Use varieties such as æParkÆs Candelabra BranchingÆ and æLeeÆ in small gardens. An All-America Selection, æBurgundy,Æ has red pods which turn green when cooked.
Many rich pink flowers with white centres bloom on these compact plants. The variety æOriental RedÆ has deep red flowers with white centres.
Not for the horticulturally timid, its brilliantly coloured ruffled leaves are ochre-copper, edged in creamy yellow. Even more striking in masses. Thrives in full sun.
This is a hardier and thornier version of A. mollis. The elegant white flower spikes are tinged with purple and narrower than other Acanthus.
One of finest small maples, its large, deeply dissected and toothed leaves turn brilliant crimson in autumn. In spring, reddish purple flowers appear before the leaves.
One of finest small maples, its large, deeply dissected and toothed leaves turn brilliant crimson in autumn. In spring, reddish purple flowers appear before the leaves.
This shrub's unusual, small, bluish green leaves are irregularly marked with creamy white. New spring growth is tinged with pink. In autumn, the white accents on its deep red leaves turn magenta.
This shrub's unusual, small, bluish green leaves are irregularly marked with creamy white. New spring growth is tinged with pink. In autumn, the white accents on its deep red leaves turn magenta.
This popular Japanese Maple with purple, deeply cut leaves is an excellent accent or specimen tree. In autumn, this lacy, low, mounding shrub turns fiery red. Plant by a stream or pond.
This popular Japanese Maple with purple, deeply cut leaves is an excellent accent or specimen tree. In autumn, this lacy, low, mounding shrub turns fiery red. Plant by a stream or pond.
The deep pink flower heads (unusual for a yarrow) are bigger and stronger-stemmed than A. millefolium. Blooms all summer.
Given extra care while first taking root, this plant will thrive in the toughest hot and dry spots. Its dark crimson flowers are richer than Cerise Queen's.
The lilac flowers contrast the yellows and oranges of most yarrows.
The 3-ft-high leaf blades, tallest of the species, make a striking accent with low-growing plants like March Marigold, especially along the bank of a pond or brook.
This hybrid forms medium-sized rosettes up to 7.5cm across, streaked with dark green.
This dwarf evergreen has dense clusters of deep blue flowers on 30 to 46cm tall stems. Blooms from mid summer to early autumn.
Aromatic foliage adds appeal to the purple flowers. Plant with other drought-tolerant perennials and shrubs such as Santolina, Kniphofia and Euryops. Like 'Firebird,' its bushy base stems become woody over time.
Where other Agastaches bloom in cool shades- purple, rose, blue and green- Firebird stands out with coppery red-orange flowers. The base stems become woody over time.
The narrow, green leaves of this ball-like rosette are edged with fine, white threads that glow when backlit. Rarely flowers but when it does bloom, it produces a 1.8m tall spike with greenish flowers that turn maroon with age.
The narrow, green leaves of this ball-like rosette are edged with fine, white threads that glow when backlit. Rarely flowers but when it does bloom, it produces a 1.8m tall spike with greenish flowers that turn maroon with age.
One of the best late-, blue-blooming perennials, it looks like a tall Annual Ageratum. White-flowered æAlbaÆ is also available. Can be invasive. Leaf miner is a problem. Plant with Asters and Chrysanthemums.
These dwarfs all flower extra early with uniform growth. The 15cm tall æHawaii RoyalÆ blooms in rosy-purple; 20 to 30cm tall æHawaii BlueÆ in violet blue; and 15cm tall æHawaii WhiteÆ in pure white.
This upright-growing dwarf variety has 7.5 to 10cm clusters of bluish-mauve flowers.
One of the tallest Ajugas, it reaches 30cm in height. Its large, purple leaves and erect spikes of blue flowers make it an especially colourful choice.
Its greyish green leaves are edged and mottled with creamy white or yellow. Tolerates deep shade.
Individual blossoms are single, ruffled, frilled or double blooms in nearly every shade of white, pink, yellow and lavender. Blooms in summer and early autumn.
This old-time variety produces many double flowers.
This seed mix of 10cm wide ruffled powderpuff flowers of yellow, red, pink and white is one of the largest double-flowered varieties.
This vigorous grower with small, tender leaves is good for edging stone walks, patios and flower borders. Lovely chartreuse flowers and, as with all Lady's Mantles, fuzzy leaves that create a sparkling display in dew or rain.
Grow this Pacific Northwest native alongside streams and in other wet, marshy places. Smooth grey bark stands out in winter. Can reach 27m but usually grows to half that. Susceptible to tent caterpillars.
This very hardy ornamental onion has deep cornflower blue flower heads, 5cm across, June through summer. Good for fresh or dried arrangements. Gather and plant mini bulbs at flower stalk ends in autumn to propagate.
Similar to the giant flowering onion but smaller, this medium-sized species produces dense purple spheres of flowers 5 to 7.5cm across on long stalks.
Allium ostrowskianum bears rose-coloured flowers in late spring on low growing plants.
This variety is like the P. glandulosa, but blooms in double, bright rose-pink flowers.
This multistemmed shrub produces racemes of white to pinkish flowers in late spring, which are often followed by pink-red fruits. Reaches 1.2 to 1.5m tall and 90cm to 1.2m wide
Similar to Agave, with spiny, succulent blue-green leaves in big rosettes.
When grown in full sun, this aloe's blue-green leaves turn reddish-pink on the edges. In the desert, protect from hot sun. Brilliant coral-pink to orange flowers in spring. Can be grown in containers or as a houseplant.
Takes limited root space and is good in masses, as an edging, or in containers. Wide, thick leaves with small, horned teeth grow in rosettes to 30cm across and about as tall.
Use this vigorous grower as ground cover in frost-free regions. Bluish-green rosettes of short, thick flat-topped leaves are edged with small white teeth. May flower all year.
Use this vigorous grower as ground cover in frost-free regions. Bluish-green rosettes of short, thick flat-topped leaves are edged with small white teeth. May flower all year.
Beautiful greyish-green leaves form fans instead of rosettes, as in most other aloes. Scarlet flowers attract hummingbirds.
These hybrids are evergreen in mild climates and have a long blooming season if old flowering stems are cut. Water though summer for continuous bloom.
One of the hardiest and most vigorous of its species, try this in colder climates with heavy mulch. Good in containers.
After Fred Meyer's long blooming season, remove flowers. To encourage new growth, gently pull or twist -- don't cut -- stems a few centimetres above the soil.
As its name suggests, this plant looks like a miniature Christmas Tree, with tiny greenish-grey leaves that form a dense cone.
Introduced by the U.S. National Arboretum, this exceptional hybrid is a triploid with large, pure white flowers that don't close at night. Few seed pods so plant puts more energy into flowering.
Low, non-spreading mounds are often tinted bronze or purple. Topped by airy clusters of small, bell-like flowers. Evergreen perennials grown for their flowers and foliage.
The Clover-like flowers bloom in masses from summer to early autumn.
A tall grower that needs heat and sun to bloom well. Has 30cm long leaves and feathery purple flowers.
This species from the Himalayas has larger leaves and can endure more shade and moisture, but won't tolerate drought or heat as well as other varieties. Chalky white flower clusters grow up to 5cm in diameter.
Plant the tuberous roots of this lovely wild flower in spring in a partly shady, open woodland and do not disturb once planted.
Use this with ferns, plantain lilies, hellebores and other shade-lovers. Unusual shaped flowers provide an elegant touch in summer and early autumn.
From late summer until frost, 90cm plants bear demi-double, deep-rose flowers.
Semi-double, pink flowers appear on 90cm plants from late summer until frost.
Popular for its many single, clear white flowers with showy yellow stamens. The 90cm to 1.2m plants bloom from late summer until frost.
This early-flowering plant forms a mound of dark green, deeply lobed leaves and soft pink or white flowers. The back sides of the rounded petals are blushed with pink or crimson, giving a pink glow.
Tubers planted in autumn produce ruffled poppy-like flowers in spring. Perennial in warm regions such as Florida and southern California. In colder areas, lift tubers in autumn and store in a dry place.
Its solitary blooms rise on stiff stems above finely cut, parsley-like leaves. The 5 to 7.5cm wide, single, semi-double and double flowers are white, purple, red and blue. Soak tubers before planting to speed growth.
This popular mix includes double flowers of blue, violet, scarlet, pink and white with black centres.
The semi-double, white, many-petaled flowers last a long time.
Slow spreader that makes a good woodland ground cover, with white flowers often flushed with pink. Cultivars available with lavender, violet, blue or white flowers, single and double.
Bright yellow flowers make this fast-spreader distinct from other anemones. Tolerates full sun in cool climates but best in light shade. A. r. superba has larger flowers and bronze foliage
Low-growing drifts of small nodding flowers in blue, white and pink often bloom for a month. Plant tubers 5cm deep. Best in zones 6 to 9. Protect plants in colder areas.
Looks like the Japanese Anemone, but may bloom earlier in mid-summer.
For a grand accent in the garden, plant this robust, long-lasting anemone that can grow to 1.8m tall. Leaves are larger than Japanese anemones and look like grape leaves.
Some types are best for seed, others for leaf production. Seed varieties include æBouquetÆ and æLong Island Mammoth.Æ Leaf varieties include æAroma,Æ æDukat,Æ æDura,Æ æSari,Æ æTetraÆ and æVierling.Æ Some available only from herb or vegetable seed catalogs.
This type of Japanese Angelica has leaflets edged with creamy white and 90cm-long leaves.
A new introduction from Korea, where it is grown for medicinal purposes. This large-growing species produces huge clusters of purplish black flower heads on flowering stalks 1.2 to 1.8m tall that bees and wasps find irresistible.
More susceptible to fungal rots than other types, this medium-sized Kangaroo Paw produces large, wooly flowers on unbranched stems.
This low-growing, wide-spreading plant looks like a cushion. Evergreen in mild climates, its finely dissected grey leaves set off white daisy-like flowers.
Light yellow petals and deeper yellow buttons give this plants flowers a two-toned look.
5cm wide flowers bloom on plants up to 90cm tall. Cut back after bloom to keep vigorous and promote new shoots from the base.
Rounded masses of early-blooming flowers, 15 to 23cm tall. Colours include, copper, crimson, bicolour lavender and white. Excellent for formal bedding. Maintain shape during extreme heat.
A semi-dwarf or medium-tall variety in colours including rose, orange-scarlet and crimson. Early blooming, wind and heat-tolerant.
This compact, prolific bloomer is ideal for smaller gardens. One of the lowest-growing columbine hybrids.
An All-America Selection from 1955, they come in a wide range of solid and bicolour pastel colours on large, spurred flowers.
Compact plants that are good for small gardens and windy areas where tall plants may get damaged. Long, spurred flowers in bright colours.
This slow grower has a narrow, compact pyramidal form. Flat, spreading, erect sprays of shiny green foliage are fragrant when crushed. Keeps its colour in winter. Tolerates heat. Easy to transplant in spring or autumn.
This slow grower has a narrow, compact pyramidal form. Flat, spreading, erect sprays of shiny green foliage are fragrant when crushed. Keeps its colour in winter. Tolerates heat. Easy to transplant in spring or autumn.
Its blue-green foliage and pyramidal form make this a popular shrub. Reaches 1.8 tp 3m tall and 1.2 to 1.8m wide.
Tiny, scalelike, bright green leaves create a shiny, soft-textured, narrow pyramid of foliage. Reddish to greyish brown bark. Reaches 6 to 9m tall and 1.8 to 3m wide.
Foliage keeps its bright green colour, except in the coldest winters when it turns bronze. Slow growing, its densely branched pyramidal form reaches 3 to 3.6m tall and 60 to 90cm wide.
One of the best needled evergreen ground covers, it's a finely textured shrubby conifer. Its flat sprays of aromatic, green, scalelike foliage turns brownish-purple in winter.
Slow-growing, its tight, flat sprays of dark green foliage fill out in a globe that keeps its shape without pruning. Reaches 3 to 4.5m tall and 1.8 to 3m wide.
Even more heat- and drought-tolerant than other Manzanitas, this is one of the easiest to grow. It has a purplish- brown trunk and greyish-green leaves.
Prized for its deep pink, almost red flowers, dense, shiny leaves and lustrous bark, 'Palisades' is more resistant to fungal diseases than other Manzanitas.
Good ground cover for slopes, in rock gardens or trailing over walls, the Bearberry is widespread from coast to coast. Its glossy green leaves turn red in winter. Mulch with peat moss or sawdust to keep weeds down.
Majestic and fast-growing, its straight, erect trunk is topped with a narrow crown of 3 to 4.5m long, feathery, glossy green fronds.
Good for trailing over walls, this vigorous European native is less weedy and invasive than some Sandworts. Plant in slightly acidic soil.
Tight, small mounds of evergreen foliage make this good for rock gardens, containers, or as a small-scale ground cover. Especially fussy about drainage. Mulch with fine gravel to prevent basal stem rot, especially in summer.
In most areas, it grows year after year from small roots left after harvest. Harvest roots every year or they become too tough to eat.
Popular for its silky, finely cut, fernlike, silver-green leaves, this shrub reaches 60 to 90cm tall and 90cm to 1.2m wide. Tiny, round, yellow flowers appear in summer.
The silky, evergreen foliage of this tender plant looks like billowy clouds of silver.
Unlike other Artemesia, this has wide, showy grey leaves. Combine with Asters.
Showy wildflowers with plumes of small, creamy-white flowers. Best in moist, partially shaded locations. Male plants have feathery flower spikes. Females develop ornamental seed heads.
Fast-growing, it can gain as much as 6m during one season. Use in open areas along ponds and streams. The stiff stems have long, thin leaves. Several varieties are available.
Smaller and less hardy than the Giant Reed, this has white and green striped leaves. Good accent in back of flower borders or in large containers. Rejuvenate by cutting to the ground in spring.
Good for southern gardens where summer is hotter and more humid. Similar to A. canadense but less cold-hardy and even more heat-tolerant.
Excellent for meadow or prairie gardens, this native American wildflower has large, woolly, greenish grey leaves. Plant in irregular masses or drifts for a natural effect.
Small, white, summer flowers are followed by rounded and showy bright red fruits in autumn on this tree.
A conical, then spreading tree. Its oval, toothed, leaves that are glossy green in summer and bright orange-red in autumn. In late spring, clusters of small white flowers are later followed by egg-shaped, red-orange berries that last into winter.
Look for ôall-maleö varieties, like æJersey Giant.Æ These produce more and bigger spears since they donÆt spend energy making seeds.
Popular and widely available, this variety is resistant to rust.
This vigorous, much-branched plant has lance-shaped, rough leaves. It's covered in late summer and early autumn with small, long-lasting, fluffy, deep purple flowers.
With proper care, this plant produces more than 300 flowers from late summer to early autumn. Blooms are large and light blue and sometimes semidouble. Oval leaves are smooth.
Large dark red flowers grow on sturdy stems from late summer to early autumn. Plant forms a mound 38 to 46cm tall and wide.
Native to high mountains, it likes cool climates and cold winters to produce 5cm wide white flowers. Good in rock gardens; needs excellent drainage. Easy from seed.
Adaptable wildflower that grows in moist or dry sites, good for naturalizing or flower borders. Flowers have white or violet petals and prominent purplish or reddish brown centres.
Its large, semi-double, pink flowers bloom for weeks. Good as background in flower borders. Tall plants need staking.
This mid-size hybrid of New York Aster has brilliant crimson flowers. Use in the front or middle of flower borders.
This hybrid New York Aster produces masses of rosy pink flowers on medium-sized plants. A little shorter than æAlertÆ.
A purple-blue hybrid of New York Aster
Striking, clear lavender-blue flowers and a well-branched, elegant form make this one of the finest perennial Asters. Use with silver-leafed plants such as Artemisia æPowis Castle.Æ In areas with mild winters, produces some flowers throughout the year if dead blooms are removed.
