Rare variety on display at Chelsea Flower Show

Today (May 24th) marks the beginning of the world renowned Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show.

Garden and greenhouse enthusiasts from around the world visit the event each year in the hope of picking up hints and tips from some of the industrys top experts.

However, another attraction at the show is likely to wow crowds on the opening day, with Horticulture Week reporting that the rare Sinocalycalycanthus raulstonii Hartlage Wine will be shown at the London event for the first time.

Appearing at the Hillier Nurseries stand, the plant is sure to attract a great deal of attention, according to the companys managing director Andy McIndoe.

"Its very much a specialist nursery plant because the guy who raised them [Richard Hartlage of JC Raulston Arboretum in North Carolina] only gave it to friends, so thats how we got it, through Robert Hillier," he explained.

The rare plant has red wine-coloured flowers that feature cream petals around a deep burgundy centre.

It can be seen in bloom from May until September and Mr McIndoe described it as being like Florida in bud form.

The RHS show is taking place at Royal Hospital in the capital and will run until Saturday (May 29th).