June
Enkianthus campanulatus Red Bells
From April to June the Enkianthus drips with masses of beautiful bells that seem to have been dipped in rose red ink. They dance amongst dark green leaves attracting bees and other pollinators. Then, in autumn the leaves put on a wonderful display of red, yellow and gold. They thrive on acidic soil and need little maintenance other than a mulch with ericaceous compost and an occasional pruning to keep shaped cut out any diseased or damaged wood.
Kolwitzia amabilis 'Pink Cloud'
This lovely shrub, also known as the Beauty Bush, produces pink and white foxglove-like flowers with yellow throats from May to June. It is a deciduous, sucking shrub with arching stems and masses of flowers. It is a great addition to any mixed or shrub border as it thrives in both sun and partial shade. It is fully hardy and very tolerant of a range of soil conditions including chalk. Ultimately it grows to 4m wide and 3m tall but can be kept in check with pruning which should be done after flowering in mid summer. A beautiful plant that lives up well to its name.