Blooming 6 to 8 months a year in mild winter climates, this plant has striking silvery-green leaves shaped like wedges or spoons. Remove dead leaves, which often turn black and stick to stems.
For up to six weeks beginning early or mid-season, this colourful plant produces blooms on sturdy 90cm stems that usually do not need staking. Tolerates wet areas. Long-lasting cut flowers.
This mid-season bloomer may need staking. Semi-double flowers.
Lots of flowers on stiff stems at midseason.
A reliable, freely-blooming white Aster.
Blooms appear midseason on open-branched stalks. Other pink types include early-blooming Cattleya and Rhineland and Ostrich Plume which blooms midseason.
Fluffy panicles of tiny, star-shaped, deep raspberry-red flowers rise above dense green clumps of finely divided, coarse, toothed, hairy leaves.
Fluffy dense plumes of small, star-shaped, pure white flowers create a feathery effect. Dark green, broad, finely cut, fernlike leaves add to the delicate look.
Deep green foliage and showy pink flowers grace this excellent ground cover for shady moist areas.
Blooms later than most Astilbe hybrids thereby extending the season of interest, flowers are denser, plants are reportedly more heat and drought tolerant than most astilbes.
Masses of small, star-shaped flowers give a colourful, feathery effect to moist gardens. Broad, dark green, fernlike leaves.
Its clear white flower plumes and green foliage brighten and enhance perennial borders and woodland gardens.
From intense ruby-red to soft pinks, A. arendsii's flower plumes are a treat in shady spots.
Large, white, sharply pointed outer bracts edged with green make this a showy plant.
The only commonly grown type of Aubrieta, with long, branching stems and spoon-shaped leaves. Often seen in the Northwest, it grows in the wild from the eastern Mediterranean region to Iran.
This variety is similar to the species, but its leaves have a central golden spot.
Its clusters of 10 to 20cm long, sharply toothed, leathery leaves are brightened by small purplish flowers in spring.
Stout shoots and leathery leaves grow 10 to 20cm long on this dense, rounded evergreen shrub. Small, purplish spring flowers precede bright red, rounded berries that last for months.
Cultivated since the 1800s, this variety has wide, sulphur-yellow-edged leaves. For bright, red berries, plant this female next to a male in autumn.
Slower-growing variety with gold and white speckled leaves. A male clone that does not bear showy fruits.
Open-growing Pericat hybrid with ruffled flowers.
Although it may lose leaves in cold regions, this Gable hybrid is among the hardiest evergreen azaleas. Flowers in midseason on spreading plants.
This Mollis hybrid blooms heavily in May.
Gardens of the deep South are famous for this Southern Indica or Sun Azalea. More cold-tolerant than other Southern Indicas.
Bright pink, daisylike flowers bloom all summer on this fast-growing plant. It reaches 5 to 10cm tall and 10 to 60cm wide.
This dwarf flowers generously in blue, white or pink.
Along with the plain light green type, it comes yellow-splashed or -speckled.
The eye-catching yellow- and green-striped stems of this bamboo make it a fine accent in containers or against a backdrop of dark green shrubs. Stems, which are blushed with pink when new, are 12 to 25mm across and may grow 3.6m to 9m in the ground or 2.4 to 3m in containers.
Small purple flowers tinged with white bloom atop slender stems in spring. From summer into autumn, stems are hung with clusters of small, shiny ╝-in to ╜-in scarlet berries.
Slow-growing to 60 to 90cm tall and wide, its golden-yellow leaves turn yellow-green by late summer. Best leaf colour when planted in full sun. Yellow flowers are tinged with red.
This deciduous, multistemmed shrub is loaded with thorns. Its leathery, dark green, oblong leaves turning fiery red-orange in autumn.
True to its name, this is smaller than other Japanese Barberries and ideal as a low-maintenance hedge.
A formidable barrier, it's one of the thorniest and hardiest Barberries. Semi-evergreen in cold winter climates, its leaves may get bronzy or red tints in autumn and winter.
Bright yellow flowers cover this tight-growing, dwarf Basket-of-Gold.
Sulfur-yellow flowers cover this very compact Basket-of-Gold.
Lightly cooked, both bush and pole varieties have a smooth texture and nutty flavour. Excellent fresh, dried or frozen.
Clusters of spiny leaves at the top of tall trunks make this look less like a palm and more like a yucca or Joshua Tree than others of its species.
A heavily mint-scented perennial, its whorls of scarlet flowers are surrounded by red-tinted petal-like leaves. Blooms through summer on 60 to 90cm tall plant with stiff leafy stalks.
New growth starts blackish red and turns purplish green, while the tree itself matures into a stately form. Many purple-leaved selections exist, some of which retain leaf colour throughout summer.
This elegant weeping tree has pendulous branches that extend to the ground. It takes on a large, irregular, mounding shape with age. Smooth, grey bark attractive in winter. Stake for stability.
Early-blooming and compact-growing, this Bedding mix has white, pink, scarlet and salmon-orange flowers.
This old favourite Wax variety has dark bronze foliage with rose-pink flowers. Especially sun resistant and excellent for containers.
Bright, clear pink flowers rise above succulent stems with large leaves like angel wings. In partial shade and abundant moisture, plants multiply quickly.
Grow this long and profuse bloomer as an annual in cold climates or a perennial in frost- free or nearly frost-free areas. Cut back hard when plants become leggy and avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf spot. Blooms indoors all winter in a warm, sunny window.
Upright-growing, double-flowered Tuberous Begonias resemble Camellias and come in many colours, including orange.
These Tuberous Begonias are excellent in hanging baskets and planter boxes where their large, semi-double, downward-facing blossoms can be enjoyed.
Sun-resistant, it has deep bronze leaves with contrasting white flowers. Excellent for containers.
More tolerant of sun and wind than other large begonias, this has dramatic, arching stems and shiny leaves blushed red underneath.
Long bearded, blue or violet flowers nod on 15 to 30cm tall stems with pale-green, hairy leaves at their bases. A short-lived plant, it sets seed freely. 'Alba' has white flowers.
This rapid-spreading perennial reaches 15 to 30cm tall and wide. In late spring and early summer bears clusters of trumpet-shaped blue, purple or white flowers.
Hardy and compact, plant this dwarf variety in rock gardens and along the front edges of perennial borders. Their medium-blue, cup-shaped flowers bloom for several months.
In early summer, masses of Clustered Bellflower paint a stripe of deep violet-blue across the garden. Although invasive, their showy clusters of terminal flowers make them a favourite. Cut back old flower spikes to encourage a new wave of blossoms.
This rock garden or border plant with deep violet-purple flowers atop 30cm stems spreads aggressively by underground roots. Divide yearly. Cut stalks after flowering.
Vigorous but not invasive, this plant spreads in a low, leafy mound. Blooms in blue-violet early in season then again later. Use as edging or small-scale ground cover. Hand pick, don't cut, stems for rebloom.
A favourite in old-fashioned cottage gardens for borders, this strong-stemmed Bellflower makes an excellent cut flower. Its leaves are shaped like a peach tree. Cultivars range from white to blue and single- to double-flowering.
The classic English Daisy is single-flowered, but most of the varieties have double or semi-double flowers.
A seed mix of dwarf plants with 2.5cm double flowers combine well with spring bulbs.
With shiny, dark green leaves that turn bronze in winter, this dense, mounding plant makes an attractive low hedge that grows faster than the Wintergreen Barberry. Partly deciduous in colder climates.
Vigorous 60 to 90cm tall perennial with whorls of flaming scarlet flowers which bloom through summer. Remove faded flowers to extend bloom.
Its large, shiny leaves lend a bold element to the landscape year-round. Clusters of small rose or lavender flowers appear in spring.
Striking variety with bronze-tinted leaves and deep carmine flowers.
Vivid, magenta flowers held high above big leaves that turn bronzy purple in autumn give this a different look than other Bergenia. Leaves have a reddish tint when grown in full sun, but plants need partial shade in hot summer areas.
Early-producing, deep red beet that is tender and sweet. Vigorous plants produce dependably uniform crops.
Harvest roots 2.5 to 7.5cm across. Like most root crops, Beets need fertile, deep soil without large clumps or rocks.
Although not as hardy as B. papyrifera, this tall, white-barked, pyramidal Birch grows well in the Midwest. Resists borers and leaf miners.
Graceful, weeping tree with maple-like leaves. In hot, dry areas, grow in part shade and protect from hot wind.
The bright white bark appears painted on this single-trunked tree. Oval, coarsely toothed leaves form a narrow oval crown. Leaves are dark green in summer, golden yellow in autumn.
Use this graceful smaller birch with weeping branches in entryways or small gardens. White bark is cleft with black. Stake trunk to desired height. Won't tolerate dry, hot weather. Prone to leaf miner and birch borer.
Lower-growing with a showier flower than the Giant variety.
This tough ground cover is less weedy than the green-leafed species and so is grown more often. Its white-margined leaves are irregularly variegated. Remove plants that change to solid green leaves.
Tall, long-lasting flowers, with yellow petals and dark, high centre cones, bloom from mid-summer to autumn. Leave the flower heads to ripen for birds, for winter interest and to reseed plants.
7.5cm blooms in sunny-yellow shades inspired this cultivar's name.
Many long-blooming, rosy pink flowers and deeply cut, grey-green, clumping foliage make this a popular garden plant. Self-sows.
Spectacular stalks of pendulous white flowers rise above fernlike foliage. Goes dormant in summer and isnÆt as vigorous-growing as the pink-flowering species.
This type has white, heart-shaped flowers and deeply cut, grey-green, clumping foliage.
Each bulb produces one or more 20cm spikes of 5 to 6 deep, rich, blue flowers, each 2.5cm across. Reseeds and naturalizes in slightly moist ground. Poisonous.
Long clusters of blue-bell shaped flowers are borne on 30 to 60cm stems. May naturalize under deciduous trees and in favourable situations. Many varieties available.
The intensely blue, 7.5cm, thread-like flowers show off in borders and wild gardens, providing weeks of colour. Also blooms in white, pink and mauve. Can be weedy in the North, and more manageable in the South. Cut back in September for second bloom.
Masses of pink flowers bloom on these 1.2m tall plants. Use in the back of perennial borders or naturalize in meadow or wild gardens.
More compact growing, does not need staking. Plants are smothered with white flowers with bright yellow centres in late summer or early autumn.
Big, showy, reddish purple flowers bloom on this large, vigorous vine.
This wide-spreading, shrubby Bougainvillea grows 30 to 60cm high. The masses of flowers have bright, golden-yellow bracts that turn pink when mature. Prune to maintain shrub shape.
Long-blooming, vigorous and hardy, this excellent vine has brilliant deep-red flowers. Doesn't lose its deep green leaves even during cold spells.
This top award winner is an extra-early maturing, green Broccoli, ready in just 55 days. Full of vitamins A and C.
Its 20cm wide heads mature early, followed by a heavy secondary harvest from side shoots. Easy to harvest. Retains flavour even in high temperatures. Excellent variety for freezing.
Also called 'Aluminum Spot' because its large, rough leaves are spotted with silver at the edges. Plant in masses. Won't tolerate humidity and heat.
Each plant produces up to 100 sprouts. Autumn frosts improve taste. Plant in late spring or midsummer for harvest in 80 to 120 days. Sprouts mature from bottom. Remove leaves beneath lower sprouts to encourage growth. In early winter areas, pinch growing tips when plants are 38 to 50cm tall to encourage earlier, but smaller crops. In autumn, harvest stalks with sprouts, hang in cool, dry spot for winter eating.
This deciduous, round-headed, sometimes shrubby tree has low branches that bend toward the ground, arching back up at the ends. Leaves turn yellow in autumn. Greenish yellow flowers appear with leaves in late spring and early summer.
This deciduous, round-headed, sometimes shrubby tree has low branches that bend toward the ground, arching back up at the ends. Leaves turn yellow in autumn. Greenish yellow flowers appear with leaves in late spring and early summer.
This dense shrub offers bright yellow autumn colour. Creamy green flowers are followed by berrylike red fruits that turn black in autumn. Seeds spread by birds can cause unwanted sprouts.
This dense shrub offers bright yellow autumn colour. Creamy green flowers are followed by berrylike red fruits that turn black in autumn. Seeds spread by birds can cause unwanted sprouts.
This hybrid of B. davidii and B. fallowiana has a misty colouring from its violet-blue flowers and greyish woolly leaves. Use with pastel-coloured plants and flowers.
This is one of the tallest-growing types and needs staking. Not for small areas.
Its yellow poppy-like flowers bloom throughout the year. Use on hot dry banks.
Its yellow poppy-like flowers bloom throughout the year. Use on hot dry banks.
This South African native thrives in mild, Medditeranean-like climates.
Heat- and sun-tolerant, it has the largest flowers of all annual Impatiens. Available in red, plus 10 other colours including pink, carmine and violet.
Double-flowered and compact, itÆs good in containers and hanging baskets. Available in 6 other colours. æExtra Dwarf Tom ThumbÆ is a more drought-tolerant double-flowering mix.
Excellent for sunnier locations, it has compact growth and fade-resistant flowers. Along with pink, flowers come in 11 other luminous colours.
One of the most popular annual Impatiens comes in 16 colours, including appleblossom-coloured æBlushÆ; pink æPearlÆ with a rose eye; and carmine red æLipstick.Æ
This vigorous spreader has bright yellow flowers through the summer on stems 46 to 60cm tall.
Dense 15 to 30cm long clusters of fragrant, tubular, mauve-blue flowers bloom at the tip of every branch from mid summer to autumn. The dark grey-green, lance-shaped leaves are whitish on the undersides.
Even in colder climates, the deep green leaves on this upright pyramidal hybrid last through winter.
Brighten a dark corner of your garden with this variegated leafed Boxwood with creamy white margins. Use in containers as an accent. Leaves keep their markings rather than reverting to solidly green.
One the hardiest, blue-green, broad-leaved Boxwoods, it grows 60 to 90cm high. Wide-spreading and flat-topped with age.
Plant a selection of varieties to extend the harvest season. Varieties are Green, Red and Savoy (wrinkled leaves) and early, mid-season or late maturing. Plant early and mid-season cabbages in early spring. Plant mid-season and late-season cabbages in summer for autumn harvest. Protect seedlings from cutworms with paper cup collar.
Cabbage varieties range from the classic large green heads to red- and curly-leaved varieties. Plant seed or seedlings in autumn through winter, so that heads mature before or after heat of summer and before freezing winter weather. Keep soil moist, or plants send up flowering stalks.
Use its loose, upright heads of sweetly flavoured and aromatic leaves fresh or cooked in salads, soups and stir-fried dishes. Goes to seed in hot weather. Grows best in hot summer areas, with constant moisture, if planted 3 months before autumn frost. In mild winter areas plant in autumn for spring harvest. Seed transplants poorly, so start in peat pots or sow where plants will grow.
This cactus is best in hanging baskets or window boxes. Hardy only in zones 9-10, but grow as a houseplant elsewhere.
More ornamental than the species, with eight sharp ribs fringed with deadly, four-pronged spines. Flowers up to 7.5cm across may not appear until plant is older.
Its sturdy leaves of bright red with deeper red veins and bordered with green can withstand some wind.
This tricolour Caladium has waxy green leaves with bright orange-red centres and red venation.
This California native blooms before its large, heart-shaped leaves emerge and obscure its small flowers. Give it room to roam for a wild look in the garden. Best in part shade with abundant moisture.
Large white flowers grow from rhizomes planted in autumn or spring. Leaves are glossy and evergreen in warm climates. In zones 7 and colder, can be grown as a houseplant. In hot areas, give afternoon shade.
The soft pink flowers have central yellow spikes. In autumn, gradually withhold water to allow foliage to go dormant. In warm climates, replant in autumn. In other areas plant in spring. Leaves narrow with white spots.
Masses of bright rose-pink camellia with double, rose-like to peony-like flowers bloom on this shrub mid to late season. An excellent landscape plant, it's hardy, vigorous and compact.
