, Alkaline, Neutral, Chalk, Sand or Loam
Athyrium filix-femina Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Lady fern
Athyriaceae
East Asia
Mounding
H= 1.3-2m S= 1-1.5m
Fern
Moderate-Fast
Aesthetic
Placed within the edges of woodland areas, the Athryrium has gently arching fronds that take the appearance of vegetation antennas. It shapes and nestles through the woodland vegetation, combining itself with other ferns. It adds to foundation planting, complementing the strongly dominative Helxine where it looks best with non-ferns. Continually strong and supportive in this scheme.
Function
As said it adds to foundation planting on sheltered exposures this sideyard planting setting to give this pass-through space a lush groundplane. Perfect for covering ground beneath shade trees and groves both deciduous and thrives in acidic conditions under needled evergreens. An important wild garden components of forest and woodland ecosystems.
Maintenance
Foliage
Green in Spring/Summer/Autumn
Flower
n/a
Fruits
n/a
Light tol.
Part Shade, Full Sun/North, West, South, East-facing/Exposed or Sheltered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
No significant pest or diseases, it is low maintenance that required the cutting of old foliage.
Stipa arundinacea Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Pheasant’s tail grass
Poaceae
East Asia
Climbing
H= 0.7-1m S= 1-1.2m
Poales
Fast
Aesthetic
Placed within the line of central meadow planting, the orange-brown streaks catch your eye immediately when walking past. Its clumped and pleasingly arched habit forms its own interest within a dense sea of vegetation that allows for it to hold its own but bring an autumn touch to the scene.
Function
One of the best and most versatile evergreen grasses, that will thrive in sun or shade, and glows shades of copper, gold and bronze in the autumn. It has a soft, arching habit, so works well among shrubs for textural contrast, or in a mixed or herbaceous border.
Maintenance
In spring, tease out dead foliage by gently running your fingers through it as if it were hair. It may self-seed, but simply pull out seedlings when you see them.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Sum/Aut Orange-Brown in Winter
Flower
White in Summer
Fruits
in Autumn
Light tol.
Full Sun/Partial Shade/ North,West,East,South Facing/ Sheltered or Exposed
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Agrostis capillaris Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Colonial bentgrass
Poaceae
East Asia
Upright
H= 0.2-1m S= 0.5-0.8m
Poales
Fast
Aesthetic
In comparison to the showy Stipa, the Agrostis has a delicate, well-separated appearance with its tiny spikelets. Growing strong, its delicate features still allow for visual links through whilst softening the surrounding stronger greens of ferns and woodland planting. A softener indeed.
Function
This delicately flowered grass has been included in the majority of agri-environmental schemes. It has a tiny seed and only needs including in mixtures at low levels. It is a creeping grass and, although it has little agricultural value, it is a very common species in old grasslands.
Maintenance
Moderate to high maintenance. It has a low tolerance for heat, salinity, water stress and traffic. It requires frequent irrigation, aerating and dethatching, and a relatively high level of fertilizer.
Foliage
Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Spikelet in Autumn
Fruits
Grain in Autumn
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Chimonobambusa marmorea Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Marbled Bamboo
Poaceae
East Asia
Tufted
H= 4-8m S= 1.5-2.5m
Bamboo
Moderate
Aesthetic
At first look an odd and usual feature, however graceful with foliage arranged in an attractive tiers creating a waterfall effect around a small entrance. The slender green leaves and bright yellow canes bring forth not only colour but a softer shade of colour amongst the greys and darker greens. Its drooping habit makes for it as a healthy, highly ornamental green centrepiece.
Function
Used as a screener here separating one site from the other, also a placement for a change of character settings. It has a gently spreading habit, making it useful for ground cover or as a decorative container plant.
Maintenance
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
n/a
Fruits
n/a
Light tol.
Part Shade/ South, West, East-facing/Shetered
Soil tol.
Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Aliki or Loam
Low maintenance but pruning and a root barrier for the underground.
