Most Popular Evergreen Hedge

Having taken a little break in our posts to introduce the delights of Lonicera nitida ‘Baggesen’s Gold’ AGM, we can now conclude our countdown of evergreen hedges with the four most popular…

#4 Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Rotundifolia’)
The Cherry Laurel is an established garden staple and is often – and unfairly – taken for granted. Its familiar dark glossy green foliage remains unchanged throughout the seasons while its sweetly scented spring flowers and red/black summer/autumn berries bring additional delights. It is also unfussy, easy to grow, a doddle to maintain and a wildlife favourite.

#3 Griselinia Littoralis
Originating from New Zealand, Griselinia has glossy, apple green leaves, tiny yellow flowers in spring and, subject to pruning, purple fruit in autumn. It does everything and grows anywhere that Privet does though with a little extra grace and subtlety – but isn’t quite so tolerant of more exposed sites.

#2 Photinia Red Robin (Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’) AGM
The still growing popularity of Photinia Red Robin confirms that English gardeners are certainly not afraid of making a splash – its new growth is a strong and vibrant deep red which then slowly matures to a glossy dark green. And if you want your hedge to make a statement, with Photinia Red Robin you won’t have to compromise on functionality.

#1 Yew
Classic is as classic does – and there is something reassuring and gratifying to see that the stately Yew is, as it has been since we started, our most popular hedging plant. This, despite its unfounded reputation for being difficult to maintain. Certainly not the fastest grower, the patience required is really not that great and is rewarded ten-fold with every year that passes.