***Description for this perennial available with future update!***
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***
***Description for this perennial 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 perennial 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.>>>>> 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.>>>>>
***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.
Yellow Flowering Magnolia (Magnolia x brooklynensis 'Yellow Bird') is a rare jewel in the landscape: a tree with giant canary yellow flowers! Yellow Bird is an upright, conical to pyramidal, large deciduous tree that can grow 40 feet tall in Kansas. This magnolia would be a fine residential specimen in sheltered locations with moist, rich soil with plenty of space to spread. 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.
Leatherleaf Mahonia (Mahonia bealei) is a slow-growing coarse-textured evergreen shrub with bright green holly-like leaflets. The leaves are prickly and make a fine barrier or specimen plant. Native to continental climates in China, Mahonia bealei can be invasive in Eastern US woods where its shade tolerance and slow evergreen growth eventually shade out native plants. This is not a problem in Kansas due to extreme winters and dryer conditions. Flowering tries to occur in mid to late winter in Kansas but are usually frozen before they can open. During a "once in 5 years" mild winter if temperatures stay above 0 degrees F, fragrant, lemon-yellow flowers do develop. Even more rare is to have a long enough warm spell in winter to allow the beautiful blackish-blue fruit to develop afterward. If they do, they will be enjoyed by birds but any small seedlings that do germinate are killed by ground freezes the next winter. Leatherleaf Mahonia is very drought tolerant when established making it an ideal dry-shade plant; the 40 inches of typical rainfall in Eastern Kansas is sufficient if planted in rototilled soils. This could be one of the most cold-tolerant broadleaf evergreens available! It survived -16 degrees F and a week of single digit highs in February, 2021 with no damage. It even maintains bright green foliage in winter opposed to a dingy brownish-green like some evergreens. In Eastern Kansas, this species performs WELL with just about everything nature has to challenge it! Heat and drought are tolerated if in shade or morning sun. Cold tolerance is no problem. Invasiveness is not a problem. No disease or pest problems. And again, this is a great evergreen plant for difficult dry-shade situations under mature trees where lawn won't grow.
Leatherleaf Mahonia (Mahonia x media 'Marvel') is a slow-growing coarse-textured evergreen shrub with bright green holly-like leaflets. The leaves are prickly and make a fine barrier or specimen plant. Native to continental climates in China, Mahonia bealei can be invasive in Eastern US woods where its shade tolerance and slow evergreen growth eventually shade out native plants. This is not a problem in Kansas due to extreme winters and dryer conditions. Flowering tries to occur in mid to late winter in Kansas but are usually frozen before they can open. During a "once in 5 years" mild winter if temperatures stay above 0 degrees F, fragrant, lemon-yellow flowers do develop. Even more rare is to have a long enough warm spell in winter to allow the beautiful blackish-blue fruit to develop afterward. If they do, they will be enjoyed by birds but any small seedlings that do germinate are killed by ground freezes the next winter. Leatherleaf Mahonia is very drought tolerant when established making it an ideal dry-shade plant; the 40 inches of typical rainfall in Eastern Kansas is sufficient if planted in rototilled soils. This could be one of the more cold-tolerant broadleaf evergreens available! 'Marvel' survived -16 degrees F and a week of single digit highs in February, 2021 but with complete foliage loss. It even maintains bright green foliage in winter opposed to a dingy brownish-green like some evergreens. In Eastern Kansas, this species performs WELL with just about everything nature has to challenge it! Heat and drought are tolerated if in shade or morning sun. Cold tolerance is no problem. Invasiveness is not a problem. No disease or pest problems. And again, this is a great evergreen plant for difficult dry-shade situations under mature trees where lawn won't grow. Mahonia x media 'Marvel' is an improved cultivar that is more compact than other varieties. Evergreen foliage is a medium glossy green and more fine-textures compared to the species. Frond-like leaves develop in whorls and are arranged along coarsely branched stems creating an architectural effect. It is unknown at this point (2022) if flowers and fruit will develop here in Kansas zone 6a but it is doubtful seeing how it tries to bloom in the winter similar to the species.
Hardy Manfreda (Manfreda virginica) are cute succulent perennials resembling a dwarf agave. The attractive green leaves are thick and fleshy with maroon spots extending to a point with a soft tip. Unusual, greenish-white, tubular flowers with conspicuous stamens are borne in a spike-like cluster atop 3-4' tall stalks. Some people prefer to trim the flowers for a more neat, compact look. Manfreda plants (also called American aloe) are native to eastern woods of Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas and much of the Southeast United States. This cold hardy succulent occupies an unusual niche: growing in poor shallow sandstone based soils in open woods and on sunny rock cliffs that dry out too quickly for most other plants to colonize. A good question is how does it find such isolated areas to colonize in the first place? Seeds are produced but do not spread far. Grow this small native gem in rock gardens, dry shade areas, in parking lot medians, in cracks between rocks, or on top of or in a retaining wall. It will re-seed to thicken the colony but only germinate in bare thin soils with no mulch. It will not tolerate competition in rich moist soils as other plants (or weeds) will shade it out. Most rock garden plants do not thrive indoors; aphids and spider mites seem to find them after a few months but overwintering indoors in a cool environment may work. If grown in pots and kept on the dry side, you may leave out all winter allowing to freeze solid; plants will go completely dormant and resume growth in the spring. Great low maintenance cold hardy succulent.
