Top 5... early perennials
Try these colourful varieties to give your garden some super springtime zing
1 Hepatica nobilis
Slow-growing, small clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial. Blue anemone flowers on wiry stems. Moist, but not wet, woodland soil in semi-shade. H/S: 10cm (4in).
Tip Plant them in the shade of a tree or overhanging shrub.
From www.edrom-nurseries.co.uk; tel: 01890 771386.
2 Brunnera macrophylla ‘Alexanders Great’
Largest variety, making a mound of evergreen, silvery foliage. Sprays of small, blue flowers. Moist, but not wet soil in shade or semi-shade. H: 35cm (14in), S: 60cm (24in). Tip Ideal for pots in a shady spot. From www.paddockplants.co.uk; tel: 023 8073 9912.
3 Doronicum ‘Little Leo’
Heart-shaped leaves and long-lasting yellow daisies on a compact plant. Any moist, well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade. H/S: 30cm (12in). Tip Ideal for brightening a shady border. From www.thompsonmorgan.com; tel: 0844 573 1818.
4 Bergenia stracheyi
Diminutive and compact evergreen species. Clusters of pink or white flowers on short stems. Any moist, well-drained soil. H/S: 20cm (8in). Tip Ideal among low-growing bulbs. From www.bethchatto.co.uk; tel: 01206 822007.
5 Pulmonaria ‘Raspberry Splash’
Ground-covering perennial. Spotted leaves with raspberry-pink flowers in March. Any moist, well-drained soil in semi-shade. H: 30cm (12in), S: 45cm (18in).
Tip Cut back stems after flowering to stimulate fresh growth.
From www.crocus.co.uk; tel: 01344 578111.