I'm starting with a blank canvas for my garden and I'm eager to fill it with plants from the Commonwealth or the old British Empire—think of what a ship's surgeon from 'Master and Commander' might have brought back from his travels. I'm particularly interested in ideas that include plants from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Nigeria, and Uganda. Any suggestions?
2 Answers
As an Aussie, I’d recommend trying a small eucalyptus! They can do really well, but make sure it's suited to your climate. Keeping it in a pot is a good idea, especially if you’re in a tight space without much room to spread out. Oh, and if you’ve got kangaroo paw, any tips on helping it thrive? Mine seems to go through a rough patch in winter but always perks up in spring.
You might want to think twice about assuming that all plants from hot regions will thrive in a UK garden. I’ve got palms, aloes, and kangaroo paws that are doing just fine down south near the coast with well-draining clay soil. And not all of the Commonwealth is baking hot—why not check out New Zealand plants, Banksia, or southern Australian tea trees? I know folks in Brixton growing bananas with tiny fruits—it’s totally doable!
Exactly! Stop being such a pessimist! There’s plenty of variety out there that can thrive in different climates.
I had a huge eucalyptus in my old place—it was stunning! I don’t really do anything special, just let nature take its course. It gets a bit sad in winter but comes back beautifully in spring.