Best Plants for an English Garden

Best Plants for an English Garden

There is something so charming about an English garden. Perhaps it is the fact that they are designed to appear effortless, as though they have simply grown that way naturally. Or maybe it is because they always seem to be in bloom, no matter what time of year it is. If you are hoping to create your own little piece of England in your backyard, here are some of the best plants to use.

 

 

Lavender

Lavender

One of the most iconic English plants, lavender is known for its beautiful fragrance. Lavender blooms from mid-spring through early summer and does best in full sun. You will often see lavender used as a border plant or in hedges.

 

Peony

Peony

Peonies are another classic English garden plant. They are known for their large, showy flowers which bloom in May or June. Peonies come in a range of colors including white, pink, and red. They make a great addition to any garden and are also popular for cutting and arrangements.

 

Phlox

Creeping Phlox

Phlox is a member of the polemoniaceae family and is related to the Jacob’s ladder plant. It blooms from June through August and comes in a variety of colors including white, pink, purple, and red. Phlox is a great addition to any garden as it adds color and Interest throughout the summer months.

 

Primrose

Primrose (Primula vulgaris)

Primroses are one of the first flowers to bloom in the springtime. They come in a wide range of colors including yellow, pink, purple, red, and white. Primroses make a great addition to any springtime garden as they add color and life after a long winter.

 

Roses

Roses are perhaps the most iconic English garden plant of all. They come in an endless variety of colors and sizes and can be used in borders, beds, or as stand-alone plants. Roses are also popular for cutting and arrangements. No matter what type of rose you choose, you can be sure it will add beauty and charm to your garden.

 

Peachleaf Bellflower

Peachleaf Bellflower

This plant gets its name from its bell-shaped flowers that range in color from deep purple to blue. The Peachleaf Bellflower is a hardy plant that thrives in zones three through eight. It’s a perfect candidate for an English garden as it prefers full sun and humus-rich soil.

 

Cottage Pinks

Cottage Pinks

These charming flowers are a must-have for any cottage garden. Cottage Pinks are low-growing and spreading, making them ideal for edging along paths or filling in bare spots in your garden. They bloom from late spring through early summer and come in a variety of colors including pink, white, and red. Cottage Pinks prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade and well-drained soil.

 

Delphinium

Larkspur

Also known as Larkspur, Delphiniums are tall, stately flowers that range in color from blue to pink to white. They make a dramatic statement in any garden and are perfect for cut flowers. Delphiniums prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.

 

Hardy Geranium

Geranium

Hardy Geraniums are versatile plants that can be used as ground cover, edging, or even in containers. They have five-petaled flowers that bloom from May through September and come in colors including white, pink, blue, and violet. Hardy Geraniums prefer full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.

 

Hollyhock

Hollyhock

Hollyhocks are tall flowering plants that add both height and color to any garden. Their flowers can be single or double and come in colors including yellow, pink, red, purple, or maroon. Hollyhocks prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade and rich, moist soil.

 

Japanese Anemone

Anemone Red

Also known as the windflower, this plant is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your garden. It blooms from late summer through fall and comes in a variety of colors including white, pink, and purple. Japanese anemones are very versatile and can be used in borders, beds, or even as cut flowers.