The leaves of this vigorous, bushy cultivar are more deeply cut than the species acer, and provide a dramatic splash of autumn colour. Adding a strong architectural presence to any garden, it requires little maintenance.
The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
Iris
sibirica Siberian iris
This graceful spring-flowering iris has rich purple blooms. Easy to grow, it enjoys a sunny or partially shaded spot in moist but well-drained, acid to neutral soil. To propagate, divide plants from mid-summer to early autumn. It makes a great planting partner for other moisture-loving plants, such as hostas and ligularia. For a bold effect plant it next to purple-leaved shrubs.
Rheum
palmatum var. tanguticum Rhubarb
The large, jagged leaves of this rhubarb bring architectural drama to a moist pond edge. As well as being a valuble ornamental plant, its red stems are full of flavour, making this a variety well worth growing as an edible crop. Divide the rootstock in spring with a knife, leaving one bud on each division, or sow seed in autumn.
The long-lasting, button-like, bright yellow, double flowers of this buttercup are a really uplifting sight and will command attention in meadows, cottage gardens or flower arrangements. Unlike the species buttercup, it doesn't spread by underground runners and is more clump-forming, which makes it much more suitable for a garden situation.
This plant has been given the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM).
Digitalis
purpurea
'Albiflora' Foxglove
Foxglove is a common favourite, and 'Albiflora' is no exception. This cultivar produces elegant spires of white tubular flowers in June, which are enjoyed by bees throughout the summer. For the best displays, it should be grown annually from seed. Sow in late spring where you want it to flower for blooms the following year. It will grow in virtually any soil as long as it is not very wet or very dry.
All parts of the plant cause severe discomfort if ingested. Use gloves when handling the plant as the foliage can irritate the skin.
To view the panoramic image, click on the garden with your mouse and drag it around the picture. To find out about the planting hotspots in the garden, click on the leaf icon. To watch a video about the architectural features in the garden, click on the arrow icon.
If you're having problems viewing the panoramic images, take a look at our still photography of all of the show gardens.
"For me this is the garden that's responsible for who I am as a gardener. I came here when I was seven or eight and was mesmerised by the theatre of the garden, the revealed views, the strong geometries. I felt there was something magical about what had been created. It's the one garden I keep coming back to, it's the most influential garden for me.
"The garden that Johnston wanted to create at Hidcote Manor was one of reserved flamboyance with the formal geometry of one room leading to another. There's a rhythm and a pace to the garden but contrasted with plants that leap out at you with enthusiasm. That's what I'm trying to recreate at Chelsea."
Watch a video tour
"For me this is the garden that's responsible for who I am as a gardener. I came here when I was seven or eight and was mesmerised by the theatre of the garden, the revealed views, the strong geometries. I felt there was something magical about what had been created. It's the one garden I keep coming back to, it's the most influential garden for me.