Masses of bright rose-pink camellia with double, rose-like to peony-like flowers bloom on this shrub mid to late season. An excellent landscape plant, it's hardy, vigorous and compact.
An autumn blooming hybrid that is reportedly hardier than other camellias with fully double white flowers 5 cm across. Hardy to warm areas of zone 6.
This vigorous, compact hybrid is one of the most popular Camellias. Its large, semi-double, pink flowers bloom in masses when the plant is young. Resists sun and cold, but prefers some shade in hot summer areas.
This rose-shaped, shell pink flower blooms through autumn and winter. Hardier than C. Sasanqua. Edges of petals will turn brown in too much sun and wind.
Colourful, standard-sized, it has bronzy foliage and deep red flowers.
Surround with lower-growing, sun- and heat-loving plants such as Annual Vinca, Petunias and Dwarf Marigolds.
Striking orange flowers are set against green leaves. Combine with other orange and yellow summer-flowering plants such as Marigolds, Ornamental Peppers and Cosmos.
The small, long-lasting fruits begin green, change to yellow, then orange and finally red when fully ripened. Flowers are small.
Stunning scarlet flowers harmonize nicely with rich reddish-purple foliage.
Cardinal-red flowers bloom on 60cm spikes from mid- to late-summer. Foliage, 60cm to 1.2m tall, is dark green or red bronze. Likes moist soil, so mulch in summer and winter. Remove faded flower stalks.
One of the best Ceanothus ground covers, it reaches 1.8m wide. The bright, medium blue flowers grow in abundant clusters. Its leaves are glossy, dark green.
A deeper yellow than 'Golden Sun,' on 30cm tall plants.
Allwood Pinks yield bright, mostly double, blooms all summer. Foliage is usually grey green. Heights range from 7.5 to 50cm.
Dark red flowers from mid-June to August.
The classic Florist's Carnations, caryophyllus, tends to form floppy masses and make better cut flowers than garden plants.
Egg-shaped, shiny, bronze-purple leaves form a mat 20 to 60cm wide. Lilac flowers open on 15 to 30cm tall spikes in spring.
This mat-forming perennial has egg-shaped, shiny, grey-green leaves edged with white. Its blue flower spikes rise 10 to 15cm above the leaves in late spring.
This broadly rounded tree has short, crooked branches. They're filled with large white flowers with yellow and purple spots in late spring to early summer. Reaches 12m to 18m tall.
This All-America Selection winner produces the largest flowers of any annual Vinca, up to 2╜ across. Blossoms are white with a large red eye.
Bred for cooler climates, its flowers are rose-coloured.
Not a showy plant, its foliage is plain and its white flowers are small. Lemon minty scent of crushed leaves delights cats.
Give constant moisture, regular fertilization, and protect from sun for solid, mature heads. Varieties produce 45 to 100 days after planting.
This evergreen ground cover forms a 90cm mat of blooms ranging from white to lavender.
Flowers are darker blue than the species.
This large shrub with dark-green, leathery leaves is an early bloomer.
This cedar's needles are yellow when new, and turn golden-green in summer.
This fast-growing evergreen has mid to dark green leaves and grows in a 12m to 18m tall column. 4.5m to 6m wide. Plant several close together for a Japanese-style look.
This fast-growing evergreen has mid to dark green leaves and grows in a 12m to 18m tall column. 4.5m to 6m wide. Plant several close together for a Japanese-style look.
Drooping branches with blue needles and a beautiful, curving trunk make this a popular accent or specimen in a landscape or container. Stake to desired height.
Its large comb-like blossoms in crimson, white, salmon, pink, carmine, orange and bicolour grow on dwarf 13 to 15cm plants.
The deep scarlet flowers are plume-shaped.
This All-America Selection seed mix produces 30cm plumes on compact, medium-sized plants. Flowers come in rose, red, orange, yellow and cream.
Clusters of red tubular flowers bloom from spring through summer and into the autumn, followed by red berries. Fruit and sap are poisonous.
Spectacular and dramatic in form and flower, this large shrub or small tree bears large, pale yellow-orange trumpet-shaped flowers. Blooms are poisonous if eaten.
Spectacular and dramatic in form and flower, this large shrub or small tree bears large, pale yellow-orange trumpet-shaped flowers. Blooms are poisonous if eaten.
Use in the back of the perennial border or in the cutting garden in cool, dry conditions. go dormant without summer water, reappearing with Autumn rains.
Its fuzzy, pendant-shaped crimson flowers look like chenille or catÆs tails. Leaves are rich, shiny green ovals, toothed along the edges. Best grown in greenhouses.
The finger-width red tassels, which can reach 30cm long, are produced intermittently during the year in warm climates. Where grown as an annual, it blooms in summer.
The most popular variety of the Higan Cherry, its small, black fruits ripen in summer. Its graceful, pendulous branches hang down to the ground. Usually sold grafted at 1.5 to 1.8m high.
Large, double, deep pink flowers cover this flat-topped, vase-shaped tree from mid to late spring. Its new bronzy leaves mature to rich dark green Reaches 6m to 9m tall and 4.5 to 6m wide.
Small, pinkish, fragrant flowers are followed by blackish purple summer fruits on this slow-growing, multibranched shrub. Foliage is reddish purple. Reaches 1.8m to 3 tall and 90cm to 1.5 wide.
Pale yellow to creamy white summer flowers are followed by prickly fruits with edible nuts inside. In autumn, this low-branched tree turns shades of yellow and bronze.
Popular in dried flower arrangements, its masses of bright orange-red fruits are surrounded by red, balloon-like wrappers. May become invasive.
Graceful stems with maple- to heart-shaped, sometimes speckled leaves form a rounded shrub. The drooping, bell-shaped flowers (red, orange, yellow, or multi-coloured) bloom spring to autumn.
Graceful stems with maple- to heart-shaped, sometimes speckled leaves form a rounded shrub. The drooping, bell-shaped flowers (red, orange, yellow, or multi-coloured) bloom spring to autumn.
Its bright orange-red to orange-pink trumpet-like flowers are larger than C. radicans, but this shrub is not as vigorous. Grow as a large sprawling shrub or on an arbor or trellis.
Its bright orange-red to orange-pink trumpet-like flowers are larger than C. radicans, but this shrub is not as vigorous. Grow as a large sprawling shrub or on an arbor or trellis.
Pretty enough for flower borders, its lavender pompon flowers attract bees and are used in salads. Snip stems to sprinkle on soups, potatoes or cottage cheese. Evergreen in warm climates and deciduous in cold areas. Plants seed themselves readily so may pop up uninvited. Sold in pots in the herb section of the nursery. Sow seeds, or divide old plants.
Use the edible leaves for a mild garlic flavour in salads and in cooking. Abundant,violet-scented white flowers on tall stems attract bees and are showy in dried arrangements.
Similar to A. arbutifolia, but with more vivid, brilliant red foliage and fruit. Blooms in greater masses of white flowers too.
Similar to A. arbutifolia, but with more vivid, brilliant red foliage and fruit. Blooms in greater masses of white flowers too.
Its purple-black, berrylike fruit ripen in autumn and last into winter. Autumn leaves are wine red.
Its purple-black, berrylike fruit ripen in autumn and last into winter. Autumn leaves are wine red.
Its spreading clumps of upright stems are covered with dark green oval leaves that turn bright red in autumn. Berrylike fruits are also bright red.
Its spreading clumps of upright stems are covered with dark green oval leaves that turn bright red in autumn. Berrylike fruits are also bright red.
Native from Minnesota to New England and south to Tennessee, this rapid-spreading shrub has purple-black fruits that ripen in autumn and drop quickly. In autumn, its shiny, dark green leaves turn wine red. Adapts to drier soils.
Native from Minnesota to New England and south to Tennessee, this rapid-spreading shrub has purple-black fruits that ripen in autumn and drop quickly. In autumn, its shiny, dark green leaves turn wine red. Adapts to drier soils.
The crooked branches and slender twigs on this rounded-crowned, oval tree or shrub are covered with dense spikes of small, star-shaped flowers in late spring. Red fruits that ripen dark purple follow.
The crooked branches and slender twigs on this rounded-crowned, oval tree or shrub are covered with dense spikes of small, star-shaped flowers in late spring. Red fruits that ripen dark purple follow.
This showy tree blooms in rich pink or reddish purple flowers. Growth is fast for the first few years, then slows. Several cultivars are available with burgundy-red and deep pink flowers.
This low-growing, bushy annual thrives in cool climates and has single, bright lemon-yellow flowers.
Masses of single, rich purple flowers with red anthers and silver undersides appear in early summer and bloom for a long time. Dark green leaves are leathery. Attractive seed heads.
In late spring, masses of single, rosy red, sweetly scented flowers bloom. New leaves have a purplish tint, that matures to bronzy green. Reaches 6 to 12m tall and 1.8 to 3m wide.
The 10 to 12.5cm tall flower spikes on this plant are two-toned in rose and deep pink.
Its dark grey bark forms scaly ridges that curl outward. Pinkish leaves mature to dark green and turn yellow in autumn. Fragrant star-shaped white flowers appear in early summer. Females develop seed pods.
The deeply lobed leaves on this dwarf, 25cm plant is resistant to fading in sun. Slow to form flowers. Use in bedding or containers.
More resistant to heat and cold than other Cole crops, collards are popular in the South but grow everywhere. Harvest leaves when plants are 38cm tall. Be careful not to damage bud. Pick sparingly until plants grow larger, then up to 2/3 of the leaves at once.
Song sparrows, juncos and other small birds like the seeds of this woodland native of western North America. Good for naturalizing and wild gardens with ferns and other moisture-loving plants.
Hummingbirds pollinate the nodding blooms of this wildflower native to much of eastern and central North America. Best in shade with moist soil.
æGoldsturmÆ is German for ôstorm of gold,ö and this Coneflower is stunning with its bright petals and black centres. As the best selection of fulgida available, it offers the biggest flowers, 3-4" across. Spreads underground to form colonies.
Its burgundy-purple, ivy-shaped leaves colour best in full or partial sun during cooler months. Insignificant flowers are sometimes removed before bloom. Evergreen in zones 7 to 9.
As its name suggests, this has fine, threadlike foliage for a graceful appearance. Its flowers are the deepest yellow of any cultivar, and appear on upright plants. Shear after bloom to encourage rebloom.
Through seed companies, buy special selections, such as æIndian,Æ which has very sweet seeds and aromatic leaves that are better than commercial coriander.
This long-time favourite has bracts ranging from light pink to red. Not as hardy as the species.
All summer, tiny Snapdragon-shaped, golden-yellow flowers rise above a mound of blue-green foliage. Best in moist, well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soils.
A classic variety, it grows up to 1.2m tall and has 9cm flowers in white, pink, crimson and rose. Excellent when planted in masses.
This All-America Selection winner has bright orange-red, single flowers whose colour softens with age. Vigorous, bushy to 60cm tall, blooms from spring to late autumn.
Like its name suggests, the fruit on this dense grower resembles clusters of large cranberries. Turns red in autumn. More disease resistant that other varieties. Tolerates some shade.
Like its name suggests, the fruit on this dense grower resembles clusters of large cranberries. Turns red in autumn. More disease resistant that other varieties. Tolerates some shade.
Late spring and early summer pink flowers are followed by bright red berries that last into winter. The deciduous dark green leaves turn red in autumn.
Red buds open to fragrant pink flowers in spring as the leaves unfold. Small, fleshy, plump, red-tinged yellow crab apples follow in autumn.
Heavy-textured foliage on arching branches is tinged with red. Red buds open to pink flowers, followed by small, fleshy, bright cherry-red fruits that last into winter.
This flowering tree has dark green leaves and dark red to purplish red buds that open rose-pink. Bright red, fleshy crabapples appear in late summer.
This low-mounding perennial, with light green leaves and salmon pink flowers, spreads by underground rhizomes.
Its small mounds with light pink flowers are perfect for rock walls and gardens and along pathways. Deeply lobed leaves turn orange to red in autumn.
This Montbretia hybrid is a superior one with its richly coloured flowers. It is the result of a rare bigeneric hybrid, meaning its parents were from two different plant lineages.
The favourite masoniorum. The tubular, 4cm, orange flowers appear every summer. Likes sandy loam. Dig up and store corms, and replant after spring frosts.
One of the earliest to bloom, flowers are a striking silvery-purple.
This classic, white Crocus is an early bloomer.
Also called æTasty Green,Æ this varietyÆs non-astringent, low-acid flesh digests easily. The fruits are 25 to 30cm long. Plants have a long bearing season and resist mildew.
A generous spring bloomer, is drought-tolerant, and good in rock gardens. Has yellow-green, flower-like leaves above dark green leaves that turn red in autumn.
Dwarf, miniature or fragrant types are available and flower in red, salmon, white or purple.
Cut bud when growth stops and lower edible leaves begin to separate from the centre. Eat steamed with mayonnaise or butter, or stuffed with bread crumbs. Use the hearts in salads.
The flaking bark on this conical to pyramidal conifer's strong central trunk is reddish purple. The sprays of fine-textured foliage are grey- to blue-green. Reaches 9 to 15m tall.
This cone-shaped tree spreads with age. Its soft needlelike foliage is yellow-green in spring, dark green in summer and rusty red. The small cones and fibrous reddish brown bark add winter interest.
Its small, white flowers bloom showy pendant clusters in summer when few shrubs are in bloom.
Its small, white flowers bloom showy pendant clusters in summer when few shrubs are in bloom.
One of the most striking Cactus Dahlias thanks to its intense red and yellow petals.
A delicate yellow- and cream-coloured blossom in a Cactus-type.
A large-flowered Dahlia. Petals are predominately orange with white tips.
Round ball-like flowers with curled petals signify the Pompom-type.
Deep maroon, almost black, flowers are small, 7.5 to 10cm across and fully double.
Miniature pink flowers are 2.5cm across with a golden centre. Blooms in early summer on 30 to 36cm tall plants.
This sports medium-sized, deep yellow, double pompons.
æDoris DayÆ is a cardinal red hybrid.
Light yellow, 13cm wide flowers with gold centres bloom on 1.2 to 1.5m tall plants.
Its large, lavender-pink flowers often are more than 18cm across on tall-growing plants. Use as background plants in flower borders or in cutting gardens.
Fuchsia-purple flowers, 18 to 20cm wide, edged with white, bloom on 1.2 to 1.5m tall plants.
This striking dwarf variety has crimson-red, Cactus-like flowers.
An excellent dwarf mix of yellows, oranges and reds.
Flowers are 10cm across, yellow with large curled petals.
Also called Thymophylla tenuiloba, this Daisy-like annual has yellow flowers and grows to 30cm tall. Likes sandy soil, and self-sows in good conditions.
A fast-growing and mat-forming annual whose daisy-like flowers open only in sunshine.
Fast and easy to grow, itÆs a mainstay in warmer climates. Continuous blooms are single or double, above silver or green leaves. Replace every 2 to 3 years.
This lovely trailer produces a profusion of small, white, daisy-like flowers that age to pink. Excellent cascading down banks or rock walls, in containers, or as edging.
Useful in hot, sunny rock gardens or as an edging in flower beds, this slow-spreading plant is hardy except in severe winters. Once established, it tolerates drought but may rot in wet soil.
Its red, pink or white flowers above rich, ferny foliage bloom in summer. Divide every 3 years or so. Double-flowered types available.
Wonderful as a cut flower, easy to grow, the Shasta Daisy has been a garden favourite since it was created by the famous plant breeder Luther Burbank. Use this dwarf with large, single white flowers, in containers, as edging, and in perennial or wild gardens. Replace every 2 to 3 years.
Its extremely fragrant flowers often bloom on leafless stems. Red fruit matures in June.
This plant, with large, deep, rosy-pink flowers, often reblooms in late summer. Likes cool, moist, and acidic conditions.
