Susan has been growing Francoa, an alpine perennial native to Chile, South America and is studying their history and horticultural characteristics. She was awarded national plant collection status by Plant Heritage for Francoa in 2017. The plant collection is incorporated into the themed beds of Susan's garden.
The horticultural collection consists of plants from either divided plant material or seed from reputable nurseries. There are currently 130+ plants within three species, 16 cultivars and 16 taxa. Data is collected throughout the year to establish habits and trends relating to weather and growing conditions. All aspects of the plants are recorded in the Plant Heritage's online database (Persephone).
You may view the collection in person (by appointment only) by contacting Susan at francoa@summersgd.co.uk. Details of any open days will be announced in the National Collection of Francoa facebook page. Francoa flower from July onwards.
FRANCOA will be listed in RHS Plant Finder 2020
Plants grown from seed from the collection will be available via RHS Find a Plant also available in printed form RHS Plant finder.
Below are some of the cultivars in the collection. More pictures will be added and progress and detail shots loaded to facebook.
Hoover over picture to see the name.
