Plants fit for a King

Green fingered Britons can take inspiration from King Charles III and include some of his favourite plants in their garden design.

Ahead of his coronation on the 6th May, the experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have looked at some of the plants featured in the King’s garden designs.

Charles III’s interest in gardening and sustainability is well documented with his spectacular gardens at Highgrove House, and his role in the designs at Clarence House and his homes in Scotland and Wales.

From his love of Delphiniums to his passion for wildflowers and the eco-message that runs throughout, there’s lots of inspiration for keen and novice gardeners.

Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress said: “The King has always been a keen gardener and has been involved in some stunning designs which encapsulate interest in sustainability.

“He has spent over 35 years transforming Highgrove with his team  – it now attracts more than 40,000 visitors every year and he is very hands-on. If you have visited or are planning to, you may well see numerous plants he has planted and pruned.

“His gardens are an inspiration to many and there are lots of planting ideas which can be taken and used in just about any garden.

“Creating an area for wildflowers is an obvious one – this can be a patch within your garden or even in planters. And look at bee loving plants to attract more insects into the space. Lavender and the King’s favourite, delphiniums are both good for this.”

Delphiniums

Delphiniums are said to be the King’s favourite plant and it’s not difficult to see why. These perennials will grow back year after year producing magnificent blooms on stately stems. They come in a huge variety of colours and are a cottage garden favourite. They’re hardy, easy to grow and the bees love their strong colours.

Alliums

Native species, including alliums form part of the wild meadow at Highgrove. These regal plants come in various heights and colours. They create a regal presence in the garden and continue to impress long after the blooms fade. These perennials are low maintenance and look good in any garden.

Wildflowers

Wildflowers are an important part of the garden schemes at Highgrove. The best way to encourage in your garden is to sow wildflower seeds. If you’re lucky enough to have a large space, you could create your own wildflower meadow. Otherwise try sowing in planters or within your garden scheme to create interest.

Apple Trees

The kitchen garden at Highgrove has sweet smelling apple trees trained over arches. Creating this is your own garden would be tricky so instead think about planting fruit trees in pots on your patio or within your garden. Just allow lots of space for branches heavy with delicious fruit. 

Roses

King Charles has been involved in designs at Clarence House as well as Highgrove. The formal parts of the garden are filled with roses in memory of his late grandmother, the Queen’s Mother. English roses create a stunning centre piece in any garden with their beautiful, fragrant blooms and stunning colours. They flower from early summer and work within a scheme or in planters.

Lavender

Lavender is another favourite at Clarence House. This is a classic British cottage garden favourite but is versatile enough to work in any style of garden. Great to line pathways, in containers, as a low hedge – it will work anywhere. Bees love this plant and the unmistakable perfume will leave your garden sweet smelling all summer.