In shallow soil, use half-long types like 'Nantes.' For containers, try miniature varieties such as 'Amstel' or 'Short and Sweet.' Watch out for old carrots--they are tough!
This 20 to 30cm tall x 60cm wide perennial has green leaves edged in silver that stay through winter. Small, hooded white flowers bloom in late spring to mid-summer. May be invasive.
Great for dried or cut flowers, these plants reach 60cm high. Likes full sun, but not long hot summers. Remove spent flowers. Cut back to ground when leaves yellow for autumn bloom.
Shades of darkest violet with a black bee (centre). Flowers in June. Plant grows to 1.2m tall.
This Pacific hybrid has double flowers ranging from lavender to pinkish with contrasting white centres.
A purple-rose, double-flowered Pacific hybrid with white centres. However, individual flower colours can vary.
This large grower is available in many improved selections with pure white or pink, single or double flowers. Prune after flowering to enhance future blooms or for more compact growth.
Its low, neat, dense mounds of evergreen greyish green leaves are topped with double, deep pink flowers on 10cm stems. Great for rock gardens, the front of flower borders and containers.
Elegant plants with mounding fern-like leaves and arching sprays of deep-rose flowers from late spring to frost.
The creamy white bracts on this large shrub or small tree last for weeks; plump red fruits follow. Its leaves turn orange to red in autumn. Older flaking bark is grey, tan and brown.
The creamy white bracts on this large shrub or small tree last for weeks; plump red fruits follow. Its leaves turn orange to red in autumn. Older flaking bark is grey, tan and brown.
Star-shaped, creamy white flowers appear on this shrub in late spring and early summer, followed by white fruits. Leaves turn red or orange in autumn. Young shoots are bright red in winter.
Dramatic in mass plantings because its showy, green and white variegated leaves last till autumn. In winter, red stems stand out. Slower spreading than C. sericea, therefore better for the small home garden. Prune hard in late winter.
New fronds on this striking evergreen fern emerge rosy brown and mature to a rich, shiny green. Excellent for woodland areas and shady rock gardens.
One of many plants called Dusty Miller, itÆs grown for its silvery-white foliage, not its small yellow or purple flowers. Add textural contrast or breakup and soften hot-coloured flowers such as Marigolds and Salvias. Use in fresh or dried arrangements.
Globe-shaped, steel-blue flowers and deeply cut, grey-green leaves offer texture and colour. Also in blue- and white-flowering types. Heat-tolerant, plant will naturalize.
This rounded, evergreen shrub has many twiggy branches covered with tiny, glossy, bright green leaves. Flowers are rose-purple to lilac to white. Reaches 15 to 60cm tall and wide.
This strongly weeping tree has pendulous, sinuous branches and large, rough, dull green leaves.
This round-headed native elm has small, lustrous, oval, dark green leaves that are rough to the touch. Reaches 15 to 21m tall and 12 to 18m wide.
Its large flowers are deep rose-pink with white-tipped spurs.
Annual, biennial, and perennial herbs grown for their spring and summer, daisylike flower heads.
One of the most popular Wallflowers, it has masses of purple flowers that cover a wide-spreading, fast-growing, shrubby mound.
Widely grown, it has large, golden-yellow flowers and is extremely vigorous.
This dwarf, award-winning hybrid has large bowl-shaped, deep blue flowers and silvery green leaves. Heat- and drought-resistant.
Flowers in solid, soft tones of rose, pink, white and lilac, plus light and dark blue bloom from this seed mix.
This sometimes invasive plant is good for wild gardens or flower borders, and excellent in dried arrangements. Cut stems before they mature and hang upside down to dry.
Covered with small, blue flowers with white eyes throughout the summer, use it in hanging baskets or containers where stems can cascade downward.
This hardy timber tree reaches 9 to 30m tall. Its dark bluish green or greyish green foliage spreads 4.5 to 15m wide. Won't tolerate high temperatures or cold winds.
This hardy timber tree reaches 9 to 30m tall. Its dark bluish green or greyish green foliage spreads 4.5 to 15m wide. Won't tolerate high temperatures or cold winds.
Its slender feathery sprays of dark green foliage have whitish lines underneath. Branches are arranged on horizontal planes. Reaches 12 to 15m tall.
Its slender feathery sprays of dark green foliage have whitish lines underneath. Branches are arranged on horizontal planes. Reaches 12 to 15m tall.
This weeping form of C. nootkatensis has graceful, hanging branches.
Of the three main types, Common Fennel is biggest, reaching 90cm to 1.5m tall.
The shiny, undivided, apple-green fronds make this one of the most elegant and distinctive ferns. Grow as a houseplant or outdoors in parts of zone 10.
Where winters are cold, this dainty fern thrives in a greenhouse or as a houseplant. To propagate, divide new fronds from creeping rhizomes, though plants grown from spores have better shape.
Popular in Victorian gardens, it's now used in flower borders and as edging. Taller plants reseed well. Use shorter ones, called matricaria, as bedding plants.
Rubber plant~~Use outdoors in southern California and Florida for its glossy, dark green leaves that feel rubbery. Foolproof indoor houseplants.
Rubber plant~~Use outdoors in southern California and Florida for its glossy, dark green leaves that feel rubbery. Foolproof indoor houseplants.
This narrow pyramidal fir is almost columnar. Its bark is silvery grey. An excellent lawn tree for cool climates and moist conditions.
It's popular for its exotic Christmas tree and bluish green foliage. Bark is fibrous and rich reddish-brown. 'Glauca' variety has more bluish green leaves than the species.
Excellent for rock gardens, containers and bonsai, this dwarf form has beautiful silvery blue leaves, which form a low, broad-speading conical shape.
Excellent for rock gardens, containers and bonsai, this dwarf form has beautiful silvery blue leaves, which form a low, broad-speading conical shape.
The largest of firs, it grows best in the cool, moist conditions of its native Northwest and in parts of California. Remove bottom branches of tall trees to allow sunlight for gardening below.
Early blooming, silvery plumes rise up to 60cm above the foliage on this smaller, more compact Miscanthus. Needs lots of moisture and a cool autumn for brilliant flame-orange autumn colour.
Large, saucer-shaped, bright yellow flowers bloom late spring to autumn and all at once on this shrub. The evergreen or semi-evergreen, lobed, dark green leaves have feltlike undersides.
This vigorous perennial flax is the most popular variety. Its sky-blue flowers open on sunny days, but close at night and on overcast days.
One of the most widely planted of all Flax, its bold upright leaves are deep purple and red tinted.
This very early and generous blooming plant has deep indigo-blue flowers with~~white and yellow centres.
Longer blooming than the annuals, this perennial thrives in moist or boggy soil. Native to Europe, it has naturalized throughout eastern US and Canada.
The only Forsythia with autumn colour, the bright green, serrated leaves on this flat-topped shrub turn bronze in autumn . Bright yellow flowers with a slight greenish tinge bloom in early spring.
Use this large weeping shrub to cover slopes and banks or cascade down walls and embankments where the long branches can trail. Not as many bright golden-yellow flowers as F. x intermedia.
Out of graceful, arching, 90cm long, narrow green leaves rise small, rose-purple spikes in summer.
A late blooming ornamental grass with wide, shiny, dark green leaves. When in bloom, deep purple to black, bottlebrush-shaped flower spikes rise above its leaves. Reseeds in moist areas. Use along pathways and borders.
A popular dwarf of 60 to 90cm in height and width, its white to buff-coloured flower spikes bloom slightly earlier than the straight species. Reportedly doesnÆt reseed itself. Golden leaves in autumn.
Stunning burgundy-red foliage and red-purple flower plumes show off throughout the warm growing season. Grow as an annual in colder climates, but needs summer warmth for showy leaf colour. Start by division. Also called Pennisetum setaceum æAtropurpureum,Æ æAtrosanguineumÆ and æCupreum.Æ
Robust stalks are covered with large, open-faced, dangling, spotted flowers in shades of white, pink and red. If started from seed in spring, flowers 1 year later.
For an abundance of both colour and fragrance, mass in clumps or drifts. Double-flowered and bicolour varieties are available.
A compact dwarf about 30cm tall, its flowers have deep red petals with yellow tips.
The bicolour flowers have maroon centres and yellow-tipped petals.
Common Society Garlic has solid green leaves, but there are also lower-growing, variegated versions. Some use the strong-smelling leaves as a seasoning.
Its white-striped leaves are interesting even when plants arenÆt in bloom. More widely grown, though less vigorous than the species. (Pink variety shown). Flower stems to 2 ft high. Can be used for seasoning.
Spikes of white 38 to 46cm long flowers, open from the top down, summer to autumn. Foliage reaches 90cm to 1.5m tall. When cutting, leave 2/3 of stem to produce food for plant. Heat-tolerant.
This trailing plant has stiff, waxy, fleshy, ivy-shaped leaves. In summer, blooms white to deep red with darker markings.
This tough ground cover has finely dissected leaves and magenta pink flowers that withstand sun and heat. Attractive in foliage where hardy, even at summer's end. Shear lightly after bloom. Cut back hard in early spring.
In mild winter areas, these South African natives bloom several times each year, especially in early summer and late autumn.
Wall germander leaves form neat mounds that make a refined, diminutive hedge. Shear purple flowers when faded. Attractive to bees; shrubby with creeping rootstock; upright to spreading stems; leaves aromatic when crushed.
From a 38cm high mound of leaves rise 60cm stalks with bright scarlet, double flowers.
In rich soil and with plenty of water, this spreads quickly into a lush sea of kidney-shaped leaves. Produces reddish-brown flowers, but they are usually hidden beneath leaves. Start from division or from container-grown plants.
Use the roots of this plant as a ginger substitute. An eastern counterpart of A. caudatum and more heat-tolerant than A. european. Its paired leaves up to 18cm long may irritate skin. Divide in spring.
This large-flowered, white Gladiolus is edged and splashed with lavender.
This Gladiolus has sturdy spikes of large, golden-yellow, ruffled flowers.
Its rose-coloured flower spikes make long lasting cut flowers. Stake if needed. Cut when the first bud shows colour. Use in rock gardens or containers, and water during growing season.
A shorter cultivar, this one sports intense red blooms.
Clump forming perennial with deeply divided green leaves. Spring or summer flowering, the white, orange, or yellow blooms resemble large double buttercups.
Stately stands of deep green foliage provide a background for 10cm, orange-yellow, cup-shaped flowers.
This excellent spiny barrier plant is evergreen with some summer water and planted against a south or west wall. Drooping reddish flowers are fuchsia-like. Red berries are gummy and bristly.
Use its 90cm high, curved, white flower spikes in floral arrangements. Likes sun or partial shade. Invasive, unless divided frequently.
Out of tight, vertical clumps, feathery clusters of yellow flowers appear in spring and turn gold by autumn. In cold areas, the green foliage turns tan in the autumn. Use this non-invasive grass in meadows, where roots stay moist. Best in cool weather.
Reddish-bronze flowers appear in late spring above its tight clumps. Later in the season, flowers turn buff and, in cold areas, the green foliage turns tan.
White-striped, coarse, green leaves and plumes make a bold statement. They start out pinkish and fade to beige with maturity.
Its common name comes from distinctive, stiff, bright green leaves banded in yellow which look like porcupine quills. Plumes open copper-tinted, fading to silvery white.
One of the best ornamental grasses for autumn colour, its silvery plumes rise above reddish tinted foliage in mid summer. In early autumn, foliage turns a vibrant red-orange, fading to burnt reddish-brown as winter arrives. Water in summer for autumn colour.
This clump-forming grass spreads slowly by runners. Needs even moisture, especially in hot areas. Use pink flowers in fresh or dry arrangements.
This pyramidal tree looks good year round. In spring, its deep green leaves turn purple, yellow or red, depending on type and weather. Tolerates smog, dust, sun and wind. Needs little pruning.
The many 90cm plus branches hold hundreds of sprays of tiny, single, white flowers.
More billowy than Gypsophila paniculata, its clusters of tiny, double, white flowers rise 60cm to 1.2m. Somewhat short-lived.
More cold-tolerant than other Sparaxis, itÆs also the most commonly grown. Flowers are multicoloured in gaudy pinks, yellows, reds and purples, and splashed with contrasting colours. Usually have bright yellow throats and dark blotches at the base of each petal. The cultivar, æAlba,Æ has white flowers.
Large and abundant white double flowers.
Its golden-yellow, double flowers with pompom centres bloom late summer to early autumn.
Yellow-orange, daisy-like blooms borne above this upright perennial.
The deep plume-purple flowers have green throats.
From 30cm high clumps rise 5cm, bright yellow flowers.
From 30cm high clumps rise bright rust and orange bicolour flowers.
From vigorous 90cm high clumps rise fragrant, soft citron yellow flowers in mid- to late-summer.
Long-blooming, it flowers from late May until autumn frost. Small, fragrant, slightly ruffled, bright gold flowers have green throats. Excellent for containers.
Spectacular, fragrant, lemon-yellow flowers with green hearts. Flowers bloom in succession, each last for only one day.
A popular screen or hedge, this broadly conical, dense tree usually has two or more trunks. 'Pendula' variety is a broad plant, 60 to 90cm high and twice as wide. Many dwarf or pendulous varieties available.
One of the Hemlocks tolerant of city conditions, the soft look of its foliage is created by the whorled arrangement of its dark green needles on the twigs. Smaller than other Hemlocks.
Good for the eastern U.S., this dense rounded Hemlock has an almost clipped look. Its orange shoots hold deep green leaves, banded with white below.
The tallest Hemlock, this conical conifer has drooping branchlets and fine-textured foliage. Pale green cones ripen to brown. Won't grow well in the eastern U.S. without the moist atmosphere of Western mountain slopes.
Train for an elegant 1.5 to 2.4m display of dark green, deeply cut leaves and blue hibiscus-like flowers throughout the year. Choose 'Santa Cruz' for deep blue flowers; 'Monterey' is even bluer.
Red petals sport symmetrical white striping.
This fern's lance-shaped, glossy fronds with toothed edges resemble Holly leaves. Young fronds are often covered with whitish or brown scales. Reaches 30 to 60cm tall.
One of the showiest Sea Hollies, its stout blue stems hold large, steel-blue flowers and bluish, leathery, toothed leaves.
The small size of this dwarf version of the Burford Holly is an asset in compact gardens. Produces less dark red fruit than the Burford. Leaves usually have only one spine at tip.
Used as a barrier hedge, its spiny batwing-like leaves and compact form make it impenetrable. This tough male clone produces no fruit.
One of the few Hollies that suckers and forms clumps. It should never be pruned into a hedge. Leave as a tough, hardy, 90cm to 1.2m tall shrub. Dark blue black berries appear on female plants.
The abundant large red berries on the female plant remain into winter after leaves have fallen. Excellent for birds. The male needed for pollination.
Like the other A. rosea, but with red, hibiscus-like blossoms.
Blooms in white in summer and early autumn.
Pink- or white-flowered in spring, the coin-like appearance of the seed pods has inspired its many common names. Variety with variegated leaves available.
One of the most fragrant Hostas, it has been grown in Chinese gardens for centuries. Its large, waxy white flowers appear in late summer and early autumn. Plant near walkways and entrances. The heart-shaped leaves have prominent impressed veins.
This award-winning variegated Hosta has deep forest green leaves with white margins. Grows vigorously. Tolerates partial sun.
Good for edging flower beds and lawn borders with masses of lavender flowers. Fast growing and sun tolerant. Resists pests.
Summer-blooming, violet flowers stand well above the heart-shaped, green leaves with irregular creamy-yellow margins. Plant reaches 30 to 60cm tall x 60 to 90cm wide.
This white flowering Hosta has won awards. The large golden green leaves have slightly wavy edges contrast nicely with dark foliage plants, such as Liriope planiscapus 'Nigrescens.'
Unusual purple, pea-like flowers are followed by clusters of flat, peapod-like fruit.
Very early blooming, it quickly reseeds if the spring ground is moist. Typically flowers are blue, though several coloured varieties available, including 'Spring Beauty,' with darker blue stripes.
