Big Plant Nursery

Big Plant Nursery, a nursery for hardy exotic plants in West Sussex

Big Plant Nursery is a British nursery dedicated to promoting, growing, sourcing and supplying hardy, architectural and rare exotic plants from temperate regions around the world. The project began in the winter of 1999, when its founder, Bruce Jordan, who worked as a garden designer and plant collector, ran out of space in his home nursery and rented a small area within an existing nursery.

Since those early days, the company has exhibited at shows across the country, won a gold medal at Hampton Court and established itself, according to its own presentation, as one of the UK's foremost innovators in hardy exotic, architectural and Mediterranean plants.

Plant catalogue

The nursery organises its range into a broad classification of plant types, including:

• Agaves, cacti and succulents
• Bamboo (including Fargesia and Phyllostachys varieties)
• Bananas and gingers
• Big leaves
• Choice shrubs and trees
• Citrus and olive trees
• Climbers and coastal plants
• Ferns and tree ferns
• Flowers and grasses
• Ginkgos and conifers
• Japanese maples and Lagerstroemia
• Hardy and exotic palms
• Spikey and drought-tolerant plants
• Shade plants and tender plants
• Sundries and gift wraps

The shop also includes a bare root category and a category for new arrivals recently added to stock.

Own production and international grower network

The company produces many of its own plants and works closely with growers abroad. With more than ten employees, it sends plants all over the UK. Its team describes itself as well travelled and constantly searching for new ideas and varieties to offer for sale, while maintaining high standards of cultivation and advice.

Jungle Tea Room

The nursery has its own tea room, the Jungle Tea Room, which offers a selection of snacks, cakes, treats and coffee. The tea room is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Visiting the nursery

The site has its own parking; during busy periods it may be necessary to park on the roadside, which the company notes is normal and no problem. Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome, with no loose dogs, and owners are asked to prevent their animals from urinating on plants or fixtures; water is available on request and owners are asked to pick up any mess.

Environmental commitment

The company states that it is mindful of environmental concerns and strives to promote sustainability wherever possible. Among the causes it declares it supports are the state of the seas and the birds and fish that depend on them, with support for marine conservation and albatross protection campaigns.

Location and contact

Big Plant Nursery Limited, Hole Street, Ashington, West Sussex RH20 3DE · Phone: 01903 891466 · Email: enquiries@bigplantnursery.co.uk · Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 09:00 to 17:00; Sunday 10:00 to 16:00; bank holidays 10:00 to 16:00