March – Our Expert’s Picks for Your Garden

As we head into the warmer months, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about how the plants you choose can bring colour, texture, and lasting beauty to your garden. Our experts have selected four stunning perennial plants that will not only look beautiful in your garden but also attract pollinators and thrive year after year. From striking star-shaped flowers to rich, deep-toned flowers, here are our expert’s top picks for March:

Allium ‘Christophii’ – A bold, show-stopping beauty

When it comes to creating a statement in your garden, Allium ‘Christophii’ is hard to beat. This stunning perennial produces huge floral globes featuring striking star-shaped flowers in a metallic purple hue. Standing tall at up to 60cm, with individual flower heads reaching 20cm wide, it’s a true garden showstopper.

Why We Recommend It: Plant this allium in groups for a truly bold statement, especially when placed in sunny spots. From late spring to early summer, you’ll enjoy its vibrant blooms for weeks. Allium ‘Christophii’ attracts bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to any pollinator-friendly garden. The metallic purple blooms also work wonderfully as part of dried floral displays.

Pair it with ground cover plants like Heucheras, Nepeta, or Hardy Geraniums for a complementary contrast that will make the Allium pop!

Aquilegia ‘Barlow Black’ – Deep, dramatic flowers

If you’re looking for something a little darker and more dramatic, Aquilegia ‘Barlow Black’ is the perfect choice. This stunning columbine features dark, almost black flowers with soft, frilled petals, creating a striking contrast in your garden. Reaching up to 75cm, its elegant, arching stems look fabulous when planted in mixed borders or woodland areas.

Why We Recommend It: The deep, dark flowers of Aquilegia ‘Barlow Black’ are unlike anything else in the garden, adding a touch of mystery and elegance. Despite its bold appearance, this plant is loved by bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to any garden. Aquilegia is a hardy perennial that thrives in both sun and partial shade, perfect for those looking for beauty with minimal effort.

Pair with lighter, pastel-coloured plants like Astilbe or Campanula (Bellflower) for a dramatic contrast that will leave your garden looking effortlessly chic.

Armeria ‘Dreameria Sweet Dreams’ – A cute, compact performer

Armeria ‘Dreameria Sweet Dreams’ is the perfect choice for gardeners looking to add texture and vibrancy to their sunny spots. This charming plant produces vivid pink flowers atop neat, compact mounds of evergreen foliage. At just 20-25cm tall, it’s ideal for the front of borders, containers, or even as ground cover.

Why We Recommend It: The soft pink flowers provide a beautiful contrast against their green foliage and continue to bloom from spring into summer. With its compact size and drought-tolerant nature, Armeria is ideal for low-maintenance gardens. Bees love its bright flowers, making it a great choice for eco-conscious gardeners.

Its small stature and resilience make it perfect for adding a pop of colour to even the smallest of spaces. Plant it alongside other perennial plants like Nepeta or Sedum for a stunning display.

Lupin ‘West Country Persian Slipper’ – A tall, elegant beauty

Lupins are a classic favourite, and West Country Persian Slipper brings a fresh, unique twist to these timeless plants. Featuring tall spires of vibrant, two-tone flowers in shades of purple and cream, this variety stands out in any border. Reaching up to 90cm in height, it’s perfect for adding height and drama to your garden.

Why We Recommend It: The striking colour combination of purple and cream makes a real statement, whether planted alone or in mixed borders. Lupins thrive in full sun, where they will bloom abundantly from late spring to early summer. Like many lupins, ‘West Country Persian Slipper’ is a favourite of bees, making it a fantastic addition to any wildlife-friendly garden.

The tall, stately flowers of this lupin are perfect for adding vertical interest to your garden. Combine it with Delphiniums, Foxgloves, or Salvias for a colourful, cottage-style border.

From the bold, metallic purple of Allium ‘Christophii’ to the deep, dramatic flowers of Aquilegia ‘Barlow Black,’ each of these handpicked perennial plants will bring something special to your garden. Whether you’re looking to attract pollinators, add texture and height, or simply enjoy beautiful, long-lasting flowers, these plants are sure to enhance your outdoor space. If you’re looking for garden inspiration this season take a look at the NGS Garden Scheme, there’s plenty coming up in 2025!

Why not explore our website it’s your home for garden plants including Perennials, Shrubs, and Roses

You might also like this The Perfect Plant Collection For your Garden