Plant hyacinths near pathways and entrances to enjoy fragrance, effective when massed in beds or containers. If left in the ground, next year's flowers will be smaller but still colourful and fragrant.
Boasts large, pure white flowers.
Flowers are orange-yellow blushed with apricot.
A classic variety, with deep carmine-red flowers with white centres.
More refined and compact than 'Grandiflora', so better suited to the small home garden. The smaller flowers are still showy.
Variety usually available is 'Grandiflora.' It produces long clusters of long-lasting sterile flowers, which fade from white to pinkish. Excellent dried flowers.
Variety usually available is 'Grandiflora.' It produces long clusters of long-lasting sterile flowers, which fade from white to pinkish. Excellent dried flowers.
A cluster of tiny, white fertile flowers encircled by showy sterile ones gives this the lacy appearance of a bride's bouquet. 'Blue Wave' is similar, with blue flowers.
This wide-spreading, 15 to 25cm tall variety has large flower heads.
Hybrids come in pink, lavender and red, with white to yellow leaf markings.
æSatelliteÆ has orange flowers and bright yellow variegated leaves.
This cultivar has deeper red foliage than other varieties. Spreads by underground runners.
Easy-to-grow, with showy, large pink flowers. Use it in bedding or plant among a subtle, low-growing ground cover as a backdrop for its flowers.
Each bulb produces 1 to 2 large flowers, 7.5 to 10cm across. Many colours available. Plant in autumn, and mulch in coldest climates. Withhold water after bulbs go dormant in summer. In areas of summer rain and in cold winter climates, dig up and store bulbs until autumn.
Use this early-blooming, 15 to 20cm high, dwarf in the front of flower borders and in rock gardens. Blooms in a wide range of colours, mostly yellow or lilac.
The first to bloom in spring, fragrant flowers smell like violets. Varieties include æCantab,Æ with pale blue flowers and orange marks, and æJ.S. DijitÆ with deep reddish-purple blooms.
Varieties of blue Bearded Iris include æPixie Princess,Æ a dwarf; æSmall Sky,Æ a standard dwarf; and æBlue Fragrance,Æ of intermediate height.
Pink Bearded Iris varieties include æCherry Spot,Æ a dwarf, and æSweet Allegro,Æ of intermediate height.
Bearded Iris varieties available in white include æBaby Snowflake,Æ a standard dwarf, and æLittle Angel,Æ of intermediate height.
The dwarf æWatercolour,Æ standard dwarf æEarly Sunshine,Æ and intermediate-height æButterbitÆ are among the yellow Bearded Iris varieties.
Widely available, it has exceptionally dark velvety flowers. Shows off colour by planting it against a light background.
This vigorous climber has smaller maplelike leaves than others. The leaves overlap on masonry walls like shingles to form a dense cover. They are bright green in summer and a spectacular shade of red in autumn.
One of the largest-leaved ivies with deep yellow variegation brightens any dark garden corner.
For a whimsical touch in a woodland garden, plant these with hostas, ferns and epimediums. Flowers have a sheath that encloses a club-shaped spike bearing tiny flowers.
Similar to B. pendula, this fast-growing Asian species has white bark. Glossy leaves turn yellow in autumn. Resists bronze birch borers.
This vase-shaped shrub's green leaves turn marbled red, orange and yellow in autumn. Its masses of spidery, fragrant, coppery orange flowers bloom on bare branches for 3 to 4 weeks from early to mid winter.
Short-lived perennial, so treat as an annual. From spring to autumn masses of tiny multi-coloured blooms in combinations of white, yellow and shades of purple. Naturalizes in some areas. A favourite for planting over bulbs, such as daffodils and tulips.
This type forms an 20 to 30cm tall mound of dense, 1.2m to 2.4m wide, feathery branches. Its very short foliage stays bright green in winter and smells unpleasant when crushed.
Prune or shear to an erect, narrow conical tree or spreading shrub. Foliage is green to blue-green to greyish green and has a sweet fragrance if crushed. Fruits are blue. Drought tolerant when established.
Prune or shear to an erect, narrow conical tree or spreading shrub. Foliage is green to blue-green to greyish green and has a sweet fragrance if crushed. Fruits are blue. Drought tolerant when established.
The glossy bluish-green leaves on these upright trees or spreading shrubs are banded with white. The round, greenish berries turn blue, and ripen to black in the third year. Prune or shear from 30cm to 6m tall.
The glossy bluish-green leaves on these upright trees or spreading shrubs are banded with white. The round, greenish berries turn blue, and ripen to black in the third year. Prune or shear from 30cm to 6m tall.
This is a similar, but lower and more spreading, form of 'Arcadia.' It has soft, grass green, lacy foliage.
Prune or shear these into 60cm to 3m tall upright forms or spreading ground covers. The dark green foliage is soft to the touch. Varieties grow well in limestone soil.
More compact that the common Pfitzer juniper, this plant has golden-bronze foliage that keeps its colour year-round.
Excellent for rock gardens, containers or Japanese gardens. It forms finely textured mats that become low, mounding plants with light, green foliage that does not turn brown.
This bushy plant is also sold as Valeriana ruba. Varieties include æAlbusÆ with white flowers; æAtrococcineusÆ with deep red flowers; and æRoseusÆ with rose blooms.
Impressive, this flowering Kale has 30cm wide heads with bright centres of red or white.
The largest and hardiest of the Kangaroo Paws with stunning flowers.
Use this low-growing type for smaller gardens, courtyards, patios and containers.
One of the most vigorous varieties, it comes with leaves tinged silver. Another variety, æHermans Pride,Æ forms tidy mounds to 20cm tall.
Silvery green leaves splashed with white and soft pink flowers.
In summer, the needles on this weeper are a lighter green than other larches. In winter, needles turn bright yellow and orange and eventually drop.
One of the few native U.S. larches, this slender tree dislikes heat, shade or pollution, but tolerates wet soils. Fussy about sun and temperature. Waxy leaves.
A short-lived West Coast native perennial with showy orange-red tubular flowers which attract hummingbirds.
This evergreen, summer-blooming shrub is grown for its aromatic foliage and white, blue, violet or dark purple flower spikes.
The toothed grey-green leaves of French lavender set it apart. Plus, it blooms continuously in mild-winter areas. A tuft-like crown of petals top flowers.
Fern-like leaves make this lavender attractive when not in bloom. Won't tolerate hard frost, but may be grown in a greenhouse or sun room, where it produces dense spikes of flowers all winter.
Prune this prolific summer bloomer hard for compact plants and to promote bloom. New growth is covered with soft, white down.
This popular dwarf variety makes an excellent herb garden choice. Dies if over-watered. Produces deep blue-lavender flowers.
It grows well in mild coastal areas, with purple, dome-shaped flowers intermittently throughout the year. Hardy to 25║ F. Easy to grow from seed.
Used in many French recipes and commanding high market prices, leeks are cherished for their white leaf stems which have a mild onion flavour. Leeks are easy to grow starting with seed sown inside 6 to 8 weeks before transplanting to garden in early spring. In mild climates plant spring through autumn where summers are cools and in autumn where summers are hot. For tender white leaf stalks, blanch by mounding up soil at the base as plants grow. Harvest mature leeks beginning in midsummer but plants can be eaten when younger.
Grown only in warm areas, flowers are followed by juicy yellow fruits. Reaches 6m to 7.5m tall and wide. Water deeply all year, especially when fruit is ripening. After tree is established, thin out branches and remove dead wood. Soggy soil inhibits growth.
Grown only in warm areas, flowers are followed by juicy yellow fruits. Reaches 6m to 7.5m tall and wide. Water deeply all year, especially when fruit is ripening. After tree is established, thin out branches and remove dead wood. Soggy soil inhibits growth.
Produces many short-lived flowers which open sequentially over a long period on 60cm to 1.2m plants.
Use this early bloomer in woodland gardens, or plant in masses. Good companion for late-blooming spring bulbs, violas and pansies. Available in large and double-flowered selections.
Greener and more nutritious than æIceberg,Æ æRomaineÆ or Cos Lettuce makes a crispy salad. Varieties include æParris Island CosÆ, æDark Green CosÆ and æValmaine.Æ
This variety has many large flowers on each stem of these vigorous plants.
One of the easiest to grow, their up to 2.5cm across flowers range from pink to red to apricot, plus bicolours.
The most commonly grown species, 'Alba,' shown here in an arrangement, flowers only in white.
The flowers of this most commonly-grown species are violet.
Its soft, chartreuse foliage contrasts well with darker colours, such as purple-flowered or bronze-leafed plants.
This cultivar has smaller, more delicate flowers than the straight species.
The long-stalked, kidney-shaped leaves form green mounds above which Daisy-like flowers rise to 1.2m on purple stalks.
From a compact mound of bold, light-green, toothed leaves rise 30 to 46cm narrow spikes of bright yellow flowers. Plant in perennial borders with abundant moisture.
Easily trained as a tree, it reaches 9m high and wide. Unlike other Lilacs, the flowers aren't sweetly fragrant and bloom in midsummer. Good lawn or street tree, especially where winters are cold.
Easily trained as a tree, it reaches 9m high and wide. Unlike other Lilacs, the flowers aren't sweetly fragrant and bloom in midsummer. Good lawn or street tree, especially where winters are cold.
A sampling of spring to early autumn flowering lilies grown for their often fragrant, brightly coloured flowers.
This hybrid of a native American lily has yellow, upward-facing blossoms with maroon spots and curved petals. Unlike most lilies, it doesnÆt like freezing, but tolerates damp soils.
Bulbs produce up to 20, 12.5cm wide, fragrant flowers. Plant in late summer or early autumn when bulbs are dormant. Keep dry until new growth begins.
Fast-growing, it has heart-shaped, forest-green, puckered leaves with narrow, bright white margins. Tall, lavender flowers spikes bloom from mid- to late-summer.
These long-lasting blooms with fuzzy leaves make novel cut flowers. Pure white, spotted, as well as a variegated form with gold-edged leaves are available.
This variety, not often seen in gardens, has pale purple-pink flowers.
Winged flower stalks emerge from rosettes of lobed leaves. Use dwarf varieties in masses and containers. Taller varieties are good for cutting, but may need staking.
Used in native medicine and smoked by Hottentots, this striking perennial or shrub border is evergreen in mild climates. In colder areas, cut back in autumn. Velvety-textured flowers.
More heat-resistant and earlier blooming than others, this Lobelia blooms dark violet-blue above green foliage.
A much-planted variety, it has bronze-red foliage and ultramarine-dark blue flowers.
This two-toned Lobelia has white flowers splashed with blue.
Moderately heat tolerant, with some of the largest blossoms of any variety, æSnow CrystalÆ adds masses of brilliant white colour.
Small enough to never need staking, this dwarf series comes in many colours.
A selection of red lupines from the Russell series.
This variety is popular for producing masses of violet berries in large, hanging clusters in early autumn.
The 2.5cm wide, brilliant orange flowers cluster above bronze or reddish foliage.
This All-America Selection winner has 8 to 10 oz. fruit on a strong determinate variety. Fruit ripens without cracking 70 days from planting. Well-adapted for cages. Resists verticillium, fusarium, nematodes and tobacco mosaic virus.
The delicate scarlet flowers make a fine display when planted in masses or large drifts beneath tall shrubs or trees.
Pure white, fragrant flowers develop on this slender pyramidal magnolia. Its oval leaves are anise scented.
A type of Star Magnolia, but with larger, highly fragrant flowers and more abundant petals. Buds are pink, while blooms are white.
In mild-winter areas, this is an almost non-stop, profusely blooming shrub that can be trained into a single stem with a crown of leaves and flowers at the top. Cut back heavily after flowering to keep it compact. Drought tolerant once established.
A narrow grower, with a long bloom and lobed foliage that makes it look like a Hollyhock.
In mid-summer, this 1.2m tall, shrubby perennial bears 18 to 25cm flowers in shades of pink to red. Prefers moist locations. Cut flowers wilt within an hour. Pinch ends to promote bloom.
Developed for Alice du Pont in her favourite colour, its clusters of ice-pink flowers bloom among the glossy green leaves for more than half the year. Also grown indoors. Needs rich soil.
This 10 to 15cm tall shrub forms a loose mat of shiny, bright green leaves and reddish brown stems. Small, urn-shaped, white or pink flowers appear in spring, but are partly hidden by the leaves.
This tall shrub is one of the most adaptable of the manzanitas, with red bark and interesting, crooked branching that make it ornamental in winter.
This tall shrub is one of the most adaptable of the manzanitas, with red bark and interesting, crooked branching that make it ornamental in winter.
One of the most adaptable of A. densifloras, this intricately branched and finely textured mounding shrub reaches 90cm to 1.2m tall and wide. Small, round, glossy, bright green leaves cluster on smooth, reddish black branches. Flowers are pale pink.
The soft, green leaves on this broadly rounded, multistemmed tree turn rich yellow and red in autumn. Purplish red flowers bloom in spring before leaves emerge.
The soft, green leaves on this broadly rounded, multistemmed tree turn rich yellow and red in autumn. Purplish red flowers bloom in spring before leaves emerge.
Green, red, bronze, purple, or variegated foliage creates a lacy effect on this shrub's twisted, arching branches. Leaves are deeply lobed and finely serrated. Red flower clusters bloom in mid spring. Attractive bark in winter.
Green, red, bronze, purple, or variegated foliage creates a lacy effect on this shrub's twisted, arching branches. Leaves are deeply lobed and finely serrated. Red flower clusters bloom in mid spring. Attractive bark in winter.
Its bright crimson leaves last all summer and turn scarlet in autumn. Too much or too little direct sun keeps them from having the best colour.
Its bright crimson leaves last all summer and turn scarlet in autumn. Too much or too little direct sun keeps them from having the best colour.
One of the most vigorous of the dissected Red leaf maples, it holds its deep purple-red leaf colour through summer.
One of the most vigorous of the dissected Red leaf maples, it holds its deep purple-red leaf colour through summer.
Named after a famous plant hunter, David Douglas, this shrubby maple, with striking, tooth-edged, 3-lobed leaves and dark scarlet shoots, deserves wider use. Mature branches are grey and grow densely.
Named after a famous plant hunter, David Douglas, this shrubby maple, with striking, tooth-edged, 3-lobed leaves and dark scarlet shoots, deserves wider use. Mature branches are grey and grow densely.
Difficult to find, this shrubby tree is popular for small landscape planting, containers and bonsai. The dense, crinkled, bright green leaves and thick, short twigs on the branches give it a stubby look.
It's prized for its striking maplelike leaves of deep green variegated with creamy yellow. Its orange bell-shaped flowers are veined in red and almost continually in bloom.
Non-stop bloom through summer and autumn make this one of the most popular species. 5cm daisy-like flowers bloom on shrubby, short-lived plants with fern-like foliage. Available with golden yellow, lemon yellow and soft yellow flowers. Propagate from base cuttings or by division in spring.
A small, yellow, daisy-like annual, use in edging, rock gardens and containers. Mat-like, 15 to 20cm plants are covered with 4cm flowers. Best in cool summer climates.
A 20 to 25cm, compact-growing annual, the 3.5cm white flowers with yellow centres smother deep green foliage all summer in cool climates.
The first American Marigold that doesnÆt need long days to set its flower buds. Blooms early in the season. Semi-dwarf plants have large carnation-like flowers.
Semi-dwarf plants have large, carnation-like flowers.
These semi-dwarf African Marigolds are strong, bushy plants with 9cm blooms. Plants arenÆt sensitive to daylight; they bloom early.
One of the earliest and most free-flowering French Marigolds, it has double-crested red and gold bicolour flowers.
Fully double and early flowering, these compact-growing plants flower in light yellow, orange, red, and striking yellow/red, and orange/red bicolours.
It has shiny rounded leaves and bright yellow flowers with many stamens and pistils.
