The Fleming's and Trailfinders Australian Garden

By Mark Browning. This garden is a relaxed, worldly space that would suit any contemporary city. The colours and textures have been selected to evoke emotions of mystery, romance and tranquillity.

Trees are the major feature within this garden, from the striking copse of Betula utilis var. jacquemontii, with its white bark and blue-green leaves, to the dramatic Fagus sylvatica 'Dawyck Purple' and rear hedge of the same plant. Purple foliage is prominent with Fagus, Sambucus, Ophiopogon, Loropetalum, Cotinus and Heuchera. The dark plants provide contrast to the blue and grey tones that dominate the hard landscapes.

Foliage characteristics override floral interest in this garden, with an emphasis on flamboyant tones and textures. The pond includes plants such as Cyperus and indigenous Australian rush species. Dracaena draco is used in the garden at key focal points. They are used as architectural statements and also as treasures of the past.

Plant list (click on any of the green links for more information):

Anigozanthus species
Astelia chathamica
Balaskion pallens
Betula utilis var. jaquemontii
Carex comans 'Bronze'
Clivea miniata
Convolvulous cneorum
Convolvulus sabatius
Cordyline 'Red Star'
Cotinus coggygria 'Royal Purple'
Cycas revoluta
Cyperus papyrus
Dichondra argentea 'Silver Falls'
Dracaena draco
Euphorbia amygdaloides 'Purpurea'
Fagus sylvatica 'Dawyck Purple'
Fagus sylvatica 'Purpurea Pendula'
Festuca glauca
Heuchera 'Crème Brulee'
Heuchera 'Licorice'
Libertia formosa
Loropetalum chinensis var. rubrum 'Plum Delight'
Ophiopogon japonicus 'Nana'
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'
Pennestum setaceum 'Rubrum'
Phormium 'All Black'
Phormium 'Platt's Black'
Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo'
Prunus lusitanica
Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace'
Sesleria caerulea
Stipa tenuissima
Thymus species
Tiarella 'Spring Synphony'
Viburnum davidii