Hardy Tapioca (Manihot grahamii) is typically grown in warmer zones as a shrub or tree in the family Euphorbiaceae native to South America. Along with other tropicals and succulents in Kansas, hardy tapioca is usually grown as summer patio plant with amazing artistically whorled green leaves and small yellow flowers loved by bees. Water regularly and place in full sun or part shade. Protect from temperatures below 20 degrees F and move into a cold garage or basement over the winter with minimal watering. Do not allow the pot with rootball to freeze solid or go below 15 degrees for more than a few hours. Allow to go dormant as needed with little care, just cut off dead foliage/twigs and place back out in April or May with a time-release fertilizer. You may also propagate this plant easily by cutting off dormant twigs/branches and stuffing them into the ground. Notice that I didnt say rooting hormone or even being carefull was necessary! Landscapers also plant these as an annual in the ground for an enormous tropical effect with growth reaching 5-8' in one season from a 1gal container! It is possible to overwinter Manihot grahamii in the ground in Kansas as a woody perennial. In our trial gardens in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a), a one year established specimen planted on the South side of a house protected from winter moisture and mulched 12" thick with leaf 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 strait hours of 0 degrees F and mostly lower.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Morella cerifera, also known as Hardy Southern Wax Myrtle is a new evergreen addition to our Lawrence, KS zone 6 display garden. Very salt tolerant for areas near roads where salting is frequent in winter. ***Description for this plant available with future update!***
Create a tropical effect in your landscape with these large fast-growing cold hardy Musa basjoo! (also called Japanese fiber banana) Each leaf can be 6 feet long and 2 feet wide. Leave in ground and mulch 6" thick and they will return as perennials every year. If planting on the south side of a house in full sun, little protection is needed. These have proven hardy in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a) for over 20 years. In Eastern Kansas, typically our 40 inches of rainfall is sufficient without extra water in good soils. This species will tolerate some degree of drought but fastest growth will occur in rich well-drained soils with extra water and fertilizer provided during the summer. Great for summer wet areas in full sun or around swimming pools (creates no messes). Plants are capable of growing 15-18 feet by the end of summer when established and happy! A more realistic height is 7-12 feet under average conditions. Banana trees will slowly divide and send up offsets; this is a desirable sign that the banana tree is establishing well. If 1-2 feet of trunk is protected with a large pile of leaf mulch, you will get a flower followed by small inedible bananas the 2nd year on the largest trunk. The flowering trunk will die but the offsets will grow. Bananas will not tolerate excessively wet soils during dormancy. Sunburning can happen with summer temperatures over 100 degrees F but it will quickly outgrow the damage. Bananas need at least 1/2 day of full sun and protection from excessive winds to properly grow. Listed by many sources as hardy to zone 6 or 7, with proper mulching and placement near a foundation, you can easily grow this into zone 5 or possibly lower. In our trial gardens in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a), two well established specimens have thrived for 15 years and counting. 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. A hard ground freeze was inevitable; hundreds of plants around town survived this event returning a little late the following spring but otherwise just fine. Some were mulched with ground up leaf mulch, some were not.
Create a tropical effect in your landscape with these large fast-growing cold hardy Musa basjoo! (also called Japanese fiber banana) Each leaf can be 6 feet long and 2 feet wide. Leave in ground and mulch 6" thick and they will return as perennials every year. If planting on the south side of a house in full sun, little protection is needed. These have proven hardy in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a) for over 20 years. In Eastern Kansas, typically our 40 inches of rainfall is sufficient without extra water in good soils. This species will tolerate some degree of drought but fastest growth will occur in rich well-drained soils with extra water and fertilizer provided during the summer. Great for summer wet areas in full sun or around swimming pools (creates no messes). Plants are capable of growing 15-18 feet by the end of summer when established and happy! A more realistic height is 7-12 feet under average conditions. Banana trees will slowly divide and send up offsets; this is a desirable sign that the banana tree is establishing well. If 1-2 feet of trunk is protected with a large pile of leaf mulch, you will get a flower followed by small inedible bananas the 2nd year on the largest trunk. The flowering trunk will die but the offsets will grow. Bananas will not tolerate excessively wet soils during dormancy. Sunburning can happen with summer temperatures over 100 degrees F but it will quickly outgrow the damage. Bananas need at least 1/2 day of full sun and protection from excessive winds to properly grow. Listed by many sources as hardy to zone 6 or 7, with proper mulching and placement near a foundation, you can easily grow this into zone 5 or possibly lower. In our trial gardens in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a), two well established specimens have thrived for 15 years and counting. 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. A hard ground freeze was inevitable; hundreds of plants around town survived this event returning a little late the following spring but otherwise just fine. Some were mulched with ground up leaf mulch, some were not.
