AGS Loughborough Show 2024

Jon Evans reports on the spectacular display of plants exhibited at the AGS Loughborough Show at Barrow-upon Soar. ...(more below)
March 15, 2024
AGS Editor
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The Loughborough Show came at the end of a hectic week for us, with two lecture commitments and unexpected family issues, so when we made our way north on Friday, we were very familiar with the M1.

The New Venue

Again the show was in a new venue, which meant leaving the motorway at Leicester, and finding our way over a narrow humpback bridge to a school in Barrow-upon Soar.

The school had all the room we needed, the light in the show hall was reasonable, and there was just about enough room to do the show photography without blocking the fire exit.  As the day wore on, the clouds parted and the sun came out, giving shadows across my table, but fortunately this was only for brief intervals, and didn’t interfere with the photography.

Tulipa cretica

Whilst I was standing chatting to other exhibitors before the show, I saw Jim McGregor staging a huge pan of Tulipa cretica in full flower.  I was concerned that such a magnificent display would not last, and, with permission, removed it to photograph before judging started.  This pot later received the Royal Bank of Scotland Award for the best pan of bulbs.

Primula vulgaris, primroses in a garden pot with lush green foliage, perfect for alpine gardens.
White alpine flowers, primula, garden flowers, spring bloom, garden plant, alpine garden society, floral display, nature photography, garden enthusiasts, gardening tips and ideas, botanical image, plant species, floral arrangement, wildflower garden, seasonal flowers, outdoor gardening, plant care, plant collection, flower landscape, plant hobby, horticulture, flower garden design.
White flowering Primula with yellow centres and green foliage, part of the Alpine Garden Society's plant collection.

If I had been quicker, I would also have photographed Bob and Rannveig Wallis’ Tulipa regelii, which had four flowers open, unlike the one I captured the previous week at the Early Spring Show at Braintree.  By the time judging had finished, all but one had closed, and I had to be content with my previous picture.

But it was too late; the judges (and stewards) were under starter’s orders, and then in the blink of an eye they were off.

Bright spring bulbs in terracotta pots, including daffodils, snowdrops, and crocuses, at an Alpine Garden Society event showcasing early blooming plants for alpine and rock garden enthusiasts.
Bright yellow daffodils and white and purple flowering plants showcased at the Alpine Garden Society plant show with visitors admiring the displays.
Vibrant potted spring bulbs including daffodils and crocuses displayed at the Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing top-quality Alpine plants and flowers for enthusiasts and collectors.
Vibrant selection of potted alpine and garden plants displayed at the Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing diverse flowering species perfect for rock gardens and alpine habitats.
Loughborough Show view
Vibrant display of various blooming alpine plants at an Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing colourful and diverse flora perfect for rock gardens and alpine landscapes.
Brightly coloured potted alpine plants displayed at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing diverse hardy flowering plants suited for mountain gardens.
Alpine garden plants display at Alpine Garden Society event with flowering varieties in pots.
Vibrant display of potted alpine plants and flowers at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing diverse species and colours suited for rock gardens and alpine environments.
Vibrant flowering plants in terracotta pots displayed at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing a variety of hardy alpine plants for rock gardens and alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Large Three Pan classes

I have received positive feedback about photographing the winning three-pan exhibits in situ at the South Wales show, so here are the winning entries in the large three pan classes, except for the class for three shrubs, won by John Savage.  For some reason, I got confused by the signs on the benches, and thought there wasn’t such a class, though it is a usual staple.

So here are the winning entries for three large pans of:

