Future Plants by Randy Stewart

Purple Rock Cress

2012-02-04T15:08:00.009-05:00

Aubrieta deltoidea
A mat-forming, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 4 ( usually much lower ) feet. It is popular as a landscape plant and always looks great trailing over a low stone wall.
The small, toothed, wedge-shaped leaves are mid-green.
The very abundant flowers, up to 1 inch across, range from pink to reddish-pink, violet or purple.
They are borne during mid to late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on neutral to alkaline, well drained soil.
They should be cut back hard after blooming to maintain vigor.
Plants grown from seed may be variable in bloom color.

* videos found on Youtube

'Argenteovariegata'
A mat-forming, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 inches x 3 feet.
The foliage is variegated creamy-white.
The intense mid-blue flowers are borne during spring.

'Aurea'
A low growing, evergreen perennial, reaching up to 8 inches in height.
The foliage is edged in golden-yellow.
The blue-violet flowers are borne during spring.

'Bengal'
Mat-forming, evergreen perennials with either lavender, deep reddish-pink or purple flowers borne mid to late spring.

'Bob Saunders'
The double flowers are reddish-purple, it is otherwise identical to the species.

'Bressingham Pink'
The double flowers are pink, it is otherwise identical to the species.

'Bressingham Red'
The flowers are large and rosy-red, it is otherwise identical to the species.

'Dr Mules'
The flowers are deep blue-violet, it is otherwise identical to the species.

'Greencourt Purple'
The purple flowers are large and double, it is otherwise identical to the species.

'Gurgedyke'
The flowers are deep purple, it is otherwise identical to the species.

'Red Carpet'
Bright red flowers.

'Royal Blue'
A mat-forming, evergreen perennial, reaching up to 6 inches x 3 + feet.
The flowers range from lavender to blue to violet.
It is among the best perennials for trailing over walls.

'Royal Red'
A mat-forming, evergreen perennial, reaching up to 6 inches x 2 + feet.
The flowers range from intense purplish-pink, red or purple.

'Variegata'
The foliage is green and edged in silvery-white, it is otherwise identical to the species.

'Wanda'
The flowers are double and bright red, it is otherwise identical to the species.

'Whitewell Gem'
A mat-forming, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 3 + feet.
The violet-blue flowers are borne during mid to late spring.

Vancouveria

2012-02-04T14:42:00.008-05:00

Vancouveria

Vancouveria chrysantha

* text coming soon

* video found on Youtube

Vancouveria hexandra
A vigorous, rhizomatous, semi-evergreen perennial, reaching up to 20 inches x 3 + feet, that is native to forests from Washington State to northwest California.
The leaves, up to 16 inches in length, are divided into up to 27 leaflets, up to 1 x 0.6 inches in size. The foliage is bright green.
The nodding white flowers are borne late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in shade on moist soil. It is surprisingly heat tolerant in the southeastern U.S.

Persian Shield

2012-02-04T14:42:00.006-05:00

Strobilanthes

A genus of tropical perennials that are part of the larger Acanthaceae family.

Strobilanthes atropurpurea ( Hardy Persian Shield )
Also called Strobilanthes wallichii or Ruellia alata. A perennial, reaching up to 6.5 x 4 ( rarely over 5 ) feet in height, that is native to the Himalayas from Pakistan to China; south into southeast Asia.
The ovate to elliptical leaves, up to 6.5 x 2.5 inches in size, are luxuriant mid-green.
The bluish-purple, tubular flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are borne on dense spikes during mid summer to mid autumn.
Hardy zones 8 to 11 ( est. ).

Strobilanthes dyer ( Persian Shield )
A tropical shrub, reaching up to 10 feet, that is native to Burma. Outside the tropics, it is grown as a perennial, reaching up to 6 x 5 feet, in zone 9. It is also used as a fast growing annual in temperate climates that is planted outside after the risk of frost has passed. An an annual, it will rarely exceed 3 feet in size.
In temperate climates it is most commonly seen in patio containers, mixed with blue or white flowering trailing plants.
The Persian Shield is very commonly seen in the U.S. in south Florida.
The thick leaves, up to 10 inches in length, are deep blue-green and richly variegated with bright purple. The foliage is solidly bright purple beneath.
The flowers are pale purple but rarely occur outside the tropics.
It thrives in partial shade on moist, fertile, humus-rich, well drained soil.
It is not tolerant of road salt or ocean salt breezes but is otherwise easy to grow anywhere summers are sufficiently hot and humid.

* photo taken on Aug 25 2011 @ Scott Arboretum, Swarthmore College, PA

Valeriana

2012-02-04T14:41:00.003-05:00

Valeriana

Valeriana arizonica
A dense, compact, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet, that is native to the western United States.
It spreads due to its creeping rhizome.
The fleshy, oval leaves, up to 3 inches in length, are deep green.
The abundant, pale pink flowers are borne on corymbs up to 6 inches across, during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 7 in full sun.

Valeriana montanas ( Dwarf Valerian )
A tufted, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 10 x 10 inches.
The basal leaves are entire yet the stem leaves are pinnate.
The pink or white flowers are borne on small, rounded clusters atop thick stalks during early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun.

Valeriana officinalis ( Common Valerian )
A fast growing to invasive perennial, reaching a maximum size of 7 x 4 feet, that is native to Eurasia.
The compound leaves, up to 8 inches in length, are composed of lance-shaped leaflets, up to 2.8 inches in length. The foliage is mid-green.
The white to pink to purplish-pink flowers are borne on flat inflorescenes.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist, fertile, acidic to neutral soil.
Pharmacology: this is the Valerian that is often used in herbal sleep remedies.

* videos found on Youtube

Valeriana phu
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 3.3 feet, that is native to western Asia.
The broad leaves, up to 7 inches in length, are deeply-cut.
The white flowers are borne on huge dense panicles up to 2 feet across.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun.

'Aurea'
The foliage is yellow at first, later turning to bright lime-green.

Valeriana sambucifolia
A fast growing, erect perennial, reaching up to 5 x 2 feet.
The divided leaves are deep green.
The pale pink flowers are borne on branched flat heads during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun.

Valeriana saxatilis ( Dwarf Valerian )
A tufted, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 8 x 8 inches.
The basal leaves are entire yet the stem leaves are pinnate.
The pink or white flowers are borne on small, rounded clusters atop thick stalks during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun.

Himalayan Parsley

2012-02-04T14:39:00.004-05:00

Selinum tenifolium

An extremely long-lived perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 2 feet, that is native to the Himalayas. It is related to Cow-Parsley and resembles it in appearance.
This is not the same as the garden parsley that is often eaten.
The extremely fine-textured, dissected foliage is deep green.
The lovely, large lacy white flower heads are an added attraction.
Thrives on moist fertile soil.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist, well drained soil.

Ruellia

2012-02-04T14:38:00.006-05:00

A genus of perennials, that are often referred to as "petunias" though are usually much more permanent, bushier and with colors in shades of blue.

Ruellia brittoniana ( Mexican Petunia )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 58 x 75 inches, that is native from southern Mexico to northern Argentina. It is now also running wild in the U.S. in parts of Texas, the Gulf Coast and in Florida.
The leaves, up to 12 x 0.8 inches, are luxuriant mid-green.
The violet-blue, petunia-like flowers are borne late spring through early autumn.
The flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Hardy zones 7 to 11 in full sun to partial shade on just about any soil, wet or dry, sand or clay. It performs very well in the deep south and on moist, fertile soil may become invasive.
It is deer resistant. Propagation is from seed, cuttings or division after the first autumn frost.

* videos found on Youtube

Ruellia humilis ( Wild Petunia )
A shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 3 feet, that is native to woodlands in the midwest U.S. ( Nebraska to Michigan to New Jersey; south to Texas to the Florida panhandle ) where it is rare.
The oval leaves are up to 4 inches in length, are mid-green.
The lavender-blue flowers, up to 3 x 2 inches in size, are borne all summer long. The flowers resemble petunias.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Tolerant of reflected heat and dry shade.

'Blue Shade'
Reaches a maximum height of only 10 inches but is wide spreading in habit, rooting by creeping stems.

Paris

2012-02-04T14:37:00.007-05:00

Paris
A genus of rhizomatous perennials, that are related to the Trillium.
These plants are poisonous, no part of them should ever be eaten.
They prefer a moist, shady, woodland environment. They are tolerant of limestone soils.

Paris chinensis
A perennial, reaching a height of 6 feet or more, that is native to Taiwan.
The upright stems bear a handsome whorl of large leaves at a height of 5 feet.
Hardy zones 6 to 10 in partial to full shade. It is recommended for the southeastern U.S.

Paris polyphylla
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 2 feet.
The upright stems bear a handsome whorl of leaves up to 8 inches in length.
The yellow and green ( with violet-purple stigmas ) flowers, up to 4 inches in length, are borne during summer. They are followed by red fruits.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in partial to full shade.

Paris quadrifolia ( Herb Paris )
A fast growing perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 2 feet, that is native to Europe.
The leaves are up to 6 ( rarely over 5 ) inches in length.
The yellowish-green flowers are borne during late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in partial to full shade.

Pinckneya

2012-02-04T14:37:00.006-05:00

Pinckneya

Pinckneya pubens
A very fast growing shrub or small tree, reaching a maximum size of 20 feet, that is native to swamplands in southern Georgia and northern Florida. It is endangered with extinction in the wild. Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 5 feet; largest on record - 40 feet with a trunk diameter of 1.5 feet.
The oppositely-arranged, smooth-edged, elliptical leaves, up to 8 x 4 inches, are glossy mid-green.
The creamy-white, tubular flowers, up to 3 inches in length, are borne in clusters, up to 12 inches across, that include leaf-like pink bracts. While in bloom, it appears like a tree-like Poinsettia.
The flowers are followed by 2-celled, rounded brown capsules.
The scaly bark is light brown.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( -3 F will kill off anything above ground but it may tolerate temperatures as low as -10 F when grown as a perennial. The Pinckneya thrives in full sun to partial shade on moist, acidic soil. In mild climates it may be trained as a single trunk tree by removing root suckers as well as removing lower branches during winter.

'Bostwick'
White flower bracts.

'Larry's Party'
The pink flower bracts persist over a long season lasting up to 6 weeks.

Cliff Green

2012-02-04T14:36:00.003-05:00

Paxistima canbyi

A rare, slow stolon spreading, low evergreen, groundcover shrub, reaching up to 1 foot in height, that is native to the Appalatian Mountains in the eastern U.S. where it is endangered with extinction. Some records include: 3 years - 1 x 3.5 feet. It makes an excellent low edging hedge.
The small, toothed leaves are up to 1.3 inches in length. The fine-textured foliage is leathery and glossy deep green, turning to bronze during winter.
The flowers and fruits are very small and are not very showy.
The stems are square.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun ( or partial shade in hot summer climates ) on dry, acidic soil only. It is tolerant of wind and salt breezes making it a good plant for seaside areas.
Cut back hard every few year to maintain vigor and dense habit.

Paxistima myrsinites ( Oregon Boxwood )
A dense, spreading, evergreen shrub, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 6 ( rarely over 2.5 ) feet, that is native to forests of western North America ( British Columbia and south to northern Mexico; east to the Rocky Mountains ). Some records include: 3 years - 2 x 5 feet.
The oppositely-arranged, toothed, oval leaves are up to 1.3 inches in length.
The leathery, foliage is bright green at first, later turning to glossy deep green.
The flowers and fruits are very small and are not very showy.
The stems are square.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in partial shade on moist, acidic, well drained soil. It is tolerant of wind and salt breezes making it a good plant for seaside areas.
Cut back hard every few year to maintain vigor and dense habit.
Propagation is from seed or cuttings.

Black Foot Daisy

2012-02-04T14:34:00.003-05:00

Melampodium leucanthemum
A mounding perennial, reaching up to 1 foot x 20 inches, that is native to the western U.S.
The white flowers, up to 1 inches across, are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on sandy, very well drained soil that is mulched in gravel. It does not like clay.

Pineapple Guava

2012-02-04T14:33:00.010-05:00

Feijoa sellowiana
Also called Acca sellowiana, it is the lone species of Feijoa within the Myrtaceae family. It is a rapid growing, small tree, reaching a maximum size of 33 x 33 feet, that is native to high elevations in South America ( from Columbia to southern Brazil; south to Uruguay to northern Argentina. In cooler climates, it is more often found as a shrub.
The attractive leaves, up to 3 x 1.6 inches, are glossy deep green above, white felted beneath.
The white to pink ( with deep red stamens ) flowers are up to 1.6 inches across.
The edible flowers are often added to fruit salads.
The flowers attract hummingbirds.
They are followed by aromatic, oval fruits, up to 4 inches in length, are reddish-green. The flesh is white on the edible fruits. While some varieties are self-fertile, others need multiple plants for pollination.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 in full sun. It gains hardiness as it ages, older plants may
tolerate as low as 5 F ). It is known to grow in the British Isles as far north as western Scotland, however temperatures below 16 F will eliminate fruit production for that year. The Pineapple Guava requires hot summers for good fruit production.

* videos found on Youtube

'Variegata'
Foliage is edged in white.

Perennial Forget-Me-Not

2012-02-04T14:33:00.002-05:00

Cynoglossum

Cynoglossum nervosum
A bushy, upright perennnial, reaching up to 2.5 x 2 feet.
The leaves are oblong.
The intense blue flowers are borne over a period up to 4 weeks during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun or partial shade on well drained soil.

Maryland Golden Aster

2012-02-04T14:32:00.002-05:00

Chrysopsis mariana

A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 3 feet, that is native to the eastern U.S. ( Ohio to New York; south to eastern Texas to Florida ).
The foliage is silvery. The bright yellow flowers are borne late summer to mid autumn. The flowers are followed by fluffy seed heads.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on dry, well drained soil.
Plants can be cut back during early summer for a shorter, sturdier habit.

Pearly Everlasting

2012-02-04T14:30:00.007-05:00

Anaphalis margaritacea ( Pearly Everlasting )
A fast growing to invasive perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 4 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to North America and eastern Asia.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 5.5 inches in length, are whitish-gray.
The abundant, white flowers are borne on loose heads during late summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 2 to 9 in full sun on very well drained soil. Too much moisture may cause rot during winter. Clumps should be divided every 3 years during autumn or spring to maintain vigor.

* photo of unknown internet source

Anaphalis nubigena
A low growing, compact perennial, reaching a maximum size of 8 inches x 3 feet.
It makes a great plant for the rock garden.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 5.5 inches in length, are silvery.
The abundant, white flowers are borne on loose heads during late summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on very well drained soil. It is very drought tolerant. Too much moisture may cause rot during winter. Clumps should be divided every 3 years during autumn or spring to maintain vigor.

Anaphalis triplinervis
A fast growing to invasive perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 x 3 ( rarely over 2 ) feet, that is native to the Himalayas.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 8 inches in length, are silvery above, densely hairy beneath.
The abundant, white flowers are borne on loose heads during late summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 2 to 9 in full sun on moist, well drained soil. It is not drought tolerant. Clumps should be divided every 3 years during autumn or spring to maintain vigor.

Anaphalis yedoensis ( Japanese Pearly Everlasting )
An erect perennial, reaching a maximum size of 32 inches x 4 feet, that is native to the Himalayas and Japan.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are silvery.
The abundant, white flowers are borne on flat heads over a long season lasting from mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun on very well drained soil. Too much moisture may cause rot during winter. Clumps should be divided every 3 years during autumn or spring to maintain vigor.

Yellow Asphodel

2012-02-04T14:30:00.006-05:00

Asphodeline lutea
A rhizomatous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 3.3 ( rarely over 4 x 2 ) feet, and is native to the Mediterranean.
The narrow, grassy, silvery leaves, up to 12 inches in length, are blue-green.
The fragrant, bright yellow flowers are borne on stiff spikes late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 8 in full sun.

* video found on Youtube

Dracocephalum

2012-02-04T14:29:00.000-05:00

Dracocephalum

Dracocephalum ( Dragonhead )

Dracocephalum arguense
A long-lived perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 x 2 feet, that is native to
The leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The hooded blue flowers are borne on spikes all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun.

'Fuji Blue'
Forms a compact clump, up to 1 x 2 feet. The leathery, needle-like foliage is deep green. The bright blue, tubular flowers are borne on spikes all summer long.

Dracocephalum rupestre
Also called Dracocephalum grandiflorum. A dense, bushy perennial, reaching up to 2 x 2 + feet, that is native to
The leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The intense deep blue flowers are borne mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun.

Dracocephalum ruyschiana
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 2 feet, that is native to northern Eurasia.
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 3 inches in length.
The blue flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade. Drought tolerant.

Leopardbane

2012-02-04T14:28:00.005-05:00

Doronicum

Doronicum austriacum ( Leopardbane )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 4 feet, that is native to central Europe. The cordate-triangular leaves are deep green. The foliage dies down during summer if severe heat or drought occurs.
The yellow, daisy-like flowers, up to 2.4 inches across, are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil. It does not enjoy hot summers. Divide every 2 or 3 years during autumn or early spring to maintain vigor.

Doronicum orientale ( Leopardbane )
Also called Doronicum caucasicum and D. cordatum. It forms a perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 2 feet, that is native to Eurasia. The cordate-triangular leaves are up to 3.2 inches in length. The foliage is deep green. The foliage dies down during summer if severe heat or drought occurs.
The yellow, daisy-like flowers, up to 2 inches across, are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil. It does not enjoy hot summers. Divide every 2 or 3 years during autumn or early spring to maintain vigor.

* video found on Youtube

'Little Leo'
A moderate growing, compact perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 x 18 inches.
The semi-double, bright yellow flowers, up to 3.2 inches across, are borne during very early spring.

'Magnificum'
Fast growing, reaching up to 2.5 x 3 ++ feet, forming wide patches via underground rhizomes.
The large yellow daisies, up to 3.2 inches across, are borne mid to late spring.

'Spring Beauty'
The flowers are very double.

Doronicum pardalianches ( Great Leopardbane )
A fast growing to invasive perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 3.5 ( rarely over 4 x 3 ) feet, that is native to Europe. The cordate-triangular leaves are deep green. The foliage dies down during summer if severe heat or drought occurs.
The yellow, daisy-like flowers, up to 2.4 inches across, are borne on branched stems during spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil. It does not enjoy hot summers. Divide every 2 or 3 years during autumn or early spring to maintain vigor.

'Gold Bunch'
More compact and clumping, only reaching 32 inches in height at most.
The foliage is more persistent during summer heat.

Doronicum plantaginoides ( Leopardbane )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 3 feet, that is native to Europe. The cordate-triangular leaves are hairy and bright green. The foliage dies down during summer if severe heat or drought occurs.
The yellow, daisy-like flowers, up to 2.4 inches across, are borne on branched stems during spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil. It does not enjoy hot summers. Divide every 2 or 3 years during autumn or early spring to maintain vigor.

'Excelsum'
Vigorous, reaching up to 5 feet in height and forming extensive colonies.
The large flowers, up to 5 inches across, are borne 3 to 4 per stem.

2012-02-03T15:17:00.003-05:00

Linum ( Flax )
The only part of the Flax plant that is edible is the seed if it is cooked. Cooking gets rid of the enzyme that produces cyanide. Some Flax is cultivated commercially for use in producing cooking oil.

* photo of unknown internet source

Linum flavum ( Golden Flax )
A fast growing, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 2 x 2 feet.
The narrowly-oval leaves, up to 0.8 inches in length, are deep blue-green.
The abundant golden- yellow flowers, up to 0.8 inches across, that are borne on sprays from early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

Linum hypericifolium
A robust, handsome, clump-forming perennial, reaching up to 16 inches in height.
The fibrous root clumps become tough with age.
Hardy zones 5b to 9 in full sun. Drought tolerant.

Linum lewisii ( Blue Flax )
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 3 feet, that is native to that is native to high mountains of western North America from Alaska to California. It is very similar to Linum perenne.
The seed of this plant was part of Native American diet.
Hardy zones 3 to 6 in full sun on well drained soil.

Linum lyonii
A perennial, reaching up to 1 foot, with blue flowers borne sporadically throughout the summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun.

Linum narbonensis ( Narbonne Flax )
A wiry-stemmed perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 2 feet, that is native to southern Europe.
The narrow, lance-shaped leaves, up to 0.8 inches in length, are gray-green.
The foliage is evergreen in mild climates.
The abundant, bright blue flowers, up to 2 inches across, are borne over a very long season from early summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Very tolerant of drought and also heat tolerant, it prefers a mediterranean climate. Shear after blooming.

Linum perenne ( Blue Flax )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 2 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to the Alps and mountains of southeastern Europe.
The narrow leaves, up to 1 inch in length, are blue-green.
The abundant, bright blue flowers, up to 1 inch across, are borne all summer long.
Can be used in much the same way as Linum usitatissimum.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Very tolerant of drought and also heat tolerant. Shear after blooming.

'Nanum Diamond'
Dwarf, reaching a maximum size of 12 x 15 inches, with pure white flowers borne from late spring into summer, lasting up to 3 months.

'Blue Sapphire'
Reaches a maximum size of 2 x 2 feet, with intense bright blue flowers borne from late spring into summer, lasting up to 3 months.

* photos of unknown internet source

Linum usitatissimum ( Common Flax )
A erect annual plant, reaching a maximum height of 4 feet.
The narrow, lance-shaped leaves, up to 1.6 x 0.1 inches in size, are blue-green.
The flowers are pale blue.
Thrives in full sun on fertile, well drained soil.
The cooked seeds of the Flax are the only part of the plant that can be eaten. Flaxseed is rich in healthy fatty acids including Omega 3 which helps control cholesterol in the body. Flaxseed also called Linseed Oil is also used to make a protective weatherproof paint, varnish and wood preserve.
Only the seed of the Flax plant is edible, the remainder of the plant contains chemicals that form cyanide when ingested. Cyanide poisoning sympytoms indlude oxygen statvation causing rapid breathing, faintness, headaches, coma and death.
Flax plants can cause poisioning when eaten by livestock however the seed cake remaining after flax oil extraction is often used for animal feed and is nutritious.
Flax has also been used in the manufacture of high quality paper.

Campion and Catchfly

2012-02-03T14:52:00.006-05:00

Lychnis

Lychnis alpina ( Arctic Campion )
A short-lived, tufted perennial, reaching up to 9 x 8 inches in size.
It looks great in the rock garden.
The thick foliage is deep green.
The bright to deep pink flowers are borne on heads up to 6 inches across, during late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 1 to 6 in full sun to partial shade on acidic, very well drained soil. Propagation is from seed and it often self seeds.

Lychnis x arkwrightii 'Vesuvius'
A compact perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 x 2 feet.
The leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are reddish at first, turning to deep purplish-green.
The striking, large, orange-red to scarlet-red flowers, up to 2 inches across, are borne during early to mid summer.
The flowers have toothed petals.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil only.
Propagation is from division.

Lychnis chalcedonica ( Maltese Cross )
A long-lived, herbaceous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 2 ( rarely over 4 ) feet, that is native to eastern Europe east to Mongolia and northwest China.
The broad lance-shaped leaves, up to 5 x 2 inches, are green.
The red flowers, up to 1.2 inches across, are borne in rounded clusters of up to 50 all summer long if old flower clusters are deadheaded.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil only.
Propagation is from division or seed. Plants will often repeat bloom during autumn if cut back to a foot in height after the first bloom.

