Texas Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora) is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen perennial with tall coral red flowers! Surprisingly, a native of Northeastern Mexico and Southwestern Texas can handle our extreme cold and wetness of Lawrence, KS! Normally thriving in hot, dry, desert conditions, is also surprisingly winter hardy to USDA Zone 5. Medium to blue-green leaves form rosettes about 2-3 feet tall and wide. Tall red flower spikes reliably appear on mature plants from July to October lasting 3-4 months in Kansas. If pollination is successful, attractive seed heads form later turning to black before cracking open in winter. Tough as nails, yuccas are the ideal plant for a no-maintenance garden. Normally a plant has specific requirements for success but this yucca has only a few: it cannot tolerate poorly drained soils, full shade, or North exposures. This and other yuccas look best when combined with other flowering plants providing texture and color. In mass plantings, red yucca can create an interesting architectural look. Combined with ornamental grasses, red yucca can create stunning contrasts with winter grass colors of pink, orange and rust. Red flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds and certainly deserve a place in native plant / pollinator garden. Not a true yucca, this is actually a Hesperaloe, a closely related genus also related to century plants. A large group of Hesperaloe survived -16 degrees F and a week of single digit highs in February, 2021 with no mulch. I have also seen miles upon miles of this plant growing in the medians along multi-lane interstates in Dallas. All plants were healthy looking with no missing or dying plants; truely a tough plant. Truely a 4-seasons plant for your yard!
Texas Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora) is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen perennial with tall coral red flowers! Surprisingly, a native of Northeastern Mexico and Southwestern Texas can handle our extreme cold and wetness of Lawrence, KS! Normally thriving in hot, dry, desert conditions, is also surprisingly winter hardy to USDA Zone 5. Medium to blue-green leaves form rosettes about 2-3 feet tall and wide. Tall red flower spikes reliably appear on mature plants from July to October lasting 3-4 months in Kansas. If pollination is successful, attractive seed heads form later turning to black before cracking open in winter. Tough as nails, yuccas are the ideal plant for a no-maintenance garden. Normally a plant has specific requirements for success but this yucca has only a few: it cannot tolerate poorly drained soils, full shade, or North exposures. This and other yuccas look best when combined with other flowering plants providing texture and color. In mass plantings, red yucca can create an interesting architectural look. Combined with ornamental grasses, red yucca can create stunning contrasts with winter grass colors of pink, orange and rust. Red flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds and certainly deserve a place in native plant / pollinator garden. Not a true yucca, this is actually a Hesperaloe, a closely related genus also related to century plants. A large group of Hesperaloe survived -16 degrees F and a week of single digit highs in February, 2021 with no mulch. I have also seen miles upon miles of this plant growing in the medians along multi-lane interstates in Dallas. All plants were healthy looking with no missing or dying plants; truely a tough plant. Truely a 4-seasons plant for your yard!
Texas Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora) is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen perennial with tall coral red flowers! Surprisingly, a native of Northeastern Mexico and Southwestern Texas can handle our extreme cold and wetness of Lawrence, KS! Normally thriving in hot, dry, desert conditions, is also surprisingly winter hardy to USDA Zone 5. Medium to blue-green leaves form rosettes about 2-3 feet tall and wide. Tall red flower spikes reliably appear on mature plants from July to October lasting 3-4 months in Kansas. If pollination is successful, attractive seed heads form later turning to black before cracking open in winter. Tough as nails, yuccas are the ideal plant for a no-maintenance garden. Normally a plant has specific requirements for success but this yucca has only a few: it cannot tolerate poorly drained soils, full shade, or North exposures. This and other yuccas look best when combined with other flowering plants providing texture and color. In mass plantings, red yucca can create an interesting architectural look. Combined with ornamental grasses, red yucca can create stunning contrasts with winter grass colors of pink, orange and rust. Red flowers are pollinated by hummingbirds and certainly deserve a place in native plant / pollinator garden. Not a true yucca, this is actually a Hesperaloe, a closely related genus also related to century plants. A large group of Hesperaloe survived -16 degrees F and a week of single digit highs in February, 2021 with no mulch. I have also seen miles upon miles of this plant growing in the medians along multi-lane interstates in Dallas. All plants were healthy looking with no missing or dying plants; truely a tough plant. Truely a 4-seasons plant for your yard!
Caramel coral bells (Heuchera 'Caramel') are planted for its unusual orange-copper-peach evergreen leaf colors. Tiny light pink flowers also appear in early summer. Foliage maintains well as a non-spreading clump all year provided that certain cultural conditions are met. Native to Eastern U.S. forests in humusy, medium well-drained soil in part shade to full shade, it needs constantly moist soil rich in organic matter but avoid clay. Summer droughts and temperatures over 100 degrees F. are stressful for coral belles. If low temperatures hit -10 degrees F, foliage finally dies back to the ground and re-emerges in early spring. Useful in Kansas landscapes as a small scale groundcover in part shade or morning sun. Color is less intense in full shade. Generally this plant declines after a few years of Kansas climate but worth a try in perfect soils in well-tended shade gardens. Preferring northern climates, lack of moisture, alkaline soils, and competition with weeds seem to be an issue. 'Carmel' is a villosa hybrid with glowing golden-orange leaves turning a bit more apricot with warmer weather. Foliage is fuzzy giving the plants a more frosted look. For a coral bell, this cultivar is very heat and humidity tolerant; a vigorous grower. We have a specimen thriving in our Lawrence, KS, for over 10 years needing very little care; it gets morning sun, regular irrigation, and that's about it! All Proven Winners® plants are legally propagated, healthy and vigorous, true to name, and tagged with color pictures and growing information.