Create a tropical effect in your landscape with these large fast-growing cold hardy Musa basjoo! (also called Japanese fiber banana) Each leaf can be 6 feet long and 2 feet wide. Leave in ground and mulch 6" thick and they will return as perennials every year. If planting on the south side of a house in full sun, little protection is needed. These have proven hardy in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a) for over 20 years. In Eastern Kansas, typically our 40 inches of rainfall is sufficient without extra water in good soils. This species will tolerate some degree of drought but fastest growth will occur in rich well-drained soils with extra water and fertilizer provided during the summer. Great for summer wet areas in full sun or around swimming pools (creates no messes). Plants are capable of growing 15-18 feet by the end of summer when established and happy! A more realistic height is 7-12 feet under average conditions. Banana trees will slowly divide and send up offsets; this is a desirable sign that the banana tree is establishing well. If 1-2 feet of trunk is protected with a large pile of leaf mulch, you will get a flower followed by small inedible bananas the 2nd year on the largest trunk. The flowering trunk will die but the offsets will grow. Bananas will not tolerate excessively wet soils during dormancy. Sunburning can happen with summer temperatures over 100 degrees F but it will quickly outgrow the damage. Bananas need at least 1/2 day of full sun and protection from excessive winds to properly grow. Listed by many sources as hardy to zone 6 or 7, with proper mulching and placement near a foundation, you can easily grow this into zone 5 or possibly lower. In our trial gardens in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a), two well established specimens have thrived for 15 years and counting. 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. A hard ground freeze was inevitable; hundreds of plants around town survived this event returning a little late the following spring but otherwise just fine. Some were mulched with ground up leaf mulch, some were not.
Create a tropical effect in your landscape with the worlds most cold red-leafed banana. Fast-growing and cold hardy, Red Hardy Banana Tree (Musa sikkimensis 'Ever Red') features reddish maroon striped randomly along the leaves in various widths to create a spectacular show! Leave in ground and mulch 6-9" thick and they will return as perennials every year. In Eastern Kansas, typically our 40 inches of rainfall is sufficient without extra water in good soils. This species will tolerate some degree of drought but fastest growth will occur in rich well-drained soils with extra water and fertilizer provided during the summer. Great for wet areas in full sun or around swimming pools (creates no messes). Plants are typically grow 5-8 feet by the end of summer and upto 15 feet in year two. Banana trees will slowly divide and send up offsets; this is a desirable sign that the banana tree is establishing well. The flowering trunk will die but many new offsets will take its place. Bananas will not tolerate excessively wet soils during dormancy. Sunburning can happen with summer temperatures over 100 degrees F but it will quickly outgrow the damage. Bananas need at least 1/2 day of full sun and protection from excessive winds to properly grow.
This magnificent ornamental banana relative is more of a shrub than the typical banana "tree". The lower trunk is more swollen and grey-green leaves are more stiff and wind tolerant. Heights of about 3-5' with equal spread are typical in Kansas. This plant is grown more for its flowers but this rarely occurs in our colder climate: beautiful tropical foliage and growth form make up for it though! In Eastern Kansas, typically our 40 inches of rainfall is sufficient without extra water in good soils. This species will tolerate some degree of drought but fastest growth will occur in rich well-drained soils with extra water and fertilizer provided during the summer. Great for summer wet areas in full sun or around swimming pools (creates no messes). It will not tolerate excessively wet soils during dormancy. Chinese Yellow Banana will slowly divide and send up offsets close to the main trunk; this is a desirable sign that it is establishing well. Sunburning can happen with summer temperatures over 105 degrees F but it will quickly outgrow the damage. These bananas need at least 1/2 day of full sun and protection from excessive winds to properly grow. In our trial gardens in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a), a well established specimen has thrived for 5 years and counting. 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. A hard ground freeze was inevitable.
