Hosta by far is the most popular and well-known shade plant in the United States. Many thousands of cultivars exist from original species native to China, Japan, and other forested areas in Asia. Hosta foliage arrises from a clump-forming root system and is often large and dramatic with many types of variegation. Flowers, born on tall stocks ranging in shades of white and purple, are equally attractive. Hostas grow best in rich, well-drained soils in full to partial shade. In Eastern Kansas with our average 40 inches of average rainfall, plants are drought tolerant if established in moisture-retentive high-quality soil. Dry-shade areas are best avoided. Afternoon sun with temperatures over 95 degrees F but likely burn the tips of hosta foliage rendering them unattractive for the rest of the year. There is no secondary growth by late summer after flowering and after buds have been set for next year. In northern parts of the country, hostas can handle full sun. In the Southern part of their range further South than zone 7, hosta can really struggle through the long summer heat unless conditions are perfect. Rabbits, deer, slugs, and snails can be a problem generally on small or un-established plants. Large-leaf robust varieties seem to outgrow browsing predators better than small dainty varieties. Methods of control are effective ranging from cages to deer repellents. Generally, a large established planting of hostas will be there for decades gradually getting thicker and denser without a need to divide. Many plantings have been in our display garden for 15-20 years with no weeds ever trying to grow in the shade of the foliage. Hosta foliage is susceptible to late spring freezes so try to cover if possible. During the Easter freeze of April, 2007, thousands of hosta were killed to the ground in eastern Kansas but all returned successfully by May from secondary buds. Hosta's newly unfurling foliage is considered edible when cooked like asparagus or eaten raw in salads. Hosta 'June' is a medium height cultivar. It features small (medium) spearhead-shaped leaves with irregular blue-green edges, chartreuse centers fading to white; lavender flowers. Heavy substance, slug resistant; tolerates partial sun.
Hosta by far is the most popular and well-known shade plant in the United States. Many thousands of cultivars exist from original species native to China, Japan, and other forested areas in Asia. Hosta foliage arrises from a clump-forming root system and is often large and dramatic with many types of variegation. Flowers, born on tall stocks ranging in shades of white and purple, are equally attractive. Hostas grow best in rich, well-drained soils in full to partial shade. In Eastern Kansas with our average 40 inches of average rainfall, plants are drought tolerant if established in moisture-retentive high-quality soil. Dry-shade areas are best avoided. Afternoon sun with temperatures over 95 degrees F but likely burn the tips of hosta foliage rendering them unattractive for the rest of the year. There is no secondary growth by late summer after flowering and after buds have been set for next year. In northern parts of the country, hostas can handle full sun. In the Southern part of their range further South than zone 7, hosta can really struggle through the long summer heat unless conditions are perfect. Rabbits, deer, slugs, and snails can be a problem generally on small or un-established plants. Large-leaf robust varieties seem to outgrow browsing predators better than small dainty varieties. Methods of control are effective ranging from cages to deer repellents. Generally, a large established planting of hostas will be there for decades gradually getting thicker and denser without a need to divide. Many plantings have been in our display garden for 15-20 years with no weeds ever trying to grow in the shade of the foliage. Hosta foliage is susceptible to late spring freezes so try to cover if possible. During the Easter freeze of April, 2007, thousands of hosta were killed to the ground in eastern Kansas but all returned successfully by May from secondary buds. Hosta's newly unfurling foliage is considered edible when cooked like asparagus or eaten raw in salads. Hosta 'Krossa Regal' is a large to giant hosta that grows in an upright, vase-shaped habit. Foliage is thick, waxy, pest resistant, and powdery-blue. Trumpet-shaped, lavender flowers bloom in mid to late summer on tall stalks.
Hosta by far is the most popular and well-known shade plant in the United States. Many thousands of cultivars exist from original species native to China, Japan, and other forested areas in Asia. Hosta foliage arrises from a clump-forming root system and is often large and dramatic with many types of variegation. Flowers, born on tall stocks ranging in shades of white and purple, are equally attractive. Hostas grow best in rich, well-drained soils in full to partial shade. In Eastern Kansas with our average 40 inches of average rainfall, plants are drought tolerant if established in moisture-retentive high-quality soil. Dry-shade areas are best avoided. Afternoon sun with temperatures over 95 degrees F but likely burn the tips of hosta foliage rendering them unattractive for the rest of the year. There is no secondary growth by late summer after flowering and after buds have been set for next year. In northern parts of the country, hostas can handle full sun. In the Southern part of their range further South than zone 7, hosta can really struggle through the long summer heat unless conditions are perfect. Rabbits, deer, slugs, and snails can be a problem generally on small or un-established plants. Large-leaf robust varieties seem to outgrow browsing predators better than small dainty varieties. Methods of control are effective ranging from cages to deer repellents. Generally, a large established planting of hostas will be there for decades gradually getting thicker and denser without a need to divide. Many plantings have been in our display garden for 15-20 years with no weeds ever trying to grow in the shade of the foliage. Hosta foliage is susceptible to late spring freezes so try to cover if possible. During the Easter freeze of April, 2007, thousands of hosta were killed to the ground in eastern Kansas but all returned successfully by May from secondary buds. Hosta's newly unfurling foliage is considered edible when cooked like asparagus or eaten raw in salads. Hosta 'Olive Bailey Langdon' is a large variety. Considered an improved Frances Williams with better color and less prone to burning. Large rounded leaves with powder blue centers and wide irregular gold margins under white blossoms; heavily corrugated with thick substance.
