AGS North Midland Show 2024

Jon Evans makes his first ever trip to the North Midland Show at Chesterfield, and encounters a hall full of Fritillaria, Pleione, dward shrubs and Androsace. ...(more below)
April 12, 2024
AGS Editor
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I have never been to the long-standing show at Chesterfield.  For years, I considered it just that bit too far to drive in a day.  So I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit the show this year.

My wife Helen wanted to spend some time with her mother in Nottingham, so we drove up on Friday to visit.  On Saturday morning I went up to the show, and picked her up again on my way back south.

Arrival at the show

I arrived at the show in breezy sunshine.  That breeze would pick up during the day, until things were blowing around outside and Jackie Potterton (who had a plant stall outside the entrance) was forced to pack up.

Inside, the show benches were full of colour.

Vibrant collection of potted alpine plants and flowers displayed at the Alpine Garden Society exhibition, showcasing diverse flora suited for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Vibrant alpine flowers displayed in terracotta pots at the Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing diverse plants and floral arrangements for enthusiasts and gardeners.
Miniature pine trees in terracotta and plastic pots, displayed at the Alpine Garden Society show highlighting garden plants, bonsai, and alpine flora for enthusiasts and horticulturists.
Purple and white orchids in terracotta pots displayed at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing exotic flower varieties and garden enthusiasts' expertise.
Exhibition of alpine plants and flowers at the Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing diverse flora in terracotta pots, including orchids and miniature plants, with visitors inspecting the displays.
Vivid display of potted spring bulbs and flowering plants at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing diverse cultivated varieties in an indoor exhibition setting.
Geraniums in terracotta pots at Alpine Garden Society plant show, showcasing vibrant flowering plants, cacti, and succulents for rock and alpine garden enthusiasts, creating a colourful display.
Vase of colourful flowering plants and foliage at Alpine Garden Society plant show in indoor exhibition hall.
Vibrant potted alpine plants and flowers displayed at the Alpine Garden Society exhibition, showcasing diverse species ideal for rock gardens and alpine habitats.
Colourful alpine plants in terracotta pots at an Alpine Garden Society exhibition, showcasing diverse flora suitable for mountainous and cooler climates.
Vibrant display of alpine plants and flowers at the Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing diverse varieties of hardy plants in terracotta and black pots for gardening enthusiasts.
Vibrant flowering plants and bonsai trees displayed at Alpine Garden Society annual show, showcasing expert horticultural skills and diverse alpine plant varieties for garden enthusiasts.

Display of AGS Activities

At one end of the hall, John Savage had put together an instructive display about AGS Activities, for which he received a Gold Medal.

Alpine plants displayed in terracotta pots at an Alpine Garden Society exhibition with informational boards in the background.
Vibrant potted spring flowers including tulips, daffodils, and primroses displayed at an Alpine Garden Society flower show in a bright indoor setting.
Vibrant display of chrysanthemums, heathers, and other Alpine garden plants at the Alpine Garden Society exhibition booth, showcasing a variety of flowering plants suitable for alpine gardens.
Vibrant display of alpine plants and flowers on blue garden society boards, showcasing diverse species and garden ideas at Alpine Garden Society event.

Six large pans of rock plants

Show secretary Chris Lilley’s large six pan entry dominated the entrance to the hall.  Surprisingly, this grouping included three different Andromeda in the front row; the back row contained a Vaccinium, flanked by two different Dicentra.  Fortunately, although definitely large, these were in plastic pots and light, ericaeous compost; much lighter than his normal fare.  The judges were happy to award Chris the AGS Medal for this exhibit.

Vivid display of alpine plants in various pots at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing diverse flowering species perfect for rock gardens and mountainous regions.
Six large pans of rock plants exhibited by Chris Lilley

Andromeda polifolia compacta

From Chris Lilley’s six pan entry.

Alpine Heather flowering plant in a pot, ideal for rock gardens and alpine gardening, showcasing vibrant pink and white blossoms.
Dense patch of pink and white edelweiss flowers with green foliage, showcasing alpine garden flora.

Dicentra cucullaria

Also from Chris Lilley’s six pan entry.

Vivid white and yellow Alpine Orchid blossoms with long slender petals, lush green foliage, and rare mountain-plant beauty, showcasing alpine garden flora perfect for enthusiasts.
White orchid flowers with yellow accents, part of the Alpine Garden Society collection, showcasing rare and beautiful alpine flora for enthusiasts and gardeners.

Large Three-pan Classes

After photographing the six-pan entry, I went round the show, trying to photograph the winning three pan entries.  I did this first at the South Wales show, and the exhibitors enjoyed the sense it gave of the show, so I have made a rod for my own back.

I couldn’t do this in class order, as I was dodging judges and stewards, so I hope I didn’t miss any classes.

