Astrantias

It's difficult to choose just one Astrantia to feature here as they are all very lovely. In the end though, 'Ruby Wedding won just for its superb, deep ruby-red flowers.

Astrantia's have been in cultivation since the 16th century and have gathered many common names through the years including Masterwort, Melncholy Gentleman & Hatties Pincushion. It was recommended by Nicholas Culpepper as remedy for 'cold griefs and diseases of both the stomach and body' though we don't recommend its use.

Saponaria officinalis Rosea plena

Sometimes called 'Bouncing Bet' but more commonly known as 'Soapwort', this lovely little flower has the sweetest scent.

The name 'Soapwort' comes from the soapy lather that can be produced when the roots are crushed together. It forms a very gentle soap that is sometimes still used today for the cleansing of old, fragile textiles.

Crocosmia

Another flower that makes it difficult to choose just one variety of! Whilst the 'fashion' is against right oranges and reds in the borders, anyone who has seen crocosmias backlit by the late summer sun can't fail to fall in love with them.

The name 'crocosmia' comes from the Greek words 'Krokos' (meaning Saffron) and 'osme' (meaning smell) and refer to the saffron-like smell that is given off when the dried flowers are dipped in water.

Crinum x powellii

These beautiful bulbs can produce up to 10, large, highly scented blooms of the softest pink on a single stem.

Although not the hardiest of plants the ones we have in our garden, here in the east of England, have survived unprotected through several winters including the awful winter of 2010/11!

Hydrangea macrophylla 'Great Star'

Whilst most people are familiar with the more common 'Mop-head' hydrangeas, we can't help but prefer the macrophyllas - especially 'Great Star'.

Commonly known as the 'shooting star' hydrangeas, they produce large heads of white buds that open randomly into large star shaped flowers. Although they will tolerate full sun, the flowers will last much longer if grown in some shade.

Olearia haastii

More commonly known as the 'Daisy Bush', this delightful evergreen shrub gains its name from the copious small, white, daisylike flowers with a delighful scent of honey, that almost smother the bush at this time of year.

This plant is so tolerant it can cope with coastal conditions and can even be trimmed as an informal hedge.