AGS Pershore Show 2023

Jon Evans reviews the plants and artwork from a wonderful AGS Pershore Show, as daffodils and Hepatica come to the fore. ...(more below)
March 3, 2023
AGS Editor
Category(s):
Genera:
Species:

There’s no rest for the wicked.  I posted my diary entry about the South Wales show on Friday afternoon.  At 7am the following morning I was on my way to the AGS Pershore Show.

For complicated reasons, I had spent the night in Oxford, so my route ran up the A424 to Stow-on-the-Wold, and thence to Evesham.  It was a bright cold morning, and the verge glistened with patches of snowdrops.  In Burford a bright purple sheet of Crocus tommasinianus on one of the banks warmed my heart.

Arriving at the AGS Pershore Show

By 8.30 I was in the show hall.  Many more daffodils and corydalis than we had seen the previous week, fewer snowdrops, and the dionysias marching on.

Alpine garden society flower display at indoor plant show showcasing potted alpine plants and spring bulbs in terracotta pots.
Potted alpine plants display at Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing vibrant primroses, pansies, and other hardy species on black display tables indoors.
Yellow and purple flowering plants in terracotta pots at Alpine Garden Society exhibition, with visitors viewing displays and garden displays in the background.
Brightly coloured primulas and alpine plants in terracotta pots displayed at the Alpine Garden Society show, showcasing diverse hardy plants ideal for rock and alpine gardens.
Alpine plants in terracotta pots displayed at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing a variety of colourful alpine flowers and cacti in an indoor exhibition setting.
Alpine garden Society flower exhibits showcasing vibrant cyclamen in terracotta pots at a gardening show.
Pot display of colourful alpine plants at the Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing various flowering species in terracotta pots on a long table indoors.
Vibrant pot plants on display at the Alpine Garden Society flower competition, showcasing a variety of colourful alpine flowers for gardening enthusiasts and alpine plant lovers.

An exhibit by Pugh’s Cacti at one end of the hall added a touch of the exotic.  Nearly all the plants I bought at the show came from their stand.

Vibrant collection of cacti and succulents displayed on a table at an Alpine Garden Society event, showcasing diverse desert plants suitable for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Judging

Before long, judging had started.  I took some photos of the huddle which develops when they are voting for the Farrer Medal plant.  The first photo shows the rest of the hall; stewards, including exhibitors whose plants are still in the mix, wait in silent anticipation of the result.

Vibrant display of alpine plants and flowers showcased at the Alpine Garden Society event, with attendees admiring and discussing plant varieties in a well-organised exhibition setting.
Alpine Garden Society members gathering indoors, discussing alpine plants and gardening techniques, fostering community and knowledge sharing among enthusiasts.
Vibrant group of garden enthusiasts at an Alpine Garden Society event, engaging in plant displays and horticultural discussions, promoting alpine gardening passion and community involvement.
Alpine Garden Society members attending a plant exhibition and discussion at a gardening event.

Artistic Section

Pershore is the first show which has an artistic section.  I was delighted to see that there were five exhibitors with about thirty paintings contesting these classes.  We don’t see art at many of the shows, so I am going to look at it in some detail.

One of my previous blog entries from 2015 describes the requirements and expectations for the different classes in the artistic section, with examples.  Sadly, we do not have the photography classes any more, and the classes for paintings, drawings and needlework have been renumbered slightly, but this is still a useful reference.

The post does not provide examples for the classes for a painting of part of an alpine plant (226, 227, 274), or for paintings in a creative style (228, 229, 275), as those were new at the time.  However, Anne Wright’s entries from that season (2015) provide an excellent exemplar.  First paintings of part of an alpine plant, and the last in a creative style.

Vibrant purple and yellow fritillaria flowers from Alpine Garden Society, showcasing Alpine plants in bloom for garden enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Purple yellow tulip flower illustration for Alpine Garden Society plant identification and gardening enthusiasts.
Purple Iris flower close-up artwork in the style of botanical illustration, showcasing vibrant petals and intricate details, ideal for Alpine Garden Society plant and flower enthusiasts.
White alpine flower in watercolor style, snowdrop or galanthus near alpine garden, early spring bloom, garden flora, botanical illustration, nature, delicate petals, outdoor plant photography, gardening, botanical art.

Pictures of Alpine Plants growing in their Natural Habitat

Let’s start with the classes for plants growing in their natural habitat.  There have always been arguments about how much ‘habitat’ needs to be included, and at one point we used to see the background painted fully.  More recently the judges have accepted an indicative amount of habitat information.