'Alba'
Reaches up to 2 feet, with larger flowers which are pure white.

'Rosea'
Rosy-pink flowers, otherwise identical to the species.

Lychnis cognata ( Orange Catchfly )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, that is native to Korea and northeastern China.
The oval leaves, up to 3 inches in length, are deep green.
The flowers, up to 2.5 inches across, are apricot-orange.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil only.
Propagation is from division or seed.

Lychnis coronaria ( Rose Campion )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 3.5 feet, that is native to southeastern Europe.
The leaves, up to 4 inches in length, woolly, silvery-gray.
The intense purplish-pink flowers, up to 1.6 inches across, are borne on clusters from early summer until autumn frosts.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil only.
It is very tolerant of dry poor soil.
Propagation is from division or seed. It is short-lived but will often self seed.

* video found on Youtube

'Abbotswood Rose'
Deep reddish-pink flowers.

'Alba'
White flowers, otherwise identical.

'Oculata'
The flowers are white with a reddish-pink center. It is otherwise identical to the species.

Lychnis dioica ( Red Campion )
An upright perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 feet x 16 inches.
The foliage is hairy.
The reddish-pink to red-purple flowers, are borne from late spring to early autumn. The flowers have an inflated calyx.
The stems are whitish and hairy.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil only.
Propagation is from division or seed.

'Rubra'
Red flowers, otherwise identical.

Lychnis flos-cuculi
A bushy perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 2.5 feet, that is native to Eurasia.
The red to pale-purple flowers are borne over a period lasting up to 6 weeks during late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil only.
Propagation is from division.

Lychnis flos-jovis ( Flower of Jove )
An upright perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3 feet x 20 inches, that is native to Europe.
The whitish hairy foliage forms a dense tuft.
The scarlet-red flowers, up to 0.4 inches across, are borne on rounded inflorescences, during early to mid summer. The flowers have an inflated calyx.
The stems are whitish and hairy.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil only.
Propagation is from division or seed.

'Alba'
Compact in habit, reaching a maximum height of 20 inches.
The flowers are white.

Lychnis x haageana
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 20 inches x 3 feet.
The ovate leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are mid-green.
The flowers, up to 2 inches across, are orange to scarlet-red.
The petals are toothed.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil only.
Propagation is from division.

Lychnis viscaria ( German Catchfly )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3 x 3 ( rarely over 2 ) feet, that is native from northern Europe to Siberia.
The grass-like, lance-shaped leaves, up to 4.8 inches in length, form a tufted clump.
The deep red, tubular-calyxed flowers, up to 1.2 inches across, form a dense inflorescence. The flowers are borne during late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil only.
Propagation is from division or seed.

'Alba'
White flowers, otherwise identical.

'Splendens Plena'
Deep greenn foliage and double, deep red flowers.

Silene ( Catchfly )

* photos of unknown internet source

Silene acaulis ( Moss Campion )
A low, mat-forming, groundcover perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 inches x 1.5 feet, that is native to Arctic and high mountain climate regions in the Northern Hemisphere. The dense cushion mounds of foliage generate temperatures much warmer than the surrounding environment when the sun is shining.
The small leaves are bright green.
The small, bright pink, very short-stemmed flowers are borne late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on gravelly or sandy, very well drained soil.

'Mt Snowdon'
Low and mossy looking, reaching a maximum size of 3 inches x 1.5 feet.
The purplish-pink flowers are borne during early spring.
Hardy zones 2 to 6.

'Pink Pearl'
Compact in habit, with deep green foliage and abundant, soft pink flowers during late spring to early summer.

'Tatoosh'
Vigorous with a long bloom season lasting for months.

Silene alpestris
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 1 foot. It is great for the rock garden.
The fringed flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

'Flore Plena'
Reaches up to 1 x 1 foot, with double white flowers.

Silene caroliniana

* photo of unknown internet source

Silene dioica

'Clifford's Moore'
Reaches a maximum size of 2 x 2.5 feet.

'Valley High'
Reaches up to 13 x 10 inches, with foliage that is bright green with a bold creamy-white margins. The abundant, rosy-pink flowers are borne late spring into mid autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun on very well drained soil. Do not fertilize.

Silene 'Longwood'
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 10 inches.
The tiny, deeply-notched, pale pink flowers are borne in clusters during late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

Silene maritima 'Swan Lake'
A tufted, dwarf perennial, reaching up to 8 x 12 inches, that resembles Dianthus in appearance. It looks great trailing over a wall or used as edging.
The foliage is gray-green.
The double white flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil.

Silene polypetala ( Eastern Fringed Catchfly )
Also called Silene catesbaei. A deep rooted, rhizomatous perennial, reaching a maximum height of 16 inches, that is native to Georgia and northern Florida where it is endangered with extinction due to habitat loss.
The paired, lance-shaped leaves, up to 3.5 inches in length, are green.
The white or pink, 5-petalled flowers are borne 3 to a cluster.
It thrives on moist, sandy loam in woodland conditions.

* photo of unknown internet source

Silene regia 'Prairie Fire'
A perennial, reaching up to 5 x 2 feet, that is a rare native of the U.S. midwest.
The leaves are up to 5 inches in length.
The very large, intense scarlet-red flowers, up to 2.5 inches across, are borne all summer long. The flowers not only attract hummingbirds, they are a hummingbird magnet.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade preferring moist soil though it is drought tolerant once established.

Silene shafta 'Splendens'
A moderate growing, carpet-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 16 inches. It looks great when used for edging.
The rosy-pink, starry flowers are borne mid summer to mid autumn.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade. It is easy to grow on very well drained soil.

Silene uniflora
A prostrate, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 8 x 8 inches. It looks great cascading over low walls. It is similar in appearance to some of the lower growing Dianthus which it is related.
The thick, fleshy, tiny, oval leaves are bright green.
The large, white flowers, up to 1 inch across, are borne during late spring and summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

'Druett's Variegated'
Reaches a maximum size of 8 inches x 1 + feet, with foliage that is variegated with a white margin. The showy flowers are white.

'Swan Lake'
Reaches a maximum size of 6 x 16 inches, with large, white, double flowers but is otherwise similar to the species.

Silene virginica ( Fire Pink )
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 1.5 feet, that is native to open woodlands in eastern North America ( Minnesota to southern Ontario to New Jersey; south to Oklahoma to Georgia ). It is endangered in Wisconsin, Michigan, Ontario and Florida.
Looks outstanding planted in groups of 3 or 5.
The intense scarlet-red flowers are borne late spring through summer.
The flowers attract Hummingbirds which are their primary pollinator.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.

* photos of unknown internet source

Fireweed

2012-02-03T14:01:00.006-05:00

Epilobium

Epilobium angustifolium ( Fireweed )
A fast growing to invasive perennial, that in the wild colonizes sites left bare after forest fires and rapidly forms a thick mat of spreading roots that prevent erosion by binding the soil. It often forms pure stands covering large areas.
Fireweed, reaches a maximum size of 8 x 8 feet, and is native over large areas in the Northern Hemisphere.
The alternate arranged leaves are narrow and willowy.
The purplish-pink flowers are borne on racemes during summer into early autumn.
It thrives in full sun and is soil tolerant. Propagation is from seed or division and this plant often reproduces itself.
Fireweed is edible and the leaves and stems are rich in Vitamin A and C. The young shoots can be snapped off at the base and cooked a few minutes like Asparagus or chopped and used in salads. The older leaves and stems are bitter.
The flowers and flower buds can be added to salads.
The natives in Siberia made a drink considered to be somewhat between LSD and Gin that was made from brewing a drink with the hullucinogenic mushroom ( Fly Agaric - Amanita muscariai ) and the pith of the Fireweed stems.
Being very rapid growing, the Firewood is useful for Green Manure.
Epilobium hirsutum ( Hairy Willow Herb ), E. latifolium ( River Beauty ) and E. montana are all similarly edible.

* photo of unknown internet source

* videos found on Youtube

Epilobium fleisheri
A long-lived, mat-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 32 x 20 inches, that is native to the European Alps.
The rose-red flowers are borne on flat-topped clusters during late summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun.

Epilobium hirsutum
A rhizomatous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 7 x 6 + feet, that is native to Eurasia.
The leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The deep red flowers are borne on clusters all summer long.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in full sun on moist soil. It is not drought tolerant.

Snow-in-Summer

2012-02-02T20:09:00.006-05:00

Cerastium

Cerastium alpinum ssp lanatum
A low, spreading perennial, reaching up to 8 x 16 inches.
The flat leaves are gray and woolly.
The starry white flowers are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in full sun. It requires a climate that is cool in summer.

Cerastium biebersteinii ( Taurus Cerastium )
A spreading perennial, reaching up to 16 inches x 2 feet, that is native to Asia Minor. The leaves are up to 2 x 0.3 inches.
The white flowers are borne during late spring into summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in full sun.

Cerastium tomentosum ( Snow-in-the-Summer )

A fast growing to invasive, rhizomatous, spreading, mat-forming, groundcover perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 5 feet, that is native to mountainous parts of Europe. Some records include: first year - width of 3 feet.
On ideal sites it can spread so rampantly that there isn't much other than pavement that will contain it. It can be used as a lawn substitute on large areas, looking good in all seasons.
The foliage is silvery-gray.
The abundant, tiny, pure white flowers are borne from early to mid summer.
It should be clipped back after blooming to prevent the seedpods which can contribute to invasive spread.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in full sun on well drained soil. Drought tolerant and tolerates dry sandy soil, poor soil, drought, fire and deer. It may be prone to pests and diseases in regions with very hot humid summers. Deer resistant.
Shear back after flowering to maintain vigor and dense habit. Propagation is from division during autumn and spring.

* photo taken on Aug 3 2011 @ Hyde Park, NY

'Jumbo Form'
More vigorous with larger leaves making it an excellent substitute for turf grass.
Discovered in Santa Fe, New Mexico by High Country Gardens.

Coffin Cypress

2012-02-02T19:07:00.003-05:00

Taiwania cryptomeroides

Wow what a beautiful tree!!! Why doesn't anybody plant this Taiwanese native? I really can't answer why this obviously hardy very beautiful coniferous tree isn't more widely grown in the U.S. Then again this is why I am here.!!! For the south eastern U.S. and places from Portland to Vancouver on the West Coast - it is the perfect large evergreen landscape tree. It is one of the worlds longest lived trees; is extremely beautiful and is unbothered by insects or disease

The Coffin Cypress is very fast growing ( 43 x 13 feet in 20 years reported in NC ) and single year growth rates of 6.6 feet height increase and 1 inch trunk increase are known. It is almost extinct and logged out of existence in the wild - this tree is in the same family as the California Redwoods and can also grow rediculously huge!!! It can grow to 240 feet tall, 40 feet or more in canopy width, and with a MASSIVE 20 feet in trunk diameter ( up to 33 ft. across at the swollen trunk base ). The crown is conical and had graceful drooping branchlets.
The attractive reddish bark peels in strips and the cypress like foliage is bluish green.
This tree is hardy from zone 7 ( 0F ) and south and loves the hot humid summers of the southeast U.S. It prefers moist, acidic, well drained soils in a place protected from wind in full sun.

* Picture of giant old tree in Taiwan that I found on the internet

* More pics of Taiwania cryptomeroides ( Coffin or Taiwan Cedar ) planted at U.S. National Arboretum in Washington, D.C. - pics taken by myself on Febuary 2009 ( and this vigorously growing young tree will someday be that huge in a few thousand years! )

Taiwania flousiana

An almost identical equally hardy species found in southwest China and Burma. Hardy north to zone 7. The tree in the photo below taken on February 2009 @ U.S. National Arboretum in DC is to date the only one I have seen in the U.S.

* photos taken on 4th of July 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.

Saponaria

2012-02-02T19:06:00.002-05:00

Saponaria

Saponaria 'Bressingham'
A prostrate, spreading perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3 inches x 1 foot.
It makes a great plant for the rock garden.
The foliage is mid-green.
The abundant, tiny, pink flowers are borne early summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on humus-rich, sandy, well drained soil.

Saponaria lempergii ( Giant Flowered Soapwort )
Very vigorous, prostrate, spreading perennial, reaching up to 6 inches x 2 feet.
The leaves, up to 0.5 inches in length, are blue-green.
The very profuse, clear-pink flowers, up to 1 inch across, are borne in large clusters during mid-summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on humus rich, well drained soil. Easy to grow. Deer resistant.

'Max Frei'
A cushion-like perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1.5 x 2 ( rarely over 1 ) foot.
The large, pale rose-pink flowers are borne early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 7 in full sun. Drought tolerant.

Saponaria ocymoides ( Soapwort )
Vigorous, deeply taprooted, long lived, low prostrate perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 3.5 feet ( rarely over 6 inches in height ). It looks great cascading over a wall or large boulders.
The leaves, up to 0.5 inches in length, are bright green.
The very profuse, bright pink flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on humus-rich, light, well drained soil. Clay tolerant, moderately drought tolerant and deer resistant. It does not enjoy hot humid summers or wet soil. Prune hard after flowering to force new shoots.

'Alba'
Same with pure white flowers.

'Rubra Compacta'
Forms a compact, low, creeping mat with very abundant, rich red flowers.

'Snow Tip'
Reaches a maximum size of 10 inches x 2.5 feet, with deep green foliage contrasting with very small, pure white flowers.

Saponaria officinalis ( Bouncing Bet )
A fast growing, upright, clumping perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.5 x 3.5 feet, that is native to much of Europe. It spreads by underground rhizomes to form significant colonies in just a few years.
The lance-shaped to oval leaves, up to 4 x 2 inches, are gray-green to green.
The sweetly-fragrant, pink or white flowers, up to 1.6 inches across, are borne on clusters all summer long.
The flowers attract butterflies.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
Easy to grow and tolerant of heat and humidity. It may be a good idea to confine it or its creeping rhizomes will spread energetically. Shear during late spring for more compact habit. Propagation is from division during autumn or early spring.

'Alba Plena'
Reaches a maximum height of 3.5 feet, with double, white flowers borne during early to mid summer.

'Rosea Plena'
A seedless clone, reaching a maximum height of 3.5 feet, bearing very fragrant, double pink flowers all summer long.

Saponaria x olivana
A low, spreading perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 16 inches, that is the hybrid between Saponaria caespitosa & S. pumilio.
The green foliage forms a low cushion.
The abundant, large pink flowers are borne on short stalks.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

Ranzania

2012-02-02T19:05:00.001-05:00

Ranzania

Ranzania japonica
A perennial, reaching up to 1.5 feet, that is native to mountain forests in northern Japan where it is very rate. It is slow to establish and may take over 5 years for form a substantial size clump.
It is the single member of the Barberidaceae genus which includes Barberries and Mahonias.
The attractive ternate leaves are bright green.
The nodding, bright lavender-pink flowers are borne during mid spring.
They are followed by short lasting white berries that are hidden under the foliage.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 in partial shade on humus-rich soil. Hardy north to at least zone 6 on a protected site. It is easy to grow in woodland conditions.
Propagation from seed is easy and they are sown immediately after ripening.
Mature plants can be carefully divided.

Prairie Mimosa, Bundle Flower & Tick-Trefoil

2012-02-02T19:04:00.012-05:00

Desmanthus

Desmanthus brachylobus ( Illinois Bundleflower )
The roots fix nitrogen enriching the soil and the seeds are rich in protein, making this an excellent potential perennial grain plant.

Desmanthus canadensis ( Showy Tick-Trefoil )
A vigorous, erect perennial, reaching up to 7 ( reports of 9 ) feet in height, that is native to much of North America ( from Alberta to Nova Scotia; south to Oklahoma to Arkansas to Virginia ). It looks best planted in groups rather than as individuals.
The trifoliate leaves are composed of 3 leaflets, up to 4 inches in length. The foliage is blue-green.
The pink to purple flowers are borne on branched inflorescences during mid to late summer.
They are followed by sticky seedpods which may stick to clothes or peoples pets.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on moist soil.

* video found on Youtube

Desmanthus illinoiensis ( Illinois Bundleflower or Prairie-Mimosa )
A woody-based, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 8 x 3 ( rarely over 5 ) feet in height, that is native to central North America ( from North Dakota to Wisconsin to Ohio; south to New Mexico to Alabama ). It is also more recently also spread into the wild in parts of the eastern U.S. It is often late to appear during spring, often emerging during mid May in the Midwest.
The finely-textured, bipinnate leaves resemble that of Albizzia julibrissin ( Mimosa Silk Tree. Each pinnae, up to 4 inches in length, is made of many narrow leaflets. The foliage is luxuriant bright green.
The white puffball flowers are borne during mid-summer.
They are followed by twisted seedpods that curve around each other forming bunched clusters.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun or partial shade ( prefers sun ) on just about any fertile, well drained soil whether clay or sand, moist or dry.
Propagation is from the seed which ripens during early October. It should be soaked in water overnight then sown at room temperature.

Pharmacology: external link ( http://www.erowid.org/library/books_online/ayahuasca_apa/aya_sec3_part2_desmanthus.shtml )

* photos of unknown internet source

* video found on Youtube

Desmanthus leptolobus ( Prairie Bundleflower )
A low spreading perennial, that is native to the south central U.S. ( Nebraska to central Texas ) where it is locally common on well drained prairies as well as disturbed areas. It is very vigorous and may be difficult to eradicate once established.

Barbara Button

2012-02-02T19:04:00.011-05:00

Marshallia grandiflora
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3 x 1.5 ( rarely over 2 ) feet, that is native to eastern North America ( Pennsylvania; south to Tennessee to South Carolina ) where it is rare.
The leaves, up to 8 inches in length, are borne from basal rosettes.
The pink ( with blue-purple anthers ), daisy-like flowers, up to 1.3 inches across, are borne during the summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil.
Easy to propagate from seed, division and cuttings.

Umbrella Plant

2012-02-02T19:03:00.003-05:00

Darmera peltata

Also called Peltiphyllum peltatum. It forms a perennial, reaching a maximum size of 7 x 10 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native from coastal Oregon to northwest California. A clump of Darmera always looks spectacular on the edge of a pond.
The large, coarsely-toothed, deeply lobed, peltata leaves, up to 24 inches across, are glossy deep green turning to scarlet-red during autumn. The deeply-veined leaves are borne on stalks up to 6 feet high.
The starry, pink flowers, up to 0.6 inches across, are borne on dense rounded cymes during mid spring. The flowers are borne atop stems as high as 6 feet before the foliage emerges.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in partial to full shade though surprisingly tolerant of sun, drought and sandy soils. It prefers moist soils however, it even tolerates standing water.

* photo of unknown internet source

Monkey Flower

2012-02-02T19:02:00.006-05:00

Mimulus
A genus of perennials that are part of the larger Scrophulariaceae family.
All parts of the plant are edible but are bitter unless cooked.
Propagation is either from seed or division.

* photo of unknown internet source

Mimulus aurantiacus ( Bush Monkey Flower )
An upright perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 4 feet, that is native to the western U.S. from southern Oregon south through most of California.
The sticky, narrow leaves, up to 3 x 0.3 inches in size, are deep green.
This is a host plant of the Checkerspot Butterfly.
The flowers, up to 0.8 inches, are orangish-yellow ( though sometimes red ).
Hardy zones 8 to 9 in full sun on moist or dry soil. It is more drought tolerant than most species.

* photo of unknown internet source

Mimulus cardinalis
A vigorous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 feet x 27 inches, that is native to the southwestern U.S..
The sticky, toothed leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are downy green.
The scarlet-red, narrow-tubular flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are borne during summer. The flowers have very prominent stamens.
Hardy zones 6 to 10 in full sun to partial shade. It is more tolerant of dry conditions than other species.

Mimulus glutinosus ( Bush Monkey Flower )
A shrubby, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 4 feet, that is native to the western U.S. from Oregon to California.
The sticky, narrow leaves are mid-green.
The deep yellow to orange and red, trumpet-shaped flowers, up to 2 inches across, are borne during summer. The flower petals are notched.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 in full sun. It is more tolerant of dry conditions than other species.

Mimulus guttatus ( Common Monkey Flower )
A rhizomatous, sprawling to upright perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 4 + feet, that is native to North America.
The leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are green.
The yellow ( with red spotted throat ), tubular flowers, up to 2.4 inches in length, are borne on racemes.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on moist soil to shallow fresh water.
Propagation is from seed or division, stems may also root where they touch the soil.

Mimulus x hybrida
The hybrids, mostly between Mimulus guttatus & M. luteus.
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 3 feet.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun on moist to wet soil. Propagation is from division.

'Firedragon'
Orange-red flowers with darker speckling.

'Harlequin'
Multicolored flowers with blooms ranging from yellow to red.

'Malibu Red'
Rich red, larger flowers.

'Puck'
Yellow flowers.

'Rotor Kaiser'
Larger, rich red, trumpet-shaped flowers.

Mimulus lewisii ( (Lewis' Monkeyflower )
A floppy perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 3 feet, that is native to western North America ( from Alaska to California, east to Colorado ).
The sticky, toothed, ovate to elliptical leaves, up to 2.8 inches in length, are grayish-green and hairy.
The rose-red ( rarely white ) flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil.
It does not enjoy temperatures above 85 F eliminating its use in most lowland parts of the eastern U.S. Root rot can be a problem during summer.
Propagation is from division.

Mimulus luteus ( Yellow Musk Flower )
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 x 32 inches, that is native to Chile.
The leaves are up to 1.3 inches in length.
The yellow flowers, up to 2 inches in length, have large reddish-purple blotches.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 in full sun on moist soil or shallow water. Propagation is from division.

Mimulus ringens ( Allegheny Monkey Flower )
A perennial, reaching up to 4 x 5 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to North America ( from North Dakota and Manitoba to Nova Scotia; south to Colorado, Texas and Virginia ).
The narrow leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are green.
The violet-blue to purple ( with yellow splashes ), tubular flowers, up to 1.2 inches in length, are borne all summer long.
The stems are winged.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in partial shade on moist soil to shallow water up to 6 inches in depth. Propagation is from division.

Mitella

2012-02-02T19:02:00.004-05:00

Mitella

Mitella diphylla ( Miterwort )
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 16 inches, that is native to eastern North America ( from Minnesota to Quebec; south to Missouri to Georgia ).
The tiny, creamy-white flowers are borne during the spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in shade on acidic to neutral soil.

Elsholtzia

2012-02-02T19:01:00.003-05:00

Elsholtzia

* photo of unknown internet source

Elsholtzia stauntonii ( Chinese Mint Shrub )
A woody based, bushy perennial, reaching up to 4.5 feet in height.
The minty-fragrant, lance-shaped leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are mid-green.
The violet flowers are borne on panicles, up to 8 inches in length, during late summer and fall.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade. Cut back to near ground level during late winter before new growth begins.

Peltoboynkinia

2012-02-02T19:00:00.002-05:00

Peltoboynkinia

Peltoboynkinia tellimoides
One of a genus of 3 species of perennials, this one is native to forested mountains of the island of Honshu in Japan. It is similar in appearance to Darmera peltata.
The yellow, bell-shaped flowers are borne on cymes atop a stalk up to 3 feet in height.
Hardy zones 6 to 8, easy to grow and hardy in Michigan.

Peltoboynkinia wantanabei
Similar to P. tellimoides that is native to the islands of Shikoku and Kyushu in Japan.