Nandina domestica is also called "Nandina" or "Heavenly Bamboo" despite not spreading or being related to bamboo at all. It is native to warm temperate climates in China. Bamboo-like foliage is very attractive with new growth emerging coppery peach with shades of pink and red in spring. During the summer, the foliage maintains a glossy deep to medium green color with no pest problems. White flowers appear which eventually turn into red fruits in the fall. Most birds do not like the fruit so they persist very well into winter down to about 0° F before freeze-drying to a reddish brown color and falling off. Often around Christmas time, the berries make a spectacular show combining classic colors of red and green in the winter landscape. The berries can be poisonous to some birds if they eat too many and all other food sources are depleted. This is a problem in your yard, please remove the fruits in the winter or before we have an arctic blast in which birds get desperate and will eat anything. The foliage is evergreen down to about -5° F and if colder, will simply become a deciduous shrub that year. If winter temperatures reach -10 or with strong winds, nandina will die to the ground like a perennial and come up from the base in April. In some parts of the country where winterkill never happens, nandina are invasive. (fruits spread by birds) This is likely in the Southeast and Texas south of zone 8b with plenty of rainfall. In those areas nandina will slowly take over the forest and displace native plants. There are many fruitless cultivars that can be used if invasiveness is a problem. In Kansas and in zone 5-7, This is never a problem because extreme winters keep the plant "in-check" and kill any seedlings trying to germinate. This shrub has a four-season appeal and is great for adding interest to Kansas landscapes in the winter. Best growth in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a) occurs when planted on South or West exposures benefiting from the hot micro climate. Nandina will also grow in just about any soil with full shade to full sun. If planted in full shade, growth will be very slow and extreme winters may kill them if not established; plant in spring only in this situation. Nandina look best in small to large groups. After established, its a "once it's there it's there forever" plant with very little maintenance. The only maintenance is cutting back winter kill occasionally or pruning to a more desirable mounded shape. It is worth noting that dwarf fruitless cultivars are less hardy in marginal zone 6 climates because of reduced ability to quickly recover from an occasional extreme winter.
Nandina domestica is also called "Nandina" or "Heavenly Bamboo" despite not spreading or being related to bamboo at all. It is native to warm temperate climates in China. Bamboo-like foliage is very attractive with new growth emerging coppery peach with shades of pink and red in spring. During the summer, the foliage maintains a glossy deep to medium green color with no pest problems. White flowers appear which eventually turn into red fruits in the fall. Most birds do not like the fruit so they persist very well into winter down to about 0° F before freeze-drying to a reddish brown color and falling off. Often around Christmas time, the berries make a spectacular show combining classic colors of red and green in the winter landscape. The berries can be poisonous to some birds if they eat too many and all other food sources are depleted. This is a problem in your yard, please remove the fruits in the winter or before we have an arctic blast in which birds get desperate and will eat anything. The foliage is evergreen down to about -5° F and if colder, will simply become a deciduous shrub that year. If winter temperatures reach -10 or with strong winds, nandina will die to the ground like a perennial and come up from the base in April. In some parts of the country where winterkill never happens, nandina are invasive. (fruits spread by birds) This is likely in the Southeast and Texas south of zone 8b with plenty of rainfall. In those areas nandina will slowly take over the forest and displace native plants. There are many fruitless cultivars that can be used if invasiveness is a problem. In Kansas and in zone 5-7, This is never a problem because extreme winters keep the plant "in-check" and kill any seedlings trying to germinate. This shrub has a four-season appeal and is great for adding interest to Kansas landscapes in the winter. Best growth in Lawrence, KS (zone 6a) occurs when planted on South or West exposures benefiting from the hot micro climate. Nandina will also grow in just about any soil with full shade to full sun. If planted in full shade, growth will be very slow and extreme winters may kill them if not established; plant in spring only in this situation. Nandina look best in small to large groups. After established, its a "once it's there it's there forever" plant with very little maintenance. The only maintenance is cutting back winter kill occasionally or pruning to a more desirable mounded shape. It is worth noting that dwarf fruitless cultivars are less hardy in marginal zone 6 climates because of reduced ability to quickly recover from an occasional extreme winter.
Golden Ball Cacti (Notocactus / Parodia leninghausii) are known for their bright yellow "soft" spines. Native to rocky hills and grasslands in high country Brazil, it's usually grown as a patio or house plant in Kansas. In the wild, established golden ball cacti are hardy to 30 degrees F for short periods of time. Grow in full sun with no extra watering except that which comes from rainfall. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow; plants can continue to grow taller and tolerate extremely root-bound pots but may need wind bracing. If repotting, make sure to use a sharp draining medium organic cactus mix with plenty of sand and perlite. To play is safe, potted plants are best moved in before night temperatures get below 45 degrees F. It is important to avoid the combination of wet and cold. Before extreme cold occurs, move to a bright interior window over the winter with no watering and keep above freezing. As a winter house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with just no waterings. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry between waterings for many years of carefree enjoyment. Plants grown permanently indoors may begin to elongate stretching for light and lose their spine color. It can be hard to reproduce the intense UV sunlight they need so moving outside for the summer is best. Generally if moving outside for the summer, allow 1-2 weeks of part shade or morning sun before placing in full sun. Plants with time to acclimate will thrive in full sun but be careful not to rush it or sunburning will occur. Potted plants are very low maintenance. I have never seen any insect problems on this plant.