In the Open section, Rannveig Wallis entered these three paintings:

  • Crocus biflorus subsp. isauricus
  • Galanthus plicatus
  • Iris caucasica.

For the Crocus and the Galanthus, the surroundings gave an indication of the habitat and companion plants.  However, the Iris painting gives a rather sparse and uninformative indication of sprouting grass, and could perhaps be improved.

Vivid illustrations of alpine flowers including snowdrops, lily, and crocus, showcasing alpine garden plant species. Perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Crocus biflorus subsp. isauricus flowering on a rocky ground, illustration for Alpine Garden Society.
Wild snowdrop flowers botanical illustration of Galanthus plicatus for alpine gardening and plant enthusiasts.
Yellow iris plant drawing for alpine gardening enthusiasts and botanical collections.

In the Intermediate section, Lesley Travis entered a colour drawing of Soldanella alpina growing in the Dolomites.  Here the artist has included a full frame of surrounding habitat, probably working from a photograph.  This produces a very pleasing effect.  In the same class, new exhibitor, Rosemary Walker, entered a drawing of Thlaspi rotundiflorum.

Pink Soldanella alpina flowering plant in the Dolomites, botanical illustration with detailed leaves and rocky mountain background, part of Alpine Garden Society's plant collection.
Pink primula flowers watercolor painting on stone background, created by artist D. Buchanan in April 2021, showcasing vibrant alpine flora.

Portraits of Alpine Plants showing characteristic Habit

The next group of classes specify for portraits of alpine plants showing characteristic habit (NB. ‘habit’, not ‘habitat’, which is not required).  Here Rannveig Wallis won with three paintings of bulbs (Iris rosenbachiana, Triteleia laxa and Fritillaria sewerzowii).  These captured the habit of the plants very successfully.  I wonder if Rannveig originally intended the Iris rosenbachiana painting as a botanically accurate study, since it shows the roots of the plant.  This entry won Rannveig the Muriel Hodgman Art Award for  the Artistic Open Section aggregate.

Vivid botanical illustrations of alpine plants displayed on a blue wall, showcasing detailed artwork from the Alpine Garden Society for plant enthusiasts and collectors.
Fritillaria sewerzowii painted by Rannveig Wallis
Purple alpine flowers illustration for Alpine Garden Society botanical collection, featuring Triphylla laxa Dexter plant with detailed roots and vibrant blooms.
Iris rosenbachiana botanical illustration, wildflower plant, native to alpine regions, detailed artwork, educational botanical image.

Competing with Rannveig, Caroline Jackson-Houlston entered three much smaller, more intricate paintings of Cyclamen graecum, Scilla greilhuberi, and Erythronium dens-canis.  Somehow, whilst beautiful, these do not capture the character and habit of the plants quite as well.

Cyclamen graecum botanical illustration for alpine gardeners and plant enthusiasts.
Erythronium dens-canis Dog's Tooth Violet botanical illustration, alpine plant species, native to Europe, detailed artwork showcasing flower with mottled leaves, part of Alpine Garden Society collection.
Blue Himalayan blue poppies illustration for alpine gardening, showcasing Scilla greilhuberi. Perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts interested in rare and beautiful plant species.

There were two entries in the one painting class for plants showing characteristic habit.  This painting of Fritillaria meleagris by Caroline Jackson-Houlston won the class, and the Florence Baker Award for the best piece of artwork.

Fritillaria meleagris botanical illustration, detailed artwork of snake's head fritillary flowers, perfect for alpine gardening and plant enthusiasts, framed and ideal for garden hobbyists.
Fritillaria meleagris flowers, also known as snake's head fritillary, part of the Alpine Garden Society plant collection, showcasing rare bulbous plants for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

A new exhibitor, Stephen Shelley, also entered this class with a painting of Erodium x variabile ‘Bishops form’.  Here he has captured the leaves beautifully, but the flowers don’t look quite right.

Alpine Garden Society flowering plant illustration, showcasing vibrant purple blooms and lush green foliage, ideal for alpine plant enthusiasts and garden designers.
Delphinium flower with green foliage and brown soil background, showcasing alpine garden plant detail and natural beauty.

In the Intermediate section, there were two paintings in this style, Roscoea humeana by Stephen Shelley, and a Sempervivum by Rosemary Walker, which I failed to photograph (I was interrupted).  The Roscoea has the background included, but the class does not require this, and it detracts from the main subject, as it is hard to separate the two.

