![]() They’re impressively adapted to cope with high salt concentrations in the air, which makes them a good candidate for coastal locations. They’re especially effective when made the centrepiece of a gravel garden or oversized border, growing up to 1m in height and slightly more in spread. The ‘Joker’ cultivar is prized for its impressive foliage, which carries a delightful mix of green and pink that creates an unusual aesthetic impact. With long, evergreen blades in a variety of shades, they’re ideal for brightening up dull landscapes in the winter months. Known as New Zealand flax, Phormium are hugely popular perennials for adding a splash of colour and a dollop of architectural excitement to any planting scheme. It’s a more space-efficient option than the Trachycarpus mentioned above, rarely exceeding head height, while its profusion of fanned green leaves (extending up to 50cm in length) are located lower down the trunk, meaning its spread often outpaces its height.Īlthough it can cope with strong winds more comfortably than the Trachycarpus, it’s not quite so adept at withstanding frozen terrain.Īs such, planting it in a pot which can be removed indoors during the winter months might be a good option if it’s available to you. Known as the European fan palm for that reason, Chamaerops humilis is a great option for creating an exotic focal point in your garden. ![]() Speaking of palm trees, no list of spiky plants that can handle UK temperatures would be complete without a mention of the only palm that’s native to Europe. In terms of appearance, they’re compact creatures which tightly fanned leaves of dark green, growing atop a hairy trunk that can exceed 5m in height.Īlthough they cope better in containers than some other Trachycarpus, they’re ultimately better suited to being planted in the earth. wagnerianus actually thrive in windy conditions, though a coastal one which is constantly buffeted by gales may be asking too much of them.Īside from demanding good drainage, however, they’re a largely unfussy species which will need attentive hydration immediately upon planting, but can tend to themselves thereafter. They were first brought to the UK in 1873 by Albert Wagner (hence their name) and have steadily grown in popularity since. fortunei, this oriental specimen has been favoured by Japanese horticulturalists for generations due to the neatness of its architectural form. 2) Trachycarpus wagnerianusĪ close relative of T. linearifolia (pictured above) are hardy up to -15☌, meaning they should survive the extremes of winter even in the most northern parts of the country.Īs long as they enjoy a sunny location with soil that drains freely, they’ll be happy enough. This makes them an excellent option for adding colour and intrigue to their surroundings.īest of all, Y. The leaves of the tree are long, sharp and extend in all directions away from the central sphere at the top of the trunk.ĭepending on the species, they can take on a grey or bluish tinge to their greenery, with yellow variegations possible as well. With some species capable of reaching 2m in height, it’s a perfect way to make a statement with stature in your garden. Hailing from Mexico, this striking plant takes the form of a spiky ball atop a chunky trunk, with the potential for more than a single trunk to develop in the right conditions. So if you’re considering adding an edge to your outdoor display, look no further than the nine suggested specimens below. However, on the whole, this collection of sharp-edged plants are hardy enough to handle anything the colder months throw at them. Potted varieties can be moved indoors or into a greenhouse during winter, while polytunnels are also an effective tool in keeping them safe from the more inclement elements. That’s not to say that you shouldn’t take precautions to protect them as best as possible. On the other hand, it may surprise you to learn that there are a handful of these spiky specimens that have adapted well to the Great British climate.Īlthough they may be natives of warmer regions and prefer the heat, they can cope well enough with a sharp fall in mercury, many of them surviving sub-zero temperatures with ease. ![]() Of course, many cacti, succulents, palms and their other prickly comrades only grow in hot and arid landscapes, so it’s only logical that they carry with them connotations of a tropical paradise. ![]() There’s something about a spiky plant that instantly suggests humid temperatures and exotic climes. Bring a touch of tropical charm to your garden with these spiky specimens.
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