Spring Bulbs & Plants

English bluebells (Hyacinthoides non‑scripta) create one of the most recognisable spring displays: arching stems lined with fragrant, bell‑shaped blooms in deep, woodland blue. They’re a lovely way to bring a natural, British feel to gardens and wild corners.

They’re ideal for naturalising beneath deciduous trees, along shady hedgerows, or at the edge of a border where the soil stays cool. In the right spot, bulbs will spread steadily and form a beautiful carpet over time, returning reliably each spring and filling gaps before summer perennials wake up.

Bluebells prefer humus‑rich, moderately fertile soil that drains well but doesn’t dry out. If your soil is heavy or very sandy, improve it with leaf mould or compost to boost structure and moisture retention, and choose partial shade to keep the ground from baking.

Plant bulbs in autumn about 8cm deep and 8–10cm apart. Leave them undisturbed once planted—bluebells bulk up best when they’re allowed to settle and multiply in place, creating thicker clumps and more flower stems each year.

After flowering, let the foliage die back naturally to feed the bulbs for next year. Bluebells can spread in favourable conditions, so choose a planting area where you’re happy for them to roam and mingle, especially in woodland-style planting, alongside ferns and other shade lovers.

Dahlia ‘Arthur Hambley’ is a classic Giant Decorative variety, boasting enormous lavender-pink blooms that command attention in any garden border or floral display.

Standing tall at around 120cm, this robust variety produces huge, fully double flowers that can exceed 25cm in diameter. The petals are broad and slightly curved, creating a lush, full shape with a soft, silvery sheen that glows in the evening light.

Plant in full sun to maximise flowering potential, ensuring the soil is free-draining and enriched with organic matter. Due to the sheer weight of the blooms, robust staking is required from the moment of planting to prevent wind damage.

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and pinch out the growing tips in early summer to promote bushier growth and more flowering stems. Feed regularly with tomato fertiliser to fuel the production of its giant blooms.

Perfect for the back of the border, ‘Arthur Hambley’ creates a stunning backdrop for lower-growing perennials. Its long, strong stems make it an exceptional cut flower, where just a single stem can make a dramatic statement in a vase.

Dahlia ‘Labyrinth’ is a show-stopping Dinnerplate variety famous for its swirling, twisted petals and a mesmerizing colour palette that blends apricot, peach, and raspberry pink.

Growing to a substantial height of around 100cm, it produces massive blooms that can reach over 20cm across. The chaotic, wavy arrangement of the petals gives each flower a unique, romantic look, making it a favourite for luxury bouquets and wedding arrangements.

Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot in rich, fertile soil once all risk of frost has passed. Tubers should be planted around 15cm deep and spaced about 60cm apart to allow for vigorous growth. Staking is essential to support the heavy flower heads.

Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and feed with a high-potash fertiliser every two weeks once buds appear. Deadhead faded blooms regularly to encourage a continuous display of flowers right through to the first frosts.

An absolute must-have for the cutting garden, ‘Labyrinth’ pairs beautifully with deep purple Salvias or dark-leaved Dahlias. In borders, its warm, sunset tones bring a modern, exotic feel to late summer planting schemes.

Rudbeckia fulgida var. sullivantii ‘Goldsturm’ is an award-winning perennial that serves as the gold standard for late summer colour. Known as Black-Eyed Susan, it lights up borders with its cheerful, daisy-like blooms from August well into October.

This variety forms a slowly spreading clump of dark green, hairy foliage. It sends up branching, upright stems topped with large, deep yellow flowers featuring a prominent, cone-shaped dark brown centre that stands out sharply against the petals.

Plant in full sun or partial shade in a moist but well-drained soil. Unlike some other drought-lovers, Rudbeckia appreciates soil that holds some moisture, making it happier in clay or loam soils than in dry sand.

Water regularly during dry spells in summer to ensure maximum flowering performance. Deadhead faded blooms to encourage more buds, but consider leaving the last flowers of the season on the plant, as the seed heads provide food for birds like goldfinches in winter.

A brilliant choice for prairie-style planting and cottage borders, ‘Goldsturm’ is robust, reliable, and practically immune to pests. It pairs perfectly with purple Salvias, Veronicastrum, and the fading heads of Sedum for a rich, textural tapestry.

