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aka Ligularia

When I first saw this plant a few years ago it was a definite have to have. The deep maroon, large luscious round leaves have a hint of the erotic about them. Bright orange/yellow flowers appear in summer but are insignificant compared to the foliage. Yum.

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aka Elephant Ears

This is a bold specimen perennial that needs a moist location. It forms a mound of large, rounded dark, shiny purple-black leaves. Taller stems appear in mid summer bearing clusters of bright golden-orange daisy flowers. Superb for the back of the border, or at the waterside. Perennial.

An unusual centerpiece for a tub or large container. Both the flowers and leaves are great for cutting.

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aka Tractor Seat Ligularia

If you are looking for fabulous foliage then the leaves of the 'Tractor Seat' Ligularia are hard to beat. Large, glossy, green and textured, the leaves put on an outstanding display in a shady spot. Stems of yellow flowers in autumn-winter. Evergreen.

This plant is commonly known as Ligularia but is more correctly called Farfugium japonicum var giganteum

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Rukuhia Beauty is the perfect, shade loving, groundcover for smaller gardens with its lush foliage of dark green. Likes moist earth and a dressing of slow release fert to support its growth periods. Low maintenance plant with high return, looks great planted enmasse. Perennial

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aka Leopard Plant

Outstanding foliage plant with large lush rounded leaves decorated with yellow spots. The yellow daisy like flowers appear in summer but are not the main feature compared to the leaves. Will grow in sun or semi-shade, prefers soil that does not dry out too much in summer. Evergreen.

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A clump forming striking perennial with big yellow spotted green leaves. This plants grows in sun or partially shade. Forms a great highlight in woodland areas. The yellow daisy like flowers appear in summer but are not the main feature compared to the leaves. Prefers not to dry out in summer.

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aka AKA Lithospermum

Lovely to spill over a wall or a bank this spreading groundcover has beautiful medium blue flowers in spring and summer. The dark green leaves are somewhat 'hairy' on trailing stems. Likes a well drained, warm spot but can cope with afternoon shade. Cut back after flowering. Evergreen.

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aka Lithospermum

A great little spreading groundcover for those of you who love bright blue. Hairy green leaves on trailing stems are covered with masses of deep blue flowers in spring and summer. Likes a well drained, warm spot but can cope with afternoon shade. Cut back after flowering. Evergreen.

It is important to note that Lithodora resent root disturbance so take care when weeding to treat it tenderly.

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aka Lithospermum

A great little groundcover to sprawl over a hot dry bank or in the rock garden. Darkest green foliage and brightest blue flowers from late spring through to summer. Trim regularly to keep tidy. Protect from harsh frost and avoid lime. Evergreen.

Compact, heat tolerant lobelia with vivid blue flowers with a white centre. Great for hanging baskets or as a groundcover. Prefers full sun in good drainage. Protect from frost and slugs and snails. Repeat flowerer.