Dryopteris fllix-mas, Polystichum setiferum and Asplenium scolopendrium for a mass of cooling greenery around a hidden seat in the height of summer.
A fresh start allows for greater freedom in terms of layout. Choose trees of manageable proportions, and plant informally. Don't be afraid of positioning two or three of the same variety close together, allowing maximum impact from beautiful bark and creating a sheltering criss cross of branches overhead. Research the sunniest spot before planting and reserve that for a woodland glade, where summer flowers will also flourish, and you'll extend your enjoyment of this part of the garden. This is the perfect spot for geraniums, digitalis, Lamium maculatum, Alchemilla mollis, Viola odorata, Meconopsis cambrica, Ranunculus ficaria, Euphorbia amygdaloides 'Purpurea', Helleborus orientalis and Silene dioica.
Trees which 'perform' for more than one season offer the best value. Acer pseudo-platanus 'Brilliantissimum', with its salmon pink young leaves, is lovely at this time of year, as well as offering autumn interest. Include at least one cherry; perhaps Prunus serrula for glorious mahogany bark as well as April flowers, or Prunus x subhirtella 'Autumnalis', for intermittent flowers throughout winter and spring, as well as good autumn colour.
Key to trees
| 1. |
Fagus sylvatica
'Dawyck Purple' |
|
5. |
Acer pseudoplatanus
'Brilliantissimum' |
| 2. |
Amelanchier lamarckii |
|
6. |
Betula utilis var. jacquemontii |
| 3. |
Catalpa bignonioides
'Aurea' |
|
7. |
Prunus serrula |
| 4. |
Malus x zumi
'Golden Hornet' |
|
8. |
Cercis canadensis
'Forest Pansy' |
|
|
|
9. |
Photinia x fraseri
'Red Robin' |
|
|
 |