Here are:

  • Three large pans of rock plants exhibited by Don Peace
  • Three large pans of rock plants – one Cyclamen, one bulbous, one for foliage effect exhibited by Bob Worsley
  • Three large pans of bulbous plants exhibited by Steve Clements
  • Three large pans of rock plants – one Primulaceae, one bulbous and one dwarf shrub exhibited by John Savage
  • Three large pans of rock plants from different continents exhibited by Bob Worsley
  • Three large three pans of dwarf shrubs exhibited by John Savage
  • Three large pans of rock plants for foliage effect exhibited by Bob Worsley
  • Three large pans of Sempervivum exhibited by Chris Lilley
Vivid purple orchids and white daisy-like flowers in terracotta pots at an Alpine Garden Society plant exhibition.
Pink and yellow tulips in terracotta pots at Alpine Garden Society exhibition, showcasing seasonal bulb displays and floral arrangements.
Vivid alpine plants in terracotta pots exhibited at the Alpine Garden Society horticultural show, showcasing diverse flowering species for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Lush potted plants including cyclamen and miniature flowering varieties displayed at the Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing diverse alpine and rock garden plants for enthusiasts.
Vibrant potted cyclamen, lush ivy, and elegant purple foliage plants displayed at an Alpine Garden Society exhibition showcasing seasonal flowering plants and garden displays.
Lily of the Valley and white Cyclamen flowering plants in terracotta and black pots, displayed for Alpine Garden Society horticultural exhibits.
Vibrant potted garden plants including Heuchera, Begonia, and ferns displayed in a garden centre setting, emphasising diverse foliage and floral beauty suitable for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Alpine garden plants in terracotta pots at a plant exhibition, showcasing diverse hardy succulents and alpine flora ideal for garden enthusiasts and collectors.

Three large pans of rock plants from North America

The judging of this class caused much debate.  John Richards entered three well grown alpines in flower – Trillium kurabayashii and two forms of Lewisia tweedyi.  However, he came second to Anne Vale, who entered three large pans of Mammillaria, none of which were in flower.

The Mammillaria combined really well as a group, but the plants in the other exhibit were all in flower, and there are several pundits who feel that the Mammillaria are not sufficiently hardy.

Bright and colourful alpine plants and flowers in terracotta and plastic pots, showcasing vibrant primulas, cyclamen, and other alpine species, ideal for garden enthusiasts and collectors.
Alpine cacti and succulent plants in pots at a garden show, showcasing diverse species and textures for rock gardens and alpine plant collections.

One Large pan of Orchidaceae

Three lovely pans of Pleione contested the class for one pan of Orchidaceae.  In the end, the places seemed to reflect the principle that biggest was best.

Vibrant alpine and BC houseplants displayed in terracotta pots at the Alpine Garden Society event, highlighting rare orchids and floral arrangements.

Miniature Garden

Carol Kellett won the Steve Furness trophy for a miniature garden without accessories.  I photographed this as I was going round – I didn’t want to have to carry it.

Alpine garden rockery with various succulents and mosses in a large terracotta pot, part of Alpine Garden Society collection.

Small Three-pan Classes

Moving on to the small pan classes, here are:

  • three small pans of rock plants – three entries
  • three small pans of rock plants exhibited by Ian Instone
  • three small pans of rock plants distinct genera excluding Primulaceae exhibited by John Dixon.
  • three small pans of Primula exhibited by Chris Lilley
  • three small pans of rock plants – one Cyclamen, one bulbous, one for foliage effect – winning entry exhibited by Bob Worsley
  • three small pans of rock plant – one Cyclamen, one bulbous, one for foliage effect exhibited by John Savage
  • three small pans of Orchidaceae exhibited by Neil Hubbard
  • three small pans of bulbous plants – two entries
  • three small pans of bulbous plants exhibited by Don Peace
  • three small pans of Fritillaria exhibited by Don Peace
  • three small pans of new or rare plants exhibited by John Richards
  • three small pans of rock plants from seed exhibited by Bob Worsley
  • three small pans of rock plants with educational information exhibited by Don Peace.
Bright pink, white, and green flowering plants in terracotta pots displayed at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing diverse hardy plants ideal for alpine gardening in the UK.
Bright pink and purple primulas in terracotta pots, showcased at the Alpine Garden Society event, highlighting their vibrant colours and alpine plant cultivation.
Primula auricula hybrid varieties in terracotta pots at Alpine Garden Society exhibition, showcasing colourful alpine primulas for rock gardens and containers.
Climbing Cyclamen with variegated green leaves and delicate white blossoms, showcased at the Alpine Garden Society event for alpine and shade plant enthusiasts.
Primroses (Primula spp.) with colourful blooms in terracotta pots, part of Alpine Garden Society display, showcasing hardy plants suitable for alpine and rock gardens, perfect for garden enthusiasts.
Vibrant flowering plants in containers at an Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing diverse alpine and hardy garden plants for enthusiasts and collectors.
Orchid flowers in terracotta pots at Alpine Garden Society flower show, showcasing varieties like Orchis anthrophora and Orchis amboinensis, displayed on a garden exhibition table for plant enthusiasts.
Vibrant display of potted alpine and garden plants including orchids and flowering bulbs at an Alpine Garden Society event or exhibition in a bright indoor setting.
Frilliaria Lenten Rose in terracotta pot, vibrant yellow flowers, at Alpine Garden Society plant display, showcasing hardy spring blooms for garden enthusiasts, healthy and well-maintained.
Primula vulgaris, yellow flowering primrose in terracotta pot, suitable for alpine gardens and rockery plantings.
Fritillaria lutea and alfredae glaucovuridis flowering alpine plants in terracotta pots at an alpine garden society exhibition.
Vivid pink cyclamen flowers and lush green foliage in terracotta pots, showcasing alpine plants at the Alpine Garden Society exhibition in a controlled indoor environment.

