help needed ?

Hi all, 

I've been meaning to join a gardening forum for a while but not got around to it and sadly had my hand forced tonight by damaging one of my favourite garden plants.

It was left here when we moved in buried in the garden which could only be described as a scene from Narnia! I have no idea what it is but i've always been keen on it. So i supoose the first question is... what is it? 

Secondly I snapped the main branch of tonight so im worried about the effect this may have, is there anything i can do ? 

As you may be able to tell im not gardening expert but do enjoy it. i've posted a before and after picture. many thanks

The final pic is out of date, the garden is complete now, new shed, etc more plants. i'll post a better photo tomorrow.