Spring Catalogue 2013 - Bowden Hostas

By Appointment to 

HRH The Prince of Wales 

Hostas Cultivation 

Bowden Hostas 

Sticklepath 

Chelsea Gold Medal Winners 

2005 - 2012 

72 RHS Gold Medals 

Ber Plants - Ber Gardens 

Incorporating 

Rickards Hardy Ferns 

& 

The Outdoor Space Company 

SPRING CATALOGUE 2013 


Sticklepath, Okehampton 

Devon, EX20 2NL 

Tel: 01837 840989 (24 hour answerphone) 

email: sales@bowdenhostas.com 

www.bowdenhostas.com

JANUARY 2013 

It has been a tremendous year, despite the growing difficulties of the unusual weather. We were thrilled 

in September 2011 to acquire the most prestigious fern nursery Rickards Hardy Ferns and with it the 

expertise of fern legends Martin Rickard and Dick Hayward. We promised a fantastic fern display at 

Chelsea as well as hostas, and did not disappoint, gaining gold medals for both stands. Two gold medals 

at the world’s most famous flower show is quite something and testimony to the quality of people we 

have working with us. My thanks to them all. 

In August of 2012 we acquired the garden design and landscape company the Outdoor Space Company 

and so now have the ability to build gardens throughout the UK. David Howard, former head gardener 

to the Prince of Wales continues to head up this division. 

Through the year, we also delivered RHS gold medals at Hampton Court, Tatton Park, BBC Gardeners’ 

World and Gardening Scotland. A grand total of 8 for the year. In addition, mail order sales continue to 

increase each year with many of you still enjoying receiving our legendary print catalogue, combining the 

best of the traditional with the pick of the new. We have sold many tree ferns and built gardens of note 

for the first time this year. 

As 2013 arrives, we are planning a consolidation year, continuing to deliver the Bowden excellence. We 

aim to fast-track our deliveries, invest in the web site and our technical support. We continue to offer 

our 6 month plant guarantee with no questions asked. I am pleased to publicise my personal telephone 

number should you ever wish to get in touch. 

This year, we have some wonderful new hostas, a superb selection of hardy and tender ferns and grasses 

and bamboos that will grace any garden. By ordering early, you gain the best choice of plants and your 

name will be placed into the draw for the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show tickets. 

We are looking forward to a glorious year, full of wonderful plants, gold medals and great service. We 

believe this is what you want, we will do our very best to deliver. 

Tim and Ruth Penrose 

Cover images (clockwise): Hosta ‘Great Escape’ page 9, Fern Polystichum setiferum ‘Bevis’ page 59, Grass Carex grayi ‘Saladin’ page 66, 

Bamboo Phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘Aureocaulis’ page 73 & Tree fern Cyathea medullaris Page 62. 

SPECIAL OFFERS 

Any order received by 1st March will go into our prize draw for 2 Hampton Court Tickets 

Any order of £500 and over will receive a copy of The New Encyclopedia of Hostas 

Any order of £1,000 and over will receive a brand new Kindle 

We have knowledgeable specialists, 

like Peter, answering the telephone. 

How to Order 

Post Bowden Hostas 

Sticklepath 

Okehampton 

Devon 

EX20 2NL 

Nursery Visit us at Sticklepath 

Opening times are on 

page 80 

Telephone 01837 840989 

website www.bowdenhostas.com 

e mail sales@bowdenhostas.com 

www.bowdenhostas.com 2 order line: 01837 840989

FIVE STUNNING PLANTS WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND... 

SEE PAGE 68 

h12" s9" £10 

Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ 

Small ornamental grass, which forms cascading hummocks of vividly 

striped bright yellow and green foliage. The narrow leaves keep their 

colour throughout the season. 

SEE PAGE 22 

SEE PAGE 74 

R h15" £25 

Phyllostachys nigra 

We have managed a better picture for this year. This picture really 

does show its dark, ebony like culms which will come through on 

maturity, you will need to be a little bit patient! It’s a real speciality. 

SEE PAGE 53 

1 E 2 h12" £7 

Dryopteris erythrosora ‘Brilliance’ 

Japanese Wood Fern Japan 

Eye catching fern that provides colourful ground cover with pink 

fiddleheads that turn coppery orange as they unfurl. A best seller last year. 

SEE PAGE 62 

May 

Hosta ‘May’ is the golden form of 

that ever popular hosta ‘June’. It is 

bright golden, turning to chartreuse 

during the summer months. Happy 

in some sun, the higher light level 

will draw out the rich gold colour. 

Originated by Hans Hansen in tissue 

culture and introduced by Shady 

Oaks Nursery of Minnesota in 1999, 

it deserves to be widely grown. The 

flowers in late summer are typical 

tardiana smoky lilac flowers. ‘May’ 

will add a splash of sunshine to 

enrich your border. 

www.bowdenhostas.com 3 order line: 01837 840989 

S-M 

£8 

30cm Trunk 

£275 

5 litres 

£45 

40cm Trunk 

£395 

15cm Trunk 

£125 

50cm Trunk 

£540 

Cyathea dealbata 

The national symbol of New Zealand, the Silver Tree Fern or Ponga. 

The undersides of fronds are silver. Quite simply stunning.

ABOUT HOSTAS 

Hostas are wonderful plants – their buds emerge in the spring to provide new shoots whose 

growth can be seen day by day and then the leaves unfurl to give luxuriant foliage wherever they 

are situated. Hostas are adaptable too, giving an eye-catching focal point, brightness in a dull spot, 

or a calming feel to a busy border. 

Hardy perennials, coming up year after year with fresh new leaves each spring then going dormant 

in the autumn, hostas are easy to grow and maintain. They are tolerant of shade, happy in places 

where many other plants would not be, but will thrive in most situations (though not at their best 

in dry soil with full sun all day). 

From leaves as small as a teaspoon up to those larger than a dinner plate, from wide flat mounds 

to upright or cascading formations, hostas provide such a range of size and shape. Deep blues to 

silvers, darkest shiny greens to bright yellows, single solid hue to the myriad of variegations, the 

choice of leaf colour is almost overwhelming. 

Flowers 

Grown predominantly for their outstanding foliage, all hostas flower, with colours ranging from 

deep purple through to white, some spectacularly, a number with fragrant flowers. The flowers 

are sometimes held on distinctively coloured or particularly tall scapes and can be an attraction 

in themselves. Some people prefer to cut off the flowers when they appear in order to keep the 

leaves looking good for longer. Others enjoy their hostas blooming. 

We have identified fragrant-flowered plants in the icons throughout our catalogue. The description 

alongside each hosta ends with the flower colour in bold type. 

Sizes 

The size of hosta plant varies not only with age, but also with soil and climatic conditions. The 

following generally agreed classification groups hostas according to the size of their leaves and 

mound height when the hosta is fully grown in good soil and good conditions: 

Height Leaf Size 

Inches Centimetres Square Inches Square Centimetres 

Miniature 28 >71 >145 >900 

In our icons we have abbreviated them as follows: 

Min Miniature S Small M M Medium L 

Large G Giant 

Icons 

The icons with each hosta picture denote the following: 

S 

Size Happy in Sun NEW 

New Fragrant Flower 

Speciality Hostas These are available in smaller numbers than the other hostas. Please order early 

to be sure you receive what you wish this year! 

We always send planting and care instructions with our parcels, however for many more tips 

on growing, splitting and dealing with pests, please see our frequently updated website 

www.bowdenhostas.com and our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/user/bowdenhostas 


Slugbusting Collection £45 Postage Free ...Saves £5 

Blue Mammoth George Smith Grand Canyon 

Guardian Angel Great Escape 

and Slugbusters! 

Gift Vouchers 

We are pleased to send gift vouchers to friends or family as presents or thank yous. 

Available in increments of £10 they may be used for orders by phone, by post, at the 

nursery, at shows or on the internet. 

Bowden’s Surprise Collections 

Not sure which hostas to choose? 

Let us select for you. We will ensure that you have a good mix of blues, yellows, greens, 

variegated and plain, and will let you know what size and colour they will be when mature, so 

you can plan your planting to show them to their best advantage. 

10 hostas of our choice, including a free ‘Slugbusters’ 

£40 Postage Free 






How exactly do you send plants out? 

Our mail order team are always at pains to pack plants carefully so as to arrive in the best 

condition. We shake the soil from the hostas, gently wrap the roots to keep the moisture in 

and then enclose in good quality newspaper, each plant clearly labelled. Some hostas we keep 

in the cooler and send out bare root even when hostas in the garden are in full leaf. These 

bareroot hostas will soon come into leaf when planted out. We then box them up and send 

them with Royal Mail in the first class post or, for the larger parcels, with our couriers APC on 

a guaranteed next day service. Larger quantities can be delivered by our hauliers to any part 

of the country either on a lorry or, if access is a bit tricky, on pallets. All of our parcels above 

1.75 kg can be tracked to your door. 

We pack most days from January until the end of October, so if you have a particular 

requirement regarding delivery, then please call us and discuss it - we’re always delighted to 

hear from you. If you wish to send hostas as a present, we are happy to send the parcel directly 

to another address for you. 

What size plants do you sell from this catalogue? 

Mostly from 1litre pots, or slightly smaller for the miniature or small varieties. Occasionally, a 

brand new plant can also be a little small, but we are confident that all plants despatched from 

us will make a good hosta in year 1. We do not send plugs. 

How do you accept orders? 

By post using the order form at the back of the catalogue, by telephone, by e mail, or on line 

through our secure e commerce website designed to be nice and easy with very few clicks. 

What forms of payment do you accept? 

The vast majority of our customers prefer to use credit cards. We accept all major credit and 

debit cards and also paypal. 

We are also happy to receive cheques, and if you are at the nursery, cash of course. 

Our frequently updated website bare root hosta 

Preparing.. ...packing... ...posting 


Min £10 

Pandora’s Box 

An extremely popular mini hosta ever since Shady Oaks Nursery introduced it nearly two decades ago. Kept in a cool and well drained spot, 

preferably a trough or pot rather than the garden, it will become a striking specimen. 

Purple 

Min £6 

Baby Bunting 

The parent of ‘Cherish’, ‘Pandora’s Box’, ‘Hope’ and ‘Cameo’. 

Pale Lavender 

Min £10 

Cherish 

More creamy centred and with a wider margin than ‘Pandora’s Box’. 

Purple 


S £8 

Blue Mouse Ears 

What an appropriate name for such a distinctively shaped hosta whose tightly wrapped round leaves really do resemble a mouse’s ear. A 

sport of ‘Blue Cadet’, the tough, sturdy growth makes this a resilient little hosta which even the least green-fingered can grow. 

Lavender 

NEW S-M £10 

Clown’s Collar 

Thick blue foliage makes a low mound, the edge turning white. 

Pale Lavender 

S £8 

Blue Lollipop 

Again good substance to the leaves, but this time heart shaped. 

Pale Lavender 


M £9 

Catherine 

A regal sport of ‘Halcyon’ with a creamy yellow centre, adding an accent at a strategic point in your garden. As with many ‘Halcyon’ sports it 

is proving very popular and can be relied on year after year. 

Lavender 

NEW S £9 

Pewterware 

Carefully bred to maintain an intense blue throughout the season. 

Lavender 

M £9 

Great Escape 

The very wide, very white margin makes for a showy specimen. 

Lavender 


M £7 

June 

‘June’ makes a superb specimen whether in a container or in the ground. Deep blue leaves with a gorgeously rich central green splash will 

become deeper and darker in shade or remain brighter in more light. Continues to be much in demand. 