Three small pans of Rock Plants in Flower, grown from Seed

There is a special award for this class, the Fieldhouse Trophy, which was won by Steve Walters.  I took this image whilst going round the show, fully intending to take these three pots out to my studio in the foyer later on.  Sadly, it slipped my mind, and this (lousy) picture is all I have.  My apologies to Steve.

Cyclamen hederifolium in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant pink and white flowers with variegated green leaves, displayed at the Alpine Garden Society event in the UK.
Cyclamen hybrid flowering plant display at the Alpine Garden Society show showcasing vibrant pink and white blooms with variegated green leaves for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

One pan of Cactus

One of the more popular classes was for cacti in a 19cm pot, with five entries, all but one being forms of Rebutia heliosa.

Variegated and spherical succulent plants in terracotta pots displayed at the Alpine Garden Society show.

Intermediate Section

In the Intermediate section, there were only two three pan entries:

  • Three pans of bulbous plants exhibited by Steve Spells
  • Three pans of rock plants exhibited by Anita and Mike Acton
Fritillaria graeca in flower with white and purple blossoms in an alpine garden setting, displayed in pots with botanical labels on a plastic sheet.
Indoor succulent plants in terracotta and plastic pots, showcasing diverse foliage at the Alpine Garden Society exhibition. Perfect for enthusiasts and collectors.

Novice Section

Finally, in the Novice section, I found a class for three pans of rock plants – one Cyclamen, one bulbous, one for foliage effect, entered by Christine Jarvis.

Fryxellia revolutum, Cyclamen repandum and Athyrium niponicum plants in decorative pots, showcasing Alpine garden plants suitable for rock gardens and shady locations.

Flower Arrangement

I photographed one other entry before returning to the foyer – Anne Vale’s flower arrangement.  When judging was nearly over, I went back and carried it out to the foyer for more serious attention.

Vibrant spring flower arrangement featuring tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and pansies displayed at the Alpine Garden Society show. Perfect for garden enthusiasts and floral display competitions.
Bright spring flower arrangement featuring tulips, daffodils, pansies, and sweet peas in vibrant colours, perfect for alpine gardens and floral displays.
Bright alpine garden flowers including blue gentians, yellow daffodils, white primulas, and pink blooms, showcasing vibrant springtime alpine plants and expert horticultural arrangements for garden enthusiasts.

Erythronium ‘Joanna’

I always seek out first the plants which might deteriorate in the show hall conditions.  Erythronium are notorious for this, the petals wrinkling and curling up out of their preferred cool humid air.  So this pan from Diane Clement was next.

Fritillaria imperialis flowering plant in pot with vibrant green leaves and yellow blossoms, ideal for alpine gardens and rockeries in UK gardens.
White and yellow alpine garden flowering plant with lush green foliage, symbolising the beauty of high-altitude plants, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and collectors.
Blooming yellow and white alpine flowers, showcasing rare plant species from the Alpine Garden Society for rock gardening and alpine plant enthusiasts.
Yellow and white alpine flowers from the Alpine Garden Society, showcasing diverse mountain plants ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Erythronium ‘Ryedale’

This larger pan of Erythronium won Della Kerr the Chatsworth Trophy for the best pan of bulbs.

Vivid flowering cyclamen plant with white blossoms and variegated green leaves in an indoor garden setting.
White lily-like alpine flower with elongated petals and prominent stamens, part of the Alpine Garden Society's collection.

Pleione Rakata gx. ‘Shot Silk’

Now I turned to the plants in the Novice Section. Catherine Pennington exhibited a good pan of Pleione.

Pink and yellow Orchid in a terracotta pot, showcasing Alpine Garden Society's collection of alpine and Hardy orchids. Perfect for cold climate gardening and growing unique, rare plants.
Pink orchid flower with ruffled yellow and red centre, showcasing exotic alpine flora for Garden Society enthusiasts.

Primula marginata ‘Inshriach’

I very much enjoyed the flowers and the farina on this small pan of Primula marginata from Sue Spells.