Sedum ‘Herbstfreude’ (best known as ‘Autumn Joy’) is an iconic late-season perennial that brings structure and changing colour to the garden just as other summer flowers begin to fade. It is prized for its succulent foliage and long-lasting flower heads.

The plant forms a sturdy, upright clump of fleshy, glaucous green leaves. Large, flat flower heads emerge in summer like broccoli florets, starting pale green, turning starry pink, and finally maturing to a rich rusty-red and copper in autumn.

Plant in full sun to prevent the stems from becoming leggy, in poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soil. This variety is exceptionally drought-tolerant and performs brilliantly in sandy or rocky soils where other plants might struggle.

Water sparingly once established; this plant resents "wet feet" and over-feeding, which can cause it to flop. Leave the dried flower heads on the plant over winter—they look beautiful frosted and provide shelter for insects before being cut back in early spring.

A brilliant choice for extending the season, ‘Autumn Joy’ provides vital nectar for late-flying butterflies and bees. It looks spectacular planted in groups or alongside ornamental grasses and purple Asters for a classic autumn display.

Salvia nemorosa ‘Ostfriesland’ (East Friesland) is a compact and highly reliable perennial sage, prized for its intense violet-purple flower spikes that bring long-lasting colour to sunny borders, gravel gardens, and wildlife-friendly planting schemes.

Forming a neat, low-growing mound of aromatic, grey-green foliage, it produces a profusion of stiff, upright stems packed with small, tubular blooms. Its dense, bushy habit makes it perfect for edging paths or adding structure without blocking views further back in the bed.

Plant in a fully sunny position for the most vibrant display, thriving in light, moderately fertile, and well-drained soil. This variety is famously drought-tolerant once established and performs exceptionally well in sandy or chalky conditions where other plants might struggle.

Water regularly during its first season to establish the roots. To extend the flowering season, cut back the faded flower spikes in mid-summer; this often triggers a fresh flush of blooms in early autumn. Clumps can be divided every few years in spring to maintain vigour.

A brilliant choice for attracting bees and butterflies, ‘Ostfriesland’ provides a rich splash of colour at the front of the border. It pairs beautifully with the silver foliage of Artemisias, the bright yellows of Rudbeckias, or the soft sway of ornamental grasses.

Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ is a standout hardy perennial, celebrated for its unique glowing violet-blue flowers held on striking, dark purple-black stems that create a dramatic vertical accent in sunny borders and gravel gardens.

Rising from a neat, basal rosette of aromatic, grey-green foliage, the slender spikes bloom profusely from early summer. The contrast between the dark stems and the vibrant petals makes this variety architecturally superior to other salvias, maintaining its form well without flopping.

Plant in a fully sunny position in light, moderately fertile, and free-draining soil. ‘Caradonna’ is drought-tolerant once established and hates winter wet, so ensure the ground does not become waterlogged during the colder months.

Water well during its first season to establish the root system. To encourage a second flush of flowers later in the season, cut back the faded flower spikes in mid-summer. The clumps can be divided in spring every few years to maintain vigour.

A brilliant choice for pollinators, ‘Caradonna’ is a magnet for bees and butterflies. Its vertical habit makes it an excellent partner for planting alongside roses, silver-leaved artemisias, or swaying ornamental grasses like Stipa tenuissima.

Dahlia ‘Seduction’ is an alluring decorative variety known for its elegant pink and purple picotee petals. Each bloom features a pale, milky-white base that is delicately edged with deep violet-pink, creating a defined and sophisticated outline.

The plant is robust and floriferous, producing a high volume of medium-sized flowers throughout the season. The distinct colouring of the petals gives the blooms a three-dimensional quality, making them pop against the dark green foliage.

Plant in full sun to partial shade, in soil that has been improved with compost. This variety is excellent for adding detail and intricacy to a border without overwhelming other plants with solid blocks of colour.

Keep the plant well-watered during dry spells and stake if necessary to support the weight of the flowers. Deadhead faithfully to ensure a display that lasts well into autumn, and protect the tubers from frost during winter.

A brilliant choice for romantic cottage gardens, ‘Seduction’ draws the eye with its intricate detailing and pairs beautifully with deep purple flowers like Salvia ‘Caradonna’ or dark-leaved Heucheras.

Dahlia ‘Rainbow Silence’ is a delightful decorative variety that features a harmonious blend of soft peach, lilac, and yellow tones. The petals transition gently between these warm, sunset hues, creating a multifaceted bloom that looks different from every angle.

