Hardy Perennials Grown In Zone 6 And Colder

Front 1

Achillea filipendulina

Back 1

fernleaf yarrow

Hint 1

It grows 4 ft (120 cm) high, with fern-like foliage. The leaves are linear, pinnate, lobed and serrated, hairy and rough. The flowers are arranged in corymbs, or panicles, of a complex character; they are very large, often 5 in (13 cm) across. The smaller corymbs are arched or convex, causing the cluster or compound corymb to present an uneven surface. In the species the small flowers are of rich 'old gold' yellow colour, and are very rigid, almost hard. The flowering period is mid to late summer.

Front 2

Acorus gramineus

Back 2

Japanese sweet flag; grassy-leaved sweet flag

Hint 2

Foliage is sweetly fragrant when bruised
Form: Erect leaves
Texture: Fine
Foliage: Narrrow, shiny dark green leaves; 12 to 18 inches long
Flower/Fruit: Small yellow flowers in mid spring on 2 to 4 inch spadix; reddish fleshy fruit

Front 3

Agastache foeniculum

Back 3

giant blue hyssop

Hint 3

This native perennial plant is 2-3½' tall, branching occasionally near the apex. The four-angled stems are light green and glabrous to finely pubescent. The opposite leaves are up to 4" long and 2" across, and they have short petioles. The leaves are cordate to broadly lanceolate in shape and their margins are crenate to crenate-serrate. The upper surface of the leaves is conspicuously veined and dull green, while the lower surface is white and finely canescent. The foliage has an anise scent. The upper stems terminate in spikes of flowers about 3-6" long. The small flowers are arranged in dense whorls that are crowded along the spike, although sometimes the whorls are less crowded and more interrupted. The calyx of a flower is tubular and has five teeth; it is usually dull blue-violet or a similar color, becoming more colorful toward its tips. The tubular flowers are about 1/3" long, extending beyond the calyx. They are blue-violet. The corolla of a flower is divided into a short upper lip and a longer lower lip. The lower lip has 2 small lateral lobes and a larger central lobe. Exerted from the throat of the flower are 4 stamens with blue-violet anthers, and a style that is cleft toward its tip. The flowers bloom in scattered locations along the spikes for about 1-2 months from mid- to late summer. During this time, calyx of each flower remains somewhat colorful. There is no floral scent. The flowers are replaced by nutlets that are oval-shaped and smooth.

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Agastache rupestris

Back 4

sunset hyssop

Hint 4

It is a woody-based perennial which typically grows 18-24" tall in gardens, but to 36" tall in the wild. Key ornamental features are (1) the small, long-blooming, salmon-burnt orange, tube-shaped flowers with purplish calyxes which are arranged in salvia-like spikes and (2) the aromatic, narrow, linear to linear-lanceolate gray-green leaves (to 2" long). Flowers bloom for almost two months (July through August) often with some fall rebloom if plants are cut back in late summer after the initial flowering period. Sometimes commonly called sunset hyssop in reference to the resemblance of the flower color to the hues of a sunset. Also sometimes called rock anise hyssop or licorice hyssop in reference to the minty-licorice-root beer aroma of the foliage of this mint family member.

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Ajuga reptans

Back 5

ajuga; bugleweed

Hint 5

Common bugleweed is a dense, rapidly spreading, mat-forming ground cover which features shiny, dark green leaves. Whorls of tiny, blue-violet flowers appear in mid to late spring on spikes rising above the foliage to 10". Cultivars of this species feature leaves with more interesting and varied foliage color. When in full flower, large clumps of bugleweed can produce a striking display.

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Alcea rosea

Back 6

hollyhock

Hint 6

Hollyhocks are old garden favorites. This mix of singles features plants which produce huge (4-5" diameter), outward-facing, single flowers in a wide variety of colors including reds, pinks, whites, and light yellows. The flowers grow on rigid, towering spikes or spires which typically reach a height of 5-8' tall and usually do not require staking. Foliage features large, heart-shaped (3, 5 or 7 lobes), rough lower leaves which become progressively smaller toward the top of the spire. Long bloom period of June to August. Sometimes listed in nursery catalogs under Althaea.