Hosta by far is the most popular and well-known shade plant in the United States. Many thousands of cultivars exist from original species native to China, Japan, and other forested areas in Asia. Hosta foliage arrises from a clump-forming root system and is often large and dramatic with many types of variegation. Flowers, born on tall stocks ranging in shades of white and purple, are equally attractive. Hostas grow best in rich, well-drained soils in full to partial shade. In Eastern Kansas with our average 40 inches of average rainfall, plants are drought tolerant if established in moisture-retentive high-quality soil. Dry-shade areas are best avoided. Afternoon sun with temperatures over 95 degrees F but likely burn the tips of hosta foliage rendering them unattractive for the rest of the year. There is no secondary growth by late summer after flowering and after buds have been set for next year. In northern parts of the country, hostas can handle full sun. In the Southern part of their range further South than zone 7, hosta can really struggle through the long summer heat unless conditions are perfect. Rabbits, deer, slugs, and snails can be a problem generally on small or un-established plants. Large-leaf robust varieties seem to outgrow browsing predators better than small dainty varieties. Methods of control are effective ranging from cages to deer repellents. Generally, a large established planting of hostas will be there for decades gradually getting thicker and denser without a need to divide. Many plantings have been in our display garden for 15-20 years with no weeds ever trying to grow in the shade of the foliage. Hosta foliage is susceptible to late spring freezes so try to cover if possible. During the Easter freeze of April, 2007, thousands of hosta were killed to the ground in eastern Kansas but all returned successfully by May from secondary buds. Hosta's newly unfurling foliage is considered edible when cooked like asparagus or eaten raw in salads.
Hosta by far is the most popular and well-known shade plant in the United States. Many thousands of cultivars exist from original species native to China, Japan, and other forested areas in Asia. Hosta foliage arrises from a clump-forming root system and is often large and dramatic with many types of variegation. Flowers, born on tall stocks ranging in shades of white and purple, are equally attractive. Hostas grow best in rich, well-drained soils in full to partial shade. In Eastern Kansas with our average 40 inches of average rainfall, plants are drought tolerant if established in moisture-retentive high-quality soil. Dry-shade areas are best avoided. Afternoon sun with temperatures over 95 degrees F but likely burn the tips of hosta foliage rendering them unattractive for the rest of the year. There is no secondary growth by late summer after flowering and after buds have been set for next year. In northern parts of the country, hostas can handle full sun. In the Southern part of their range further South than zone 7, hosta can really struggle through the long summer heat unless conditions are perfect. Rabbits, deer, slugs, and snails can be a problem generally on small or un-established plants. Large-leaf robust varieties seem to outgrow browsing predators better than small dainty varieties. Methods of control are effective ranging from cages to deer repellents. Generally, a large established planting of hostas will be there for decades gradually getting thicker and denser without a need to divide. Many plantings have been in our display garden for 15-20 years with no weeds ever trying to grow in the shade of the foliage. Hosta foliage is susceptible to late spring freezes so try to cover if possible. During the Easter freeze of April, 2007, thousands of hosta were killed to the ground in eastern Kansas but all returned successfully by May from secondary buds. Hosta's newly unfurling foliage is considered edible when cooked like asparagus or eaten raw in salads. Hosta 'Sagae' is a large, vase-shaped hosta cultivar. It features a medium to tall mound of large of variegated frosty blue-green foliage. Foliage mound will typically spread over time to 36" wide or more.
Hosta by far is the most popular and well-known shade plant in the United States. Many thousands of cultivars exist from original species native to China, Japan, and other forested areas in Asia. Hosta foliage arrises from a clump-forming root system and is often large and dramatic with many types of variegation. Flowers, born on tall stocks ranging in shades of white and purple, are equally attractive. Hostas grow best in rich, well-drained soils in full to partial shade. In Eastern Kansas with our average 40 inches of average rainfall, plants are drought tolerant if established in moisture-retentive high-quality soil. Dry-shade areas are best avoided. Afternoon sun with temperatures over 95 degrees F but likely burn the tips of hosta foliage rendering them unattractive for the rest of the year. There is no secondary growth by late summer after flowering and after buds have been set for next year. In northern parts of the country, hostas can handle full sun. In the Southern part of their range further South than zone 7, hosta can really struggle through the long summer heat unless conditions are perfect. Rabbits, deer, slugs, and snails can be a problem generally on small or un-established plants. Large-leaf robust varieties seem to outgrow browsing predators better than small dainty varieties. Methods of control are effective ranging from cages to deer repellents. Generally, a large established planting of hostas will be there for decades gradually getting thicker and denser without a need to divide. Many plantings have been in our display garden for 15-20 years with no weeds ever trying to grow in the shade of the foliage. Hosta foliage is susceptible to late spring freezes so try to cover if possible. During the Easter freeze of April, 2007, thousands of hosta were killed to the ground in eastern Kansas but all returned successfully by May from secondary buds. Hosta's newly unfurling foliage is considered edible when cooked like asparagus or eaten raw in salads. Hosta 'Sum and Substance' is a giant! It features huge chartreuse round leaves with heavy puckering, very thick substance; slug resistant. Vigorous; requires some sun to enhance its golden color. Lavender flowers on tall 50" scapes.
