As autumn is definitely here now, as can be felt by the lowering of temperatures and rain, I thought I would brighten up a rather rainy day by announcing the star plant of the season award. (Just in my opinion, taking into account what is actually looking good in my garden now, you understand). So, with no further ado, runner up prizes go to...Anemone hupehensis 'Bowles' Pink', introduced into the garden just last weekend and looking beautiful with pink flowers and bright green foliage. (I took these photos earlier in the week before the rain arrived.)
A runner up prize is also awarded to Aster novae-angliae 'September Ruby' (I think), which is looking bright and cheerful.
A third runner up prize has to go to cyclamen hederifolium, with its understated elegance and delicate swept back petals, especially as I thought I had lost it, but then it surprised me by appearing and is blooming away.
But the prize has to go to...drum roll...Aster 'Little Carlow', which is looking amazing!
It is a mass of pretty lilac flowers and is brightening up a rather dingy area rather wonderfully, all by itself.
Just look at the number of flowers (and this is just one plant).
How gorgeous are they (if you like lilac)?
I even love the way that the centres change colour as the flowers age. I think it is obvious, that to quote Brucie (yes, it is Strictly Come Dancing time again), "You're my favourite"!
So, a worthy winner, even if now it is leaning at rather a drunken angle, due to all the rain making it somewhat top heavy. Still, I have no doubt that winners of awards do lean at rather drunken angles once they are heading home after the party!