  • rock plants exhibited by Bob and Rannveig Wallis
  • Primulaceae exhibited by Paul and Gill Ranson
  • Primula allionii exhibited by Geoff Rollinson
  • Papaveraceae or Ranunculaceae exhibited by Alan Newton
  • bulbous plants exhibited by Steve Clements
  • miniature or dwarf Narcissus exhibited by Bob and Rannveig Wallis
  • rock plants for foliage effect exhibited by Bob Worsley
  • cushion plants exhibited by Paul and Gill Ranson
Pink and yellow flowering chrysanthemums in terracotta pots, showcasing alpine garden flowers for display and cultivation.
Vibrant pink and purple primula flowers in terracotta pots displayed at an Alpine Garden Society event. Perfect example of alpine gardening and container plant displays.
Beautiful yellow flowering plants in terracotta pots, showcasing alpine garden species at gardening show, vibrant garden blooms, garden plants display for alpine and rock garden enthusiasts, garden exhibition image.
Cluster of vibrant flowering plants, including daffodils and other spring bulbs, displayed in terracotta pots at an Alpine Garden Society event showcasing garden and plant enthusiast displays.
White and purple Cymbidium orchids with yellow and green foliage in a garden display for Alpine Garden Society.
Yellow daffodils in a ceramic pot, showcasing vibrant spring blooms, displayed at an indoor Alpine Garden Society event for showcasing hardy alpine and bulb plants.
Rich diverse garden plants in terracotta pots at Alpine Garden Society plant show, featuring tropical foliage, flowering plants, and indoor gardening favourites for botanical enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Micro alpine plants in large terracotta pots for garden display.

Dionysia tapetodes ‘Kate’

On my way round the benches, I photographed John Dixon’s Dionysia ‘Kate’, and a miniature garden exhibited by Peter Hood.  I had no intention of carrying either of them unless absolutely necessary.

Dionysia tapetodes yellow flowering alpine plant in a terracotta pot at the Alpine Garden Society show.
Aussie-inspired alpine plants in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant blooms and textured foliage, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and succulent collectors.

Six small pans of Rock Plants

The AGS Medal for six small pans of rock plants went to Don Peace for this grouping.  This contained:

  • two Corydalis
  • Pleione ‘Heckla Locking Stumps’ which I photographed at Braintree
  • Iris winogradowii (likewise)
  • Primula allionii ‘Eveline Burrow’
  • Primula ‘Lepus’
Six small pans of rock plants exhibited by Don Peace
Primula flowers displaying vibrant purple, yellow, and variegated foliage at an Alpine Garden Society exhibition.

Primula allionii ‘Eveline Burrow’

A fine slow cultivar selected by Brian Burrow and exhibited by Don Peace.

Vivid purple primula flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine garden plant varieties. Perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and plant collectors interested in colourful, hardy garden plants.

Primula ‘Lepus’

Don’s Primula ‘Lepus’ received the Richard Regan Trophy for the best plant in a 19cm pot.

Vivid purple primula flowers in terracotta pot, perfect for alpine gardens and rockeries.
Violet Primula flowers in a terracotta pot, highlighting alpine garden plants for rock garden displays and flower borders.

Six small pans of Rock Plants grown from Seed

The Roger Smith Cup for six pans grown from seed went to Bob and Rannveig Wallis.  Their selection included:

  • Fritillaria ariana
  • Fritillaria gibbosa
  • Erythronium californicum
  • Corydalis macrocentra
  • Hyacinthella dalmatica
  • Narcissus bulbocodium (pale form)
Primula flowers in terracotta pots showcasing early spring bloom in an alpine garden.

Fritillaria ariana

I think all of these pans had been to at least one show previously, and the two Fritillaria had both reached full height and started to lean on each other.  Nevertheless, I took the opportunity to photograph them.

Pink and purple alpine flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing rare plants from the Alpine Garden Society collection. Perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and collectors.
Pink and purple alpine flowers with distinctive yellow markings, perfect for rock gardens and mountain planting. Ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and collectors.

Fritillaria gibbosa

Pink flowering alpine plant in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant blooms suitable for alpine gardens.

Small Three Pan classes

Following on from the large pan classes, here are the winning entries for three small pans of:

  • rock plants – the winning entry in the centre exhibited by Don Peace
  • Cyclamen exhibited by John Savage
  • Dionysia hybrids exhibited by Paul and Gill Ranson
  • Dionysia species – three entries, winner in the centre
  • Dionysia species exhibited by Paul and Gill Ranson
  • Orchidaceae exhibited by Steve Clements
  • bulbous plants exhibited by Bob and Rannveig Wallis
  • Narcissus – species or natural hybrids. Two of the four entries were NAS (not according to schedule) because they included garden hybrids.  But it did seem a little perverse that the large pan equivalent was for miniature or dwarf Narcissus, allowing garden hybrids, and the small pan class excluded them.
  • Narcissus – species or natural hybrids – the winning entry exhibited by Bob and Rannveig Wallis
  • Fritillaria exhibited by Bob and Rannveig Wallis
  • Iridaceae exhibited by Bob and Rannveig Wallis
  • rock plants from seed exhibited by Bob and Rannveig Wallis
  • rock plants with educational information exhibited by Paul and Gill Ranson

