In 2006, I had the privilege of contributing to a show garden at the “Garden Heaven” exhibition, collaborating with Terra Garden Ireland on the bronze medal-winning Malaysian-themed garden, “Neo Nusantara.” This garden harmonized wood, stone, earth, and diverse plantings, complemented by two distinctive water features. The design was conceived to stimulate and rejuvenate the five senses: sight, touch, sound, smell, and taste.
To specifically enhance the sense of smell, I incorporated carefully chosen plants. Here are two examples that can bring delightful fragrance to any garden:
* **Sage (Salvia x sylvestris “Mainacht”)**
Also known as May Night Sage, Salvia x sylvestris “Mainacht” is a robust perennial originating from Western Asia and Europe. It showcases vibrant indigo-blue flower spikes throughout June and July. To encourage prolonged flowering, promptly remove the spent flower spikes. The striking flowers rise above the plant’s wrinkled, aromatic grey-green leaves. Beyond its appeal to the gardener’s sense of smell, this plant attracts butterflies and bees, introducing an additional visual element to the garden.
Salvia x sylvestris “Mainacht” maintains a moderate growth rate, reaching a height of approximately 60cm (2ft) with a similar spread, ensuring it won’t overwhelm other plants. It thrives in a well-drained border, ideally positioned in sun or partial shade. Its bright blue flowers provide a striking color contrast against green-leaved plants.
* **English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia “Hidcote”)**
Lavandula angustifolia “Hidcote,” or English lavender, is a small evergreen shrub prized for its scent. Originating from Europe and Asia, it typically grows to a height of 0.6 meters (2ft) with a similar spread. Commonly found in gardens, it features long-stalked, deep purple flower spikes that sway gracefully above narrow, grey-green aromatic leaves. These blooms last for weeks on the plant and up to 10 days when cut for indoor display. Pruning the flower stalks after flowering helps maintain the plant’s compact shape; avoid cutting into old wood, as this can cause dieback.
Lavender oil, extracted from this frost-hardy shrub, remains a popular ingredient in soaps, scented candles, perfumes, and potpourri. Lavender thrives in free-draining or sandy soils, making it an excellent container plant for sunny locations due to its drought resistance. This scented plant is ideal for edging walkways or attracting butterflies to your garden. Another notable lavender variety for attracting butterflies is Lavandula angustifolia “Munstead.”