Hosta by far is the most popular and well-known shade plant in the United States. Many thousands of cultivars exist from original species native to China, Japan, and other forested areas in Asia. Hosta foliage arrises from a clump-forming root system and is often large and dramatic with many types of variegation. Flowers, born on tall stocks ranging in shades of white and purple, are equally attractive. Hostas grow best in rich, well-drained soils in full to partial shade. In Eastern Kansas with our average 40 inches of average rainfall, plants are drought tolerant if established in moisture-retentive high-quality soil. Dry-shade areas are best avoided. Afternoon sun with temperatures over 95 degrees F but likely burn the tips of hosta foliage rendering them unattractive for the rest of the year. There is no secondary growth by late summer after flowering and after buds have been set for next year. In northern parts of the country, hostas can handle full sun. In the Southern part of their range further South than zone 7, hosta can really struggle through the long summer heat unless conditions are perfect. Rabbits, deer, slugs, and snails can be a problem generally on small or un-established plants. Large-leaf robust varieties seem to outgrow browsing predators better than small dainty varieties. Methods of control are effective ranging from cages to deer repellents. Generally, a large established planting of hostas will be there for decades gradually getting thicker and denser without a need to divide. Many plantings have been in our display garden for 15-20 years with no weeds ever trying to grow in the shade of the foliage. Hosta foliage is susceptible to late spring freezes so try to cover if possible. During the Easter freeze of April, 2007, thousands of hosta were killed to the ground in eastern Kansas but all returned successfully by May from secondary buds. Hosta's newly unfurling foliage is considered edible when cooked like asparagus or eaten raw in salads. Hosta 'T-Rex' is a giant. It forms absolutely huge clumps of blue-green leaves measuring 18" long and 14"wide! Wonderful puckering and deep veins add interest, a focal point for any garden. Near white flowers.
Hosta by far is the most popular and well-known shade plant in the United States. Many thousands of cultivars exist from original species native to China, Japan, and other forested areas in Asia. Hosta foliage arrises from a clump-forming root system and is often large and dramatic with many types of variegation. Flowers, born on tall stocks ranging in shades of white and purple, are equally attractive. Hostas grow best in rich, well-drained soils in full to partial shade. In Eastern Kansas with our average 40 inches of average rainfall, plants are drought tolerant if established in moisture-retentive high-quality soil. Dry-shade areas are best avoided. Afternoon sun with temperatures over 95 degrees F but likely burn the tips of hosta foliage rendering them unattractive for the rest of the year. There is no secondary growth by late summer after flowering and after buds have been set for next year. In northern parts of the country, hostas can handle full sun. In the Southern part of their range further South than zone 7, hosta can really struggle through the long summer heat unless conditions are perfect. Rabbits, deer, slugs, and snails can be a problem generally on small or un-established plants. Large-leaf robust varieties seem to outgrow browsing predators better than small dainty varieties. Methods of control are effective ranging from cages to deer repellents. Generally, a large established planting of hostas will be there for decades gradually getting thicker and denser without a need to divide. Many plantings have been in our display garden for 15-20 years with no weeds ever trying to grow in the shade of the foliage. Hosta foliage is susceptible to late spring freezes so try to cover if possible. During the Easter freeze of April, 2007, thousands of hosta were killed to the ground in eastern Kansas but all returned successfully by May from secondary buds. Hosta's newly unfurling foliage is considered edible when cooked like asparagus or eaten raw in salads. Hosta 'Wide Brim' is a medium variety with heart-shaped green leaves with wide irregular creamy-yellow margins. Good substance with slight puckering under pale lavender flowers.
***Description for this plant available with future update!***>>>>> Spring Meadows nursery says "As the name suggests, Incrediball Storm Proof smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) tackles the most common complaint people have with the genus: while other smooth hydrangeas flop, this incredibly stout and sturdy stemmed beauty holds its blooms upright during—and even after—heavy summer downpours. Though its blooms aren’t quite as gigantic as the original Incrediball®, they are so numerous and large in proportion to this compact variety that it absolutely lives up to the expectations associated with this now household name. It's a robust, vigorous, heavy bloomer with a rounder, denser habit than other smooth hydrangeas."
***Description for this plant available with future update!***>>>>> Spring Meadows nursery says "Literally, a huge improvement over 'Annabelle'! Our goal in creating Incrediball® hydrangea was to develop a non-flopping version of 'Annabelle.' What we ultimately selected, though, was even better: a powerhouse of a plant that not only has strong, sturdy, supportive stems, but also extra large flowers. On mature plants, they can become as large as basketballs! Blooms age to a beautiful jade green through summer and fall. Don't let its good looks fool you, though - this North American native is super hardy and tough as nails."
