@Papi Jo I've just looked that up, thank you, I wasn't aware of that variety. Unfortunately it won't work for me though. I use the mahonia as a wind break in an exposed position, it's about 10 feet tall and sits behind/over a native hedge - there's fields beyond that and the wind can get extremely strong. So I went for something that gives protection and winter color.
Although every spring I curse it when I'm picking up the world's most spiky, painful leaves...!
@strelitzia32 Thanks for your explanation. Protecting your garden from strong winds vs. protecting your hands from those spiky leaves, it's your choice.
I had a mahonia (the ordinary species) in my garden once which fortunately kicked the bucket. Will never have one again.
@pitter-patter - oooo, lovely pics. Is the salvia Nacht? What is the plant with red leaves? Stunning; Like you have been painting the leaves with a very small brush.
Why are hellebores so exciting? I have none budding yet.
@B3 you're in a sheltered London location, aren't you? Lovely photos, surprised you still have snapdragons flowering. I've had ground frosts for the last 4 days now, everything be deaded.... At least the parsnips will be ready!
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Although every spring I curse it when I'm picking up the world's most spiky, painful leaves...!
I have cut back all the old leaves of the hellebores and discovered these nice plump buds.
The red leaves belong to a small cotinus I’m trying to train as a tree, beautiful markings.