Produces 2.5cm wide clusters of blooms that resemble large clover flowers.
In perfect conditions, this extremely fragrant dwarf is in full flower 7 to 9 weeks after seed is planted.
One of the most generous and early bloomers, æMidgetÆ has long-blooming, fully double-flower spikes on dwarf plants 20 to 25cm tall. Very heat tolerant.
This small palm grows slowly to 1.8 to 2.4m, so it's often grown in large pots. Its yellow flowers give way to hanging clusters of black fruits. Plant in full shade.
Leaves have a slightly orange flavour and are good for potpourris as well as flavourings.
This vigorous spreader quickly forms carpets of foliage. The leaves sometimes have bronze or purple variegation. Flowers are white or pink. Light green leaves show red or yellow in autumn; flower stalks grow to 30cm high.
Similar to the cultivar, 'Cambridge Scarlet.'
Mildew resistant, even in zones 8 and 9, it blooms bright pink.
A puzzle for even a monkey to climb, its horizontal branches are filled with sharp, stiff, glossy, dark green leaves. The hardiest Araucaria, its grey bark looks like elephant hide. Cones are 15cm long.
Leaves on slender trailing stems form a carpet of bright green. May choke out other plants if not cut back.
In late spring and early summer of its 2nd year, narrow flower spikes appear on plants 90cm to 1.2m tall x 60cm to 90cm wide.
This Grape HyacinthÆs bright blue flowers top 4- to 8- in stems.
An old-fashioned flower, this annual is one of the few plants with true blue flowers, unmixed with purple or red.
This compact plant has wine-coloured new leaves that turn dark green, and delicate, medium-pink flowers with white edges.
This compact plant has wine-coloured new leaves that turn dark green, and delicate, medium-pink flowers with white edges.
An excellent cut flower, it was held sacred to the Goddess of Love in ancient times. Aromatic, finely textured, deep green glossy leaves contrast with the fragrant white flowers. Berries are purplish-black.
Considered by some to be better than the classic æKing AlfredÆ daffodil, æDutch MasterÆ has long-lasting soft yellow flowers. Blossoms face upward. Early to mid-season bloom.
Blooms in rich, golden-yellow flowers with large, orange-red cups.
Bulbs donÆt need cold to bloom in clusters of 4 to 8 small, yellow, fragrant flowers with orange cups.
The many varieties have white and yellow flowers with contrasting white, yellow or orange centres. Each flower stalk produces many small flowers. ~~Excellent for naturalizing and containers.
Early blooming clusters of buttercup yellow flowers with yellow-orange cups make this one of the most popular miniature daffodils.
This seed mix produces fragrant, double and semi-double flowers in yellow, orange, apricot, bronze and red. Use flowers and leaves in salads. Naturalizes in warmer areas.
Similar to 'Golden Sword,' but it has variegated leaves.
Its masses of small, somewhat trumpet-shaped flowers bloom in every colour except green, with most flowers boasting multicolour petals.
Bred for compactness and non-stop blooming. Where hardy, replant each year to ensure maximum bloom.
Winner of the prestigious All-America Selection award and the Gold Medal from FleuroSelect, this variety smothers itself with yellow-eyed, bright white flowers all summer.
Clusters of white flowers, sometimes tinged pink, cover this dense, decidious, spreading, arching, shrub from spring to early summer. Leaves are broadly oval, toothed and lobed.
Its dark green needlelike leaves are spirally arranged on graceful branches in horizontal tiers. Branches grow in regularly spaced whorls. Reaches 30m outdoors and just 1.8m indoors.
Its dark green needlelike leaves are spirally arranged on graceful branches in horizontal tiers. Branches grow in regularly spaced whorls. Reaches 30m outdoors and just 1.8m indoors.
This pyramidal, round-headed tree has narrow, glossy, dark green leaves that are tinged bronze when young. Foliage hangs on late into winter.
For an oak, this is a fast grower. Conical when young, it rounds and spreads with age. Its dark bark has vertical stripes and ridges. The long, dark green, pointed leaves turn rich bright red in autumn.
One of the best of all medium-sized clumping grasses with finely textured, foliage forming a dense mound. Tiny, straw-coloured flowers rise 30 to 60cm in summer. Foliage lasts until early winter.
Smaller and less vigorous than others of the species, it grows fountain-like in borders or rock gardens. Flowers are purplish or pale green. Divide often to keep robust.
This tough plant, tolerant of poor soils and high salinity, is often planted along highways as a screen in the median strip. A wide selection of cultivars offer single to double flowers ranging from white to pink to red. Needs heat to bloom and thrive.
White, yellow, red or purple, 5 to 7.5cm wide flowers bloom April through summer on evergreen shrubs, which reach up to 6m tall.
The bulb of this pungent, strong-smelling onion reaches 10cm wide. Choose from numerous shapes and colours, such as white, yellow, brown or purple-red. Star-shaped, greenish white flowers appear in summer.
Grow this if you like onion flowers but not the onion smell. Less hardy than other onions, this Northern Italy native needs heavy mulch in cold climates. Starry blooms appear on 30 to 36cm high stems.
Grown for its looks, not its bulbs, use these nodding pink flowers with bluish-green leaves in masses.
The most common Peacock Orchid, it grows taller than the ordinary species and has crimson purple centres.
This ornamentalÆs many small rose or pink flowers held in airy sprays provide late colour. Shear stalks for second bloom. Leaves and shoots with a purple tinge when young and in Winter.
Tough and reliable, its fragrant, 7.5 to 12.5cm, lavender blue flowers have yellow beards. Bloom is late spring and early summer. Its rhizomes were used in perfumes. Reaches 60 to 90cm tall and wide.
Stemless, its grey-green leaves are 30 to 53cm long and needle-tipped. Branched spikes hold the drooping, bell-shaped flowers. Plant dies after bloom and seed production. Seeds produce new plants.
Compact types have fully double and semi-double flowers in orange and yellow. Flowers heavily in hot, dry climates and poor soil. Grown infrequently. The cultivars are a better buy.
Varieties include the popular H. scabra, a durable plant with fewer orange-yellow blooms than yellow-blooming, shade-tolerant H. helianthoides.
Creamy white sprays of small summer flowers grace this 15 to 24m tall by 4.5 to 6m wide palm.
The leaves of this Palm are 20 to 30cm long, made up of 3 to 10 narrow, glossy, somewhat puckered lobes in fan formation. In maturity, it forms clumps of thin, reedy stems.
Foliage looks like coarse leathery fronds made up of many pairs of leaflets. Prefers strong light with overhead shade.
Slow-growing and self-cleaning old leaves fall off and eliminate the need for pruning. Trunk swollen at the base. Bright green leaves form a dense crown.
This is the classic, large, handsome palm that lines tropical beaches throughout the world. Excellent for tropical beachfront property.
This fast-growing palm has long-stalked, grey-green, 1.8 to 2.7m long fronds in clusters around the crown. Reaches 9 to 15m tall. If potted, water freely in summer.
These elegant palms have slender, ringed stems and feather-shaped, arching leaves. Lavender to lilac purple sprays of small summer flowers are followed by large, egg-shaped red fruits.
A small, finely textured Palm with graceful arching fronds. An excellent container plant and houseplant. Won't tolerate dark locations.
Its multiple trunks have curving stems and spiny leaves that form picturesque clumps. Grows quickly with enough fertilization.
Fast-growing, often taller than the California Fan Palm, it has large, grey-green, fan-shaped leaves atop an erect trunk. Reaches 15m to 27m tall and 4.5 to 6m wide. In containers, water freely in summer.
Rich green, 90cm long leaves form a compact crown atop a trunk that thickens at the top. Fragrant, creamy yellow flowers appear in early summer. Heat tolerant, it won't endure prolonged freezing.
One of the most popular varieties, these robust intermediate-sized plants also have one of the most showy flowers.
This red variety is one of the most popular.
Soft and subtle salmon-pink flowers blend into a pastel colour scheme.
Used by ancient Egyptians for making paper, this graceful, 1.5 to 2.4m tall, water plant has stalks topped by tufts of 30 to 45cm long, thread-like leaves. Killed by frost, so take indoors or discard.
The hollow stems of this plant can be used in sweets, can flavour wines, or the celery-like leaves can be eaten. Dill-like greenish white flowers carried on tall, strong stems attract wasps and other beneficial insects. Cut off flower heads before seeds set or plants may die.
Silky, silvery leaves and brilliant flowers make this plant shimmer in sunlight. Feathery grey seed clusters look good even when plant is not in bloom. Best in cool, moist climates. Propagate from seed.
This small-to-medium early-flowering tree has rosette-shaped, semi-double flowers in deep burgundy.
Large, 11cm wide blooms flower early and frequently on 30 to 36cm tall plants.
With its many flowers and clearly zoned leaves, plant is compact and branching. The æOrbitÆ series offers the widest colour range of any series.
Unique among geraniums, its violet-purple to deep magenta-rose flowers complement distinctly marked leaves.
Fountains of fine, arching, bright green leaves rise 90cm to 1.2m. In summer, slender stems bloom in small, purple spikes.
Use in the front of flower borders where its red-bronze foliage and small white or pinkish flowers can be seen.
Some of the largest flowers among the Beard Tongues, their blooms have gaping mouths with a contrasting colour or intricate markings. All colours except blue and yellow. A perennial treated as an annual in cold climates.
A showy, drought-tolerant standby, it bears many spikes of nodding, tubular rose-red flowers.
Large, fragrant, single flowers have satiny, crinkled petals and dark green, narrow leaves. Support tall plants. Late frost may damage new growth.
Some other double, pink varieties to look for are æAlice HardingÆ (mid-season bloom) and æSarah BernhardtÆ (late-season bloom).
Some other double, red varieties to look for are æFelix SupremeÆ (mid-season bloom) and æBest ManÆ (late-season bloom).
Some other double, white varieties to look for are æHoney GoldÆ (mid-season bloom) and æLullabyÆ (late-season bloom).
This vigorous upright variety has long set the standard for Bell Peppers. Large, sweet, glossy, dark green fruits ripen to bright crimson. Fruits are ready 75 days from planting.
The hot spicy fruit, which point up, start white and later turn red. Leaves are deep green.
Thin-skinned and mild in flavour, the 15 to 18cm long fruit are excellent for a stir-fry. Fruit turn from green to dark red at maturity. Harvest 65 days from planting.
Good for tea, crushed leaves have the familiar peppermint scent.
The weeping branches have long, thin, leathery leaves that turn from bronze red to green when mature and produce a peppermint scent when crushed. Abundant white flowers start in late spring. Water moderately, but less in winter.
The curly type is the most popular and the most ornamental. Grow the large flat-leaf Italian or French types for the best flavour. The large leaves resemble those of celery. Another type, Hamburg parsley, is grown for its parsnip-like roots, which are eaten like a vegetable, and flavourful leaves.
Early flowering, compact-spreading plants bear single red flowers up to 10cm across. Weather tolerant and disease resistant. æUltraÆ series also comes in blue, purple, red, rose and salmon.
This All-America Selection winner has single, light-pink, white-centreed flowers. Heat- and rain-tolerant, plants in the æCelebrityÆ series bloom in a wide range of colours.
An All-America Selection winner with large 10cm, single, ruffled flowers of light purple with delicate, darker purple veins. Other varieties in pink, blue, purple, and bicolour.
Solid red and magenta with white frilled edges make this variety great as an accent or for contrast.
An All-America Selection winner with large 10cm, single, ruffled flowers of deep blue with a bold white-striped pattern. Other varieties bloom in pink, blue, silvery purple, and a bicolour of purple flowers with red veins.
This classic Phlox flowers earlier than other varieties with dome-shaped, quarter-sized cherry- to deep red flowers. A high maintenance plant, it likes full sun but cool temperatures and requires rich, moist soil. To discourage mildew, deadhead and thin.
This classic Phlox features quarter-sized flowers. Deadhead and thin to discourage mildew. Requires rich, moist soil and likes full sun, but cool temperatures.
Shade tolerant, its dense, low carpets with lavender-blue flowers and glossy leaves are excellent in woodland gardens or narrow planting strips. Other varieties bloom in white, pink and purple.
In spring, the vigorous, moss-like foliage explodes into a large, solid mass of bluish-lavender flowers. Use on hillsides or cascading over retaining walls. Needs full sun.
Plant in full sun on hillsides or cascading over retaining walls. The vigorous, moss-like foliage produces a large, solid mass of dark pink, almost red flowers in spring.
The mat-forming, needle-like foliage is 15cm tall and has a mossy look. April to May, itÆs covered with tiny, honey-scented, bright red flowers. Each stem bears 3 to 5 blooms.
A large, solid mass of white flowers appears in spring. Needs full sun. Great for hillsides or cascading over retaining walls. Leaves pale green.
A carpet of colour in spring! Bright pink, honey-scented flowers cover this Alpine plant from April to May. Its moss-like, needle-shaped green foliage on 15cm tall creeping stems spreads to 90cm wide.
This shade-loving creeper blooms in spring with lightly fragrant, bluish lavender flowers with a maroon eye. Use as a ground cover in borders or woodland gardens. Needs moisture.
This popular Western hedge can be trained as a single-trunked small tree or multi-trunked shrub. Often used next to walkways and patios, it has no berries to stain concrete or create cleanup problems.
An all white variety, similar to the House Hybrids.
Its neat form and blue-green colour make it a good tree to feature in a big lawn or garden. Slender, 15 to 20cm long, pendulous, needlelike leaves give a soft effect. Cold tolerant, it does poorly in hot, dry areas.
This evergreen has a loose, pyramidal outline with branches feathered to the ground. Its foliage is dark green. The thin grey or greying brown bark peels in irregular flakes exposing reddish brown beneath.
Slow-growing, this bushy evergreen conifer has dark green foliage. Its green bark flakes to reveal creamy yellow patches darkening to brownish. Reaches 9 to 15m tall and 6 to 10.5m wide.
Slow-growing, this bushy evergreen conifer has dark green foliage. Its green bark flakes to reveal creamy yellow patches darkening to brownish. Reaches 9 to 15m tall and 6 to 10.5m wide.
Broad, open and round-topped with age, its slow growth and dense, regular foliage make it good for small gardens. A Northwest and Rocky Mountain favourite, it resists white pine blister and rust.
Multiple trunks growing from the base of this picturesque tree make its spread greater than its height. The reddish colour of older branches adds to its exotic effect. Use in containers and rock and in oriental gardens.
Grown since colonial times, this favourite has bluish grey foliage and single or double flowers in red, pink or white. Used to create modern hybrids such as 'Agatha,' 'White Lady,' and seed strains 'Sonata' and 'Spring Beauty.
This bicolour Cheddar Pink has red and white flowers rising above a tight mound of blue-green, grass-like foliage. Best in well-drained, sandy soil.
A heat-tolerant, All-America Selection, its crimson flowers are edged with white. Also available in rose, red, purple and carmine. Tolerates frost even in northern climates.
This medium-sized hybrid has pure white, double flowers.
The many, deeply fringed flowers are single to semi-double and bloom in pink, white, salmon and red flowers.
Its double, red flowers are nice for the front of flower borders. Best in well-drained, sandy soil.
Spikes of white, rosy pink or lavender flowers rise above long, toothed, pointed leaves. Stake tall stems. Control by digging up spreading clumps and cutting to the ground after flowering.
This has the deepest red colour of all seed-grown Rhubarb. Seed-grown plants have variations among seedlings and take longer to produce, but this is the least expensive way to grow many vigorous plants. Only stalks are edible, so discard poisonous leaf blade.
This large-grower bears rosettes of red-edged green leaves on strong, unbranched stems. In spring, compact heads of small flowers reach 30 to 60cm long. New stems sprout from the plant's base.
Early-season blooming on robust heavily branched plants. Performs well in cooler climates.
Considered by some the most beautiful hardy plant in cultivation, it offers dwarf, semi-double and double forms. Use in rockeries. Requires no special care and lasts in the same spot for more than 20 years.
