FLOWER POWER

It's November in the garden and the flowerbeds are looking bloomin' beaut

- Words by Adam Woodhams.

How does your garden grow? Chances are, there’s an abundance of flowers, perfume and new growth every way you look. Take the time to savour these quiet, seasonal moments. Summer is on the near horizon so it’s time to start prepping your yard for peak heat.

FLOWERING NOW

CHINESE LANTERN (Abutilon species and cultivars). These retro plants truly deserve to be rediscovered. Their delicate flowers look like tiny hanging paper lanterns, used by fairies to light their homes. Colours range from crisp whites to fun yellows, pinks and reds.

CAPE CHESTNUT (Calodendrum capense). If you've ever worked a day in a garden centre, you would have heard customers ask about this evergreen flowering tree. At this time of year, the entire canopy may be hidden by light pink spidery flowers.

HIPPEASTRUM (Hippeastrum species and varieties). Given a sunny spot with fantastic drainage, these stunning bulbs will naturalise in the garden and form a clump that slowly gets larger year after year.

DEUTZIA (Deutzia species and cultivars). These gorgeous deciduous shrubs makes sweet additions to cottage-style gardens. If in a warmer zone, pick a spot shaded from the afternoon sun.