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Agapanthus
Agapanthus is commonly referred to as Lily of the Nile or African lily, although it is not actually a lily. These bold and striking plants have become increasingly popular in recent years, fitting in well with mixed borders and containers alike. Description Agapanthuses are perennial plants that are usually grown for their impressive flowers. The…
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Allium
The generic name of Allium is the Latin word for garlic and there are hundreds of distinct species. As quite a hardy flower, it is popular with gardeners as it grows quite well by itself, as long as it doesn’t become water-logged. Some species are even said to have medicinal properties and are often used…
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Alpinia
The genus name of Alpinia originates from Prospero Alpina, an Italian botanist who took a keen interest in exotic plants. The striking nature of this eye-catching flower means it regularly forms part of tropical flower arrangements and the leaves are also commonly used for floral decoration. Some species are even said to have medicinal properties…
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Alstroemeria
The Alstroemeria flower is commonly referred to by one of three nicknames – the Parrot Lily, Peruvian Lily or Lily of the Incas. It can be a tricky plant to grow in the UK as many avid gardeners know only too well, but persevere and it will be well worth the effort when it does…
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Amaranthus
The Amaranthus genus is more commonly referred to as Amaranth and contains around 60 species, many of which are a popular choice with gardeners keen to add a splash of colour and a touch of the exotic to beds and borders. There is some debate within the gardening fraternity about whether certain Amaranth species are…
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Ammi
Ammi majus is the most commonly occurring variety of Ammi and its common names include bishop’s week, bullwort, laceflower and Queen Anne’s lace. Ammi is popular as a garden plant and is used by gardeners to fill foliage space and create a cohesive flower bed. Description When Ammi varieties flower, they do so in large…
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Anemone
Anemone gets its name from “anemos”, the greek word for wind. It is sometimes called the windflower and the botanical name is pronounced a-NEM-o-nee. Description These perennial flowers have long stems and petals that flower in a variety of colours. The petals are small and round and most flower heads have about five or six…
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Arum
The generic name of Arum, more formally known as Zantedeschia Aethiopica, is a hardy flower which is known for containing large amounts of calcium oxalate, which is extremely poisonous if ingested. Description The Arum have white, cone-shaped flowers with striking, glossy, arrow-shaped leaves. A strong and and solid flower, the Arum lily is also characterised…
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Astrantia
With a name derived from the Latin word for ‘star’ (aster), Astrantia is well-known and loved for the star-like quality of its flower heads. Astrantia major, maxima and carnicolica are also known affectionately as the ‘elancholy gentleman’, ‘masterwort’ and ‘Hattie’s pincushion’. Habitat Astrantia has historically flourished through widespread growth in Central, Eastern and Southern Europe…
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Bouvardia
Bouvardia was named in honour of Charles Bouvard, who lived in the 17th century, and was physician to Louis XIII, King of France. It is said to represent enthusiasm and is given as a gift for those who have a zest for life. Habitat The Bouvardia is native to Mexico and tropical America, namely Arizona,…
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