Though flowers attract attention to garden plants, these are often fleeting. Some species, however, produce ornamental fruiting seed capsules that last much longer
‘Pods’ are typically associated with members of the pea family. However, the term is often used for other plants with pod-like seed capsules and fruits. Some of these are attractive, and so make valuable additions to the ornamental garden.
Trees
By August Catalpa bignonioides (Indian bean tree) is often covered with clusters of slender pods. These are initially green and can be up to 30cm (12in) long, before turning brown and releasing their seed. At the same time of year, Koelreuteria paniculata (golden rain tree) can produce spectacular displays of inflated, red-tinged fruit capsules; while Paulownia tomentosa (foxglove tree) has large acorn-shaped seed capsules. All three trees benefit from a sheltered, warm spot to bear a good crop of pods.
Shrubs
One of the most curious podded plants grown in gardens is Decaisnea fargesii (dead man’s fingers): its plump fruits are a dull, deep blue and have slightly uneven texture. In contrast, Staphylea pinnata (bladdernut) bears elegant strings of shapely green fruits.
More vibrant colours are offered by spindles. Euonymus hamiltonianus subsp. hians ‘Red Elf’ bears dark pink fruit that split open to reveal red-coated seeds. Likewise, E. europaeus ‘Red Cascade’ has red fruits with orange seeds.
Climbers
The fruit of Akebia quinata (chocolate vine) start off plump and green, but then ripen to an attractive violet purple (although sadly they are not reliably produced in UK conditions). Celastrus orbiculatus is a twining, woody climber that bears orange fruits which burst open to show the red seeds inside. For the best fruit, choose C. orbiculatus Hermaphrodite Group, as it does not require a pollinator.
Annuals
Sow Nigella damascena (love-in-a-mist) and Nicandra physalodes (apple of Peru) just once and they should obligingly self-sow each year. Both have graceful seeds capsules. Alternatively, try raising Cleome from seed for seed pods on wand-like stalks that project from the main stem.
Perennials
For unusual pods in a shady border, try Iris foetidissima. Its large capsules split in autumn to display orange-scarlet seeds. In sunny spots, grow agapanthus for heads of pendulous pods and Paeonia mascula, which has starry, red capsules dotted with jet-black seeds.