Success in all these bulbous three pan classes was crucial in winning the Charnwood Forest Trophy for the Open Section aggregate for Bob and Rannveig Wallis.

Vibrant alpine and garden plants in terracotta pots displayed at the Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing diverse varieties suitable for rock gardens and mountainous environments.
Vibrant potted cyclamen plants display bright pink flowers and lush green leaves, showcased at an Alpine Garden Society event, highlighting their beauty and importance in alpine and garden plant collections.
Vase of blooming daisies in terracotta pots, showcasing alpine garden flowers at a plant show.
Alpine Garden Society plant display featuring colourful potted alpine flowers and flowering plants at a gardening event.
Dionysia bryoides flowering plants in terracotta pots, showcased at the Alpine Garden Society exhibition, highlighting alpine plants' beauty and suitability for rock gardens and alpine collections.
Ophrys fusca and Ophrys centrefredinifera orchids in terracotta pots at a garden show, demonstrating alpine and native plant cultivation.
Bright white and yellow flowering plants in terracotta pots, showcasing alpine garden plants, at a garden society exhibition.
Bright yellow and white Narcissus Snow Baby flowers in terracotta pots at Alpine Garden Society display. Lush greenery surrounds these early spring bulbs, showcasing their vibrant colours and compact growth habit. Perfect for rock gardens and containers.
Bright yellow narcissus flowers blooming in terracotta pots at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing bulbs suitable for rock gardens and alpine planting enthusiasts.
Beautiful potted alpine flowers at an Alpine Garden Society exhibition, showcasing diverse and vibrant plants ideal for mountainous and rock garden environments.
Pink and blue Iris flowers in terracotta pots at an Alpine Garden Society exhibition, showcasing vibrant alpine plants and garden displays for plant enthusiasts and collectors.
Bright yellow fritillaria bulbs blooming in terracotta pots at an alpine garden show, showcasing vibrant flowering plants suitable for mountainous and rocky garden conditions.
Vibrant yellow, purple, and mixed flowering alpine plants in terracotta pots at an Alpine Garden Society exhibition.

Intermediate section three pan classes

In the Intermediate section the three-pan classes were shared between a number of exhibitors, but in the end it was Sue Bedwell’s success in winning two of them which narrowly brought her the Outwoods Trophy for the section aggregate.

So here are the classes for three pans of:

  • rock plants exhibited by Sue Bedwell
  • rock plants small exhibited by Sue Bedwell
  • bulbous plants exhibited by Ian Sutton
  • rock plants for foliage effect exhibited by Raymond Hurd
Bulbophyllum (Dendrobium) alba flowering orchid displayed at the Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing elegant white blooms and lush green foliage, perfect for plant collectors and orchid enthusiasts.
Vivid Cyclamen Persicum flowering plant with pink and white blossoms, lush green variegated leaves at an alpine garden show.
Bright yellow and white daffodils and narcissus in a terracotta pot, exhibition display for spring flowering plants at the Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing horticultural beauty.
Potentilla atrosanguinea in a nursery setting with other succulent and alpine plants, showcasing diverse plant options for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Novice section two pan class

In the Novice section, there was just one multi-pan class, for two pans of rock plants.  This went to Esio Visona, who entered well-grown plants of Primula renifolia and Saxifraga ‘Coolock Gem’.

Heptacodium yamatum and Japonica Unabara primroses in terracotta pots at Alpine Garden Society plant show, showcasing diverse flowering plants and alpine garden flora for enthusiasts.
Primula renifolia purple flowering plant in a terracotta pot, part of the Alpine Garden Society collection.
Primula auricula in a terracotta pot with gravel, popular in Alpine garden collections, showcasing vibrant purple flowers and lush green foliage.
White rockfoil (Arenaria peduncularis) in a terracotta pot, perfect for alpine gardens and rockery displays, thriving in well-drained soil and full sun, ideal for garden enthusiasts.

