2018 is turning out to be a great year for Tithonia rotundifolia Torch. From a sowing in mid April I now have around 20 growing away strongly. Their textural velvet- like stems and intense orange flower are beginning to show their true blast of summer colour. I can already imagine a stunning combination with Ammi majus – which likes to self-seed freely around my garden.
Perennials (and biennials) are filling gardens with their summer flowering joy. I thought I ought to share them.
Veronicastrum virginicum Fascination – I never grow tired of using this perennial – it has been a firm favourite for years. The flowers last for several months and the stem is definitely not one that slumps and falls by the wayside in autumn. And…. the birds love the seed heads. I love how the teasel flower head was strikingly similar in colour.
Leucanthemum Phyllis Smith is undeniably gorgeous and we really should all make space for her in our gardens. I can often be found saying ” hi Phyllis looking great ! ” as I head out to work in the morning.
Anemanthele lessoniana – no need to propagate this grass, it is highly skilled at self seeding. I let mine run through the garden, and love popping Dahlias in between.
Acanthus and Phlox are looking great, along with Daylilies, Gunnera manicata, Ladies mantle and Knautia macedonica.
I continue to find great joy in being a gardener throughout my working week, and I hope you all enjoy spending a few hours in yours. Even though it is all proving a little testing at times (heat wise) both for myself and the plants.
Sally Wicks 