Botanically Accurate Studies of Alpine Plants

The third main group of painting classes is ‘botanically accurate studies’.  Caroline Jackson-Houlston’s Iris reticulata ‘Frozen Planet’ is a beautifully accurate and scaled rendition of the plant.

In the Intermediate section, Stephen Shelley exhibited a painting of Cyclamen cyprium ‘Galaxy’.  This does not achieve the level of accuracy required in all areas, though some of the leaves are painted beautifully.

Iris reticulata 'Frozen Planet' botanical illustration showcasing detailed drawings of the plant's flowers, bulbs, and growth stages, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts.
Watercolor illustration of Cyclamen cyprium galaxy with distinctive leaves and delicate flowers, suitable for alpine plant enthusiasts and gardeners. Perfect for depicting alpine garden species.

Pictures in Colour of Alpine Plants

Also in the Intermediate section, there is a class for three pictures of alpine plants, in any of the styles described above.  Here, Stephen Shelley entered three studies of flowers from Narcissus, Erythronium and Primula.  These do not really satisfy any of the styles, and would be better as close-ups of the flower or other parts of the plant.  Nevertheless, Stephen won the Artistic Award for the Artistic Intermediate Section aggregate.

Daffodils and early spring flowers illustrated with yellow and white blooms, ideal for alpine garden, gardening, and plant enthusiasts.
Primula, Fritillaria, and other alpine flowers illustration, ideal for Alpine Garden Society plant gardening and conservation newsletters.
Brightly coloured alpine flowers illustration, showcasing delicate blooms and foliage from the Alpine Garden Society collection, ideal for enthusiasts of mountain plants and alpine gardening.

Pictures of the Flower or Other Parts of an Alpine Plant

By contrast, in the class for parts of a plant, Stephen entered three pictures of which only one could really be considered a picture of part of the plant.  The two Cyclamen (perhaps with the Cyclamen cyprium ‘Galaxy’ discussed above) would make a better entry as portraits of alpine plants showing characteristic habit, in class 222 or 270.

Violet cyclamen Hederaefolium with large green variegated leaves and pinkish-purple flowers, highlighting alpine plant species and gardening importance.
Pink cyclamen flowers with green leaves and curling stems, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Bright orange Primula florindae flowers with white accents, illustrated in a botanical style. Perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and collectors of rare plant species.

In the Intermediate section, new exhibitor Sandra Clement entered an attractive painting in oils of the flower of Ophrys ariadne.  In the same class, Rosemary Walker entered a painting of Aquilegia alpina.

Vivid illustration of a rare and exotic orchid with bright purple and pink petals, showcasing unique flowering patterns, set against a lush green background, perfect for nature and botany enthusiasts.
Alpine Garden Society-inspired watercolor painting of a purple Aquilegia alpina flower surrounded by green foliage, showcasing alpine plants and garden art.

Pictures of Alpine Plants in a Creative Style

The final classes for paintings are described as ‘in a creative style’.  Lesley Travis entered a lovely painting of Cypripedium calceolus, in habitat, glowing with spring sunshine.

In competition, Sandra Clements entered a rendering of Galanthus ‘Trymposter’, described as an ‘enhanced sunograph’.  A sunograph is a pseudo-photographic technique of placing the subject on light-sensitive paper or cloth, and then exposing it to sunlight.  When rinsed, an image in white and blue is produced, which the artist has then enhanced by drawing in the details of the flowers.

Boldly coloured illustration of Cypripedium calceolus, the lady's slipper orchid, showcasing intricate floral details and vibrant green foliage, displayed at an Alpine Garden Society event.
Galanthus trymopter enhanced sunograph featuring snowdrop flowers against a blue background, showcasing botanical art and garden illustration for alpine plant enthusiasts and gardening experts.

Monochrome Drawings of Alpine Plants

Finally, we have the classes for monochrome drawings, in pencil or ink.  Judges have always tended to prefer ink over pencil, for its contrast and drama.

In the Open section Stephen Shelley entered this drawing of Cyclamen graecum.  Although it does not really quite have the level of precision expected in this section, the drawing had good composition, and a sense of style and movement, with the twisted petals of the flowers well captured.

Cyclamen graecum flowering plant illustration for Alpine Garden Society, showcasing alpine and rock garden plants with detailed botanical artwork for plant enthusiasts and horticulturists.