***Description for this water plant available with future update!***>>>>>Texas Dawn Yellow Water Lily, is also known as Nymphaea 'Texas Dawn'
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***Kansas Native Missouri Primrose, is also known as Oenothera macrocarpa subsp. fremontii
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***Silver Blade Missouri Primrose, is also known as Oenothera macrocarpa subsp. incana 'Silver Blade'
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***>>>>>Missouri Primrose is a native wildflower with bright lemony yellow flowers occurring mostly in Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. native habitat includes limestone glades and bluffs, rocky prairies, and Great Plains. This wildflower also colonizes readily, will grow under the mover blades and can be found along state highways. Foliage is often a green to silver and also very attractive. Flowering is relatively short at 2 to 4 weeks but interesting green four-winged seed pods develop. These eventually break off and blow away spreading more seed. In the landscape, Missouri Primrose can be used in any dry soil situation including berms, hot south or west side of the house, or any other full sun area. These will grow in poor rocky, sandy or clayish soils and even rich organic soils with slightly increased root rot susceptibility. With our average 40 inches of rain per year in eastern Kansas, extra Irrigation is not recommended. Missouri Primrose can be planted in parking lot medians and other hell strips as a very durable groundcover. Combine with any other flower colors except yellow. There is quite a lot of diversity within the species so plants from different locales will have different foliage adapted to the site.
This prickly pear (Opuntia cacanapa 'Ellisiana') is truly spineless! Yes, completely spineless and free of glochids. The smooth green paddles and upright growth habit create a unique addition to the desert garden. The pads are sparsely spined, light green, and hardy to about 0 degrees F. This cactus has a place as one of the few upright cacti that can handle extreme cold. Ellisiana Spineless Prickly Pear is most often used as a patio plant in Kansas. Place in full sun with no extra watering except from rainfall. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow. Potted plants are hardy to at least 10 degrees F if kept dry so you can wait awhile to move these in for the winter. Then move into a cold garage, basement, or window over the winter with NO watering. Although un-tested by the author, this opuntia could survive in a microclimate under a south facing roof overhang kept completely dry in the winter and controlled water in the summer in zone 6a. Several plantings in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the Gathering Place endured temperatures as low as -11 degrees F along with prolonged cold (5 days of highs in the teens and lows in the single digits) in February, 2021. This interesting and "completely safe" cactus, when special ordered in quantity, can be used as an annual mass planting in the landscape. If grown as a patio or house plant, move to a bright interior window over the winter before extreme cold occurs with no watering and keep above freezing. If grown as a summer patio plant, move to a bright interior window over the winter before extreme cold occurs with no watering and keep above freezing. As a winter-only house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with just no waterings. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry between waterings for many years of carefree enjoyment. Pads are easy to propagate.
This prickly pear (Opuntia cacanapa 'Ellisiana') is truly spineless! Yes, completely spineless and free of glochids. The smooth green paddles and upright growth habit create a unique addition to the desert garden. The pads are sparsely spined, light green, and hardy to about 0 degrees F. This cactus has a place as one of the few upright cacti that can handle extreme cold. Ellisiana Spineless Prickly Pear is most often used as a patio plant in Kansas. Place in full sun with no extra watering except from rainfall. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow. Potted plants are hardy to at least 10 degrees F if kept dry so you can wait awhile to move these in for the winter. Then move into a cold garage, basement, or window over the winter with NO watering. Although un-tested by the author, this opuntia could survive in a microclimate under a south facing roof overhang kept completely dry in the winter and controlled water in the summer in zone 6a. Several plantings in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the Gathering Place endured temperatures as low as -11 degrees F along with prolonged cold (5 days of highs in the teens and lows in the single digits) in February, 2021. This interesting and "completely safe" cactus, when special ordered in quantity, can be used as an annual mass planting in the landscape. If grown as a patio or house plant, move to a bright interior window over the winter before extreme cold occurs with no watering and keep above freezing. If grown as a summer patio plant, move to a bright interior window over the winter before extreme cold occurs with no watering and keep above freezing. As a winter-only house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with just no waterings. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry between waterings for many years of carefree enjoyment. Pads are easy to propagate.
This prickly pear (Opuntia cacanapa 'Ellisiana') is truly spineless! Yes, completely spineless and free of glochids. The smooth green paddles and upright growth habit create a unique addition to the desert garden. The pads are sparsely spined, light green, and hardy to about 0 degrees F. This cactus has a place as one of the few upright cacti that can handle extreme cold. Ellisiana Spineless Prickly Pear is most often used as a patio plant in Kansas. Place in full sun with no extra watering except from rainfall. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow. Potted plants are hardy to at least 10 degrees F if kept dry so you can wait awhile to move these in for the winter. Then move into a cold garage, basement, or window over the winter with NO watering. Although un-tested by the author, this opuntia could survive in a microclimate under a south facing roof overhang kept completely dry in the winter and controlled water in the summer in zone 6a. Several plantings in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the Gathering Place endured temperatures as low as -11 degrees F along with prolonged cold (5 days of highs in the teens and lows in the single digits) in February, 2021. This interesting and "completely safe" cactus, when special ordered in quantity, can be used as an annual mass planting in the landscape. If grown as a patio or house plant, move to a bright interior window over the winter before extreme cold occurs with no watering and keep above freezing. If grown as a summer patio plant, move to a bright interior window over the winter before extreme cold occurs with no watering and keep above freezing. As a winter-only house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with just no waterings. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry between waterings for many years of carefree enjoyment. Pads are easy to propagate. This offering is for un-rooted cuttings (pads) Pads need a few days to dry and callus to be ready to root.
