October
Pyracantha coccinea
I’m always drawn to Pyracantha coccinea for the strength and structure it brings to a garden, with its glossy evergreen foliage and dense, thorny form. This is a plant that provides solid year-round interest. In spring, it’s smothered in clusters of creamy white flowers, followed by vivid berries in shades of orange-red that brighten the garden through autumn and onwards into winter. It will add texture and seasonal contrast to boundary planting, where it offers both beauty and security in equal measure.
Parthenocissus tricuspidata
This climber may be vigorous and rather rampant, but it is so worth a little effort for its absolutely glorious display of fiery red and gold leaves in autumn. Traditionally grown over large, old houses, it will fill whatever space you provide it. It self-clings to walls and trellis but will need keeping in check around windows and gutters. However, it can absolutely light up a building as the leaves positively glow in the low autumn sun.
​
Euonymus europaeus Red Cascade
​
A large deciduous shrub commonly know as Spindle Berry. Often seen planted as part of a mixed native hedge this shrub comes into its own in autumn and winter, when its dark green leaves turn a blazing scarlet. Insignificant summer flowers from May to June are followed by gorgeous, orange-pink, winged fruit which remain long after the leaves have fallen. It looks wonderful in a winter border among early-flowering bulbs or shrubs grown for winter interest. The autumn colour is spectacular in full sun, but 'Red Cascade' will also grow reasonably well in partial shade and is fully hardy.
Tricyrtis Formosa ‘Dark Beauty’
​
Commonly known as the Toad Lily, this is a plant that I always look forward to in the autumn. It sits just below my kitchen window in a very shady north facing border. It never fails to lift my spirits on a dull day. The purple spotted star shaped flowers remind me of an orchid and are set off well against the smooth deeply veined leaves. It is the perfect plant for a tricky spot where you want late interest. The toad lily flowers from September through to the end of October and is fully hardy requiring little or no attention. It makes a lovely and unusual addition to any shady or woodland border. 30cm W x 50cmH