In the Intermediate section, three exhibitors entered drawings:

  • Lesley Travis with a pencil drawing of Cyclamen cyprium
  • Rosemary Walker with Eryngium alpinum
  • Stephen Shelley, with a study of Fritillaria

Of the three, the Fritillaria study stands out.  Although it is not strictly to the class definition (monochrome drawing of an alpine plant), this was a pleasing composition and captured a 3D feeling to the individual flowers, where the other two drawing feel a little flat, though the Cyclamen leaves in particular are lovely.

Cyclamen coum illustration, botanical drawing by L. Trais, showing detailed leaves, flowers, and roots, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts and botanical art collections.
Detailed drawing of an alpine plant, Enziania alpina, with needle-like leaves and a textured seed head, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Fritillaria plant illustrations showcasing various species including Fritillaria lusitanica, Fritillaria drenovski, and Fritillaria epirota, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and botanical collectors.

Six pans of Rock Plants

Time now to return to the plants.  The show had two six pan classes to photograph – I wanted to do so before the show opened.  Bob and Rannveig Wallis won both, collecting the AGS Medal for six small pans of rock plants, and the Roger Smith Cup for six pans of rock plants grown from seed.  These two wins helped them capture the Mooney Cup for the Open section aggregate.

I intended to photograph the Corydalis aitchisonii from the first collection, but forgot.  However, you should see the two daffodils from the collection grown from seed later on.

small six pan rock plants exhibited by Bob & Rannveig Wallis
Colorful collection of potted alpine plants and flowers displayed at Alpine Garden Society event in terracotta pots.

Crocus aerius

As always, I wanted to photograph the best of the Crocus early on whilst they were still in prime condition.  I thought this C. aerius from Bob and Rannveig Wallis was lovely.  Other exhibitors say it is difficult to grow and maintain, but Bob and Rannveig make it look easy.

Alpine crocus flowers blooming in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant purple and yellow colours, ideal for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts and rock garden plant lovers.
Bulb, crocus, early spring flower in pot, delicate purple petals, vibrant yellow and orange stamens, alpine garden plant, native to mountainous regions, RHS Award of Garden Merit, perfect for rock gardens and borders, easy to grow, attracts pollinators.

Crocus vernus subsp. albiflorus

Crocus vernus subsp. albiflorus is a small flowered taxon found in the Alps, which includes purple as well as white-flowered plants. Nearly all the pans we see at shows are of small white forms.  So it was a pleasure to see and photograph this lilac form exhibited by John Dixon.  In 2010, I photographed a very similar pan, also exhibited by John; I wonder if they are the same material.

Violet crocus flowers blooming in a terracotta pot, popular for alpine and rock garden planting, showcasing early spring bloom, native to mountainous regions, perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Violet crocus flowers in full bloom, vibrant yellow stamens, detail shot, growing in gravel substrate, representing early spring flowering and popular Alpine plants.

Eranthis x. tubergenii ‘Guinea Gold’

After failing with it last week at Newport, I wanted to catch Don Peace’s winter aconite (not the same plant) before the petals curled.

Yellow Alpine plants in a terracotta pot, perfect for alpine gardening collections.
Yellow alpine garden flower, bright yellow petals, central green stigma, surrounded by green leaves, outdoor plant, native to mountainous regions, vibrant bloom, well-lit close-up, ideal for alpine plant enthusiasts and garden design, part of the Alpine Garden Society collection.

Iris kolpakowskiana

Bob and Rannveig Wallis received a Certificate of Merit for this beautiful pan of Iris.

Purple iris flowers in a terracotta pot, perfect for alpine garden displays, showcasing vibrant colours and hardy plant species suitable for mountain gardens.
Purple iris flowers blooming in a terracotta pot, alpine garden society, vibrant garden plants, garden enthusiasts, national plant society UK.
Violet iris flower in terracotta pot, close-up with grey background.

Iris svetlanae

In the same three-pan exhibit, Bob and Rannveig included the lovely yellow Iris svetlanae.  I well remember the wonderful pan of this which Ivor Betteridge used to exhibit.

Yellow irises flowering in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant colour and lush green foliage, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Yellow Iris flower in full bloom, cultivated by Alpine Garden Society, showcasing vibrant colour and delicate petals, potted and grown for alpine gardening enthusiasts.

Iris winogradowii

Another Certificate of Merit went to Don Peace for this iris.  It was beautifully grown, but personally I prefer more space between the bulbs so I can see the individual flowers, as in this larger pan from John Dixon.