This variety forms a bushy, medium-height plant with strong stems that display the flowers well above the foliage. The blooms are fully double and rounded, offering a classic dahlia shape with a modern, pastel colour twist.

Plant in a sunny, sheltered position in moist, fertile soil. The complex colouring of the petals is best appreciated in a spot where the flowers can be viewed up close, such as near a path or patio.

Water regularly during the growing season and apply a balanced liquid feed every couple of weeks once the buds appear. Remove spent flowers to channel energy into new growth and lift the tubers for winter storage in colder regions.

A brilliant choice for pastel-themed gardens, ‘Rainbow Silence’ provides a soft, glowing presence in the border and makes a wonderful cut flower that bridges the gap between pink and yellow arrangements.

Dahlia ‘Playa Blanca’ is a striking white cactus variety that brings texture and brightness to the summer garden. Its name, meaning "White Beach," perfectly describes the clean, fresh look of its spiky, incurved petals that radiate from a tight centre.

The plant is a vigorous grower, producing straight stems that are ideal for cutting. The unique cactus form, with its rolled, quill-like petals, adds a modern, architectural element to floral arrangements and garden beds alike.

Plant in full sun to maintain the snowy whiteness of the blooms, in soil that is rich in organic matter. Good drainage is vital, as dahlia tubers can rot in cold, wet ground.

Support the plant with stakes or netting to keep the stems upright during heavy rains. Deadhead frequently to promote a long flowering window, and lift the tubers in autumn to store them safely away from frost.

A brilliant choice for contemporary garden designs, ‘Playa Blanca’ offers a crisp, sculptural look that contrasts beautifully with soft grasses and broad-leaved foliage plants.

Dahlia ‘Platinum’ is an elegant decorative variety that graces the garden with pristine white blooms, often touched with a whisper of lilac or cream at the heart. Its sophisticated form and clean colour make it a versatile addition to any planting scheme, acting as a palate cleanser amongst brighter colours.

This variety grows into a sturdy bush with broad, lush leaves that provide a dark green backdrop for the luminous flowers. The blooms are waterlily-esque in shape, with broad, slightly cupped petals that create a serene and structured appearance.

Plant in a sunny, open spot in fertile, well-drained soil. It appreciates a position with good air circulation to keep the foliage healthy and free from mildew later in the season.

Water consistently, directing moisture to the base of the plant rather than the foliage. Lift the tubers after the first frost blackens the leaves, clean them off, and store them in a frost-free environment for replanting next spring.

A brilliant choice for sophisticated, neutral borders, ‘Platinum’ brings a sense of calm and purity to the garden, glowing softly in the twilight and mixing effortlessly with all other colours in the vase.

Dahlia ‘Park Princess’ is a charming semi-cactus bedding variety that packs a punch of bright pink colour into a compact, manageable size. Unlike its taller cousins, this variety is perfectly scaled for pots, window boxes, and the front of garden borders.

Forming a neat, low-growing mound of healthy green foliage, it produces a profusion of spiky, vibrant pink flowers that cover the plant throughout the summer. Its shorter stems mean it rarely requires staking, making it a low-maintenance option for busy gardeners.

Plant in full sun for the best flowering density, in high-quality potting compost if growing in containers. Ensure container-grown plants have excellent drainage to prevent the tubers from becoming waterlogged.

Water daily during hot spells if planted in pots, as containers dry out quickly. Deadhead faded blooms regularly to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage new buds to form continuously until autumn.

A brilliant choice for patio gardening and small spaces, ‘Park Princess’ delivers the exotic look of a cactus dahlia without the need for large beds, pairing well with low-growing annuals like lobelia or alyssum.

Dahlia ‘My Love’ is a classic semi-cactus variety that produces elegant, pure white blooms with a hint of lime green at the centre. Known for its vigour and reliability, it is one of the most popular white dahlias for both garden display and cut flower use.

Reaching a tall stature, this variety sends up long, strong stems topped with spiky, needle-like petals that give the flower a starburst effect. Its height makes it an excellent candidate for the back of the border, where it can rise above lower-growing perennials.

Plant in full sun to keep the white petals bright and crisp, in well-drained, fertile soil. Due to its height, it is essential to stake this variety early in the season to prevent wind damage.

Water deeply once a week during dry periods and feed with a liquid tomato fertiliser from July onwards. When the season ends, lift the tubers and store them in dry compost or sand to overwinter safely.

