There’s something truly magical about Mediterranean plants and gardens – the scent of citrus, the vivid bougainvillea, the warmth radiating from silvery olive leaves… On a recent trip to Sicily, we found ourselves surrounded by plants that not only thrived in that glorious sunshine but also had the potential to flourish back here in the UK.
So, we hand-picked a collection of Mediterranean beauties that we know will thrive in your gardens – just as they do in ours. Whether you’re working with a balcony, patio, or a sunny garden border, these sun-lovers will bring colour, structure, and that unmistakable ‘holiday feeling’ right to your door.
Bougainvillea Bush
This bold beauty is the very essence of Mediterranean plants. Covered in vibrant magenta bracts across summer, the Bougainvillea Bush brings instant impact to patios and balconies. It’s a superb choice for pots – easy to move indoors for winter, where it’ll keep thriving in a bright, frost-free space. The lush foliage stays green year-round, and it’s as easy-going as it is exotic. Drought tolerant and virtually maintenance-free, this stunning plant is a favourite for gardeners of all levels. Supplied in an 18cm pot, ready to plant.
A new twist on the classic bottlebrush, ‘Red Rocket’ sets your garden alight with fiery red new growth for months. It’s a compact evergreen with lemon-scented foliage and fluffy red blooms that pollinators can’t resist. Whether you use it as a hedge, a shrub, or a container specimen, this Aussie favourite thrives with minimal attention. Frost and drought resistant, it’s a low-fuss way to add colour and structure. Supplied in a 17cm pot, ready to plant.
Pink Camellia
A spring showstopper, this evergreen Camellia delivers masses of pink blooms just when your garden needs a lift. It’s happy in pots, ideal for acidic compost, and thrives in dappled sun. Its glossy green foliage provides structure year-round, while the flowers burst forth even when little else is in bloom. Fully hardy, low maintenance, and long-lived, it’s a must-have for UK gardens. Supplied in a 19cm pot, ready to plant.
Red Camellia
Packed with charm and deep red blooms, this hardy evergreen Camellia is perfect for pots or beds. Its glossy leaves look stunning all year, and the flower buds swell from late summer, ready to open in early spring. It’s great for early-season colour, and being problem-free and fully hardy, it’s ideal for gardeners of all abilities. Supplied in a 19cm pot, ready to plant.
Chamaerops Compact ‘The Volcano Palm’
This hardy dwarf palm is a true Mediterranean gem. Discovered on Mount Etna, it’s incredibly tough (down to -10C) and utterly charming with its fan-like fronds and multi-stemmed habit. It makes a statement in containers and small gardens, and best of all – it’s easy to grow and maintain. Just pop it in a sunny spot, water now and then, and enjoy the exotic vibe year-round. Supplied in a 22cm red pot, ready to plant.
Citrus ‘Calamondin Orange’ Tree with Fruits
Why not sample the delights of ‘grow your own’ with Mediterranean plants? This patio favourite is a fruity showstopper! This compact citrus tree arrives already fruiting – no waiting around. It produces fragrant white flowers and small, decorative fruits that are delicious in cooking and drinks. Move it outdoors in summer and bring it in before frosts for a second round of flowers. Supplied in a 22cm pot, 55–75cm tall, with fruit.
Citrus ‘Kumquat’ Tree with Fruits
This miniature marvel is both ornamental and productive. The small, golden fruits can be eaten whole – skin and all! Beautiful white blooms in spring and evergreen glossy foliage keep it looking fresh year-round. It’s ideal for a sunny patio pot and adds serious zest to your garden and kitchen. Supplied in a 22cm pot, 55–75cm tall, with fruit.
Citrus ‘Lemon’ Tree with Fruits
Nothing beats picking your own lemons! This evergreen tree looks stunning and fruits reliably, even indoors. It brings fragrant blooms, juicy citrus, and year-round beauty. Move it inside for winter, where it’ll happily flower again. Supplied in a 22cm pot, 55–75cm tall, with fruit.
Citrus ‘Rainbow Orange’ Tree with Fruits
A feast for the eyes and the senses – this striking citrus bears blood oranges with a unique striped appearance. The fruit ripens into rich red tones, offering flavour as bold as its looks. Fragrant flowers and evergreen leaves keep the tree looking good all year. Supplied in a 22cm pot with fruit, ready to enjoy.
This elegant little tree is the definition of Mediterranean chic. Compact, hardy down to -8C, and evergreen – it’s perfect for framing doorways or dressing up patios. Grow it in a sunny, sheltered spot and you may even get fruit in a warm summer. Supplied in an 18cm pot, 55–75cm tall, ready to plant.
Pittosporum ‘Nanum’
Glossy evergreen foliage, natural compact shape, and creamy white, citrus-scented flowers – what more could you want? ‘Nanum’ is ideal for pots or borders and thrives with minimal care. It adds structure and fragrance while requiring very little in return. Supplied in an 18cm pot, 40–55cm tall, ready to plant.
Sicilian Fig Mini Standard
This mini standard fig brings big Mediterranean flavour to even the smallest garden. Lush leaves, architectural form, and sweet, juicy fruit in late summer – what’s not to love? It’s happy in a pot and tough enough for the UK with a bit of winter protection. Supplied in an 18cm pot, 60–80cm tall, ready to plant.
Bird of Paradise – Strelitzia augusta
If you’re looking for indoor drama, the Bird of Paradise delivers. Towering, tropical foliage and the potential for bird-like white blooms make this a real statement plant. Despite its exotic looks, it’s surprisingly easy to grow. Just give it light and occasional water. Supplied in a 21cm pot, 110–150cm tall, ready to plant.
