The plants in this collection will die right back in autumn, then fresh new growth will appear again in spring.

Pockets of moist (but not waterlogged) shade, whether they be at the upper edges of a pond or stream, or simply in badly drained areas in the garden, are often tricky to plant up. The plants in this collection will take these difficult conditions in their stride and look great while they do it.



In this collection you will receive one of each of the following plants. They are all supplied in 9cm nursery pots:


• Primula japonica 'Miller's Crimson': Attractive tiers of deep reddish-purple flowers appear on stout, upright stems in late spring and early summer. We think this striking candelabra primula is one of the best forms currently available. It should be planted in generous drifts. Grows to 45cm.
  
  
• Primula vialii: Dense crimson flower spikes open from the base into vivid lilac flowers, like a purple form of red hot poker. This summer-flowering primula will add a splash of colour to the front of a shady border. Grows to 60cm.
  
  
• Hosta 'Devon Green': Primarily grown for its lush-looking foliage, which forms dense mounds from spring to autumn, but the pale lilac, lily-like flowers that appear in midsummer are also really pretty. Grows to 50cm.
  
  
• Matteuccia struthiopteris: This wonderful deciduous shuttlecock fern is at its most beautiful in spring when the large, pale green, lacy fronds start to unfurl and filter the sunlight. Grows to 1.7m.



• Planting tips:
  Prepare the bed well by digging in lots of composted organic matter before you plant. For best results it is essential that the plants are kept well watered for the first year, particularly during warmer weather.