A brilliant choice for "Moon Gardens" or all-white schemes, ‘My Love’ reflects evening light beautifully and serves as a versatile, long-lasting cut flower that complements any arrangement.

Dahlia ‘Lake Michigan’ is a mesmerizing decorative variety that captures the imagination with its ombre violet-purple and white blooms. The flowers feature a stunning gradient effect, with darker purple centres fading to crisp white tips, resembling a watercolour painting.

The plant has a vigorous growth habit, producing plenty of foliage and strong stems that hold the flowers upright. The blooms are perfectly formed and symmetrical, making them highly photogenic and excellent for adding a touch of artistry to the garden.

Plant in a sunny location with protection from strong winds, in soil that has been enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. This variety loves heat and will reward you with more intense colouration in a warm, sheltered spot.

Provide support with canes or netting as the plant reaches its full height. Regular deadheading is essential to prevent the plant from setting seed and to ensure a succession of blooms right up until the first frost.

A brilliant choice for gardeners who love unique colour patterns, ‘Lake Michigan’ stands out in white gardens or cool-toned borders, pairing elegantly with silver foliage and purple salvias.

Dahlia ‘Just Married’ is a romantic decorative variety renowned for its soft, dreamy blend of bright pink and creamy white. It is a favourite for wedding floristry and elegant garden designs, offering a delicate and sophisticated look that blends seamlessly with other pastel shades.

This variety produces an abundance of medium-sized flowers on long, straight stems, making it exceptional for cutting. The petals are slightly fimbriated (fringed) at the tips, adding a unique, ruffled texture to the blooms that softens their overall appearance.

Plant in full sun to partial shade, ensuring the soil is fertile and well-worked before planting. It thrives in a dedicated cutting garden or mixed border where it can be easily accessed for harvesting stems.

Keep the soil consistently moist during summer, as water stress can reduce flower quality. In late autumn, cut back the stems and lift the tubers to store in a cool, dry place until spring, ensuring they are kept frost-free.

A brilliant choice for bridal bouquets and romantic garden themes, ‘Just Married’ bridges the gap between white and pink planting schemes, providing reliable structure and charm from mid-summer to autumn.

Dahlia ‘Fire and Ice’ is a show-stopping decorative variety featuring striking bi-colour blooms of bright red with clean white edges. Its crisp, defined markings make it an eye-catching addition to cottage gardens and cheerful summer displays where bold colour is required.

The plant grows into a neat, bushy mound with fresh green foliage that contrasts thoroughly with the vivid flowers. The blooms are medium-sized and fully double, with broad, flat petals that display the consistent red-and-white pattern perfectly on every flower.

Plant in a sunny, open position where it can receive plenty of light, in soil that remains moist but drains well. This variety is relatively robust but performs best when sheltered from heavy rains that might damage the pristine white tips of the petals.

Water regularly, especially during the bud-formation stage, and feed every two weeks during the flowering season. Deadhead spent flowers by cutting the stem back to a leaf node to promote fresh buds throughout the season.

A brilliant choice for cutting patches and front-of-border impact, ‘Fire and Ice’ attracts attention from a distance and pairs wonderfully with solid white or red companions to echo its dynamic colour scheme.

Dahlia ‘Black Jack’ is a dramatic cactus variety that commands attention with its spiky, dark maroon petals that appear almost black in certain lights. It adds instant depth and mystery to the garden, serving as a perfect counterpoint to brighter, lighter blooms in a mixed herbaceous border.

This variety forms a bushy, upright plant with dark, lush foliage that enhances the moody intensity of the flowers. The pointed, tubular petals radiate outward, giving the blooms a star-like quality that adds texture and architectural interest to planting schemes.

Plant in full sun to help the dark pigments develop fully, ensuring the soil is rich in organic matter and well-drained. Like all dahlias, it appreciates a feeding of high-potash fertiliser once blooming begins to sustain its performance.

Support with stakes as the plant grows, as the stems can become top-heavy with flowers. Remove spent blooms to keep the plant tidy and productive, and lift tubers in autumn to protect them from freezing temperatures.

A brilliant choice for contemporary and gothic-inspired gardens, ‘Black Jack’ looks stunning when planted alongside lime-green foliage or bright orange flowers, creating a bold, high-contrast display.