The yellow flowers, maroon long lasting fruits, and upright growth habit of this cactus (Opuntia engelmannii var. lindheimeri) create a unique addition to the desert garden. The pads are sparsely spined, light green, and hardy to about -5 degrees F. Native to arid soils in Texas and Oklahoma, this cactus has a place as one of the few upright cacti that can handle extreme cold. In fact, I have seen this species growing a in Lawrence, KS in desert gardens along a south wall of a house. With well drained soils and proper micro-climate, this cactus can handle our extreme cold and excess rainfall of Eastern Kansas.
***Description for this plant available with future update!***
These tiny perennial succulent cacti (Opuntia fragilis 'Potato') produce globe-shaped, spherical stems make this selection unique. 'Potato' prickly pear is virtually spineless. It is native to mountainous areas in Western Colorado. The olive green "pads" take on a lovely winter blush of purple in cold weather. Grow this small native gem in a Kansas rock garden, in cracks between rocks, or on top of or in a retaining wall. You may also grow in flat areas like in between stepping stones provided you used a gravelly or sandy base for the stones. It will not tolerate rich moist soils as other plants or weeds will shade it out. Root rot can occur during lengthy hot humid summer rainy periods. If grown as a summer patio plant, move to a bright interior window over the winter before extreme cold occurs with no watering and keep above freezing. As a winter-only house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with just no waterings. Upon moving outside the following spring, plants with plenty of 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. If grown in pots permanently outdoors, keep on the dry side in minerally sandy soil. You may leave out all winter allowing to freeze solid (Hardy to zone 4a); plants will go dormant and resume growth in the spring. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry between waterings for many years of carefree enjoyment. Little potato-like pads are easy to propagate. Our original plant came from Plant Delights Nursery in North Carolina and also available on their mail-order website.
Eastern Prickly Pear Cacti (Opuntia humifusa) have attractive green pads, brilliant yellow flowers in June, and pinkish maroon edible fruits afterward that last into winter. They are native to eastern woods of Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas and much of the Southeast United States. This cold hardy succulent occupies an unusual niche: growing in poor shallow sandstone based soils in open woods and on sunny rock cliffs that dry out too quickly for most other plants to colonize. Pads are sometimes carried off by animals and take root elsewhere. Grow this small native gem in rock gardens, dry shade areas, in parking lot medians, in cracks between rocks, or on top of or in a retaining wall. This species will grow in full sun or full shade! Although not picky about soils, just ensure that drainage is good. If grown in exterior pots and kept on the dry side, you may leave out all winter allowing to freeze solid; plants will go completely dormant and resume growth in the spring. Although these prickly pear do not have spines, they do have glochids. (painful bristles that come off and irritate the skin for a few days) Great low maintenance cold hardy and very versatile succulent.
Plains Prickly Pear Cacti (Opuntia macrorhiza) have attractive green pads, brilliant yellow flowers in June, and pinkish maroon edible fruits afterward that last into winter. They are native to much of the Great Plains from Texas to Minnesota. Pads are sometimes carried off by animals and take root elsewhere. Grow this small native gem in rock gardens, dry shade areas, in parking lot medians, in cracks between rocks, or on top of or in a retaining wall. Although not picky about soils, just ensure that drainage is good. If grown in exterior pots and kept on the dry side, you may leave out all winter allowing to freeze solid; plants will go completely dormant and resume growth in the spring. Although these prickly pear have spines and glochids. (painful bristles that come off and irritate the skin for a few days) so be careful around children and pets. Great low maintenance cold hardy and very versatile plant!