The tall, easily cut stalks need staking.
This round-headed tree's leaves are red when young and purple when mature. Early spring flowers of white or light pink arrive just before leaves unfold. Edible yellow or reddish fruit isn't tasty.
The deep green leaves turn yellow or red on this 1.5m shrub, then drop fast after a frost. Stems usually die back with hard frost. Grows well in poor soil.
In warmer climates, this hard-working perennial blooms anywhere in spikes that change from yellow to red. Purchase in bloom to be sure of the colour.
These spiky flowers are a uniform primrose-yellow.
Upright perennials with sword shaped, dark green foliage. Summer and autumn, bright red, tubular flower clusters appear, several per plant. The bold flower spikes stand straight as a poker on plants 46 to 90cm tall. Good cut flowers.
Stems reach up to 90cm tall and bear up to 30 fragrant white, single or double waterlily-like blossoms. Flowers open sequentially, giving a very long flowering season.
The fragrant blooms of the "Queen of the California Wildflowers" can be 23cm wide. Its crepe-like white petals and yellow centre give it the look of a large fried egg. Competitive with less vigorous plants.
Low-growing, trailing mats of stems with tiny, bright green leaves are covered with bowl-shaped flowers in yellow, red, orange, pink or white in summer through early autumn.
This hybrid produces more double flowers than other varieties.
Growing in bogs and swamps, it spreads by creeping stems. Erect branches have flowers with dark red calyx that extend beyond the flower petals.
Blooms in pink, red, and white in late spring. Self-sows to form sizable colonies.
Masses of pink flowers cover this invasive ground cover during the summer. Plants spread by seed and underground rhizomes. Prune back hard or use a lawnmower to cut it back to ground level.
One of the most beautiful varieties, its elegant, lemon-yellow flowers, which grow up to 12.5cm wide, are followed by winged seed pods. Good in rock gardens.
A most unusual perennial type. The ends of the pointy flower spikes have unopened brick-red flowers at the top, while the opened flowers below are lilac. It seldom lives longer than 1 or 2 years.
One of the most popular types, it has large individual flowers in big flower heads in a wide range of colours.
A wide variety of intense colours in early spring make this a favourite with West Coast gardeners in cooler areas.
The foliage on this easy-to-grow shrub is golden-yellow.
The æLovelinessÆ series is more refined than others and blooms in purple, pink and white.
The rust-red to wine-purple flowers have subtle and mysterious beauty that must be seen close up.
Star-shaped flowers range from light to deep blue with each petal centre-striped in deep blue. White varieties are also available.
Hybrids such as æPicoteeÆ are edged in a second colour. Plant with an eye toward colour combinations with other plants. All have very large, double, ruffled flowers.
Flowers in the æSunsetÆ series come in warm apricot-orange tones. æSunset OrangeÆ is a fully double, deep-orange.
A single tuber produces dozens of flowers 7.5 to 12.5cm across. Regular cutting promotes bloom. Plant in Daffodil beds as Ranunculus flowers later.
This white-flowering type naturalizes easily, especially in poor, alkaline or chalky soils and along walls and paving.
Grey-green foliage covers these conical to broadly columnar trees. Leaves are aromatic when bruised. Produces silver berries. Prune or shear to shape. Suceptible to cedar apple rust and bagworms.
This highly desirable grass is planted for its strong vertical lines. Feathery brownish-yellow flowers turn grey in autumn. Non-invasive. A naturally occuring sterile hybrid.
These deep rosy-pink flowers with hints of purple are perfect for flower borders. Long-blooming. Available in white and cream.
This dwarf evergreen blooms in masses of purplish blue flowers from early to late spring. Reaches 46 to 60cm tall and 60 to 90cm wide.
Low growing, spreading, mat forming perennial. Forms loose mat with succulent, soft, whitish green leaves and prolific, fragrant white flowers with yellow stamens in late spring and early summer. 6-9" tall, 8-12" wide. Cut plants back after flowering. Cover with leaves when ground freezes.
This low, mat-forming plant flowers in spring and thrives where summers are cool. Stays in bloom longer than the common Wall Rock Cress (A. Caucasia) but is harder to find.
The striking leaves, deeply veined and tinted with bronzy purple, resemble those of the horse chestnut tree. In summer, tall flower stems of cream to pink flowers rise above the foliage. Excellent for bog gardens and near pools.
10cm wide, lemon-scented double flowers grace this low-growing, vigorous shrub. Mauve-lavender blooms appear in spring and again in autumn, with scattered bloom throughout.
The simple beauty of wild roses comes alive with this plant's breezy clusters of single, 5 to 7.5cm wide, pink flowers. Blooms profusely in spring with scattered flowers until autumn. Moderately fragrant.
Available as a bush and or climbing form, its cupped, fully double, white flowers reach 7.5cm across.
Available as a bush and or climbing form, its cupped, fully double, white flowers reach 7.5cm across.
Pink, miniature hybrid tea-like blooms grow on this tall, vigorous, upright shrub. The double, 5 to 7.5cm wide flowers open in spring, with a slight tea fragrance, and continue intermittently through autumn.
Double, 10cm flowers with deep, yellow petals of Gold Medal are burnished with red all season. The shrub is vigorous, upright and medium to tall. If unavailable, special order from your nursery.
Its large, lightly fragrant flowers are coppery orange and bloom well all season. The vigorous, upright shrub is medium to tall. May have to be special ordered.
The richly fragrant blossoms have white petals edged with red. This upright grower is of low to medium height. If unavailable, special order from your nursery.
The slightly fragrant, pinkish-mauve flowers have a subtle beauty. Plant with other soft colours. Blooms throughout the growing season on a tall, vigorous, upright shrub
The classic long-stemmed red rose,this deep carmine bestseller has a rich fragrance. Blooms well all season on a medium to tall, upright shrub. Widely available.
One of the best red Hybrid Teas available because its rich, velvety, brilliant crimson color doesnÆt fade. Blooms all season on a vigorous, medium to tall upright shrub. Widely available.
Its rich gold colour and exquisitely shapely petal arrangement makes it stand out among yellow Hybrid Teas. Blooms abundantly in late spring with scattered flowers until autumn on the low to medium tall upright shrub. Widely available.
Combine it carefully with other plants to show off the fragrant, unusual flowers of silvery lilac with ruby edges. This vigorous, medium to tall, upright shrub blooms well all season.
This famous Rose celebrates the end of World War II. The large, soft yellow flowers have a shade of pink. This tall, vigorous upright shrub blooms well all season. Available as a climber.
This Rugosa has pink, 5cm wide, wild-looking double flowers with serrated petal edges, deeply veined leathery leaves, and fruits called hips. Easy to grow and good for cutting. No scent. Blooms in spring with scattered flowers until autumn. If unavailable, check rose catalogs.
An elegant rose, the prolific flowers are ivory with subtle pink shading. Blooms well all season. This vigorous shrub is medium to tall and has contrasting dark stems.
The exquisite, ice-pink flowers are beautiful in bouquets and in the garden. The tea-scented blooms appear all season on an upright, vigorous, medium to tall shrub. Widely available. Resists powdery mildew.
With its five petaled flowers, it resembles wild roses. Its silky flowers show in spring and autumn with scattered bloom in between. The low, bushy shrub is widely available.
The full, old-fashioned-looking silvery pink flowers are very fragrant and bloom all season on a low- to medium-sized upright shrub. Long, strong stems. Widely available.
One of the most fragrant Hybrid Teas, its 12.5 15cm, deep coral orange flowers bloom abundantly on medium to tall, vigorous, upright shrubs. Plant with compatible colours. If unavailable, check rose catalogs.
The 15 to 38cm dark purple spikes open from the top down and make good cut or dried flowers. Blooms early to mid-summer. Plant reaches 46 to 64cm tall.
Tough and easy-to-grow, its lustrous, leathery leaves form a low, dense mound. Lenten Roses have flowers at Easter, though bloom begins in early spring.
Yellowish, pendant flowers with brown-spotted throats and a large lower lip hang from slender, 60 to 90cm flower stalks.
A popular autumn bloomer, its purple flowers are 10cm across. Each corm produces as many as 6 flowers. Pink, white and double, rose-coloured flowers also available.
One of the showiest Artemisias, it blooms in creamy yellow flowers from late summer to autumn. Its silvery grey, narrow leaves on whitish stems are covered with fine white hair. Reaches 60cm to 1.2m tall and wide.
Still one of the most important herbs in Western cooking, its lavender or purple flowers attract bees. Some types have variegated leaves with yellow, pink or white splashes. Others have larger, rounded leaves, or tiny miniature leaves.
A favourite annual for its intense spikes of violet-blue flowers, which bloom from early summer through autumn. Varieties are available with silvery white flowers and in dwarf form.
This perennial is often grown as an annual, though it's hardy to 10░F. Its spikes of small blue flowers poke above greyish green leaves. Dwarf, white and bluer flowering forms available.
Still one of the most important herbs in Western cooking. This variety has leaves tinged with purple. When in bloom, its lavender flowers attract bees.
Use this West Coast native for beach planting. It becomes unkempt with age, and is usually treated as a short-lived perennial. Low-growing 'David's Choice' is good for rock gardens and edging perennial borders.
Glowing white leaves make this a great silver foliage plant. Use the late summer foliage and plumes of flowers in dried or fresh flower arrangements.
This densely-branched, twiggy plant has coarse, crinkled leaves on prickly stems. Small, papery flowers open yellow and change to orange or red. Blooms followed by black berries.
Its bright bluish purple flower spikes mix beautifully with flower border plants, such as yellow Yarrow and white BabyÆs Breath. Blooms longest in areas with cool nights. The masses of flowers attract bees and hummingbirds.
Large, dense spikes of rich, violet flowers rise from green, pungent, leathery leaves. Low growing.
Has a more delicate flavour than Winter Savory. Replace this annual each year.
The most popular pincushion flower, especially with florists, it has large, lacy flowers up to 7.5cm wide. Colors include white and blue. Prefer cool summers.
Lower-growing than the cut flower types, stems are still long enough for cutting. From mound of foliage bloom 4cm wide flowers. Shear back old flowers and more appear all summer.
Lower growing than the cut-flower types, unusual 4cm wide pink flowers arise on stems long enough for cutting. Shear old flower heads for blooms all summer.
Although it's considered a weedy, yellow-flowered pest in some areas, less aggressive, compact types are available. Bicoloured selections bloom red and yellow, scarlet and cream or orange and apricot.
Pairs of fragrant, tubular to bell-shaped greenish-white flowers with green tips cluster below white-edged leaves.
In late summer, clusters of star-shaped, densely clustered, iridescent, ruby-red flowers top Succulent-like, 30cm tall stems with rich blue-green leaves.
Its many stout stems are topped by domelike flower heads which start out green and transform to pink then bronze. Cut old flower stalks to the ground.
This evergreen shrub has leathery grey-green leaves outlined in silver-white with white beneath. Its masses of yellow flower clusters contrast nicely with the foliage. Good cut flowers. Prune yearly.
The small, purplish bronze, young leaves on this narrow tree or shrub turn dark green in summer and brilliant red, yellow and orange in autumn. Dangling clusters of white flowers are followed by fleshy, sweet, berrylike, dark purple fruits.
The small, purplish bronze, young leaves on this narrow tree or shrub turn dark green in summer and brilliant red, yellow and orange in autumn. Dangling clusters of white flowers are followed by fleshy, sweet, berrylike, dark purple fruits.
The large white flowers, tinged pink as buds, appear in spring on this fast-growing, spreading tree or large shrub. Its purplish, downy young leaves turn dark green in summer and brilliant red-orange in autumn. Fleshy fruits are red.
The large white flowers, tinged pink as buds, appear in spring on this fast-growing, spreading tree or large shrub. Its purplish, downy young leaves turn dark green in summer and brilliant red-orange in autumn. Fleshy fruits are red.
This multistemmed, large shrub or small tree grows quickly to 4.5 to 7.5m tall and 12m wide. Leaves turn brilliant red in autumn.
This multistemmed, large shrub or small tree grows quickly to 4.5 to 7.5m tall and 12m wide. Leaves turn brilliant red in autumn.
This spreading, multistemmed large shrub or small tree has a rounded crown and many small branches. Its leaves mature to dark green, turning yellow, orange or red in autumn. Fruits change from green to red to purplish black in mid summer.
This spreading, multistemmed large shrub or small tree has a rounded crown and many small branches. Its leaves mature to dark green, turning yellow, orange or red in autumn. Fruits change from green to red to purplish black in mid summer.
The new leaves on this rounded, shrubby plant are red-tinged. They mature to dark, glossy green, turning rich, orange-red in autumn.
The new leaves on this rounded, shrubby plant are red-tinged. They mature to dark, glossy green, turning rich, orange-red in autumn.
Similar to the species, A. grandiflora, but with brilliant red autumn colour. Reaches 7.5m tall and 4.5 to 6m wide.
Similar to the species, A. grandiflora, but with brilliant red autumn colour. Reaches 7.5m tall and 4.5 to 6m wide.
This dense, multistemmed shrub has oval, finely toothed, greyish new leaves that mature to deep green and turn yellow and red in autumn. Flowers are followed by purplish black, rounded, juicy, sweet fruits.
Although individual blooms last only a day, each stalk produces many flowers over several weeks. Showy, 7.5cm to 15cm wide flowers.
Forms a mound of intense, silver-grey, satiny, fernlike, finely and deeply cut leaves. In summer, small, rounded, pale yellow flowers appear. 15-24" tall and wide.
Its dark purple leaves, which stay through summer when other varieties turn green, show off purplish blooms. Spectacular autumn colour.
Its dark purple leaves, which stay through summer when other varieties turn green, show off purplish blooms. Spectacular autumn colour.
An old favourite, this variety has reddish brown flowers with prominent centres with tints of orange as they fade.
Its many white double blooms make excellent cut flowers. Spreads rapidly, and in good soils, sometimes too far. Dry leaves and roots have been used as a snuff, giving it its common name.
One of the hardiest Yuccas, it has a short, prostrate trunk. Its leaves are nearly 90cm long with whitish margins. The greenish white flowers are 5cm wide.
One of the best medium-sized eggplants, it produces oval, purple fruits with glossy skin. Harvest fruits when 15cm long, about 60 days from transplanting.
Harvest this oriental-type Eggplant 61 days after transplant. Its dark purple, cucumber-like fruit grow to 30cm long and 5cm in diameter. A perennial grown as an annual. All parts of plant are toxic, except the eggplant fruit.
A popular, early season potato with white flesh. Excellent for baking, boiling and french fries. High yielding, but potatoes donÆt store well. A perennial grown as an annual.
Use the aromatic, thread-like leaves as a moth repellent or burn them on the stove to kill cooking odors. Cut back severely to keep it from getting weedy.
The stems on this slow-growing shrub or small tree top 1.8m tall. Its deep green, slender leaves reach 50 to 76cm long. Purple-tinted white flowers appear summer to autumn.
Use the most commonly grown mint fresh or dried. Prune its small flowers because they weaken the stem. Evergreen in mild climates.
Its foliage creeps along the ground sending up 30cm, vibrant, gentian blue flower spikes. For the front of flower borders, in rock gardens or as edging.
Tall and suitable for the middle of flower borders. Its lavender blue flowers blend with any colour scheme.
Valued for its greyish leaves and slender, 15cm flower spikes with porcelain-blue blooms, its a fine edging plant. Stems are white and wooly.
The magnificent, large flowers are orchid-pink or lavender.
One of the best, with large reddish-magenta flowers.
Its tall purple flower spikes make it suitable for stately perennial borders or wild gardens and meadows. Excellent fresh or dried flowers.
Varieties of spinach have either smooth or crinkled leaves. Savoy types with crinkled leaves are more difficult to clean. Harvest individual leaves or entire plants. A cool-season annual.
Similar to 'Bridal Veil', but summer flowers bloom creamy white on 60cm sturdy stems.
