This is not just a superlative rhododendron, it is in fact one of the most magnificent plants one can grow. Maturing as a large evergreen shrub, it can, in many years, become a tree, with enormous, magnificent, glossy dark green leaves up to 30cm in length, with whitish down beneath. The large flowers, in dense rounded trusses, are bell-shaped, cream to pale yellow with a purple blotch in the throat. Both the BBC and Independent TV companies filmed this in full flower during the spring here in Plant World Gardens, whilst visitors come to our gardens especially to see these plants in full blo ... Learn More

Large, widely-expanded trumpets, either solitary or in pairs, in shades of red, pink or yellow, open on strong, stout stems, and one or two strap-shaped leaves also arise from the large underground bulb. Originally collected on the Plant World Chilean expedition of 1994, these lovely plants spend a long time under dry snow in the winter, but when they erupt in early summer it is worth the wait. ... Learn More

These superb amaryllis relatives display large trumpet-shaped flowers and thin strap-shaped leaves. These seeds have been collected from red and pink forms of these gorgeous plants high in the Andes. Plants will do best in well-drained compost in large pots or a protected scree. ... Learn More

Closely related to Kerria, this rarely encountered deciduous shrub is the only species in this (monotypic) genus. It has arching shoots and tapered, sharply toothed, deeply veined mid-green leaves, above which, in late spring and early summer, sizeable, four-petalled white flowers are produced from shoot tips, the large glossy black berries following later. ... Learn More

"Stag's-horn Sumach". Velvety shoots produce large divided leaves turning brilliant purple and orange in autumn. Clusters of deepest red fruits are displayed on female plants. If cut back hard in spring, enormous leaves, up to three-feet long, are produced. ... Learn More

Ricinus communis 'Carmencita Bright Red', commonly referred to as Carmencita Bright Red Castor Bean, is a dramatic, fast-growing ornamental plant that captivates with its bold foliage and vibrant seed pods. The plant features deeply lobed, dark burgundy to bronze leaves that provide a stunning contrast in garden beds and borders. Its standout feature is the striking, bright red seed pods that emerge in mid to late summer, adding a splash of vivid color to any landscape. This tropical-looking plant thrives in full sun and well-drained, fertile soils, making it a popular choice for creating f ... Learn More

Huge, bright green, shiny leaves adorn this lovely thick-trunked Cretian form of the "Castor Oil Plant". This is the quite rarely offered, true wild form, bearing dazzling, bright red flower buds and seed pods amongst large dark green leaves. If grown in warm climates it will ultimately make a sturdy tree. Please note that these seeds are extremely poisonous if eaten. ... Learn More

This selected form of Ricinus, the "Castor Oil Plant", has brighter red leaves and seed heads than many other forms, the deep red/bronze shiny leaves only producing their strongest leaf colour when in full sun and as it matures, and please note, the first few leaves will just be green! This absolutely stunning plant will in time grow into a tree in warmer countries. Please note that these seeds are extremely poisonous if eaten. ... Learn More

Ricinus communis 'Impala', commonly known as Impala Castor Bean, is a striking ornamental plant prized for its bold, exotic appearance. This compact cultivar features deeply lobed, glossy bronze-red leaves that create a dramatic contrast in the garden. Its architectural form is complemented by bright red seed pods that emerge in summer, adding both texture and color to borders, containers, or tropical-themed landscapes. Growing quickly to a manageable height of 4–5 feet, Ricinus 'Impala' thrives in full sun and well-drained, fertile soils. While highly decorative, gardeners must note that a ... Learn More

Ricinus communis 'Zanzibarensis', commonly known as Zanzibar Castor Bean, is a towering ornamental plant that adds bold, tropical flair to any garden. Renowned for its massive size, this cultivar can reach heights of up to 15 feet in a single growing season, making it an excellent choice for dramatic focal points or screening. Its huge, deeply lobed, palmate leaves are green with a slight bronze tint, creating a lush, jungle-like effect. Bright red seed pods emerge in mid to late summer, providing additional visual interest. This fast-growing plant thrives in full sun and well-drained, fert ... Learn More

Gorgeous sprays of fragrant creamy-white or pink star-shaped flowers are borne in open panicles on woolly, red-brown stalks. Impressive, strongly veined, horse-chestnut-like leaves form a solid mound on this robust, clump-forming plant. The Royal Horticultural Society have deservedly given it the Award of Garden Merit (AGM). ... Learn More

Fluffy plates of brilliant pink flowers turn into crimson seed heads, above impressive clumps of mahogany-bronze burnished pinnate leaves. Although it is outstanding in rich or boggy soil, it puts up a superb show wherever you decide to put it, apart from a hot dry bank! ... Learn More

Sprays of delicate white flowers open on short stems, above rosettes of rounded, fleshy leaves on this beautiful little deciduous,tufted plant which blooms in spring and is dormant in summer when it dies down to small tubers. This rarely seen or grown plant is native to the coastline of western North America from far northern California north, where it grows among rocks on ocean side bluffs. ... Learn More

Probably the best and most robust of all of the "Mistmaidens", this really pretty plant makes an attractive clump of shiny, almost circular, dark green fleshy leaves, that could have been carved from wax. Pushing through this cushion appear sprays of pretty, milky-white flowers. This lovely plant finally dies completely away in the heat of summer to deep, underground tubers. Native to western North America from California and north to Alaska, it is totally hardy. ... Learn More

Although it dies down in winter, this substantial gem creates a shrub-like effect in summer, with many upright, branching stems clothed in leathery, silver-grey glaucous leaves. These are topped with fat buds, which open into spectacular poppy-like flowers with golden-yellow centres, and crumpled tissue-paper-like petals pinned together with the mass of yellow stamens. It thrives best in a warm, sunny sheltered position. ... Learn More