Obsidian Coral Bells (Heuchera x 'Obsidian') are planted for its unusual orange-copper-peach evergreen leaf colors. Tiny light pink flowers also appear in early summer. Foliage maintains well as a non-spreading clump all year provided that certain cultural conditions are met. Native to Eastern U.S. forests in humusy, medium well-drained soil in part shade to full shade, it needs constantly moist soil rich in organic matter but avoid clay. Summer droughts and temperatures over 100 degrees F. are stressful for coral belles. If low temperatures hit -10 degrees F, foliage finally dies back to the ground and re-emerges in early spring. Useful in Kansas landscapes as a small scale groundcover in part shade or morning sun. Color is less intense in full shade. Generally this plant declines after a few years of Kansas climate but worth a try in perfect soils in well-tended shade gardens. Preferring northern climates, lack of moisture, alkaline soils, and competition with weeds seem to be an issue. 'Carmel' is a villosa hybrid with glowing golden-orange leaves turning a bit more apricot with warmer weather. Foliage is fuzzy giving the plants a more frosted look. For a coral bell, this cultivar is very heat and humidity tolerant; a vigorous grower. We have a specimen thriving in our Lawrence, KS, for over 10 years needing very little care; it gets morning sun, regular irrigation, and that's about it! All Proven Winners® plants are legally propagated, healthy and vigorous, true to name, and tagged with color pictures and growing information.
Obsidian Coral Bells (Heuchera x 'Obsidian') are planted for its unusual orange-copper-peach evergreen leaf colors. Tiny light pink flowers also appear in early summer. Foliage maintains well as a non-spreading clump all year provided that certain cultural conditions are met. Native to Eastern U.S. forests in humusy, medium well-drained soil in part shade to full shade, it needs constantly moist soil rich in organic matter but avoid clay. Summer droughts and temperatures over 100 degrees F. are stressful for coral belles. If low temperatures hit -10 degrees F, foliage finally dies back to the ground and re-emerges in early spring. Useful in Kansas landscapes as a small scale groundcover in part shade or morning sun. Color is less intense in full shade. Generally this plant declines after a few years of Kansas climate but worth a try in perfect soils in well-tended shade gardens. Preferring northern climates, lack of moisture, alkaline soils, and competition with weeds seem to be an issue. 'Carmel' is a villosa hybrid with glowing golden-orange leaves turning a bit more apricot with warmer weather. Foliage is fuzzy giving the plants a more frosted look. For a coral bell, this cultivar is very heat and humidity tolerant; a vigorous grower. We have a specimen thriving in our Lawrence, KS, for over 10 years needing very little care; it gets morning sun, regular irrigation, and that's about it! All Proven Winners® plants are legally propagated, healthy and vigorous, true to name, and tagged with color pictures and growing information.
Mary's Hardy Red Amaryllis (Hippeastrum 'Mary') is a cultivar named by Ryan Domnick after his mother Mary. Mary Domnick had grown this beautiful unknown variety for over a decade in the 1980's and 1990's. The glossy green strap-like leaves emerge in spring emerge with a reddish tint. Deep red velvety flowers have a darker red throat and last for about a month. Foliage remains attractive all summer with plenty of heat tolerance. No other cultivars match this pure deep red color! The plants are temperate and subtropical herbaceous perennial bulbs native to areas with a summer wet season and dry winter. Mary's Hardy Red Amaryllis are hardy outside as a perennial when established and mulched at least to zone 6a. During the growing season, fertilize, water regularly, and plant in full sun. Plant these bulbs in the ground at least 6-8" deep with 3-4" of mulch to enjoy a wonderful tropical flowering effect! Trim back foliage after first fall freeze. They can also be grown as a flowering summer patio plant. If growing as a potted plant and trying to overwinter, allowing the foliage to frost is ok, it will not kill the root system. However, do not allow the pot with rootball to freeze solid or go below 20 degrees for more than a few hours; move into a cold garage or basement over the winter with no watering. Cut back and allow to go dormant and place entire pot back out in April or May with a time-release fertilizer. Another more labor intensive way to overwinter gladiolus is to remove them from the dirt, dust with fungicide, place in box with sawdust, and keep in the refrigerator. We consider this method old-fashioned and too much work but ok if you only want to save a few bulbs. If digging from the ground in colder zones, just save a big chunk with the dirt intact and place into a large pot in the garage. In our display garden in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a), several established specimens planted over 4-6" deep and mulched 2-3" with wood mulch survived -17 degrees F. During the arctic blast of February, 2021, lows down to -17 degrees F on Feb 16th, 2021 were recorded. The longevity of this cold blast was also impressive: 10 days on a row with highs of 10-15 degrees F or lower, 8 nights of lows in the single digits and negatives, and 36 straight hours of 0 degrees F and mostly lower. These have been in the ground for over 10 years and muscled through other periods of below zero cold weather.
Wax Plants (Hoya sp.) have been popular house plants for decades because they are extremely long-lived, have a classic, deep green, vining foliage and produce fragrant, light pink and red star-shaped flowers. Because of their thick waxy foliage, they are often called wax plants. These tropical vines have a few requirements in order to thrive but nothing too hard. Give them bright indirect light and water only when dry. If light, temperature, and humidity are sufficient, flowers may occur. If not, then just enjoy the beautiful foliage. They are usually grown as a house plant in Kansas but can be moved outside in the summer if kept in full shade. Leaves will sunburn easily! In the wild, most species grow in dry-deciduous jungles that never get below 60 degrees F. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow; plants can continue to grow in the same pot for decades. If repotting, make sure to use a sharp draining but high organic cactus mix with plenty of sand and perlite. To play is safe, outside potted plants are best moved in before night temperatures get below 50 degrees F. It is important to avoid the combination of wet and cold. Potted plants are very low maintenance but watch for scale and mealybugs that may hide beneath the foliage.