Hepatica yamatutai

However, the Beacon Trophy for the Novice section aggregate went to Christine Jarvis.  Her plants included the Hepatica I admired the previous week, now further out.

White and purple alpine flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing hardy plants suitable for alpine gardening. Perfect for enthusiasts and collectors of mountain plants.

Cyclamen libanoticum

Christine also exhibited a nice plant of Cyclamen libanoticum.

Cyclamen in a green pot, showcasing delicate pink and white flowers with variegated green leaves, perfect for alpine gardening and container plant displays.
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Cyclamen persicum

In the Intermediate section Sue Bedwell had a pretty white form of Cyclamen persicum.

White cyclamen flower potted plant, perfect for alpine gardens and shady garden areas.
White cyclamen flower with brown stems, cultivated for alpine gardens and specialist plant collections.

Primula x gothoburgensis

We have already seen P. renifolia in the Novice section.  In the Intermediate section, Alex O’Sullivan exhibited Primula x. gothoburgensis.

Primula malacoides in a terracotta pot, showcasing delicate purple flowers with yellow centres, perfect for alpine gardening and plant enthusiasts.
Primula vulgaris, common primrose flowering plant in a terracotta pot against dark background, showcasing delicate purple blooms and green foliage.

Primula ‘Lindum Wedgewood’

Heather Barraclough exhibited a good plant of this Primula hybrid.

Purple primula flowers in a terracotta pot, part of Alpine Garden Society's collection, showcasing hardy plants suitable for alpine gardens and containers. Perfect for enthusiasts and garden designers.

Tulipa iliensis

However, the stand-out plant in the Intermediate section was this pan of Tulipa iliensis from Michael Wilson, which was awarded a Certificate of Merit.

Yellow flowering alpine plants, likely belonging to the genus Tulipa, showcased at the Alpine Garden Society event, ideal for rock gardens and alpine plant enthusiasts.
Yellow flowering Lemon Lily in a terracotta pot, suitable for alpine gardens and rock gardens. Bright, vibrant blooms ideal for alpine plant collections and garden displays.
Bright yellow alpine flower blooming with green foliage, perfect for rock gardens or alpine collections.
Yellow alpine lily flower in bloom, vibrant yellow petals, green foliage in background, close-up alpine flower, perfect for gardening and plant enthusiasts, alpine garden society plant image.

Tulipa humilis ‘Tete a Tete’

In the Open section, Anne Vale exhibited a double form of T. humilis.

Bright red tulips blooming in a wooden planter filled with gravel, showcasing early spring garden display, perfect for alpine gardening and flower cultivation enthusiasts.

Tulipa kurdica

This tulip from Bob and Rannveig Wallis was a little more subtle, but the flowers didn’t open all day.

Red tulip bulbs in a terracotta pot with green foliage, spring flowering bulbs, gardening, alpine plants, garden hobbyist, flower gardening, seasonal planting, alpine garden society, horticulture, outdoor garden ideas.

Crocus aerius

No such problems for Bob and Rannveig’s Crocus aerius; this was one of the first plants I photographed when judging had finished.

Alpine crocus flowers blooming in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant purple and yellow colours, suitable for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock gardening.
Violet crocus flowers in full bloom, showcasing delicate petals and vibrant orange stamens, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Violet crocus flowers blooming in a pot, showcasing early spring bloom in alpine gardens and perfect for rock gardens.

Iris attica

By special request, here are the subtle but striking colours of Steve Clements’ Iris attica.

Purple iris flowers blooming in a terracotta pot with gravel soil, showcasing alpine gardening and floral cultivation.
Vivid purple iris flower blooming in a terracotta pot with green leaves and pebbles, showcasing alpine garden beauty and vibrant plant diversity for garden enthusiasts.
Purple Iris flower in a terracotta pot, part of a collection from the Alpine Garden Society, highlighting alpine gardening and flower cultivation.