Gas Plant

2012-02-02T18:59:00.006-05:00

Dicthamnus albus

A very long-lived, tough, woody-based perennial, reaching up to 5 x 4 ( rarely over 4 ) feet.
The aromatic pinnate leaves are composed of 9 to 11 toothed oval to elliptical leaflets, up to 3.2 inches in length. The attractive foliage is glossy deep green. The leaves may cause photodermatitis if touched during sunny weather.
The pink or white flowers, up to 1 inch across, are borne on erect inflorescences up to 12 inches in length, during early to mid summer.
They are followed by seed capsules that explode when they ripen.
All parts of the plant release a vapor that can be ignited during summer heat. It does not stay lit for long, however this is a most unusual feature among plants.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Drought tolerant ( even thriving in Kansas ), it actually prefers soils that are somewhat dry, cold winters and hot summers. Easy to grow, once established, the Gas Plant is almost never bothered by insect pests, disease or deer.
Slow to establish, it may take 3 years after planting to put on signicant growth.
Propagation is from seed sown in a cold frame during late summer or autumn. The seedlings can be transplanted while very small. Do not divide as they hate root disturbance.

'Purpureus'
Light purplish-pink flowers.

'Ruber'
Rosy-purple flowers, otherwise identical.

Scutellaria

2012-02-02T18:58:00.002-05:00

Scutellaria

Scutellaria alpina
A perennial, reaching up to 1 x 2 feet.
The bicolor blue and white flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.

Scutellaria biacalensis
A fast spreading to invasive, bushy, woody-based perennial, reaching up to 15 inches x 2 feet. The narrow leaves form a basal rosette.
The bluish-purple flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

Scutellaria frutescens
A low growing perennial, reaching a maximum height of 1 foot.
The leaves are small and ovate.
The rosy-pink flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

Scutellaria incana ( Hoary Skullcap )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 feet, that is native to dry woods in eastern North America ( from Ontario; south to Missouri to Virginia ).
The blue flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Very easy to grow.

Scutellaria orientalis
A long-lived, mat-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1.5 x 1.5 feet, that is native to southeastern Europe.
The attractive, soft, pinnate foliage is gray-green to mid-green.
The yellow ( with red flower lip ) flowers are borne all summer long.
Easy to grow.

Scutellaria resinosa
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Resistant to deer and rabbit.
Drought tolerant as long as it is well watered during the first season.

'Smoky Hills'
Reaches up to 12 x 15 inches, it is larger, longer lived and showier than the species.
The lavender-blue flowers are borne over a long season during summer.

Mespilis

2012-02-02T18:57:00.003-05:00

Mespilis

Mespilis germanica ( Medlar )
A slow growing, small tree.
The waxy green leaves are glowing orange and red in fall.
The very tasty fruit are about the size of a plum. They can be eaten fresh, stewed or made into jelly. For soft tasty fruit, most cultivars are best harvested just after the first fall frost.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 ( tolerating -25 F ).

Patrinia

2012-02-02T18:57:00.002-05:00

Patrinia

Flowers borne during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

Patrinia gibbosa
Reaches up to 1 foot with yellow flowers.

Patrinia scabiosifolia
A long-lived perennial, reaching a maximum size of 7 x 3 feet.
The leaves resemble that of Scabiosa. The foliage turns glowing scarlet-red during autumn.
The flowers are yellow.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade. Heat and drought tolerant. Unfortunately, it is an alternate host for Daylily Rust.
The deep taproot makes it difficult to transplant.

Lycium

2012-02-02T18:56:00.002-05:00

Lycium

The abundantly produced fruits on many can be eaten raw but are usually better dried or cooked. The natives often dried them like raisons and stored them for winter.
Propagation is from seed, layering, suckers or cuttings.

Lycium andersonii ( Andersonii Thornbush )

Lycium barbarum ( Gojiberry, Chinese Wolfberry )
The spiny branches of this plant can be used as a barrier.
The berries are extremely rich in Vitamin A, minerals, amino acids and antioxidents.
A very good beverage can be made from crushing the berries and steeping them in hot water.

Lycium fremontii ( Fremont's Thornbush )

Lycium pallidum ( Box Thorn )

Sea Kale

2012-02-02T18:55:00.005-05:00

Crambe

Crambe cordifolia ( Giant Heartleaf Sea Kale )
A fast growing to invasive, very long-lived, massive perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 7 ( rarely over 8 x 6 ) feet.
The huge, toothed, deeply-lobed, heart-shaped, cabbage-like leaves, up to 3 feet across, are mid-green. The foliage forms a large mound.
The very small, white flowers are borne on airy open panicles, up to 4 feet across, during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on consistently moist, well drained soil.

Crambe maritima ( Sea Kale )
A vigorous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 4 feet; that is native to Europe from the British Isles to the Black Sea.
The thick, fleshy, cabbage-like leaves, up to 24 x 24 inches, are glossy silvery-blue to blue-green.
It is edible, the shoots can be served steamed like Asparagus with melted butter, salt and pepper.
The profuse, white flowers are borne on sprays, up to 2 feet in length, during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on sandy, very well drained soil. The strong deep root system hates transplanting.

* video found on Youtube

Geum

2012-02-02T18:54:00.003-05:00

Geum

Geum chiloense ( Chilean Avens )
A perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 3 ( rarely over 2 x 2 ) feet, that is native to Chile.
The leaves, up to 12 ( rarely over 8 ) inches in length, form a basal rosette.
The bright red, bowl-shaped flowers, up to 2 inches across, are borne during late spring, often repeating during summer if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.

'Borisii'
Reaches a maximum size of 2 x 2 ( rarely over 1.5 ) feet, with profuse, bright orange-red, semi-double flowers, up to 2 inches across, borne during late spring into early summer.

'Dolly North'
Orangish-yellow, double flowers. It is also among the most hardy and longer lived cultivars.

'Farncombe'
Semi-double, orange-yellow flowers.

'Fire Opal'
Reaches up to 2.5 feet with orange-red, semi-double flowers up to 3.2 inches across.

'Lady Stratheden'
Reaches up to 2.5 x 2 feet, with double, bright yellow flowers.

'Mrs. J. Bradshaw'
Reaches up to 2.5 x 2 feet, with semi-double, scarlet-red flowers.

'Tangerine'
Reaches up to 5 inches in height, with bright orange flowers.

Geum montanum
A creeping, rhizomatous perennial, reaching up to 16 x 20 ( rarely over 12 ) inches, that is native from central to southern Europe. It does not form above ground runners.
The pinnate rosette leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are bright green.
The bright golden-yellow flowers, up to 1 + inches across, are borne in small heads from mid spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

Geum reptans
A perennial, reaching up to 9 inches x 2 feet, that is native to Europe. It spreads by aerial stolons that may reach as much as 32 inches in length.
The bright yellow flowers, up to 1.6 inches across, are borne during late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist, acidic, sandy, well drained soil.

Geum rivale ( Purple Avens )
A clumping, rhizomatous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 2.5 ( rarely over 2 ) feet, that is native to North America and Europe.
The pinnate leaves, up to 12 inches in length, are composed of 7 to 13 toothed leaflets.
The nodding, pink ( with purple sepals ), bell-shaped flowers are borne late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade, thriving on wet soils. It does not enjoy hot summers.

'Leonardii'
Pale orange-red flowers.

Geum rossii
A rapid stoloniferous spreading perennial, reaching up to 1 x 1 feet, that is native to Alaska.
The dissected leaves are green.
The yellow, bowl-shaped flowers, up to 1.6 inches across, are borne during late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 5 in full sun to partial shade on moist, cool soil. It does not enjoy hot summers.

Geum triflorum ( Prairie Smoke )
A slow rhizome spreading perennial, reaching up to 16 x 18 inches, that is native to prairies and dry woodlands of central North America ( from Alberta to Ontario; south to Montana to Nebraska to Illinois ).
The ferny leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are downy gray-green.
The rosy-red, nodding flowers are borne during spring.
They are followed by smoky silvery-pink seed plumes.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade. Drought tolerant. Deer resistant.

Geum urbanum

* photo of unknown internet source

Fleabane

2012-02-02T18:53:00.005-05:00

Erigeron

Erigeron aurantiacus
A short-lived perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 1 foot.
The lance-shaped, velvety leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are mid-green.
The orange-yellow flowers, up to 2.3 inch across, are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun on sandy, well drained soil.

Erigeron aureus
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 8 inches, that is native to the western U.S.
The toothed, narrow-obovate leaves are deep green above, bright green beneath.
The golden-yellow flowers, up to 1 inch across, are borne late spring into summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on sandy, well drained soil.

Erigeron compositus ( Alpine Fleabane )
A tufted perennial, reaching a maximum size of just 10 x 10 ( rarely over 4 x 8 ) inches in size, that is native to the Greenland and the Rocky Mountains in the western U.S..
It is great for rock garden.
The deeply-cut foliage is woolly, silvery-green.
The white to lavender flowers, up to 0.8 inches across, are borne late spring into summer.
Hardy zones 1 to 6 in full sun on sandy, well drained soil. Very drought tolerant.
Propagation is from seed and it often self seeds.

Erigeron glaucous ( Beach Aster )
A handsome, succulent, sprawling, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 1 x 3 feet, that is native to the western U.S.
The broadly oval leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are deep green.
The basal foliage is evergreen in mild climates.
The large, violet-blue ( with golden-yellow center ) daisies are borne late spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Very tough and easy to grow, they are tolerant of salt air, drought and are rarely bothered by deer. It grows best along the seashore and does not enjoy extreme heat without partial shade and will not grow in the hot humid southeast.

'Albus'
White flowers, otherwise identical.

'Rose Purple'
Pinkish-purple daisies.

'Sea Breeze'
Compact and dense, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 x 3 feet. The foliage is gray-green. The large daisies are bright pink with yellow centers.

'Wayne Roderick'
Reaches up to 10 inches in height, with lavender flowers, borne mid spring through autumn frosts.

Erigeron x hybrida
Hybrids usually including Erigeron speciosus, that usually reach a maximum size of 32 inches x 2 feet, and have abundant showy flowers, up to 2.4 inches across, borne all summer long. The lance-shaped leaves are mid-green.
They are great for the landscape border.
Most are hardy zones 2 to 7 in full sun on well drained soil.

'Adria'
Blue-violet flowers, otherwise identical.

'Double Beauty'
Double blue-violet flowers, otherwise identical.

'Foerster's Liebling'
Deep pink, semi-double flowers, otherwise identical.

'Gaiety'
Bright pink, single flowers, otherwise identical.

'Prosperity'
A perennial, reaching up to 32 inches x 2 feet, with large, single to semi-double, light-blue daisies, up to 1.5 inches across, borne early summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

'Rotes Meer'
Red semi-double flowers, otherwise identical.

Erigeron karvinskianus ( Santa Barbara Daisy )
A fast growing to invasive, spreading, groundcover perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2.5 x 6 ( rarely over 2 x 5 ) feet, that is native to mountains of southern Mexico and Central America to Venezuela. Can be used in hanging baskets.
The toothed leaves are small. The foliage is evergreen to 15 F.
The white to bright pink ( yellow centered ) daisies are borne spring through fall
( or all year in mild climates )
Hardy zones 8 to 11 ( reports of 6 & 7 ) in full sun on sandy, well drained soil. Cut back hard occasionally to maintain vigor. Propagation is from seed and it often self seeds.

'Bleutenmeer'
Flowers open white, later deepening to purple.

'Profusion'
White flowers.

Erigeron scopulorum
A low groundcover perennial.
The foliage is silvery.
The pink daisies are borne during late spring to early summer.

Erigeron speciosus
A perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 2 feet, that is native to northwest U.S.
The profuse, blue ( with yellow center ) daisies are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 9 in full sun. Cut back flower stems after first flush of blooming to encourage repeat bloom.

'Blue Beauty'

'Darkest of All'
Violet blue flowers.

'Rose Jewel'
Also called 'Pink Jewel'. Reaches up to 32 inches x 2 feet, with bright pink daisies borne late spring to early summer. Hardy zones 3 to 9

Erigeron tweedyi
A low, rosette forming perennial. The leaves are narrowly oval.
The pale lavender daisies, up to 0.7 inches across, are borne during late spring.

Red Valerian

2012-02-02T18:52:00.007-05:00

Centranthus ruber
Also called Jupiters Beard. A bushy, woody-based perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6.6 x 4 ( rarely over 3 x 2.5 ) feet, that is native to Europe and western Asia.
It can be invasive on some sites.
The fleshy leaves, up to 6 ( averaging 3.2 ) inches in length, are fleshy and green.
The red or deep pink flowers, up to 0.8 inches across, are borne on showy large, rounded inflorescences, up to 4 inches across, from late spring through summer.
They attract butterflies.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on just about any well drained soil It is very easy to grow. Drought tolerant as well as tolerant of extreme heat up to 116 F in full sun as well as highly alkaline soil. Rabbit but not deer resistant.
Cut to ground during late August. Propagation is from seed or division though the roots may be tough to cut apart.

'Albus'
Same except with the flowers being pure white.

'Coccineus'
Also called 'Atrococcineus'. Same except with the flowers being deep red.

Kadsura

2012-02-02T18:52:00.006-05:00

Kadsura

Kadsura japonica
An evergreen vine that is native to eastern Asia from South Korea to Taiwan.
The yellow flowers are up to 0.8 inches in width.
They are followed by pendulous, scarlet-red fruits, up to 1.2 inches across, that are borne from the leaf axils on a 1.5 inch stalk.
Hardy zones 7 to 9 ( 6 with protection ).

'Fukurin'
Very attractive, Hoya-like leaves that are variegated with a creamy-white edge.
Reported to be hardy even in zone 5.

Masterwort

2012-02-02T18:51:00.006-05:00

Astrantia

Astrantia carniolica
A dense, clumping perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 3 feet, with pinkish-white ( with white bracts ) flower heads, up to 1 inch across, borne during late summer.
The foliage is finely-divided.
Hardy zones 4 to 6 in full sun to partial shade on moist well drained soil.
It prefers cool summers and hot summer nights are fatal in the southeast U.S. Pest and disease resistant. Propagation is from seed or division during autumn or early spring.

'Rubra'
Deep red flowers, otherwise identical.

Astrantia major ( Major Masterwort )
A dense, clumping perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 4 feet, that is native to the European Alps. It looks expecially attractive next to a small pond.
The large leaves are dissected.
The white, pink or rosy-pink ( with purplish-pink bracts ) flower inflorescences, are borne mid to late summer.
It makes a great cut flower.
Hardy zones 4 to 6 ( to 8 on Pacific Coast and British Isles ) in full sun to partial shade on moist well drained soil.
It prefers cool summers and hot summer nights are fatal in the southeast U.S. Pest and disease resistant. Propagation is from seed or division during autumn or early spring.

'Variegata'
Foliage is variegated, otherwise identical.

Astrantia maxima ( Great Masterwort )
A fast growing, rhizomatous, densely-clumping perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.5 x 4 feet, that is native to Europe and western Asia.
The large leaves are dissected.
The papery, greenish-white ( with shiny rosy-pink, wide bracts ), starry flowers are borne on inflorescences, up to 1.6 inches across, during mid to late summer.
It makes a great cut flower.
Hardy zones 4 to 6 ( to 8 on Pacific Coast and British Isles ) in full sun to partial shade on moist, fertile, well drained soil.
It prefers cool summers and hot summer nights are fatal in the southeast U.S.
Pest and disease resistant. Propagation is from seed or division during autumn or early spring.

* photos of unknown internet source

'Alba'
Vigorous, dense and sturdy, reaching up to 2.5 feet.
The white flowers are borne from early summer to early autumn.

'Claret'
Reaches up to 2.5 x 2.5 feet.

'Hadspen Blood'
Reaches up to 32 inches in height, with attractive purplish-green foliage and showy red flowers.

'Lars'
Sturdy and compact, reaching up to 2.5 feet, with deep green foliage and deep red flowers.

'Primadonna'
Reaches up to 2.5 feet in height, with purple flowers.
Prefers partial shade.

'Ruby Cloud'
Forms a dense, tight clump, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, with very dissected, small leaves that are mid-green.
The profuse flowers are deep red to reddish-purple.

'Ruby Wedding'
Reaches up to 3 x 2.5 feet, with deep red flowers borne during early summer, then repeating during late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 preferring partial shade.

Cowania

2012-02-02T18:50:00.002-05:00

Cowania

Cowania mexicana ( Cliff Rose )
The leaves can be used to make tea.
Germination is from seed which should be soaked in hydrogen peroxide for 6 hours then stratified for 2 months before sowing during spring.

'Snowflake'
A rare vigorous growing form with white flowers.

Bumelia

2012-02-02T18:49:00.008-05:00

Bumelia
A small genus of trees that are part of the larger Sapotaceae family.
The sweet tasting fruits are typically black. They are good eaten raw or cooked. They also make very good jelly.

Bumelia celastrina ( Saffron Plum )
A small to medium-sized tree, native to Florida, as well as southern Texas into Mexico. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 2 feet; largest on record - 80 x 30 feet with a trunk diameter of 1.5 feet.
The obovate leaves, up to 2 x 1 inches, are glossy deep green.
The evergreen foliage persists for 2 years or more.
The sweet-tasting, black fruits are up to 1 inch in length.
Hardy zones 8 to 10, it is very heat and drought tolerant.

Bumelia lanuginosa ( Gum Bumelia )
A narrow-crowned, small to medium-sized tree, that is native to the central U.S.
Some records include: fastest growth rate - 3 feet; largest on record - 85 x 66 feet with a trunk diameter of 3 feet.
The Gum Bumelia is structurally very strong and storm resistant.
The smooth-edged, blunt-tipped, oval to oblong leaves, up to 4 x 1.5 inches, are deep green above, rusty or silvery hairy beneath.
The leaves are either alternately-arranged along the stems or whorled at the stem tips.
The small white flowers are borne along the stems on small axilliary clusters during early summer.
They are followed by blue fruits, up to an inch in length.
The scaly, fissured back is dark bluish-gray. The stems are armed with spines.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( tolerates as low as -27 F and is known to thrive in Chicago ) in full sun to partial shade on acidic soil only. It is very tolerant of heat and drought.

Bumelia lycioides ( Buckthorn Bumelia )
A small, semi-evergreen tree that is a rare thought widespread native to the southeastern U.S where it is found in swamps.
Some records include: largest on record - 66 x 30 feet with a trunk diameter of 1.3 feet.
The elliptical leaves, up to 6 x 3 inches, are bright green.
In very mild climates, it may be evergreen.
The tiny flowers are followed by blue fruits, up to 0.8 inches in length.
The stems are armed with curved spines.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on average to moist soils.
It is very heat tolerant and also tolerant of flooding.

Bumelia tenax ( Tough Bumelia )
A small, evergreen tree that is native to Florida, Georgia and South Carolina.
Some records include: fastest growth rate - 2 feet; largest on record - 41 x 40 feet with a trunk diameter of 1 feet. It is structurally very strong and storm resistant.
It resembled the Gum Bumelia but is smaller in all its parts.
The smooth-edged, blunt-tipped, oval to oblong leaves, up to 3 x 1 inches, are deep green above, rusty hairy beneath.
The leaves are either alternately-arranged along the stems or whorled at the stem tips.
The small white flowers are borne along the stems on small axilliary clusters during early summer.
They are followed by blue fruits, up to an inch in length.
The scaly, fissured back is dark bluish-gray. The stems are armed with spines up to an inch in length.
Hardy zones 8 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on acidic soil only. It is very tolerant of heat, drought and salt.

Cardamine

2012-02-02T18:49:00.006-05:00

Cardamine

Cardamine enneaphyllos
A perennial, reaching up to 16 inches x 2 feet, that is native to the Balkans in southeastern Europe. It slowly forms sizable colonies.
The leaves are composed of 3 toothed leaflets.
The extremely beautiful foliage is deep red at first, turning to glossy deep green.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 in shade on moist soil. Propagation is from division or seed.

Cardamine heptaphylla
A mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 2 x 3 feet, that is native to southern Europe.
The large pinnate leaves are composed of up to 7 leaflets. The deep green foliage is early deciduous.
The large, lilac-white flowers are borne during early spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 on moist, well drained soil. Propagation is from division or seed.

Cardamine latifolia
A mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 20 inches x 2 feet, that is native to the Pyrenees Mountains in Europe.
The pinnate foliage is bright green at first, later turning to mid-green. The leaves resemble that of Watercress.
The lilac-pink flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in partial shade on moist, well drained soil. Propagation is from division or seed.

Cardamine macrophylla
A deciduous perennial, reaching up to 4 x 2 feet, that is native to the Himalayas from Nepal to western China at elevations up to 12000 feet or more.
The pinnate leaves, up to 10 inches in length, are glossy bright green.
The fragrant flowers are pink.
Hardy zones 4 to 7 ( 8 & 9 in maritime climates ) on moist soil, it prefers cool summers. Propagation is from division or seed.

Cardamine pratense ( Cuckoo Flower )
A fast growing to invasive, herbaceous perennial, reaching up to 2 x 2 feet, that is native to most of Europe eastward into western Siberia though also naturalized in parts of North America.
The pinnate leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are composed of up to 15 leaflets, up to 0.4 inches in length. In mild climates the foliage clump may be evergreen.
The pale pink ( less often white ) flowers, up to 0.8 inches across, are borne on a spike up to 12 inches in length. The foliage is mid-green.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil. Propagation is from division or seed.

* photos of unknown internet source

'Edith'
Abundant, pure white, double flowers. It is otherwise identical to the species.

'Flore Pleno'
Double lilac flowers, otherwise identical to the species.

'William'
Purple tinted foliage and deep lavender flowers, otherwise identical to the species.

Cardamine raphanifolia
An evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum height of 28 inches, that is native from southern Europe to Greece and Turkey.
The rounded leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are glossy green.
The rich pink flowers are borne during mid spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8, it will form a large colony on moist soil or standing water. Propagation is from division or seed.

Cardamine trifolia
An very attractive, slow spreading, rhizomatous, mat-forming, evergreen perennial, forming a clump up to 12 x 20 inches. It is native to moist woodlands in central and southern Europe.
The leaves, up to 1.8 inches in length, are deep green above, purple beneath.
The white flowers are borne during early spring.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in shade. Drought tolerant. Propagation is from division or seed.

Rock Cress

2012-02-02T18:48:00.004-05:00

Arabis

Arabis alpina
A dwarf perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 2 feet.
The pure white flowers are borne mid to late spring.

Arabis blepharophylla ( Coast Rock Cress )
A very attractive, spreading, tufted perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 5 feet, that is native to coastal California.
The fuzzy, stiff leaves, up to 3 inches in length, are green.
The sweetly fragrant, white or pink, 4-petalled flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on well drained soil.

'Spring Charm'
Intense rose-pink flowers, otherwise identical to the species.

Arabis caucasica ( Caucasian Rock Cress )
A fast growing, low, spreading, semi-evergreen, bushy perennial, reaching a maximum size of 16 inches x 4 feet. It looks great on banks or trailing over walls.
The toothed, elliptical leaves, up to 4 x 1.7 inches, are mid-green.
The profuse, white flowers are borne early spring into early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Shear lightly after blooming to encourage fresh growth.

'Coccinea'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 8 x 20 inches, with deep red flowers.

'Compinkie'
Vigorous but compact and low, reaching a maximum size of 10 inches x 2 feet.
The flowers are pink.

'Plena'
Also called 'Flore Pleno'. Double, pure-white flowers over a much longer season, otherwise identical.