Bright yellow flowering Iris in a terracotta pot with small gravel, showcasing alpine garden plants, suitable for rock gardens or container planting. Ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Yellow iris flowers in a terracotta pot, alpine garden society, rare mountain flowering plants, alpine gardening, garden enthusiasts, rock garden plants, perennial flowers for rock gardens, plant conservation, horticulture beauty, botanical collection.
Yellow Sadler's Iris blooming in a terracotta pot with gravel substrate, showcasing alpine gardening and hardy plant cultivation.

Colchicum hungaricum

Diane Clement brought this charming little plant.

White alpine flowers in a terracotta pot, ideal for alpine gardens and rockeries, showcasing the beauty of snowdrops and mountain flora, perfect for rock garden enthusiasts.
White and pale purple blooming flowers of a terrestrial plant in an orange pot, with green foliage and small pebbles, showcasing alpine garden plants and floral gardening.

Pleione ‘Riah Shan’

I photographed Don Peace’s small pan of this last week; here is a larger one from Steve Clements.  The flowers are all neatly arranged and facing forward; I suspect the pseudo-bulbs have been stored all winter, and were replanted, with buds carefully oriented, a few days before the show.

Purple orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, alpine garden society, winter flowering orchids, hardy plants for alpine gardens, garden plant collections, botanical gardening, conservation of alpine flora.

Pleione ‘Glacier Peak’ x. humilis

Last year, I struggled to find a good angle to photograph this Pleione from John Dixon; I struggled again at Pershore.

Exotic flowering cactus plant in a terracotta pot, showcasing unique blossoms perfect for alpine gardens and succulent enthusiasts.
Exotic orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing unique and vibrant blossoms for alpine gardening enthusiasts.
Exquisite orchid flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing delicate white petals with striking red markings, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts.

Corydalis popovii

Although the flowers of Corydalis do not usually collapse in the heat of the hall, the stems do extend, so they are another genus I target early on.  Don Peace received a Certificate of Merit for this pan of C. popovii.

Corydalis popovii exhibited by Don Peace
Dark red and white alpine orchid with green leaves, close-up, showcasing intricate flower details for alpine gardening enthusiasts, ideal for the Alpine Garden Society website.

Corydalis kusnetzovii ‘Pale Form’

I always love the neatness of this little Corydalis from Don Peace.

White flowering spring bulb, Corydalis yanhusuo in terracotta pot for alpine gardening, native to China, showcasing delicate, fragrant blossoms ideal for rock gardens and shade gardens.
Delicate white and pink Alpine germander flowers with lush green foliage, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts and plant collectors. Perfect example of hardy plants suitable for mountainous environments.

Corydalis sewerzowii

Another first for Bob and Rannveig Wallis.

Corydalis sewerzowii exhibited by Bob & Rannveig Wallis
Yellow curled alpine flowers with green leaves, showcasing rare Himalayan plants for alpine garden enthusiasts. Perfect for rock gardens and mountain plant collections.
Yellow alpine flower with twisted petals, showcasing alpine gardening beauty.

Daubenya aurea

George Elder was delighted to be able to exhibit both yellow and red forms of the South African bulb Daubenya aurea, both grown from seed in 2016.

Vivid yellow Alpine flowers blooming in a garden setting, surrounded by gravel and lush green leaves, showcasing alpine gardening and plant cultivation.
Yellow alpine flower blooming in a garden setting with green foliage and gravel, ideal for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Red flowering plant with broad green leaves in a terracotta pot, suitable for alpine and rock gardens, with vibrant blooms and lush foliage.
Red alpine flower with vibrant petals and yellow stamens surrounded by glossy green leaves, ideal for alpine garden cultivation and expert gardening enthusiasts.

Fritillaria gibbosa

I have photographed this plant so many times over the years, but I can’t resist doing so.  Bob and Rannveig Wallis present them beautifully.

Pink and green alpine flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing unique mountain garden plants with delicate petals and vibrant colours, perfect for rock gardens and alpine plant collections.
Pink alpine flower with detailed petals and stamens, representing rare mountain flora for alpine gardening enthusiasts. Suitable for Alpine Garden Society collections and plant conservation projects.

Fritillaria uva-vulpis ‘Kew form’

The other fritillary I photographed at the show was this one, exhibited by George Elder.  The markings in the flowers always make intriguing photos.