Festuca gautieri Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Bearskin fescue
Poaceae
Europe
Clumpforming
H= 20-25cm S= 20-25cm
Poales
Slow
Aesthetic
This very original looking fescue has small cushions of greenery. It is very hardy and is perfect as ground cover, however within this scheme it is very awkwardly placed. Situating within a corner it looks more of a last minute put in, completely overshadowed by Helxine and losing its quality. The plant looks dry and unkept, sad for such a great grass.
Function
It is perfect for creating highlights in your beds. It can also be grown in planters at the foot of climbing plants for example. Alternatively as they have such a strong architectural shape they can be used on their own as feature plants in gravel gardens or pots. Has interesting foliage, Suitable for growing in containers and providing interest to more colourful show offs.
Maintenance
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Green in Summer
Fruits
Brown in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Grasses should be watered well in the summer months, particularly when they are establishing. Comb through the plant in winter to remove dead foliage. Divide large clumps every 2 or 3 years in spring.
MASK Anemone species charmingly masking unneeded views in
Anemone hybrida ‘Honorine Jobert’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Japanese anemone ‘Honorine Jobert’
Ranunculaceae
East Asia
Clumpforming
H= 1-1.5m S= 0.5-1m
Herbaceous Perennial
Fast
Aesthetic
One of my favourites on this site. It intrroduces a multitude of pure white flowers on graceful branching upright stems above a solid clump of dark green deeply cut leaves. The height of the woody-based perennial brings a change of scale and satisfying interest that is further distinguished by its elegant white flowers. Doing beautifully on site, the white open-faced flower have a delicate centre ring of yellow gold. Complementing the meadow plantation but also working as a centrepiece
Function
Lovely massed in the woodland setting. It has also been left undisturbed to spread and form a majestic group of Anemones. Perfect for beds and borders, it also accents woodland areas.
Maintenance
Follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Remove old flowers to prolong flowering. Cut back to the ground at the end of the season.Prone to nematodes; susceptible to caterpillars, slugs and flea beetles.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
White in Summer
Fruits
in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Anemone tomentosa ‘Robustissima’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Japanese anemone ‘Robustissima’
Ranunculaceae
East Asia
Suckering
H= 1-1.5m S= 0.1-0.5m
Herbaceous Perennial
Moderate
Aesthetic
Planted and complimenting alongside ‘Honorine Jobert’ it forms a low mound of grape-like green leaves, with taller branching stems of soft-pink cup-shaped flowers. The profuse silvery-pink flowers stand out amongst the scheme to provide excellent late season colour. ‘Robustissima’, despite its height as an airiness feel that plays through in its colour and surrounding calming environment.
Function
An extremely robust and vigorous plant that is best suited to naturalizing, however this plant needs plenty of room, and is sometimes used as a tall groundcover. It can overwhelm other plants and may become a nuisance in a bed. So in this case works best with other anemone species.
Maintenance
Divide in spring every couple of years to maintain control. Cut back to the ground at the end of the season. Can be weedy or invasive.Susceptible to caterpillars, slugs, flea beetles, synchytrium leaf gall and other pest, fungi and viruses.
Foliage
Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn
Flower
Pink in Autumn and Summer
Fruits
Purple-black in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Isabella Plantation Designer: Richmond Park CL Location: Richmond, London Completion Date: 2011 Visiting Dates: 15/04/2013 21/08/2013 Planting Scheme: Woodland Garden
Bog Garden
Azalea path
ISABELLA PLANTATION The Isabella plantation is a “secret” ornamental woodland garden situated within the 2500 acre Richmond Park, West of London. Unless known most visitors miss the secluded Isabella Plantation due to its fenced off appearance hiding its brilliance and blooms even when on full display. Once an unpromising and boggy area of the park, the Isabella plantation from the word “Isabel”, meaning dingy due to the soil, was enclosed in 1831. From a simple streamside walk, begun in the late 1940’s the woodland garden has grown to encompass around 42 acres of lawns and glades, streams and ponds, and heather and bog gardens. There is now a brighter palette with continual colour and bloom throughout the year, with ferns, exotic trees, shrubs, and the particularly striking azaleas and rhododendrons. The garden provides a successful rich and varied habitats for animal whilst popping with colour and aroma everywhere.