'Rosabella'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 8 x 20 inches, with pink flowers.

'Snowcap'
A low, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 4 feet.
The woolly leaves are gray.
The white flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8.

'Variegata'
Green foliage is edged in white.
The flowers are pink.

Arabis ferdinandi-cobergii
A creeping but not invasive, evergreen mat-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 ( rarely over 6 ) inches x 1.5 feet, that is native to Greece.
The white flowers are borne on umbels during early to mid spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on very well drained soil. Drought tolerant.

'Old Gold'
Reaching a maximum size of 6 inches x 1.5 feet, with golden variegation.
The flowers are white.

'Variegata'
Reaches up to 1 x 2 feet, with foliage that is glossy deep green with white variegation. The flowers are white.

Arabis procurrens 'Glacier'
A flat, low, mat-forming,evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 2 feet, that is native to mountains of southeastern Europe.
The leaves, up to 1.5 inches in length, are deep green.
The white flowers are borne mid to late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on very well drained soil. Drought tolerant.

Arabis x sturii
A hybrid, reaching up to 4 inches in height, with glossy green foliage and white flowers.

Angelica

2012-02-02T18:47:00.004-05:00

Angelica

* photo of unknown internet source

Angelica archangelica ( Norwegian Angelica )
A spectacular large perennial, reaching a maximum size of 8 x 6 feet, that is native to Greenland, Iceland and northern Europe.
The huge bipinnate leaves, up to 3 feet in length, are composed of many toothed leaflets, up to 3 inches in length. The attractive foliage is green.
The white flowers are borne on spectacular clusters during mid-summer.
Flowering does not occur until the second year.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die.

Angelica atropurpurea
A spectacular large perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 6.6 feet, that is native to riverbanks and moist to swampy woodlands.
It is usually grown as a focal point foliage plant.
The huge, bipinnate leaves, up to 2 feet across, are deep green at first, later turning to green with red veining.
The white flowers are borne on clusters, up to 10 inches across, during summer.
The stalks can be eaten like celery and actually taste similar.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die. It is almost never bothered by insect pests or disease.

Angelica gigas ( Korean Archangel )
A striking perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 4 feet, that is native to China, Korea and Japan.
The stunning, bold, deep green, bipinnate leaves, up to 16 x 12 inches in size, are borne on dark purple stems. The leaflets are ovate to triangular.
The deep purplish-red flowers are borne on umbels, up to 3 inches across, during late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die. It is usually propagated from seed sown during spring.

* video found on Youtube

Angelica pachycarpa
A very impressive perennial, reaching up to 4 x 3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to Portugal and northwest Spain. It has naturalized in the New Zealand Alps.
The attractive, ternate leaves are thick, very leathery and very glossy deep green.
The very fragrant, white flowers are borne on umbels up to 8 inches across.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun. Remove the flower stalks immediately after blooming since if the plant is allowed to set seed it will usually then act as a biennial and die.

Angelica sinensis ( Dong Quai )
A perennial, native to China.
Full text description coming at a later date.

Anthemis

2012-02-02T18:44:00.005-05:00

Anthemis

Anthemis carpatica 'Snow Carpet'
A cushion-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 8 inches x 3 feet.
The hairy foliage is gray-green.
The white flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Plants should be sheared or cut back after flowering. Propagation is from seed or cuttings.

Anthemis cupaniana
A fast growing to invasive, evergreen, mat-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 3 feet, that is native to Italy. It is sometimes used for edging.
The aromatic, finely-divided leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are silvery-gray.
The white ( with yellow eye ) flowers are borne during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Plants should be sheared or cut back after flowering. Propagation is from seed or cuttings.

Anthemis nobilis ( Common Chamomile )
A low, bushy perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 2 feet, that is native to Europe.
The aromatic, finely-divided leaves, up to 2 inches in length, are green.
The small, white ( with yellow center ) daisies, are borne during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Plants should be sheared or cut back after flowering. Propagation is from seed or cuttings.

Anthemis santi-johannis ( Golden Marquerite )
A fast growing, bushy, semi-evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3 x 3 feet, that is native to the Balkans in eastern Europe.
The aromatic, finely-divided leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are gray-green.
The bright orange flowers, up to 2.4 inches across, are borne during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Plants should be sheared or cut back after flowering. Propagation is from seed or cuttings.

Anthemis tinctoria ( Golden Marguerite )
A fast growing, bushy, mounding, short-lived perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 3.5 feet, that is native to Europe and western Asia.
The aromatic, finely-divided leaves, up to 3.2 inches in length, are green above, woolly beneath.
The bright yellow flowers, up to 2.4 inches across, are borne during early to mid summer. The flowers attract butterflies and look great with taller blue flowers as a backdrop.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Drought resistant and actually prefers not too much irrigation. Rabbit and deer resistant. Shear during mid spring to encourage dense habit. Plants should be sheared or cut back after flowering.
Propagation is from seed or cuttings.

* video found on Youtube

'E.C. Buxton'
Reaches up to 2.5 ( usually under 2 ) feet with white ( with golden-yellow ) flowers borne all summer long.

* video found on Youtube

'Kelwayi'
Fast growing, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 5 feet. The abundant, gold daisies, up to 3 inches across, are borne early to mid summer.

'Susanna Mitchell'
Reaches up to 2.5 x 2 feet.
Creamy-white flowers all summer long.

'Wargrave'
Fast growing, reaching a maximum size of 3 x 5 feet, with creamy-white daisies, up to 2 inches across, borne all summer long.

Ornamental Rhubarb

2012-02-02T18:43:00.002-05:00

Rheum

Rheum 'Ace of Heart'
A moderate growing perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 4 feet.
The leaves are completely red during spring, later turning to deep green above, deep red beneath. They are borne on deep red stems.
Hardy zones 3 to 6 ( mulch deeply during winter north of 4 ).

Rheum acuminatum ( Sikkim Rhubarb )
A clumping perennial, reaching a maximum height of 3 feet.
The leaves, up to 12 x 10 inches, are glossy deep green above, purple beneath.
The leaves are borne on scarlet-red stalks.
The flowers are reddish-pink.
Hardy zones 6 to 8

Rheum alexandrae
A clumping perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 2 ( rarely over 3.3 ) feet, that is native to the Himalayas.
The leaves, up to 12 x 8 inches, are glossy green above.
The flowers are borne on spikes up to 18 inches in length, during late spring.
The small flowers are hidden behind large showy bracts that are pale yellow aging to red.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun on very fertile, moist soil.

Rheum australe
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 8 feet.
The large, heart-shaped leaves, up to 40 inches across, are reddish-green.
The yellow flowers are borne late spring into summer.
The stems are red.
Hardy zones 4 to 6 in full sun to partial shade.

Rheum compactum
A handsome perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.5 x 3 feet, that is native to eastern Siberia.
The wavy-margined, heart-shaped leaves, up to 18 inches across, are glossy green.
The flowers are white.
Hardy zones 5 to 7 in full sun to partial shade.

Rheum kialense
A rare but beautiful perennial, reaching a maximum height of 2 feet, that is native to Sichuan province in China. It makes an excellent, fast growing, dense groundcover.
The pleated triangular leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are reddish-green.
The flowers are reddish-green.
Hardy zones 5 to 9

Rheum officinale
A stately perennial, that is native to Tibet and western China.
The foliage is poisonous but the young leafstalks are edible and are often used to add flavoring to strawberry pie.
The very large, lobed leaves, up to 30 inches across, are luxuriant mid-green
The white flowers are borne on very tall stalks up to 10 feet in height.

Rheum palmatum
A clumping perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 7 feet, that is native to China.
The huge, deeply-cut leaves, up to 36 x 40 inches, are purplish-red at first, turning to glossy deep green.
The fluffy, small red flowers are borne on erect panicles, up to 3.3 feet in length, during early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 6 in full sun to partial shade on very fertile, moist soil.

'Atrosanguineum'
Reaches a maximum size of 10 x 8 feet, with huge leaves up to 3 x 3 feet.
The foliage is intensely red at first, before turning to glossy deep green.
The deep red flowers are borne late spring to early summer.

'Bowles Crimson'
Foliage is deep red beneath, otherwise identical to species.

'Hadspen Crimson'
A gigantic stately perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 x 10 feet.
The huge leaves are up to 40 inches in length.
The giant red flower stalks reach up to 15 feet in height.

var. tanguticum
A bold perennial, reaching a maximum size of 7 x 8 feet.
It looks great combined with variegated Solomon's Seal.
The huge foliage is deep purple.
The rosy-red flowers are borne on pyramidal panicles during late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 6

R. rhabarbarum ( Garden Rhubarb )
A perennial, that is commonly used as a vegetable. The foliage is poisonous but the young leafstalks are edible and are often used to add flavoring to strawberry pie.
In temperate climates, it is a herbaceous perennial that dies back to the ground after the first autumn frost, to then reappear during spring. In very mild climates, it may grow all year.

Alyssum

2012-02-02T18:42:00.007-05:00

Alyssum

Alyssum montanum ( Mountain Gold )
A fast growing, low, compact, mat-forming groundcover perennial, reaching up to 4 ( usually under 2 ) inches x 2 feet, that is native to eastern Europe.
It looks great in rock gardens or planted in stone walls.
The aromatic foliage is hairy gray-green.
The profuse, fragrant, bright yellow flowers are borne during mid to late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 ( 3 with snow protection ) in full sun to partial shade on sandy, well drained soil. Loves heat and is drought tolerant.

'Mountain Gold'
Profuse bright-yellow flowers, otherwise similar.

Alyssum saxatile ( Basket of Gold )
Also called Aurinia saxatilis. A vigorous, carpet-forming, semi-evergreen perennial, reaching up to 20 inches x 5 + feet ( usually closer to half that ) in size.. It is generally used to trail over walls or over the sides of large containers.
The leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are gray-green.
The very profuse bright golden-yellow flowers are borne during mid to late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. Excessive wetness can kill. Shear after blooming of it will become leggy and thin.

* video found on Youtube

Citrinum'
Also called 'Sulphurea'. A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 15 inches x 2 feet, with grayish-green foliage and paler pink flowers

'Compactum'
More compact in habit, reaching a maximum height of 1 foot, with bright yellow flowers.

'Dudley Neville Variegated'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 1 x 1.5 feet, with fussy leaves, up to 5 inches in length, that are gray-green with creamy-white variegation. Flowers are pale yellow.

'Sunny Border Apricot'
Flowers are orangish-yellow.

Alstroemeria

2012-02-02T18:41:00.005-05:00

Alstroemeria
A genus of long-lived perennials that are native to South America.
While most species bloom during summer, the ones from Mediterranean parts of Chile grow and flower during the winter rainy season.

Alstroemeria aurantiaca ( Peruvian Lily )
Reaches up to 3 x 3 feet.
The trumpet-shaped flowers are borne in clusters.
Hardy zones 8 to 9 ( 6 and 7 if heavily mulched during winter ) in full sun ( some afternoon shade where very hot ) on very well drained soil. This plant resents transplanting and the thick tubers should be handled carefully. The tubers should be planted 10 inches deep.

Alstroemeria 'Inca Exotica'
Flowers are yellow and red.
The hardiest of the Alstroemerias, solidly hardy in zone 5 Michigan,

Alstroemeria 'Inca Ice'
Similar to 'Inca Exotica' except with very profuse flowers that are pale pink and cream.

Alstroemeria 'Ligtu Hybrids'
Reaches up to 4 feet in height, with red, orange or yellow flowers.

Alstroemeria 'Sweet Laura'
A vigorous but slowly rhizomatous spreading perennial, reaching a maximum height of 3 feet.
The sweetly-fragrant, abundant, yellow ( tinted deep red ) flowers are borne early summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade, this hybrid is tolerant of heat and humidity in the southeastern U.S. Deer resistant.

Akebia

2012-02-02T18:41:00.004-05:00

Akebia

Akebia pentaphylla
A vine, reaching a maximum size of 40 x 40 feet.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

Akebia quinata ( Chocolate Vine )
A very fast growing vine, reaching up to 40 x 40 feet. Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 20 feet. They can be used to cover a wire fence or make an excellent deciduous foliage screen.
The palmate leaves are composed of 5 rounded leaflets. It is evergreen in zone 7 and south, deciduous in colder climates.
2 varieties will be needed to produce fruit since they are not self fertile and will need cross pollination. The juicy, purple fruits, up to 7 x 3 inches, are eaten fresh and contain a tasty pulp. They make an excellent drink when mixed with lemon juice and also make a good jelly.
The dried leaves can also be used for tea.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on most soils.
Propagation is easy from seed, root cuttings and layering. It will rapidly regrow if cut back to the ground.

Akebia trifoliata
A vine, reaching a maximum size of 40 x 40 feet.
The flowers are up to 0.7 inches across.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

Stonecress

2012-02-02T18:40:00.004-05:00

Aethionema

Aethionema cordifolium ( Lebanese Stonecress )
A moderate growing, mounding, shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 inches x 1.5 feet, that is native to Lebanon and Turkey to Asia Minor.
The needle-like leaves, up to 0.7 inches in length, are blue-green.
The small, rosy-pink flowers are borne on upright terminal spikes over a long season during spring.
Hardy zones 5 to 7 in full sun on well drained soil. Propagation is from seed, division or cuttings. Deadhead after blooming.

Aethionema grandiflorum ( Persian Stonecress )
A moderate growing, mounding, shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 20 x 32 inches, that is native to southwestern Asia. It makes a great plant for the rock garden.
The finely-textured, needle-like leaves, up to 1.5 inches in length, are grayish-blue.
The soft pale pink flowers are borne during late spring to early autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun on sandy, well drained soil. Propagation is from seed, division or cuttings. Deadhead after blooming.

Aethionema iberideum
A moderate growing, mounding, shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 8 inches x 1 foot, that is native to Turkey.
The foliage is gray-green.
The flowers are white.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on well drained soil. Propagation is from seed, division or cuttings. Deadhead after blooming.

Aethionema kotschyi
A semi-evergreen ( evergreen in mild climates ), compact, shrubby, groundcover perennial, reaching a maximum height of 8 inches.
The rich pink flowers are borne during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil.

Aethionema membranaceum
A low, cushion-forming perennial, reaching a maximum height of 6 inches.
The foliage is blue-green.
The rich pink flowers are borne during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil.

Aethionema schistosum ( Fragrant Persian Stonecress )
A moderate growing, mounding, shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 foot x 15 inches, that is native to Turkey.
The linear leaves are bluish-gray.
The very fragrant, soft to deep pink flowers are borne on terminal racemes during early spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun on well drained soil. Drought tolerant. Propagation is from seed, division or cuttings. Deadhead after blooming.

Aethionema 'Warley Rose'
A moderate growing, mounding, shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 foot x 20 inches, that is native to southwestern Asia.
The foliage is gray-green.
The pink flowers are borne during late spring to early autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on well drained soil. Propagation is from seed, division or cuttings. Shear after blooming.

Aethionema 'Warley Ruber'
Rosy-red flowers, otherwise identical to A. 'Warley Rose'.

Monkshood

2012-02-02T18:36:00.009-05:00

Aconitum

A genus of perennials that are closely related to the Delphiniums.
All parts of the plant are very toxic and must not be eaten. It is also best not to get the poisonous juices in open wounds.
Monkshood prefers full sun to partial shade on moist, fertile, humus-rich, well drained soil. They prefer cool summers and especially hate hot summer nights.
Mulching during spring to keep the roots cool is recommended.
Prune off faded foliage during summer to encourage new growth during cooler weather as autumn approaches. Insect and disease problems may occur, these including aphids, rust, mildew, stem rot and wilt.
They do not like root disturbance however division can be done during late autumn or early spring while dormant then replanted at the same depth. They will rot if planted too deep.

Aconitum carmichaelii ( Autumn Monkshood )
Also called A. fischeri. An upright perennial, reaching a maximum size of 7 x 4 feet, that is native to China.
The leathery, toothed, 3 to 5 lobed leaves, up to 6 inches across, are glossy deep green above, pale beneath.
The attractive foliage generally reaches no higher than 2 feet on the stem.
The blue, purplish-pink or white flowers are borne on short, dense spikes during early autumn.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in full sun to partial shade.

'Arendsii'
Reaches a maximum size of 6 x 4 feet, with attractive lobed foliage that is glossy green and remains attractive all season long.
The showy, deep blue, hooded flowers are borne on sturdy spikes during early to mid autumn, often persisting until autumn frosts.
The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on cool, moist, fertile, well drained soil.

* photo taken during October 2010 in Howard County, MD

'Barkers Variety'
Reaching a maximum size of 7 ( often only 3 ) x 4 feet with intense violet-blue flowers borne late summer into early autumn. It often breeds true from seed.

var. 'wilsonii'
Taller, reaching up to 8 feet.

Aconitum fischeri
A perennial, reaching up to 6 x 3 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to Siberia and Korea.
The leaves resemble that of the Silver Maple in shape.
The showy, blue flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 4 to 6 in partial shade.

Aconitum henryi 'Spark's Variety'
A perennial, reaching up to 6 x 2 feet, the parent species is native to China.
The 7-lobed leaves are glossy deep green.
The vivid deep violet-blue flowers are borne during mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 6 in partial shade.

Aconitum x hybrida ( Hybrid Monkshoods )
Also called Aconitum x cammarum. These Monkshoods mostly bloom on sturdy, upright spikes during summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 6 in partial shade.

'Bi-color'
Reaches up to 5 feet in height, with showy blue and white flowers borne during summer.

'Bressingham Spire'
Compact and very upright in habit, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet, with deep purplish-blue flowers borne on long sturdy spikes during mid to late summer, often persisting into autumn. It does not need staking.

'Eleanor'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 4 x 3 feet, with white ( variegated with narrow blue edge ) flowers, borne all summer long.

'Ivorine'
Creamy-white flowers.

'Newry Blue'
Reaches up to 5 feet in height, with bright violet-blue flowers borne during early summer.

'Spark's Variety'
Purplish-blue flowers.

'Stainless Steel'
Reaches a maximum size of 3.5 x 2 feet, with gray-green foliage and intense blue ( with white center ) flowers borne all summer long.

Aconitum napellus ( Common Blue Monkshood )
An upright perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 3 ( rarely over 4.5 ) feet, that is native to Europe and western Asia.
The toothed, 5 or 7 lobed leaves, up to 6 inches across, are lightly hairy and glossy deep green.
The bright purplish-blue flowers are borne in dense racemes during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 6 in partial shade.

'Album'
Pure white flowers, otherwise identical.

'Rubellum'
Reaches up to 3.5 feet in height, with pale pink flowers borne early to mid summer.
It is sometimes mixed in plantings with the regular blue flowering species.

Aconitum pyrenaicum ( Yellow Monkshood )
Also called Aconitum lamarckii.
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 5 feet, that is native to Europe.
The pale-yellow flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 2 to 6 in partial shade. It is very easy to grow.

Aconitum septentrionale 'Ivorine'
Also called Aconitum vulparia 'Ivorine'. A compact perennial, reaching a maximum size of 7 x 3 feet, with creamy-white, hooded flowers borne on short spikes during late summer. The parent species is native to Europe.
The leaves are up to 9 inches across.
Hardy zones 2 to 6 in partial shade.

Aconitum tauricum
A perennial, that is native to mountains in Italy.
The attractive foliage is dissected.
The purple flowers are borne on dense clusters.

Baby's Breath

2012-02-02T18:34:00.004-05:00

Gysophila

Gysophila cerastioides
A low, clumping perennial, reaching up to 16 inches x 1.5+ feet.
It makes a great plant for the rock garden.
The leaves are up to 2 inches in length. The foliage is evergreen in mild climates.
The pure white flowers are purple veined.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun.

Gysophila paniculata ( Baby's Breath )
A deep taprooted, mounding perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 4 feet, that is native from southern and eastern Europe; east to central Asia.
The lance-shaped leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are blue-green.
The very small, single, white flowers, up to 0.2 inches across, are borne on very large, airy panicles, up to 10 inches in length. The flowers are borne during early to mid summer, often repeating during autumn if cut back immediately after the first bloom. They are often cut, dried and used for floral arrangments.
Hardy zones 2 to 7 in full sun on alkaline, well drained soil. Thrives on alkaline soil, it does not like cold wet soil. Baby's Breath does not like root disturbance once established. Propagation is from seed, or semi-ripe cuttings for cultivars.

* photo of unknown internet source

'Compacta Plena'
Compact and dwarf in habit, reaching a maximum height of 20 inches.
The double flowers are white.

'Flamingo'
Double, pale pink flowers.

'Perfecta'
Reaches a maximum size of 5 x 4 feet, with double white flowers borne all summer long.

'Pink Fairy'
Forms a mound up to 3 x 3 feet, with double pink flowers borne all summer long.

'Red Sea'
Reaches up to 4 feet in height, with double rose-pink flowers.

'Rosy Veil'
Reaches up to 1 x 3 feet, with blue-green foliage and pale pink flowers.
Hardy zones 4 to 9.

'Viette's Dwarf'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet, with sprays of flowers that are pink fading to white.

Gysophila repens
A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 4 feet. It is fast growing and can form a large mat in just 2 years. It looks great cascading over a rock wall.
The foliage is blue-green.
The flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun.

'Alba'
White flowers.

'Rosea'
Pink flowers, otherwise identical.

New Zealand Flax

2012-02-01T20:56:00.004-05:00

Phormium

A small genus of evergreen perennials that are closely related to the Agaves.
They thrive in full sun on moist, fertile, well drained soil that is deeply mulched during winter. They are tolerant of ocean salt breezes and pollution.
These most spectacular specimen plants look great as a focal point, especially with a gravel mulch. They also look great in planters and the smaller varieties are great for the urban garden.
Propagation is from division.

* photo of unknown internet source

* video found on Youtube

Phormium cookianum
A very large, fleshy-rooted, evergreen, clumping perennial, reaching a maximum size of 7 x 10 feet, that is native to New Zealand.
The sword-shaped leaves, up to 6 feet x 2.4 inches in size, are green.
The tubular flowers are brown on the outside, pale green on the inside.
The flowers are borne during late spring to early summer.
They are followed by nodding seedpods.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 ( tolerating as low as 2 F as a dieback perennial on protected sites ).

'Cream Delight'
Reaches up to 3 x 6 feet with leaves, up to 2.5 inches across, that are green and boldly vertically striped creamy-yellow.

'Dark Delight'
Reaches up to 4 x 6 feet, with leaves, up to 4 feet in length, that are deep reddish-purple.

'Emerald Green'
Dwarf in habit, reaching up to 1 foot, with bright green foliage.

'Tricolor'
Forms a vigorous clump of drooping leaves, up to 5 feet in length, that are green in the center, surrounded by bold yellow vertical strips and a rose-red margin.
The yellow flowers are borne on a spike up to 3 feet high.

Phormium tenax
A very large, fleshy-rooted, evergreen, clumping perennial, reaching a maximum size of 17 x 14 ( usually closer to half that ) feet, that is native to New Zealand.
The stiff, thick, sword-shaped leaves, up to 10 feet x 6 inches in size, are olive-green.
The rusty-red, tubular flowers are borne atop a purple stalk.
They are followed by nodding seedpods up to 4 inches in length.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 ( tolerating as low as 2 F as a dieback perennial on protected sites ). Tolerant of flooding and seashore conditions.

