Aromatic Plants for Patio Cultivation: Suitable for Scented Pots, All Year Long
In the world of horticulture, there's a diverse array of plants that can captivate the senses and transform any garden into a haven of beauty and fragrance. Let's delve into four such plants that are sure to delight any gardener.
Firstly, Water Mint (Mentha aquatica), a fragrant herb suitable for container gardening, is easy to grow and boasts rounded lilac flowers that bloom from July to October. With its refreshing, uplifting aroma, it's an ideal choice for those seeking a plant that thrives in a small water garden or a regular container that doesn't dry out.
Next, the Witch Hazel Jelena (Hamamelis x intermedia) is a deciduous shrub that blooms in the winter, offering a unique spectacle. It can grow up to 8-12 ft tall, but when planted in containers, it tends to reach smaller mature heights. The shrub's foliage transitions from green to an orange hue in the fall before it drops, and in the winter, it emerges showy, copper-colored blooms with a strong, sweet scent.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a heat-tolerant perennial with silver-gray foliage and lilac-hued flowers, known for its strong fragrance. It reaches a mature height and spread of around 3 ft. and is best pruned back after the foliage dies back to about 4-6 inches above the soil line. A standout feature is its price of $68.95 for a 1 Gallon size.
Lastly, Camellia × vernalis 'Yuletide' is an evergreen shrub with big red flowers that bloom in the winter and early spring. It reaches a mature height of around 8-10 ft but tends to stay more compact when planted in containers. Priced at $23.97 for a 2.5 Gallon size, this plant prefers organically rich, neutral to acidic soil and needs to be kept consistently moist, especially as it is getting established.
In addition to these four plants, Honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum) provides vertical interest, attracts pollinators, and scents the evening air. It can grow up to 8-10 feet tall and as wide as 20-30 feet, with creamy lemon-yellow flowers that deepen in color as they age.
Matthiola incana 'Pillow Talk', a perennial Stock with attractive, silver-green foliage and white flowers that darken to a pale pink with age, is another easy-to-grow plant that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It emits a clove-like scent, adding an extra layer of fragrance to your garden.
English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia 'Rosea') is a Mediterranean native that needs excellent drainage and full sun. Favoured for its stress-busting and sleep-inducing properties, it offers a profusion of purple or pink flowers.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these plants offer a variety of options to create a fragrant and beautiful outdoor space. Happy gardening!