Gladiolus caeruleus

David Carver exhibited a pot of Gladiolus caeruleus.  This appealed hugely to me, with my interest in South African bulbs.  The whole pot was not very conducive to a portrait, but fortunately I was able to get some close-ups of individual flowers I was happy with.

Liriope muscari variegata flowering plant in a pot, showcasing purple flowers and long green leaves, ideal for alpine gardens and rockeries.
Violet blue alpine gerrymander flowers with tall thin leaves, suitable for alpine garden enthusiasts and rockery plant collections.
Gladiolus caeruleus exhibited by David Carver

Sparaxis metelerkampiae

Another special request; Sparaxis metelerkampiae exhibited by Peter Farkasch.

Purple-blue alpine flower in a terracotta pot, botanical garden, wildflower, blooming plant, garden hobby, mountain flora, cultivated plant, natural garden, botanical garden, plant care, garden display, raised garden bed, wildflower collection, flower enthusiast, floral decoration, outdoor garden, flowering plant, nature photography, garden centre, plant diversity.
Violet alpine flower blooming on a slender green stem, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden enthusiasts looking for hardy outdoor plants.
Alpine wildflower blossom with vibrant purple and white petals, showcasing a detailed close-up of mountain flora at the Alpine Garden Society.

Narcissus bulbocodium conspicuus

In the small pan class for a Narcissus species or natural hybrid, Jim McGregor staged a pan of Narcissus bulbocodium conspicuus packed with flowers.

Bright yellow daffodils blooming in a terracotta pot with green grass-like foliage, showcasing early spring garden flowers at an Alpine Garden Society event.
Yellow daffodil flowers blooming among green grass, part of alpine garden plants for landscaping and gardening enthusiasts.

Narcissus cuatrecasasii

However, the winner in this class was the tiny Narcissus cuatrecasasii, exhibited by Vic and Jan Aspland.

Yellow daffodils in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine gardening beauty and vibrant spring blooms for outdoor gardening enthusiasts.
Yellow alpine daffodils growing among green grass, perfect for rock gardens or alpine plant collections.
Bright yellow daffodil flowers in bloom, part of the alpine plant collection at Alpine Garden Society, showcasing hardy spring bulbs for rock gardens and alpine environments.

Fritillaria affinis

Bob and Rannveig Wallis staged this Fritillaria, very quiet and unassuming, but beautiful in close-up.

Spring-flowering alpine plant with slender green stalk and drooping dark flowers, suitable for rock gardens and alpine collections, part of the Alpine Garden Society collections.
Fallen wildflower orchids with withered petals and a slender green stem.

Fritillaria carica

Don Peace received a Certificate of Merit for his pan of Fritillaria carica.

Vibrant yellow colchicum flowers in a terracotta pot with rocky soil, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Yellow alpine daffodil in a terracotta pot, perfect for rock gardens and alpine plant collections.

Fritillaria ‘Lentune Fox’

Don’s own hybrid, Fritillaria ‘Lentune Fox’ always attracts attention with its deep golden trumpets.

Alpine Garden Society, yellow and brown fritillary flowers in a terracotta pot with green foliage, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Yellow and brown Fritillaria imperialis flowers with lush green foliage, showcasing a beautiful display of alpine garden plants suitable for rock gardens and alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Gagea peduncularis

This little Gagea from Bob and Rannveig Wallis was something I meant to photograph all day, and only just got to, during prize-giving at the end of the day, when the flowers were beginning to close.

Yellow alpine flowers in a terracotta pot with green grass-like foliage and a dark background.

Scilla x allenii ‘Fra Angelico’

In the large pan classes, Don Peace had a fine pan of Scilla x allenii ‘Fra Angelico’.  I didn’t get time to carry it for a serious portrait, so we will have to make do with a shot on the bench.

Violet blue flowers in a black garden pot, showcasing hardy alpine plants, perfect for garden enthusiasts and alpine garden society members.

Crocus vernus

Vic and Jan Aspland received a Certificate of Merit for this pan of Crocus vernus.  At judging, it had only a few open flowers.  As the day went on, a steady trickly of further flowers opened, but even at the end of the day there were plenty of buds to come.

