Top 5... compact forms of large shrubs

Ideal for smaller gardens, these plants offer maximum impact in pots and tiny spaces

1 Hydrangea paniculata ‘Pinky-Winky’

Half the size of the original species shrub with tapering cones of flushed pink flowers. Like other hydrangeas, this form needs soil that doesn’t dry out and a sheltered position to prevent the early leaf buds being damaged by cold winds. H/S: 1½m (5ft).

Tip The flowers are easy to pick and dry for long-lasting dried arrangements.

From www.thompson-morgan.com; tel: 0844 573 1818.

2 Philadelphus ‘Manteau d’Hermine’

Wonderfully fragrant, creamy white, double flowers smother this small mock orange bush in summer. Needs well-drained soil and benefits from an annual mulch of compost. It can tolerate road pollution and salty sea air. H: 75cm (30in), S: 1½m (5ft). Tip Prune one in five of the arching stems down to the ground after flowering, to maintain a supply of attractive young stems. From www.burncoose.co.uk; tel: 01209 860316.

3 Forsythia ‘Minigold’

A unique dwarf variety of this vibrant, spring-flowering shrub. Heavy flowering, with stems covered in canary-yellow flowers that are useful to early bees. Plant in full sun in a moist but well-drained soil. H/S: 1.2m (4ft). Tip This is the perfect forsythia to use in container displays, teamed with spring bulbs or Lenten roses. From www.jparkers.co.uk; tel: 0161 848 1100.

4 Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’

Makes a dense, low framework of short, silver-blue evergreen needles, which release an aromatic fragrance when brushed against. Happy in all soils apart from waterlogged, and grows well in full sun or partial shade. H: 40cm (16in), S: 1m (3ft 3in).

Tip The low, spreading habit makes this a useful shrub for evergreen ground cover.

From www.crocus.co.uk; tel: 01344 578111.

5 Nandina domestica ‘Fire Power’

Particularly compact and rounded, this heavenly bamboo variety has small, starshaped, white flowers in summer and rich pinkish-red autumn colour. Thrives in moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. H: 45cm (18in), S: 60cm (2ft).

Tip This variety is the one most suitable for growing in containers.

From www.crocus.co.uk; tel: 01344 578111.