A wide verandah helps keep the house cool. : French country garden at home in Oz

A colonnade by the pond supports a Parthenocissus, whose leaves turn to flame in autumn. : French country garden at home in Oz

Ruth Irving bred this deep blue pride of Madeira, Echium candicans Al-Ru. : French country garden at home in Oz

The riotous colour of a Scarlet O'Hara bougainvillea contrasts with cool greens of evergreen magnolia (left) and oak trees. : French country garden at home in Oz

Cardoons are an easy-care choice for silver accents. : French country garden at home in Oz

An arch is festooned with sweet-scented Pierre de Ronsard roses. : French country garden at home in Oz

Thick underplanting - in this spot with New Zealand rengarenga lilies - helps retain moisture and keep the woodland cool-looking. : French country garden at home in Oz

A seat at the end of an earth path. : French country garden at home in Oz

A resident peacock adds an exotic touch. : French country garden at home in Oz

Poppies, daisies and sweet peas alongside the pool, while bougainvillea climbs the pool house. : French country garden at home in Oz