Quick Fire Fab® Panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata 'Quick Fire Fab') is the first to bloom! Quick Fire blooms about a month before any other panicle hydrangea. Flowers open pure white then turn pink, and will be an extremely dark rosy-pink in the fall. The flower color on Quick Fire hydrangea is not affected by soil pH. Blooms on this super-hardy and easy to grow hydrangea are produced on new wood, which means that you will see flowers even after even the harshest winters. Beautiful for use as a cut (fresh or dried) flower. Unlike other panicle hydrangeas, Quick Fire Fab also has excellent fall foliage color for a final hurrah before winter. This is a very hardy flowering shrub good for full sun locations - the hotter your climate, however, the more shade the plant will require. Good for groupings and in mass plantings, shrub and perennial borders, as a specimen, a screen or a hedge. Panicle hydrangeas like Quick Fire Fab are very easy to care for. They can grow in most soils, provided they are well-drained. Panicle hydrangeas bloom on new wood, which means they can be pruned in spring and will still bloom that season. We recommend cutting them back by about one-third their total height in early spring, just as the new growth is beginning to emerge on the stems. This will serve to remove the spent blooms and ensure that the season's growth comes from the heavier, thicker buds further down the plant. If blooms do not age to pink and red, this indicates that the plant is either in too much shade, that it experienced drought stress, or that night time temperatures were unusually high. In Eastern Kansas, this cultivar performs reasonably well. Heat and drought are tolerated if in morning sun. In full sun provide ample water and expect some leaf burn if summer temperatures exceed 100 degrees F. Cold tolerance is no problem. No disease or pest problems. All Proven Winners® plants are legally propagated, healthy and vigorous, true to name, and tagged with color pictures and growing information.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***>>>>>Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is a large coarse-textured deciduous shrub growing to 3-10 feet tall with an open crown native to the southeastern United States. Cone-shaped flower clusters emerge bright white in mid-summer. Flowers age to progressively darker shades of pink and by autumn and become persistent dried flower-heads in winter. The leaves are dark green on top and silvery-white underneath. Plants in shade have larger leaves than those grown in sun. In sun, if drought stress occurs, foliage becomes tattered, burnt, and yellowish; ruining potential fall color. The leaves of healthy plants turn rich shades of red, bronze and purple in autumn that persist until about 25 degrees F usually into late November in Kansas. The plant slowly sprouts shoots from underground stolons and often grows in colonies in ideal conditions but this is rare in Kansas. Young stems are covered in a felt-like light brown bark while the larger stems develop an attractive cinnamon-tan-orange bark that shreds and peels in thin flakes. Hydrangea quercifolia is best grown in rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade. Drought and full sun tolerance are average but greatly improved with rich, moisture-retentive foresty soils. Plant near gutter downspouts for an extra boost of water. It will tolerate drought, but may not flower. In Eastern Kansas, Cold tolerance is no problem. No significant disease or pest problems. Of all the hydrangeas, this is probably the toughest! Several improved cultivars have been developed.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***>>>>>Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is a large coarse-textured deciduous shrub growing to 3-10 feet tall with an open crown native to the southeastern United States. Cone-shaped flower clusters emerge bright white in mid-summer. Flowers age to progressively darker shades of pink and by autumn and become persistent dried flower-heads in winter. The leaves are dark green on top and silvery-white underneath. Plants in shade have larger leaves than those grown in sun. In sun, if drought stress occurs, foliage becomes tattered, burnt, and yellowish; ruining potential fall color. The leaves of healthy plants turn rich shades of red, bronze and purple in autumn that persist until about 25 degrees F usually into late November in Kansas. The plant slowly sprouts shoots from underground stolons and often grows in colonies in ideal conditions but this is rare in Kansas. Young stems are covered in a felt-like light brown bark while the larger stems develop an attractive cinnamon-tan-orange bark that shreds and peels in thin flakes. Hydrangea quercifolia is best grown in rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade. Drought and full sun tolerance are average but greatly improved with rich, moisture-retentive foresty soils. Plant near gutter downspouts for an extra boost of water. It will tolerate drought, but may not flower. In Eastern Kansas, Cold tolerance is no problem. No significant disease or pest problems. Of all the hydrangeas, this is probably the toughest! Several improved cultivars have been developed.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***>>>>>Oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is a large coarse-textured deciduous shrub growing to 3-10 feet tall with an open crown native to the southeastern United States. Cone-shaped flower clusters emerge bright white in mid-summer. Flowers age to progressively darker shades of pink and by autumn and become persistent dried flower-heads in winter. The leaves are dark green on top and silvery-white underneath. Plants in shade have larger leaves than those grown in sun. In sun, if drought stress occurs, foliage becomes tattered, burnt, and yellowish; ruining potential fall color. The leaves of healthy plants turn rich shades of red, bronze and purple in autumn that persist until about 25 degrees F usually into late November in Kansas. The plant slowly sprouts shoots from underground stolons and often grows in colonies in ideal conditions but this is rare in Kansas. Young stems are covered in a felt-like light brown bark while the larger stems develop an attractive cinnamon-tan-orange bark that shreds and peels in thin flakes. Hydrangea quercifolia is best grown in rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade. Drought and full sun tolerance are average but greatly improved with rich, moisture-retentive foresty soils. Plant near gutter downspouts for an extra boost of water. It will tolerate drought, but may not flower. In Eastern Kansas, Cold tolerance is no problem. No significant disease or pest problems. Of all the hydrangeas, this is probably the toughest! Several improved cultivars have been developed.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Sunburst Hypericum, is also known as Hypericum frondosum 'Sunburst'
***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
Gold Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas 'Sweet Caroline Light Green') is one of the most rapidly growing annuals in out library: it can fill a large annual planting bed after 1 month when planted in May and taking advantage of early summer rains, heat and humidity. It is also great cascading down retaining walls or large pots! Occasional pink flowers do occur but are usually second place behind the attractive foliage. It can handle some drought due to its "sweet potato" underground tuber! It can also be a patio plant, house plant, or hanging basket. 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 30 degrees for more than a few hours; move into a cold garage or basement over the winter with minimal watering. Allow to go dormant as needed with little care, just cut off dead foliage and place back out in April or May with a time-release fertilizer.