Wax Plants (Hoya sp.) have been popular house plants for decades because they are extremely long-lived, have a classic, deep green, vining foliage and produce fragrant, light pink and red star-shaped flowers. Because of their thick waxy foliage, they are often called wax plants. These tropical vines have a few requirements in order to thrive but nothing too hard. Give them bright indirect light and water only when dry. If light, temperature, and humidity are sufficient, flowers may occur. If not, then just enjoy the beautiful foliage. They are usually grown as a house plant in Kansas but can be moved outside in the summer if kept in full shade. Leaves will sunburn easily! In the wild, most species grow in dry-deciduous jungles that never get below 60 degrees F. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow; plants can continue to grow in the same pot for decades. If repotting, make sure to use a sharp draining but high organic cactus mix with plenty of sand and perlite. To play is safe, outside potted plants are best moved in before night temperatures get below 50 degrees F. It is important to avoid the combination of wet and cold. Potted plants are very low maintenance but watch for scale and mealybugs that may hide beneath the foliage.
Wax Plants (Hoya sp.) have been popular house plants for decades because they are extremely long-lived, have a classic, deep green, vining foliage and produce fragrant, light pink and red star-shaped flowers. Because of their thick waxy foliage, they are often called wax plants. These tropical vines have a few requirements in order to thrive but nothing too hard. Give them bright indirect light and water only when dry. If light, temperature, and humidity are sufficient, flowers may occur. If not, then just enjoy the beautiful foliage. They are usually grown as a house plant in Kansas but can be moved outside in the summer if kept in full shade. Leaves will sunburn easily! In the wild, most species grow in dry-deciduous jungles that never get below 60 degrees F. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow; plants can continue to grow in the same pot for decades. If repotting, make sure to use a sharp draining but high organic cactus mix with plenty of sand and perlite. To play is safe, outside potted plants are best moved in before night temperatures get below 50 degrees F. It is important to avoid the combination of wet and cold. Potted plants are very low maintenance but watch for scale and mealybugs that may hide beneath the foliage.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***American Tree Holly, is also known as Ilex opaca
***Description for this plant available with future update!***
***Description for this plant available with future update!*** This plant can also be used as a marginal aquatic plant growing in shallow water. It can also grow as a bog plant needing constantly moist soil rich in organic matter. As a rain garden plant, it will thrive is a depressed area in the landscape that collects rain water from a roof during spring and summer periods of rain but then go dormant if the water hole dries out completely.
***Description for this bamboo available with future update!***Largeleaf Groundcover Bamboo / Indocalamus, is also known as Indocalamus tessellatus
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***
Winter Jasmine (Jasminium nudiflorum) is a spreading dwarf shrub native to China. It features dark green glossy leaves that remain attractive all summer. The density of the shrub overtime is unmatched, completely eliminating any weeds including tree seedlings from emerging. Bright yellow five-petaled flowers resembling forsythia bloom extremely early in the spring usually in February or March before foliage growth (in Lawrence, KS). Flower buds are hardy to about 0° so flowering may not occur every year if temperatures get lower. Occasionally this shrub will bloom in the middle of winter when we have a 2-3 week warm spell. When it does bloom, it creates a spectacular show completely covering the shrub. It will grow in full sun or full shade in medium to dry soils including some dry-shade. It tolerates moist soils and brief periods of saturated soils after heavy rains. Fall color is yellow but drops quickly. Stems take on an olive greenish color in winter rendering them mildly attractive. Winter jasmine is commonly grown as a spreading groundcover shrub for difficult areas, frequently used as large mass planting on hills. Because of its tolerance for adverse conditions including poor soil and rock, it is often one of the last resort plants that will survive in certain areas. It competes well under large shade trees and helps absorb leaf litter allowing it to break down and add nutrients back to the soil. This plant also does well in hot dry parking lot islands, hell strips, and along busy roads in full sun. Another great spot is planting on top of a retaining wall allowing it to cascade down. Further uses include erosion control and streambank stabilization. We do not recommend planting in small areas or in spaces that it will overrun neighboring plants. It only spreads above ground as horizontally growing stems touch the ground and root. This does make maintenance easier to control the spread of the plant versus digging out rhizomes. Avoid North exposures and wet soils. Considered one of the most versatile and best plants for solving difficult landscape challenges.
***Description for this grass available with future update!***>>>>>This plant can also be used as a marginal aquatic plant growing in shallow water. It can also grow as a bog plant needing constantly moist soil rich in organic matter. As a rain garden plant, it will thrive is a depressed area in the landscape that collects rain water from a roof during spring and summer periods of rain but then go dormant if the water hole dries out completely.
***Description for this plant available with future update!*** This plant can also be used as a marginal aquatic plant growing in shallow water. It can also grow as a bog plant needing constantly moist soil rich in organic matter. As a rain garden plant, it will thrive is a depressed area in the landscape that collects rain water from a roof during spring and summer periods of rain but then go dormant if the water hole dries out completely.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***
***Tree descriptions available with future update!***Eastern Red Ceder, is also known as Juniperus virginiana
***Tree descriptions available with future update!***
***Tree descriptions available with future update!***
Mother of Thousands (Kalanchoe daigremontiana) is a very unusual succulent (and sometimes a weed) grown for its beautiful symmetrical foliage with neatly aligned babies (offspring) growing along the leaf edges. Tall orange flowers emerge from larger mature pot grown plants. Usually used as a patio or house plant in Kansas, they can also be grown as an annual. Grow in full sun to part sun with optional extra watering including that which comes from rainfall. Plants with time to acclimate will thrive in full sun but be careful not to rush it or sunburning will occur. Generally if moving outside for the summer, allow 2-3 weeks of part shade or morning sun before placing in full sun. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow; plants can continue to grow and tolerate extremely root-bound pots. Protect from temperatures below 35 degrees F and move into a bright window over the winter with no watering. Do not allow Mother of Thousands grown in pots to freeze solid or get close to freezing especially if soil is wet or death may occur. As a winter house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with just a few monthly or no waterings if you forget. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry between waterings for many years of carefree enjoyment. Note that Mother of Thousands is called so because "babies" constantly fall off the mother plant and can become weeds in your other succulent plants. This is mostly interesting (especially for kids) to see how some plants can propagate. Undesired plants can easily be pulled out and given to a new home.
