10 Mediterranean garden flowers

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​Mediterranean gardens are famous for their bold contrasts and rustic beauty.

Too much emphasis however, is often placed on non flowering plants and architectural foliage in Mediterranean garden designs.

The truth is, there are many fantastic Mediterranean garden flowers you can incorporate into your borders. These do not have to become a dominant theme but provide some added colour and seasonal joy.

It doesn’t even matter if you live in a cooler climate! Most Mediterranean flowers mentioned here have hardy varieties or can be overwintered.

Below I have listed and described 10 flowers which are perfect for Mediterranean gardens wherever you live.  
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1. Agapanthus

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Agapanthuses are perennial flowering plants which originate from South Africa. Coming from a climatic zone very similar to the Mediterranean region means they may need some winter protection.

​These plants can be lifted and put under cover if you live in a cold climate. However, their amazing globe arrangements of colourful bell flowers are exquisite.  
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2. Rose

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Roses have long been popular in the Mediterranean but are poorly represented by many gardens. The rose has more often been associated with English gardens.

Roses however are typically used for contrast in Mediterranean gardens. This can be seen when blood red roses are planted against rendered white walls. 
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3. Jasmine

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One thing which is so reminiscent of Mediterranean gardens is the evening scent of Jasmine. In hot parts of the Med this is usually enjoyed with the Indian Jasmine.

However, this is not hardy so climbing jasmines such as common and star jasmine are good substitutes. 
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4. Geranium

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Walk down any rural street in Spain, Italy or Greece in summer you will be dazzled by red Geraniums. These very striking plants have a long flowering season during the summer.

Their cluster of red blooms gives them plenty of impact in Mediterranean gardens. If you live in a colder climate, these can be planted as annuals during late spring. 
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5. Hibiscus

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Hibiscus blooms have long been thought of as the most exotic looking flower. Although tropical, hibiscuses are not hardy enough to grow in most temperate climates, however, there is a substitute!

​The hardy Hibiscus is actually a hardy Mallow cultivar from North America. Its large hibiscus like flower is the perfect substitute for cooler Mediterranean gardens 
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6. Lavender

​Lavender is a fantastic landscaping plant with blue, grey, foliage and decorative flowers. Traditionally utilised for its aroma it also has very attractive flowering blooms.

Lavender is originally from the Mediterranean making it a perfect evergreen shrub for such a garden style. 
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7. Hollyhock

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​Not always recognised as a Mediterranean plant Mallows have bold foliage and tall flower Stalks.

​The large flowers come in a range of colours which compliment Mediterranean borders. These perennial plants will come up every season and provide vibrant flowers year after year. 

8. Acanthus mollis

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Also known as 'Bears Breeches' this Mediterranean perennial has a bold impact within a planting scheme.

This plant has large architectural foliage and dramatic flower spikes during the summer months. This plant and its flowers look quite essentially Mediterranean in every sense! 
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​9. Red valerian 

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​Red valerian is an attractive, perennial plant with dark, pink, flowers. It is very popular with varying insects making it good pollinator plant.

Its vibrant green leaves and brightly coloured blooms make it perfect for Mediterranean garden borders.  
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10. Canna 

​Cannas have become increasingly popular garden plants in recent years. Cannas are originally from tropical regions within the Americas.

This makes them a plant you will need to overwinter under cover in cooler regions. However, their banana palm like leaves and colourful flowers are always worth the extra effort. 

​Cannas can bring drama and lots of colour to Mediterranean garden planting areas. 
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Thank you for reading our article on the best flowering plants for a Mediterranean garden. If you are interested in our Mediterranean garden services please contact us here.

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