Hypericum

Native to the Himalayas and China, the plant has been cultivated in the UK since 1594 originally for its medicinal properties but now also grown commercially for its ornamental berries. Available all year round Berries in shades of red, orange, brown yellow and cream as well as golden flowers like giant buttercups. Hypericum has increased hugely in popularity over the past five years. Then there was only one but now there are at least six or seven named varieties available, all with different characteristics.

Cymbidium Orchid

Sprays of 8 -10 large broad-petalled flowers on long stems. The ancestors of these exotic orchids came from Asia (Burma, India and the Himalayas) and Australia.. Available all year round in Green, white, 'make-up' shades and pink They can last several weeks. They like cool air and regular misting, and are sensitive to ethylene gas so keep them away from fruit, vegetables and dying flowers.

Anthurium

Their unmistakable glossy heart-shaped flower bract (which gives them their popular name of painter's palette) surrounds the true flowers, which are in the form of a spike (or spathe) at the centre. Available all year round in shades of reds, pinks, white, lilac, green and chocolate brown. They last three weeks or more. The flowers should not be chilled. The bracts are fleshy and very easily bruised - take care when transporting or arranging these fabulous flowers.

Bells Of Ireland (Moluccella)

Tall, pale green spike (60-100 cm) with its bell shaped calyxes enclosing the tiny real white fragrant flowers inside them.Thought to have come from the Moluccas (Spice Islands) in Indonesia but is actually from Syria and Eastern Mediterranean. Available all year round. From the mint family (Labiatae), it was considered an aromatic herb, first cultivated in Belgium in 1570. It is used also in perfume making and is phototropic (bends towards the light).

Bird Of Paradise (Strelitzia)

A green 'beak' with a bright orange and blue crest, silvery-green leaves. Available all year round. Limited availability in summer. Purchase Strelitzia when the first flower bud is fully open. They ooze sap which can make the flower quite sticky; this sap can be wiped away carefully. Pull away wilted crests and new ones will pop up from inside the 'beak'.

Tulips

The tulip is among the world’s most popular flowers. Native to Turkey, these bulbs have been cultivated for thousands of years. The flowers reached their height of popularity in Holland in the 1630s, when enthusiasm for new varieties triggered a speculative frenzy known as tulipomania. Although they aren’t considered a form of currency today, they remain irresistible to many gardeners. These favorite plants also make excellent cut flowers