If you're somebody who finds that everything they touch in the garden withers away, don't worry, there are some plants that are so tough that even the most amateur of gardeners will find it impossible to kill them!
Spotted Laurel (Aucuba japonica 'Crotonifolia')
This is a really adaptable shrub that will grow in any type of soil in the sun or shade.
Barberry (Berberis thunbergii f. atropurpurea)
This handsome shrub has rich purple foliage, and its spiky stems make it the perfect hedge for burglar-proofing, in a sunny or partially shaded spot.
Brachyglottis 'Sunshine'
You're sure to be cheered by the bright yellow flowers, which are perfect for a sunny site.
Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)
This is great for difficult sites since it will thrive almost anywhere. It's a gorgeous and satisfying plant to grow as when it blooms in summer, butterflies cover it.
Clematis
You can choose from hundreds of beautiful varieties of this beautiful climber, which will cover your walls and fences with colour throughout the year.
Crocosmia 'Lucifer'
For a sizzling summer border it's hard to beat the beautiful scarlet flowers of Crocosmia 'Lucifer'.
Dead Nettle (Lamium maculatum 'White Nancy)
Dry shade can be one of the most difficult areas in the garden, but dead nettle will thrive all year round, and cover the ground with silvery variegated foliage.
Honeysuckle (Ionicera periclymenum)
This vigorous climber is perfect for covering walls and fences and provides a sweet scent for summer gardens.
Pyracantha
Small gardens in particular need plants that earn their space. Pyracantha is one of the best, producing white flowers in spring and orange or yellow berries that cover the whole bush from autumn to winter.
Rosa Rugosa
This tough rose will thrive in some of the most difficult of sites. It offers all the scent and beauty of some of the more delicate varieties.
Ice Plant (Sedum spectabile)
The ice plant blooms year after year in a sunny spot and produces its heads of star-shaped flowers in late summer, when it will be buzzing with bees and butterflies.
About the Author / Gareth Hargreaves
Gareth looks after all editorial content on 50connect. He is the Swiss Army knife of content ideas and production.