Rich purple flowering Primula from the Alpine Garden Society plant collection, showcasing hardy and vibrant plants suited for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Violet Primula plant with vibrant purple flowers and green, serrated leaves, popular in alpine gardens.

Hepatica americana

The Nottingham Junior Challenge Trophy for the Novice Section aggregate went to Christine Jarvis.  Her plants included a very neat little Hepatica.

Pink primula flowers in a pot, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts, showcasing vibrant spring blooms.
Vivid close-up of delicate alpine garden flowers with lavender petals and bright yellow stamens, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant collectors.

Iris pumila x aphylla

Christine also exhibited this lovely Iris hybrid.

Violet iris flowers in a pot with green leaves, showcasing vibrant blooms perfect for alpine gardens and flower enthusiasts.
Violet iris flowers in bloom, showcasing vibrant purple petals and green foliage, representing alpine garden beauty and planting ideas for rock gardens and outdoor displays.

Iris ‘Wee Harry’

In the Open Section, Bob Worsley exhibited this rather attractive Iris called ‘Wee Harry’.

Iris germanica 'Alpine Garden Society' blooming in a terracotta pot with green foliage, showcasing a rare and beautiful variety, ideal for gardening enthusiasts and collectors.

Armeria caespitosa ‘Bevans Variety’

The Nottingham Shield for the Intermediate Section aggregate went to Michael Wilson, who exhibited this fine pan of Armeria caespitosa ‘Bevans Variety’ – a good garden plant.

Purple alpine flowering plant in terracotta pot, close-up shot, vibrant colour, suitable for rock gardens and alpine landscapes, garden enthusiasts, seasonal bloom, picturesque outdoor decor.
Colourful pink alpine flowers, suitable for rock gardens and alpine gardening enthusiasts. Perfect for plant lovers interested in rare and beautiful alpine plants.

Pleione ‘Ueli Wackernagel Enigma’

The Open Section was dominated by a fine display of Pleione from several different growers. I took lots of pictures of them; all were in great condition and very photogenic.  And, of course, the pots were all very light.

Don Peace had at least two pans of Pleione ‘Ueli Wackernagel Enigma’, though I have a feeling there may have been more.  It is one of my favourites.

Vibrant pink Cymbidium orchids in a terracotta pot, showcasing the beauty of alpine garden plants and orchids for garden enthusiasts.
Vivid purple orchids in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant blooms suitable for alpine gardening and specialist plant enthusiasts.
Purple and white orchids blooming in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine garden plant varieties for enthusiasts and collectors. Perfect for alpine, garden, and floral display enthusiasts.
Purple orchid flowers growing in a terracotta pot, highlighting alpine plant collection. Perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts seeking unique, hardy blooms.

Three small pans of Rock Plants with Educational Information

One of the outstanding exhibits for me was Don Peace’s group of three Pleione cultivars with cultivation information.

Exotic flowering plants in terracotta pots at Alpine Garden Society flower show, showcasing vibrant orchids and garden plants.

These three Pleione cultivars were:

  • Pleione Asama ‘Red Grouse’
  • Pleione Betty Arnold ‘Palm Swift’
  • Pleione Vesuvius grex ‘Phoenix’
Pink orchid flowers in a terracotta pot showcasing alpine garden plant varieties and floral diversity for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts.
Pink orchid flowers with fringed lips, vibrant and detailed, suitable for alpine and garden enthusiasts, photographed in a pot on a neutral background.
Vanda orchid with pink petals and yellow and red labellum in a terracotta pot, part of alpine gardening plant collection.
Pink and yellow orchid with intricate lip detail, showcasing Alpine Garden Society's collection of rare and beautiful alpine plants. Perfect for enthusiasts and collectors.
Pink and yellow orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine gardening and unique floral varieties.
Pink and purple orchids in a terracotta pot, highlighting alpine and garden flora, ideal for alpine garden society enthusiasts, botanical collectors, and indoor plant lovers.
Purple orchid flowers from the Alpine Garden Society, showcasing vibrant colours and intricate details typical of alpine plants, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Violet orchid flowering plant, close-up of tropical Cymbidium orchid with vibrant petals and intricate lip, used for garden displays and floral arrangements.

One Large pan of Orchidaceae

The class for one pan of Orchidaceae in the large pan section was equally spectacular.

Don Peace was third with a fine pan of Pleione Berapi ‘Purple Sandpiper’.

Vibrant pink orchids in a terracotta pot, showcasing alpine garden flowering plants perfect for rock gardens and container displays.
Vibrant pink orchids from the Alpine Garden Society, showcasing stunning rare and alpine plants ideal for rock gardens and mountain gardening enthusiasts.

John Craven came second with a lovely pan of Pleione ‘Shantung Ducat’.

