Pachyphragma macrophylla

When you hear the word ‘groundcover’, it might bring to mind functional but uninspiring plants that blend into the background without adding much charm. Not so with this beautiful and underrated perennial for shade. Pachyphragma macrophylla not only delivers an early burst of beauty when most of the garden is still waking up, but often flowers beyond this into summer, offering a long season of flowering alongside carpets of handsome foliage.In March and April, flat clusters of small white flowers appear before the new leaves, often continuing into May and June for a long-lasting display. As the blooms fade, large, round scalloped green leaves up to 10cm across form in attractive rosettes, creating dense, weed-suppressing ground cover beneath trees and deciduous shrubs. In winter, the veins and stems take on a soft purple tint, and the foliage partially persists for year-round interest. Small green fruits, shaped like upside-down hearts, add an extra touch of character. Perfect beneath trees or deciduous shrubs, and stunning with other spring perennials and bulbs, this is ground cover that works hard while looking exceptional all year. Ultimate height: 40cm (16in). Ultimate spread: 60cm (24in)