A Clapham garden where every inch is filled with lush planting

‘Nothing is parallel or symmetrical in this garden,’ Christopher says. ‘Years ago, I started to lay things out with symmetry, but I now actually prefer to break up the symmetry, using different
structural elements to bounce through the garden and lead the eye. I think it makes a small space seem bigger. You can get lost in this garden – you can’t quite see exactly where the boundaries are.’

Cristopher reviewing his garden.

Alister Thorpe

In terms of flowering time, the garden is designed to peak late, towards the end of summer and into autumn. ‘There is always so much going on in the garden world in spring and early summer,’
Christopher explains. ‘I prefer a garden that comes into its own between July and November, when people have more time on their hands to appreciate it.’

A kiwi vine overhangs a small reflecting pool.

Alister Thorpe

Late-flowering salvias, including deep purple ‘Amistad’, blue ‘Mystic Spires’ and brick-red Salvia confertiflora, are woven in among exotic evergreens such as tetrapanax, while statement pots of eucomis, agave and arthropodium create focal points up and down the garden. But, true to the variable nature of this space, these plants may be moved on next year to make space for new specimens, the pots juggled around to create the ever-changing vista that Christopher prefers outside his back door.