Potted yellow orchids with red markings, recommended for alpine gardens, showcasing their vibrant blossoms and hardy nature in alpine environments.
Orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant yellow petals with red and yellow markings, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and collectors.
Vanda orchid flowering plant, tropical monocot with large colourful petals, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts, orchid collectors, and botanical gardens.

In first place was Pleione Glacier Peak ‘Everest’ from Steve Clements.

Orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, Alpine Garden Society, delicate white and lavender orchids for alpine gardening or greenhouse displays.
Bizarre orchid flower with white, purple, and frilled lips, showcasing unique floral structure and vibrant colours at Alpine Garden Society.
Exquisite Orchid Cattleya with delicate lavender petals and intricate white and maroon labellum, ideal for alpine gardens and orchid enthusiasts.

Pleione aurita x speciosa

Diane Clement also exhibited Pleione.  This is her Pleione aurita x speciosa.  [Thanks to Don Peace for the name correction.]

Vivid pink orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing unique petal shapes and vibrant colours, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and orchid collectors.
Pink orchid with ruffled, vibrant petals and intricate markings, part of the Alpine Garden Society's collection showcasing alpine and mountain plants for gardening enthusiasts.

Pleione grandiflora

Best of all, and a contender for best in show, was this wonderful pan of Pleione grandiflora from John Craven, which ended up winning a Certificate of Merit.

White orchid flowers in a terracotta pot showcasing alpine gardening and rare plant cultivation for alpine garden enthusiasts.
White orchid flowers, alpine garden society, rare orchid species, blooming orchids, garden plant photography.

Orchis anthropophora

In the small pan classes, another orchid won a Certificate of Merit.  This time it went to Steve Clements for a good pan of the Man Orchid, Orchis anthropophora.

Alpine garden Society flowering plant with tall green flowering stalks and lush green leaves in a terracotta pot.
RHS Orchid 2021, Disa uniflora, South African native orchid, intriguing yellow and green flowering spike, perfect for alpine gardens and rockeries.
Vernal orchids flowering in alpine garden, close-up of green and yellow blossoms, essential for alpine plant enthusiasts, wildflower lovers, and garden growers.
Vivid close-up of a green and yellow flowering plant, showcasing intricate details of seed pods and floral structures, highlighting stunning alpine garden plant features for enthusiasts.
Flowering alpine plant with green and brown seed pods, part of garden flora, focus on alpine gardening and plant conservation, detailed macro shot for botanical study and plant enthusiasts, highlighting plant structure and seed development in alpine environments.

Fritillaria aurea x pinardii

Don Peace also brought quite a number of Fritillaria hybrids, all as far as I know raised by Don himself.  This was one of the most attractive, with wide open, golden bells.

Yellow Fritillaria meleagris flowers in a terracotta pot, garden plant, alpine garden society, wildflower, bulbous perennial, nature, flowering plant, garden decoration, botanical, seasonal bloom, UK flora, cultivated garden plant.
Yellow Fritillaria meleagris gladiolus flowers in a garden pot, a popular choice for alpine and rock garden enthusiasts, showcasing unique bell-shaped blooms.
Yellow Fritillaria meleagris flowers in a lush green garden, showcasing exquisite alpine plant species for garden enthusiasts.

Fritillaria ‘Lentune’ hybrids

Don’s more complex Fritillaria hybrids, and indeed cultivars of other genera which he has produce, all carry names branded with the name Lentune.  His website says “’Lentune’ is the name of our village (Kirklevington) as recorded in the Doomsday book. Before the church was built it was simply Levington = Leven town = the town on the river Leven = Lentune. Or so the village history society reckon”.  There are lots more Fritillaria on the website which didn’t appear at the show.

The ones which did make it to the show are:

  • Lentune Laggard
  • Lentune Lustre
  • Lentune Slate
  • Lentune Lovat
Yellow Alpine Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis) in a pot, showcasing early spring flowering plants for alpine gardens, ideal for rockeries and container plantings.
Yellow flowering alpine plants from the Alpine Garden Society showcasing vibrant blooms and lush green foliage. Ideal for rock gardens and alpine flower enthusiasts.
Alpine Garden Society supported plant with yellow spotted flowers and green foliage in a terracotta pot, suitable for alpine and rock garden enthusiasts.
Fritillaria meleagris, also known as snake's head fritillary, in a garden setting with lush green foliage and a neutral grey background, showcasing its distinctive bell-shaped, checkered flowers.
Fritillaria meleagris orchids in a classic display, showcasing their distinctive bell-shaped flowers and green foliage, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Assorted wildflowers in a terracotta pot, tall green leaves with yellow-brown bell-shaped flowers, cultivated in an Alpine garden for wildlife and botanical interest.
Fritillaria meleagris, also known as snake's head fritillary, with distinctive checkerboard-patterned petals, growing among lush green grass for alpine garden enthusiasts and wildflower gardens.
Fritillaria meleagris in a terracotta pot with green foliage, perfect for alpine and rock gardens.
Ornamental Fritillary flowers with green foliage, showcasing alpine garden plants suitable for rock gardens and special garden collections.