Smoky Lilac 

M £5 

Fragrant Blue 

Lightly scented white flowers contrast nicely with the powder blue. 

White 

M £6 

Lacy Belle 

A delightful wave enhances the appearance of this pretty hosta. 

Lavender 


NEW M £12 

Blueberry Muffin 

Semi-upright growth shows off the light mauve petioles as the puckered leaves are held out of the way. Vigorous, with a good blue colour, 

this is a hybrid of the well-loved ‘Frances Williams’. It bears numerous flowers which are long lasting. What more could you ask? 

Lavender 

NEW M £14 

Ripple Effect 

These narrow, intensely wavy and twisting leaves produce an intriguing feature. ‘Ripple Effect’ is a sport of ‘June’ and matures to a low, 

horizontal mound. The leaves are a similar texture to ‘June’, the dark margin much thinner. Certain to attract the attention of your friends. 

Lavender 


M £7 

Aristocrat 

A thick, glaucous blue leaf with a very wide creamy margin. A beautiful combination of colours, needing time to become established. Slightly 

rippled and cupped, it lives up to its name. A sport of ‘Hadspen Blue’ which many are familiar with. 

Lavender Grey 

M 

Cutting Edge 

Claimed to be one of the best rippled hostas, the arching and folding of the leaves allows glimpses of their white undersides, thereby 

accentuating the ruffled edge. This adds a sense of movement to the mound, particularly in a gentle breeze. 

Pale Lavender 


£6

M £9 

Touch of Class 

Stunning colours and more pest resistant than many. This certainly adds a ‘touch of class’ to whatever situation you choose to grow it in. 

Lilac 

M £6 

Canadian Blue 

A dense mound of strong blue tardiana, similar to ‘Halcyon’. 

Pale Lavender 

M £8 

El Niño 

Stunning contrast between the intense blue and bright white. 

Smoky Lilac 


M £8 

First Frost 

A superb medium-sized specimen either for a pot or in the garden. More creamy edges than ‘El Niño’, this was given the name because it 

looks good until the first frost of winter. The American Hosta Growers Association ‘Hosta of the Year’ for 2010. 

Lilac 

M-L £9 

St Paul 

The thick substance of ‘Paul’s Glory’, but with a much wider edge. 

Lavender 

M £5 

Halcyon 

Cannot be surpassed, ‘Halcyon’ remains the favourite blue hosta. 

Smoky Lilac 


M-L 

Andrew 

Wavy and twisted leaves have an extra section of green patterned between the blue and centre. A slowish sport of ‘Blue Mammoth’. 

Pale Lavender 

Kiwi Full Monty 

Add a flourish to your surroundings with this blue ‘Striptease’. It will enhance a bed or look truly magnificent alone in a container. 

Pale Lavender 


M-L 

£10 

£9

M-L £8 

Glory Hallelujah 

The orange edge colouring intensifies as the summer progresses. 

Pale Lavender 

M £5 

Abiqua Drinking Gourd 

Fabulously cupped, rich blue, seersuckered and corrugated hosta. 

White 

Tom Schmid 

Fast growing upright hosta providing a dramatic focus. 

Lavender 

M-L £6 

Paul’s Glory 

Glorious. A gallant centrepiece for any shade planting. 

Pale Lavender 


M-L £6 

M-L £5 

Great Arrival 

The reversed ‘Great Expectations’. Impressive once established. 

Near White 

M-L £8 

Golden Meadows 

Imposing viridescent and wavy sport of sieboldiana ‘Elegans’. 

Near White

NEW L £15 

Forbidden Fruit 

A visual feast! For those familiar with ‘Orange Marmalade’ (itself a sport of ‘Paul’s Glory’), this is the tetraploid version, with four instead of 

two sets of chromosomes, so really tough and with a much wider blue edging around the golden orange centre. 

Lavender 

L £8 

Dream Weaver 

An impressive feature in the border, just a central yellow splash. 

Pale Lavender 

L £6 

Regal Splendor 

Tall and dignified, has equal impact in a pot or among other plants. 

Lavender 


NEW L-G £10 

George Smith 

George Smith MBE, acknowledged internationally as an expert flower arranger, has agreed to launch his hosta ‘George Smith’ with us at the 

Chelsea Flower Show this year. A large growing sport of sieboldiana ‘Elegans’ with central variegation and good pest resistance. 

Near White 

L-G £9 

Blue Hawaii 

The semi upright beautiful blue mound provides a great focal point. 

White 

L-G £8 

American Halo 

Pure white flowers attract attention to this huge specimen. 

White 


G £8 

Earth Angel 

Magnificent sport of ‘Blue Angel’, with a creamy yellow edge. 

Palest Lavender 

Prince of Wales 

An impressive and stately mound of thick blue foliage. 

Lavender Grey 

G £6 

Blue Mammoth 

In the ranks of very large blue hostas, 

this one has to be up with the 

highest of them. 

The leaves are thick and moderately 

corrugated so the slugs and snails 

slide elsewhere to find easier 

pickings! 

The flowers peep over the foliage. 

Well worth finding the space for, 

‘Blue Mammoth’ will provide you 

with a great hosta for your shady 

spot. 

Pale Lavender 


G 

£8 

Blue Umbrellas 

Shiny, pest resistant leaves make a massive statement. 

Near White 

G £6 

L £11 

Guardian Angel 

Keep cool for the misted variegation to last as long as possible. 

Near White

NEW S £12 

Tattle Tails 

Gracefully arching and cascading leaves have a ruffled margin. 

Lavender 

S £5 

Devon Gold 

A Bowden hosta, it will add cheer to any dull nook or cranny. 

Purple 

Twist of Lime 

A charming miniature hosta, ‘Twist of 

Lime’ will bring a spot of freshness 

to a trough or the front of a border 

with its chartreuse centre. 

The bushiness of growth makes it 

ideal for edging as it spreads quickly, 

just like its parent ‘Lemon Lime’. 

It would contrast nicely in colour 

with ‘Lemon Delight’ and ‘Spartan 

Arrow’ or ‘Lime Fizz’. There are 

plenty of purple flowers in mid 

summer. 

Purple 


Min 

£6 

Min £8 

Cracker Crumbs 

Shiny and fast growing, ‘Cracker Crumbs’ will jazz up a small spot. 

Dark Lavender 

Min £4 

Lemon Delight 

Introduced by Bowdens, brighter light brings out the variegation. 

Purple

NEW S-M £10 

Coconut Custard 

There is a waxiness to the frosty yellow leaves in spring, which gives them a rich and creamy look. They are heart shaped, slightly rippled and 

wavy. The petioles are bright purple rather than red. What a combination - it sounds almost good enough to eat! 

Lavender 

S-M £8 

Designer Genes 

Attractive rich red petioles contrast with the bright yellow leaves. 

Lavender on purple red scapes 

NEW S £8 

Mack the Knife 

The unusual orange tinted edge and wide leaf base mark this out. 

Lavender 


S-M £10 

Hanky Panky 

‘Hanky Panky’ has dramatic colour changing through the season with an overall lightening. It is easy to spot as a showy sport of ‘Striptease’ 

Lavender 

S £8 

Tick Tock 

Such a neat mound of thick leaves, this is fantastic for edging. 

Lavender 

S-M £8 

May 

A sturdy gold ‘June’, turning chartreuse. Ideal to enrich the border. 

Smoky Lilac 


S-M £11 

Rainbow’s End 

Dynamic colouring, with the yellow centres becoming more of a creamy white and contrasting vividly with the green. Elegantly arching. 

Pale Lavender on red scapes 

S-M £9 

Tickle Me Pink 

Red tips on these golden yellow leaves make this rather special. 

Lavender on dark red scapes 

NEW S-M £10 

Bedford Rise and Shine 

Very shiny dark green leaves held on red petioles. Fast growing. 

Lavender - Purple 


M 

Dance with Me 

The strong texture to these leaves keeps this hosta looking fabulous and the slugs away. The centre is golden throughout the season. 

Pale Lavender 

M £8 

Fire Island 

With its red stems and flecks right up into the bright yellow leaf, this is an absolute stunner! The shoots are an unbelievably intense yellow. 

Lavender 


£8

NEW M £12 

Yellow Polka Dot Bikini 

A breath-taking show in spring when the edge is bright yellow. It turns apple green later on, with the white strip of ‘Striptease’. 

Pale Lavender 

M £5 

Twilight 

Leathery leaves of a tetraploid hosta. Shiny and pest resistant. 

Lavender 

M £8 

Gypsy Rose 

Dazzling. This catches the eye like a jewel sparkling in the sun. 

Pale Lavender 


M £6 

Captain Kirk 

Wider dark green edged sport of the favourite ‘Gold Standard’. 

Lavender 

NEW M £8 

Twitter 

You may wish to tweet your followers about this one! 

Lavender 

Proud Sentry 

The upright growth of this soldierly 

hosta shows off its red legs (well, 

petioles), particularly in a pot lifted 

up from ground level. 

The arching of the lance shaped 

leaves gives a well-proportioned 

elegance of form also shown to best 

advantage in a container. 

The tubular lavender flowers appear 

in late summer. 

Lavender 


M 

£8 

M £6 

Mama Mia 

Sure to get you singing through the day - good for your lungs. 

Lavender 

M £9 

Paradise Island 

Spectacular! It is sure to steal the limelight and a good grower too. 

Lavender

Orange Marmalade 

Brilliant. The definite orange tint to the leaves is a most unusual colouring in the hosta world. The centres turn gradually whiter. 

Lavender 

Goodness Gracious 

The dramatic piecrust edge is accentuated by the wideness of the yellow band. The flamboyant tetraploid sport of ‘Satisfaction’. 

Lavender 


L 

£9 

NEW M-L £14

NEW L £10 

Grand Canyon 

See the key to this name when you look into the deep throats of the heavily ribbed leaves. The thick texture of its ‘Sum and Substance’ 

parentage ensures it is happy in sun and withstands slugs. Rippled edges, a vase shape and white flowers complete the picture. 

White 

M £6 

Lakeside Cha Cha 

The golden yellow almost gleams on these slightly wavy leaves. 

Pale Lavender 

Fragrant Fire 

Reddish petioles hold the shiny leaves up nice and high. 

Pale Lavender 


L £8

L-G £10 

Liberty 

A real show-stopper. The stunningly wide creamy margin ensures that ‘Liberty’ takes centre stage all through the season, coming up early in 

spring like the narrower edged ‘Sagae’ then looking incredible for months. The American Hosta Growers Association ‘Hosta of the Year’ 2012. 

Lavender 

M-L £8 

Cathedral Windows 

Shiny domed leaves need plenty of moisture for lots of flowers. 

Near White 

Dancing Queen 

Another one to get you singing (and, of course, dancing!). 

Pale Lavender 


L £10

Yellow River 

Invariably majestic, we wouldn’t be without ‘Yellow River’. 

Lavender 

G £6 

L £6 

Daybreak 

A low but wide spreading thick leaved hosta. Slugs not keen. 

Deep Lavender 

Sagae 

Thick, tough, the slugs will turn away from this one! 

Lavender 

L-G £7 

Krossa Regal 

An upright, arching mound bearing 5ft flower stems. 

Lavender 

Gold Standard 

A stately, dependable hosta, brightening to golden yellow. 

Lavender 

Sum And Substance 

In time this becomes one of the largest, toughest hostas. 