Beach Morning Glory / Railroad Vine (Ipomoea pes-caprae) is the most rapidly growing annual in out library capable of growing 30-50' in one summer! (100-200' in native coastal dune habitats) It can fill a large annual planting bed with bright green foliage after 1 month when planted in May and taking advantage of early summer rains, heat and humidity. It is also great cascading down retaining walls or large pots! Deep root system will grow in pure sand or typical garden soil provided that regular moisture is available. In Eastern Kansas, typically our 40 inches of rainfall is sufficient without extra water in good soils. The magenta flowers are 2-3" across and absolutely beautiful and will get noticed; blooms sporadically in early summer but covered by late summer and early fall in Kansas. Who would have thought that a coastal sand dune stabilization plant would thrive or even grow at all in Kansas? It has been trialed here as a hanging basket plant, cascading wall plant, and mass groundcover in annual beds. If growing as a potted plant and trying to overwinter, it is very difficult as these plants do not like low humidity or low light; best to replace each year.
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***
Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica) is a native shrub found along creeks and streams in the eastern United States. Foliage consists of a simple leaf, medium to light green, and usually glossy. White cascading flowers cover the plants in spring for about a month with pollinators flocking to the occasion. Fall color is outstanding shades of red and purple. Leaves cling to the stem and are very persistent down to about 10-15°F often finally dropping in December. Stems during the winter take on an attractive reddish-brown and green coloring. Sweetspire is truly a four-season shrub! In the landscape, combine with native plants, hardy tropicals, or summer flowering plants. These plants can tolerate saturated soils and are perfect for rain gardens or any other rich soil garden areas. North exposures are fine in zone 6 but not any further north as winter kill becomes a problem in zone 5. Water is usually the limiting factor in southern climates zone 7-9. Sweetspire is highly sensitive to iron chlorosis so avoid alkaline soils. In our eastern Kansas climate, we avoid afternoon sun and dry soils. Full shade is tolerated but not dry shade. Fall color will be reduced or nonexistent in full shade. Morning sun is best for avoiding leaf burn but still allowing fall coloring. Overall, this is a great garden plant when sited in the right conditions. Itea virginica 'Henry's Garnet' has larger flowers and better fall color compared to the species.
Virginia sweetspire (Itea virginica) is a native shrub found along creeks and streams in the eastern United States. Foliage consists of a simple leaf, medium to light green, and usually glossy. White cascading flowers cover the plants in spring for about a month with pollinators flocking to the occasion. Fall color is outstanding shades of red and purple. Leaves cling to the stem and are very persistent down to about 10-15°F often finally dropping in December. Stems during the winter take on an attractive reddish-brown and green coloring. Sweetspire is truly a four-season shrub! In the landscape, combine with native plants, hardy tropicals, or summer flowering plants. These plants can tolerate saturated soils and are perfect for rain gardens or any other rich soil garden areas. North exposures are fine in zone 6 but not any further north as winter kill becomes a problem in zone 5. Water is usually the limiting factor in southern climates zone 7-9. Sweetspire is highly sensitive to iron chlorosis so avoid alkaline soils. In our eastern Kansas climate, we avoid afternoon sun and dry soils. Full shade is tolerated but not dry shade. Fall color will be reduced or nonexistent in full shade. Morning sun is best for avoiding leaf burn but still allowing fall coloring. Overall, this is a great garden plant when sited in the right conditions. Itea virginica 'Merlot' features more mounded, compact stature and more persistant burgundy fall color making it an improvement over older varieties such as the old favorite 'Henry's Garnet'. Flowers are scented!
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 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.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***
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!
