Viburnum plicatum ‘Mariesii’, or the Japanese snowball bush, has wonderful white lacecap-like flowers on horizontally tiered branches in May-June. The dark green leaves turn red-purple in autumn and I always think plants that give two seasons of interest are good value. This beautiful, deciduous shrub makes an excellent specimen plant for a sunny spot or mixed border. Give it plenty of space as it can grow up to 3 metres in the right conditions. It’s easy to grow, and the distinctive, horizontal habit works particularly well in a Japanese-style garden.