* photos of unknown internet source

'Atropurpureum'
Hardy zones 7 to 11, tolerating 2 F as a perennial.

'Aurora'
The leaves, up to 10 feet in length, are deep green and attractively vertically striped pink above, blue green beneath.

'Black Magic'
Also called 'Platt's Black'. Forms a compact clump, up to 4 feet in height, with rich, very dark bronze-purple foliage.

'Bronze Baby'
Forms a fast growing, compact, upright clump. The leaves, up to 3 feet x 1.5 inches, are deep purplish-red.

'Dazzler'
Forms a foliage clump, up to 3 feet high, of arching leaves, up to 1.5 inches across, that are bronze with scarlet-red vertical stripes.

'Evening Glow'
The leaves, up to 40 x 1.3 inches, are bright reddish-pink with a narrow grayish-brown margin.

'Firebird'
Forms an upright clump, up to 5 feet high. The stiff leaves, up to 2 inches across, are purplish-bronze with bright red vertical marginal strips.

'Flamin'

* video found on Youtube

'Gold Sword'
Forms an erect clump of foliage up to 3.3 feet in height.
The broad leaves are bright yellow with vertical deep green stripes near the margin.

'Goliath'
A huge, vigorous form, with gigantic leaves, up to 13 feet x 5 inches.
The foliage is olive-green above, bright blue beneath.
The flower spikes are up to 12 feet tall.

'Guardian'
Also called 'Red Guardian'. Forms an upright clump, up to 7 feet high.
The leaves, up to 1.5 inches across, are deep bronze-red with a deep red margin.

'Lineatum'
Stiff leaves, up to 6 feet in length, that are olive-green with narrow vertical creamy-yellow stripes. Makes a great container plant.

'Maori Chief'
Also called 'Rainbow Chief'. Forms a vigorous, upright clump. The leaves, up to 5 feet x 3 inches, are bronze-green with pinkish-red vertical stripes close to the margin.

'Maori Maiden'
Also called 'Rainbow Maiden'. The upright leaves, up to 5 ( rarely over 3 ) feet x 2 inches, are intense orange-red to rosy-red with a thin green margin.

* photo of unknown internet source

'Maori Queen'
Forms a large clump of erect leaves, up to 5 feet x 3 inches each. The leaves are olive-green to bronze-green with a rose-red margin that fades to creamy-white.

'Maori Sunrise'
Also called 'Rainbow Sunrise'. The leaves, up to 32 x 1.6 inches, are salmon-pink ( fading to pale yellow ) with vertical narrow bronze-green bands near the margin.

'Pink Stripe'
Forms a clump, up to 5 feet high, with foliage that is bronzy-green to nearly gray with a bold broad bright pink margin.

'Radiance'
Forms a clump of erect sword-shaped leaves, up to 6 feet x 3 inches each, that are pale yellow with a mid-green margin.

'Sundowner'
Forms an upright, large clump of huge leaves, up to 6 feet in length.
The leaves, up to 2.5 inches across, are bronze-green with intense rosy-pink margins that later fade to creamy-white.

'Sunset'
Forms an upright clump, up to 5 feet high. The long leaves, up to 1.5 inches across, are orangish-pink ( later fading to creamy-yellow ) with a bronze-green margin.

'Thumbelina'
Forms a dense dwarf clump of slightly twisted, very narrow leaves, up to 16 inches in length, that are bronze-purple.

'Tom Thumb'
Fast growing, with narrow leaves, up to 18 inches in length, that are green with a very narrow reddish-bronze margin.

'Variegatum'
Forms an upright, large clump, up to 4 feet high. The broad leaves, up to 3 inches across, are deep gray-green with bold creamy-yellow vertical strips.

'Yellow Wave'
Vigorous in habit, with graceful leaves that are upright with drooping tips.
The leaves, up to 4 feet x 2 inches, are yellow with an intense mid-green border.
It is easily propagated.

Olive

2012-01-27T09:58:00.014-05:00

Olea
A small genus of close to 20 species of evergreen trees and shrubs that are part of the Oleacaceae family. They are mostly native to the Mediterranean, Asia and Africa.
They prefer full sun; deep fertile well drained soil and long hot summers.
Most species are very drought tolerant once fully established.
They are deer resistant but the trunks of young trees should be protected from rabbits or other gnawing critters.
Propagation is from cuttings, suckers or seed that is soaked for 2 days before sowing.

Olea africana ( African Olive )
Also called Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata. A close relative to Olea europea, which becomes a medium sized tree.
It is native to southern Africa where it is endangered.
Some records include: largest on record - 60 x 82 feet with a trunk diameter of 13 feet. Some records include: 90 years - trunk diameter of 4.6 feet; It makes an excellent shade tree for an open lawn but keep in mind that its aggressive large root system can damage pools and underground pipes.
The foliage is similar to that of Olea europea but is glossy gray-green above, rusty-brown beneath. The willow-like leaves are up to 3 x 1 inches in size.
The purplish-black fruits are up to an inch in length.
The highly valuable wood is used to make fine furniture.
Hardy zones 9 to 10 ( tolerating as low as 15 F ). Very drought tolerant.
Propagation is from seed. If often self seeds to the extent of being invasive and should not be planted in much of southern Australia where birds will widely distribute the seed.

* photos of unknown internet source

Olea capensis ( Black Ironwood )
A fast growing, large, evergreen tree, reaching a maximum height of 133 feet, that is native to eastern and southern Africa. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 4 feet; 4 years - 15 feet. It makes an excellent landscape tree.
The leaves, up to 4 x 2 inches, are glossy deep green.
The fragrant, white flowers are borne during spring.
The are followed by edible, small, purplish-black fruits, up to 0.6 x 0.3 inches.
The bark is dark gray and fissured.
Hardy zones 9 to 11 preferring full sun though it will tolerate shade.

* photos of unknown internet source

subsp macrocarpa ( Cape Olive )
Also called Olea macrocarpa. A fast growing large tree, reaching a maximum height of 100 feet with a trunk diameter of 5 feet, that is native to southern Africa.
The leaves are up to 4 x 1.5 inches.
The fine timber is highly valued.
Hardy zone 10

Olea cunninghamia ( Black Maire )
A slow growing, medium-sized tree.
The leaves are up to 10 x 0.5 inches in size.
Hardy zones 9.

Olea europaea ( Common Olive )
A medium-sized, evergreen tree, native to the Mediterranean Sea region is among the worlds most important trees. It also makes a very attractive landscape tree with older plants often having a twisted trunk and gnarled branches.
Moderate to fast growing when young; some records include: 4 years - 12 feet; 5 years - 17 feet; 80 years - trunk diameter of 3.5 feet; 100 years - 50 x 53 feet; 130 years - trunk diameter of 5.3 feet; largest on record - 100 x 60 feet with a trunk diameter of 7.6 feet. It has been grown in the mildest parts of England but grows slowly there due to cooler summers. One is known to have reached 20 feet in London.
Extremely long-lived, the Olive tree has been known to survive as long as 2200 years.
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 4 x 1 inches in size.
The foliage is deep gray-green above; silver beneath.
The fruits, up to 1 inch in length, are green, later ripening to black.
They are extremely valuable, and are among the healthiest of all oils for cooking.
Trees generally bear fruit after reaching the age of 10.
Trees need to be planted in groups to achieve good fruit production.
The oil content of the fruit is usually about 25 %. An orchard of Olive can bear up to 2 tons per acre. This tree is extensively grown as a commercial crop in southern Europe, southwest Asia, northern Africa and to a lesser extent in Argentina and the southwest U.S. It also makes an excellent landscape tree for other mediterranean climate regions in the world such as central Chile and southwestern Australia.
In parts of southern Australia it grows too vigorously and spreads too fast, thus becoming a weed.
The dark gray bark on older trees is fissured.
Hardy zones 8 to 10, hot summers are required to fruit production.

* photos of unknown internet source

* video found on Youtube

'Little Ollie'
An attractive cultivar used as a landscape plant.
The foliage is deep green.

'Lucca'
Very vigorous and large growing, producing abundant fruits that are used for excellent tasting oil ( fruits contain around 28% oil content ).
Hardy zones 8 to 10, it is among the more cold hardy Olives.

'Majestic Beauty'
Fast growing, it does not produce fruit so it can be planted as a street tree or to shade the driveway. Not sure about the point of growing a fruitless Olive...I think I'd just grow the real thing and pick all the fruit before they fall.
Hardy zones 8 to 10.

'Manzanillo'
A large tree that can live up to 2000 years, possibly more.
There is attractive, leathery foliage on this cultivar commonly grown in mediterranean climates throughout the world. The abundant, large fruits are purplish-green to black. The fruits are very often sold for eating at your local grocery store.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 ( tolerating at least as low as 12 F ) it is also extremely heat tolerant and is among the best cultivars for the Deep South in the U.S.

'Mission;
Vigorous, reaching up to 40 x 40 feet, and commonly planted in California and in fact the most common cultivar in northern California.
It is self fertile not needing a pollinator to produce fruit.
The black fruits can be eaten or made into olive oil.
More cold hardy than species ( zones 7b to 10 ). It has been known to tolerate 0 F and resprout after being killed to the ground at -4 F. It is the most cold hardy Olive and can be grown where many other Olives can't be grown.

'Swan Hill'
Fast growing, reaching up to 30 x 25 feet.
Hardy zones 8 to 10.

Olea excelsa ( Picconia )
A handsome, impressive, medium-sized, evergreen tree that is native to the Canary Islands. It can reach a maximum height of 60 feet with a trunk diameter of 3 feet.
The elliptical leaves, up to 4 x 2 inches, are glossy deep green.
Hardy zones 9 to 10, it thrives in England only around Cornwall.

Olea lanceolata ( White Maire )
A slow growing, small to medium-sized tree that is native to New Zealand.
Some records include: largest on record - 50 feet with a trunk diameter of 3.5 feet.

Olea laurifolia
A large tree, that is native to Africa. It can reach a maximum height of 120 feet with a trunk diameter of 4.5 feet.
The elliptical leaves, up to 4 x 1.5 inches, are glossy green.
The very strong timber is the heaviest wood of any species of tree.
Hardy zone 9

Olea yunnanensis
An extremely rare, elegant, large evergreen tree, reaching a maximum height of 100 feet, that is native to western China.
The leaves are up to 7 x 3 inches.
Hardy zone 8

Mountain Laurels

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Kalmia

Hating waterlogged clay and lime; the Kalmias prefer and thrive on moist, light, slightly acid, WELL DRAINED soil in the cool, moist dappled shade under trees. They prefer the shade of coniferous trees such as Hemlock as full sun during winter can damage the foliage. Mulch lightly with leaf humus or shredded hardwood mulch to keep soil cool and moist. Mixing peat moss into the entire planting bed will improve establishment and growth. Fertilizing with Holly-tone during early spring, late spring, around July 1 and mid-autumn will also improve growth. During drought, it is recommended to water plants deeply once every week to 2 weeks, rather than frequently.
Little pruning is needed other than removing old flower heads to speed up and improve growth. Other pruning can be done during early spring if required. A well pruned plant will be more compact and dense than if left alone.
For reproducing; the seed should be collected immediately upon ripening in autumn and planted the following spring.
Layering is easy; you just set it down in the autumn then cut and separate the offspring a year later. Tip cuttings can be done in late summer but are difficult to root.
Transplanting should be done during autumn or spring before growth begins. Never pick up a Kalmia by the stem as this can severely injure the root system. Always grab it by the container or below the roots.
The Kalmias are deer resistant! They should not be eaten by people either - they are not edible.
The species and some cultivars are prone to leaf spot while other cultivars are immune. Blight, scale and borers may sometimes occur, however Kalmias are usually easy to grow if soil is acidic and well drained.

Kalmia angustifolia ( Sheep Laurel )
A dwarf, dense, bushy, mounding, upright shrub native to acidic bogs in northeast North America ( from Ontario to Labrador and Newfoundland, south to Michigan to Virginia & North Carolina ).
It is a slow growing, spreading dense bush to 3 feet or very rarely 6.5 x 6 feet.
The oblong leaves, up to 3 ( rarely over 2 ) inches in length, are smooth, glossy deep green.
The rosy-red, saucer-shaped flowers are borne in dense clusters during early summer.
Pharmacology: entire plant is poisonous.
Hardy zones 1 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on sandy or peaty, acidic soil.
Propagation is from seed sown during autumn. Cultivars can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken during summer.

subsp' Carolina'
Foliage is downy beneath and the flowers are deep red.

'Purpurflor'
Upright in habit, reaching up to 2.5 feet in height.
The linear leaves, up to 0.2 inches in length, are gray-green.
The flowers, up to 0.4 inches across, are deep purplish-red.

'Rubra'
Pink-red flowers with a long bloom period.

'Stodge Meadow'
Upright in habit, reaching up to 3 feet in height.
The very profuse flowers are reddish-pink.

Kalmia hirsuta ( Sandhill Laurel )
Also called K. ciliata. An attractive small, evergreen shrub, reaching up to 2 feet in height, that is native to pine woods, pine-savanna and sand dunes in the southeast U.S. ( from southern Alabama to southeastern South Carolina; south to central Florida ).
The alternately-arranged, ovate to elliptical leaves, up to 0.5 inches in length, are hairy and gray-green.
Hardy zones 8 to 9 in full sun on very well drained soil.

Kalmia latifolia ( Mountain Laurel, Calico Bush )
Native to oak & pine forests of eastern North America, especially to the Appalatian Mountains and the Northeast.
It is often a dense bushy rounded large shrub around 10 feet but on ideal sites can also grow into s small tree reaching up to 20 x 20 feet in 20 years. Rarely larger; the largest trees ever recorded reach up to 50 x 20 feet with a massive trunk diameter up to 4 feet. Long lived up to 100 years or more.
The elliptic evergreen foliage is up to 4 or rarely 6 x 3.5 inches in size and smooth dark green above & paler below.
The flowers are typically pink in terminal clusters. They typically bloom for a 2 to 4 week period during late spring into early summer ( unless otherwise noted on cultivars below ).
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in partial shade, preferring fertile, light, sandy, acid soil. Pruning not recomended - plants regenerate very slowly when cut back.
Propagation is by seed in autumn and by softwood cuttings in summer. Layering in fall also works. Is also commonly planted in the British Isles.

* photos taken on May 22 in Ellicott City, MD

This massive beauty is growing behind the Asian Gardens at the U.S. National Arboretum in DC

* photos taken on May 8 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.

* photo taken on May 1 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.

'Big Boy'
Compact and upright in habit, reaching up to 6 x 6 feet, with large foliage that resembles a Rhododendron. Some records include: 10 years - 6 x 5 feet.
The thick foliage is glossy deep green. The leaves are huge for a Kalmia.
The flowers are pale pink.
Hardy zones 4 to 8.

'Bullseye'
Rapid growing, dense, bushy and upright in habit, reaching a maximum size of 8 x 8 feet. Some records include: 10 years - 6 x 6 feet; fastest growth rate - 2 feet.
The wavy-edged leaves are bronze-red at first, turning to glossy deep green.
The deep purple flowers deep purple variegated with a white edge and center.
The flowers are borne on clusters, up to 4 inches across.
The stems are purplish-red.
Hardy zones 4 to 8. Very tolerant of hot humid summers.

'Carol'
Compact, dense and broad-spreading in habit, reaching an eventual size up to 8 x 8 feet. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 15 inches; 10 years - 5 x 5 feet.
The thick, wavy-edged, broad leaves are glossy deep green.
The bright red flowerbuds open to white flowers.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, resistant to leaf spot.

'Carousel'
Fast growing, dense and bushy, reaching a maximum size of 8 x 8 feet.
Some records include: fastest growth rate - 14 inches; 10 years - 6 x 6 feet.
The foliage is glossy deep green.
The flowers are pink or red with white banding. They are borne in clusters up to 4 inches across.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, resistant to leaf spot.

'Elf'
Slow growing, compact, and stiff branched; it reaches a maximum size of 6 x 6 feet.
Some records include: fastest growth rate - 15 inches; 10 years - 4 x 4 feet.
Young plants are upright, later becoming spreading.
This cultivar was developed by plant hybridizer Richard Jaynes.
The leaves are matte deep green rather than glossy.
The pure white flowers, up to 0.8 inches across, are pale pink in bud.
The stems are reddish.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, it unfortunately prone to leaf spot - do not wet the foliage unless absolutely necessary.

* photos taken on May 6 2010 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

'Firecracker'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 4 x 4 feet in 10 years, eventually more.
This cultivar was developed by plant hybridizer Richard Jaynes.
The foliage is glossy deep green.
The flowers are deep red in bud, opening to pinkish-white during early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, it is resistant to leafspot.

'Freckles'
Vigorous in habit, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 5 feet.
Some records include: 10 years - 3 x 4.5 feet.
The attractive foliage is glossy deep green.
White flowers with 10 bold deep purple spots arranged around the perimeter of the center. The flowers are pink in bud, they appear on the plants at a young age.
The shoots are reddish.
Hardy zones 4 to 8. Very shade tolerant and easy to grow.

'Galaxy'
Vigorous and upright in habit, it can reach an eventual size of 8 x 8 feet.
Some records include; 10 years - 4.5 x 3.5 feet.
The handsome foliage is glossy mid-green.
The deep red flowers are variegated with a white center and petal edges.
Hardy zones 4 to 7.

'Hearts Desire'
Dense and broad-spreading in habit, reaching up to 5 x 5 feet.
Some records include: 10 years - 4 x 4.5 feet.
The foliage is purplish-red at first, turning to very glossy deep green.
The abundant flowers are deep red and edged in white.
They are borne on dense, large trusses during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, resistant to leaf spot.

'Hearts of Fire'
Originating as a seedling of 'Ostebo Red', it is upright in habit, reaching around 6 x 6 feet. Some records include: 10 years - 5 x 4.5 feet.
The foliage is glossy green.
The large flowers are red in bud, opening to deep pink with darker edges.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, resistant to leaf spot.

'Kaleidoscope'
Dense and upright to rounded, reaching up to 5 x 5 feet in 10 years, eventually more.
This cultivar was developed by plant hybridizer Richard Jaynes.
The foliage is glossy deep green.
The stunning flowers are very deep red and variegated with white petal edges.
They are deep red in bud.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

'Keepsake'
Dense and rounded in habit, reaching up to 6 x 6 feet in 10 years, eventually more.
This cultivar was developed by plant hybridizer Richard Jaynes.
The attractive, very glossy broad leaves are red-bronze at first, turning to very glossy deep blue-green with a red tinge.
The flowers are purplish-red in bud. They open to deep red with a narrow white edge.
It is similar to 'Kaleidoscope' but the flowers are even deeper red contrasting with the white edge.
The new growth stems are bright pinkish-red.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, resistant to leaf spot.

'Little Linda'
Slow growing, compact, dense and rounded in habit, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 4 feet.
Some records include: fastest growth rate - 1 feet; 8 years - 2.5 x 2.5 feet; 10 years - 3 x 3 feet. It is denser than 'Elf' in habit.
The small, ovate leaves are glossy to waxy deep green.
The red flower buds open to pinkish-white and fading to rich pink.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, resistant to leaf spot.

'Minuet'
Compact and dense in habit, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 5 feet.
Some records include: fastest growth rate - 1 foot; 10 years - 4 x 4 feet.
This cultivar was developed by plant hybridizer Richard Jaynes.
The glossy deep green leaves are narrow and small.
The flowers, up to 1 inch across, are pale pink to nearly white with red-brown banding. The flowers which are large for a dwarf, are pink in bud.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, resistant to leafspot.

'Nathan Hale'
Compact, dense and rounded in habit, reaching a maximum size of 8 x 6 feet.
Some records include: 10 years - 4 x 4 feet. It is great for use in large containers on the urban patio if shaded.
The thick, large leaves are reddish at first, turning to very glossy deep green.
The flowers are red in bud, opening to pale pink.
The flowers are borne during early summer, later than other species.
The stems are purplish-red.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, it is resistant to leaf spot.

'Nipmuck'
Fast growing and upright in habit, it reaches up to 4.5 x 4 feet in 10 years, eventually more.
The foliage is glossy deep green.
The flowers are scarlet-red in bud, opening to soft pink or white.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

'Olympic Fire'
Vigorous, dense and upright in habit, it reaches up to 6 feet or more.
Some records include: growth rate - 6 inches, 10 years - 5 x 5 feet.
The thick, wavy-margined broad leaves are luxuriant glossy deep green.
The large flowers are bright red in bud. They open to bright pink during early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, it is very resistant to leafspot.

'Ostebo Red'
Vigorous, dense, compact and sturdy in habit, it reaches a maximum size of 15 x 15 feet after many decades. Some records include: 10 years - 6 x 6 feet.
The twisted, wavy-edged leaves are luxuriant glossy mid-green.
The flowers are scarlet-red in bud opening to deep pink.
Tolerant of hot humid summers.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

'Peppermint'
Dense and rounded in habit, reaching an eventual size of 5 x 5 feet.
Some records include: 10 years - 4 3.5 feet.
The foliage is reddish-bronze at first, turning to glossy mid-green.
The flowers are white with red stripes radiating out from a red center.
The flowers are mid-pink in bud.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

'Pink Charm'
A moderate growing, open, rounded shrub, reaching up to 6 x 6 feet.
Some records include: 10 years - 3.5 x 3.5 feet.
The foliage is luxuriant deep green.
The flowers are red in bud, opening to deep pink.
This cultivar blooms at a very young age.
The stems are purplish-red.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

'Pink Frost'
Vigorous, upright and rounded, reaching up to 5 x 5 feet.
Some records include: 10 years - 3.5 x 3.5 feet.
The broad leaves are glossy deep green.
The flowers are pink in bud, opening to bright pink.
They are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, it is resistant to leaf spot.
Cuttings are easy to root.

'Pristine'
Dense and compact in habit, it reaches an eventual size of 6 x 6 feet.
Some records include: fastest growth rate - 1.5 feet; 10 years - 3 x 3 feet.
The leaves are glossy deep green.
The flowers are pure white both in bud and after they open.
Hardy zones 5 to 8, originating in South Carolina, it is more heat and humidity tolerant than other varieties however attention is needed regarding moisture as it is less drought tolerant than some other species.

'Raspberry Glow'
Vigorous, dense, upright and rounded, it reaches up to 6 x 5 feet in 10 years, eventually more.
The attractive, twisted, wavy-edged leaves are luxuriant deep green.
The deep red flowerbuds open to deep reddish-pink flowers.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, it is resistant to leaf spot.

'Red Bandit'
Slow growing, dense, compact and upright in habit, it reaches up to 4 x 3 feet in 10 years, and as much as 10 feet in 25 years.
The elliptic leaves, up to 4 x 1.5 inches in size, are glossy deep green.
The showy flowers, up to 0.8 inches across, are deep pink with red banding.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

'Sarah'
Vigorous, dense and rounded in habit, it can reach up to 8 x 8 ( rarely over 5 ) feet in 10 years, eventually more.
The broad leaves are luxuriant glossy deep green.
The flowers are red in bud, opening to pinkish-red.
The flowers are borne over a long season.
The stems and leafstalks are purplish-red.
Hardy zones 4 to 8. Heat tolerant but is more prone to over fertilize and salt than many cultivars.

