We love December

I have been trying to compose a hit Christmas single based loosely around gardens and gardening.

- WORDS JAMES ALEXANDER-SINCLAIR

If I succeed then I can possibly retire on the proceeds or, at the very least, treat you all to a mince pie. Every shop and radio station will be blasting it out from October until the New Year, so there will be lots of lovely royalties. It would also help spread the word that gardens are not just for summer and, if you are clever, there can be excitement right through the winter. So... where is my thesaurus? And what on earth rhymes with garden?

STAR OF THE MONTH

Mahonia x media 'Winter Sun'

Forgive me please because I have, in my youth, been a bit sneery about mahonias. I recognise that this was a mistake as they have an awful lot in their favour: colour at a time when we have little, evergreen leaves, heavenly scent and they can be pruned into really interesting architectural shapes. The knubbly-barked stems can be trained as tall umbrellas to frame views and gateways. On the downside (we are always balanced here at GW), it is extremely prickly. Fortunately, as it flowers in winter, you should all be wearing enough clothes to keep it at bay.

Good in sun or part-shade. Propagate from late-summer cuttings. Ideal for woodland edges.

Height x Spread 3m x 2m

TOP MARKS

Some of you will be scratching your heads at this one and wondering whether we have lost the plot. This is not a plant suitable for the December garden but, in our mission to bring the joy of plants into every aspect of your lives, this is a handsome house plant - grown mostly for its fine foliage. It will be all right in a greenhouse or, bring it in to share the Christmas celebrations.

Fittonia albivenis 'Mistral'

Excellent for terrariums as it likes high humidity. Keep away from radiators and very dry heat. H x S 15cm x 15cm