Perennials and shrubs continue to offer up surprises and pleasure in the late autumn Perennial Meadows’ garden.
Grasses making an important contribution include various cultivars of Miscanthus sinensis; some tall and dramatic, others stiffly upright and low-growing forms such as ‘Pagels’ (above) which is more interesting for its autumnal foliage colour than its flowers.
Miscanthus sinensis ‘Kleine Silberspinne’
Miscanthus sinensis ‘Hermann Mussel’
Back lighting is the key to placing plants such as these which flower or colour up in autumn.
Both shrubs as well as perennials offer autumn colours that draw attention in this season. The transience of such spectacles makes them all the more worthwhile.
Clethra alnifolia
Amsonia hubrichtii
Whilst most perennials and shrubs are in a rapid transition to their winter states, some plants remain fresh and green. This Polystichum fern looks lush and is still unfurling new fronds at the very end of October. It will remain like this until the end of spring when it will completely renew its winter-worn foliage.
It wont be long before all these tints are just a memory – enjoy them whilst you can.