Pale Lavender 


L-G £4 

M-L £4 

G £5

NEW G £12 

Hot Air Balloon 

Very large and vigorous shiny hybrid of ‘Sum and Substance’ with particularly deep veins. Slugs will avoid these tough leaves. Happy in sun. 

Pale Lavender 

Titanic 

G £10 

Winter Snow 

L-G £7 

Shiny sport of ‘Sum And Substance’ with a margin turning gold. Strong, with no slugs in sight, adding a flourish to a sunny situation. 

Lavender 

Pale Lavender 


S £6 

Spartan Arrow 

This very wavy, rippled and shiny hosta makes good edging. 

Lavender 

S £10 

Fireworks 

Small but quite remarkable, the stiffly upright leaves are distinctive. 

Lavender 

Dixie Chick 

A decorous addition to a trough 

or collection of small plants. 

The leathery feel to these leaves 

confirms their good substance. 

A strong composition for a 

miniature hosta. The ‘Invincible’ 

parentage is apparent in the 

glossiness and darkness of the 

centre. 

The creamy white margin is wider 

in more mature mounds, containing 

tiny green flecks. 

The purple flowers arrive later 

in the season, like ‘Invincible’. As 

with other small hostas, keep well 

drained. 

Lavender 


NEW 

S 

£7 

Fantasy Island 

Pink scapes add to the delight of this desirable little hosta. 

Lavender on pink scapes 

S £7 

S £4 

Lime Fizz 

The white edge adds a frothy layer to the dark green leaves. 

Purple

Min £10 

Teeny-weeny Bikini 

This enchanting miniature hosta is proving to be very popular. The creamy centre to the foliage draws the eye, standing out best in a suitably 

sized container, and needing to be well drained. Looks charming alongside others such as ‘Lemon Delight’ and ‘Tongue Twister’. 

Purple 

NEW S £10 

Tongue Twister 

Vigorous and rich green, with shiny, rippled and twisty long leaves. 

Lavender 

NEW S-M £10 

Red Alert 

Amazing, with the crimson red going right up into the leaf. Wow! 

Lavender 


M £6 

Minuteman 

Spruce contrast between the dark green centre and white edge. 

Pale Lavender 

M £8 

Allegan Fog 

Distinctive finely flecked, twisty leaves always catch the eye. 

Purple Streaked Lavender 

Vulcan 

To boldly grow where no man has 

grown before, you need ‘Vulcan’ 

along with ‘Captain Kirk’ and, of 

course, ‘Enterprise’. 

A sport of ‘Captain Kirk’ discovered 

by the hosta hybridiser Hans Hansen 

of Minnesota, ‘Vulcan’ has a white 

centre but good substance. 

Lighter yellow jets from the dark 

green margin in towards the middle 

of the slightly domed leaf. 

Pale Lavender 


NEW 

M 

£10 

M £10 

Lemon Juice 

Sharpen up your border with this tetraploid long leafed hosta. 

Lavender 

S-M £6 

Miss Ruby 

The deep reddish purple on the petioles extends up into the blade. 

Lavender on red scapes

NEW M £12 

Glamour 

What panache! The shapely grace of the elongated leaves is emphasized by the narrowness of the creamy centre. Very glamorous. 

Lavender 

M £6 

Devon Green 

If you like the purity of green, choose this glossy Bowden hosta. 

Smoky Lilac 

NEW M £10 

Silk Road 

The wide creamy white border takes up about half of the leaf area. 

Pale Lavender 


M £10 

Ghost Spirit 

This surprising hosta develops a misted green centre which holds its colour best in the cool. No doubting the existence of this one! 

Pale Lavender 

M £7 

Fire and Ice 

Ever popular to create a bright white feature in the garden. 

Pale Lavender 

Patriot 

Brighten up a dull shady corner with the dazzle of white. 

Pale Lavender 


M £6

M £8 

Clifford’s Stingray 

Thick, hearty, dark green leaves with a snazzy white centre. 

Lavender 

M £8 

Marilyn Monroe 

The frilly ruffled edges and white leaf backs attract many fans. 

Lavender on red scapes 

plantaginea 

Famous for its perfume and huge 

flowers, plantaginea is the species 

from China which is the forbear of 

so many fragrant hostas. 

The glossy and wavy bright 

green leaves provide a wonderful 

backdrop to the quite remarkable 

flowers. 

Given plenty of warmth and 

moisture, in late summer you will 

be rewarded with 6" long, tubular, 

pure white flowers which release 

their intense fragrance in the 

evening. Sometimes referred to as 

plantaginea Grandiflora. 

White Fragrant Waxy 


NEW 

M-L 

£7 

Praying Hands 

The name describes its exclusive form so perfectly. 

Lavender 

M £8 

M £7 

Enterprise 

Gentle progression from the white centre out to the green edge. 

Lavender

M £7 

Whirlwind 

Robust, with an unusual greenish white hue and upright essence. 

Pale Lavender 

Empress Wu 

Fast growing and massive. Do you have the space? 

Pale Lavender 

G £12 

Coal Miner 

Graceful and upright in stature. Olga 

Petryszyn who bred ‘Coal Miner’ 

describes the unique colouring of the 

leaves as a dark blue base, which in 

mid season turns a blackish blue, so 

the hosta looks as if it is covered in 

coal dust about to turn to diamond 

dust. 

Off-putting for slugs, and lasting well 

into autumn, this near white flowered 

hosta sounds an essential addition to 

any collection. 

Near White 


L 

£12 

L £4 

Royal Standard 

This one needs warmth and water for its abundant, waxy, flowers. 

White, waxy 

M £9 

Center of Attention 

The very shiny and heavily-substanced leaves demand attention. 

Pale Lavender

G £10 

Jurassic Park 

Vigorous, this will quickly attain dinosaur dimensions! Slugs are put off by the tough leaves which become quite puckered when mature. 

Pale Lavender 

M £8 

Risky Business 

The narrow white centre contrasts starkly with the dark green. 

Lavender 

NEW L £10 

Gone with the Wind 

Undulating and rippling, this will create an awesome specimen. 

Lavender 


Garden Design & Landscaping in conjunction with our new acquisition 

THE OUTDOOR SPACE COMPANY 

We are now able to offer a full garden design and landscape portfolio. We work with the finest and most 

professional people in the country. Small back gardens, large landscaped acres, whatever green area you 

have, we can transform it into a thing of beauty. 

We also offer planting plans and quotes for large numbers of hostas, ferns or grasses - or a combination 

of all three! You can contact us through the Garden Design page on our website, telephone, email, write, 

or visit us at the nursery. Whichever suits you. We aim to offer a very personal and professional service. 

Option 1: Full Garden Design Prior to Landscaping 

Most visits include a full day of consultancy and conversation with yourself, following which you will be 

presented with an individually designed plan and scope of works for your garden, showing the extent of 

work, materials chosen and the finished design. 

This is charged from £350 all inclusive. 

Option 2: Garden Discussion 

Should you not yet be at that stage, we offer a two hour consultancy visit to discuss garden design 

and landscaping ideas and come up with some suggestions and rough outlines to start you off on your 

garden design and landscaping. 

This is charged from £125 all inclusive. 



FERNS 

Ferns are remarkably tolerant of a wide range of situations, but growing in the most suitable conditions 

will give you the most luxuriant growth. Watering is always helpful to get ferns established. 

Most ferns are also very accommodating of soil acidity, but Blechnum, Cryptogramma and some 

Cheilanthes need soil on the acid side of neutral. Ferns very tolerant of lime include Asplenium 

scolopendrium and Polystichum setiferum. 

For most ferns, dappled shade is perfect. As a general rule, try to avoid planting ferns in very windy 

spots, or in sites that are sunny during the early afternoon. Incorporate a little bone meal and leaf 

mould or other organic material to speed root establishment. 

Our ferns come out of either 1 or 2 litre pots (see the icon with each fern) and they are a substantial 

plant to start off with in your garden. As always we say a good plant in year one and a great plant in 

year two. 

Size Of Pot 

Comes out of 1 litre pot Comes out of 2 litre pot 

1 2 

Type Of Fern 

E 

W 

Evergreen. Green all year but leaves may become untidy by spring. 

Wintergreen. Green in mild winter, fronds break easily in winter winds. 

Deciduous. Usually die back in first frost. 

Tender. Not fully hardy. 

Moisture Requirements and Size 

1 

2 

3 

4 

h12" 

Dry. Dryish shade or semi-shade, well drained but not dust dry, usually stony. Water to get established 

and in severe drought. 

Dry/Wet. Moist shade or semi-shade, preferably on the dryish side, a typical shady border, often with 

some trees overhead. 

Wet/Dry. Moist shade or semi-shade, preferably on the wet side. 

Wet Wet! Pondsides or boggy areas. 

Height of mature fern in inches. 

Speciality Ferns These are available in smaller numbers than the other ferns. Please order early to be 

sure you receive what you wish this year! 

Martin Rickard, Chelsea 2012 Gold Medal 

We always send planting and care instructions with 

our parcels. However for a number of instructional 

videos on ferns and how to look after them, and 

many more tips, please see our frequently updated 

website www.bowdenhostas.com 

and our YouTube Channel: 

www.youtube.com/user/bowdenhostas 


Martin Rickard has selected six ferns that come with his strongest possible recommendation. They will 

provide a good all year round interest and are remarkably easy to grow. 

Normally £33 but order the group of 6 for a special price of £28 plus postage and packing. 

Dryopteris affinis ‘Cristata’ (The King) Asplenium scolopendrium ‘Cristatum’ Blechnum penna-marina 

Polystichum polyblepharum Athyrium filix-femina ‘Lady In Red’ Asplenium trichomanes 

We know that our customers are often seeking ferns for special conditions, so if you have any of the 

following areas in your garden, we can recommend ferns that will do well. 

Wet areas 

Matteucias 

Osmundas 

Athyrium niponicum ‘Pictum’ 

Gymnocarpum dryopteris plumosum 

Dryopteris filix-mas ‘Linearis Polydactyla’ 

Dry areas 

Dryopteris affinis ‘Cristata’ (The King) 

Polystichum polyblepharum 

Asplenium trichomanes 

Dryopteris affinis 

Adiantum venustum 

Alpine ferns 

Polystichum setiferum ‘Congestum’ 

Onychium japonicum 

Cheilanthes tomentosa 


Coastal gardens 

Adiantum hispidulum 

Pteris cretica ‘Parkeri’ 

Selaginella moellendorfii 

Arachniodes simplicior ‘variegata’ 



NEW 1 E 3 h8" 

£7 

Adiantum aleuticum ‘Imbricatum’ 

Western Maidenhair Fern North America and Eastern Asia 

A slowly creeping root stock produces thin, wiry stems, topped by the 

most elegant hand shaped leaves. Ideally grown in bright light. 

Adiantum hispidulum 

Australia, New Zealand 

1 E 3 h8-12" £7 

This fern grows in tufts among rocks or from the ground. Young growth 

may have a pinkish tinge before it matures into the dark green foliage. 

NEW 1 E 3 h8" £8 


Himalayan Maidenhair Fern Himalayas 

Adiantum venustum is a prize winner, providing delicately beautiful 

ground cover. New spring growth, briefly tinged salmon rose, comes early. 

Adiantum capillus-veneris 

Black Maidenhair Fern British 

NEW 1 E 3 h12" £7 

This is a very beautiful and delicate fern, but it needs a sheltered site and 

some warmth to show its best. 