Mother of Millions (Kalanchoe delagoensis) is a very unusual succulent (and sometimes weed) grown for its beautiful symmetrical foliage with neatly aligned babies(offspring) growing along the leaf edges. Tall orange flowers emerge from larger mature pot grown plants. Usually used as a patio or house plant in Kansas, they can also be grown as an annual. Grow in full sun to part sun with optional extra watering including that which comes from rainfall. Plants with time to acclimate will thrive in full sun but be careful not to rush it or sunburning will occur. Generally if moving outside for the summer, allow 2-3 weeks of part shade or morning sun before placing in full sun. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow; plants can continue to grow and tolerate extremely root-bound pots. Protect from temperatures below 35 degrees F and move into a bright window over the winter with no watering. Do not allow Mother of Millions grown in pots to freeze solid or get close to freezing especially if soil is wet or death may occur. As a winter house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with just a few monthly or no waterings if you forget. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry between waterings for many years of carefree enjoyment. Note that Mother of Millions is called so because "babies" constantly fall off the mother plant and can become weeds in your other succulent plants. This is mostly interesting (especially for kids) to see how some plants can propagate. Undesired plants can easily be pulled out and given to a new home.
The silver foliage color of (Kalanchoe hildebrandtii) steals the show. Usually used as a patio or house plant in Kansas, they can also be grown as an annual if purchased in bulk. Grow in full sun to part sun with optional extra watering including that which comes from rainfall. Plants with time to acclimate will thrive in full sun but be careful not to rush it or sunburning will occur. Generally if moving outside for the summer, allow 2-3 weeks of part shade or morning sun before placing in full sun. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow; plants can continue to grow and tolerate extremely root-bound pots. Protect from temperatures below 35 degrees F and move into a bright window over the winter with no watering. Do not allow Silver Teaspoons plant grown in pots to freeze solid or get close to freezing especially if soil is wet or death may occur. As a winter house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with just a few monthly or almost no waterings if you forget. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry between waterings for many years of carefree enjoyment. Potted plants are very low maintenance and tolerant of indoor environments. This is not at all a big-box store plant so be prepared to expand your plant palette with Silver Teaspoons!
The foliage color, texture and patterns make Paddle Plant (Kalanchoe luciae) an excellent architectural specimen. Usually used as a patio or house plant in Kansas, they can also be grown as an annual. Grow in full sun to part sun with optional extra watering including that which comes from rainfall. Plants with time to acclimate will thrive in full sun but be careful not to rush it or sunburning will occur. Generally if moving outside for the summer, allow 2-3 weeks of part shade or morning sun before placing in full sun. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow; plants can continue to grow and tolerate extremely root-bound pots. Protect from temperatures below 35 degrees F and move into a bright window over the winter with no watering. Do not allow Paddle plant grown in pots to freeze solid or get close to freezing especially if soil is wet or death may occur. As a winter house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with just a few monthly or no waterings if you forget. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry between waterings for many years of carefree enjoyment. Potted plants are very low maintenance needing only old leaves trimmed once per year. This is not at all a big-box store plant so be prepared to expand your plant palette with Paddle plant!
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Dream Catcher Beautybush, is also known as Kolkwitzia amabilis 'Dream Catcher'
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Goldleaf/Golden Beauty Beautybush, is also known as Kolkwitzia amabilis 'Goldleaf'
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Dream Catcher Beautybush, is also known as Kolkwitzia amabilis 'Dream Catcher'
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***>>>>>Ultra cold-hardy plants from northern climates normally dislike our long hot humid summers; although we are on the Southern edge of this plants adaptability, it still survives reasonably well here. Look for a cold microclimate planting location such as East or North exposure.>>>>>
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead') is one of the most well-known flowers and herbal qualities. It features grayish green aromatic and evergreen foliage with lavender flowers. Blooming usually starts during the heat of summer and continues until frost. Lavender is native to Mediterranean climates with average moisture in the summer and dry, mild winters. Because of its heritage, it resents cold wet winters and needs well drained sandy, silty, or rocky soil. In the short term, it will typically grow in any soil during the summer making it very useful even as an annual. In Kansas landscapes, it is commonly used as an annual or short-lived perennial where lots of color is needed in full sun. Root rot is likely when placed in poor draining soil or even in rich garden soil. Summer heat is usually not a problem but not extreme heat of a south or west wall. Lavender does reasonably well growing out of retaining walls or on top of retaining walls with perfect drainage. Lavender is actually a woody shrub but grown like a in perennial because every so often do you need to trim it back to a few inches off the ground. Lavender combines nicely with any red, orange, or yellow flower or where needing a perennial with evergreen winter color. Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead' is a commonly sold cultivar.
Lavender is one of the most well-known flowers and herbal qualities. It features grayish green aromatic and evergreen foliage with lavender flowers. Blooming usually starts during the heat of summer and continues until frost. Lavender is native to Mediterranean climates with average moisture in the summer and dry, mild winters. Because of its heritage, it resents cold wet winters and needs well drained sandy, silty, or rocky soil. In the short term, it will typically grow in any soil during the summer making it very useful even as an annual. In Kansas landscapes, it is commonly used as an annual or short-lived perennial where lots of color is needed in full sun. Root rot is likely when placed in poor draining soil or even in rich garden soil. Summer heat is usually not a problem but not extreme heat of a south or west wall. Lavender does reasonably well growing out of retaining walls or on top of retaining walls with perfect drainage. Lavender is actually a woody shrub but grown like a in perennial because every so often do you need to trim it back to a few inches off the ground. Lavender combines nicely with any red, orange, or yellow flower or where needing a perennial with evergreen winter color. Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead' is a commonly sold cultivar.