IMAGE OF DISPLAY AREA PLANTING
ENTICE kurume azaleas in full display around every corner
Rhododendron ‘Mother’s Day’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Azalea ‘Mother’s Day’
Ericaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= 0.5-1m S= 0.5-1m
Shrub
Moderate
Aesthetic
‘Mother’s Day’ is a spreading dwarf shrub to 60cm tall, with dark, glossy foliage, bronzed in winter, and rosy-crimson flowers . It enhances and softens its surroundings in a colour scheme environment where repetition occurs. Bringing forth unity with its flowers and colours.
Function
Kurume azaleas can be used in many ways in landscapes. In this scheme they function as specimen plants or focal points, en massed, frames for focal points, settings around a tree or among groups of trees, foundation planting, hedges, screens, reflections from pools, background for other plants, and container plants. They function in combination with other woody and companion plants.
Maintenance
Tip-pinch young plants to make them bushy; prune older, leggy plants to restore shape by cutting back to a side branch, leaf whorl, or cluster of latent buds. Do any extensive pruning in late winter or early spring (wait until danger of frost is past in colder areas).
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Red in Spring
Fruits
in Summer
Light tol.
Part Shade/ South, West, East/ Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Clay, Sand or Loam
Rhododendron ‘Sherwood Orchid’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Azalea ‘Sherwood Orchid’
Ericaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= 1-1.5m S= 0.7-0.9m
Shrub
Moderate
Aesthetic
An eye catching azalea bathed in stunning clusters of hot pink trumpet-shaped flowers with red spots at the ends of the branches in mid spring before the leaves. It has dark ever green foliage and enhances and softens its surroundings in a colour scheme environment where repetition occurs. Bringing forth unity with its flowers and colours.
Function
Sherwood Orchid Azalea will grow taller than other Kurume azaleas at maturity so it tends to be a little leggy. Kurume azaleas can be used in many ways in landscapes. In this scheme they function as specimen plants or focal points, en massed, frames for focal points, settings around a tree or among groups of trees, foundation planting, hedges, screens, reflections from pools, background for other plants, and container plants. They function in combination with other woody and companion plants.
Maintenance
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Magenta in Spring
Fruits
in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
No special care is required, however foliage should be cut to the ground in early spring before new growth occurs. It has no significant insect or disease problems but should be grown in containers.
Rhododendron x obtusum ‘Coral Bells’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Azalea ‘Coral Bells’
Ericaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= 1.2-2.4m S= 1.8-3m
Shrub
Moderate
Aesthetic
A healthy plant and an early midseason bloomer where simplicity plays key. This dwarf shrub has a beautiful shell-pink flowering that clearly enhances and softens its surroundings in a colour scheme environment where repetition occurs. Bringing forth unity with its flowers and colours.
Function
Kurume azaleas can be used in many ways in landscapes. In this scheme they function as specimen plants or focal points, frames for focal points, settings around a tree or among groups of trees, foundation planting, hedges, screens, reflections from pools, background for other plants, and container plants. They function in combination with other woody and companion plants.
Maintenance
Tip-pinch young plants to make them bushy; prune older, leggy plants to restore shape by cutting back to a side branch, leaf whorl, or cluster of latent buds. Do any extensive pruning in late winter or early spring (wait until danger of frost is past in colder areas). Azaleas because of their varied characteristics of plant size, forms, flower colors and bloom times are more versatile than other shrubs.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Pink in Spring/Summer
Fruits
in Summer
Light tol.
