Shrubs and Spikes

Spikes of Cordylines and New Zealand flaxes combine with the delicate leaves of variegated Pittosporums to give Middle Garden its essential look. It's a classic shrubby and spiky New Zealand garden.

The plants need boisterous pruning, and the Pittosporums need constant trimming. And just occasionally a winter snow storm will break some of their bendy branches.

These views of Middle Garden are all taken from the unfortunately named Duck Lawn. And where exactly are the ducks? Don't ask! But the name has stuck.

Duckless Lawn

I often refer to this oval paddock-grass area as 'Duckless Lawn'. Hmm... Blame a certain red border collie dog named Rusty for that...

These basic green Cordylines are favourites with me - many New Zealand gardeners wouldn't agree. Cordylines are forever messy, shedding their old leaves. And they do need space to grow.