White crocus flowers in a terracotta pot, early spring bloom, alpine gardening, delicate white blossoms in garden setting, Alpine Garden Society plant display, outdoor container gardening for crocuses, seasonal garden flowers, natural stone mulch, horticulture, community gardening, flower enthusiast, spring flower showcase.
White crocus flowers in a terracotta pot for alpine gardening.
Alpine crocuses blooming in a garden bed, showcasing white petals and vibrant orange stamens, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden enthusiasts.

Corydalis solida ‘Beth Evans’

Edward Barraclough exhibited a fine pan of this Corydalis, though there were a few doubts about whether it was the genuine article.

Pink alpine geranium flowers with green foliage in a pot, vibrant pink blooms, perfect for alpine gardens and container planting, showcasing hardy, low-maintenance plants for rock gardens and garden borders.

Corydalis solida ‘Lentune Gemini’

This curious mutant form of Corydalis solida was raised by Don Peace.  Instead of the usual asymmetrical flowers, we have symmetrical ones with two spurs, somewhat reminiscent of the related genus Dicentra.

Pink alpine geranium plant in a terracotta pot, highlighted by lush green foliage and delicate pink flowers against a neutral background. Perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Pink flowering primula plant for Alpine Garden Society, showcasing vibrant blooms and lush green foliage, ideal for garden enthusiasts interested in alpine plants and flowering perennials.

Ranunculus crithmifolius

Don Peace received a Certificate of Merit for his Ranunculus, which had developed a bit further since I photographed it at Braintree.

Silene acaulis plant with yellow flowers in a terracotta pot, moss rose species grown in rocky soil, alpine gardening plants, sempervivum collection, hardy mountain plants for rock gardens.
Vivid yellow flowers of a potentilla plant with textured, silvery-grey leaves, thriving in rocky garden soil, showcasing native alpine plant beauty and resilience for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Ophrys tenthredinifera var. villosa

The pan of Ophrys which won a Certificate of Merit at Braintree for Steve Clements was still in fine condition and attracted the show reporter’s attention.

Orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing the exotic and vibrant beauty of alpine orchids perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and collectors.
Wild orchid flower in bloom, showcasing unique botany and floral beauty for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing rare alpine garden orchids for botanical enthusiasts. Perfect for alpine plant collectors and orchid lovers.

Pleione ‘Glacier Peak’ x humilis

After carrying a lot of heavy pots, this one was like a helium balloon, and shot into the air when I picked it up.  This is John Dixon’s hybrid, which seems close to Pleione humilis, but is apparently rather easier to grow.

White orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine and rare plant species for garden enthusiasts.
Delicate white orchid flower with intricate fringed lip and red markings, part of the Alpine Garden Society's collection showcasing rare alpine plants for cultivation and study.

Pleione ‘Riah Shan’

Steve Clements has brought this pan to a string of shows, and come second, so it was good to see him finally collect a red sticker.

Vibrant purple orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing the variety of alpine plants cultivated by the Alpine Garden Society, ideal for rock gardens and alpine plant enthusiasts.
Vibrant purple and white orchids blooming in a garden pot, showcasing Alpine garden plants perfect for rockeries and containers, enhancing outdoor floral displays.

Hepatica japonica ‘Gyousei’

This Hepatica japonica cultivar from Chris Lilley is always a fabulous colour.

Vivid purple and green flowering plant in terracotta pot, showcasing alpine garden plants, suitable for rockeries and container gardening.
Bright pink alpine flowers blooming among glossy green and brown foliage, representing the beauty of alpine plants cultivated by the Alpine Garden Society. Perfect for enthusiasts of mountain flora and horticulture.

Hepatica yamatutai

Bob Worsley’s Hepatica yamatutai had a lot more flowers than the one I photographed from the Novice section, but not the appealing purple backs to the petals.

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Bergenia ciliata ‘Patricia Furness’

This fabulous Bergenia cultivar was named by Alan Furness for his wife Patricia, and is slowly becoming available to grow.  Chris Lilley’s pan of it surprised me when I picked it up.  It appeared to have been swimming before its arrival at the show, and dripped water as I carried it across the hall to take its picture.  Perhaps an accident when crossing the humpback bridge over the River Soar on the way to the show ?

