Flowers - Beautiful Flowers, Roses and Bouquets

The sweet pea was introduced to the UK in 1699 when a Sicilian monk, Francis Cupani, sent seeds of this fragrant annual to Dr Robert Uvedale, a teacher from Enfield, Middlesex. Thanks to its gorgeous scent the sweet pea gained popularity throughout the centuries. Over four hundred years later the range of colours has increased enormously, but many of the modern varieties lack the scent of their older uncles and aunts.This collection of rare, old fashioned sweet peas contains tenplants in individual, 8cm pots from a selection of the following varieties:America - bred in 1896 has flowers white striped with redAnnie B Gilroy - cerise blooms and was bred in 1909Apricot Sprite - attractive shades of glowing apricotCountess Cadogan - bred in 1899 is violet and blue bicolour flowersCream Southbourne - luscious cream flowersCupanis Original - the original plant from 1699, has purple and blue bicolour flowersHenry Eckford - bred in 1906 has bright orange bloomsJanet Scott - bright pink flowers and was bred in 1903Lord Nelson - bred in 1907 has flowers of navy blueMrs Collier - bred in 1907 has cream bloomsMatucana - maroon and purple flowers introduced into the UK in 1699Painted Lady - lovely pink and white bicoloured flowers and was bred in 1737Prima Dona - pink self-hooded flowers and was bred in 1896Violet Queen - bred in 1877 has violet self-hooded flowersWinston Churchill - rich crimson red bloomsPrincess Elizabeth - salmon pink with creamy buff bloomsMrs R. Bolton - light pink bloomsAir Warden - scarlet cerise bloomsGeranium Pink - cerise pink , scuffed with orange bloomsLeamington - pale sky blue bloomsRed Ensign - scarlet red bloomsWhite Ensign - pure white bloomsBlue Velvet - deep sea blue flowersThis mixed collection has been put together specifically for Crocus by our favourite sweet pea specialist. Each plant will have been cut back once so that you get a nice, bushy plant that should be at least 15cm (6in) tall.Plant Care: To make sure you keep the plants in top condition spray regularly with a fungicide as all sweet peas are prone to mildew and feed with a high potash, such as Tomorite for plenty of flowers. Don't forget to keep cutting the flowers so that you get plenty more! Please note that the individual plants are not labelled, and as Sweet Pea the annuals, they will only last for one summer

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: June to OctoberHardiness: frost hardy (needs winter protection)A useful, long-flowering, semi-evergreen shrub for a mixed border. This abelia has yellow and green variegated leaves which it hangs on to for most of the year. In June, it produces masses of small, pink-flushed, fragrant, trumpet-like flowers on arching branches that go on all summer. As it's slightly tender, it's best grown in the shelter of a wall, towards the back of a border. Ideal for a small, or cottage-style garden.Garden care: Deadhead regularly toprolong flowering. In autumn after flowering, trim back the flowered shoots to retain a neat and tidy shape. Remove any dead or damaged wood in April.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: June to OctoberHardiness: borderline hardinessA useful, long-flowering, semi-evergreen shrub for a mixed border. This abelia has attractive, glossy, deep green leaves which it hangs on to for most of the year. From June, it produces masses of small, fragrant, pink-flushed, trumpet-like flowers on arching branches that go on all summer. As it's slightly tender, it's best grown in the shelter of a wall, towards the back of a border. Ideal for a cottage-style garden.Garden care: Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. In autumn after flowering lightly trim back the flowered shoots to retain a neat and tidy shape. Remove any dead or damaged wood in April.