Fritillaria alfredae subsp glaucoviridis

Don’s exhibits also included Fritillaria species.  I particularly enjoyed this glaucous green one.

Alpine garden society wildflower in pot, green foliage with pale yellow flowers, alpine gardening plant, rock garden plant, conservation, biodiversity.

Fritillaria meleagris alba

One last Fritillaria from Don Peace.  He had several pans of Fritillaria meleagris, and I always love the white form.  I have tried to grow this several times from seed, but always end up with pots of purple ones which get planted out in  the garden.

These, together with the Pleione and the many other plants he brought, earned Don the Gould Trophy for the Open section aggregate.

Clivia miniata flowering plant in a terracotta pot with green foliage and yellow flowers, ideal for alpine gardens and shade gardens.
White alpine garden society snowdrops in pot for gardening enthusiasts and alpine plant collectors.
White bell-shaped alpine flowers with green streaks, part of the Alpine Garden Society collection, showcasing hardy plants ideal for rock gardens and alpine environments.
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White bell-shaped alpine flowers with green streaks, part of the Alpine Garden Society’s collection, highlighting rare and beautiful mountain plants for enthusiasts and gardeners.

Chamaelaucium species

And now for something completely different.  John Savage exhibited a wide range of shrubs, including this interesting plant from Western Australia.  I always photograph these when I see them; the flowers tend to open in sequence rather than all at once, so this is well-flowered.  They are not reliably hardy in the garden in the UK, except perhaps in sheltered spots in the south, and are best kept just frost-free.

Pink-blooming alpine plant with dense foliage, ideal for rock gardens and alpine collections; vibrant flowers and lush green leaves.
Vaccine Alpine Heather (Erica carnea) in full bloom with delicate pink and white flowers, perfect for rock gardens and alpine creations.
Primula capitata flowering plant with pink and white blossoms, native to alpine regions, ideal for rock gardens, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts, promotes biodiversity.
Alpine Garden Society, thriving potted cushion of pink and white flowering Erica carnea in an outdoor garden setting.

Diosma ‘Pink Fountain’

John also exhibited this lovely shrub, hailing from the Cape Province of South Africa.  Again, it is not reliably hardy, but what a beautiful thing.  I was intrigued that the name ‘Pink Fountain’ was given to a plant that appears to have white flowers; searching the internet with this name yields a mixture of pink and white plants.

Alpine garden shrub with small white flowers, suitable for rock gardens and containers. Ideal for enthusiasts of alpine plants and gardening in challenging environments.
Dense green foliage with white alpine flowers, perfect for alpine gardens and rockeries, showcasing the beauty of hardy plants suitable for mountain regions.

Rhododendron ‘Pintail’

In the small pan classes, John had a small plant of this Rhododendron cultivar, covered in flowers.  I was puzzled to see it so compact, and suspect it may have been clipped to keep its shape.

Pink rhododendron in bloom, symbolising alpine gardening and garden society activities, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts.
Rhododendron indica flowering plant with pink and white blossoms in a garden pot.

Andromeda polifolia compacta

John’s best plants were Andromeda.  This one won the Chesterfield Vase for the best pan of Ericaceae.

Pink flowering alpine plant in a terracotta pot, ideal for rock gardens and containers, showcasing vibrant flowers and lush green foliage.
Vireya rhododendron flowers with pink buds and green foliage, perfect for alpine gardens and rockeries, showcasing vibrant and hardy plants from the Alpine Garden Society.

Andromeda polifolia ‘Blue Ice’

In the small pan classes, John had another Andromeda, which to my eye was even better.  Either the judges know something I don’t, or it just failed to catch their eyes when they were looking for ericaceous plants.

Pink alpine flowers in a pot, ideal for garden enthusiasts and alpine garden societies, showcasing vibrant blooms and lush foliage.

Gypsophila aretioides caucasica

In the cushion classes, Ian Instone had a perfect green dome of Gypsophila.

Green moss in terracotta pot, alpine garden society, lush vibrant moss, garden decoration, indoor plant display, miniature garden, green foliage, hardy plants, botanical collection, outdoor décor, natural plant arrangement, horticulture enthusiast, cultivated moss, garden plant, landscaping element, plant conservation, eco-friendly gardening, DIY garden projects, small garden ideas, lush greenery, plant biodiversity, nature-inspired décor, plant care tips, sustainable gardening.

Anisotome imbricata subsp imbricata

Geoff Rollinson’s Anisotome from the South Island of New Zealand was here again, this time in flower.