Partial Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Chalk, Clay, Sand or Loam
Rhododendron ‘Hino-crimson’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Azalea ‘Hino-crimson’
Ericaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= 0.1-0.5m S= 0.1-0.5m
Shrub
Moderate
Aesthetic
The featuring crimson red flowers and very small leaves provides for a highly saturated, highly complementing place within the scheme. It enhances and softens its surroundings in a colour scheme environment where repetition occurs. Bringing forth unity with its flowers and colours.
Function
Kurume azaleas can be used in many ways in landscapes. In this scheme they function as specimen plants or focal points, en massed, frames for focal points, settings around a tree or among groups of trees, foundation planting, hedges, screens, reflections from pools, background for other plants, and container plants. They function in combination with other woody and companion plants.
Maintenance
Rhododendrons and azaleas are susceptible to many insect and disease problems, including but not limited to canker, crown rot, root rot, leaf spot, rust, powdery mildew, aphids, borers, lacebugs, leafhoppers, mealybugs, mites, nematodes, scale, thrips and whitefly. A healthy plant in the proper environment with proper care should have limited problems, however.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Red in Spring
Fruits
in Summer
Light tol.
Part Shade/ South, West, East-facing/Sheltered
Soil tol.
Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Clay, Sand or Loam
Rhododendron ‘Orange Sherbet’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Azalea ‘Orange Sherbet’
Ericaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= 0.1-0.5m S= 0.3-1m
Shrub
Moderate
Aesthetic
On first glance you immediately notice its double, funnel shaped open flowers. Beautifully wavy and frilly in texture with a fresh orange colour contrasting from most of the other Azaleas. It enhances and softens its surroundings in a colour scheme environment where repetition occurs. Bringing forth unity with its flowers and colours.
Function
Kurume azaleas can be used in many ways in landscapes. In this scheme they function as specimen plants or focal points, en massed, frames for focal points, settings around a tree or among groups of trees, foundation planting, hedges, screens, reflections from pools, background for other plants, and container plants. They function in combination with other woody and companion plants.
Maintenance
Tip-pinch young plants to make them bushy; prune older, leggy plants to restore shape by cutting back to a side branch, leaf whorl, or cluster of latent buds. Do any extensive pruning in late winter or early spring (wait until danger of frost is past in colder areas).
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Orange in Spring/Summer
Fruits
in Summer
Light tol.
Part Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Clay, Sand or Loam
Rhododendron ‘Kirin’ Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Azalea ‘Kirin’
Ericaceae
East Asia
Bushy
H= 0.5-1m S= 0.5-1m
Shrub
Moderate
Aesthetic
An evergreen, compact and low growing shrub that has small, dark green, oval shaped and leathery textured foliage. The bell shaped flowers are small, musky pink and very prolific. It will grow well in pots or in the ground and is quite hardy.
Function
Rated by some as one of the best all round Azaleas to grow in due to its flowering capacity, overall toughness and versatility under different light conditions. Kurume azaleas can be used in many ways in landscapes. In this scheme they function as specimen plants or focal points, en massed, frames for focal points, settings around a tree or among groups of trees, foundation planting, hedges, screens, reflections from pools, background
Maintenance
Tip-pinch young plants to make them bushy; prune older, leggy plants to restore shape by cutting back to a side branch, leaf whorl, or cluster of latent buds. Do any extensive pruning in late winter or early spring (wait until danger of frost is past in colder areas).
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Pink in Spring/Summer
Fruits
in Summer
Light tol.
Part Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/Neutral, Clay, Sand or Loam
CENTREPIECE Gunnera’s interesting foliage forms a focal point to stream planting
Gunnera manicata Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Giant rhubarb
Gunneraceae
South America
Clumpforming
H= 1.5-2.5m S= 2.5-4m
Herbaceous Perennial
Fast
Aesthetic
Wow! The is the granddaddy of big-leaved perennials. No other plant can so thoroughly alter the scale of a garden while calling such attention to itself. Clumped up together displaying its huge, puckered toothed leaves it sheerely dominates your view towards it holding everything together. Looking healthy majority except for a leaf decaying and in need of pruning.
