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 Bog Arums
Humus-rich boggy conditions suit the very spectacular Lysichiton americanus well. In its native habitat in the eastern United States, Lysichiton or skunk cabbage as its commonly referred to, is found in peaty marshland growing over a wide area. Careful thought must be given to where this plant is located, early spring is when the large buttercup yellow arum-like flowers, or to be correct spathes, appear. At this stage no more than 30.5cm (12") in height and a splendid attraction at the edge of a stream or pond. In due course the foliage starts into growth, this is where problems can occur as the large paddle-shaped leaves, in ideal conditions, can easily grow to 1.2m (4') or more. The leaves are very attractive in their own right. In no way should this lysichiton be overlooked, it is however one for the larger garden where it can be left undisturbed in a position where it does not cause a problem.
There is also a pure white variety, Lysichiton camtschatcense, this also occurs in boggy places in many parts of Asia. While not growing quite as large as the former, it still requires careful positioning as the leaves reach 90cm (36") long.
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 Asiatic primulas
These are indispensable for the water gardener, most are not difficult to grow provided they have a plentiful supply of moisture at all times. There are a considerable number of species and varieties readily available. Primula x pulverulento is a member of the 'Candelabra' group, growing to 75cm (30") in height. The stout stems carry whorls of crimson flowers during June and July. It is best planted in groups. The other essential has to be the bright yellow Primula prolifera, another of the free-flowering candelabras. For many years this was listed as Primula helodoxa and surprisingly can still be found under this name in some plant catalogues. One has only to see a fine group of Primula prolifera in full bloom in early summer to appreciate how it received its common name of 'Glory of the Bog'. A native to western China where it can be found growing in wet meadows and alongside streams. Primula prolifera goes on flowering for some time, it produces up to six whorls of large flowers around a stout stem which reaches 90cm (36") in height, and is by far one of the easiest 'asiatic' to grow. |
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