Adiantum mairissii 

China 

NEW 2 E 3 h4" £10 

An unusual, delicate and rarely offered fine fern with triangular fronds and 

wedge shaped segments. We have limited numbers available. 

Anemia tomentosa 

Mexico 

NEW 2 2 h8" £10 

Rare, collector’s fern. Sometimes called flowering ferns. Unusually the two 

lowermost pinnae are highly modified to bear the sporangia. 


Arachnoides davalliaeformis 

Asia 

1 E 2 h12" £7 

A gorgeous fern with a touch of the exotic. It has beautiful dark glossy 

fronds. Sold tremendously well last year, despite being a tender fern. 

Arachnoides standishii 

Upside-down Fern Korea 

1 E 2 h12" £7 

A very attractive and elegant fern. Rare. Will do well in a sheltered spot, 

or coastal garden. If you have a small fernery, this is for you. 

Asplenium scolopendrium ‘Cristatum’ 

Harts Tongue Fern British Native 

1 E 2 h15" £6 

Asplenium scolopendrium with the characteristic bright green leathery 

fronds, but on this one the fronds are crested at the ends. 

Arachnoides simplicor ‘variegata’ 

East Indian Holly Fern Japan & China 

1 E 2 h12" £7 

Quite slow growing but decidedly handsome. Prominent yellowish areas 

each side of the midrib. Fronds are glossy, green, stiff triangles. 

Asplenium scolopendrium 

Harts Tongue Fern British Native 

1 E 2 h18-24" £6 

This grows fantastically well in Devon, seen amongst the hedgerows. A 

great fern that deserves a place in any garden. 

1 E 2 h12" 

£6 

Asplenium scolopendrium 

‘Marginatum’ Harts Tongue Fern British Native 

Again the same sword like fronds as Asplenium scolopendrium, but with 

the frilly appearance because of the serrated edge. 


Asplenium trichomanes 

Maidenhair Spleenwort British Native 

1 E 2 h5" £6 

A small rosette forming fern. You see these traditionally growing in a wall or similar crevice and look after themselves well without any interference. They 

don’t need a lot of looking after. 

1 3 h8-12" 

£5 

Athyrium filix-femina Cruciatum group 

Northern Hemisphere and Tropical America 

Most spectacular of cultivars in its magnificent architecture. The pinnae 

criss cross to form little ‘x’s and have crested tips. The queen of green. 

Athyrium filix-femina ‘Frizelliae’ 

Irish Tatting Fern British Native 

2 3 h24" £10 

Long bright green fronds, each resembling a string of beads. Absolutely 

stunning in any garden, curiosity will cause visitors to take a closer look. 


1 4 £5 

Athyrium niponicum ‘Pictum’ 

Japanese Painted Fern Japan 

Triangular silver-grey fronds with reddish purple midribs. An absolute 

picture of beauty and sure to be noticed because of its colour. 

Athyrium filix-femina ‘Lady in Red’ 

USA 

A Lady Fern with green fronds and 

bright red stems. The stem colour 

intensifies after the second winter and 

is enhanced by poor nutrition. 

As with hostas, bright red stems make 

a superb contrast to the green of the 

foliage and it is a must for any fernery 

or woodland spot. 

The plants appear fragile, but are 

surprisingly robust, so are suited to 

open spaces as well as the woodland 

protected areas. 

We sold many of these last year as the 

Lady Fern is always popular, but the 

red stems offer an unusual twist. Make 

sure you reserve your ferns early! 

h12-15" 

Athyrium niponicum pictum 

var. ‘Apple Court’ Japan 

1 3 h12" £7 

‘Apple Court’ is as colourful as ‘Pictum’, but this is the crested form. Bred 

by Diana Grenfell and Roger Grounds at Apple Court Nursery. 

NEW 1 3 h12" £8 

1 3 h12" £8 



var. ‘Burgundy Lace’ Japanese Painted Fern Japan 

var. ‘Pewter Lace’ Pewter lace painted fern Japan 

Superb in shady borders and containers. With silvery purple-bronze Dramatic metallic pewter foliage really stands out. The dark blue green 

fronds, the low-growing clumps are excellent for edging pathways. central rib of each frond fades to silver at the edges. 


1 

3 

h12" 

£5


var. ‘Red Beauty’ Japan 

1 3 h12" £5 

Another form of the popular Japanese Painted Fern this one has an 

enhanced red colouration to complement the silver-grey. 


var. ‘Ursula’s Red’ Japan 

1 3 h12" £8 

Flushes of wine-red down the centre of the fronds contrasts with the 

silver of the broad fronds. Stunning attraction in a carefully chosen planting. 

Athyrium vidalii 

Japan 

1 3 h12" £5 

Shows growth very early in the year, the young fronds are reddish, 

maturing to rich green. Named, unsurprisingly, after Vidal. 


var. ‘Regal Red’ Japan 

NEW 1 3 h18" £7 

Arching fronds of silver with red stems. A superb companion in a border 

planted with green and blue hostas or edging a woodland fern area. 

Athyrium otophorum ‘Okanum’ 

Eared Lady Fern Japan 

1 3 h12-18" £5 

The pale grey green of the fronds brings out the dark purple colour of 

the stems in a gentle beauty which enhances your chosen spot. 

Athyrium x Ghost 

USA 

1 3 h24" £7 

Fronds of light silver grey-green that darken to blue-green in the summer. 

Mixes beautifully with large hostas. 


NEW 1 E 3 h14" £7 

Blechnum braziliensis 

Brazilian Hard Fern Central and South America 

A striking shuttlecock fern, ideal for the conservatory. With crispy croziers 

and fronds, the young fronds are usually the delicious colour of raw steak. 

Blechnum spicant 

Hard Fern or Deer Fern British Native 

1 E 3 h12-18" £6 

Long, narrow, dark green, glossy fronds are simply pinnate and make a 

handsome show. Evergreen with renewed freshness in the spring. 

Blechnum penna-marina 

Chile 

1 E 3 h12" £6 

Small, glossy, creeping fern with bronze tinged young growth. Loves to 

spread itself in moist soil rich in leaf mould. Makes dense ground cover. 

Cheilanthes argentea 

Asia 

1 E 3 h12" £7 

This fern has undersides that are brilliant white. Ideal for a well sheltered, 

well drained rockery, or an alpine house. 

Cheilanthes tomentosa 

South Eastern USA 

A lovely species with grey-green 

fronds that grow erect and have 

cream coloured woolly hairs on the 

underside. 

These are rarely offered. Truly a desert 

fern, it is happy existing in as dry a 

condition as you wish. 

Totally different to any other fern and 

a must have for the fern collector. 

Should be labelled as a tender fern, 

but can be described as half hardy. 

Grown in a protected spot, or a 

woodland clearing it will almost 

certainly survive a winter (providing it 

does not get too wet). Martin Rickard 

tells us that wet kills it, dry will not! 


1 

E 

1 

h9-12" 

£6

Cyrtomium fortunei ‘Clivicola’ 

Japanese Holly Fern Japan 

1 E 2 h15" £6 

Unusually broad leaflets are held on elegantly arching fronds. The mid green colour is held better in more shade, tending to be pale in too much light. 

NEW 1 E 

Cyrtomium macrophyllum 

Large-Leaved Holly Fern Japan 

As the name suggests, the leaflets become very large. They are a paler green than other Holly Ferns. A distinctive fern for the bed. 


2 

h20" 

£10

Doodia Media 

Rasp Fern New Zealand 

Rarely offered is this stunning tropical 

fern. The fronds are brilliant red in 

spring as they emerge, turning green 

as they mature. 

The stalks remain a beautiful red and 

complement the green of the fronds 

perfectly. It may well be fully hardy 

in warmer climates or sheltered 

positions, particularly London and 

Cornwall. 

These, as so many of the specialties 

do, come out of a 2 litre pot. They 

are a fantastic size to start off in 

the garden and they do look very 

handsome. 

We don’t have many and they are 

likely to go quickly, so do call us and 

reserve one! 

1 W 2 h36-48" £5 

1 W 2 h12" £5 


Dryopteris affinis ‘Augustata Cristata’ 

Golden Scaled Male Fern British Native 

British 

The central crown throws out a rosette of long arching fronds which The pinnae are crisped giving a spruce, busy appearance to the fern. It 

start pale but develop to a rich green during the year. 

will be magnificent if given a shady, sheltered spot. 

1 W 2 h24-36" £5 

1 W 2 h24" £5 

Dryopteris affinis ‘Crispa Gracilis’ 

Dryopteris affinis ‘Cristata’ (The King) 

British 

King of the Male Ferns British 

Shuttlecocks of congested fronds and twisted pinnules. A hairy brown Martin Rickard’s love of ferns is followed closely by his love of the music 

midrib gives this fern character. 

of Elvis Presley. I now always refer to this fern as ‘Elvis’. 


NEW 

2 

E 

3 

h20" 

£10

Dryopteris affinis ‘Pinderi’ 

Europe 

1 W 2 h36" £5 

Fronds are narrow, erect and lance shaped. Adaptable and tough, this fern 

flourishes in woodland plantings and gardens. 

Dryopteris championii 

East Asia 

1 W 2 h12" £7 

An attractive fern with evergreen, glossy triangular fronds. Densely 

covered with shiny, red-brown scales. 

NEW 1 W 2 h24" £5 


‘Polydactyla Dadds’ Asia, Himalayas and Europe 

The many fingered male fern is popular with everyone. Fantastically 

robust fern, with tufted and crested fronds. 

Dryopteris crassirhizoma 

Thick Stemmed Wood Fern Japan 

1 2 h12" £5 

Young fronds are yellowish-green and glossy. Beautiful under trees in the 

spring. Starts fronding early in the year. 

Dryopteris cycadina 

East Asia 

Dark green fronds go well with thick, 

black scales on the stems of the 

fronds. Leaves appear fresh and green 

when young, then turn a robust dark 

green later. 

Fronds have long stems and the tips 

look like elephant trunks as they 

unfurl! This fern is often offered as 

Dryopteris atrata, but Martin Rickard 

tells me that his preferred name is 

cycadina. 

If in doubt I always go with the expert. 

Again, a fern that has a very different 

appearance, despite being green (and 

there is nothing wrong with being 

green!). 


1 

W 

2 

h24" 

£5

Dryopteris dilatata ‘Crispa Whiteside’ 

British 

1 W 2 h24" £5 

Another robust fern which will look after itself well, the fronds are much 

more dense and crisped than the species. 

Dryopteris erythrosora 

Autumn Male Fern Japan 

1 E 2 h24" £5 

The glossy fronds emerge pink in spring, turning bronze, then green as 

the season progresses. One of our most popular ferns. 

Dryopteris erythrosora ‘Prolifica’ 

Japan 

1 E 2 h24" £5 

Fronds more finely divided than the species and small bulbils may 

sometimes be produced over the upper surface of the frond. 

Dryopteris dilatata ‘Lepidota Cristata’ 

Northern Europe and Asia 

1 W 2 h24" £5 

This is the crested form of Dryopteris dilatata, with a delicately divided 

filigree appearance. Easy to grow, but doesn’t like to dry out. 

Dryopteris erythrosora ‘Brilliance’ 

Japanese Wood Fern Japan 

1 E 2 h12" £7 

Eye catching fern that provides colourful ground cover with pink 

fiddleheads that turn coppery orange as they unfurl. A best seller last year. 

Dryopteris filix-mas ‘Euxinensis’ 

Europe 

1 E 2 h24" 

£5 

A rare form of Dryopteris filix-mas, the Male Fern. The light green pinnae 

are flat. It as a good addition to any fern collection. 


