London Pride as it was known locally was the first plant to colonise the bomb sites. This was during the blitz. the World War II bombing of London. A tall purple flowered weed, called Rose-Bay Willow Herb or the Fireweed.

London PrideThe irony of its rapid and perky appearance in the rubble was much enjoyed. The plant soon became the symbol of London’s resistance to the bombing. It was an excellent symbol, being everything that Londoners were at that time, boldly cheerful, resilient, cocky, undefeated, life-affirming, defiant, courageous, and like all weeds, potent and deep-rooted. – Beryl Kingston (London Pride)


London Pride (Saxifraga x urbium), also known as St. Patrick’s Cabbage, is a charming and resilient perennial plant that adds a touch of elegance to any garden. With its low-growing, compact habit and dense rosettes of deep green, slightly serrated leaves, London Pride creates a lush carpet of foliage.

What truly sets London Pride apart is its delightful display of delicate, star-shaped flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The blooms emerge on slender stalks, rising above the foliage, and showcase shades of rosy-pink, often with a touch of white. The flowers not only attract pollinators like bees and butterflies but also provide a captivating visual spectacle.

Native to the woodlands and shady areas of Western Europe, this plant thrives in partially shaded locations with well-draining soil. It is a hardy plant, tolerant of varying conditions and able to withstand some drought. Its adaptability, coupled with its compact size and eye-catching flowers, makes London Pride an ideal choice for rockeries, borders, and containers, adding a touch of beauty and charm to any outdoor space.