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Alchemilla mollis

Back 7

Lady's mantle

Hint 7

Lady's mantle is a clump-forming perennial which typically forms a basal foliage mound (6-12" tall ) of long-stalked, circular, scallop-edged, toothed, soft-hairy, light green leaves (to 6" across) each with 9-11 shallow rounded lobes. Tiny, apetulous, star-shaped, greenish yellow flowers appear in loose, spreading clusters (compound cymes) atop stems rising above the foliage to 12-18" in late spring to early summer. Tendency of leaves to retain moisture beads after a rain is considered to be a unique and attractive ornamental feature.

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Anemone x hybrida

Back 8

Japanese anemone; hybrid anemone

Hint 8

Height: 2.5 to 5 feet Spread: 2 to 4 feet Once established, plants spread indefinitely to form dense clumps.
Bloom time: late summer early fall
mid-fall Flower color: violet white
pink Foliage color: light green
medium green Foliage texture: medium Shape: cushion, mound or clump Shape in flower:
flower stalks with upright spikes
flower stalks with flowers with petal radiating outward

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Aquilegia x hybrida

Back 9

columbine

Hint 9

LEAVES: 2-3 ternately compound, softly pubescent, attractive gray-green or blue-greenFLOWER: terminal, hanging or erect, with long or short spurs projecting backwards; red, pink, yellow, blue, white, solid or bicolors, and doublesSEASON OF BLOOM: spring to early summer for about a month

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Armeria maritima

Back 10

common thrift; sea thrift

Hint 10

It is a compact perennial which grows in low clumps and sends up long stems from which globes of bright pink flowers blossom. In some cases purple, white or red flowers also occur.Foliage color: dark green
Foliage texture: fine

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Artemisia schmidtiana 'Silver Mound'

Back 11

Silver Mound artemisia

Hint 11

Silvery, aromatic foliage is finely textured with silky pubescence.

Front 12

Asarum canadense

Back 12

wild ginger
(downy)

Hint 12

Wild ginger is a Missouri native spring wildflower which occurs in rich woods and wooded slopes throughout the State. Basically a stemless plant which features two downy, heart-shaped to kidney-shaped, handsomely veined, dark green, basal leaves (to 6" wide). Cup-shaped, purplish brown flowers (1" wide) appear in spring on short, ground-level stems arising from the crotch between the two basal leaves. Flowers are quite attractive on close inspection, but bloom singly on or near the ground and are usually hidden from view by the foliage. Although not related to culinary ginger (Zingiber officinale), the roots of this plant produce a scent that is reminiscent thereof. Fresh or dried roots were used by early Americans as a ginger substitute, but the plant is not normally used today for culinary purposes.

Front 13

Asarum europaeum

Back 13

European wild ginger
(shiny)

Hint 13

European wild ginger is native to moist, open woodland areas in central to southern Europe. It is a creeping ground cover which typically grows to 4" tall but slowly spreads to 15" wide or more. Thrives in shady areas. It is primarily grown for its glossy, leathery, heart-shaped to kidney-shaped, dark green leaves (to 3" across) which remain evergreen in mild winters. Tiny, bell-shaped, greenish yellow flowers (to 1/2" wide) bloom in late spring to early summer. Flowers are hermaphroditic and are pollinated by flies. Flowers are usually not observed because they bloom at ground level and are covered by the dense foliage. Root has a mild ginger aroma.