Dryopteris filix-mas ‘Furcans’ 

Forked Male Fern British Native 

A fern with vase shaped habit and 

elegant fronds with finely divided 

pinnules. 

A very good grower for British 

gardens, it is worthy of a place in any 

fern collector’s garden. Striking when 

it matures and pretty indestructible, 

which adds to its attraction. 

Not readily available, although in small 

one litres they are good, bushy plants 

that will provide you with a great start 

to your fern collecting. 

We have reasonably low numbers, so 

this is unlikely to be available at shows 

in the height of summer. Buy it now 

whilst stocks last, or reserve it for 

your preferred delivery date. 

1 2 h8-12" £8 

1 E 2 h24" £8 

Dryopteris koidzumiana 

Dryopteris labordei 

Japan 

Japan, China and Korea 

Rare. Stunning red brick colour, giving a great contrast to the many shades Shiny evergreen fronds which develop into a bright bronze colour all the 

of green found in other ferns and plants around the garden. 

way through the season. Another hue to introduce into the mix. 

1 E 2 h18" £6 

1 E 2 h18-24" £6 

Dryopteris lepidopoda 

Dryopteris sieboldii 

Himalayas 

Siebold’s Wood Fern China & Japan 

A beautiful Himalayan fern, pinky red new flush to the glossy foliage. Very Pale, matt green fronds with with broad, leathery segments. Unlike any 

easy to grow and lovely to look at. 

other member of the Dryopteris genus in cultivation. 


1 

W 

2 

h35" 

£5

2 W 2 h30-60" £10 

Dryopteris wallichiana 

Wallich’s Wood Fern Central Asia, Hawaii, Mexico & Elsewhere 

Rachis much darker, often black scales. Scale colour striking against the 

emerging yellowish-green fronds. 

Gymnocarpum dryopteris ‘Plumosum’ 

Oak Fern British Native 

1 2 h12" £5 

A deciduous fern with fresh green triangular fronds on delicately scaled 

stalks. ‘Plumosum’ brings a touch of softness and gentleness. 

1 4 h36-60" £5 

Matteuccia struthiopteris 

Ostrich Fern or Shuttlecock Fern Central Europe 

Architectural plumes of mid-green fronds from a central crown. Slowly 

spreads by underground runners. 

Equisetum hyemale var. affine 

Japanese Horsetail Japan 

1 E 4 h36" £6 

A stunning plant, part of the fern family and will be happy planted in a 

very wet place. Will do well in the middle of a pond. 

Matteuccia orientalis 

Asia 

1 2 h24" £5 

Has a more open growth habit than Matteuccia struthiopteris and flat 

spreading fronds carried on a horizontal rhizome. 

Matteuccia struthiopteris 

‘Jumbo’ Central Europe 

NEW 2 2 h84" 

£10 

Jumbo, as the name suggest is a whopper of a plant. Could well reach 7 

feet tall, larger than the species. It certainly won’t be overlooked. 


Microlepia strigosa ‘MacFaddeniae’ 

Europe 

NEW 1 2 h20" £7 

Bushels of fronds ranging up to a foot in height form a dense compact mass of lacy foliage suggestive of a curly green wig. Sometimes evergreen, even 

when deciduous it holds its fronds well into fall before going dormant. 

Ononclea sensibilis 

Sensitive Fern North America 

1 4 h24" 

£5 

Bright green and deeply lobed triangular fronds. Shows autumn tints with 

the first frosts and retains its shape if left in the garden through winter. 


Carrot fern 

1 E 1 h24" £7 

Rarely offered, this fern has wiry black stems bearing the most beautiful 

arching dark green fronds with feathery finely divided pinnae. 


NEW 1 4 h36" £6 

Osmunda cinnamomea 

Cinnamon Fern North East America and Eastern Asia 

One of the most attractive ferns whilst sporing. The sterile fronds 

surround a central spire of beautiful cinnamon coloured fertile fronds. 

Osmunda regalis ‘Japonicum’ 

Eastern Asia 

NEW 1 4 h36" £6 

As with all Osmundas, Osmunda regalis ‘Japonicum’ loves the wet and 

regally bears gorgeous erect dark stems with striking fronds. 

Polypodium vulgare 

Common Polypody British 

1 E 2 h15" £6 

Leathery fronds are often narrow and tapering to the apex. Ideal for a 

dryish site among rocks or in a well drained border. 

Osmunda claytoniana 

Interrupted Fern East Asia 

NEW 1 4 h36" £6 

Fascinating! Spore producing pinnae are reduced in size and are black, 

creating a superb contrast with the sterile frond sections. 

Pellaea rotundifolia 

Button Fern New Zealand 

NEW 2 2 h12" £10 

The glossy dark green pinnate fronds form a flattish rosette and the 

pinnae are rounded and stalked. A wonderfully exotic fern. 

Polypodium vulgare ‘Bifido Multifidum’ 

British Native 

1 E 1 h8" 

£6 

An interesting fern with divided and crested fronds perfect for dry shade. 

Polypodiums look at their best in the autumn when other plants fade. 


Polystichum aculeatum 

Hard Shield Fern British 

A fern with deep green glossy fronds, 

forming very handsome shuttlecocks. 

These ferns tend to grow on steep 

slopes in woodland and their long, 

dark green, glossy fronds droop 

downwards. 

Most abundant in the wild in Britain 

and across most of Europe. Found in 

forests and thick copses. Like most 

Polystichums, as tough as old boots 

and really demands to be part of any 

fern collection. 

Not readily available, it does look 

different and provides you with a 

stunning sight all year around as it is 

evergreen. It might look a bit tatty in 

the winter, but it is still magnificent. 

NEW 1 E 2 h24" £6 

1 E 2 h20-30" £6 

Polystichum braunii 

Polystichum makinoi 

Central Europe, North America and East asia 

Makino’s Shield Fern Japan & China 

Leathery fronds that are narrow and bright yellow or green depending Lustrous fronds which have many tan coloured scales on the stipes and 

on light allowed during growing. A very handsome fern. 

rachis. They really stand out against the brilliant green segments. 

1 E 2 h36" £5 

1 E 2 h18-24" £5 

Polystichum munitum 

Polystichum polyblepharum 

Western Sword Fern Northwestern USA 

Japanese Tassel Fern Japan 

Dark green, although the scales make it appear almost white when Bipinnate fronds are glossy green and covered in golden bristles in spring 

unfurling. One of the largest evergreen ferns for the British garden. but gradually turn deeper. The plant forms a loose arching shuttlecock. 


NEW 

1 

E 

2 

h30" 

£6

Polystichum rigens 

Japan 

The only fern with a fragrance (mainly 

in the summer). Triangular to lance 

shaped fronds with stiff, pointed tips. 

Very tolerant of position and climate 

and one of the easiest ferns to look 

after. The look of the fern is very 

different to any other. Martin Rickard 

tells me they smell of foxes! 

Not readily available, we have nice 

bushy plants to get you started off. 

Once planted, these ferns will just get 

on with growing and it will bulk up 

quickly into a handsome specimen 

demanding attention from your fellow 

gardeners. 

1 E 2 h30-36" £5 

1 E 2 h20-48" £10 

Polystichum setiferum 

Polystichum setiferum ‘Bevis’ 

Soft Shield Fern British 

British 

Light green bipinnate fronds. It forms a single shuttlecock when young but Discovered by Devon hedge layer Mr Bevis, this is a rarely offered cultivar. 

this usually becomes a multiple crowned clump when older. 

Absolutely fantastic. Attracted loads of attention at Chelsea last year. 

1 E 2 h6-12" £5 

NEW 1 E 2 h24" £5 

Polystichum setiferum ‘Congestum’ 

Polystichum setiferum 

Europe 

‘Proliferum Wollastonii’ 

Excellent for low borders and rockeries. The midrib is short and the pale British 

green pinnae overlap densely. 

A Devon find in 1852 by Mr Woolaston. Intricate long and lacy fronds. 


NEW 

1 

E 

2 

h24" 

£5

1 E 2 h12" £6 

Polystichum tsus-simense 

Korean Rock Fern Korea, China, Japan & Taiwan 

A small evergreen species, that forms a small clump with fronds held 

erectly. Charming, it looks fantastic in a rockery. 

Pteris cretica ‘Parkeri’ 

Tropics 

NEW 2 E 2 h16" £10 

A very attractive and fast growing fern. Not fully hardy, so requires a 

sheltered position or ideally grow in a protected fernery. 

Selaginella kraussiana 

Tropics 

NEW 2 E 2 h8" £10 

This spikemoss appears delicate and tropical, but surprisingly it makes a 

hardy ground cover even in quite cold areas. 

Pteris cretica albolineata 

Tropics 

NEW 2 E 2 h16" £10 

Beautiful broad, creamy white lines along each leaf centre. A stand out 

fern, not fully hardy so will require some protection in most gardens. 

NEW 2 E 2 h24" £10 

Rumohra adiantiformis 

Leather Leaf Fern Southern Hemisphere 

Grows well as a basket fern. The strong leathery fronds are long-lasting 

once cut, so very popular for flower arrangements. 

NEW 

Selaginella kraussiana ‘Gold Tips’ 

Tropics 

2 E 2 h8" 

£10 

These were really popular on line last year, so we have included it in the 

catalogue this year. The same as kraussiana but with gold tips. 


Selaginella moellendorfii 

Taiwan 

NEW 2 E 2 h12" £10 

A little like foliage from a Cypress tree, this forms a lacy ground covering 

mat. The blade of this spikemoss is very fern like in shape. 

Woodsia obtusa 

USA 

1 2 h6-12" £5 

Excellent for rockery or trough, this fern has pale green fronds which are 

bipinnate with rounded lobes and white scales along the midrib. 

Woodwardia unigemmata 

Jewelled Chain Fern Taiwan 

NEW 2 W 3 h24" £10 

This plant naturally arches towards the ground forming dramatic 

cascades of colour and foliage. The fronds are red on emerging. 

Thelypteris decursive-pinnata 

Japanese Beech Fern Japan 

NEW 1 3 h24" £6 

An easy ground covering fern which spreads in the comfort of light shade 

and compost. The lance shaped fronds form a bushy overlapping colony. 

Woodwardia fimbriata 

Giant Chain Fern Northwestern USA 

1 E 3 h30-60" £5 

A superb majestic but elegant fern with large imposing fronds not readily 

available. These are fantastic specimens. 

Woodwardia virginica 

North America 

1 E 3 h12-24" 

£7 

Olive green foliage with black stems, superb in wet and acid conditions. 

This is rarely available, so make the most of this opportunity to buy. 


TREE FERNS 

Tree ferns are evergreen under glass, but normally deciduous in the 

open except in mild areas or in mild winters. No tree fern is 100% 

hardy out of doors in Britain. Possible exceptions are Dicksonia 

antarctica, Dicksonia fibrosa and possibly Cyathea australis in mild 

gardens washed by the North Atlantic Drift or city centre gardens 

where surrounding buildings keep them warm. For the rest of us, 

protection is necessary from November to April. Smaller trunked 

specimens will struggle more than larger ones. 

Detailed recommendations for over wintering will be enclosed with 

your tree ferns. 

In the past it has often been standard practice to sell tree ferns, 

freshly imported from Australia and New Zealand as bare-rooted 

trunks. The plants we offer are not bare-rooted trunks, they are well 

established specimen plants in full root and full frond. The £45 price 

relates to a specimen whose fronds are approximately 4 –5 feet tall. 