Position: full sunSoil: moderately fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: June to SeptemberHardiness: Frost hardy (needs winter protection in cold areas)A popular, spreading perennial, with cheerful, open daisies of palest lilac or white with purple centres. The back of each petal are a darker smoky lilac, and as the flower opens and closes with the sun, this contrast adds to the plant's charm. This is one of the hardiest osteospermums, and it keeps on producing an uplifting display of flowers from early summer through to autumn. It looks lovely planted en masse in containers on a sunny terrace, or in a wide, herbaceous border. Garden care: Protect plants in frost-prone areas and lift and divide congested clumps in autumn or spring.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no. 3 compost for containers)Rate of growth: averageFlowering period: July to SeptemberHardiness: half hardyGlobes of of trumpet-shaped, deep blue flowers appear from July to September on straight stems above bold clumps of strap-like, mid-green leaves. These beautiful African lilies provide valuable late summer interest in a sunny, well-drained border, or large patio pot. Where temperatures fall below zero, container-grown specimens should be overwintered in a frost free place.Garden care: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from spring until flowering. Divide congested plants in spring, but be aware that they may not flower again the next summer.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no. 3 compost for containers) Rate of growth: average Flowering period: July to SeptemberHardiness: half hardyA wonderful white form of African lily, with globes of trumpet-shaped flowers from July to September. This bold perennial provides a perfect focal point for a sunny,  well-drained border or in a patio container. Where temperatures fall below zero, container-grown specimens should be overwintered in a frost-free place.Garden care: Keep well-watered during the growing season, applying a balanced liquid fertiliser each month from spring until the plant flowers. Overwinter container-grown specimens in a cool greenhouse or conservatory, watering sparingly.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no. 3 compost for containers) Rate of growth: average Flowering period: July to SeptemberHardiness: hardy (borderline)Showy globes of trumpet-shaped flowers ranging in colour from deep blue, pale blue to white appear from July to September on straight stems above clumps of strap-shaped, mid-green leaves. Headbourne Hybrids are a particularly fine variety of African lilies, ideal for a sunny well-drained border or a large patio pot.Garden care: Keep well-watered during the growing season, applying a balanced liquid fertiliser each month from spring until the plant flowers. In cold, exposed areas protect the crown of the plant with a deep, dry winter mulch.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no. 3 compost for containers)Rate of growth: averageFlowering period: July to SeptemberHardiness: half hardyGlobes of of trumpet-shaped, deep blue flowers appear from July to September on straight stems above bold clumps of strap-like, mid-green leaves. These beautiful African lilies provide valuable late summer interest in a sunny, well-drained border, or large patio pot. Where temperatures fall below zero, container-grown specimens should be overwintered in a frost free place.Garden care: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from spring until flowering. Divide congested plants in spring, but be aware that they may not flower again the next summer.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no. 3 compost for containers)Rate of growth: averageFlowering period: July to SeptemberHardiness: half hardyThis is a new variety, with huge globes of trumpet-shaped, bright blue flowers with dark stripes on each petal that appear from July to September. The flowers are held on straight stems above bold clumps of evergreen, strap-like, mid-green leaves. These beautiful African lilies provide valuable late summer interest in a sunny, well-drained border or large patio pot.Garden care: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from spring until flowering. In cold areas, protect the crown of the plant with a deep, dry mulch. Divide plants in spring.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no. 3 compost for containers) Rate of growth: average Flowering period: July to SeptemberHardiness: fully hardy (borderline)A short variety that originates from New Zealand. It produces loose clusters of light blue, trumpet-shaped flowers that gently flare towards the ends. These appear above the glossy, strap-shaped foliage in July and August.Garden care: Keep well-watered during the growing season, applying a balanced liquid fertiliser each month from spring until the plant flowers. In cold, exposed areas protect the crown of the plant with a deep, dry winter mulch, and avoid too much winter wet.

Position: full sun or dappled shadeSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: July and AugustFlower colour: blueHardiness: half hardy, will need winter protectionOpen clusters of pale blue bells with paler centres top upright stems from mid to late summer - and may even last into autum. This is a compact form, which is ideal for pots and containers. The glossy, strap shaped leaves will die back in the winter, but look interesting throughout the summer.Garden care: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly throughout the growing season. Keep reasonably dry during the winter and protect the crowns with a dry mulch in the autumn. Divide plants that have become too big in spring, but remember you will often get more flowers when the roots are constricted.

Position: full sun or light dappled shadeSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: August and SeptemberFlower colour: blueOther features: excellent cut flowersHardiness: half hardy, will need winter protectionClumps of narrow, strap shaped leaves form a rosette at the base of the plant from which tall flower spikes emerge. The flowers form large, pendulous clusters on top of these stems, consisting of mid blue bells that are slightly paler on the inside.Garden care: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser throughout the growing season. Keep reasonably dry during the winter and protect the crowns with a dry mulch in the autumn. Divide plants that have become too big in spring, but remember you will often get more flowers when the roots are constricted.

The stiff flower stems are held above dark green, strap-like leaves that form attractive clumps. This African lily is invaluable for providing late summer interest in a sunny, well-drained border or large patio pot. Where temperatures fall below zero, container grown specimens should be overwintered in a frost free place.Position: full sunSoil: fertile, moist, well-drained soil (or John Innes no. 3 compost for containers)Rate of growth: averageFlowering period: AugustFlower colour: lavenderOther features: excellent as cut flowersHardiness: half hardyGarden care: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from spring until flowering. Divide plants in spring

Position: full sunSoil: moist, fertile, well-drainedRate of growth: vigourousFlowering period: JuneHardiness: fully hardySturdy stems of deep blue summer flowers, turning blue-purple with age, appear in early summer above rosettes of mid-green leaves. This large blue alkanet makes a striking and long-lasting statement in a sunny border and does not need staking. The flowers are attractive to bees, too.Garden care: Anchusas dont like wet soil. Deadhead after flowering to encourage a second flush of flowers. In early autumn cut the stems back down to the ground. 

