In Autumn 2023 we were approached by Duns Community Council to ask if we could think of any where we could add the Beacon, which had been placed on Duns Law by Duns Festival Committee to commemorate the Queens Platinum Jubilee. After lots of discussion and with the help of Scottish Borders Council, the corner of the park by the gates at Boston Court was decided as the ideal place as the tree in that corner had died and was being cleared away. The Beacon now stands proud and high in the corner and is a brilliant centre piece for the surrounding plants. We have tried to choose plants with red, yellow and orange foliage and flowers to give the ‘fire’ theme, although, as time goes on this will no doubt change! The bed was completed by Spring 2024 and we look forward to seeing it mature.
 |
Robust & Reliable --- Astilbe ‘Mighty Chocolate Cherry’ | This eye-catching variety of Astilbe grows to over 1m tall once established and has tall spires of fabulously feathery plumes in a gorgeous cherry-syrup shade of red. The flowers last for several weeks during summer and, best of all, this plant is really low maintenance. Commonly know as ‘false goat’s beard’ astilbes are fully hardy, reliable and produce results which are energetic even in the first year. It will grow in damp shady places where other plants may struggle but this variety will also grow in a sunny position, as long as the soil is kept damp – it does not like to dry out! |
 |
Wildlife Welcomer --- Geum | We have chosen yellow and orange varieties of this easy to grow lovely plant. Commonly known as Avens it produces bright yellow, red or orange flowers on long green stems over a lower mound of pretty green foliage. The flowers, which can be 3cm across, are beloved of bees and other insect pollinators. After flowering the leaves remain fresh and green. These plants are semi-evergreen and perennial and are a ‘must have’ plant for any garden. |
 |
Fantastic Foliage --- Pieris | We have chosen a few different varieties of this wonderful every green shrub, but they all have one thing in common – striking red new foliage in the Spring. The foliage then turns shades of pink and white before relaxing in to its summer green. Many of the varieties also have clusters of pendant white flowers, which last for months and which the bees absolutely love, making this also a candidate for ‘Wildlife Welcomer’! They enjoy both full sun and partial shade so perfect for most gardens. These are slow growing plants reaching a maximum height of 2m with a spread of 1m. They are also happy in a woodland setting so are extremely versatile. |
 |
Fantastic Foliage --- Kniphofia "Red Hot Poker" | The Kniphofia, which is also known as Torch Lily or Red Hot Poker, comes in many sizes and growth habits and also is not necessarily red! The variety we have planted in this bed is called Grandiflora and is red at the top fading to yellow as you go down the flower head. In the UK the blooms tend to be at their best in summer carrying on in to the Autumn and, although the leaves are not spectacular, the architectural appearance of the ‘poker’ flower stands out in any garden setting. If you are reading this in 2024 when we have just planted this new bed you will not enjoy the glory of this summer flowering plant as it does take a few years to establish, however, if you make your way back to the Park Bed you will see examples of Kniphofia in the far corner. |
The next stop on our flower bed trail is the final bed at 12. This is Wojtek the Bear in the Market Square. To return to the Market Square turn around and follow the path and sign posts. You will pass the Bowling Green on your right. Keep walking and you will reach a walled walkway that leads uphill directly into the Market Square.
However if you wish you can extend your tour and walk or drive along to our Tammy Tyre planter and our Bee Wild wildflower bed. Both of these are indicated on the map. They are located further along Station Road on the left as you head out of Duns. Tammy Tyre is at the entrance to the Industrial Estate and Bee Wild is further along on Cheeklaw.
Disclaimer
Our plants are grown for ornamental purposes only. We do not advise touching or ingesting any parts of the plants on the Duns Flowerbed Trail. Many plants can be an irritant or toxic when smelt, ingested or touched. All the ‘Did you know?’ information about alternative plant use is provided for educational interest only.