'Silver Dollar'
Dense and rounded in habit, reaching up to 3.5 x 3.5 feet in 10 years, eventually more.
The large, leathery leaves are deep green.
The large white flowers, up to 2 inches across, are pink in bud.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

'Snowdrift'
Compact and dense in habit, reaching up to 5 x 5 feet in 10 years, eventually to 6 x 5 feet or more.
This cultivar was developed by plant hybridizer Richard Jaynes.
The broad leaves are bright green at first, turning to glossy deep green. The foliage remains a good green color even in winter.
The flowers are pink in bud, opening to pure white during early summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8.

'Starburst'
Spreading and mounding in habit, reaching up to 5 x 6 feet.
It was originally hybridized by Richard Jaynes.
The foliage is glossy deep green.
The abundant flowers are deep red banded.
Hardy zones 4 to 8

'Tiddywinks'
A slow growing, compact dwarf, reaching up to 3 x 3 feet in 10 years, eventually slightly more. This cultivar was developed by plant hybridizer Richard Jaynes.
The luxuriant glossy deep green leaves are about half the size of that on regular Kalmia latifolia. The leaves are usually resistant to leaf spot.
The pink flowerbuds open to bright pink flowers.
The flowers are large for such as small plant, they are also so abundant that the plant is barely visible.
The stems are reddish.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, it is shade tolerant and easy to grow.

'Tinkerbell'
A vigorous dense, compact dwarf, reaching up to 3 x 3.5 feet in 10 years, eventually more. It is similar to 'Tiddywinks' but faster growing.
The small leaves are deep green.
The rich deep pink flowers persist over a long season.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, resistant to leafspot.

'Willowcrest'
Slow growing and compact, it reaches up to 3 x 3.5 feet in 10 years, eventually more.
The linear, willow-like leaves are mid-green. The leaves persist for 3 years.
The flowers are pink in bud, opening to pale pink.
Hardy zones 4 to 8, it is resistant to leaf spot.

Kalmia microphylla ( Western Bog Laurel )
A small evergreen shrub, reaching up to 2 feet in height, that is native to western North America from southern Alaska through British Columbia, Washington State and Oregon. This native of swamps and bogs, is a great plant for the bog or rock garden.
The oppositely-arranged, small, lance-shaped to narrow-elliptic leaves, up to 1.5 inches in length, are glossy deep green above, gray beneath.
The purplish-pink flowers are borne during spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 6 in full sun to partial shade on humus-rich, moist soil.

Kalmia polifolia ( Swamp Laurel )
A dwarf, evergreen shrub native to northeast North America from Alaska to Labrador, south to California, Michigan & New Jersey. Usually reaching around 2 feet, the largest on record is 3.5 x 3.5 feet.
The oppositely-arranged, thin, leathery leaves, up to 1.5 inches in length, are glossy, dark green above, silvery beneath.
The flowers are vivid pink-purple in large terminal clusters in early spring.
Native to bogs and swamps in the wild.
Hardy zones 2 to 7

Lycoris

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Lycoris
A genus of bulbs that are part of the larger Amaryllis family. The funnel-shaped flowers appear late summer after the foliage dies down.
Plant the bulbs no more than 6 inches deep and 1 foot apart.
Most species are hardy from zones 7 to 9

* photos taken on Aug 2011 in Columbia, MD

Lycoris aurea ( Golden Spider Lily )
Reaches up to 2 x 2 feet and is a native to China and Japan.
The golden-yellow flowers are up to 4 ( rarely over 3 ) inches across.
Hardy zones 7 to 10

Lycoris 'Hill Beyond Hill'
Flower scapes, up to 2 feet in height, bear spidery flowers that are yellow fading to creamy-white.
Hardy zones 7 to 10 ( possibly 6 )

Lycoris 'Oosumi'

* photos taken on March 28 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.

Lycoris radiata ( Red Spider Lily )
Native to the Orient, it reaches up to 3.3 feet.
The leaves are up to 18 inches in length.
The orange-red, spidery flowers are up to 2 inches across.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 ( mulch heavily during winter in colder regions ).

Lycoris sanguinea
Reaches up to 2 feet in height, with red flowers, up to 2.4 inches across.
Hardy zones 6 to 9

Lycoris squamigera
Reaches up to 3 x 2 feet and can spread rapidly.
The leaves are up to 12 x 2 inches.
The pink flowers, up to 4 inches across, are borne on large inflorescences.
Hardy north to zone 4 if summers are hot.

* photos taken on Aug 3 2011 in Columbia, MD

Decaisnea

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Decaisnea fargesii
A multi-stemmed, upright, large shrub, reaching up to 20 x 20 feet, that is native to western China. It is one of 2 species of plants in the Decaisnea genus which is part of the larger Lardizabalaceae family.
The bold pinnate leaves, up to 3 feet in length, are composed of up to 25 large, oval leaflets, up to 6 inches in length.
The foliage is deep blue-green. The foliage turns yellow during autumn.
The yellowish-green, bell-shaped flowers are borne on pendulous panicles, up to 20 inches in length. They are not fragrant.
The flowers are followed by very showy, metallic-blue, finger-sized pods borne on clusters. The pods ripen during autumn and persist well into winter when they are very showy. The seeds are black.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on just about any moist, fertile, well drained soil. Very easy to grow once it is established, pests and diseases rarely occur. It is recommended to protect young plants from cold sweeping winter winds ( building a temporary burlap enclosure may help ).
Propagation is easily done by opening up the pods and sowing the black seeds.
They do not grow well in containers and are difficult to transplant and it is often easier just to seed them in their permanent setting.

Decaisnea insignis
Very similar, except with golden-yellow fruit.

Lyonia

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A genus of 35 species of trees and shrubs originating from the eastern U.S., Mexico plus also the Caribbean where many species are endangered with extinction. There are also a few species that are native to warm, low elevation woodlands in Asia from the Himalayas to Japan.
All species of Lyonia have simple leaves arranged alternatively along the stems.
They should be much more widely used in the landscape as both the foliage and the flowers are very attractive. The flower clusters on many species are similar to that of Lily-of-the-Valley. Pests and disease rarely occur on these plants so that the foliage remains attractive throughout the entire season.
Lyonia require partial shade and consistently moist, neutral to acidic soil.
Most species do not tolerate drought. Pruning is rarely needed but plants can be shaped during late spring or any other time ( do not shear...if ruins their attractive natural shape ).
Propagation can be achieved from sowing seeds during autumn, layering during spring or semi-ripe cuttings taken during summer. They are easy to transplant while small.

Lyonia ferruginea ( Tree Lyonia )
A twisted-trunked, small evergreen tree, that is native to sandy forests in the southeastern U.S. ( southern Georgia to South Carolina, south into Florida )
Some records include: largest on record - 45 x 30 feet with a trunk diameter of 1 foot.
The pointed-elliptical, leathery leaves, up to 4 x 2 inches, are glossy mid-green.
The small, white, urn-shaped flowers, up to 0.1 inches across, are borne from the leaf axils during mid spring.
They are followed by a light brown capsule, up to 0.5 inches in length.
The scaly, ridged bark is red-brown.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It is very drought tolerant but does not tolerate salt.

Lyonia ligustrina ( Maleberry )
A deciduous, dense, large shrub, that is native to the eastern U.S. ( on the coastal plain from Texas to Florida, north to Maine ). Some records include: fastest growth rate - 2 feet; largest on record - 25 x 20 feet.
The finely-toothed, hard-textured leaves, up to 3 inches in length, are green. The foliage which turns brilliant-red to purplish-red during autumn, resembles that of the Privet.
The small, creamy-white, urn-shaped flowers, are borne on dense, terminal panicles during late summer.
They are followed by
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil. It is generally found on swampy land in the wild.

'Foliosa'
Leaves persist very late in fall.

Lyonia lucida ( Fetterbush )
An erect, dense, medium-sized, evergreen shrub, that is native to U.S. ( on the coastal plain from Louisiana to Florida, north to Virginia ). It will grow much further north than its native range suggests but becomes deciduous north of zone 7.
Some records include: largest on record - 13 x 13 ( averaging 4 x 6 ) feet.
The rolled-margin, pointed, leathery leaves, up to 3.5 inches in length, are glossy green.
The hanging, white to pinkish-white, bell-shaped flowers, borne on axilliary clusters towards the stem tips during late spring into early summer.
The stems are 3-angled unlike any other species of Lyonia making identification easy.
Hardy zones 5 to 8

'Rubra'
Flowers are dark pink, otherwise similar.

Lyonia mariana
A moderate growing, dense, erect, deciduous shrub, reaching a maximum size of 7 x 4 feet, that is native to the eastern U.S. ( on the coastal plain and Mississippi Valley from Arkansas and Louisiana to Florida, northwards to Rhode Island ).
It makes an attractive landscape plant and is tidy in habit.
The leatehry leaves, up to 7 inches in length, are deep green.
The foliage looks similar to Vaccinium corymbosum but is larger.
The hanging, white or pinkish-white, bell-shaped flowers are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in partial shade on acidic, sandy loam.
Tolerant of wet conditions.

Lyonia ovalifolia
A evergreen, small tree, reaching around 15 x 15 feet on average, that is native to from mountainous western China to Japan. Some records include: largest on record - 40 feet with a trunk diameter of 2 feet.
The oval leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are glossy bright-green.
The profuse, showy, pure white, bell-shaped flowers are borne on clusters, up to 2.5 inches in length.
The bark is fibrous and brown.
Hardy zones 6 to 9

Partridge Berry

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Mitchella repens
A very low, trailing, woody, evergreen groundcover, reaching up to 6 inches in height, that slowly spreads to a maximum width of up to 20 feet over 30 years, though easily contained. Its average width in about 10 years is only 3.3 feet.
The attractive rounded leaves, up to 1.3 inches in length, are glossy deep green with white veining.
The tiny, pinkish-white, funnel-shaped flowers, up to 0.4 inches in length, are borne paired during late spring.
They are followed by scarlet-red berries, edible during autumn, persisting through most of the winter.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in partial to full shade on fertile, neutral to acidic, well drained soil. It is important to removed fallen leaves during autumn as they can easily smother this plant. Propagation is from seed and naturally layered stems.

* photo of unknown internet source

Alabama Snow-Wreath

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Neviusia alabamensis
An upright but broad, suckering, deciduous shrub, reaching a maximum size of 6.5 x 10 feet, that is a close relative of Kerria. This is one of 2 species in the Neviusia genus and it is native to Alabama in the eastern U.S. where it is endangered with extinction in the wild.
The saw-toothed leaves are up to 3.5 inches in length. The very attractive foliage is mid-green above, downy beneath.
The very showy, fluffy, white flowers are borne mid to late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun on fertile, light, well drained soil. Easy to grow and tolerant of drought though looks better if irrigated deeply once weekly during dry spells. Cut out tired or dead stalks at the base after blooming to tidy appearance and enhance vigor ( similar to pruning of most Spirea ).
Propagation can be achieved from seed, layering ( often occurs naturally in the wild ), cuttings or division.

Neviusia cliftonii ( Mount Shasta Snow-Wreath )
Very similar to the Alabama Snow-Wreath and has a tiny native range in the Mount Shasta region of California.

Neviusia dunthornei
Presumed to be extinct but is known from fossils to have occured in the Okanagan Highlands in interior British Columbia and Washington State, mostly on shale deposits.

Roscoea

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A genus of perennials that are part of the larger Ginger family. The orchid-like flower are borne on short spikes during summer. These plants go dormant autumn through spring.

Roscoea alpina
A perennial, reaching up to 1 foot x 5 inches, with pink to purplish flowers borne during summer.
Hardy zones 7 to 9.

Roscoea beesiana
A perennial, reaching up to 16 inches x 1 foot, with yellow flowers that are tipped lilac-purple.

Roscoea cautleoides
A perennial, reaching up to 2 x 1 foot, with pale yellow hooded flowers during summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 9.

* photo of unknown internet source

Roscoea humeana
A perennial, reaching up to 20 inches x 1 foot, bearing large flowers that are violet-purple with a yellow throat.
Hardy zones 6 to 9

Roscoea purpurea
A perennial, reaching up to 2.5 x 1 ( rarely over 1.5 ) feet, bearing rich purple flowers. The leaves are up to 6 inches in length.
Hardy zones 6 to 9

Roscoea thibetica
A slow spreading, long lived, rhizomatous perennial, reaching up to 8 inches in height; that is native from India to western China ( Yunnan, Tibet and Sichuan ) as well as Burma.
The leaves form rosettes.
The deep purple flowers are borne on terminal spikes, during mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 in partial shade on consistently moist, well drained soil that is mulched. The brittle, fleshy roots do not like disturbance including transplanting. Transplanting if necessary should be done in autumn in mild climates, early to mid spring in colder climates. For propagation - collect seed during autumn, store it in a fridge, then plant out during spring.

Roscoea wardii
A slow spreading, long lived, rhizomatous perennial, reaching up to 1 foot in height; that is native from India to western China ( Yunnan and Tibet ) as well as Burma.
The leaves form rosettes.
The deep purple flowers are borne on terminal spikes during early summer.
Hardy zones 6b to 9 in partial shade on consistently moist, well drained soil that is mulched. The brittle, fleshy roots do not like disturbance including transplanting. Transplanting if necessary should be done in autumn in mild climates, early to mid spring in colder climates. For propagation - collect seed during autumn, store it in a fridge, then plant out during spring.

Tansy, Costmary & Painted Daisy

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Tanacetum

Tanacetum balsamita ( Costmary )
An invasively rhizomatous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6 x 3.5+ feet.
The leaves are up to 18 inches in length.
The foliage is used as a spice to add a spicy touch to salads.
Hardy zones 5 to 7 in full sun to partial shade.

Tanacetum coccineum ( Painted Daisy )
Also called Pyrethrum or Chrysanthemum coccineum. A perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 2 feet, that is native to the Caucasus in western Asia.
The feathery leaves, up to 10 ( rarely over 6 ) inches, are bright green.
The large, red daisies, up to 4 inches across, are borne during early to mid summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on fertile, alkaline, well drained soil. Cut back hard after flowering. Deadheading encourages continuing bloom.
Divide every 2 or 3 years during autumn or spring to maintain vigor. It can also be propagated from cuttings or seed.
Pharmacology: due to its insecticidal properties, it makes a great companion plant for plants that are prone to insects.

'Aphrodite'
Double white flowers.

'Avalanche'
White,single flowers.

'Brenda'
Deep reddish-pink, single flowers.

'Crimson Giant'
Large deep red, single flowers.

'Duro'
Reaches up to 32 inches in height, bearing very large, purple-red flowers, otherwise similar.

'Helen'
Bright pink, double flowers, otherwise identical.

'James Kelway'
Intense, scarlet-red single flowers.

'Poinsettia'
Large, red, double flowers.

'Robinson Rose'
Bright rosy-pink single blooms.

'Robinson Single Hybrids'
Large single blooms ranging from white to pink or scarlet-red.

'Vanessa'
Pink ( gold in center ) double flowers.

'Robinson's Doubles'
Reaches up to 2.5 feet in height, with double flowers of various colors borne all summer long.

'Robinson's Red'
Reaches up to 3 feet in height, with large, single flowers that are red, otherwise similar.

Tanacetum haradjanii
A low-growing perennial, native to Turkey.
The finely-dissected, lacy foliage is intense silvery.

Tanacetum huronense
A perennial, reaching up to 1 x 3.5 feet, that is native to the northern Great Lakes.
The ferny foliage is luxuriant mid-green.
The flowers, up to 1 inch across, are golden-yellow.
Hardy zones 4 to 6 in full sun to partial shade.

Tanacetum marophyllum
A rapid growing, rhizomatous perennial, reaching up to 5 feet.
The leaves are up to 8 inches in length.
The large white flowers are borne late summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

Tanacetum parthenium ( Feverfew )
A fast growing, bushy, short-lived perennial, reaching up to 4 feet in height.
The aromatic, foliage is feathery. The leaves are often dried and used for herbal products. Feverfew has been used as a natural remedy for migraines.
The abundant, small, white daisies, up to 0.7 inches across, are borne on branched sprays over a very long period during summer and often persisting into fall.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 ( mulch deeply during winter north of zone 6 ) in full sun on well drained soil. It is propagated from seed and it often self seeds.
Pinch plants back by half at the very end of spring for a more compact habit.

'Aureum'
Smaller in size, reaching up to 3 x 1.5+ ( rarely over 2 ) feet, with golden-yellow foliage. The flowers are single and white.

'Double White'
Reaches up to 3 feet in height, with pure white, double flowers.

'Golden Ball'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 1.5 feet in height, with golden-yellow flowers.

'White Stars'
Compact in habit, reaching up to 1.5 feet in height, with white ( yellow centered ) daisies.

Tanacetum vulgare ( Tansy )
A fast growing to invasive, thickly-rhizomatous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5 x 6 ( rarely over 4 ) feet, that is native to most of Europe though now also found in the wild in North America from British Columbia to Newfoundland; south through most of the U.S.
The attractive pinnate leaves, up to 8 inches in length, are composed of deeply double-toothed, ovate to oval leaflets. The foliage is mid-green to deep green.
The showy, golden-yellow flowers, up to 0.5 inches across, are borne on flat clusters during mid summer to early autumn. Very profuse blooming, up to 200 flowers may appear at a time on a plant.
The flowers are foliage are not edible and should not be eaten as they contain toxic compounds. Tansy is does have its benefits, this plant is highly repulsive to insects. It makes an excellent companion plant for Potatoes as it is so repulsive to the Colorado Potato Beetle that is my nearly eliminate that insect thus eliminate need for toxic insecticides. It can also be used to repel ants and is sometimes planted along home foundations for that reason. Tansy also repels Cucumber Beetles and Squash Bugs, also making it a valuable companion for those plants.
Deer do not eat Tansy.
Hardy zones 2 to 9 in full sun on well drained soil; it is very easy to grow.
Tolerates moderate drought.

* photo of unknown internet source

'Crispum'
A perennial, reaching up to 4 feet with very curly, deeply cut leaves.
The aromatic, fern-like foliage is deep green.
The yellow flowers are borne during summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun.

Mallows

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Lavatera ( Tree Mallow )

* photos of unknown internet source

Lavatera 'Barnsley'
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 10 x 8 feet, bearing white ( with red center ) flowers from early summer to mid autumn.
The leaves are up to 5 inches in length.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun.

Lavatera 'Burgundy Wine'
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 5 feet, with pale lilac flowers borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun.

Lavatera 'Kew Rose'
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 10 feet, with purple stems bearing deep pink flowers.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun.

Lavatera 'Sense'
A vigorous, compact perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.5 feet.
The flowers are pink.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun.

Malva ( Rose Mallows )

Malva alcea 'Fastigiata' ( Hollyhock Mallow )
An upright form of a very vigorous common perennial, reaching a maximum size of 4 x 4 feet, that is native to southern Europe.
The toothed, deeply-lobed, Maple-like leaves, up to 6 inches across, are bright green.
The abundant, rosy-pink, bowl-shaped flowers, up to 3 inches across, are borne from early summer until autumn frosts.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
Heat and drought tolerant, it is very easy to grow. Cut back to the basal leaves after flowering. It is rarely bothered by pests or disease.
Propagation is from seed or stem cuttings.

Malva moschata ( Musk Mallow )
A rounded bushy perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3.5 x 3 feet, that is native to Europe.
The double-divided leaves, up to 4 inches in length, are mid-green.
The musky-scented, pink ( less often lavender ), bowl-shaped flowers, up to 2.3 inches across, are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
It is rarely bothered by pests or disease. Propagation is from seed or stem cuttings.

'Alba'
White flowers, otherwise identical.

'Rosea'
Pink flowers.

Malva sylvestris mauritaniana
An impressive, upright perennial, reaching up to 4 x 2.5 feet.
The large, intense red-purple, single, hollyhock-like flowers are borne mid summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 ( tolerating as low as -40 F ) in full sun to partial shade.

Sphaeralcea

Sphaeralcea munroana ( Munro Globe Mallow )
A perennial, reaching up to 3.5 x 2 feet, that is native to the western U.S.
The scarlet-red flowers are borne during mid-summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 9. Very drought tolerant due to its deep taproot. Clay tolerant.
Cut back to near ground during early spring. Deer resistant.

Heart-Leaved Oxeye

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Telekia speciosa ( Scented Ox Eye )
A vigorous, rapid spreading, thick sturdy stemmed, upright perennial, reaching a maximum size of 6.5 x 6 ( rarely over 5 ) feet, that is native to the European Alps.
It looks great massed in a large planting.
The very large leaves, up to 24 x 10 inches in size, are mid-green.
The yellow, daisy-like flowers are borne in large clusters during summer.
Hardy zones 2 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

Washingtonia Palms

2011-12-30T23:36:00.009-05:00

Washingtonia
A genus 2 species of Fan Palms that are native to the southwestern U.S. and northwestern Mexico. They are very easy to grow in dry or mediterranean climates and are tolerant of heat, drought, wind and salt. They are not prone to lethal yellowing.
They are often used for lining streets and highways. The Washingtonias do not enjoy climates with year round high humidity.

Washingtonia filifera ( Washingtonia Palm )
A moderate growing, stout, large palm, that is native to the southern California and Nevada as well as neighboring northwest Mexico. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 3 feet; largest on record - 130 x 40 ( rarely over 80 ) feet with a trunk diameter of 4.5 feet. It is very long-lived with trees as old as 260 years being known.
The fan-shaped, palmate leaves, up to 5 feet across, are borne on spiny leafstalks.
The foliage is bright green. The old leaves usually persist on the trees but are often pruned off for appearance and fire prevention.
The creamy-white flowers are borne on panicles, up to 16.5 ( rarely over 10 ) feet in length.
They are followed by small, blackish-brown, hard drupes.
The prolific fruits are produced mid to late summer in clusters up to 10+ pounds.
The thick trunk is gray.
They prefer full sun on moderately moist, fertile soil.
Propagation is easy from seed.
Hardy zones 8 to 11 in full sun. Fully established trees are very tolerant of drought.

* photos of unknown internet source

* videos found on Youtube

'Truth or Consequences'
Hardier, reported to even tolerate temporary exposure to as low as 0 F.

Washingtonia robusta ( Mexican Fan Palm )
A fast growing, slender but very tall palm, that is native to far northwestern Mexico though it is very commonly planted in southern California. Some records include: 7 years - 50 feet ( usually half that ); largest on record - 140 x 20 feet with a trunk diameter of 3 feet. It is shorter lived than Washingtonia filifera, living up to 100 years or rarely more.
The fan-shaped, palmate leaves, up to feet across, are borne on spiny, reddish-brown leafstalks. The foliage is bright green.
The creamy-pink flowers are borne on panicles, up to feet in length, during summer.
They are followed by dark brown drupes.
They prefer full sun on moderately moist, fertile soil.
Propagation is easy from seed.
Hardy zones 8 to 11 ( defoliation occurs at 12 F ).

* photos of unknown internet source

Fiber Palm

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Trithrinax

A genus of 5 species of Fan Palms native to South America.
They generally have thick trunks covered in fibrous leaf sheaths that persist.
They also have leafstalks that are often spined.
Trithrinax requires full sun on fertile, well drained soil. Grows best if kept moist though very tolorant of drought. They are reproduced form seed.

Trithrinax acanthocoma ( Spiny Fiber Palm )

From Brazil and Argentina; this slow growing Palm reaches up to 15 feet in height with a trunk diameter of 4 inches. The solitary stout trunk is densely covered in dark brown spiky fiber.
The fan shaped leaves, up to 3 feet across, are gray-green. The leaflets reach up to 24 x 2 inches.
The long showy sprays of creamy-white flowers are followed by round, cream-colored berries up to an inch across.
Hardy from zone 8b to 10 tolerating 10 F. Unconfirmed reports of zone 7 hardiness.
Drought tolerant.

