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There are a number of Australian native orchids which flower in the later months of winter and early spring. In the bushland surrounding his home Don came across a Greenhood orchid (Pterostylis concinna) growing amongst some weeds. He successfully replanted it in a...
Fourteen months ago Don created a grevillea garden using crushed sandstone rubble in raised mounds 1.5-2m (5-6′) high. All the plants have grown at such an incredible rate that you’d think the garden was at least ten years old. In this same area late last...
Don looks at one of his all time favourite camellias, ‘Yuletide’. In Australia this plant produces stunning red flowers from March to July, but in the northern hemisphere its flower display coincides with the Christmas season. Plant details Common name:...
Abutilons or Chinese lanterns are closely related to hibiscus, and most of the hundred or so species have pendulous, hibiscus-like flowers. Cultivars produced by hybridising some of the South American abutilons have all been placed in one group known as Abutilon x...
Mother’s Day is when traditionally Australians present their mums with a bunch of chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemums are naturally in season in Australia in autumn, so are cheap and plentiful in time for Mother’s Day. Plant details Common name: Chrysanthemum...
The latest trend when it comes to roses is a move away from the cottage garden towards free flowering, fragrant roses which can be used for privacy and screening. These types of roses often have climbing or semi-climbing growth habits, and they add a wonderful,...
Cosmos ‘Bright Eyes’ Cosmos ‘Bright Eyes’ is a beautiful summer annual in the Yates packet seed range. The semi-double flowers are all in warm colours, from scarlet through to orange and yellow. The seeds can be started in trays of seed raising...
Cuphea Cupheas are native to Mexico and Brazil. There are around two hundred and sixty species and they are mostly low growing annuals, perennials or shrubs with tubular flowers and small leaves. Don looked at two new varieties, ‘Starfire’ and ‘Tiny...
Daphne This large genus of evergreen and deciduous shrubs was named after a nymph in Greek mythology called Daphne. After being chased by the sun god Apollo, Daphne prayed to her father, who was a river god, to save her. The river god changed her into a bay tree!...
This curious Mexican succulent makes an ideal hanging basket specimen for a hot, sunny balcony. It will thrive on neglect, even if you go on holidays or forget to water it for weeks at a time. Hanging baskets of Donkey’s Tails, each with a cover like a Chinese...