Euphorbia, coleus and bidens window box

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Wednesday, 17 July 2019 at 3:06 pm

Create a stylish, shade-loving window box display of euphorbia, coleus and bidens.

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In this cool bouquet for a gloomy spot, we combine lime-leaved coleus and silver-edged tulbaghia with euphorbia and golden bidens, both of which will keep on blooming whatever the weather. It's ideal for a shady window-ledge, steps or a low wall, as it needs only a few hours of sun a day to maintain its lush and flowery look.

For added drama, try substituting the variegated tulbaghia with black lilyturf, Ophiopogon nigrescens.

You Will Need

Euphorbia ‘Diamond Frost’
Golden coleus (3)
Bidens ferulifolia (2)
Tulbaghia violacea ‘Silver Lace’ (2)
Window box
Multi-purpose, peat-free compost
Crocks

Step 1

Position the window box where you want it, place a layer of crocks at the bottom, then three-quarters fill with compost. Arrange the plants, firm well and top up with compost, then water well.

Kevin Smith says...
Combine golden foliage with a black container to create a modern look with a contemporary feel. The dark container will highlight the zingyness of the plants, giving them plenty of standout when displayed in a shady spot.