Yellow and purple alpine flowers with green foliage against a neutral background, representing the beauty of alpine garden plants and orchids from the Alpine Garden Society.
Yellow striped orchid flower with green leaves, close-up of alpine garden plant, native to mountainous regions, highlighting alpine flora diversity and horticultural beauty.
Violet and yellow orchid flowers with striped petals on tall green stems, part of the Alpine Garden Society's collection of succulent and alpine plants.

Galanthus ‘E. A. Bowles’

Diane Clement exhibited this snowdrop. Perhaps not as good as it was last year, but still a fine pan.

Snowdrops flowering plant in a garden pot, early spring bloom, delicate white petals, rooted in soil, lush green leaves, symbol of renewal, traditional for alpine gardens, ideal for shade gardens, part of Alpine Garden Society collections, horticulture, gardening enthusiasts, flower display, natural beauty, seasonal flowering plant.
White snowdrop flower blooming in early spring, alpine garden society plant, delicate botanical image, native to Europe, early flowering perennial, fresh green foliage, garden plant photography, specialist plant society, bulbous flowering plant, conservation and cultivation of alpine plants.

Galanthus ‘Galadriel’

In the Intermediate section, Alistair Forsyth exhibited this one.

White snowdrop flowers blooming in a terracotta pot, showcasing early spring floriculture, perfect for alpine and rock garden planting.
Delicate snowdrop flowers (Galanthus nivalis) showcasing early spring bloom, part of alpine garden collections, perfect for enthusiasts of alpine plants and garden decor.

Muscari inconstrictum ‘Levant form’

Last week at Newport, I photographed the Cypriot form of Muscari inconstrictum (first two pictures).  Here Bob and Rannveig exhibited the startling colour of the Levant form (pictures 3 and 4).  This has a completely different habit and flower from the Cypriot form; are they really the same species ?

Purple alpine flower cluster in a terracotta pot, with slender green leaves and rocky soil, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts seeking hardy plants.
Purple alpine flowers, close-up of vibrant blue and purple rock garden blooms at Alpine Garden Society, showcasing hardy plants for alpine gardens, with green foliage background, ideal for rock gardening enthusiasts.
Purple alpine flowers with slender green leaves in a garden pot, showcasing alpine gardening and wildflower cultivation for alpine garden enthusiasts.
Blue-purple muscari flowers, alpine garden society, early spring blooming, garden plants, perennial, vibrant colour, flower bulb, botanical garden, UK garden design, hardy plants.

Narcissus ‘Arctic Bells’

First-time exhibitor Louise Nicholls won a first in the Novice section for this neat little pan of Narcissus ‘Arctic Bells’.

Yellow flowering alpine plant in a terracotta pot with long slender green leaves, suitable for rock gardens and alpine collections.
Bright yellow alpine flower with delicate petals and prominent stamens, showcasing the beauty of mountain flora at the Alpine Garden Society.

Narcissus bulbocodium ex Morocco

A neat primrose yellow hoop petticoat daffodil from Bob Worsley.

Yellow alpine flowers in a terracotta pot with green foliage, perfect for alpine garden enthusiasts.

Narcissus cantabricus x. triandrus

The Narcissus triandrus hybrids have started to flower.  This one was at the back of Bob and Rannveig’s entry for six pans grown from seed.

Yellow daffodil flowers blooming in a pot, part of an alpine garden display, showcasing early spring flowering plants for rock gardens and containers.
Yellow daffodil flower blooming against a dark grey background, showcasing alpine gardening and bulb planting. Perfect for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts and alpine flower photography.

Narcissus ‘Dinah Rose’

George Elder showed a fine pan of Narcissus ‘Dinah Rose’, raised originally by Jim Archibald.

Bright yellow flowering daffodils in a terracotta pot against a plain grey background. Perfect for alpine and garden enthusiast displays, showcasing the beauty of springtime blooms.
Yellow daffodil flowers, alpine plant, blooming in spring at Alpine Garden Society.

Narcissus x. incurvicervicus

Diane Clement exhibited this naturally occurring sterile hybrid between Narcissus fernandesii and N. triandrus subsp. pallidulus.

Yellow alpine flowers in a red pot with green foliage, suitable for Alpine Garden Society collections and rock gardens.
Yellow daffodils blooming in a garden, showcasing vibrant spring flowers, perfect for gardeners and bulb enthusiasts.