Dahlia ‘Café au Lait Rose’ is a breathtaking dinnerplate variety that offers a vibrant twist on the classic favourite, featuring massive, ruffled blooms in luscious shades of deep pink and magenta. A sport of the world-famous original, it retains the same impressive size and form but brings a richer, more intense colour palette to summer borders and bouquets.

Growing to a substantial height, this variety produces strong, sturdy stems capable of holding its heavy, multi-layered flowers. The petals curl and twist in a relaxed, informal habit, creating a sense of movement and luxury that makes it a standout feature in any garden scheme.

Plant in full sun to ensure the most vibrant colour saturation, in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. As a dinnerplate variety, it requires a sheltered spot away from strong winds to protect its large, heavy heads.

Water generously during dry spells to support the massive blooms, and deadhead regularly to encourage a continuous display until the first frosts. In colder climates, lift the tubers after the foliage blackens and store them frost-free over winter.

A brilliant choice for exhibition growing and luxury floristry, ‘Café au Lait Rose’ pairs beautifully with lighter pinks and creams, offering a romantic and opulent focal point at the back of the border.

Zantedeschia 'Red Symphony' brings true ruby‑red blooms that look incredible in bouquets on tall stems above neat, arrow‑shaped leaves. The flowers are actually a smooth ‘spathe’ wrapped around a central spadix, giving that iconic trumpet shape that suits both classic and contemporary gardens.

These summer-flowering rhizomes are outstanding in patio pots, where you can keep the compost evenly moist and enjoy the flowers up close. They also work in sheltered borders, especially in richer soils, and the clean, architectural blooms pair beautifully with grasses and airy annuals.

Plant in spring once the ground has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. Set rhizomes 5–10 cm deep, with the growing points facing up, and space them so the clumps can expand. You’ll usually see shoots appear within a few weeks, followed by flower stems through mid to late summer.

Calla lilies love moisture while they’re growing, so water regularly and feed in containers for the best display. Mulching the soil surface helps reduce drying out in warm weather. If you’re cutting stems, pick as the spathe unfurls and place straight into fresh water for long-lasting arrangements.

These are tender plants in the UK, so protect them from frost. After flowering, let the foliage die back naturally so the rhizome can recharge. In autumn, lift and store the rhizomes somewhere cool, dry and frost‑free, or move pots under cover, ready for replanting next spring.

Zantedeschia 'Purple Dance' brings deep purple blooms with a sleek, elegant silhouette on tall stems above neat, arrow‑shaped leaves. The flowers are actually a smooth ‘spathe’ wrapped around a central spadix, giving that iconic trumpet shape that suits both classic and contemporary gardens.

These summer-flowering rhizomes are outstanding in patio pots, where you can keep the compost evenly moist and enjoy the flowers up close. They also work in sheltered borders, especially in richer soils, and the clean, architectural blooms pair beautifully with grasses and airy annuals.

Plant in spring once the ground has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. Set rhizomes 5–10 cm deep, with the growing points facing up, and space them so the clumps can expand. You’ll usually see shoots appear within a few weeks, followed by flower stems through mid to late summer.

Calla lilies love moisture while they’re growing, so water regularly and feed in containers for the best display. Mulching the soil surface helps reduce drying out in warm weather. If you’re cutting stems, pick as the spathe unfurls and place straight into fresh water for long-lasting arrangements.

These are tender plants in the UK, so protect them from frost. After flowering, let the foliage die back naturally so the rhizome can recharge. In autumn, lift and store the rhizomes somewhere cool, dry and frost‑free, or move pots under cover, ready for replanting next spring.

Zantedeschia 'Orange Blend' brings fiery orange blooms that glow in summer sun on tall stems above neat, arrow‑shaped leaves. The flowers are actually a smooth ‘spathe’ wrapped around a central spadix, giving that iconic trumpet shape that suits both classic and contemporary gardens.

These summer-flowering rhizomes are outstanding in patio pots, where you can keep the compost evenly moist and enjoy the flowers up close. They also work in sheltered borders, especially in richer soils, and the clean, architectural blooms pair beautifully with grasses and airy annuals.

Plant in spring once the ground has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. Set rhizomes 5–10 cm deep, with the growing points facing up, and space them so the clumps can expand. You’ll usually see shoots appear within a few weeks, followed by flower stems through mid to late summer.