***Description for this plant available with future update!*** With extremely well drained soils and proper siting, this cactus seems to take our excess rainfall in Eastern Kansas. These and other hardy barrel cacti are perfect for a dry mounded xeriscape gardens under south facing roof overhangs where it gets no winter moisture. We are also testing this outside in our Lawrence, KS (zone 6a) crevice garden among other cold-hardy cacti, succulents, and yucca! Watch for future updates-Jan-2025
***Description for this plant available with future update!*** Cacti are known for their spines, unusual shapes and beautiful flowers. Both succulents and cacti store water in their fleshy tissues. And can survive long periods without water. Cacti and succulents are usually grown as a deck/patio plant or house plant in Kansas. Grow in full sun with little to no extra watering except that which comes from rainfall. Generally, plants may be brought out in Late May through Early October in our zone 6a Lawrence, KS climate. To play is safe, potted plants are best moved in before autumn leaves begin to drop and before night temperatures get below 45 degrees F. It is very important to avoid the combination of wet and cold. Move to a bright interior window over the winter with little to no watering and keep above 50 degrees F. As a winter house plant, it will look presentable all winter long with little to no waterings. As a permanent house plant, provide bright light and allow the soil to dry completely between waterings and you will get many years of carefree enjoyment. Plants grown permanently indoors may eventually begin to elongate stretching for light and lose their spine color. It can be hard to reproduce the intense UV sunlight they need when growing indoors so moving outside for the summer is best. Generally if moving outside for the summer, allow 1-2 weeks of part shade or morning sun before placing in full sun. Plants with time to acclimate will thrive in full sun but be careful not to rush it or sunburning may occur. Repotting may or may not be needed depending on how large you want the plant to grow; plants can continue to grow taller and tolerate extremely root-bound pots but may need wind bracing. If repotting, make sure to use a sharp draining low organic cactus mix with plenty of sand and perlite but avoid peat moss. The “soil” most commercial cacti are potted in to too peaty and light weight. This soil becomes hydrophobic and shrinks after becoming bone dry and difficult to re wet again. Cacti never grow in peat-based soils in nature; this “Soil” is only good for shipping because of the light weight. Potted plants are very low maintenance but watch for scale and mealybugs that may hide beneath the cover of spines. The best pest removal approach is to periodically wash the cactus off. Achieve this with a water nozzle or hose breaker turned mostly off to increase the pressure from the blast of water. This high-pressured water kills the pests without damaging the thick cactus skin. Here are some little-known or rare factoids about cacti: 1. The "spines" are actually modified leaves filled with sap at first, then quickly drying out to form the spines! 2. Many cacti have bright colored flowers that mainly attract bees, while some tubular flowering types attract hummingbirds and bats. 3. Late on the evolutionary timeline, cacti fossils are rare to non-existent. Cacti are native almost exclusively to the Americas, while succulents can include a much larger plant palette be from any dry area in the world. 4. Some cactus plants have been known to survive more than 2 years without water. 5. Some cacti first evolved in a dry climate that later became wetter again. For example: several jungle species live as epiphytes in trees to achieve the fast drainage they need.
Devilwood (Osmanthus americanus / Cartrema americana) has very hard and dense wood, hence the name. It is a slow-growing evergreen shrub or small tree native to southeastern North America and Mexico. Bright green simple leaves emerge in spring turning deeper green in summer. Cream white flowers borne on separate trees and female trees produce abundant blue/black fruit. Growth habit is somewhat open so don't count on it to provide screening or density. Grows in sun or shade but in the northern part of its range, growth is too slow and sparse in the shade. Devilwood grows in most soils including moist ones and occasional flooding. This making it an ideal rain garden plant. Becoming more drought tolerant when established, our 40 inches of typical rainfall in Eastern Kansas is sufficient if planted in good soils. The cold hardiness is surprising: as a zone 5, this could be one of the most cold-tolerant broadleaf evergreens trees available! It survived -16 degrees F and a week of single digit highs in February, 2021 with no damage. It even maintains bright green foliage in winter opposed to a dingy brownish-green like some evergreens. Useful in the garden as a background evergreen shrub or small tree. Sold as Osmanthus americanus, Cartrema americana is technically it's new botanical name.
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***Native Roundleaf Groundsel / Packera, is also known as Packera obovata
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***Native Roundleaf Groundsel / Packera, is also known as Packera obovata
Peonies (Paeonia), along with roses are one of the most universally well-known flowers. The toughness and durability of this plant can be seen in cemeteries or around abandoned houses, surviving decades even 100 years or more without care. Peonies are native to China in cold continental climate areas but also do well in Kansas. Large flowers come in different shades of white, red, and pink. Peonies bloom usually around Memorial Day hence their popularity and cemeteries. Blooming lasts about 2 weeks but can be short-lived if a thunderstorm happens during the last week of blooming when petals are fully open. In zone 6 and south, the foliage is glossy green and attractive throughout the first half of summer. Usually, by late summer, foliage is tattered from drought stress and diseases. This has no ill effect on the health of the plant as it is already set its growth buds for next year. In northern areas (USDA zones 3-5), Peony foliage lasts all summer and turns a brilliant red and orange color in the fall. Due to its need for cold winters, peonies will not grow well further south than zone 8b. Gardeners in south Florida have had success getting peonies to bloom by dumping a bag of ice on the dormant plant every day for 5-6 weeks in winter: sounds like a lot of work huh! Due to its cold tolerance, peonies may be grown in above-ground pots or raised planters year-round. When planting outside, be careful to plant at the correct depth with pink buds slightly below the soil or plants will not bloom. Overall, peonies are a very reliable long-lived plant in Kansas surviving everything. But they do require some maintenance to look their best. Ultra cold-hardy plants from northern climates normally dislike our long hot humid summers; although we are on the Southern edge of this plant's adaptability, it still survives reasonably well here. Look for a cold microclimate planting location such as East or North exposure. Paeonia 'Coral Sunset' features double flowering multi-colored (Pink,Salmon,Peach,Gold) blooms.