Native Spicebush (Lindera benzoin) is a multi-stemmed, irregularly rounded understory shrub native to eastern North America, including Eastern Kansas. Foliage is a matte bright green then turning an attractive yellow in autumn. The yellow flowers grow in showy clusters appearing in early spring before foliage emerges. Flowers on male and female plants look noticeably different. The flowers have sepals in place of petals and a very sweet aroma. Red berries are produced if a male and female plant are close together. Nutritious fruit is quickly eaten by several bird species. Full shade to part shade is best with average to moisture-retentive rich soils. Height reaches 6-9' tall in Kansas and Missouri. The name "Spicebush" comes from foliage and stems that are aromatic when bruised. Spicebush tolerates alkalinity, and in the wild is sometimes found in soils with exposed limestone. Some drought is tolerated if planted in shade; dry-shade experiments are in progress in Lawrence, KS. Use in the landscape as a wildlife friendly background shrub or grouping in shade gardens.
Big Blue Liriope (Liriope muscari 'Big Blue') grows to form a dense, dark green, grass-like groundcover in medium to full shade. As one of the very best "dry-shade" plants, it has environmental and economic traits that can help conserve water and lower your water bill! Plantings can thrive for decades if in the right spot; there is no such thing as overcrowding for Liriope. When planted in mass, growth is slow at first but eventually a cake-like rhizome system will form and completely smother out any weeds and compete well with trees for water and nutrients. Even under the most hostile conditions such as huge silver maple and pin oak trees, liriope not only survives but thrives. While Big Blue Liriope can tolerate full sun, they prefer part to full shade. Sun burning is possible with temperatures over 100° and there are better plants to use in hot areas. Liriope has no insect or disease problems, will survive droughts, short-term floods and cold winters. In the winter, it will stay green until 0 degrees F and be completely evergreen some winters. Liriope also thrives in summer with the worst heat and humidity even in the Southeast and Southwest! Liriope is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers clay/loam and will display best growth in fertile soils with average water but extremely drought tolerant in shaded areas! For the home garden, the species spreads slowly so you shouldn't leave very much room in-between Liriope plants or you will be waiting many years for the patch to fill in. Weeds can be a problem in that open area between plants if spacing is too wide. We recommend 12-18" spacing for a larger area. The only problem we have seen is a mysterious crown-rot disease in well-irrigated gardens. This liriope (Liriope muscari 'Big Blue') does not spread very quickly or much at all compared to Spreading Liriope / Monkey Grass (Liriope spicata) This is a real trooper for the dry shade garden!
Classic Blue Clump-forming Liriope (Liriope muscari 'Classic Blue' / 'Ingwersen') grows to form a dense, dark green, grass-like groundcover in medium to full shade. As one of the very best "dry-shade" plants, it has environmental and economic traits that can help conserve water and lower your water bill! Plantings can thrive for decades if in the right spot; there is no such thing as overcrowding for Liriope. When planted in mass, growth is slow at first but eventually a cake-like rhizome system will form and completely smother out any weeds and compete well with trees for water and nutrients. Even under the most hostile conditions such as huge silver maple and pin oak trees, liriope not only survives but thrives. While Big Blue Liriope can tolerate full sun, they prefer part to full shade. Sun burning is possible with temperatures over 100° and there are better plants to use in hot areas. Liriope has no insect or disease problems, will survive droughts, short-term floods and cold winters. In the winter, it will stay green until 0 degrees F and be completely evergreen some winters. Liriope also thrives in summer with the worst heat and humidity even in the Southeast and Southwest! Liriope is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers clay/loam and will display best growth in fertile soils with average water but extremely drought tolerant in shaded areas! For the home garden, the species spreads slowly so you shouldn't leave very much room in-between Liriope plants or you will be waiting many years for the patch to fill in. Weeds can be a problem in that open area between plants if spacing is too wide. We recommend 12-18" spacing for a larger area. The only problem we have seen is a mysterious crown-rot disease in well-irrigated gardens. This liriope (Liriope muscari 'Classic Blue' / 'Ingwersen') does not spread very quickly or much at all compared to Spreading Liriope / Monkey Grass (Liriope spicata) This is a real trooper for the dry shade garden!
Classic Blue Clump-forming Liriope (Liriope muscari 'Classic Blue' / 'Ingwersen') grows to form a dense, dark green, grass-like groundcover in medium to full shade. As one of the very best "dry-shade" plants, it has environmental and economic traits that can help conserve water and lower your water bill! Plantings can thrive for decades if in the right spot; there is no such thing as overcrowding for Liriope. When planted in mass, growth is slow at first but eventually a cake-like rhizome system will form and completely smother out any weeds and compete well with trees for water and nutrients. Even under the most hostile conditions such as huge silver maple and pin oak trees, liriope not only survives but thrives. While Big Blue Liriope can tolerate full sun, they prefer part to full shade. Sun burning is possible with temperatures over 100° and there are better plants to use in hot areas. Liriope has no insect or disease problems, will survive droughts, short-term floods and cold winters. In the winter, it will stay green until 0 degrees F and be completely evergreen some winters. Liriope also thrives in summer with the worst heat and humidity even in the Southeast and Southwest! Liriope is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers clay/loam and will display best growth in fertile soils with average water but extremely drought tolerant in shaded areas! For the home garden, the species spreads slowly so you shouldn't leave very much room in-between Liriope plants or you will be waiting many years for the patch to fill in. Weeds can be a problem in that open area between plants if spacing is too wide. We recommend 12-18" spacing for a larger area. The only problem we have seen is a mysterious crown-rot disease in well-irrigated gardens. This liriope (Liriope muscari 'Classic Blue' / 'Ingwersen') does not spread very quickly or much at all compared to Spreading Liriope / Monkey Grass (Liriope spicata) This is a real trooper for the dry shade garden!