Alpine garden society potted plant featuring pink and white flowering primulas for rock gardens and alpine plant enthusiasts.
Vibrant pink and white Alpine flowers blooming in a garden, showcasing the beauty and diversity of alpine plants, ideal for enthusiasts and experts in alpine gardening.

Helleborus purpurascens

Diane Clement exhibited a small plant of Helleborus purpurascens.

Hellebore flowers in a pot, showcasing alpine gardening and cultivation of hardy plants suitable for alpine and rock garden landscapes.
Hellebore plant in a pot showcasing early spring flowering in a garden, suitable for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden design.

Soldanella montana

I photographed Brenda Nickels’ Soldanella right at the end of the show when I was running out of time, and didn’t take close-ups, which would probably have been more striking.

Flowering alpine primula with purple blossoms in a terracotta pot for alpine gardening and garden enthusiasts.

Primula palinuri

It is a while since I have seen Primula palinuri from south-western Italy on the bench.  This plant was exhibited by Chris Bowyer.

Primula auricula with yellow flowers and green foliage in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine gardening plants.
Bright yellow primula flower with lush green foliage, showcasing the beauty of alpine gardening at the Alpine Garden Society. Perfect for plant enthusiasts and gardeners interested in alpine plant collections.

Flower arrangement

However busy I am, I always try to photograph the flower arrangements.  This one was from Anne Vale.

Allium paradoxum var. normale, Cardamine quinquefolia, Chlorodendron forteisii, Corydalis malkensis, Corydalis solida (mixed), Cysmene, Daphne x transatlantica 'Eternal Fragrance', Galanthus 'Trympostor' flowers in vibrant spring display at Alpine Garden Society exhibit.
Colourful alpine wildflower arrangement with daffodils, snowdrops, and other native plants, highlighting the beauty of alpine garden flowers for enthusiasts and collectors.
Bright spring floral arrangement with daffodils, lilies, bluebells, and other colourful blooms in a dark vase for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Cacti

The show reporter wanted me to photograph some of the ‘snowball’ cacti on the bench.  I took Mammillaria hahniana last week, so here are:

  • Mammillaria gracilis ‘Arizona Snowcap’ exhibited by Colin Sykes
  • Mammillaria plumosa exhibited by Chris Bowyer
  • Rebutia muscula exhibited by David Charlton
Clustering of small white-spined cacti in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine succulent plants for alpine gardening and cactus growing enthusiasts.
White cacti, alpine succulent plants in a terracotta pot on rocky soil, showcasing hardy alpine flora for rock gardens and succulent enthusiasts.
Aloe verapicta cactus with dense white spines in a terracotta pot, suitable for alpine garden enthusiasts, showcasing succulent plant cultivation and desert horticulture.

Haastia pulvinaris subsp minor

Geoff Rollinson exhibited a fine plant of the difficult New Zealand cushion, Haastia pulvinaris subsp minor.  The photos make it look much bigger than it actually was.

Curled, velvety succulent plant growing among dark gravel in a terracotta pot, ideal for alpine gardening and rockery displays.
Clustering succulent plants in a terracotta pot, surrounded by dark rocks, showcasing the unique foliage of alpine and rock garden plants, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts.

Anisotome imbricata subsp imbricata

Geoff Rollinson also exhibited a big cushion of Anisotome imbricata subsp imbricata.  In the past, several of the leading exhibitors used to grow and exhibit this, but I suspect this may now be the last plant in the UK.

Dense green alpine moss growing in a terracotta pot, ideal for alpine gardens and rockery displays. Perfect for enthusiasts and garden designers focusing on native and hardy plants.
Lush green alpine plants with delicate foliage, suitable for mountain gardens and rockeries for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts.

Primula allionii ‘Chivalry’

Geoff Rollinson’s huge and beautiful plant of Primula allionii ‘Chivalry’ won him the Webster Trophy for the best plant native to Europe.  The judges must have decided it is a selection of the species, and not a hybrid.

