The Finer Details

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This blog will feature insights into my design process, my interests and inspirations and my ambitions to help people appreciate nature for its perfection, beauty and diversity through landscape design. 

Human beings have an innate instinct to be close to nature, though it seems that a lot of our natural desires have been hijacked by our material minds and the technological evolution. We often chose to look at the world through a screen rather than paying attention to the earthly wonders that surrounds us. 

The UK has an abundance of plant species, whether native or naturalised, that will effortlessly enchant those that take a moment to appreciate them: 

DON'T SPEAK THEIR NAMES IN VAIN!!!

Viburnum rhytidophyllum 
Leatherleaf viburnum 

Look at that detail!! The deeply-veined evergreen leaves of Viburnum are striking. Some may find this plant unexciting but if you appreciate it for its intricate venation, it is undoubtedly beautiful. 

Also... accurately named, I would LOVE a bag made from these spectacular leather like leaves. 





Continus coggygrea 'Old Fashioned' Smoketree 

This plant is commonly used in English gardens, its multi-hued leaves change colour as the year progresses and just WOW. 

For me, this plant is very much in fashion. Its naturally juxtaposing colours and splendent veins will complement a contemporary design.
 


Rumex sanguineus 
Red-veined Sorrel 

These little beauties deserve more attention than they need to survive. Being one of the first to show bright green leaves in spring time and gorgeous red stems and veins. 

A delicious multi-vitamin (vitamin C, vitamin A and some vitamin B) ground cover plant.



Alocasia micholitziana 
Green-velvet alocasia 

Admittedly, this isn't one of our native plants nor is it hardy in the UK. But when talking about outstanding natural beauty and striking veins, it had to be mentioned. 

This plant amazes me every time, its dramatic leaf shape, its stunning venation and elegant upright stature. 

If you're brave enough to have it as a pet, you will love it endlessly. 



A worthy appreciation post of some of the plants that impressed me this summer, for their finer details. Calling all humans to take a closer look and be delighted by charm of our green neighbours.

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