1. Kniphofia
If you’re looking for a plant that captures the spirit of adventure, look no further than the Kniphofia. Its vibrant, tubular flowers cluster together on tall, stiff spikes, resembling a torch or a rocket ready for launch. The ‘Mango Popsicle’ variety lives up to its name, with flowers that start a deep orange-red and mellow to a tangerine hue as they mature. This striking plant brings an unmistakable pop of bold colour and a wonderful vertical element to any bed or container, making it a spectacular focal point for an intrepid garden explorer.
2. Echinacea purpurea
A true classic, Echinacea is the perfect plant for a bustling, wildlife-friendly adventure garden. Its large, daisy-like flowerheads are a magnet for bees and butterflies, turning your garden into a lively hub of activity. The upright, rigid stems and prominent central cones make the plant look like a friendly, spiky satellite dish for a secret mission. It’s tough, reliable, and provides months of glorious color, continuing to flower well into late summer and early autumn.
3. Heuchera ‘Fire Chief’
An adventure isn’t just about what’s blooming—it’s about rich textures and unexpected discoveries. Heuchera ‘Fire Chief’ offers a year-round show with its spectacular deep red and burgundy wine foliage. The leaves have a lustrous sheen, creating a dramatic, jewel-toned groundcover that contrasts brilliantly with the bright flowers around it. It adds a touch of mystery and depth to the garden, perfect for a secret grotto or a hidden corner.
4. Carex testacea
Every journey needs a sense of movement. This ornamental grass, with its slim, arching leaves, provides a graceful, flowing element to the Adventure garden. Starting out a subtle olive green, the foliage matures into a warm copper-bronze, adding a wonderful visual texture and a sense of natural wildness. It billows in the slightest breeze, bringing the garden to life and creating a soft backdrop for the more extravagant blooms. Its color is a perfect fit for the late summer palette.
These four plants work in harmony to create a garden that is not only beautiful but also full of energy and personality. By planting them in late summer, you give them the perfect conditions to establish themselves for a magnificent display next year.
To find out more about The Adventure click here, and to buy an Adventure Starter Pack, click here.