Narcissus moschatus ‘Nadder Moon’

In the large pan section, Ian Robertson had a fine large pan of Narcissus moschatus ‘Nadder Moon’.

Yellow Daffodils in full bloom, showcasing vibrant springtime garden flowers perfect for alpine rock gardens and outdoor plant collections.
Bright yellow daffodils in full bloom showcasing alpine garden flowers on a dark background. Perfect for alpine gardening, flower enthusiasts, and spring landscaping.

Narcissus ‘Snow Baby’

Steve Clements exhibited this as Narcissus ‘New Baby’, but surely there has been some confusion.  ‘New Baby’ is a jonquil hybrid, whereas this matches the pans of Narcissus ‘Snow Baby’ elsewhere in the hall.

Daffodil flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing the beauty of alpine garden plants and spring bloomers; ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts and daffodil collectors.

Narcissus ‘Candlepower’

For me, the most refined of the established miniature trumpet daffodils is ‘Candlepower’, here exhibited by Bob and Rannveig Wallis.

Yellow daffodils in a terracotta pot, alpine garden society, hardy garden plants, spring blooming flowers, flower gardening inspiration, plant enthusiasts, UK garden plants, daffodil bulbs in container, botanical flora, outdoor gardening ideas.
Spring-flowering daffodil blossom, showcasing the delicate yellow and white petals typical of alpine garden plants, ideal for rock gardens and mountainous landscapes.

Narcissus asturiensis

The best pan of daffodils in the hall was this fabulous exhibit from Alistair Forsyth in the Intermediate section.  It won the Susan Clements Memorial Trophy for the Best plant in the Novice or Intermediate sections, and the Audrey Bartholomew Memorial Award for the Best bulbous plant.  For me, it was the best plant in the show.  Alistair also won the Tomlinson Tankard for the Intermediate section aggregate, and his Silver Medal.  I imagine he had a good evening.

Narcissus asturiensis exhibited by Alistair Forsyth
Yellow daffodil flowers in a terracotta pot, ideal for alpine garden planting and spring garden displays.
Yellow daffodils in a terracotta pot, blooming beautifully; perfect for alpine gardening and springtime displays.

Narcissus asturiensis x. alpestris

However, my favourite plant – the one I most wanted to take home – was this little hybrid from Bob and Rannveig’s exhibit of six pans grown from seed.  Though in some ways the hybrid between dwarf and giant seems fantastical – imagine if the parents were dogs and not flowers…  Who would expect to get such beauty from such a liaison ?

Daffodil flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing early spring bloom in a garden setting.
White daffodil flower in full bloom, belonging to the Alpine Garden Society collection, showcasing early spring bloom, delicate petals, and natural beauty perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts in UK gardens.
Fringed white daffodil flower, alpine garden society plant, elegant and delicate bloom, perfect for rock gardens and alpine displays, showcasing rare floral elegance.

Cyclamen persicum forma puniceum

Ian Robertson won firsts for some fine pans of Cyclamen.  This is his large pan exhibit for three Cyclamen.  From that exhibit, I selected this lovely plant to photograph.

Vibrant cyclamen plants in terracotta pots showcasing spectacular flowering varieties at the Alpine Garden Society plant exhibition.
Cyclamen with vibrant pink flowers and variegated green leaves, showcase of garden plant varieties for alpine and shade gardens.
Vibrant pink Cyclamen flowers in full bloom at the Alpine Garden Society display, showcasing unique alpine plants and cultivated garden specimens.

Cyclamen coum

This dark form of Cyclamen coum won a Certificate of Merit for Ian Robertson.

Cyclamen coum exhibited by Ian Robertson
Vivid pink cyclamen flowers with lush green variegated leaves, ideal for alpine gardening or shade gardens, showcasing the beauty of flowering plants for Alpine Garden Society members.

Dionysia afghanica GW/H1308

Again, it was mainly the small pans of Dionysia which captured my interest.  Here are two very different specimens of the same clone of Dionysia afghanica; the one on the left was exhibited by John Dixon, the one on the right by Paul and Gill Ranson.

Dionysa afghanica flowering in terracotta pots, alpine garden plant, rare rock garden succulent, high-altitude flowering plant, GEM.
Gillyflower petunia in terracotta pot on gravel garden bed, showcasing alpine gardening and hardy plant varieties.
Violet-purple flowering plant in a terracotta pot surrounded by multicoloured small pebbles, suitable for alpine gardens and rockeries.

