Aucuba himalaiaca dolichophylla

A slow growing and compact ‘spotted laurel’ up to about 4ft high with attractive narrow dark green foliage, lightly spotted with yellow. This is a male clone with striking dark red flowers in conspicuous branching sprays in early spring.

For exactly the same conditions as the common species but much choicer. Many thanks to Nymans for the original plant. aka Aucuba chinensis angusta
sold out

Helwingia

All these plants are in large pots now

Helwingia chinensis

A peculiar evergreen woodland shrub which makes its flowers on the upper surfaces of the leaves (the flower stem is fused to the midrib). This on its own makes it a botanical curio, but it is also a pleasant and intriguing species with dark glossy leaves, maroon tinged when young, and an attractive upright habit.

In good years, red berries will appear, also attached to the leaves. An excellent small to medium sized shrub, best in moist sheltered woodland. Hardy but better with shelter from too much sun and wind.

sold out

Helwingia himalaica

A slight variation on the above. 

Equally nice but with leaves a little bigger and if anything, the new foliage is even glossier.
Hardy but best in moist sheltered sites. Hates freezing winds.

Specimen size plants - £30 - collection only