
In spring, early flowerers such as Primula florindae, Primula wilsonii and Iris sibirica ‘Tycoon’ provide a welcome splash of colour. These are followed by other herbaceous perennials such as Ligularia japonica, Euphorbia griffithii, Lathyrus palustris and the sensitive fern Onoclea sensibilis, all of which thrive in the additional moisture. A mature specimen of the rare native fern Osmunda regalis forms an imposing clump at the water’s edge, and an unusual shrub, Itea ilicifolia, makes a great late summer show when the handsome holly-like leaves contrast with the long, drooping racemes of greenish-white flowers.