Dense green mountain saxifrage plant in a terracotta pot, ideal for alpine gardening and rock gardens. Perfect for enthusiasts interested in alpine plants and hardy garden species.
Vivid close-up of rare alpine plants with green leaves and tiny white flowers, showcasing unique mountain flora for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Haastia pulvinaris subsp minor

I photographed this ‘vegetable sheep’, again from the South Island of New Zealand, at the Loughborough show.  Still marvelling at Geoff Rollinson’s skill in growing it, I wanted to try again, and I think I caught it better this time.

Unique alpine succulent rosettes in a terracotta pot, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and rock garden collections.

Woodsia polystichoides

I loved the tiny new fronds on this Woodsia.  Don Peace tells me that it is not a small form; the fronds will get larger, and the plant will be in a much larger pot by the time of the East Anglia show

Fern plant in terracotta pot, ideal for alpine gardens and shade gardens, perfect for enthusiasts and collectors of hardy plants.

Ranunculus montanus ‘Molten Gold’

This is one of my favourite plants, and it brings back old memories for me.  I grew it in an area of rock garden I was given when little, when it performed wonderfully.  Since then I have tried to grow it and failed several times; my voracious molluscs always find it eventually.  Evidently, Don Peace has no such problems.

Bright yellow alpine flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing hardy garden plants suitable for mountainous climates, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Yellow alpine flowers in a terracotta pot, vibrant bloomy blossoms, alpine gardening, hardy plants, alpine garden society, garden flowers, spring bloom, decorative garden plants, plant for rock gardens, colourful plant display.

Saxifraga ‘Allendale Bonny’

There weren’t many saxifrages on the show bench, but this one, from Geoff Rollinson, was fabulous.

Green flowering plant in terracotta pot, suitable for alpine gardens and rockeries, a popular choice among Alpine Garden Society members, thriving in well-drained, rocky soil conditions.
Yellow and pink primula flowers in a garden setting, showcasing early spring blooms for alpine and rock garden plant enthusiasts.

Pulsatilla vulgaris ‘Papageno’

Bob Worsley brought a fine specimen of this fringed Pulsatilla cultivar, in an extremely heavy long clay pot.

Pink alpine flower, vibrant daisy-like blooms with yellow centres, grown for alpine gardening and rock garden displays, perfect for alpine garden society enthusiasts.
Pink flowering cactus dahlia with vibrant petals and yellow centres, part of the Alpine Garden Society collection, showcasing stunning alpine plant varieties.
Pink alpine flowers with yellow centers, vibrant and blooming, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant collectors. Perfect for Alpine Garden Society horticultural displays and garden landscapes.

Primula bullata var. bracteata

The AGS Seed Distribution Award for the best plant grown from seed went to Peter Hood for this unusual Primula from Yunnan.

Primula auricula flowering plant in a terracotta pot with yellow blossoms and textured green leaves, suitable for alpine gardens.
Primula vulgaris yellow primrose flower plant, hardy perennial garden flower for British gardens.

Primula subpyrenaica

John Richards exhibited this little plant from the Pyrenees.  It belongs in the Auricula Section of Primula, but has recently been separated from P. auricula on a morphological basis, and has been published with this name.  In the wild, it is confined to an area of less than 4kms long in the Serra de Picancel, Spain.

Yellow primula in terracotta pot, alpine garden society plant, hardy perennial for rock gardens, vibrant flowering plant, garden enthusiast gift idea.
Primula allionii flowering plant with bright yellow flowers and lush green leaves, suitable for alpine gardening and rock gardens. A stunning addition to alpine plant collections and garden landscapes.

Primula denticulata var alba

John Richards also exhibited this magnificent specimen of a familiar garden plant.  Easy to grow in the garden if you are not troubled by vine weevil.

White primula auricula flowering plant in a black pot, showcasing alpine garden plants and hardy garden flora for outdoor and indoor gardening.
White primula flowers with yellow centres for alpine gardening and garden society enthusiasts.

Primula hirsuta

This Primula hirsuta from John Richards brought back memories of the days when I would travel to shows with my stepfather, and crates and crates of European primulas.

Purple primula plant in a terracotta pot with green leaves and rocky soil, showcasing vibrant blooms perfect for alpine gardens.

Primula elatior subsp pallasii

This was a fantastic plant, with huge flowers, which John Richards raised from seed collected in Anatolia.

Primula auricula, yellow flowering alpine plant with large green leaves, popular in alpine gardens and rockeries.
Primula auricula flowers, bright yellow with orange centres, perfect for alpine gardens, displayed against a neutral background.

Three small pans of Primula

In the small pan class for three pans of Primula, Chris Lilley exhibited three yellow hybrids, which Brian Burrow had given him.  These are, respectively:

  • Primula ‘Alans Seedling’ – I have no knowledge of this. I wonder if the Alan in the name is Alan Newton ?
  • Primula ‘Lindum Goldrush’ – raised by the Thompsons.
  • Primula ‘Mary Chapman’ – this was one of David Philbey’s seedlings (DPP 811-07) which was sown in 2006 and flowered first in 2007.