Royal Purple Liriope (Liriope muscari 'Royal Purple') grows to form a dense, dark green, grass-like groundcover in medium to full shade. As one of the very best "dry-shade" plants, it has environmental and economic traits that can help conserve water and lower your water bill! Plantings can thrive for decades if in the right spot; there is no such thing as overcrowding for Liriope. When planted in mass, growth is slow at first but eventually a cake-like rhizome system will form and completely smother out any weeds and compete well with trees for water and nutrients. Even under the most hostile conditions such as huge silver maple and pin oak trees, liriope not only survives but thrives. While Big Blue Liriope can tolerate full sun, they prefer part to full shade. Sun burning is possible with temperatures over 100° and there are better plants to use in hot areas. Liriope has no insect or disease problems, will survive droughts, short-term floods and cold winters. In the winter, it will stay green until 0 degrees F and be completely evergreen some winters. Liriope also thrives in summer with the worst heat and humidity even in the Southeast and Southwest! Liriope is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers clay/loam and will display best growth in fertile soils with average water but extremely drought tolerant in shaded areas! For the home garden, the species spreads slowly so you shouldn't leave very much room in-between Liriope plants or you will be waiting many years for the patch to fill in. Weeds can be a problem in that open area between plants if spacing is too wide. We recommend 12-18" spacing for a larger area. The only problem we have seen is a mysterious crown-rot disease in well-irrigated gardens. This liriope (Liriope muscari 'Royal Purple') does not spread very quickly or much at all compared to Spreading Liriope / Monkey Grass (Liriope spicata) This is a real trooper for the dry shade garden!
Variegated Liriope (Liriope muscari 'Variegata') grows to form a dense, dark green, grass-like groundcover in medium to full shade. As one of the very best "dry-shade" plants, it has environmental and economic traits that can help conserve water and lower your water bill! Plantings can thrive for decades if in the right spot; there is no such thing as overcrowding for Liriope. When planted in mass, growth is slow at first but eventually a cake-like rhizome system will form and completely smother out any weeds and compete well with trees for water and nutrients. Even under the most hostile conditions such as huge silver maple and pin oak trees, liriope not only survives but thrives. While Big Blue Liriope can tolerate full sun, they prefer part to full shade. Sun burning is possible with temperatures over 100° and there are better plants to use in hot areas. Liriope has no insect or disease problems, will survive droughts, short-term floods and cold winters. In the winter, it will stay green until 0 degrees F and be completely evergreen some winters. Liriope also thrives in summer with the worst heat and humidity even in the Southeast and Southwest! Liriope is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers clay/loam and will display best growth in fertile soils with average water but extremely drought tolerant in shaded areas! For the home garden, the species spreads slowly so you shouldn't leave very much room in-between Liriope plants or you will be waiting many years for the patch to fill in. Weeds can be a problem in that open area between plants if spacing is too wide. We recommend 12-18" spacing for a larger area. The only problem we have seen is a mysterious crown-rot disease in well-irrigated gardens. This liriope (Liriope muscari 'Variegata') does not spread very quickly or much at all compared to Spreading Liriope / Monkey Grass (Liriope spicata) This is a real trooper for the dry shade garden!
Big Blue Liriope (Liriope muscari 'Big Blue') grows to form a dense, dark green, grass-like groundcover in medium to full shade. As one of the very best "dry-shade" plants, it has environmental and economic traits that can help conserve water and lower your water bill! Plantings can thrive for decades if in the right spot; there is no such thing as overcrowding for Liriope. When planted in mass, growth is slow at first but eventually a cake-like rhizome system will form and completely smother out any weeds and compete well with trees for water and nutrients. Even under the most hostile conditions such as huge silver maple and pin oak trees, liriope not only survives but thrives. While Big Blue Liriope can tolerate full sun, they prefer part to full shade. Sun burning is possible with temperatures over 100° and there are better plants to use in hot areas. Liriope has no insect or disease problems, will survive droughts, short-term floods and cold winters. In the winter, it will stay green until 0 degrees F and be completely evergreen some winters. Liriope also thrives in summer with the worst heat and humidity even in the Southeast and Southwest! Liriope is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers clay/loam and will display best growth in fertile soils with average water but extremely drought tolerant in shaded areas! For the home garden, the species spreads slowly so you shouldn't leave very much room in-between Liriope plants or you will be waiting many years for the patch to fill in. Weeds can be a problem in that open area between plants if spacing is too wide. We recommend 12-18" spacing for a larger area. The only problem we have seen is a mysterious crown-rot disease in well-irrigated gardens. This liriope (Liriope muscari 'Big Blue') does not spread very quickly or much at all compared to Spreading Liriope / Monkey Grass (Liriope spicata) This is a real trooper for the dry shade garden!
Liriope (Liriope spitica) grows to form a dense, dark green, grass-like groundcover / turf in medium to full shade. (also called "Lilyturf"). As one of the very best "dry-shade" plants, it has environmental and economic traits that cannot be disputed. A typical homeowner will save hundreds of dollars a year on lawn maintenance costs. Large turflike installations can save thousands of dollars per year. Even under the most hostile conditions such as huge silver maple and pin oak trees, liriope not only survives but thrives. Liriope has no insect or disease problems, will survive droughts, short-term floods and cold winters. Liriope has a very low water requirement and a deep root system that allows it to draw water from a large area. Liriope thrives on only 1 deep watering per month in the summer to stay green. In the winter, it will stay green until zero degrees and be completely evergreen some winters. If the top Liriope grows to form a dense groundcover / turf in medium to full shade. Liriope requires no mowing maintenance (monthly mowing is optional to achieve 4" height) Un-mowed, it will grow uniformly 8-10" and appear like a lawn from a distance. Fewer weed problems occur; the dense growth of liriope grass smothers out existing weeds and prevents the germination of new seeds. The soft texture and medium green color are great assets; evergreen to 0ºF, survives -20. Liriope grows in zones 5-9; tolerates cold in the winter and heat / humidity in the summer. Liriope is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers clay/loam and will display best growth in fertile soils with average water but extremely drought tolerant in shaded areas! For the home garden, the species is generally too aggressive to mix with other plants. Use as a groundcover or lawn substitute for dry-shade.
