5shrubs for containers
1 Philadelphus
Most mock orange are happy in pots though it might be advisable to choose one of the smaller varieties that will need little or no pruning. P. ‘Manteau d’Hermine’, which has an AGM, is dainty (see size below) and covered in highly scented double flowers. P. ‘Belle Etoile’ is my favourite.
Height x Spread 75cm x 1.2m Flowering Jun-Jul
2 Rosmarinus officinalis Prostatus Group
This is the perfect plant for a pot or for the top of a wall where its stems thickly decorated with needle-like leaves and graced with pollinator-friendly blue flowers early in the year, will tumble over the edges. Because of its Mediterranean origins it thrives on neglect. Loam-based compost with extra grit will suit it perfectly. Trailing x S 80cm x 1.5m
F Apr-Jun
3 Rosa Roald Dahl
We are growing this outstanding rose in a pot, having planted it in a recent TV series. Big globose apricot flowers have true old-rose scent. A round pot accentuates the shape of the flowers.
HxS 90cm x 110cm F Jun-Sep
4 Myrtus communis subsp. tarentina
Traditionally, sweet myrtle would have been included in every bride’s bouquet and sprigs of it would have been struck as cuttings to commemorate the special day. The whole shrub is aromatic, with dense, shiny and rich green foliage.Powder puff flowers are produced if it is grown in a sheltered spot.
HxS 1.5m x 1.5m F Jul-Aug
5 Camellia x williamsii ‘Donation’
Camellias only thrive in acidic conditions, so people gardening on alkaline soil who cannot resist their charms, often choose to grow one in a pot in ericaceous peatfree compost. ‘Donation’ is long flowering.
HxS 3m x 3m
F Feb-May