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: June Hardiness: fully hardyDense, rich-purple globes held high on erect stems above strap-like, pale green leaves appear in early summer. They look spectacular grouped in a pot, or in a sunny border, dotted in groups among ornamental grasses, or as part of a Mediterranean scheme. Alliums look best planted between medium-sized herbaceous plants, which help to mask the strap-like leaves, which fade by the time the flowers appear.Garden care: Split and divide large clumps in autumn or spring.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: June to JulyHardiness: fully hardyHuge globes ofsmall, star-shaped, pinkish-purple flowers appear in summer above narrow, grey-green leaves. In bloom these fabulous globes - up to 20cm (8in) in diameter - have a metallic sheen. The faded flowerheads hold up well in the border and are useful for dried flower arrangements. Perfect for a sunny site, dotted in small groups among ornamental grasses, or as part of a Mediterranean scheme. Alliums look best planted between medium-sized herbaceous plants, which help to mask the strap-like leaves, which fade by the time the flowers appear.Garden care: Split and divide large clumps in autumn or spring.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: June to JulyHardiness: fully hardyDense globes of small, star-shaped, lilac-pink summer flowers on towering stems appear in summer above , pale green leaves. This gorgeous ornamental onion - the tallest currently available - is perfect for providing vertical interest in a sunny border. Try it dotted in small groups among ornamental grasses, or as part of a Mediterranean schemeGarden care: Split and divide large clumps in autumn or spring.

Position: full sunSoil: well drainedRate of growth: averageFlowering period: May - JuneHardiness: frost hardy (may need protection in cold areas)A really gorgeous, unusual allium, with huge, pinky-purple, umbrella shaped blooms up to 30cm (5") across, made up of tiny, star-shaped flowers that look like exploded fireworks. This bulbous perennial looks fantastic dotted in small groups among grasses. Or, try it between medium-sized herbaceous plants, which help to mask the strap-like leaves, which fade by the time the flowers appear.Garden care: lift and divide large clumps in autumn or spring.

Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soil, neutral soilRate of growth: average to fastFlowering period: April to MayFlower colour: blueOther features: fluffy seed-headsHardiness: fully hardySmall, bell-shaped, mid-blue spring flowers with creamy-white centres, followed by fluffy seed-heads, and mid-green leaves. This early spring flowering clematis is ideal for a north- or east-facing site. Given suitable support it may be grown on its own or allowed to scramble through a strong shrub or tree.Garden care: No routine pruning is necessary. If the spread of the plant needs to be restricted prune immediately after flowering, cutting back overlong shoots to healthy buds. Apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the base of the plant in early spring.

Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained, neutral soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: April to May Flower colour: deep purplish-redHardiness: fully hardySemi-double, deep purplish-red, bell-shaped flowers, followed by fluffy seedheads in summer and mid-green leaves. This alpine clematis is a particularly free-flowering variety. An attractive choice for covering a north- or east-facing wall, it occasionally produces a second, smaller flush of flowers in summer.Garden care: No routine pruning is necessary. If the spread of the plant needs to be restricted prune immediately after flowering, cutting back overlong shoots to healthy buds. Apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the base of the plant in early spring.

Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soil, neutral soilRate of growth: average to fastFlowering period: April to MayFlower colour: pale pinkOther features: fluffy seed-headsHardiness: fully hardySmall, delicate, bell-shaped flowers that are pale pink darkening to towards the base, with deeper pink undersides and cream anthers. This is early-flowering clematis with flowers appearing from April to May followed by fluffy seed-heads. A great clematis for a north- or east-facing wall or trellis. Given suitable support it may be grown on its own or allowed to scramble through a strong shrub or tree.Garden care: No routine pruning is necessary. If the spread of the plant needs to be restricted prune immediately after flowering, cutting back overlong shoots to healthy buds. Apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the base of the plant in early spring.

Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: fast-growingFlowering period: April to MayFlower colour: sky blueOther features: very tough clematis that is ideal for cold, exposed sitesHardiness: fully hardySlightly twisted, sky blue bells in mid- to late spring. These are followed by whiskery seedheads which cover the plant later in the year. This clematis reliably blooms each spring, no matter what the weather is and is perfect for a sunny trellis. It is one of the easiest clematis to look after as it needs little or no pruning.Garden care: Pruning is not essential but you can remove any dead or weak growth in early summer to encourage strong new growth. Mulch in late winter with garden compost or well-rotted manure but avoid the immediate crown.