Liriope (Liriope spitica) grows to form a dense, dark green, grass-like groundcover / turf in medium to full shade. (also called "Lilyturf"). As one of the very best "dry-shade" plants, it has environmental and economic traits that cannot be disputed. A typical homeowner will save hundreds of dollars a year on lawn maintenance costs. Large turflike installations can save thousands of dollars per year. Even under the most hostile conditions such as huge silver maple and pin oak trees, liriope not only survives but thrives. Liriope has no insect or disease problems, will survive droughts, short-term floods and cold winters. Liriope has a very low water requirement and a deep root system that allows it to draw water from a large area. Liriope thrives on only 1 deep watering per month in the summer to stay green. In the winter, it will stay green until zero degrees and be completely evergreen some winters. If the top Liriope grows to form a dense groundcover / turf in medium to full shade. Liriope requires no mowing maintenance (monthly mowing is optional to achieve 4" height) Un-mowed, it will grow uniformly 8-10" and appear like a lawn from a distance. Fewer weed problems occur; the dense growth of liriope grass smothers out existing weeds and prevents the germination of new seeds. The soft texture and medium green color are great assets; evergreen to 0ºF, survives -20. Liriope grows in zones 5-9; tolerates cold in the winter and heat / humidity in the summer. Liriope is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but prefers clay/loam and will display best growth in fertile soils with average water but extremely drought tolerant in shaded areas! For the home garden, the species is generally too aggressive to mix with other plants. Use as a groundcover or lawn substitute for dry-shade.
Also called Honeyberries, Japanese Haskap, or Yezberry® (Lonicera caerulea), these shrubs are easy-to-grow fruiting plants developed for their large, delicious blue fruit. Yezberry® Japanese haskaps are an easy-to-grow, super delicious fruit for everyone. Yellow flowers appear very early in spring (we'll bet it's the first thing to bloom in your yard each year) and give way to plump blue fruits in early summer. Berries are sweet enough to eat straight from the stems, or can be made into sauce, jam, or desserts. This tough shrub grows well in sun or part shade, and isn't fussy about soil: any type and even any pH level will do. Yezberry haskaps are extremely cold tolerant. Yezberry® Solo will bear fruit without a pollinator, but gets larger and more numerous berries when planted alongside another Yezberry® Japanese haskap variety. Yezberry® are extremely cold hardy and able to bear fruit in zones 3-7. However, as an ornamental shrub, late summer Kansas heat stress will likely cause partial to complete defoliation. This does not affect the fruit quality or overall health of the shrub as the flower buds for next year are already formed. Ultra cold-hardy plants from northern climates normally dislike our long hot humid summers; although we are on the Southern edge of this plants adaptability, it still survives reasonably well here. Look for a cold microclimate planting location such as East or North exposure. All Proven Winners® plants are legally propagated, healthy and vigorous, true to name, and tagged with color pictures and growing information.
Also called Honeyberries, Japanese Haskap, or Yezberry® (Lonicera caerulea), these shrubs are easy-to-grow fruiting plants developed for their large, delicious blue fruit. Yezberry® are extremely cold hardy and able to bear fruit in zones 3-7. Plant with another Yezberry® variety for an abundant fruit set on both plants. However, as an ornamental shrub, late summer Kansas heat stress will likely cause partial to complete defoliation. This does not affect the fruit quality or overall health of the shrub as the flower buds for next year are already formed. Ultra cold-hardy plants from northern climates normally dislike our long hot humid summers; although we are on the Southern edge of this plants adaptability, it still survives reasonably well here. Look for a cold microclimate planting location such as East or North exposure. In Eastern Kansas, typically our 40 inches of rainfall is sufficient without extra water. All Proven Winners® plants are legally propagated, healthy and vigorous, true to name, and tagged with color pictures and growing information.
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***>>>>>are typically grown for their mid-summer flowers and vertical iris-leaf foliage. The plants are temperate and subtropical herbaceous perennial bulbs native to areas with a summer wet season and dry winter. Gladiolus are hardy outside as a perennial when established and with minimal effort at least up to zone 6a. During the growing season, fertilize, water regularly, and plant in full sun. Plant these bulbs in the ground at least 6-8" deep with 3-4" of mulch to enjoy a wonderful tropical flowering effect! Foliage may look bedwraggled by fall so it is ok to cut back foliage at that time. They can also be grown as a flowering summer patio plant. If growing as a potted plant and trying to overwinter, allowing the foliage to frost is ok, it will not kill the root system. However, do not allow the pot with rootball to freeze solid or go below 20 degrees for more than a few hours; move into a cold garage or basement over the winter with no watering. Cut back and allow to go dormant and place entire pot back out in April or May with a time-release fertilizer. Another more labor intensive way to overwinter gladiolus is to remove them from the dirt, dust with fungicide, place in box with sawdust, and keep in the refrigerator. We consider this method old-fashioned and too much work but ok if you only want to save a few bulbs. If digging from the ground in colder zones, just save a big chunk with the dirt intact and place into a large pot in the garage. In a customer's garden in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a), four established specimens planted over 4-6" deep and mulched 2-3" with wood mulch survived -17 degrees F. During the arctic blast of February, 2021, lows down to -17 degrees F on Feb 16th, 2021 were recorded. The longevity of this cold blast was also impressive: 10 days on a row with highs of 10-15 degrees F or lower, 8 nights of lows in the single digits and negatives, and 36 straight hours of 0 degrees F and mostly lower.