***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'
Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia) is a beautiful summer flowering shrub that dies down to the ground as a perennial each year in Zone 6 Kansas. Flower colors include bright red, pink, magenta, purple, and white. Many cultivars have been released improving foliage color, disease resistance, and flower blooming length. Newer cultivars now have maroon or reddish foliage adding interest before blooming. Beautiful fall color is often overlooked; shades of red, orange, and purple develop when Night temperatures reach into the 40s. In Kansas, crape myrtles grow best with hot south or west exposures or on south facing berms or hillsides. But they are suitable in any garden location as long as they are in full sun, they will build enough energy to come back from complete winter top-kill each year. Generally are 40 inches of rain per year is sufficient without extra watering, but if drought conditions occur, flowering will be reduced or shortened. Brief periods of excessive water and saturated soils are tolerated adding to their versatility. Many people from the south associate Crapemyrtles as a tree. That is true that in Texas and much of the Southeast, beautiful tree forms with exfoliating bark will occur because of mild winters. In Oklahoma and Arkansas for example crapemyrtles are usually grown as large shrubs experiencing major winterkill every 5-10 years. In Kansas and Missouri, or where temperatures regularly get to 0°, all top growth will die back and they will be grown as a woody perennial. After flowering and beautiful fall color is dropped, many people leave crapemyrtles throughout the winter to enjoy the winter interest of the dried seed heads. By March or April, cut plants close to the ground and watch for new growth. Flowering occurs on new wood and is much larger and more dramatic on sprouts from the ground. Flowers are often twice as big when grown this way. In the past, only fast-growing tree size cultivars for appropriate and Kansas because they have the ability to recover the fastest from complete winterkill and grow into a flowering-sized shrub by July. Now there are dwarf cultivars that are wood-hardy to -10 zone 6 for those not wanting to worry about winterkill. No disease or pest problems. Crapemyrtle are awesome for pollinators in the late season garden and especially effective when combined with vitex, butterfly bush, and/or caryopteris. Lagerstroemia 'Center Stage Coral' is a new Proven Winners® release. This 3-5' shrub features deep black foliage and pink flowers with yellow stamens; it truly will command center stage in your landscape. Note that this cultivar is wood hardy down to zone 6b. All Proven Winners® plants are legally propagated, healthy and vigorous, true to name, and tagged with color pictures and growing information.
Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia) is a beautiful summer flowering shrub that dies down to the ground as a perennial each year in Zone 6 Kansas. Flower colors include bright red, pink, magenta, purple, and white. Many cultivars have been released improving foliage color, disease resistance, and flower blooming length. Newer cultivars now have maroon or reddish foliage adding interest before blooming. Beautiful fall color is often overlooked; shades of red, orange, and purple develop when Night temperatures reach into the 40s. In Kansas, crape myrtles grow best with hot south or west exposures or on south facing berms or hillsides. But they are suitable in any garden location as long as they are in full sun, they will build enough energy to come back from complete winter top-kill each year. Generally are 40 inches of rain per year is sufficient without extra watering, but if drought conditions occur, flowering will be reduced or shortened. Brief periods of excessive water and saturated soils are tolerated adding to their versatility. Many people from the south associate Crapemyrtles as a tree. That is true that in Texas and much of the Southeast, beautiful tree forms with exfoliating bark will occur because of mild winters. In Oklahoma and Arkansas for example crapemyrtles are usually grown as large shrubs experiencing major winterkill every 5-10 years. In Kansas and Missouri, or where temperatures regularly get to 0°, all top growth will die back and they will be grown as a woody perennial. After flowering and beautiful fall color is dropped, many people leave crapemyrtles throughout the winter to enjoy the winter interest of the dried seed heads. By March or April, cut plants close to the ground and watch for new growth. Flowering occurs on new wood and is much larger and more dramatic on sprouts from the ground. Flowers are often twice as big when grown this way. In the past, only fast-growing tree size cultivars for appropriate and Kansas because they have the ability to recover the fastest from complete winterkill and grow into a flowering-sized shrub by July. Now there are dwarf cultivars that are wood-hardy to -10 zone 6 for those not wanting to worry about winterkill. No disease or pest problems. Crapemyrtle are awesome for pollinators in the late season garden and especially effective when combined with vitex, butterfly bush, and/or caryopteris. Lagerstroemia 'Center Stage Red' is a new Proven Winners® release. This 3-5' shrub features deep black foliage and glowing red flowers; it truly will command center stage in your landscape. Note that this cultivar is wood hardy down to zone 6b. All Proven Winners® plants are legally propagated, healthy and vigorous, true to name, and tagged with color pictures and growing information.
Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia) is a beautiful summer flowering shrub that dies down to the ground as a perennial each year in Zone 6 Kansas. Flower colors include bright red, pink, magenta, purple, and white. Many cultivars have been released improving foliage color, disease resistance, and flower blooming length. Newer cultivars now have maroon or reddish foliage adding interest before blooming. Beautiful fall color is often overlooked; shades of red, orange, and purple develop when Night temperatures reach into the 40s. In Kansas, crape myrtles grow best with hot south or west exposures or on south facing berms or hillsides. But they are suitable in any garden location as long as they are in full sun, they will build enough energy to come back from complete winter top-kill each year. Generally are 40 inches of rain per year is sufficient without extra watering, but if drought conditions occur, flowering will be reduced or shortened. Brief periods of excessive water and saturated soils are tolerated adding to their versatility. Many people from the south associate Crapemyrtles as a tree. That is true that in Texas and much of the Southeast, beautiful tree forms with exfoliating bark will occur because of mild winters. In Oklahoma and Arkansas for example crapemyrtles are usually grown as large shrubs experiencing major winterkill every 5-10 years. In Kansas and Missouri, or where temperatures regularly get to 0°F, all top growth will die back and they will be grown as a woody perennial. After flowering and beautiful fall color is dropped, many people leave crapemyrtles throughout the winter to enjoy the winter interest of the dried seed heads. By March or April, cut plants close to the ground and watch for new growth. Flowering occurs on new wood and is much larger and more dramatic on sprouts from the ground. Flowers are often twice as big when grown this way. In the past, only fast-growing tree size cultivars for appropriate and Kansas because they have the ability to recover the fastest from complete winterkill and grow into a flowering-sized shrub by July. Now there are dwarf cultivars that are wood-hardy to -10 zone 6 for those not wanting to worry about winterkill. No disease or pest problems. Crapemyrtle are awesome for pollinators in the late season garden and especially effective when combined with vitex, butterfly bush, and/or caryopteris. Lagerstroemia 'Dark Roast' is a Walters Gardens, Inc. selection and part of its BARISTA® Collection. It features dark foliage with leaves having red undertones, especially near the tips of the stems. In late summer to early fall, bright fuchsia pink flowers are produced over the fully rounded, compact habit. This is a dwarf selection growing 18-30" tall and wood hardy to about zone 6b. (estimated)
Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia) is a beautiful summer flowering shrub that dies down to the ground as a perennial each year in Zone 6 Kansas. Flower colors include bright red, pink, magenta, purple, and white. Many cultivars have been released improving foliage color, disease resistance, and flower blooming length. Newer cultivars now have maroon or reddish foliage adding interest before blooming. Beautiful fall color is often overlooked; shades of red, orange, and purple develop when Night temperatures reach into the 40s. In Kansas, crape myrtles grow best with hot south or west exposures or on south facing berms or hillsides. But they are suitable in any garden location as long as they are in full sun, they will build enough energy to come back from complete winter top-kill each year. Generally are 40 inches of rain per year is sufficient without extra watering, but if drought conditions occur, flowering will be reduced or shortened. Brief periods of excessive water and saturated soils are tolerated adding to their versatility. Many people from the south associate Crapemyrtles as a tree. That is true that in Texas and much of the Southeast, beautiful tree forms with exfoliating bark will occur because of mild winters. In Oklahoma and Arkansas for example crapemyrtles are usually grown as large shrubs experiencing major winterkill every 5-10 years. In Kansas and Missouri, or where temperatures regularly get to 0°, all top growth will die back and they will be grown as a woody perennial. After flowering and beautiful fall color is dropped, many people leave crapemyrtles throughout the winter to enjoy the winter interest of the dried seed heads. By March or April, cut plants close to the ground and watch for new growth. Flowering occurs on new wood and is much larger and more dramatic on sprouts from the ground. Flowers are often twice as big when grown this way. In the past, only fast-growing tree size cultivars for appropriate and Kansas because they have the ability to recover the fastest from complete winterkill and grow into a flowering-sized shrub by July. Now there are dwarf cultivars that are wood-hardy to -10 zone 6 for those not wanting to worry about winterkill. No disease or pest problems. Crapemyrtle are awesome for pollinators in the late season garden and especially effective when combined with vitex, butterfly bush, and/or caryopteris. Lagerstroemia indica 'Pink Velour', developed by Dr. Carl Whitcomb, has deep pink long-lasting flowers. Deep wine red leaves emerge in spring and age to dark purplish green creating quite a contrast with bright flowers.
Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia) is a beautiful summer flowering shrub that dies down to the ground as a perennial each year in Zone 6 Kansas. Flower colors include bright red, pink, magenta, purple, and white. Many cultivars have been released improving foliage color, disease resistance, and flower blooming length. Newer cultivars now have maroon or reddish foliage adding interest before blooming. Beautiful fall color is often overlooked; shades of red, orange, and purple develop when Night temperatures reach into the 40s. In Kansas, crape myrtles grow best with hot south or west exposures or on south facing berms or hillsides. But they are suitable in any garden location as long as they are in full sun, they will build enough energy to come back from complete winter top-kill each year. Generally are 40 inches of rain per year is sufficient without extra watering, but if drought conditions occur, flowering will be reduced or shortened. Brief periods of excessive water and saturated soils are tolerated adding to their versatility. Many people from the south associate Crapemyrtles as a tree. That is true that in Texas and much of the Southeast, beautiful tree forms with exfoliating bark will occur because of mild winters. In Oklahoma and Arkansas for example crapemyrtles are usually grown as large shrubs experiencing major winterkill every 5-10 years. In Kansas and Missouri, or where temperatures regularly get to 0°, all top growth will die back and they will be grown as a woody perennial. After flowering and beautiful fall color is dropped, many people leave crapemyrtles throughout the winter to enjoy the winter interest of the dried seed heads. By March or April, cut plants close to the ground and watch for new growth. Flowering occurs on new wood and is much larger and more dramatic on sprouts from the ground. Flowers are often twice as big when grown this way. In the past, only fast-growing tree size cultivars for appropriate and Kansas because they have the ability to recover the fastest from complete winterkill and grow into a flowering-sized shrub by July. Now there are dwarf cultivars that are wood-hardy to -10 zone 6 for those not wanting to worry about winterkill. No disease or pest problems. Crapemyrtle are awesome for pollinators in the late season garden and especially effective when combined with vitex, butterfly bush, and/or caryopteris. Lagerstroemia indica 'Red Rocket', developed by Dr. Carl Whitcomb, features brilliant cherry-red flowers with dark green foliage. It is one of the fastest growing crape myrtles reaching 4-6' in one season when cut to the ground in Kansas.
Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia) is a beautiful summer flowering shrub that dies down to the ground as a perennial each year in Zone 6 Kansas. Flower colors include bright red, pink, magenta, purple, and white. Many cultivars have been released improving foliage color, disease resistance, and flower blooming length. Newer cultivars now have maroon or reddish foliage adding interest before blooming. Beautiful fall color is often overlooked; shades of red, orange, and purple develop when Night temperatures reach into the 40s. In Kansas, crape myrtles grow best with hot south or west exposures or on south facing berms or hillsides. But they are suitable in any garden location as long as they are in full sun, they will build enough energy to come back from complete winter top-kill each year. Generally are 40 inches of rain per year is sufficient without extra watering, but if drought conditions occur, flowering will be reduced or shortened. Brief periods of excessive water and saturated soils are tolerated adding to their versatility. Many people from the south associate Crapemyrtles as a tree. That is true that in Texas and much of the Southeast, beautiful tree forms with exfoliating bark will occur because of mild winters. In Oklahoma and Arkansas for example crapemyrtles are usually grown as large shrubs experiencing major winterkill every 5-10 years. In Kansas and Missouri, or where temperatures regularly get to 0°, all top growth will die back and they will be grown as a woody perennial. After flowering and beautiful fall color is dropped, many people leave crapemyrtles throughout the winter to enjoy the winter interest of the dried seed heads. By March or April, cut plants close to the ground and watch for new growth. Flowering occurs on new wood and is much larger and more dramatic on sprouts from the ground. Flowers are often twice as big when grown this way. In the past, only fast-growing tree size cultivars for appropriate and Kansas because they have the ability to recover the fastest from complete winterkill and grow into a flowering-sized shrub by July. Now there are dwarf cultivars that are wood-hardy to -10 zone 6 for those not wanting to worry about winterkill. No disease or pest problems. Crapemyrtle are awesome for pollinators in the late season garden and especially effective when combined with vitex, butterfly bush, and/or caryopteris. Lagerstroemia indica 'Rhapsody in Pink' was developed by Dr. Carl Whitcomb. This upright growing shrub features light pink summer flowers appearing against handsome foliage, which emerges a purple hue that persists most of the season.
Crapemyrtle (Lagerstroemia) is a beautiful summer flowering shrub that dies down to the ground as a perennial each year in Zone 6 Kansas. Flower colors include bright red, pink, magenta, purple, and white. Many cultivars have been released improving foliage color, disease resistance, and flower blooming length. Newer cultivars now have maroon or reddish foliage adding interest before blooming. Beautiful fall color is often overlooked; shades of red, orange, and purple develop when Night temperatures reach into the 40s. In Kansas, crape myrtles grow best with hot south or west exposures or on south facing berms or hillsides. But they are suitable in any garden location as long as they are in full sun, they will build enough energy to come back from complete winter top-kill each year. Generally are 40 inches of rain per year is sufficient without extra watering, but if drought conditions occur, flowering will be reduced or shortened. Brief periods of excessive water and saturated soils are tolerated adding to their versatility. Many people from the south associate Crapemyrtles as a tree. That is true that in Texas and much of the Southeast, beautiful tree forms with exfoliating bark will occur because of mild winters. In Oklahoma and Arkansas for example crapemyrtles are usually grown as large shrubs experiencing major winterkill every 5-10 years. In Kansas and Missouri, or where temperatures regularly get to 0°, all top growth will die back and they will be grown as a woody perennial. After flowering and beautiful fall color is dropped, many people leave crapemyrtles throughout the winter to enjoy the winter interest of the dried seed heads. By March or April, cut plants close to the ground and watch for new growth. Flowering occurs on new wood and is much larger and more dramatic on sprouts from the ground. Flowers are often twice as big when grown this way. In the past, only fast-growing tree size cultivars for appropriate and Kansas because they have the ability to recover the fastest from complete winterkill and grow into a flowering-sized shrub by July. Now there are dwarf cultivars that are wood-hardy to -10 zone 6 for those not wanting to worry about winterkill. No disease or pest problems. Crapemyrtle are awesome for pollinators in the late season garden and especially effective when combined with vitex, butterfly bush, and/or caryopteris.
***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.>>>>>
***Description for this plant available with future update!***
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.
***Description for this perennial available with future update!*** >>>>> must be kept very dry in winter when growing in climates with cold, wet winters.Testing cold hardiness in Lawrence, KS....will update in the future.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Purple Flowering Leptodermis, is also known as Leptodermis oblonga
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Gibraltar Bush Clover, is also known as Lespedeza thunbergii 'Gibraltar'
***Description for this perennial available with future update!*** >>>>> Blooms later (late summer to fall) than most other Liatris species. This species is distinguished from other Liatris species by its rough appearance and rounded individual flower clusters. Good winter drainage is important.
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.
***Tree descriptions available with future update!***Tuliptree, is also known as Liriodendron tulipifera
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!