Trithrinax brasiliensis

A very fast growing Palm that can reach up to 30 x 10 feet with a trunk diameter up to 8 inches. Endangered in the wild; this Palm is native to Brazil and northern Argentina. The blue-green, fan-shaped fronds are up to 7 feet across with leaf segments up to 28 inches in length. The trunk is both very fibrous and very spiny. The sprays of small pale yellow flowers are followed by light green, grape-like fruits.
Becoming popular in cultivation this Palm is hardy zones 8b to 11 and very drought tolerant. It can survive on as little as 5 inches of rain in a year and actually prefers a dry climate.

Trithrinax campestris
A tall Palm, reaching a maximum size of 100 x 12 feet with a trunk diameter up to 20 inches, that is native to Argentina.
The fan-shaped leaves are very stiff.
This Palm tolerates as cold as 0 F if very temporary as well as desert heat.It is known to have survived in a walled garden in London, England.

Saw Palmetto

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Serenoa repens

This southeast U.S. Palmetto is the one and only member of the Serenoa family. It often forms large colonies of dense clumps , especially in coastal areas and pine forest. Growing up to 15 feet tall and 20 feet across with a trunk diameter up to 1.5 feet ( more often no trunk at all ) - the alltime tallest recorded Saw Palmetto is only 30 feet.
The 4 foot fan shaped leaves are born on very thorny stalks and are deeply divided into stiff segments. Depending on clone and soil conditions the foliage ranges from yellow-green to silvery-green to bluish.
The woolly flowerheads up to 24 inches long bear fragrant cream flowers.
The fruits are small blue-black berries. The berries have medicinal value in possibly reducing enlarged prostates. They may even increase the production male sex hormones.
Hardy from zone 7 to 12 this Palm can tolerate as cold as 12 and dies off at 3 F

* photo taken on Jan 3 2011 @ Deerfield Beach Arboretum, Florida

* photos of unknown internet source

Trachy Palms

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Trachycarpus

These long lived Palms grow best on moist, fertile, well drained soils sheltered from winds in sun or part shade. Dead fronds should be removed especially in drier climates where they can become a fire hazard. new plants grown from fresh seed sown in spring

* photo taken on April 11 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum

Trachycarpus fortunei ( Chusan Palm. Windmill Palm )

This cold hardy Palm is widely cultivated around the world. Native to central and eastern China and northern Burma; this Trachy grows to 33 feet in height in 20 years and up to 50 feet ( record size to 70 feet tall with crown to 16 feet across ) with a trunk up to a foot across. On ideal site this Palm can become fast growing - the most recorded being 32 inches in a year and 20 feet in height in 7 years. 50 feet in height with a trunk diameter of 1.3 feet has been recorded in 35 years.
Old leaf bases and dark brown fibers cover the trunk. The up to 7 foot wide dark green ( blue-green below ) fan shaped leaves are divided into numerous segments up to 34 inches long each. The small yellow flower clusters are followed by dark blue 0.5 inch fruits.
Living up to 100 years or more. Hardy from zone 8 to 10 - a seed source originating from Bulgaria is reported to be zone 7 hardy or even zone 6 if sheltered and has survived - 12 F with claims of - 20 F

* photo taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.

* video found on Youtube of Windmill Palms growing in British Columbia, Canada

Trachycarpus 'Khasa Hills'

A Trachycarpus martianus hybrid hardy north to zone 7 with easier falling dead leaves. Smooth white ringed stem.

Trachycarpus latisectus ( Windamere Palm )

Reaching up to 40 feet in height; this Palm as huge circular fan shaped leaves like Livistonia that naturally shed. Hardy from zone 6b - 10; this Trachy tolerates both heat as well as bitter cold and snow. Trunk growth of 12 inches and more reported for a year.

Trachycarpus martianus ( Himalayan Fan Palm )

From Burma and northern India; this slender trunked Palm is fast growing reaching up to 50 feet in height and 12 feet in crown width. Most of the trunk is smooth except for fibers just below the crown. The dark green large evenly divided fan shaped leaves are borne on thin stalks up to 40 inches long. The leaflets are up to 60 inches long. Black oblong fruits follow the drooping displays of yellow flowers. Hardy from zone 8 to 11

Trachycarpus nanus ( Yunnan Dwarf Palm )

This endangered Palm is native to the mountains of west China; has no trunk and reaches 6 feet in height at most. This extremely cold tolerant clump Palm with bluish leaves is hardy north to zone 6 ( possible 5 ). No damage at - 10 F

Trachycarpus oreophilis

Not very well known. This native of the mountains of northern Thailand is reportedly hardy north to zone 7

Trachycarpus princeps ( Saramati Palm )

Growing up to 10 feet tall and 7 feet across; this Palm has very silver-white fronds and is hardy north to zone 8 ( 7 for variety 'Naga Hills' )

Trachycarpus takil ( Kumane Palm )

Nearly extinct; from w. Himalayas where winters are cold and snowy this Palm is smaller but mostly otherwise similar to Trachycarpus fortunei. The difference is the fan shaped leaves being less divided and the trunk completely covered in dense brown fibers. The small white flowers in branched clusters are followed by purplish fruit.
Growing up to 45 feet in height; this Palm is fast growing up to 16 inches per year.
Hardy north to zone 7 and even unconfirmed reports of zone 6!

Trachycarpus wagneri

From Japan; this Palm grows up to 33 feet in height with a crown up to 8 feet across. It can grow up to 1 foot or more in height per year. Fronds are fan shaped and often no more than a foot across. Much more wind tolerant than Trachycarpus fortunei and can tolerate 0 F. Great for growing on the coast and has been grown in Iceland

Palmetto

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Sabal

Sabal Palms - all being hardy and adaptable; these Palms make their best growth on well drained deep fertile soil in full sun with adequate water while in growth. Resistant to most disease. Usually propagated from seed.

* photo of unknown internet source

Sabal bermudiana ( Bermuda Palmetto )

A very fast growing Palmetto Palm growing to 50 feet tall with a massive crown up to 30 feet across. Though it is native to only Bermuda; some trees have already grown huge. The 10 foot fronts are circular with 24 inch segments with a central section of 12 inches wide that is undivided. Foliage is very lush and blue-green. Tolorant of drought and limey soils - this Palm is hardy from zone 8 b to 11 and has been reported to grow in zone 7 as a perennial. This Palm defoliates at 6 F but may survive as low as - 3 F

Sabal 'Birmingham'

Large and fast growing hybrid. Reported to have survived - 11F with only 20 % leaf tip damage

Sabal blackburniana ( Hispanolian Palm )

With a clean gray trunk; this Palm grows to 85 feet tall with a crown to 20 feet wide and a diameter of 2 feet. The circular fronds are large( up to 9 feet across ), long stemmed and gray-green with an undivided central section. The leaflets are up to 40 inches long and 4 inches wide. This Palm is hardy from zone 9 to 10 but is known to survive to as low as 10 F

Sabal causiarum ( Puerto Rican Hat Palm )

Native to Hispanola and Puerto Rico; this palm is very fast growing with a gray trunk and reaches up to 60 feet tall; 20 feet wide and with a trunk diameter of up to 4 feet! It has a heavy crown of bright green fan shaped fronds; the leaves reaching up to 10 feet long. Each leaflet ( up to 60 of them ) can be up to 40 inches long and 5 inches wide. The white flowers are in sprays that can be up to 7 feet long and are followed by small black fruit. It is tolorant of dry conditions once established. Hardy from zone 8 to 12 and tolorates as low as 16 F

Sabal domingensis

A large fan Palm from Hispanola that can grow to 100 feet tall with a trunk diameter up to 2 feet. The trunk can grow as fast as 2 feet or more in height in a year. It also has a heavy gray trunk but a more open crown of gray-green leaves and pear shaped larger fruit than the similar S. causiarum. The flowers grow in sprays that are shorter than the 6 foot long leaves. Very tolorant of hot, dry inland regions and is hardy from zone 8 to 12 surviving as low as 4 F

Sabal etonia

A little known and rare shrub Palmetto reaching a maximum size of 8 x 10 ( rarely over 6 ) feet, that is hardy as far north as zone 7b

Sabal louisiana

A natural hybrid shrub Palmetto growing to 8 feet tall and wide and can survive temperatures as low as 0 F

Sabal mauritiformis

A graceful palm native over a wide area from Columbia & Venezuela and north to Mexico. It is fast growing with a slender gray trunk and grows to 82 feet in height and up to 25 feet in width. The crown is somewhat open with drooping fan shaped bright green leaves that are blue-green below. The leaves are up to 6 feet across and are divided into up to 60 leaflets which can reach up to 40 x 4 inches in size. The sprays of flowers are longer than the leaves and are followed by black berries.
Hardy from zone 9 and south. This Palm can survive as low as 20 F

Sabal minor ( Dwarf Palmetto )

Living up to 400 years in age; this Palm usually remains a shrubby clump however sometimes it does develop a trunk above ground and will reach up to 28 feet tall with a crown up to 16 feet wide. Largest trunk diameter on record is 1.5 feet. Slow growing; in North Carolina this Palm reaches up to 5 feet tall in 8 years. The leaves are blue-green, large and stiff splitting up into 20 to 30 narrow leaflets ( the center one being most prominent ).
The small creamy-white flowers are borne on erect sprays that emerge from the middle of the clump and is often taller than the foliage.
They are followed by rounded, glossy black berries.
It is hardy from zone 7 to 10 and is reported to tolorate as low as - 10 F.
It may survive zone 5 as a perennial though will certainly remain very small.
A clone from Oklahoma is the hardiest and there are reports of this palm surviving - 24 F in Kansas. Prefers a light, humus-rich, very well drained soil.
Propagation is from seed sown in spring.

The form from Texas hill country should be used in the sw. U.S.

* photos of unknown internet source

Sabal palmetto ( Cabbage Palm )

Native to the southeast U.S. from Louisiana to the coastal Carolinas and south; this Palm thrives unharmed by drought, fire, deer, salt and storms. It is usually slow growing but with ideal conditions can become fast growing and reach up to 6 feet in height in 1 1/2 years. With a bare trunk and leaves on top of long stalks; this Palm can reach up to 100 feet tall with a canopy up to 22 feet across and a trunk up to 2 feet in diameter. However usually much smaller where winters are cold. it has a large crown of blue-green leaves that are fan shaped and up to 8 feet long that are 2 /3 rds divided. The flower sprays are about the same length as the leaves and are made of small white flowers. The fruits are glossy and black. Hardy from zone 8 to 12 - a large Sabal palmetto has survived - 6 F in zone 7 Knoxville, Tennessee. It is reported to survive in Ocean City, Maryland but struggling.

* photos of unknown internet source

'Lisa'
* photo taken on Jan 3 2011 @ Deerfield Beach Arboretum, Florida

Sabal 'Riverside'

A hybrid originating in southern California that is hardy north to zone 8a

Sabal texana ( Texas Palmetto )

A very adaptable Palmetto which is native to Texas and northern Mexico. Reaching up to 70 feet tall; 36 feet in crown width with a thick trunk up to 3 feet across. A massive mature tree grows in cool wintered Dallas, Texas. This Palm has a crown of light green leaves with blades up to 6.6 feet long that are deeply divided with thread like filaments. The white flower sprays are equal in length to the leaves and are followed by large black berries.
Hardy from zone 7b to 11 and survives as low as 1 F.
Endangered; this Palm formerly grew wild on 40 000 acres in the Rio Grande Valley of south Texas. Only 32 acres are left. It is flood tolorant and very drought tolorant. This Palm is not prone to Lethal Yellowing Disease.

Sabal tamaulipas

A rare Palmetto native to extreme northwest Mexico and looks alot like Sabal minor but is much faster growing. It has no trunk and forms a clump with huge fan shape leaves up to 9 feet across.

Sabal uresana ( Sonoran Palmetto )

From northwest Mexico; this very beautiful Palm is fast growing and reaches up to 66 feet in height with a canopy up to 10 feet across. The 6 foot striking silvery fan shape leaves are deeply divided into very weeping segments. The flower sprays are about as long as the leaves and the fruits are brown. For warm temperate and subtropical regions; this Palm is very heat, cold and drought tolorant. Hardy from zone 8 to 12 ( possibly 7 ) it can tolorate 7 F with no damage. Adaptable and grows well in southeast U.S.

Date Palms

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Phoenix

A genus of 17 species of Palms including a few which are among the most widely grown in the world with exception of the Coconut Palm ( Cocos nucifera ).
Most species require full sun and well drained soil. Some species are very drought tolerant though will grow more vigorously on fertile soils with occasional deep waterings.
Old fronds should be pruned off for appearance but be careful...they often contain some very sharp hidden spines.
Propagation is typically from seed though suckering species can be grown from detached suckers as well.

* photos of unknown internet source

Phoenix canariensis ( Canary Island Date Palm )
A vigorous, thick-trunked, densely-crowned, enormous palm that is native to the Canary Islands though has since become one of the most popular landscape palms around the world. It makes a tough urban street tree. Some records include: 20 years - 53 ( rarely over 33 ) x 27 feet; largest on record - 100 x 50 feet with a trunk diameter of 5 feet. Trees exceeding 80 feet in height are rare. Long-lived for a Palm, the Canary Island Date Palm may live up to 160 years.
The heavy, very long, arching, feathery, pinnate fronds, up to 30 ( rarely over 20 ) feet in length, are composed of up to 400 linear leaflets, up to 24 inches in length. The foliage is deep green. The lower leaflets along the leaf rachis are often reduced to sharp spines.
The older fronds are drooping.
The flowers are borne on panicles up to 6.5 feet in length.
They are followed by heavy clusters, up to 7 feet in length, of orange or red berries, up to 1.5 inch in length.
The brown trunk is stout and the leaf bases remain attached.
Hardy zones 8 to 11 ( 19 F injures leaves and the plant is killed at 11 F ).
It requires full sun on well drained soil and is extremely drought tolerant as well as salt tolerant. Too much water or a high water table can encourage disease.
Fusarium Wilt and "Lethal Yellowing" disease can kill trees that are stressed.
Magnesium deficiency can also cause foliage yellowing.
The Canary Island Date Palm thrives in Mediterranean regions around the world including Chile, far southern Europe and California...it may even be grown on very sheltered sites in parts of the Pacific Northwest including Salt Spring Island ).
Extremely heat tolerant, this Palm thrives in Phoenix, Arizona but can also tolerate cooler climates and is known to grow in Cornwall and the Channel Islands in England though with less vigor remaining as small trees. The Canary Island Date Palm also grows along the Gulf Coast and up to east coast to as far north as Charleston, South Carolina.
Easy to grow from seed which germinated rapidly with heat. Many Florida nurseries sell it in container.

* photos taken in Chile during Jan 2007

* photos of unknown internet source

Phoenix dactylifera ( Date Palm )
A moderate growing, graceful, very large Palm that is native to southwestern Asia and northern Africa. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 3 feet ( usually much slower ); 15 years - 20 feet; largest on record - 133 ( rarely over 100 ) x 40 feet with a trunk diameter of 5 feet. It is somewhat similar in appearance to the Canary Island Date Palm though not as massively heavy-set in stature.
The Date Palm is very long-lived and can live as long as 300 years.
It is commercially grown in warm dry regions around the world ( especially the Middle East ) and has been cultivated for over 5000 years.
The Date Palm makes a spectacular street tree. This Palm will sometimes sucker at the base.
The pinnate fronds, up to 23 feet in length, composed of leaflets up to 18 x 1 inches. The foliage is gray-green.
The lower leaflets along the leaf rachis are often reduced to sharp spines.
The white flowers are borne on panicles up to 4 feet in length.
They are followed by sweet-tasting, yellow to red, edible fruits up to 3.5 inches in length. A 13 year old Date Palm may produce up to 175 pounds of fruit in a year and the largest crop recorded on a Date Palm was 400 pounds in a year.
Most of the commerically grown Date Palm is in the Middle East...the fruits are dried then shipped all over the world. The nutritious dried fruits are among the healthiest snacks around. They can also be used in tarts, pastries and other desserts.
Hardy zones 9 to 12 ( tolerating as low as 10 F and one was even reported to have survived 4 F in California ). Very drought tolerant and thrives on both acidic and alkaline soils. Tolerant of windy conditions and salt spray, it is well adapted to shoreline environments. While it can be grown in more humid climates such as Florida, it requires a hot dry climate for any significant fruit production or to be grown commercially. Insect pests are rare and it is only slightly prone to fusarium wilt and lethal yellowing disease.

* photos of unknown internet source

* videos found on Youtube

Phoenix hanceana ( Formosan Date Palm )
A slender-trunked, small palm that is native to southeast Asia including Taiwan. Some records include: largest on record - 30 x 14 feet with a trunk diameter of 1 foot.
The trunk is stout and the leaf bases remain attached.
The arching, pinnate fronds, up to 7 x 3.3 feet in size, are composed of up to 98 leaflets, up to 20 x 1.5 inches in size.
The older fronds are drooping.
The yellow flowers are borne on sprays that are
followed by red berries that eventually ripen to black.
Hardy zones 10 to 12.

subsp phillipinensis ( Phillippine Date Palm )
Has fronds that are shorter and olive-green in color.
It is found in the wild in the Phillipines where it is threatened with extinction.

Phoenix loueiroi
A small, clumping palm that is native from India to southern China.
Some records include: largest on record - 25 x 25 feet with a trunk diameter of 3 feet ( combination of all trunks ).
The trunk is stout and the leaf bases remain attached.
The stiff pinnate fronds, up to 10 feet in length, are deep green.
The older fronds are drooping.
The creamy flowers are borne on panicles and are
followed by deep purple, oblong berries.
Hardy zones 9 to 12 ( tolerating 21 F or even as low as 16 F with foliage burn ).
Drought tolerant.

Phoenix madagascarii ( Madagascar Date Palm )
A Palm that is massive though not very tall that is native to mountains of Madagascar. It can reach a maximum size of 40 x 40 feet with a trunk diameter of 2 feet.
Hardy zones 10 ( est ). It requires a cool tropical highland climate to thrive. Such climates are found in parts of Mexico, Central America and northwest South America but do not exist in the U.S. Florida is too hot during the summer for the Madagascar Date Palm to succeed.

Phoenix padulosa ( Mangrove Date Palm )
A robust, densely-crowned, large palm that is native to marshy habitats in the Malay Peninsula in far southeast Asia. Some records include: 20 years - 33 x 27 feet; largest on record - 35 x 25 feet with a trunk diameter of 6 inches.
The trunk is stout and the leaf bases remain attached.
The pinnate fronds, up to 12 x 1.5 feet in length, are composed of leaflets up to 12 inches in length. The foliage is glossy very deep green.
Hardy zones 9b to 12 requiring moist to wet conditions.

Phoenix reclinata ( Senegal Date Palm )
A very fast growing, handsome, medium-sized to large, clumping palm that is native from tropical to southern Africa. The clump consists of many slender trunks, often exceeding 20. Some records include: largest on record - 60 x 60 feet with a collective trunk diameter of 5 feet ( all trunks combined - each individual trunk is usually about 6 inches thick ). It is commonly seen in warmer parts of the U.S. especially in central Florida including Walt Disney World. The Senegal Date Palm is also cultivated in Italy and far southern France.
The trunks are covered with the reddish-brown fibery remains of the old leafstalks.
The graceful, arching, pinnate fronds, up to 15 ( rarely over 12 ) feet in length, are composed of leaflets up to 18 inches in length. The leaflets are often twisted. The foliage is glossy deep green.
The flowers are borne on panicles and are followed by small, oval, orangish-red to black berries, up to 1 inch in length.
Hardy zones 9 to 11 ( tolerating as low as 18 F ) in full sun or partial shade thriving in sandy soil of any PH. It even thrives in parts of northern California. Very tolerant of drought, wind, salt as well as swampy conditions.
Insect pests are rare and the only disease worthy of mention is lethal yellowing though occuring rarely. They take 5 years to produce a trunk when grown from seed. It is recommended to grow them in a container then plant out once about 4 feet in height.

Phoenix roebelinii ( Roebelinii Date Palm )
Also called Pygmy Date Palm. A very attractive, slow growing, dense-crowned, "miniature" Date-Palm that is native to Laos though frequently used in landscaping throughout much of the worlds tropics and subtropics. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 2 ( typically less than 1 ) feet; largest on record - 28 x 10 feet with a trunk diameter of 6 inches ( through usually more shrubby, rarely exceeding 10 feet in height ). Trees over 20 feet in height are extremely rare. Moderately long-lived, the Roebelinii can live over 60 years.
The trunk is slender the leaf bases remain attached.
The gracefully-arching, feathery, pinnate fronds, up to 7 ( rarely over 5 ) feet x 16 inches, are composed of leaflets, up to 16 x 0.5 inches. The foliage is luxuriant, glossy deep green. The lower leaflets are often reduced to sharp 2 inch spines.
The creamy-white flowers are borne on panicles up to 6.5 feet in length.
They are followed by edible, small, black, oval fruits, up to 0.5 inches in length.
Hardy zones 9 to 12 ( tolerating as low as 15 F ) in full sun to moderate shade on moist, well drained soil ( PH below 7 ) though moderately drought tolerant. The foliage will turn brown at 26 F but the plant will rapidly recover the following spring.
Fertilize with lots of potassium to keep the foliage luxuriant green.
It is not very salt tolerant but is otherwise very easy to grow.
The Pygmy Date Palm may sometimes be prone to scale but is otherwise pest free.
It is easy to grow from seed which germinates as quickly as 6 weeks.

'Clusterae'
A form with a branching trunk.

'Reasoneri' ( Clustering Pygmy Date Palm )
A real clumping suckering Palm, reaching a maximum size of 12 x 15 feet.

Phoenix rubra ( Mauritis Date Palm )
A medium-sized tropical Palm reaching a maximum height of 60 feet.
Hardy zones 10 to 12 ( tolerating as low as 30 F ).

Phoenix rupicola ( Cliff Date Palm )
A fast growing, slender solitary-trunked, medium-sized palm that is native to India.
Some records include: largest on record - 50 x 24 feet with a trunk diameter of 2 feet ( rarely over 30 feet with a diameter of 10 inches ). It looks like an oversized Phoenix roebelinii.
The trunk is stout and the leaf bases remain attached.
The arching, pinnate fronds, up to 15 feet in length, are composed of leaflets up to 24 x 1 ( rarely over 18 ) inches. The foliage is bright green.
The yellow flower panicles are borne on panicles and
are followed by glossy yellow to red berries.
Hardy zones 9 to 12 ( tolerating as low as 15 F ).

Phoenix sylvestris ( Silver Date Palm )
A very fast growing, thick, solitary-trunked, medium-sized palm that is native to Pakistan and India.
Some records include: largest on record - 70 x 35 feet with a trunk diameter of 2 feet ( rarely over 40 x 25 feet with a trunk diameter of 1 foot ). It looks similar to Phoenix canariensis except for having shimmering silvery-blue fronds.
The pinnate fronds, up to 17 ( rarely over 10 ) feet in length, are composed of leaflets up to 24 x 1 inches. The foliage is silvery-blue.
The older fronds are drooping.
The white flowers are borne on sprays and are followed by orangish-yellow berries.
Hardy zones 8b to 12 ( tolerating as low as 15 F ) in full sun on well drained soil that is acidic to slightly alkaline. It is sometimes grown on the Gulf Coast in the U.S. Very drought tolerant and moderately salt tolerant.
Insect pests are rare but fusarium wilt and lethal yellowing disease sometimes occurs.

