Ranunculus ‘Bloomingdale’ is an indispensable plant, and a lovely option for late winter to early spring colour. Flowering in only five months from seed, this stunning variety produces large, densely petaled blooms that resemble small peonies.

Grown for the sweet ambrosial scent of its flowers they are used in flower arrangements, potpourri and perfumery. As a dye plant, Weld produces a yellow that all other yellows are judged by. Alongside Madder, Woad and Chamomile they produce the very best natural dyes for temperate areas.

Rhinanthus minor, Yellow Rattle is an attractive, partially parasitic, annual wildflower of grasslands. It can used to increase species diversity and reduce the competitive vigour of grasses benefiting other sown wildflowers. It produces a better display of flowers and eases the mowing required.

Ricinus communis is fast growing, tall and dramatic with huge leaves and interesting flower spikes that add drama to borders and beds. Impala grows to a reasonable garden height of around 90 to 120cm with gorgeous copper-red palmate leaves with vibrant red veins.

The wild rose bursts with lightly scented, usually flesh pink flowers (though they can be pinker or whitish) in summer. They are followed by a terrific show of bright red hips, they can be used to make jam, jelly, syrup, marmalade and wine. Delicious and an excellent natural source of vitamin C.

Prized for their beauty, fragrance, novelty and adaptability, miniature roses are the queen of flowers. This diminutive Chinese native grow to about 12 to 18 inches high in containers and baskets and blooms just 3 to 5 months from sowing. Although hardy, it can be grown as an annual when started early.

'“Giant Tetra Double” is a new compact Rudbeckia variety that produces masses of voluptuous, deep yellow, double flowers from early summer till frost. Plant en mass, prairie style for a blaze of sunny colour, or in small groups in borders and beds, they make an excellent cut flower.

Considered by many gardeners as the most complete border flower, the Rudbeckia produces the most spectacular blooms of the late summer border. ‘Marmalade’ grows to just 55cm and produces large spectacular, golden blooms that can reach 12cm across. Reliable, quick and very easy to grow.

A delightful dwarf Rudbeckia which flowers from late June to the end of summer, in shades of mahogany, amber and gold. Growing to only 60cm tall, they are an ideal choice for a small garden or the front of a narrow border, wonderful in containers and perfect for cutting.