Ginger Wine® Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius 'Ginger Wine') expands the color palette for these easy care, native flowering shrubs. Spring foliage emerges a sunny orange color and matures to sparkling burgundy. Clusters of white flowers cover the plant in late spring, and these age to attractive red seed heads. This disease-resistant shrub does best in full sun locations and cooler climates. Top reasons to grow Ginger Wine® ninebark: 1.Colorful from spring through fall. 2. Native to North America. 3. Very low maintenance: no pruning or deadheading required. 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. It will not handle extreme drought; the Lawrence KS summer of 2011 and 2012 killed many plants that were not under an irrigation system. Look for a cold microclimate planting location such as East or North exposure but still in full sun. 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!*** Mexican Hat, is also known as Ratibida columnifera
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***Red Mexican Hat, is also known as Ratibida columnifera 'Red'
***Description for this perennial available with future update!***Grey-headed Coneflower, is also known as Ratibida pinnata
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Fine Line Columnar Buckthorn, is also known as Rhamnus frangula 'Fine Line'
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Fine Line Columnar Buckthorn, is also known as Rhamnus frangula 'Fine Line'
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***Fine Line Columnar Buckthorn, is also known as Rhamnus frangula 'Fine Line'
Gro-low sumac (Rhus aromatica 'Gro-low') is a dwarf spreading cultivar of Rhus aromatica native to much of the central United States including Kansas. It features bright green leaves that turn brilliant red in the fall. Light yellow flowers and occasional red berries are also ornamental features. This sumac is commonly grown as a spreading groundcover shrub for difficult areas. It will grow in full sun or full shade in medium to dry soils including dry-shade. However, fall color is quite a bit reduced in full shade. In the landscape, it is commonly 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. It is important to keep on the dry side to discourage root rot disease. This plant also does well in hot dry parking lot islands or along busy roads. Plants adapt well to hot south or west sides of the house enduring temperatures of over 100 degrees F with no foliage burn. Plants can also be planted on the north side of a house being extremely cold hardy with no winterkill. Another great spot is planting on top of a retaining wall allowing it to cascade down. We do not recommend planting in small areas or in spaces that it will overrun neighboring plants. Unlike other sumac, 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. Considered one of the most versatile and best plants for solving your most difficult landscape challenges.
Gro-low sumac (Rhus aromatica 'Lacette') is a dwarf spreading cultivar of Rhus aromatica native to much of the central United States including Kansas. It differs from "Gro-low' with its fine textured leaves. It features bright foliage that turn brilliant red in the fall. Light yellow flowers and occasional red berries are also ornamental features. This sumac is commonly grown as a spreading groundcover shrub for difficult areas. It will grow in full sun or full shade in medium to dry soils including dry-shade. However, fall color is quite a bit reduced in full shade. In the landscape, it is commonly 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. It is important to keep on the dry side to discourage root rot disease. This plant also does well in hot dry parking lot islands or along busy roads. Plants adapt well to hot south or west sides of the house enduring temperatures of over 100 degrees F with no foliage burn. Plants can also be planted on the north side of a house being extremely cold hardy with no winterkill. Another great spot is planting on top of a retaining wall allowing it to cascade down. We do not recommend planting in small areas or in spaces that it will overrun neighboring plants. Unlike other sumac, 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. Considered one of the most versatile and best plants for solving your most difficult landscape challenges.
***Shrub descriptions available with future update!***>>>>>Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra) features bright green leaves that turn brilliant red in the fall. Light yellow flowers and occasional red berries are also ornamental features.>>>>>>It will thrive in full sun in medium to bone dry soils. In the landscape, it is commonly used as large mass planting on hills and berms. 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. This plant also does well in hot dry parking lot islands (hell-strips) or along busy roads. Plants adapt well to hot south or west sides of the house enduring temperatures of over 100 degrees F with no foliage burn. Another great spot is planting on top of a retaining wall allowing it to cascade down. We do not recommend planting in small areas or in spaces that it will overrun neighboring plants. Avoid potentially poorly drained areas or root-rot will occur. >>>>>>>>>Rough-leaf dogwood is a suckering shrub or rarely a small tree to 15 ft. It is native woodland edges and tall-grass prairie ravines in Kansas olong with the Great Plains and Midwestern regions of the United States. This dogwood is easily recognized by the rough, upper leaf surfaces with flat-topped clusters of creamy-yellow flowers and white fruit on reddish brown or gray twigs. Fall color is purplish-red. Cream-white flowers about 1/4 inch wide, with 4 petals characteristic of all dogwoods. Numerous flowers are in broad clusters at the ends of branches, appearing from April to early June. White fruit then appears in late summer and early fall. A favorite of many wild birds, the fruit is usually stripped clean within a couple weeks. It spreads from root sprouts and provides cover for wildlife and erosion control along ditches. Other uses of roughleaf dogwood include buffer strip around parking lots, highway medians, dust screens along country roads, and naturalizing. It will grow in full sun or full shade in medium to dry soils including dry-shade. However, fall color is quite a bit reduced in full shade. 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. For the home garden, the species is generally too aggressive to mix with other plants especially when irrigated and growing in rich soil. However, in a difficult dry-shade garden, it will thrive, flower, and be relatively tame with little spreading.