Phoenix theophrasti ( Cretan Date Palm )
A robust, densely-crowned, large palm that is native to Greece, Turkey and Crete where it is threatened with extinction. Some records include: largest on record - 53 x 20 feet with a trunk diameter of 3 feet ( rarely exceeding 30 x 10 feet ).
It is similar to Phoenix dactylifera but is much more spiny with every leaflet ending in a sharp spine.
The slender trunk is ringed with the bases of old fronds.
The stiff, arching, pinnate fronds, up to 17 feet in length, are composed of leaflets up to 20 inches in length. The foliage is shimmering silvery-gray to silvery-blue.
The yellow flowers are borne on sprays and are followed by dark brown fruits, up to 0.8 inches in lenght, that are not edible.
Hardy zones 8 to 11 ( tolerating as low as 7 F ) in full sun to partial shade on moderately moist sites. The Cretan Date Palm thrives in Mediterranean regions around the world though rarely seen. Propagation is from seed which germinates easily.

Mazari Palm

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Nannorrhops ritchiana

Extremely rare; from mountainous Afghanistan, India & Pakistan; this is the Worlds Hardiest Palm and is known to tolerate -14 F in dry climates, as well as heat up to 125F. Hardy north to zone 6 b where winters aren't excessively wet.
It is fast growing though rarely growing over 15 feet, however it has been known to approach 30 x 25 feet . The blue-green, fan shaped fronds reach up to 4.5 feet across. Old leaf bases persist and should be removed.
The white flowers are borne on branched spikes reaching above the crown that reach up to 5 feet in length.
The fruits are orange brown.
Hardy zones 7 to 11

Coccothrinax

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Coccothrinax

* page under construction....completed Jan 10 2012

Coccothrinax barbadensis

A fast growing Palm hardy north to zone 8 and reaching up to 50 feet in height and 15 feet in crown width.

Meditteranean Fan Palm

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Chamaerops humilis

The one and only species in the Chamaerops family; this Palm is native to the Meditteranean Region of Europe and North Africa. It's a survivor of the evergreen laurel forest that covered much of Europe before getting wiped out by the ice ages of the last few million years.
Usually shrubby in the wild they may become trees in cultivation however still usually multi stemmed. Such trunks may reach up to 33 feet in height with a diameter of 0.7 feet. The largest of this species was 40 feet in height recorded in Spain in 1836. Clumps of Fan Palm may be up to 20 feet across. Moderate growing; the leaves are fan shaped and up to 3 feet across and on leafstalks up to 52 inches long. Leaves are grayish-green though some very attractive blue forms exist. Dull orange small date like fruits follow the dull orange date like fruits. They grow best in well drained soil in full sun. Old dried fronds can be a fire hazard and should be cut off however not to close as to cause damage to the main trunk.
Hardy from zone 7 to 10 it is known to tolerate 0 F on sheltered sites. One tree is reported to survive - 7 F though just barely.

* photo taken on Jan 3 2011 @ Deerfield Beach Arboretum, Florida

Chamaedorea

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Chamaedorea

* page under construction...completed Jan 8 2012

Chamaedorea costarica ( Costa Rican Bamboo Palm )
A clumping palm, spreading rapidly by short underground stolons to form a nice clump.
Some records include: 14 years - 12 feet.
Tolerates as low as 27 F, a colder winter can kill it to the roots but it will reach up to 6 feet by the next summer with a forest of new shoots.

Chamaedorea microspadix

From southeastern Mexico; this Palm makes a clump of Bamboo like stems. It is very fast growing and the dense clumps reach up to 12 feet tall and 10 feet across. The up to 40 inch fronds are pinnate with wide dark but non shiny green leaflets up to 10 x 2 inches. After blooming it can produce scarlet berries. Growing well in sun or shade and tolorate light snow. This Palm is hardy zones 8 to 10 ( unconfirmed reports of 7 in very sheltered sites ). Is leaf hardy to 15 F

Chamaedorea radicaulis

A shrub Palm reaching 7 feet tall and 6 feet wide. leaves are pinnate & up to 3 feet long with dark green leaflets up to 13 x 1 inches. hardy zones 8b - 11; it looses its leaves at 12 F but is known to survive as low as 0 F. Also drought tolorant

Butia

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Butia

* page under construction...completed Jan 6 2012

Butia capitata ( Jelly Palm )
A slow growing, hardy Palm, reaching around 25 feet, that is native to Uruguay and eastern Brazil.
Some records include: 20 years - 17 x 17 feet; largest on record - 40 x 20 feet with a trunk diameter of 3 feet. This Palm can make up to 10 inches in trunk growth a year though as much as 3 feet has been reported though extremely rare. In appearance it looks somewhat like a shorter Phoenix canariensis.
The dead frond bases remain attrached to the thick trunk.
The graceful, arching to recurved, feathery, pinnate leaves are blue-green and up to 6 ( 17 ) feet in length. The leaflets are up to 30 x 1 inches.
The short flowers clusters, up to 6 feet in length, are yellow or pinkish.
The flowers are followed by yellow to red, sweet, edible berries up to an inch that are borne in large, heavy clusters. The fruit taste somewhat like pineapple.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 ( zone 7 on very protected sites, tolerating as low as 0 F ) on a hot sunny site though also tolerant of partial shade.
Very vigorous in Cornwall, England and also grows in coastal Oregon and on protected sites in Washington, DC and Vancouver BC. It has been reported to survive -10 F with trunk wrapping. Unfortunately, the Pindo Palm will defoliate at temperatures less than 20 F. Very tolerant of heat and drought; too much water or high water table can cause disease. It is in fact the most drought tolerant of all the pinnate frond palms.
The Pindo Palm is also moderately salt tolerant and is also very easy to grow in large planters or containers outdoors.
It is generally sold in nurseries as a containerized plant.

* photo of unknown internet source

Butia eriospatha

Slow growing Palm making up to 13 inches trunk growth in a year. This Palm is hardy north to zone 7 and can tolorate 0 F

Butia frondosa
Reaches up to 40 feet.

Butia paraguayensis

Growing to 12 feet tall and 8 feet wide; this Palm is hardy to 5 F

Butia yatay
A medium-sized Palm that is native to Argentina. Some records include: largest on record - 70 feet with a trunk diameter of 1.5 feet.
The pinnate fronds are up to 7 feet in length.
Hardy zones 8 to 10 ( tolerating as low as 10 F ).

Hesper Palm

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Brahea

A genus of 12 species of Fan Palms that are closely related to the Washingtonias.
Most are very attractive and make great landscaping plants. They are entirely native to Mexico and adjacent parts of Central America.
The Hesper Palms require little maintenance other than the typical pruning off of old spent leaves though it is recommended to leave the leaf bases to protect the trunk.
If the old leaves are not removed.
All species are very heat and drought tolerant as well as being tolerant of salt.
Propagation is easily achieved from sowing the seeds which usually germinate in 2 months or less. They are very slow growing at first, increasing in rate once the trunk has formed.

Brahea aculeata

This fast growing Palm is hardy to 19 F. Its fan shaped leaves reach up to 3 feet across. Is extrememly drought tolerant.

* photo of unknown internet source

Brahea armata ( Blue Hesper Palm )
A very attractive, slow to moderate growing, spreading-crowned, medium-sized to large Palm, that is native to the Baja Peninsula in Mexico. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 2 feet; 20 years - 20 x 20 feet; largest on record - 100 x 25 feet with a trunk diameter of 3 ( rarely over 1.5 ) feet. Very long-lived; the Blue Hesper Palm can survive for up to 300 years.
The huge, fan-shaped leaves, up to 9 ( rarely over 6 ) feet across, are shimmering silvery-blue. The leaflets are up to 42 x 2 inches in size.
The entire leaf including the stalk can reach up to 15 feet in length.
They grayish-white flowers are borne on showy, arching plumes, up to 17 feet in length.
They are followed by brown fruits.
The thick trunk is rough.
Hardy zones 9 to 10 ( defoliates at 12 F, tolerates 10 F and is killed at 5 F ) in full sun on moderately moist, sandy, well drained soil. Very drought tolerant.
It has been grown in southwestern Utah.

Brahea brandeegeei ( Brandeegee Palm )
Also called San Jose Hesper Palm. A fast growing, compact-crowned, tall Palm, reaching a maximum size of 150 x 15 feet, that is native to canyons in San Jose del Cabo state in Mexico and the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula.
Some records include: fastest growth rate - 2 feet.
The thick trunk is rough.
The numerous, fan-shaped leaves, up to 6 ( rarely over 5 ) feet across, are bright green.
The leaflets gracefully droop at the tips.
They grayish-white flowers are borne on arching plumes, up to 17 feet in length.
They are followed by brown fruits.
The slender trunk is brown.
Hardy zones 8 to 12 in full sun on well drained soil. It is the only species that is tolerant of humid climates and is reliable in Florida.

Brahea decumbens ( Sierra Madre Palm )
A very ornamental dwarf Palm, reaching a maximum size of 6.5 x 8 feet.
The fan-shaped fronds are very glaucous to nearly white.
Hardy zones 8b to 11 in full sun. Extremely drought and wind tolerant.

Brahea dulcis ( Rock Palm )
A slow growing, small, often suckering Palm, that is native from northeast to southern Mexico.
Some records include: 10 years - 10 x 6 feet; largest on record - 25 x 8 feet with a trunk diameter of 8 inches.
The thick trunk is rough.
The fan-shaped leaves, up to 5 feet across, are silvery-blue. The leaflets are up to 5 feet in length.
The bright green to blue-green foliage is striking against darker foliage trees.
The stiff, short leafstalks are spiny.
They creamy-white flowers are borne on large sprays.
They are followed by sweet-tasting, fleshy, yellow fruits.
The trunk is narrow.
Hardy zones 8 to 12 ( generally only tolerating 25 F though clones from northeastern Mexico are hardier ). Preferring semi-arid to arid climates; it is drought tolerant and hates high humidity.

Brahea edulis ( Guadalupe Fan Palm )
A moderate growing, robust, dense, small to medium-sized Palm with a tiny natural range of Guadalupe Island which is in the Pacific Ocean southwest of San Diego.
Some records include: fastest growth rate - 2 feet; largest on record - 45 x 20 feet with a trunk diameter of 2 feet.
The heavy, fan-shaped leaves, up to 7 ( rarely over 6 ) feet across, are bright green.
The up to 80 or more leaflets are up to 80 x 3 ( rarely over 60 ) inches in size.
The leafstalks are covered in woolly brown hairs.
Unlike some other species; the old fronds naturally fall cleanly from the trunk making maintenance easier.
They grayish-white flowers are borne on arching plumes, up to 17 feet in length.
They are followed by abundant, brown to black, wrinkled, prune-like, tasty, edible fruits.
The thick trunk is rough.
Hardy zones 9 to 12 ( tolerating 14 F ).

* photos of unknown internet source

Brahea moorei ( Dwarf Rock Palm )
A very attractive, small Palm originating from an underground trunk, reaches a maximum size of 4 x 6 feet, and is native to mountains of northeast Mexico.
Some records include: 10 years - 3 x 4 feet.
The fan-shaped fronds are glossy deep green above, white beneath.
Hardy zones 8b to 11 ( tolerating as low as 14 F possibly 10 F ) in partial to full shade on very well drained soil. It hates wet conditions but is very easy to grow in most arid climates.

Brahea nitida

A moderately-fast growing Palm reaching a maximum size of 40 x 12 ( rarely over 30 ) feet.
The fan-shaped fronds are glossy green above, bluish-white beneath.
The leaves are entire or undivided on trees less than 10 years of age.
The leafstalks do not have spines.
Hardy north to zone 9 ( tolerating 20 F with unconfirmed reports of 10 ). It is drought tolerant and actually hates high humidity.

Paurotis Palm

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Acoelorrhaphe

A genus of a single species of Palm that is closely related to the Saw Palmetto ( Serenoa ) but taller.

Acoelorrhaphe wrightii ( Paurotis Palm )
A moderate growing, dense, clumping, medium-sized Palm, reaching a maximum size of 50 x 40 ( rarely over 20 x 20 ) feet with trunk diameters of 6 inches, that is native to far southern Florida, the Caribbean and Central America. Native to the Florida Everglades; this ornamental Palm will grow much further north.
The graceful, fan-shaped fronds, up to 2 x 3.3 feet in size, are blue-green.
The very small,creamy-white flowers are borne on branched panicles, up to 3 feet in length.
They are followed by abundant, 0.2 inch fruits, that are orangish-brown later ripening to black.
The trunk is covered in fibers.
Hardy zones 9 to 12 ( tolerating 18 F - reports of 3 F with near total defoliation )
in full sun thriving on consistently moist, well drained to swampy soils. The Paurotis Palm requires hot humid summers. In the wild it is often found in both brackish and freshwater swamps. It is easy to grow in subtropical and tropical regions around the world. The use of high nitrogen fertilizers during the active growth season will increase the growth rate.
Insects and disease rarely attack the Paurotis Palm.
Propagation is easily achieved by sowing the fresh seed.

* photos taken on Jan 3 2010 @ Deerfield Beach Arboretum, Florida

Zauschneria

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Zauschneria

Zauschneria arizonica
A moderate growing shrubby perennial, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, that is native to Arizona.
It is late to green up during spring so it can be mixed with early spring bulbs such as Crocus.
The showy, orange-red, tubular flowers are borne mid summer to early autumn.
The flowers attract hummingbirds.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun on light, well drained soil. Tolerant of extreme heat as well as drought once established, thriving even in parking lot islands and parking lot islands. Water well for first 2 years, including during winter if excessively dry. Deer resistant. North of zone 8, plant during spring only since it is slow to establish.

Zauschneria californica ( California Fuschia )
A fast growing, clumping, deciduous to evergreen ( very mild climates ), shrubby perennial, reaching a maximum size of 3 x 6 feet, that is native to southwestern U.S. ( from Oregon to Wyoming; south to California to New Mexico ).
The narrow leaves are up to 2 inches in lenth, The hairy foliage is gray-green.
The scarlet-red, funnel-shaped flowers, up to 2 inches in length, are borne mid summer to late autumn. The flowers attract hummingbirds.
The stems are slender and arching.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 on a warm sunny location with light, very well drained soil. Drought tolerant and deer resistant. Does not like excessive fertilizer. In colder parts of its range it acts more like a perennial and should be cut to near groundlevel during early spring. It prefers dry conditions during winter.

'Dublin'
One of the more winter hardy cultivars. The foliage is green, otherwise similar.

'Solidarity Pink'
Red-pink flowers.

subsp 'latifolium'
Broader greener leaves.
Hardy zones 5 to 9.

'Wayne's Select'
Reaches up to 1 x 4 feet, bearing intense scarlet-red flowers from early autumn until autumn frosts.
The very attractive foliage is silvery-gray.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. Thrives in the east, even in Michigan if planted on sand with gravel mulch on a protected site.

Zauschneria cana
Very similar to Z. californica except for having very narrow, gray foliage.

Zauschneria garrettii
The flowers attract hummingbirds.

'Mountain Flame'
Reaches up to 1.5 x 2 feet, with intense orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers borne mid summer to early autumn.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 ( reports of 4 ) in partial shade on humus-rich, well drained soil.
Deer resistant and very drought tolerant. Deer resistant.

'Orange Carpet'
A low, mat-forming shrubby perennial, reaching up to 6 inches x 2 feet, that can be used for groundcover.
The foliage is bright green. In mild climates it becomes an evergreen.
The profuse, bright orange flowers are borne mid summer and well into autumn.
The flowers attract hummingbirds.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in partial shade on humus-rich, well drained soil.
Deer resistant and very drought tolerant.

Zauschneria septentrionalis ( Humboldt County Fuchsia )
A semi-evergreen, mat-forming perennial, reaching up to 1 x 3 feet, that is native to California.
The lance-shaped to oval leaves are gray.
The scarlet-red, tubular flowers are borne late summer into autumn.
Hardy zones 7 to 10

'Select Mattole'
Silvery foliage.

Zizia

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Zizia
A small genus of perennials that are distant relatives of Parsley.

Zizia aptera ( Heartleaf Alexander )
A perennial, reaching up to 3 ( rarely over 1.5 ) feet, that is native to North America ( from British Columbia to New York; south to Arkansas to Florida.
The toothed leaves are glossy deep green.
The golden-yellow flowers are borne on panicles during spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist, well drained soil.

Zizia aurea ( Golden Alexander )
A perennial, reaching up to 3.5 x 3 feet, that is native to moist prairies, woodlands and swamps in North America ( from Saskatchewan to New Brunswick; south to Texas to Florida.
The bipinnate leaves are composed of toothed, ovate leaflets, up to 2 inches in length. The foliage is rich deep green.
The golden-yellow flowers are borne in flat heads, up to 2 inches across, during mid spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun or partial shade on moist, well drained soil.
Tolerant of sand and clay.

Waldstenia

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Waldstenia ( Barren Strawberry )
A small genus of 6 species of groundcover perennials for partial to full shade.
They are distant relatives of the Roses.

Waldsteinia fragaroides ( Barren Strawberry )
A low, groundcover perennial, reaching up to 1 ( rarely over 0.5 ) x 3.3+ feet, that is native to eastern North America ( from Minnesota to New Brunswick; south to Missouri to Tennessee & Georgia ).
The trifoliate, compound leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are composed of 3 toothed, pointed-oval leaflets, up to 3 inches in length. The somewhat hairy foliage is glossy deep green. The foliage is somewhat similar to that of the groundcover potentillas or strawberries.
The yellow, 5-petalled flowers, up to 0.7 inches across, are borne on sprays late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on moist, well drained soil.
Drought tolerant. This groundcover does tolerate moderate foot traffic.

Waldsteinia geoides ( Golden Strawberry )
A perennial, reaching up to 10 inches x 1.5 feet, forming compact foliage mounds.
It is non-stoloniferous and is great for edging.
The deeply-toothed, 3 lobed, palmate Maple-like leaves are luxuriant deep green.
The profuse, bright yellow, 5-petalled flowers are borne mid spring to early summer.

Waldsteinia ternata ( Siberian Waldsteinia )
A very fast growing to invasive, semi-evergreen, carpet-forming, groundcover perennial, reaching up to 1 ( rarely over 0.5 ) x 3.3 + feet, that is native from central Europe, eastwards through Siberia into China and Japan.
The trifoliate, compound leaves, up to 5 inches in length, are composed of 3 toothed, pointed-oval leaflets, up to 3 inches in length. The somewhat hairy foliage is glossy deep green. The foliage is somewhat similar to that of the groundcover potentillas or strawberries.
The yellow, 5-petalled flowers, up to 0.7 inches across, are borne on sprays mid to late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on moist, well drained soil.
Drought tolerant. This groundcover does tolerate moderate foot traffic.

Globe Flowers

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Trollius
A genus of highly ornamental perennials that are part of the larger Buttercup ( Ranunculacaeae ) family

Trollius altaicus
A perennial native to swampy soils from eastern Europe to western Russia.

* photos of unknown internet source

Trollius asiaticus ( Asian Globeflower )
A perennial, reaching up to 32 inches x 2 foot, that is native from Turkey to Siberia.
The orangish-yellow, buttercup flowers, up to 2 inches across, are borne late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on moist soil. Clay tolerant.

* photo of unknown internet source

Trollius chinensis ( Chinese Globeflower )
Also called Trollius ledebourii. A fast growing, clumping perennial, reaching up to 4 x 4 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to eastern Siberia and northern China.
The finely-toothed, deeply-lobed leaves, up to 7 inches in length, are bright green.
The golden-yellow, bowl-shaped flowers, up to 4 inches across, are borne during late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on consistantly moist to wet soil. Propagation is from division or seed.

'Golden Queen'
Deep orangish-yellow flowers.

'Imperial Orange'
Deep orangish-yellow flowers.

Trollius x cultorum
Also called Trollius x hybrida
A group of perennials, reaching a maximum size of 3.3 x 3.5 feet.
The leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are finely divided into 5 or 6 toothed leaflets. The foliage is deep green.
The yellow to orange flowers, up to 2.4 inches across, are borne during late spring to early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on moist, well drained soil.
Plants can be sheared back during mid summer.

* photos of unknown internet source

'Canary Yellow'
Pale yellow flowers.

'Cheddar'
Creamy-white to pale yellow flowers.

'Etna'
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 5 feet, with deep orange globe flowers.

* photo of unknown internet source

'Fireglobe'
Intense orange-yellow flowers.

'Goldquelle'
Deep yellow, very large flowers.

'Lemon Queen'
Vigorous, reaching up to 3 x 2 feet, with pale yellow, double flowers.

'Orange Crest'
Reaches up to 3 feet, with deep orange flowers.

'Orange Princess'
Reaches up to 3 feet, with orange-yellow flowers.

'Salamander'
Vigorous with deep orange flowers.

Trollius europaeus ( European Globeflower )
A perennia, reaching up to 3 x 3.5 feet, that is native from western Europe to Russia.
The leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are finely-diveded into 5 leaflets.
The large, pale-yellow globe-flowers, up to 2 inches across, are borne during late spring.
Hardy zones 3 to 8

Trollius laxus ( American Globeflower )

* photo of unknown internet source

Trollius pumilus ( Dwarf Globeflower )
A small perennial, reaching up to 1 x 1 feet. A great plant for the rock garden, it can also be used for edging.
The showy, flat, golden-yellow flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 3 to 6 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.

Trollius yunnanensis
An upright perennial, reaching a maximum size of 32 x 16 inches, that is native to southwestern China.
The leaves are up to 4 inches in length.
The single, bright yellow flowers, up to 2 inches across, are borne during early summer.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade on fertile, moist, well drained soil.

Verbesina

2011-12-30T23:24:00.008-05:00

Verbesina

Verbesina alternifolia ( Wingstem )
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 9 ( rarely over 7 ) feet, that is native to North America ( Iowa to southern Ontario to southeast New York State; south to Kansas to Louisiana to Georgia.
The leaves are up to 12 x 2 inches.
The yellow, daisy-like flowers, up to 2 inches across, are borne mid summer to mid autumn.
The flower stalks are winged. The seeds are loved by birds.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.

Ladies Tresses

2011-12-30T23:23:00.006-05:00

Spiranthes

Spiranthes cernua 'Chadd's Ford' ( Nodding Ladies Tresses )
A fast growing, upright, clumping perennial, reaching up to 2.5 feet in height, that is native to eastern Canada; south to Texas to southern Florida.
The fragrant, white ( yellow centered ) flowers are borne in spires during early to mid autumn.
Hardy zone 4 to 9 ( possibly 3 ) in partial to deep shade on moist, well drained soil. Easy to grow.

'Chadd's Ford'
More fragrant, larger flowers.

Stanleya

2011-12-30T23:23:00.004-05:00

Stanleya

Stanleya pinnata
A very showy perennial, reaching up to 3 feet x 16 inches, that is native to the western U.S. Slow to establish, it may take up to 3 years or more to be in its full glory.
The bright yellow flowers are borne on tall spikes during late spring.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun on rocky or sandy well drained soil that is mulched in gravel. Rabbit but not deer resistant. Very drought tolerant.