Front 14

Asclepias tuberosa

Back 14

butterflyweed

Hint 14

Butterfly weed is a tuberous rooted, Missouri native perennial which occurs in dry/rocky open woods, glades, prairies, fields and roadsides throughout the State (Steyermark). It typically grows in a clump to 1-3' tall and features clusters (umbels) of bright orange to yellow-orange flowers atop upright to reclining, hairy stems with narrow, lance-shaped leaves. Unlike many of the other milkweeds, this species does not have milky-sapped stems. Flowers give way to prominent, spindle-shaped seed pods (3-6" long) which split open when ripe releasing numerous silky-tailed seeds for dispersal by the wind. Seed pods are valued in dried flower arrangements. Long bloom period from late spring throughout the summer. Flowers are a nectar source for many butterflies and leaves are a food source for monarch butterfly larvae (caterpillars).

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Aster novi-belgii

Back 15

Michaelmas daisy; New York aster

Hint 15

The specific epithet, novi-belgii, arose when the state of New York was once known as New Belgium. The smooth or nearly glabrous leaves differentiate them from New England asters. The leaves clasp the stem similar to New England asters, but flowers normally have only 15-25 ray flowers. The flowers are not as good for cutting as the New England asters but provide excellent color in the late summer and fall garden. They are called Michaelmas daisies because they bloom around September 29, St. Michael's Day, in the British Isles. - Armitage

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Astilbe hybrids

Back 16

astilbe; false spirea

Hint 16

Compound, 2- to 3-ternate leaves with noticeably swollen petiolule joints and sharply and irregularly toothed leaflets; generally triangular-shaped panicles of spike-like spires bearing numerous, very small (ca. 5 mm across) bisexual or unisexual flowers with usually 5 sepals and 5 petals; bisexual flowers with 10 stamens and up to 3 separate pistils.

Front 17

Aurinia saxatilis

Back 17

basket-of-gold

Hint 17

Basket-of-gold is a low-growing, spreading perennial that produces a profuse spring bloom of bright yellow flowers that are particularly attractive in rock gardens, sprawled over rocks or cascaded over rock walls. After bloom, it will remain in the garden as an attractive ground cover unless the foliage depreciates or plants die back from hot summer conditions. It was formerly known as Alyssum saxatile and is still sometimes commonly called yellow alyssum. It is native from central Europe to Turkey. This is a mat-forming perennial with woody roots that grows to 6-12” tall and features spatulate basal leaves (to 5” long) and smaller linear-oblanceolate stem leaves. Leaves are gray-green. Bright yellow flowers in corymbose panicles bloom in spring. Genus and species names come from Latin, Aurinia meaning golden and saxatilis meaning found among rocks. Synonymous with and formerly known as Alyssum saxatile. Additional common names include madwort, goldentuft and gold-dust.

Front 18

Baptisia australis

Back 18

blue false indigo; blue wild indigo

Hint 18

Blue false indigo is an upright perennial which typically grows 3-4' tall and occurs in rich woods, thickets and along streambanks from Pennsylvania south to North Carolina and Tennessee. It features purple, lupine-like flowers in erect racemes (to 12") atop flower spikes extending well above a foliage mound of clover-like, trifoliate, bluish-green leaves (leaflets to 2" long). Blooms in spring. Flowers give way to inflated seed pods (to 2.5" long) which turn charcoal black when ripe and have considerable ornamental interest. Seeds rattle around in the blackened pods which were once popularly used by children as rattles. Stems with seed pods are valued additions to dried flower arrangements.

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Bergenia crassifolia

Back 19

Siberian tea; pigsqueak

Hint 19

The name comes from the Latin words “crass” which means “thick” and “folia” meaning “leaves” in reference to its thick leaves. The plant forms a low mound of bold, leathery, spoon-shaped green leaves, which often turn bronze during winter, especially in colder regions. Short stems of magenta-pink flowers rise taller in early to mid spring, much earlier than other forms. In mild regions this may well flower in winter. The winter leaves are a valuable addition to cut flower bouquets. Most effective when mass planted as a groundcover or used as an edging along a walkway.

