Californian Lilac. Once Joyce gets settled in the garden she will spread herself around a bit as she grows wider than she is tall. Great plant for hot dry banks. Masses of bright blue blooms spring-summer. Likes the sun and good drainage and protection from harsh frost. Evergreen.

Ceanothus fix nitrogen from the atmosphere so require no fertiliser.

If you like blue then the Californian Lilac is the plant for you. Lovely glossy evergreen foliage and in spring profuse clusters of bright blue flowers put on a really dazzling show. Copes well with a hot dry position making this spreading shrub ideal for banks and walls. Appreciates a regular haircut.

Ceanothus fix nitrogen from the atmosphere so require no fertiliser.

Small tree with narrow leaves which emerge rich coppery red turning dark green above and pale green below. Clusters of white flowers in creamy white bracts which are followed by bright red sepals. Best in well drained good soil that does not get too dry. Prefers warm sheltered site. Protect from heavy frost. Evergreen

A tough and hardy deciduous shrub with an arching network of bare branches that usually have thorns. In winter these are covered with clusters of tight buds that open out to single bright red flowers. Nice complementary fresh green foliage. Very showy, good for floral art. Easy to grow.

A tough and hardy deciduous shrub with an arching network of bare branches that usually have thorns. In winter these are covered with clusters of buds that open out to bright little blooms of vibrant orange adding colour to dull winter days. Green summer foliage. Easy to grow.

A tough and hardy deciduous shrub with an interesting network of bare branches that usually have thorns. In winter these are covered with tight clusters of buds that open out to exquisite white blooms that tinge followed by gold-green fruit. Great for floral art.

A tough and hardy deciduous shrub with an interesting network of bare branches that usually have thorns. In winter these are covered with tight clusters of buds that open out to double blooms of rich red. The flowers are followed by ornamental fruit that look like small quinces and fresh green foliage.

A tough and hardy deciduous shrub with an arching network of bare branches that usually have thorns. In winter these are covered with clusters of tight buds that open out to single orange flowers. Nice complementary fresh green foliage. Very showy, good for floral art. Easy to grow.

A tough and hardy deciduous shrub with an arching network of bare branches that usually have thorns. In winter these are covered with clusters of tight buds that open out to single orange flowers. Nice complementary fresh green foliage. Very showy, good for floral art. Easy to grow.

A tough and hardy deciduous shrub with an arching network of bare branches that usually have thorns. In winter these are covered with clusters of tight buds that open out to double pink flowers. Nice complementary fresh green foliage. Very showy, good for floral art. Easy to grow.