Welsh Poppies (Meconopsis cambrica)

Today I spotted the first flowers of the Welsh Poppy in my garden. This is a self seeding, short lived perennial which will grow in practically any type of soil and any position, unlike other Menocopsis species which require moist soil and light shade. It grows to approximately 12 inches in height and spread, having deeply dissected mid green leaves and producing yellow or orange flowers between June and September.
I planted the Welsh poppy in my garden a couple of years ago but the original plant did not survive for long due to a particularly cold winter. However, it has self seeded and I now have a healthy looking clump of deep amber flowers in the border. While dead heading will prolong the flowering season, it is worth leaving one or two seed heads in place in order to collect the seed and sow it as soon as it ripens in August or September. Sow the seeds under glass and overwinter the seedlings in a well ventilated greenhouse or cold frame ready to plant out in spring. Seeds can be sown in spring but germination is slower. These vibrantly coloured flowers look stunning when planted alongside bluebells.

Saxifraga urbium (London Pride)

Saxifraga urbium (commonly called London Pride) is a rock plant originating from the Pyrenees. It was a popular plant a few years ago, being found in many town gardens. In recent years it seems to have fallen from favour but I think it is a useful and attractive plant.
Rosettes of evergreen leaves make excellent ground cover, the variegated form having leaves with attractive splashes of yellow. In late spring stems up to 12 inches tall carry clouds of delicate pink and white flowers. This is a plant which likes shade and will tolerate poor soil provided it is not too dry. Damp shade is its preferred habitat. Plant it near paths so you can see the rosettes. These rosettes of evergreen leaves can spread quite rapidly once established forming an evergreen carpet.
New rosettes can be gently pulled off and replanted in late summer, preferably in wet weather. I have planted the variegated form, with its beautiful green and gold leaves, at the front of the border next to the seating area.