Jane Magenta Flowering Magnolia (Magnolia 'Jane'), noted for its compact, upright habit, grows best in organically rich, medium-moisture soil that's neutral to slightly acidic. Reddish purple flowers with white interiors open later in spring to avoid frost damage. Flowers do seem to tolerate light freezes down to 28 degrees that have occured here at our Lawrence, KS display garden without damage. Flowers are a gorgeous tulip shape with a lightly scented fragrance. Leaves are medium to dark green turning a beautiful gold in the fall. Jane magnolia makes a great understory small tree, specimen plant, or background shrub slowly growing 10'-15' high. Grows best in full morning sun and partially shaded afternoons in hot climates. Avoid hot West or South exposures and winds. Magnolias in general are a family of plants that have been around for millions of years and are among the most primitive of all flowers. In fact, most magnolia flowers evolved before bees and are thus pollinated by beetles. Magnolias generally grow in moist, well drained soils in sun or shade. They have no serious pests or disease problems. Occasionally seen listed as Magnolia liliflora 'Reflorescens' x stellate 'Waterlily'
***Tree descriptions available with future update!***
Magnolia grandiflora 'Bracken's Brown Beauty' is one of the most cold hardy of the Southern Magnolias. Magnolias in general are a family of plants that have been around for millions of years and are among the most primitive of all flowers. In fact, most magnolia flowers evolved before bees and are thus pollinated by beetles. Magnolias generally have no serious pests or diseases. Any of the dwarf Southern Magnolia cultivars serve as a beautiful four seasons small tree or large shrub. Evergreen foliage is a shiny dark green with a brown-orange back that first emerges lighter green. If temperature stay above -10°F, foliage generally stays intact. If colder than that, it will shed its leaves like a deciduous tree when new growth occurs in April. Large tropical-looking white scented flowers bloom in late May and early June. Green cones, yes cones, follow in late summer with the cones opening up to yield beautiful red seeds. Seeds are viable but will not survive the winter here. Bracken's Brown Beauty Magnolias appreciate rich well-drained soil but will tolerate less than ideal clay soils. Sandy or rocky soils are tolerated if watering is sufficient. Magnolias can tolerate short periods of poor drainage but not consistent bog like conditions. Full sun is best but WELL-CARED for Magnolias can tolerate mostly shade in rich soils. This means do not use Magnolias under walnut trees, in dry shade, or exposed to north winds on the north side of a house. Being one of the few broadleaf evergreens hardy in zone 6, Bracken's Brown Beauty has many landscape uses. Several trees planted in a row or group will make an awesome wind and visual screen without the pest problems of coniferous evergreens. If ice or snow damage occurs, Magnolias have the ability to grow back reasonably quickly as opposed to most coniferous evergreens. In fact, Magnolias will come back from the ground is completely cut down and new growth from water sprouts will be rapid. Magnolias also make a great specimen tree or background for flowers and shrubs. Magnolias can be planted near a house without worrying about damaging root systems; they are very easily pruneable if they start getting too big. This highly-rated small landscape tree is perfect somewhere on your property!
Magnolia grandiflora 'Victoria' is one of the most cold hardy of the Southern Magnolias. Magnolias in general are a family of plants that have been around for millions of years and are among the most primitive of all flowers. In fact, most magnolia flowers evolved before bees and are thus pollinated by beetles. Magnolias generally have no serious pests or diseases. Any of the dwarf Southern Magnolia cultivars serve as a beautiful four seasons small tree or large shrub. Evergreen foliage is a shiny dark green with a brown-orange back that first emerges lighter green. If temperature stay above -10°F, foliage generally stays intact. If colder than that, it will shed its leaves like a deciduous tree when new growth occurs in April. Large tropical-looking white scented flowers bloom in late May and early June. Green cones, yes cones, follow in late summer with the cones opening up to yield beautiful red seeds. Seeds are viable but will not survive the winter here. Victoria Hardy Southern Magnolias appreciate rich well-drained soil but will tolerate less than ideal clay soils. Sandy or rocky soils are tolerated if watering is sufficient. Magnolia's can tolerate short periods of poor drainage but not consistent bog like conditions. Full sun is best but WELL-CARED for Magnolias can tolerate mostly shade in rich soils. This means do not use Magnolias under walnut trees, in dry shade, or exposed to north winds on the north side of a house. Being one of the few broadleaf evergreens hardy in zone 6, Victoria Hardy Southern Magnolia has many landscape uses. Several trees planted in a row or group will make an awesome wind and visual screen without the pest problems of coniferous evergreens. If ice or snow damage occurs, Magnolias have the ability to grow back reasonably quickly as opposed to most coniferous evergreens. In fact, Magnolias will come back from the ground is completely cut down and new growth from water sprouts will be rapid. Magnolias also make a great specimen tree or background for flowers and shrubs. Magnolias can be planted near a house without worrying about damaging root systems; they are very easily pruneable if they start getting too big. This highly-rated small landscape tree is perfect somewhere on your property!
Bigleaf Magnolia (Magnolia macrophylla) features very large light green leaves that are the biggest simple leaf in North America measuring upto 36" long! They are native to pockets of the Appalachian mountains with perfect rich soils and protected from winds. One would think that plant like this would not do well in Kansas landscapes. However if given a little bit of wind protection, some watering, and decent soil, these trees will do fine and grow vigorously growing in sun or shade. Big leaf magnolias also produce large creamy white flowers and have silvery backs to their leaves adding to the appeal. With ideal conditions, a growth rate of 1 to 2 feet per year is possible. With more difficult conditions they will grow a few inches per year but still look attractive. There seems to be no other plant that can add a tropical feel like big leaf Magnolia. Magnolias in general are a family of plants that have been around for millions of years and are among the most primitive of all flowers. In fact, most magnolia flowers evolved before bees and are thus pollinated by beetles. Magnolias generally have no serious pests or diseases.