Similar to A. arendsii, but with deep red flowers and bronzy leaves.
Similar to A. arendsii, but with deep pink flowers.
Its several low-growing cultivars are more often grown than the species. Reaching 60 to 90cm tall, shrubs produce rosy to pink flowers. Leaves emerge red or bronze, maturing to shades of green.
This shrub leafs out in spring and has fernlike leaves made up of many sharp-toothed leaflets. Forms thickets by suckers. Flower clusters grow to a foot long. Gives a lush, tropical effect when watered. Blooms on new wood.
Its stout red shoots hold the small, rounded, dark green leaves until late autumn. Varieties with compact forms and more profuse flowers are available.
Small, dark blue-green leaves are excellent background for many clusters of small, white, early summer flowers. Easy care. To renew leggy plants, cut plant to ground in spring. Easy to transplant.
Deciduous or semi evergreen,this dense shrub has a spreading shape and is twiggy. The clusters of white flowers appear from early to mid spring. Reaches 90cm to 1.5m tall and wide.
This dwarf can be spreading or conical. Leaves are grey-blue.
This dwarf has longer leaves and smaller cones than species. It grows slowly to 2.1m in 35 years so it makes an excellent container plant, long-lived Christmas tree or small formal pyramid tree.
This ornamental spruce makes an excellent lawn tree, especially in the Rocky Mountains. Most are densely branched all the way to the ground.
This wide spreading, prostrate Spruce has downward-arching, light blue-green foliage that creeps over the landscape. Use in rock gardens, as an evergreen ground cover or oddity container plant.
This wide spreading, prostrate Spruce has downward-arching, light blue-green foliage that creeps over the landscape. Use in rock gardens, as an evergreen ground cover or oddity container plant.
This wide spreading, prostrate Spruce has downward-arching, light blue-green foliage that creeps over the landscape. Use in rock gardens, as an evergreen ground cover or oddity container plant.
Train this ground-hugging Norway Spruce up a sturdy stake to form an upright weeping mound. Or use in rock gardens, containers or trailing over walls or rocks.
Train this ground-hugging Norway Spruce up a sturdy stake to form an upright weeping mound. Or use in rock gardens, containers or trailing over walls or rocks.
Train this ground-hugging Norway Spruce up a sturdy stake to form an upright weeping mound. Or use in rock gardens, containers or trailing over walls or rocks.
A smooth, buff-coloured, bottle-shaped Squash, 20 to 30cm long. It has sweet, bright orange flesh. Excellent for baking. Keeps well over winter.
The many varieties have straight, yellow fruit. Popular ones include æChefiniÆ and æSeneca.Æ
Clusters of fragrant, white or creamy white, 2.5 to 5cm wide flowers with shiny black centres bloom in early summer on 30 to 45cm tall plants. Likes dry summer soil. O. umbellatum, which can become invasive, has the same common name.
Huge flower heads up to 30cm wide look good even in winter, and are lovely in dried arrangements. Leaves may die before flowers appear.
Grown commercially as a cut flower, its tidy habit recommends it for rock gardens, as edging or in the front of flower borders.
Its lavender-blue flowers bloom up to 12.5cm across. Divide for new plants in spring.
A native of Lebanon, similar to A. grandiflorum but half the size, this plant has smaller, cross-shaped pink flowers in 2.5cm clusters on neat, rounded mounds of bluish green evergreen foliage.
This upright, larger-growing stonecress is good in flower borders. Pink flower clusters grow up to 7.5cm long. Leaves are greyish green.
From spreading clumps, its succulent stems bloom in clusters of tiny, star-shaped flowers. Flowers start pink, deepen to dark salmon and end rosy red. Plump grey-green leaves turn rich blue-green in late summer.
With beautiful, reddish bark and shiny, evergreen leaves, this tree looks good year round. Winter flowers precede strawberry-like (but tasteless) fruit. Drought and mostly disease-resistant, substitute it for Madrone.
Varieties of this Australian native come in seed mixes with flowers ranging from bright hot colours to soft pastels.
For winter colour, the 9cm wide, heartshaped leaves turn red. It has no stolons and is slower to spread.
The largest Sumac, its branches are covered with short, brown hairs, like 'velvet' on deer's antlers. The fuzzy, crimson fruit lasts all winter. Tolerates extreme heat and cold. Won't tolerate alkaline soils.
The largest Sumac, its branches are covered with short, brown hairs, like 'velvet' on deer's antlers. The fuzzy, crimson fruit lasts all winter. Tolerates extreme heat and cold. Won't tolerate alkaline soils.
Best known for the 3m tall type, with 20 to 36cm wide flowers full of seeds eaten roasted or raw. These annual plants also come 45cm to 1.2m. high, with 2 to 3 wide yellow blooms with brown or purplish centres or double, 12.5 to 18cm wide yellow flowers. Stake as needed. May be invasive.
Good for native and dry gardens, the Oregon Sunflower bears flowers up to 10cm across on tall stems. Triangle-shaped leaves at its base have thick, white down underneath when young.
Early settlers used the fernlike leaves of this native shrub to make a tea. Spreads to form colonies.
Shorter and slower growing than the species. Grows white-striped leaves that add interest to small water gardens and ponds, especially amid water lilies and water hyacinths.
Blooms in early summer when not much else is flowering. Red autumn colour. An award-winning variety, 'Henry's Garnet,' has brilliant purplish red autumn colour and excellent flowers.
Its long, narrow, dark blue-green leaves are used for seasoning meats, soups and stews. Harvest branch tips when the plants are 30cm tall. Just before the first heavy frost, harvest the entire plant. Use leaves fresh, or freeze them.
Use the strong, fresh or dried leaves sparingly to add an anise-like flavour to vinegar, mayonnaise and French dishes. Harvest branch tips on 30cm high plants, and finish before first frost.
This eastern United States native is the cold-hardiest of all Ceanothus. Its fluffy white flowers aren't fragrant. Won't transplant.
California's most popular Dusty Miller attracts bees. Above finely divided felty, white leaves, it sometimes produces purple flowers. Deadhead after bloom. Drought-tolerant. Don't overwater.
Its finely-cut, narrow, light-green leaves are greyish below and can reach lengths upto 60cm Unstaked stems may flop over with the weight of the 5 to 7.5cm wide flowers.
Its blue-green foliage is topped by stiff stems that carry masses of pink, lilac or white summer flowers.
Tall and dense, with dark green foliage that lasts through the winter.
Tall and dense, with dark green foliage that lasts through the winter.
A small shrubby plant which is both ornamental and edible, in may be used in rock and herb gardens and as a low edging. The tiny chartreuse leaves have a lime-like flavour.
Small, upright branches with minute, aromatic green leaves form mats 5 to 15cm tall. Purple or white flower clusters bloom in summer.
This All-America Selection winner offers large, beefsteak-type fruit which ripen early. Produces well in adverse conditions, with fruit maturing 73 days after transplant. Resists verticillium, fusarium, nematodes and some leaf spots.
Better than æSweet 100,Æ its extra-sweet, 2.5cm fruits resist verticillium and fusarium. Each plant produces hundreds of tomatoes higher in vitamin C than most. Plants bear in 65 days.
The lower parts of the deep green, 30cm long, straplike leaves wrap around the stems for a coarse grass look. Grows in a tangled sprawl. Flowers usually purple, but may be white, blue, pink or red.
New foliage is bronze purple; flowers are yellow.
Large, globe-like, lemon-yellow flowers from May to July. Long-lived, plants reach 38 to 46cm tall and wide.
This rapid grower will cover almost anything with foliage and small clusters of trumpet-shaped, bright yellow flowers. Its toothed, glossy, dark green leaflets have downy undersides. Dry woody pods that last all winter follow flowers.
This vigorous vine is prized for its trumpet-shaped flowers, which last over a long season, and its glossy, dark, evergreen leaves. Climbs trellises and arbors by tendrils, though needs support for walls.
This vigorous climber has lots of showy flowers, orange-yellow speckled white on the throat, up to 12.5cm across. Leaves are thick and leathery.
With full sun and excellent drainage, this tulip does well in warm winter climates. A dwarf species, its pale lilac flowers have a yellow blotch at the base. Each stem produces 1 to 4 scented flowers, 4 to 6cm long, tapered at the base. Flowers open nearly flat.
A classic Darwin Tulip with distinct yellow and red markings.
These salmon-rose flowers with a hint of red bloom mid-season. Mendel tulips are generally daintier than Darwin tulips. You can force bulbs to bloom in winter by starting them indoors.
Said to be the darkest flowering hybrid ever produced, the single flowers are a deep, velvety maroonùvery nearly black. Blooms in late spring on sturdy stems, and lasts long.
This lily-flowered variety with red flowers is edged in golden yellow.
This is a popular, early blooming, dwarf Greigii tulip with scarlet cup-shaped flowers and mottled leaves.
Seen in paintings by the Old Masters such as Rembrandt, these multi-coloured tulips are striped, streaked or blotched in contrasting colours. Weak stemmed, so plant in a protected area. Mixed colouring used to be due to a contagious virus. Tulips now sold as Rembrandts are multi-colour due to genetic, not viral origin.
Mats of narrow foliage give rise to clouds of tiny single or double flowers. Shear after flowering for a second round of blooms.
Its long, pointed leaves look like umbrella spokes. Invasive in pools. Yellowish spring blooms. Smaller Nanus, or Gracilis, is better outdoors. Variegatus has white-striped leaves and stems.
This desert plant thrives in hot and dry conditions. Blooms almost continuously in mild winter climates. Easily started from seed. Plant outside in spring or autumn.
This bushy, vigorous, 20 to 30cm tall creeper is grown as an annual. Clusters of small, bright, tubular flowers in white, red, pink, yellow or purple bloom through summer until frost.
One of the earliest blooming and most generous flowerers of the Annual Verbenas, these dwarf, compact spreading plants become covered with blooms. Colors include red, white, rose and purple and bicolour flowers with purple and red eyes. Perennial in warm climates
This creeping, shiny leaved Speedwell has blue flowers that appear in the spring, then on and off again until autumn. Easy to grow.
Its blue-black fruits have been used in preserves since colonial times. Excellent barrier, screen or small tree. Popular in the North, used instead of Hawthorns. More resistant to pests. Red autumn colour.
Its blue-black fruits have been used in preserves since colonial times. Excellent barrier, screen or small tree. Popular in the North, used instead of Hawthorns. More resistant to pests. Red autumn colour.
Glossy deep green leaves contrast with white flower clusters on this low-growing foundation shrub. Need male plants for females to produce metallic blue fruits. Prefers partial shade and acid soil.
Excellent for colour in shady areas, its red fruit turns purple-black. Leaves turn orange, red and purple in autumn.
Its long-lasting bright red fruits give this 1.8m to 3m tall shrub outstanding autumn character. White flower clusters bloom in May against bright green leaves.
Developed for maximum flowering even in mild, cool summer areas, it produces formal-looking masses of white flowers with red centres. Blooms are 6cm wide.
Black flowers generate interest and curiosity. Many such pansies are available, including æKing of the Black,Æ æJet BlackÆ and æBlack Devil.Æ All have deep purple tints. Cut flowers to prolong bloom.
An All-America Selection winner, its white flowers have deep-to light-rose centres.
A prized modern hybrid, this pansy is an All-America Selection winner. Named after the rare orange sapphire from Sri Lanka, its flowers seem to glow and sparkle.
This viola's large reddish flowers are distinctive from other varieties.
One of North AmericaÆs most popular, generously flowering, bedding pansies, it offers 18 colour combinations. DoesnÆt survive winter as well as other varieties.
Perennials often grown as annual. Small, flat-faced, fragrant flowers, pale to deep purplish-blue, and occasionally white flowers, in spring and much of summer.
Wood from its straight trunk is highly prized by woodworkers. Its thick furrowed bark becomes nearly black with age. Harvest the sweet, oily nuts in autumn.
This spreading shrub or small tree makes a bushy screen that tolerates most growing conditions. Round clusters of golden yellow flowers open above the long green leaves.
This spreading shrub or small tree makes a bushy screen that tolerates most growing conditions. Round clusters of golden yellow flowers open above the long green leaves.
Golden-yellow beans are colourful in soups, salads and stews. Varieties such as æSunraeÆ produce extra early fruit and heavy yields.
This native tree blooms earlier than the Chinese species, C. retusus, and has larger flower clusters.
This native tree blooms earlier than the Chinese species, C. retusus, and has larger flower clusters.
This North American wildflower grows in clumps up to 60cm high. The willow-like leaves turn yellow in autumn. Cut back stems if growth gets too loose and open.
The gnarled and contorted, grey-brown twigs and stems twist and spiral like a corkscrew. Use branches in dried arrangements. Slender bright green leaves turn yellow in autumn.
Vigorous-growing, hardy and tough, its olive green leaves turn bright yellow in autumn. Its rounded top reaches 21m tall.
It forms a dense columnar pyramid of branches down to the ground. Shiny bright green foliage is coarser than other types. Keeps its colour during winter months. Bark is reddish to greyish brown.
Plant this, one of the most fragrant witch hazels, next to walks or entrances where its scent and bright flowers can be enjoyed. Branches form strong, horizontal patterns.
Its dense masses of 7.5 to 15cm long, heart-shaped, green leaves are often splashed with creamy white and pink. The cup-shaped, white flowers turn to edible yellow fruits on the female vines.
Bright pink flowers rise above a compact mound of dark green foliage.
Its mat of woolly greenish grey leaves and pale yellow flowers fills the nooks and crannies of a rock garden, or neatly edges a perennial border.
Large clusters of sulfur-yellow flowers rise above deeply cut, silvery-grey foliage. Needs well-drained soils and may be short-lived in humid southern climates.
Bright yellow flowers rise above grey-green leaves. It has excellent flower colour and strong flower stems. Combine with Red-hot Pokers, Delphiniums or Shasta Daisies.
This medium-sized tree to large shrub has not typical form. It is normally pyramidal, but its shape varies. Flat, needle-lick, dark green leaves appear on olive-green shoots. Prune 60cm to 6m tall and wide.
This medium-sized tree to large shrub has not typical form. It is normally pyramidal, but its shape varies. Flat, needle-lick, dark green leaves appear on olive-green shoots. Prune 60cm to 6m tall and wide.
Upright and pyramidal in form, this dense spreading shrub or tree can have one or several trunks. Slow growing to 3 to 7.5m tall. Tolerates dry and shady conditions. Produces a lot of fruit.
This 60 to 90cm tall shrub spreads slowly, making rosettes of leaves with sharp tips and curly white fibers on the edges. Summer clusters of tulip-shaped white flowers are followed by large woody fruits.
This member of this popular species has yellow variegated leaves and 5 to 7.5cm wide flower spikes. Does well in parts of the southern and Northern U.S.
An All-America Selection of Super Sweet has ears with 20cm creamy white kernels. Just 80 to 88 days from planting to maturity.
Its rhizomes are the source of the condiment ginger. They grow in a cone-like cluster with overlapping bracts. Flowers are yellow-green with purple lips marked in cream.
Once rare, this is a white-flowering variety of the narrow-leaved Zinnia.
Narrow-leaved zinnia have single, long-lasting, 2.5cm flowers on stems. Star-shaped flowers with petal tips of darker orange cover plants from summer to early autumn.
There are a variety of Z. elegans, from giants to dwarfs, with daisy- or dahlia-like flowers from 2.5 to 18cm across in a rainbow of colours and bicolours. 'Rose Pinwheel' is a hybrid resistant to mildew.
An All-America Selection winner, this super-dwarf grows 15cm tall with bloom beginning when only 7.5cm tall. The many single and semi-double flowers are 3cm across.
Popular and prolific producer, varieties include glossy green, golden, grey or dark green fruits. Grow winter-producing types in mild winter areas. Forms mounding bushes, 90cm to 1.2m wide. Pick when 15 to 20cm long or when no new fruit appears.