Vivid purple primulas in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine garden plants. Perfect for rock gardens and container planting, these hardy flowers thrive in alpine conditions, adding colour to your outdoor space.
Violet primula flowers in a garden bed, showcasing vibrant colour and lush foliage. Perfect for alpine and rock gardens, these primulas thrive in cool, well-drained soil, adding colour and charm to garden landscapes.
Vivid purple primula flowers in full bloom, showcasing the beauty of alpine plants suitable for rock gardens and alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Dionysia esfandiarii SLIZE259/CL3

Mark Childerhouse exhibited a small dome of this uncommon Dionysia.  I have never seen it cover itself in flower; John Dixon’s much larger cushion used to appear solely in the cushion classes, without flowers on.

Alpine flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant purple and yellow blooms with low-growing succulent foliage, ideal for alpine gardening and rock garden landscapes.

Dionysia revoluta subsp revoluta

Another unusual shrubby Dionysia from Mark Childerhouse.  Mark is the only person I have seen exhibit this in recent years.

Yellow alpine primula flowers in a terracotta pot for alpine gardening and rockery displays, showcasing vibrant spring blooms and hardy mountain plants for garden enthusiasts.

Dionysia ‘Norlynn Heather’

This hybrid, exhibited by Paul and Gill Ranson, has striking purple flowers.

Purple primula flowers in a terracotta pot, perfect for alpine and garden displays, thriving in rocky soil, suitable for alpine gardens and containers, showcasing vibrant seasonal blooms.

Dionysia hybrid PMR-MK1140/6

This one is an f1 hybrid ex D. viscidula, again exhibited by Paul and Gill Ranson.  Paul says this is the only plant in existence.  Although this is quite an old plant, he has never managed to strike a cutting of it.

Purple primula in a terracotta pot, vibrant flowering plant with small white-centred blooms, ideal for alpine gardens and rockeries, showcasing the beauty of hardy garden plants.
Violet Primula flowers in full bloom, perfect for alpine gardening and rockery displays for plant enthusiasts.

Saxifraga ‘Coolock Kate’

The best, in fact the only, large pan of Saxifraga was this one from Mark Childerhouse.

Pink Primula in a terracotta pot, perfect for alpine gardens and container gardening, showcasing vibrant spring blooms. Ideal for alpine plant enthusiasts and garden decor.

Kelseya uniflora

And finally, for the second week in a row, the Farrer medal for the best plant in the show went to Peter Hood, this time for an ancient and extremely heavy plant of Kelseya uniflora, which also won the American Trophy for the best plant native to the Americas.  Some muttered that whilst it was clearly an achievement to grow it to this age and size, it wasn’t particularly well flowered.  But there were more buds coming all over it, and I was just glad to see and photograph it.  This is a celebrated alpine, notoriously difficult to cultivate, which I have never seen in the flesh, or photographed before.

My thanks to Don Peace for the last image, of Peter with his plant.

Tiny green succulent with pink flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing Alpine Garden Society's collection of alpine plants and succulents.
Alpine succulent plant in a terracotta pot, surrounded by rocks, showcasing hardy alpine gardening and rock garden plants.
Succulent alpine plant in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine gardening and rock gardening techniques.
Drought-tolerant succulent ground cover with small green leaves and pink flowers, ideal for alpine gardens and rock gardens.
Vivid pink and white alpine flowers blooming amidst dense green foliage, showcasing the beauty of alpine plants and rock garden gardening suitable for alpine gardens and plant enthusiasts.

Sadly, there was no time for personal choices – the hall was busy with visitors, and the show reporter’s list kept me occupied all afternoon.  In the end I didn’t photograph plants on the list which I had captured the previous week, or a couple which I have photographed many times in previous years.

But I’m sorry I missed Bob and Rannveig Wallis’ little Fritillara gibbosa (yellow form), Steve Clements’ Ophrys species, and several other things; they will have to wait for another year.

This was an excellent show in an excellent new venue.  As always, there were a few teething problems, but there were lots of people there which bodes well for the future.  Thanks to the school, the show secretaries Martin and Neil, and all their helpers, in particular the ladies on the refreshment table who still had filled baps when I realised quite late on that I hadn’t eaten anything.  Thanks also to the nurseries, the judges, and to all the exhibitors for bringing their plants.

Read previous entries at The Photographers Diary

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