2m tall . The colour palette is equally as impressive , from white and pink through to the darkest purple and even red . fading blooms of salvias , veronicas , roses , lavateras , shasta daisies , cosmos , red hot pokers and many more .
Some naturally save their burst of colour until late in the season and these include the diverse family of asters , also known as Michaelmas daisies but now classed as Symphyotrichum . They come in an astonishing range of sizes , from just 10cm through to
Another autumn-flowering perennial that has recently been awarded a new name is Hylotelephium , most commonly known as sedum . These drought-tolerant , fleshy-leafed , mounded plants save their star-shaped flowers until very late summer and into autumn , when they act as a magnet for butterflies seeking valuable nectar . They can be left in place all through the winter to provide clusters of interest .
Some of the best of the rest
• Despite their common name , Japanese anemones mainly originate from China ! They begin flowering right at the end of summer and continue until the first frosts . They love sunshine and part-shade , and send up white or pink flowers held on tall , wiry stems that rise high above the foliage . Perfect for the back of the border , they will reward you by gradually spreading outwards to form a magnificent clump ready to delight every autumn .
• Often known as Guernsey lilies , although not strictly a member of the lily family , nerines are hardy perennials originating from South Africa . They love the sunshine and need a south-facing position , where they will brighten up autumn days by sending up strong , pink , lily-like flowers in delightful clumps of joy .
• To bring the colour of sunshine into any planting scheme , never underestimate the delightful charms of rudbeckia , also known as black-eyed Susan . They produce bright yellow , dazzling flowers with a dark centre from July through to the first frosts , getting better and brighter as the autumn progresses . They look magnificent when planted through ornamental grasses , which are also looking stunning in October and beyond .
26 < Boxmoor Direct < October 2023 <