No parentage is recorded for ‘Mary Chapman’, but at the time David was vigorously crossing yellow hybrids (with P. auricula in them) with white P. allionii and P. x pubescens, including P. ‘Broadwell Milkmaid’, in an effort to produce a yellow hybrid with the stature and growth habit of P. allionii.

In the end some of his seedlings came quite close, but he never really separated the yellow colour from the P. auricula genes controlling leaf size and stem length, and in particular the P. auricula tendency not to offset vigorously.

Yellow Primula in a terracotta pot, a popular plant for alpine gardens and container gardening. Bright blooms and lush green foliage make it a favourite among Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts.
Primula vulgaris, also known as primrose, growing in a terracotta pot, showcasing its vibrant yellow flowers and lush green leaves, perfect for alpine gardening and rock garden collections.
Yellow primula in pot for alpine garden society, showcasing vibrant blooms and glossy green leaves, ideal for rock gardens and alpine plant enthusiasts.
Bright yellow primula flowers blooming in a pot, showcasing vibrant colour and healthy foliage, ideal for alpine gardening and garden enthusiasts interested in hardy plant varieties.

Primula henrici ACE 1671

The Finley Swift Trophy for the best plant in a 19cm pot went to Geoff Rollinson for this pan of Primula henrici.

Primula henrici ACE 1671 exhibited by Geoff Rollinson
Violet Primula flowers in a garden pot, vibrant and colourful alpine plants, ideal for rock gardens and container planting, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts.

Primula ‘Stella’

This large plant of Primula ‘Stella’ went up for the Farrer, and in the end won a Certificate of Merit for Geoff Rollinson.

My stepfather, David Philbey, first encountered this at an AGS West Sussex Group local group show in Chichester around 1990, grown by Stella Tribe from Southampton.  Stella was always very coy about where she got it from, just saying it had come from the garden of one of the senior AGS members in that area, so in the end David named it ‘Stella’.

David pestered her all day for a cutting, which seemed a bit importunate at the time, and eventually at packing up time, she pulled a shoot off the side and gave it to him.  A year or so later she was asking for a cutting back, as she had lost the main plant.  So it was fortunate that he had been so determined.

David propagated this plant heavily, and gave it to all his friends – Nigel Fuller, Eric Jarrett, Brian Burrow, Ian Kidman and others.  All the material in cultivation since that time can be traced back to that one cutting he begged from Stella.

Purple flowering plant in a terracotta pot, exotic garden, vibrant blossom, perfect for alpine gardening, wildlife friendly, flower cultivation, garden enthusiasts, Alpine Garden Society, late spring flowers, ornamental plants for rock gardens.
Violet primula flowers, part of the Alpine Garden Society plant collection, showcasing vibrant early spring blooms in a curated alpine garden setting.

Androsace barbulata

As well as Primulas, there were a few Androsace on the bench.  David Charlton exhibited this little pan of Androsace barbulata.

Alpine primula flowering plant in terracotta pot, suitable for alpine gardens and rockeries, showcasing vibrant white blooms with red centres.
White flowering primula with red and yellow centres, thriving in alpine gardens. Perfect for rockeries and containers, adds vibrant colour to garden borders. Ideal for enthusiasts of alpine plant cultivation.

Androsace villosa GFS73

At the autumn show in Harlow Carr last year, I photographed a cushion of Androsace rosettes, exhibited by John Dixon.  This is a cultivar of Androsace villosa collected many years ago in Bulgaria by George Smith, who wrote the book about Androsace.  Now at last it was in flower.

An alpine flowering plant with small white flowers in a terracotta pot for garden enthusiasts and alpine garden society members.
Bright white and yellow alpine flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing the beauty of hardy plants for mountain gardens, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant collectors.

Androsace villosa var. taurica

Finally, Geoff Rollinson exhibited a wonderful white dome of Androsace villosa var. taurica.  This won the John and Gill Saxton Memorial Trophy for the best plant native to Europe, and, of course, the Farrer medal for the best plant in the show.

White alpine flowers in full bloom, perfect for garden enthusiasts and alpine garden lovers. Ideal for outdoor gardening and landscape decoration with hardy rock garden plants.
White flowering alpine plants in terracotta pot, close-up, lush blooms, garden decoration, RHS and alpine gardening, healthy foliage, compact growth, perfect for rock gardens and containers.

I had a great day.  The bacon, and sausage, rolls and cups of tea provided by the hall’s catering staff were excellent.  Lots of visitors came; the ladies manning the entrance were busy most of the day.

But best of all I had the chance to chat to some friends I haven’t encountered yet this year at shows, just because I was a little further north.  In particular, it was a joy to meet again my old friend Ju Bramley, who only ever comes to this show now.

So thanks to Chris Lilley and all his team of helpers for staging a great event.  I hope the show will continue, and that I will be able to visit next year.

Read previous entries at The Photographers Diary

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