If you are considering a large tree fern planting then do ask to speak 

to one of our experts. We can offer site visits and discuss suitability 

of tree ferns for your particular area. 

15cm Trunk 

£60 

Cyathea brownii 

From Norfolk Island off New Zealand. Again a conservatory 

speciality. 

30cm Trunk 

£275 

5 litres 

£45 

40cm Trunk 

£395 

15cm Trunk 

£125 

50cm Trunk 

£540 

Cyathea dealbata 

The national symbol of New Zealand, the Silver Tree Fern or Ponga. 

The undersides of fronds are silver. Quite simply stunning. 

5 litres 

£45 

Cyathea australis 

Some of the Cyathea tree ferns are amongst the tallest growing 

in the world. More striking than Dicksonia antarctica, leaf bases 

conspicuous and rough with blunt spines. 

5 litres 

£45 

Cyathea cooperi 

Recognisable by its numerous chaffy scales on the leaf bases. An 

Australian tree fern. 

5 litres 

£45 

15cm Trunk 

£125 

30cm Trunk 

£265 

Cyathea medullaris 

The famous Black Tree Fern or Mamaku. Striking black scales on 

croziers. Generally recognised as the largest and most handsome of 

tree ferns. 


60cm Trunk 

£195 

75cm Trunk 

£250 

40cm Trunk 

£150 

100cm Trunk 

£280 

Cyathea smithii 

Dark brown scales at the base of the fronds. This tree fern produces 

masses of very soft and delicate fronds which spread from the 

crown and can reach 6-7 feet in height. 

1 Litre 

£20 

3 Foot 

£115 

2 Litre 

£30 

4 Foot 

£165 

1 Foot 

£40 

6 Foot 

£225 

2 Foot 

£75 

7 Foot 

£265 

Dicksonia antarctica 

The Soft Tree Fern. Hardiest of all the tree ferns that we offer. 

30cm Trunk 

£75 

60cm Trunk 

£130 

2 Litre 

£30 

100cm Trunk 

£275 

Dicksonia squarrosa 

An ideal tree fern for a shady greenhouse or conservatory where 

the trunk can be kept moist. 

5 litres 

Cyathea tomentosissima 

£45 

A beautiful tree fern with very scaly leaf rachis. Native to alpine 

grassland and might endure a slight frost. Much smaller in height 

than other tree ferns. 

2 litres 

£30 

50cm Trunk 

£150 

100cm Trunk 

£260 

Dicksonia sellowiana 

From Brazil. Much yellower hairs in the crown than D. antarctica. 

10 Litres 

£45 

Polystichum vestitum 

Lovely plants from Bangor, the last few this year. Large brown scales 

on the mid rib are very striking. Forms a small trunk. 


GRASSES 

Grasses fit so well with hostas and ferns. Whether you have a garden, meadow, patio, roof terrace, 

pond or lakeside, we can advise grasses that will fit every situation. Whatever soil you have to work 

with, or whatever your colour scheme, there will be grasses just perfect for your spot. Please note 

that the grasses come mainly out of 1 litre pots. 

Icons 

E 

Evergreen Deciduous W Wintergreen NEW 

New 

Height in Inches Spread in Inches 

h12" s12" 

Speciality Grasses These are available in smaller numbers than the other hostas. Please order early 

to be sure you receive what you wish this year! 

BAMBOOS 

Bamboos are making a huge impact in gardens throughout the world again. They are one of the 

most fascinating plants, achieving great height in a very short space of time. They have developed 

a reputation as an invasive plant, but that’s a bit unfair. Some varieties of bamboo are clump 

forming and do not run. Other bamboos we sell are runners and will invade given the chance. But 

we recommend, for an additional £5, a 2 metre strip of 1mm thick polythene that, if planted at a 

depth of 18” around the plant, will perfectly contain the bamboo forever. It is a fantastic solution 

to a long-standing issue and may very well change the way you view bamboos! Please note that 

the bamboos come mainly out of 2.5 litre pots. 

Icons 

Clump forming Running Height in Feet New 

C R h15' NEW 

Speciality Bamboo These are available in smaller numbers than the other hostas. Please order 

early to be sure you receive what you wish this year! 

We always send planting and care instructions with our parcels, however for many more 

tips on growing, please see our frequently updated website www.bowdenhostas.com and 

our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/user/bowdenhostas 

E h12" s20" £7 

Acorus gramineus ‘Ogon’ 

The arching golden, yellow, cream and green striped foliage seems 

to glow in the sun. An elegant fan shaped mound to add a touch of 

ornamental grace to the garden. Likes some moisture. 

E h16" s12" £7 

Anemanthele lessoniana 

Formerly Stipa Arundinacae. One of the most versatile of evergreen 

grasses. A fountain of leaves with innumerable shades of oranges turning 

to copper and bronze. Hazy pink flowers. 


E h60" s24" £10 

Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Overdam’ 

A thick, slightly arching clump of thin, vertical green leaves variegated 

white. New leaves have a pink tint. In summer plumes rise above the 

leaves, and continue to give structure. 

E h16" s12" £9 

Carex brunnea ‘Jenneke’ 

A graceful presence either in the garden or in a container. Slender golden 

variegated foliage creates a fountain of wispy leaves which is a pleasure to 

behold on a summer’s day. 

Calamagrostis x acutiflora 

‘Karl Foerster’ 

Feather Reed Grass ‘Karl Foerster’. 

Invaluable as an architectural and 

ornamental grass. 

Calamagrostis are perennial 

grasses. They are robust, with 

erect stems and densely branching 

flowering panicles in the summer. 

‘Karl Foerster’ is just such a 

structural grass with slender, 

vertical, deep-green foliage which 

sways gently in the breeze. 

Blooms come in early summer 

with purplish-green, feathery 

plumes which fade to golden 

yellow. 

Maintaining a good shape in the 

winter, it will rise gallantly through 

the carpet of snow. Easy to grow, 

it prefers full sun, in moist but 

well drained soil. Ideal for a prairie 

planting. 

E h16" s12" £7 

Carex buchananii 

An evergreen, tussock forming sedge, upright when young but arching 

when older, with twists at the tips of the leaves. Foliage in shades of 

brownish-red. Brown flowers in late summer. 

E h10" s10" £6 

Carex comans ‘Frosted Curls’ 

An evergreen perennial sedge with narrow arching silver-green leaves 

forming a dense dome-shaped clump. Looks great in a pot where the 

curling tips of the leaves cascade over the edges. 


NEW 

E 

h48" 

s36" 

£5

E h18" s8" £6 

Carex flagellifera 

A sedge with narrow, weeping leaves of reddish-brown, almost a metallic 

bronze. The hue is affected by the level of shade. An easy growing 

contrast to other colours in a planting. 

E h18" s18" £6 

Carex flagellifera ‘Kiwi’ Kiwi Seeping Sedge 

A soft fountain-like evergreen with finely-textured pale green blades and 

yellow highlights. Perfect for containers and borders. Golden highlights 

appear in fall. 

W h40" s18" £6 

E h16" 

s35" £6 

Carex grayi ‘Saladin’ Morning Star Sedge 

Carex morrowii ‘Ice Dance’ 

Bears the most wonderful flower seed heads that look like a medieval A stunning sedge with broad dark green strap-like leaves edged in 

weapon! This was a stunning success when we displayed at Scotland last cream. The dense, spreading, evergreen clumps are wonderful to use as 

year. A true grassy star! 

brightening ground cover. Needs moisture. 


E h10" s10" £7 

Carex oshimensis ‘Evergold’ 

This sedge has narrow green and yellow striped leaves. The arching foliage 

flows out of the centre of the grass and looks great all year around, 

especially against a dark companion plant. 

E h60" s60" £12 

Cortaderia selloana ‘Silver Star’ 

This stunning grass has 12” - 36” long, densely tufted plumes, atop tall, 

upright stalks and arching mid-green leaves. Plumes come in white, cream, 

or beige-pink and appear in late summer.” 

E h16" s16" £10 

Dianella caerulea ‘Cassa Blue’ 

The numerous baby blue flowers are a bonus to the versatility of this 

Dianella. The foliage is a rich blue, and quite compact. Drought tolerant 

and frost tolerant it meets all needs. 

E h24" s15" £7 

Carex testacea 

This golden green Carex is densely tufted. With long, olive green, changing 

to coppery orange arching leaves, this grass is spectacular. Try it flowing 

over the sides of a pot. 

E h10" s9" £7 

Deschampsia flexuosa ‘Tatra Gold’ 

Sharp citrus-green leaves make this grass stand out among the other 

plants in the border. Delicate, airy, reddish brown flowers in the early 

summer. 

E h16" 

s16" £10 

Dianella tasmanica ‘Tas Red’ 

Another tough, tolerant Dianella, with yellow and red tinges to the 

strappy leaves. The flower stems are a deep red, and flowers in summer 

make way for purple berries later on. 


E h10" s12" £7 

Festuca glauca ‘Elijah Blue’ 

This is considered to be one of the best festuca blue selections, retaining 

its fabulous colour all season. Tan spikes appear in early summer. Excellent 

for mass planting or edging. 

h12" s9" £10 

Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ 

An eye-catching small ornamental grass, which forms cascading 

hummocks of vividly striped bright yellow and green foliage. The narrow 

leaves keep their colour throughout the season. 

h12" s9" £10 

Imperata cylindrica ‘Red Baron’ 

The most easily identifiable of all our grasses, it develops its best blood 

red blades in the full sun. Placed where the sun will shine through, the red 

really lights up. Needs moisture to thrive. 

h9" s10" £7 

Festuca ‘Golden Toupee’ 

‘Golden Toupee’ is a compact, mound-forming grass with needle-like 

leaves that are bright yellow in spring, later becoming grey-green. The 

flower spikes are tinged with red. 

E h36" s23" £9 

Helictotrichon sempervirens 

A striking, upright, bright steely blue grass forming a neat clump. A 

fountain of beige panicles follows in the middle of summer. Enjoys 

sunshine and well drained soil. 

E h9" s12" £6 

Isolepis cernua 

Fun - it really is reminiscent of those fibre optic lamps back in the 1970s. 

The colour is eye-catching, then the small white flowers poke out to 

make a globe! Ideal in a waterside or bog garden. 


E h18" s24" £7 

Juncus filiformis ‘Spiralis’ 

Fun & fascinating, it forms a clump of the most spiralling foliage of all the 

curly Juncuses. Produces a multitude of stiff wiry corkscrew shaped stems 

in shades of mid to deep green. 

E h24" s18" £7 

Luzula nivea 

This evergreen grass produces masses of arching silvery white flowers 

from early to mid summer. Its loose clumps of flat dark green leaves make 

an excellent ground cover. 

h54" s36" £10 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Ferner Osten’ 

‘Ferner Osten’ is a deciduous grass with sparse, arching yellow-green 

stems and ruby red panicles fading to silver. A statement in the garden in 

the autumn when the flowers are at their height. 

E h16" s12" £6 

Koeleria glauca 

Tufted grass with narrow foliage, but broader and not as spiky as Festuca 

glauca. Stems bear silvery green spikelets in mid summer. A great colour 

to contrast with companion plants. 

h23" s12" £7 

Milium effusum ‘Aureum’ 

Bowles’s Golden Grass. Attractively arching gold foliage forms loose 

clumps with tall, nodding yellow flower spikes in the summer. A calming 

but bright influence with its wide blades. 