Function
Primarily grown for its gigantic leaves, but the flower spikes are also attractive and it is widely planted for ornamental reason. Like wet areas here it works well in water gardens and pond peripheries.
Maintenance
Foliage
Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/
Flower
Brown-Red in Summer
Fruits
Red-Green in Summer
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East/Exposed or Sheltered
Soil tol.
Poorly drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Clay, Sand or Loam
No serious insect or disease problems. Watch for slugs and scale.
Darmera peltata Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Umbrella plant
Saxifragaceae
North America
Clumpforming
H= 1-1.5m S= 0.5-1m
Herbaceous Perennial
Fast
Aesthetic
Upon notice near the waterways, Darmera has a distinct and long-lasting foliage statement that forms a lovely vaselike clump. Emerging from the ground followed by its healthy looking cupped leaves it rounds up waterland vegetation and characterises water areas.
Function
Effective in moist woodland areas, native plant gardens, boggy areas or along streams and ponds margins it helps naturalise waterside edges and areas. However this is a substantial plant that needs a large space.
Maintenance
Foliage
Green in Summer Red in Autumn
Flower
Pink in Spring
Fruits
in Spring
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East-facing/Exposed or Sheltered
Soil tol.
Poorly/ Acidic, Clay or Loam
No serious insect or disease problems. Leaf scorch may occur if soil moisture levels are not maintained. Usually trouble-free.
Calluna vulgaris Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Common Heather
Ericaceae
Europe
Bushy
H= 0.3-0.6m S= 0.3-0.6m
Shrub
Low
Aesthetic
Framing the conifers areas is calluna vulgaris and its cultivars. Upon my second visit it brings colourful new growth with its rose pink flower emerging in contrast to Erica bushes. Planted en mass it lights up from the evergreen surroundings and encapsulates the area enticing users.
Function
Used on site in borders and as background plants. Scotch heather has been used to combine well with dwarf conifers and deciduous shrubs. The smaller varieties are useful as ground covers or in a rock garden. More erect shrubs are effective when planted in mass on hillsides.
Maintenance
Prune annually in spring by cutting back flowered shoots to within an inch of previous year’s growth. During hot summers, spider mites may be a problem. Stem and root rot may occur, particularly during warm and humid summer weather.
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Pink in Summer/Autumn
Fruits
Brown in Autumn
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Clay, Sand or Loam
Erica carnea Common name
Family Name
Origin
Habit
Measure Size
Plant Type
Growth Rate
Winter heath
Ericacea
Europe
Bushy
H= 15-30cm S= 15-45m
Shrub
Slow
Aesthetic
Noticing its needle-like medium green are in whorls of four it features small urn-shaped pink blooms complimenting the heather colour scheme and brings unity to its surroundings with year long continual interest.
Function
The well-sited plants will form a dense ground cover. It has year-round attraction. Can be used in rock gardens or amongst slopes. More erect shrubs are effective when planted in mass on hillsides.
Maintenance
Foliage
Dark Green in Spring/Summer/ Autumn/Winter
Flower
Pink in Winter/Spring
Fruits
in Spring
Light tol.
Full Sun, Part Shade/ South, West, East, North-facing/Exposed or Shetered
Soil tol.
Well-drained or Moist but Well Drained/ Acidic, Neutral, Clay, Sand or Loam
No serious insect or disease problems. Root rot may occur in poorly drained soils. Powdery mildew, rust and wilt.
SHOW Calluna providing strong colours after everything has died down
B
IBLIOGRAPHY
http://www.rhs.org.uk/
Royal Horticultural Society www.royalparks.org.uk
The Royal Parks http://www.biotecture.uk.com/
Biotecture http://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/environment-and-planning/planning/planning-applications
City of London Council
VVV
LIBAAN WARSAME STUDENT NUMBER 110216238
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