Calla lilies love moisture while they’re growing, so water regularly and feed in containers for the best display. Mulching the soil surface helps reduce drying out in warm weather. If you’re cutting stems, pick as the spathe unfurls and place straight into fresh water for long-lasting arrangements.

These are tender plants in the UK, so protect them from frost. After flowering, let the foliage die back naturally so the rhizome can recharge. In autumn, lift and store the rhizomes somewhere cool, dry and frost‑free, or move pots under cover, ready for replanting next spring.

Zantedeschia Mixed brings a lively mix of calla lilies in bright, contrasting colours on tall stems above neat, arrow‑shaped leaves. Expect a varied palette, so every planting feels a little different. The flowers are actually a smooth ‘spathe’ wrapped around a central spadix, giving that iconic trumpet shape that suits both classic and contemporary gardens.

These summer-flowering rhizomes are outstanding in patio pots, where you can keep the compost evenly moist and enjoy the flowers up close. They also work in sheltered borders, especially in richer soils, and the clean, architectural blooms pair beautifully with grasses and airy annuals.

Plant in spring once the ground has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. Set rhizomes 5–10 cm deep, with the growing points facing up, and space them so the clumps can expand. You’ll usually see shoots appear within a few weeks, followed by flower stems through mid to late summer.

Calla lilies love moisture while they’re growing, so water regularly and feed in containers for the best display. Mulching the soil surface helps reduce drying out in warm weather. If you’re cutting stems, pick as the spathe unfurls and place straight into fresh water for long-lasting arrangements.

These are tender plants in the UK, so protect them from frost. After flowering, let the foliage die back naturally so the rhizome can recharge. In autumn, lift and store the rhizomes somewhere cool, dry and frost‑free, or move pots under cover, ready for replanting next spring.

Zantedeschia 'Strawberry Blush' delivers elegant, trumpet-shaped calla blooms in soft strawberry-pink tones above glossy green foliage. Perfect for patio pots, borders and as a long-lasting cut flower... Plant the bulb-like rhizomes in pots indoors from early spring, then move outside after the last frost into moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Flowering through summer into early autumn. In colder areas, lift and store the rhizomes frost‑free once the foliage dies back, or move containers under cover for winter.

Zantedeschia 'Crystal Blush' brings creamy white blooms that slowly pick up a rosy blush on tall stems above neat, arrow‑shaped leaves. The flowers are actually a smooth ‘spathe’ wrapped around a central spadix, giving that iconic trumpet shape that suits both classic and contemporary gardens.

These summer-flowering rhizomes are outstanding in patio pots, where you can keep the compost evenly moist and enjoy the flowers up close. They also work in sheltered borders, especially in richer soils, and the clean, architectural blooms pair beautifully with grasses and airy annuals.

Plant in spring once the ground has warmed and the risk of frost has passed. Set rhizomes 5–10 cm deep, with the growing points facing up, and space them so the clumps can expand. You’ll usually see shoots appear within a few weeks, followed by flower stems through mid to late summer.

Calla lilies love moisture while they’re growing, so water regularly and feed in containers for the best display. Mulching the soil surface helps reduce drying out in warm weather. If you’re cutting stems, pick as the spathe unfurls and place straight into fresh water for long-lasting arrangements.

These are tender plants in the UK, so protect them from frost. After flowering, let the foliage die back naturally so the rhizome can recharge. In autumn, lift and store the rhizomes somewhere cool, dry and frost‑free, or move pots under cover, ready for replanting next spring.

Gladiolus 'Atom' produces bright orange-red flowers edged in silvery white on elegant flower spikes that add height and movement to summer borders. The blooms open gradually from the base upwards, giving a long display and plenty of stems for cutting.

Growing to around 60–90 cm, this gladiolus forms upright, sword-like foliage and neat clumps that suit mixed planting schemes. It’s ideal for weaving through perennials or planting in small groups for a natural, airy look.

Plant corms in spring once the soil has warmed, choosing a sunny, sheltered position in well-drained soil. Work in compost and avoid waterlogged ground, which can rot corms before they establish.

Water during dry spells and keep the area weed-free while shoots emerge. In exposed sites, a simple support helps keep flower spikes upright. Deadhead spent blooms, but leave the foliage to feed the corm for next year.

Excellent as cut flowers and perfect for summer colour, gladioli also attract pollinators when grown in mixed borders. Lift and store corms after foliage dies back in colder areas, or mulch well where varieties are hardy.