hardy in the midlands???

am looking at getting a some 'exotic' type plants and from various bits I have read where I am they are borderline as to their being kept out in the garden and surviving winter so wondered if any of you have grown these in similar circumstances.

the first is downsized version of gunnera - gunnera tinctoria which is a bit smaller than the usual one

the other plant is a phormium tenax.

your views would be very helpful. thanks

 

Phormium tenax is very hardy, so is the gunnera manicata but don't know about the tinctoria. You can only try and see what happens!

 

Harlow Carr (RHS site) grows the big Gunnera here in Yorkshire, which must be a bit colder. But they cover the crown with the old leaves in winter.

 

thanks for the replies.just wasnt sure aboutthe midlands but I guess if I proptect it it may stand a better chance.

 

thanks for the replies.just wasnt sure aboutthe midlands but I guess if I proptect it it may stand a better chance.

 

I think if your'll willing to give plants a little fleece coat in winter you could try almost anything although sometimes you have to be brave....me I'm just waiting for this cold weather to go and then it's off to the garden centre to get started on my little jungle theme.Hel.xxx.