Position: full sun or partial shadeSoil: fertile, well-drained, neutral soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: April to May Flower colour: whiteHardiness: fully hardySingle, white, bell-shaped flowers appear in mid-spring and are followed by fluffy seedheads in summer. The delicate flowers look particularly lovely when grown through another climber, such as a climbing rose. Ideal for covering a shady, north- or east-facing wall.Garden care: No routine pruning is necessary. If the spread of the plant needs to be restricted prune immediately after flowering, cutting back overlong shoots to healthy buds. Apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the base of the plant in early spring.

Position: full sunSoil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growing Flowering period: June to AugustHardiness: frost hardy (needs winter protection)An Australian native, this is a compact, aromatic, evergreen shrub with small, lustrous rounded leaves. From June to August, clusters of tubular, pure white flowers with distinctive purple and yellow markings appear. It is ideal for a sheltered, sunny, mixed or shrub border and looks particularly good among silver-leaved plants or strappy Phormiums.Garden care: After flowering lightly trim or prune any shoot that spoil the symmetry of the plant. After pruning apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3inch) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant.

Position: full sunSoil: moist. but well-drained soilRate of growth: averageFlowering period: May to JulyHardiness: fully hardyDense clusters of star-like, ice-blue flowers appear from late spring to midsummer on graceful, arching stems above long, dark green leaves. A lovely, clump-forming perennial that looks good in the middle of a sunny border.Garden care: Divide congested plants in spring.

Position: full or partial shadeSoil: deep, moist, fertile, loamy soilRate of growth: average Flowering period: August and SeptemberHardiness: fully hardyA stunning, architectural plant that adds height and drama to a border.  Dome-shaped heads of plum-purple flowers appear on red-tinted stems in August and September and it has pretty, deeply cut leaves. Try it at the back of a sunny, herbaceous or mixed border, where the flowerheads will attract bees. It performs best in moist, fertile soil. This plant is monocarpic, so dies back after setting seed.Garden care:  To preventthe plant from self-seeding, deadhead after flowering. Even if you leave the seedheads, it tends not to self seed as freely as other angelicas, so needs to be replaced regularly.

Position: full sunSoil: humus-rich, well-drained soilRate of growth: slow-growing Flowering period: June to AugustHardiness: frost hardy (needs winter protection)A distinctive-looking perennial with arching stems of bell-shaped, magenta flowers that hang above clumps of grass-like, mid to grey-green leaves, retained all year. The stems look delicate, but are actually very tough and appear to tremble in the breeze. Angel's fishing rod is perfect for introducing movement to a well-drained border in a sunny, sheltered site, or for overhanging water. Initially slow to establish, it looks particularly good with early autumn-flowering ornamental grasses.Garden care: Water freely during the growing season. Lift and divide congested colonies in spring.

A jasmine that deserves its evocative name, this lovely evergreen plant is trained on a 1.2m cane and comes in a 6 litre pot. The flower buds are white but tinged with purple and when open have a hypnotic scent. Originally from The Admiralty Islands in Papua New Guinea, Jasminum nitidum is rarely available in the UK, so would be ideal for someone who knows their plants.This plant is frost tender so best kept in a conservatory after flowering.

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: average to fast-growingUltimate size (M27): 1.8x1.8m (6x6ft)Ultimate size (MM106): 5.5x5.5m (18x18ft)Flowering period: April and MayHardiness: fully hardyThis upright, spreading tree is covered in pure white, cup-shaped flowers in mid and late spring, followed by first class, juicy dessert apples for harvesting in early to mid October. A moderately vigorous variety, which is also self-fertile and produces perhaps the best British eating apple. Garden care: Keep the base of the tree weed free, fertilise at the beginning of each year and water regularly during hot, dry spells. Remove damaged or crossing branches during the dormant season.Goes well with: Ficus carica, Myrtus communis, Clematis viticella 'Purpurea Plena Elegans', Foeniculum vulgare 'Purpureum', Aloysia triphylla

Position: full sunSoil: fertile, well-drained soilRate of growth: averageUltimate size (MM26): 4x4m (12x12ft)Ultimate size (MM106): 5.5x5.5m (18x18ft)Flowering period: April and MayHardiness: fully hardyMasses of pure white, cup-shaped flowers in mid and late spring, followed by juicy, soft, pale yellow dessert apples with a red flush. This upright, spreading apple tree yields a heavy crop of fruits with an excellent flavour in early September. To guarantee cross pollination plant with another variety from the same flowering group (e.g. 'Fiesta'). Suitable for colder areas. Garden care: Keep the base of the tree weed free, fertilise at the beginning of each year and water regularly during hot, dry spells. Remove damaged or crossing branches during the dormant season.