Dionysia ‘Ewesley Legacy’

Paul and Gill Ranson won a Certificate of Merit for this pan of Dionysia ‘Ewesley Legacy’.

Dionysia hybrid Ewesley Legacy exhibited by Paul & Gill Ranson
Violet primula flowers in full bloom, showcasing vibrant colour and delicate petals, perfect for alpine gardening and rockeries.

Primula ‘Arduaine’

The Primula allionii were not yet at their best, and I contented myself with this pan of Primula ‘Arduaine’ from Don Peace.

Primula plants in a terracotta pot with moss, showcasing vibrant purple flowers and textured green foliage, perfect for alpine gardening and rockery displays.
Violet primroses in bloom, perfect for alpine gardens and rockeries, showcasing colourful, hardy plants ideal for British climate.

Hepatica japonica ‘ex Blue Sandan’

Mike Acton won the Henry Hammer Cup for the Novice section aggregate.  His plants included this pretty Hepatica japonica seedling.

Hepatica japonica ex Blue Sandan exhibited by Mike Acton
Violet blue alpine flowers with green stamens, close-up shot highlighting intricate petal patterns and garden growth.

Hepatica japonica

In the Intermediate section, Lesley Travis also exhibited some nice forms of Hepatica japonica.

Violet primula flowers in a terracotta pot, perfect for alpine gardens and rockeries, showcasing the beauty of alpine flora.
Primula marginata flowering plant in terracotta pot, showcasing alpine garden flora for indoor and outdoor gardening enthusiasts.
Vivid purple Alpine flowers from the Alpine Garden Society showcasing native and rock garden plants. Perfect for alpine gardening enthusiasts and plant collectors.
Vivid purple and white striped Edelweiss flowers from Alpine Garden Society, showcasing alpine plant varieties and gardening tips. Perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts and garden hobbyists.

Hepatica japonica ‘Hoho Beni’

In the Open section the plants tend to be older and larger; this Japanese cultivar belonged to Bob Worsley.

Pink vibrant miniature flowers in a ceramic pot, showcasing alpine garden plants for garden enthusiasts.
Bright pink alpine flowers with green foliage, showcasing vibrant blossoms suitable for gardens and rockeries, representative of the Alpine Garden Society.

Hepatica japonica ‘Utyuu’

This plant also belong to Bob.  I’m pretty sure it is the cultivar ‘Utyuu’, which is familiar from recent years, though it wasn’t labelled as such.  Perhaps it needed to be a day or two further out.

Violet alpine flowers in a terracotta pot, showcasing vibrant purple blooms perfect for alpine gardens and rockeries.
Purple spring flowers, Alpine Garden Society, vibrant woodland flora, garden plant enthusiasts, early bloom climbers, native wildflowers, beautiful alpine garden plants, seasonal flower display, garden biodiversity, specialised rock garden plants.

Hepatica japonica forma magna

The judges preferred the pristine flowers of this plant from Don Peace, which was awarded a Certificate of Merit.

White alpine rock garden flowers in terracotta pot, perfect for alpine plant enthusiasts, showcasing the beauty of the Alpine Garden Society’s collection.
Vivid close-up of white alpine flowers with purple tips, showcasing their delicate petals and vibrant centers, ideal for alpine gardening enthusiasts and plant collectors interested in alpine garden plants.

Gymnospermium altaicum

So what of the Farrer medal for the Best Plant in the show ?  That went to this fine large specimen of Gymnospermium altaicum from Vic and Janet Aspland, together with the Ashwood Trophy for the best plant in a 19cm pot.

Gymnospermium altaicum exhibited by Vic & Janet Aspland
Yellow alpine flowers in terracotta pot, showcasing hardy garden plants suitable for mountain and rocky terrains. Perfect for Alpine Garden Society enthusiasts.
Bright yellow flowers of the alpine garden plant with green foliage, perfect for rock gardens and alpine displays. Showcasing vibrant, hardy blooms ideal for mountain gardening enthusiasts.
Yellow alpine garden flowers close-up photo.
Yellow Alpine Saxifrage flowering plant in a garden pot, showcasing vibrant yellow blooms and green foliage, ideal for alpine gardener enthusiasts and rock garden landscapes.

All too soon, my photography time was gone, and I was retracing my steps through the Oxfordshire villages to collect Helen who was singing in a concert in Oxford. Now my week has gone too, and before long I will be off to Theydon Bois.

Read previous entries at The Photographers Diary

All news