E h72" s48" £10 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Graziella’ 

Soft silvery white plumes in the autumn are the crowning glory of this 

Miscanthus. The narrow leaves are a graceful sight during the earlier part 

of the year, green and then coppery later. 


E h54" s36" £10 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Morning Light’ 

Superb plant, with erect stems bearing arching, linear leaves edged with 

white and panicles of silky spikelets in late summer or autumn. Great for a 

specimen, needing sunshine. 

h60" s36" £10 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Variegatus’ 

Fine texture, a gentle colour scheme, and a bit of swaying in the wind are 

welcome. This grass can be used as a focal point, an anchor plant, or even 

as a privacy screen. 

E h16" s9" £6 

Nassella tenuissima 

Formerly Stipa tenuissima. Fine, orange tinted foliage topped with 

feathery silver flower plumes swaying in the wind. It is compulsory to run 

them through your fingers because they are so fluffy. 

h72" s18" £10 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Strictus’ 

The yellow bands across the green leaves provide interest throughout 

the spring and summer seasons, with crinkly silver plumes doing their bit 

in mid autumn. 

h23" s12" £9 

Molinia caerulea ‘variegata’ 

Compact clumps of slightly arching bold cream and green striped leaves 

with open panicles of tall pink tinged flowers. Works well when planted 

in groups of three. 

h54" s24" £10 

Panicum virgatum ‘Heavy Metal’ 

Stiffly erect, metallic blue grey leaves provide a wonderful focal point of 

colour and many opportunities to match with companion plants. Visual 

interest in the winter from the seed plumes. 


Panicum virgatum ‘Prairie Sky’ 

Blue Switch Grass 

E h48" s36" £10 

This outstanding selection forms an arching clump of steel-blue leaves, 

bearing airy heads of tiny green flowers in late summer. The foliage then 

turns bright, butter gold. 

h12" s9" £8 

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Little Bunny’ 

The late summer flowers are the talking point here. Fluffy, white foxtail 

flowers, typical of a Pennisetum, look like so many little bunnies tails. Cute, 

this is the smallest of the Dwarf Fountain Grasses. 

E h23" s18" £10 

Stipa gigantea 

Great specimen grass. Towering above the arching green foliage will come 

large panicles of oat-like purple flowers ripening to gold or rich bronze. 

Height with the flower heads can reach 5 feet. 

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ 

Dwarf Fountain Grass 

E h24" s36" £10 

A semi-dwarf form. ‘Hameln’ is easy to grow, preferring sunshine and 

moisture. Flowers appear from midsummer on tall stems topped by a 

bottlebrush or foxtail of pink hairs. 

Pennisetum thunbergii ‘Red Buttons’ 

Fountain Grass 

E h20" s14" £10 

This annual produces deep reddish-black flowers that resemble rabbits’ 

tails. Flowers persist throughout the season. This plant forms an evergreen 

clump of green foliage with burgundy highlights. 

E h16" 

s12" £7 

Uncinia rubra 

The glossy, stiff, dark mahogany leaves are a wonderful contrast to other 

plants surrounding this one. Try some yellows. Decorative dark hook seed 

heads in the summer. 


C h10’ £25 

Fargesia jiuzhaigou 

Fantastic plant with a very upright habit and small leaves. Culms arrive as green then become red-purple, finally settling at yellow, so place it 

where you can appreciate the colour changes. Makes a clump that can get to 10 feet tall. 

NEW C h14’ £25 

Fargesia robusta ‘Campbell’ 

A superbly tough but beautiful bamboo. The sheaths are a startling clear 

white and are outstanding in the spring when the new shoots rise. 

C h10’ 

£25 

Fargesia robusta ‘Pingwu’ 

The culms are striking when mature, with beautiful stripes which make it 

a stand out plant. Foliage is lush and this bamboo is ideal for screening. 


NEW R h12’ £25 

Phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘Aureocaulis’ 

The brightest golden bamboo we offer. Was a huge success last year, with many people buying several of them for tall screening. Known as the 

‘Golden Chinese Timber Bamboo’, this plant has bright golden culms with striped ones occasionally rearing their heads. 

R h20’ £25 

Phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘Spectabilis’ 

Frequent zig zagged culms are a gorgeous golden colour and make quite 

a talking point. Tall growing, so is great for hiding anything in the garden! 

NEW R h15’ 

£25 

Phyllostachys bissetii 

Masses of dense, dark foliage. Tall, slightly arching fat canes are shiny and 

dark green, changing to yellowish green with age. Young shoots are edible! 


R h15’ £25 

Phyllostachys nigra 

We have managed a better picture for this year. This picture really does show its dark, ebony like culms which will come through on maturity, 

you will need to be a little bit patient! It’s a real speciality, known as the ‘Black Bamboo’ and we highly recommend it. 

R h25’ £25 

Phyllostachys vivax ‘Aureocaulis’ 

Golden culms make a striking bamboo. Very easy to grow, an ideal first 

bamboo to get you started for screening in your garden. 

NEW C h5’ 

£20 

Sasaella masamuneana ‘Albostriata’ 

Great ground cover bamboo with bright variegation. Trim or mow in the 

spring for fresh new growth. 


Name: 

Address: 

Tel: Email: 

Enclosed is a limited cheque for £: 

Paypal Payment: 

Postcode: 

or charge to Credit/Debit card Start Date: Expiry Date: 

Card Number: 

Issue Number (Switch): 3 Digit Security Number (on rear of card): 

IMPORTANT 

Please see reverse for Post and 

Packing charges and information 

BOWDEN ORDER FORM 


HOW TO ORDER 

Telephone 01837 840989 

Website www.bowdenhostas.com 

E mail sales@bowdenhostas.com 

Post Bowden Hostas 


Devon, EX20 2NL 

Nursery Visit us at Sticklepath 

Opening times are on page 80. 

HOW TO PAY 

You may pay by:- 

Credit or debit card, 

Paypal 

Cheque in £ sterling payable to Bowden Hostas 

Cash if you are at the nursery 

If you would like us to acknowledge receipt of your order, please send a stamped addressed 

envelope. 

Please add Postage and Packing charges: 

UK and EEC countries 

We offer a fantastic service to Europe. Parcels can be easily tracked, usually arriving with you in 

Europe only three days after leaving us here in the UK. 

UK EEC TREE FERNS 

Orders for only one plant £3 £5 Tree ferns are posted at a charge 

2-6 plants £5 £20 of £10 each tree fern. We quote 

7-14 plants £7 £30 individually for delivering tree ferns 

15-39 plants £10 £45 overseas. There are discounts for 

40+ plants Free * larger quantities 

*For a delivery of 40 or more hostas to EEC countries, or any delivery to a non EEC country, please 

email us for a quotation. 

Where a Phytosanitary Certificate is required, the usual cost of £25 will be added to the rates above. 

We will substitute plants if we are out of stock unless you mark your order form 

‘NO SUBSTITUTES’. 

If your address has changed, please tell us your previous address so we can amend our 

records. 

Almost all of our orders are sent out within four weeks, many much quicker. A few may exceed this 

time at the height of the show season. If you would like your parcel sent by a particular date, or to 

avoid holidays, please let us know. We aim to accommodate your requirements. 


