Viburnum tinus – Standards (Laurustinus)

Bobbles of dense, glossy, deep green leaves held aloft on slender trunks. Lovely. Viburnum tinus grows quite rapidly and responds happily to being clipped, as these have been. A classic - some would say the classic - shape for a traditional setting, you cannot beat a bobble for instant classy swank. The hardiness of Viburnum tinus makes them a superb alternative to Bay, Laurus nobilis , which can sulk and look tatty in cold pockets or shadier spots. Plant these instead. They have gorgeous flowers in late winter to early spring, so you can enjoy their fragrance at a time of year where there isn’t much. You might want a couple planted handily by your front door: they can greet you home as you combat-roll inside to escape the weather, and any visitors will be dead impressed at how swanky your gaff looks.