Helleborus – Charlton and Blackheath Amateur Horticultural Society

The March 2026 meeting had an energetic, spring-like atmosphere, with great attendance from members old and new as well as a number of guests. Thanks to all who took the opportunity to renew their membership for the year. We welcomed Lynne Moore of Moore & Moore Plants, who gave an inspiring and informative talk on plants for shade.

Everyone enjoyed refreshments, took part in the raffle, bought plants and seeds, collected their potato for the autumn potato growing competition and, of course, there was the regular Show Table. And what a lovely display there was this month – thanks to all who brought in their joyful and interesting plants and flowers:

We hope you enjoy a spring walk around the walled gardens at Charlton House! Look out for:

Daffodil (Narcissus ‘Elka’)

Narcissus 'Elke' in the Peace Garden at Charlton House

A fragrant, small and early-flowering daffodil, you can spot Narcissus ‘Elka’ spreading gently in the Peace Garden. It has pale petals and a creamy yellow trumpet. The name ‘Elka’ comes from a combination of the names of two ‘lady daffodil growers’: Elizabeth and Kate.

Wood spurge (Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae)

Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae (wood spurge / Mrs Robb's Bonnet) in the Old Pond Garden, Charlton House, March 2024

Wood spurge is in the Euphorbia family, so take care! If the stems are broken, they gush with a thick milky latex substance that can cause irritation. They are handsome perennial plants, shade loving, with zingy lime-green flowers in late Spring and rosettes of glossy dark green leaves. Another name for this plant is ‘Mrs Robb’s Bonnet’ – we would like to see the hat that inspired that name!

Tag: Helleborus

March 2026 Meeting and Show Table

What to look out for in the Old Pond Garden: March 2026

Daffodil (Narcissus ‘Elka’)

Wood spurge (Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae)