Compact, slow-growing deciduous trees, ideal for smaller gardens Attractive foliage in shades of green, yellow or burgundy, and good autumn colour. Plant from October to March. Best in a cool, lightly shaded spot, away from strong wind and ideal in a larger container. Usually needs little pruning or training. Mulch and fertilise in spring, as Acers prefer acid soil use Ericaceous compost and feed.

Box is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, provided there is adequate drainage and it does not dry out completely. A reliably moist soil is especially important if growing in full sun, otherwise the foliage may scorch. Box will tolerate deep shade and is ideal for planting beneath taller trees.Box should be planted in autumn or spring.

For hedging, prepare a planting area by thoroughly cultivating the soil to a spade's depth and up to 90cm (3ft) wide.For individual specimens dig a planting hole to a spade's depth and a diameter of three times the width of the rootball.On poorer soils spread organic matter, such as well-rotted manure or garden compost, over the prepared area and fork in. Do not place organic matter in the bottom of a planting trench or hole.

Azaleas are part of the Rhododendron family. Azalea japonica Red is a fantastic low maintenance, dwarf evergreen shrub. This popular plant will produce masses of striking, scarlet red blooms that smother the stems from April to May. The beautiful, red blooms will make a real impact in any size garden adding contrast and shape. They make excellent low cover for lightly shaded borders or woodland settings or can be grown in pots on the patio. Height 75-100cm. Shallow plant in fertile, well drained and light/acidic soil. Flowers abundantly May/June

Heuchera Black Beauty is an unusual variety that produces deep red-purple ruffled leaves that are almost indistinguishable from black. The mass of foliage will add something special to any garden display whether planted in a low border, rockery or patio container. Flowers May to September.  Plant in well dug prepared soil. Requires protection from excessive winter conditions.

Must be watered regularly and keep in areas with plenty of sun. Dead head as and when necessary, after flowers are fully established.

Mature Height: 30cm Mature Spread: 20cm

A shrub with stunning obovate variegated shiny foliage. The colour transforms form cream pink tones during summer to and explosion of fire red foliage during autumn and winter.This plant has a low water requirement once established. It prefers a well drained soil in the full sun or part shade. Prune to promote bushiness and fertilise annually with a long term slow release fertiliser. Ideal for small hedges and general garden landscaping.Max Height: 150 cm. Position: Full sun to part shade

A compact male shrub with red-margined, deep green leaves. Dark red flower buds are produced in autumn and these last all through the winter until the flowers open in spring. A great shrub for growing in a pot or for filling in gaps in the garden border. Lightly trim after flowering, if necessary. To improve the moisture retention qualities of the soil add plenty of well-rotted compost when planting.

Position: partial to full shade

Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained acid soil or ericaceous compost Flowering period: April to May

Hardiness: fully hardy

Max height 1.5m

Spread: 1.5m

There are a number of different hydrangea types but they all enjoy similar growing conditions. They vary in size from small shrubs to sizeable, almost tree-like specimens so check the plant label when buying to get one that is suitable for your space. Which hydrangea you choose will likely depend on your preferences for flower colour and/or shape. Mophead and lacecap cultivars of Hydrangea macrophylla (and also Hydrangea involucrata and Hydrangea serrata) change colour depending on the acidity or alkalinity of the soil (pH) that affects aluminium availability.  Those with blue or pink flowers tend to be blue in acid soils (high available aluminium levels), mauve in lightly acid to neutral soil conditions, and pink in alkaline conditions. White, red and green-flowered cultivars, remain white or green regardless of soil pH.