Index 

HOSTAS 

A 

Abiqua Drinking Gourd 16 

Allegan Fog 34 

American Halo 18 

Andrew 15 

Aristocrat 12 

B 

Baby Bunting 7 

Bedford Rise and Shine 23 

Blue Hawaii 18 

Blue Lollipop 8 

Blue Mammoth 19 

Blue Mouse Ears 8 

Blue Umbrellas 19 

Blueberry Muffin 11 

C 

Canadian Blue 13 

Captain Kirk 26 

Cathedral Windows 29 

Catherine 9 

Center of Attention 38 

Cherish 7 

Clifford’s Stingray 37 

Clown’s Collar 8 

Coal Miner 38 

Coconut Custard 21 

Cracker Crumbs 20 

Cutting Edge 12 

D 

Dance with Me 24 

Dancing Queen 29 

Daybreak 30 

Designer Genes 21 

Devon Gold 20 

FERNS 

Devon Green 35 

Dixie Chick 32 

Dream Weaver 17 

E 

Earth Angel 19 

El Niño 13 

Empress Wu 38 

Enterprise 37 

F 

Fantasy Island 32 

Fire and Ice 36 

Fire Island 24 

Fireworks 32 

First Frost 14 

Forbidden Fruit 17 

Fragrant Blue 10 

Fragrant Fire 28 

G 

George Smith 18 

Ghost Spirit 36 

Glamour 35 

Glory Hallelujah 16 

Gold Standard 30 

Golden Meadows 16 

Gone with the Wind 39 

Goodness Gracious 27 

Grand Canyon 28 

Great Arrival 16 

Great Escape 9 

Guardian Angel 19 

Gypsy Rose 25 

H 

Halcyon 14 

Hanky Panky 22 

A 

Adiantum aleuticum ‘Imbricatum’ 44 

Adiantum capillus-veneris 44 

Adiantum hispidulum 44 

Adiantum mairissii 44 

Adiantum venustum 44 

Anemia tomentosa 44 

Arachnoides davalliaeformis 45 

Arachnoides simplicor ‘variegata’ 45 

Arachnoides standishii 45 

Asplenium scolopendrium 45 

Asplenium scolopendrium ‘Cristatum’ 45 

Asplenium scolopendrium ‘Marginatum’ 45 

Asplenium trichomanes 46 

Athyrium filix-femina Cruciatum group 46 

Athyrium filix-femina ‘Frizelliae’ 46 

Athyrium filix-femina ‘Lady in Red’ 47 

Athyrium niponicum ‘Pictum’ 47 

Hot Air Balloon 31 

J 

June 10 

Jurassic Park 39 

K 

Kiwi Full Monty 15 

Krossa Regal 30 

L 

Lacy Belle 10 

Lakeside Cha Cha 28 

Lemon Delight 20 

Lemon Juice 34 

Liberty 29 

Lime Fizz 32 

M 

Mack the Knife 21 

Mama Mia 26 

Marilyn Monroe 37 

May 22 

Minuteman 34 

Miss Ruby 34 

O 

Orange Marmalade 27 

P 

Pandora’s Box 7 

Paradise Island 26 

Patriot 36 

Paul’s Glory 16 

Pewterware 9 

plantaginea 37 

Praying Hands 37 

Prince of Wales 19 

Proud Sentry 26 

R 

Rainbow’s End 23 

Red Alert 33 

Regal Splendor 17 

Ripple Effect 11 

Risky Business 39 

Royal Standard 38 

S 

Sagae 30 

Silk Road 35 

Spartan Arrow 32 

St Paul 14 

Sum And Substance 30 

T 

Tattle Tails 20 

Teeny-weeny Bikini 33 

Tick Tock 22 

Tickle Me Pink 23 

Titanic 31 

Tom Schmid 16 

Tongue Twister 33 

Touch of Class 13 

Twilight 25 

Twist of Lime 20 

Twitter 26 

V 

Vulcan 34 

W 

Whirlwind 38 

Winter Snow 31 

Y 

Yellow Polka Dot Bikini 25 

Yellow River 30 

Athyrium niponicum pictum var. ‘Apple Court’ 47 

Athyrium niponicum pictum var. ‘Burgundy Lace’ 47 

Athyrium niponicum pictum var. ‘Pewter Lace’ 47 

Athyrium niponicum pictum var. ‘Red Beauty’ 48 

Athyrium niponicum pictum var. ‘Regal Red’ 48 

Athyrium niponicum pictum var. ‘Ursula’s Red’ 48 

Athyrium otophorum ‘Okanum’ 48 

Athyrium vidalii 48 

Athyrium x Ghost 48 

B 

Blechnum braziliensis 49 

Blechnum penna-marina 49 

Blechnum spicant 49 

C 

Cheilanthes argentea 49 

Cheilanthes tormentosa 49 

Cyrtomium fortunei ‘Clivicola’ 50 

Cyrtomium macrophyllum 50 


FERNS - Continued 

D 

Doodia Media 51 

Dryopteris affinis 51 

Dryopteris affinis ‘Augustata Cristata’ 51 

Dryopteris affinis ‘Crispa’ 51 

Dryopteris affinis ‘Cristata’ (The King) 51 

Dryopteris affinis ‘Pinderi’ 52 

Dryopteris affinis ‘Polydactyla Dadds’ 52 

Dryopteris championii 52 

Dryopteris crassirhizoma 52 

Dryopteris cycadina 52 

Dryopteris dilatata ‘Crispa Whiteside’ 53 

Dryopteris dilatata ‘Lepidota Cristata’ 53 

Dryopteris erythrosora 53 

Dryopteris erythrosora ‘Brilliance’ 53 

Dryopteris erythrosora ‘Prolifica’ 53 

Dryopteris filix-mas ‘Euxinensis’ 53 

Dryopteris filix-mas ‘Furcans’ 54 

Dryopteris koidzumiana 54 

Dryopteris labordei 54 

Dryopteris lepidopoda 54 

Dryopteris sieboldii 54 

Dryopteris wallichiana 55 

TREE FERNS 

C 

Cyathea australis 62 

Cyathea brownii 62 

Cyathea cooperi 62 

Cyathea dealbata 62 

ORNAMENTAL GRASSES 

A 

Acorus gramineus ‘Ogon’ 64 

Anemanthele lessoniana 64 

C 

Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’ 65 

Calamagrostis x acutiflora ‘Overdam’ 65 

Carex brunnea ‘Jenneke’ 65 

Carex buchananii 65 

Carex comans ‘Frosted Curls’ 65 

Carex flagellifera 66 

Carex flagellifera ‘Kiwi’ 66 

Carex grayi ‘Saladin’ 66 

Carex morrowii ‘Ice Dance’ 66 

Carex oshimensis ‘Evergold’ 67 

Carex testacea 67 

Cortaderia selloana ‘Silver Star’ 67 

D 

Deschampsia flexuosa ‘Tatra Gold’ 67 

BAMBOO 

F 

Fargesia jiuzhaigou 72 

Fargesia robusta ‘Campbell’ 72 

Fargesia robusta ‘Pingwu’ 72 

E 

Equisetum hyemale var. affine 55 

G 

Gymnocarpum dryopteris ‘Plumosum’ 55 

M 

Matteuccia orientalis 55 

Matteuccia struthiopteris 55 

Matteuccia struthiopteris ‘Jumbo’ 55 

Microlepia strigosa ‘MacFaddeniae’ 56 

O 

Ononclea sensibilis 56 

Onychium japonicum 56 

Osmunda cinnamomea 57 

Osmunda claytoniana 57 

Osmunda regalis ‘Japonicum’ 57 

P 

Pellaea rotundifolia 57 

Polypodium vulgare 57 

Polypodium vulgare ‘Bifido Multifidum’ 57 

Polystichum aculeatum 58 

Polystichum braunii 58 

Polystichum makinoi 58 

Polystichum munitum 58 

Polystichum polyblepharum 58 

Cyathea medullaris 62 

Cyathea smithii 63 

Cyathea tomentosissima 63 

D 

Dicksonia antarctica 63 

Dianella caerulea ‘Cassa Blue’ 67 

Dianella tasmanica ‘Tas Red’ 67 

F 

Festuca glauca ‘Elijah Blue’ 68 

Festuca ‘Golden Toupee’ 68 

H 

Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’ 68 

Helictotrichon sempervirens 68 

I 

Imperata cylindrica ‘Red Baron’ 68 

Isolepis cernua 68 

J 

Juncus filiformis ‘Spiralis’ 69 

K 

Koeleria glauca 69 

L 

Luzula nivea 69 

M 

Milium effusum ‘Aureum’ 69 

P 

Phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘Aureocaulis’ 73 

Phyllostachys aureosulcata ‘Spectabilis’ 73 

Phyllostachys bissetii 73 

Phyllostachys nigra 74 

Polystichum rigens 59 

Polystichum setiferum 59 

Polystichum setiferum ‘Bevis’ 59 

Polystichum setiferum ‘Congestum’ 59 

Polystichum setiferum ‘Proliferum Wollastonii’ 59 

Polystichum tsus-simense 60 

Pteris cretica albolineata 60 

Pteris cretica ‘Parkeri’ 60 

R 

Rumohra adiantiformis 60 

S 

Selaginella kraussiana 60 

Selaginella kraussiana ‘Gold Tips’ 60 

Selaginella moellendorfii 61 

T 

Thelypteris decursive-pinnata 61 

W 

Woodsia obtusa 61 

Woodwardia fimbriata 61 

Woodwardia unigemmata 61 

Woodwardia virginica 61 

Dicksonia sellowiana 63 

Dicksonia squarrosa 63 

P 

Polystichum vestitum 63 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Ferner Osten’ 69 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Graziella’ 69 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Morning Light’ 70 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Strictus’ 70 

Miscanthus sinensis ‘Variegatus’ 70 

Molinia caerulea ‘variegata’ 70 

N 

Nassella tenuissima 70 

P 

Panicum virgatum ‘Heavy Metal’ 70 

Panicum virgatum ‘Prairie Sky’ 71 

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ 71 

Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Little Bunny’ 71 

Pennisetum thunbergii ‘Red Buttons’ 71 

S 

Stipa gigantea 71 

U 

Uncinia rubra 71 

Phyllostachys vivax ‘Aureocaulis’ 74 

S 

Sasaella masamuneana ‘Albostriata’ 74 


We are proud to have a legendary team of 

experts working with us, providing superb plant 

knowledge and experience. This depth of world 

class knowledge means that you receive fantastic 

service to go with wonderful plants. 

Tim & Ruth Penrose 

Tim and his wife Ruth purchased 

the hosta business from Ann and 

Roger Bowden in 2004. Since then, 

they have been awarded 7 Chelsea 

Flower Show Gold Medals in 7 years 

and Tim personally holds a Royal 

Warrant to HRH The Prince Of 

Wales. 

Roger & Ann Bowden 

Among leading UK hosta experts, Ann and Roger have 

shared their knowledge and experience over many years. 

As the number of hosta cultivars increased rapidly during 

the 1980s and 1990s, Ann and Roger were pioneers 

in bringing these to the notice of those in the UK and 

have been awarded National Collection status. For any 

questions you have about the National Collection, feel 

free to talk to Roger direct on 01837 840481. 

Mike Shadrack 

Mike is our world renowned hosta consultant. He lives part in America and part in 

London and has been the photographer behind many famous hosta publications. Mike 

and Kathy’s American gardens can be viewed at www.smugcreekgardens.com 

Martin Rickard 

Martin has been a fern enthusiast for almost 50 years. He has authored or co-authored 

5 books on ferns and has accumulated over 30 RHS gold medals for his legendary fern 

displays, including 10 consecutive Chelsea gold medals. He has also won the Tudor Rose 

Award at Hampton Court Palace Flower Show and holds the Veitch Gold Memorial 

Medal. Martin designed and built the Gold Medal winning Bowden Chelsea Fern display 

in 2012 and will be returning in 2013. 

Dick Hayward 

Dick is our on line fern expert. He owned Rickards Hardy Ferns after Martin and, like him, 

is passionate about ferns. He is growing ferns exclusively for Bowdens and plans to be at 

Chelsea and Scotland this year for the flower shows. 

Piet Oudolf 

We are pleased to be working with Piet Oudolf who is world renowned as an influential 

Dutch Garden Designer and nurseryman. He is particularly noted for using bold drifts 

of herbaceous perennials, which are chosen for their structure as much as their flower 

colour. He won an RHS gold medal at the Chelsea Flower Show and the award for ‘Best 

In Show’ in 2000 and was also awarded the Veitch Gold Memorial Medal in the same year. 

David Howard 

David is a graduate of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Edinburgh and is the former head 

gardener to their Royal Highnesses The Prince Of Wales and The Duchess Of Cornwall. 

He was at Highgrove for ten years and now lectures extensively throughout the world. 

He continues to work with us on garden design and build. 

George Feltrup 

George is a legend amongst many of our customers at the shows we undertake each 

year. He started helping out at Chelsea Flower Show in 2004, assisting a ‘run-off-his-feet’ 

Tim and has been present ever since! He is multi talented: hosta seller, flower arranger, 

chef, photographer and floral hall stand designer and builder. George heads up our shows 

team with enthusiasm and fun, you will no doubt see him this year. 


VISITING US 

The nursery is open from May 1st until the 31st July, Monday to Saturday 10 am to 4pm and we are always 

delighted to see visitors. Quite frankly outside of these times we almost always have someone on the 

nursery as we are busy packing from early February. 

We are very easy to find, on the old A30 to Cornwall, just follow the brown tourist signs. We would be 

delighted to see you. If you are making a special journey, then feel free to call us to check that the plants you 

are hoping to buy are in stock! 

Arriving with us, you will be able to view probably the finest collection of hostas in the United Kingdom. 

Ann & Roger Bowden have collected hostas for over 30 years. A National Collection to view in a 1 acre 

garden with mature shrubs and trees, then hostas, ferns and grasses of every shape and size to buy. All this 

in beautiful Devon as well. 

The RHS Garden Rosemoor is a 45 minute drive away, the NT properties of Castle Drogo, Killerton and 

Knightshayes and our very own Finch Foundry in the village of Sticklepath, are all close by for a visit. We can 

recommend local rivers for swimming, beaches to take the family to and you are spoilt for choice if you fancy 

fresh scones with jam and clotted cream. 

Hosta Garden 

2013 FLOWER SHOWS 

The shows we plan to attend in 2013 are as follows: 

Malvern Spring Gardening Show Blenheim Palace Flower Show 

Chelsea Flower Show Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 

Gardening Scotland, Edinburgh Tatton Park Flower Show 

BBC Gardeners’ World Live 

The exact dates of these shows can be found on our website www.bowdenhostas.com. 

We are members of the following societies and would encourage you to look them up and join: 

The British Hosta & Hemerocallis Society. www.hostahem.org.uk 

The British Pteridological Society. www.nhm.ac.uk/hosted_sites/bps/ 

PHOTO CREDITS 

The majority of the hosta photographs were taken by Ruth at the nursery. For the other pictures our thanks to: 

Richard Barker, Carol Brashear, Don Dean, Gerd Dreisbach, Danny van Eechaute, Marco Fransen, Monika Gruner- 

Mittag, Heemskerk Vaste Planten, Jolanta Karcz, Luc Klinkhamer, Margit Lepschy, Hugo Philips, üte van der Putten, 

Mike Shadrack, Shady Oaks, Gisela Vendt, Walters Gardens, P Th Warmerdam, Marco Wesselink. 



Devon, 

EX20 2NL 

tourist sign 

Tel: 01837 840989 (24 hour answerphone) 

email: sales@bowdenhostas.com 

www.bowdenhostas.com

Spring Catalogue 2013 - Bowden Hostas

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