Front 20

Boltonia asteroides

Back 20

boltonia; false aster

Hint 20

Boltonia (also commonly called false aster) is a tall, rhizomatous perennial which is native to the eastern U.S. and typically occurs in wet prairies, wet meadows, marshes, stream banks and pond peripheries. Linear, lance-shaped, grayish-green leaves (to 5" long) on erect, usually branching stems growing to 6' tall. Tiny, white, 3/4" daisies (white rays with yellow center disks) in loose panicles literally cover this aster-like plant with a profuse bloom from late summer to early autumn.

Front 21

Brunnera macrophylla

Back 21

Siberian bugloss; brunnera

Hint 21

Siberian bugloss is a rhizomatous, clump-forming perennial which features small, forget-me-not-like flowers (light blue with yellow centers) in airy, branched racemes rising well above the foliage on slender stems to 18" tall in spring. Basal, heart-shaped, blackish-green leaves (3-5" wide) form a foliage mound which remains attractive throughout the growing season. Smaller stem leaves are elliptic. Bugloss comes from Greek meaning ox tongue in probably reference to the roughness and shape of the leaves. Synonymous with and sometimes sold as Anchusa myosotidiflora.

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Campanula carpatica

Back 22

Carpathian bellflower

Hint 22

One of the least demanding, most satisfying perennials in the garden. An elegant, long-season display of showy blooms. Plants form a low, cushion-shaped mound of small green leaves, with loads of upfacing, open bells appearing in early summer.

Front 23

Campanula persicifolia

Back 23

peach-leaved bellflower

Hint 23

Peach-leaved bellflower is a rosette-forming, upright, glabrous perennial that typically grows on stiff sturdy stems to 1 1/2 - 3' tall. Large, outward facing, broad bell-shaped flowers (to 1.5”) in shades of white to blue bloom in open, slender, terminal racemes atop erect, unbranched, nearly leafless stems in late spring to early summer. Stems rise from basal rosettes of narrow, toothed, leathery, bright green leaves (4-8” long). Leaves have a slight resemblance to those of the peach tree, hence the common name. Rosettes are semi-evergreen to evergreen in warm winter climates. Stem leaves are much shorter (to 4” long). Genus name is in reference to the bell-shaped flowers (campanulate corollas). Specific epithet is in reference to the leaves purportedly resembling those of the peach tree.

Front 24

Centaurea montana

Back 24

mountain bluet; perennial cornflower

Hint 24

Centaurea montana is an erect, stoloniferous, clump-forming perennial which features solitary, fringed, rich blue cornflowers (2" diameter) with reddish blue centers and black-edged involucre bracts. Flowers appear in late spring atop unbranched stems typically growing 1-2' tall. Gray-green, lance-shaped lower leaves to 7" long. Commonly called mountain bluet, perennial cornflower or perennial bachelor's button.

Front 25

Coreopsis grandiflora

Back 25

tickseed; large flowered coreopsis

Hint 25

Bigflower coreopsis is an erect or ascending, highly-branched, glabrous perennial 1-3 ft tall with slender stems arising from a short rhizome. The opposite leaves are pinnately compound or deeply lobed, the divisions linear or lanceolate. The basal and lower leaves are petioled, the upper leaves sessile or nearly so. The inflorescence is of terminal heads with yellow ray florets and yellowish-brown disk florets. The fruit is an orbicular-winged achene.

Front 26

Coreopsis verticillata

Back 26

threadleaf coreopsis

Hint 26

C. verticillata is an herbaceous perennial that grows 2–3 ft (1–1 m) tall and about 2 ft (1 m) wide, although as it spreads laterally by rhizomes,[1] this width can be exceeded. The stems are wiry.[2] The flower heads are up to 2 in (51 mm) across, and both the disc florets and ray florets are bright yellow. The flowers are produced abundantly in clusters from midsummer to fall.

Front 27

Delosperma nubigenum

Back 27

hardy ice plant

Hint 27

Native to certain mountainous areas of South Africa, this ice plant is a succulent, mat-forming species that reportedly has the best winter hardiness of the ice plants currently in cultivation. It typically grows to only 2” tall but spreads to 20” wide. Foliage is covered with small but bright yellow flowers (to 3/4” diameter) from late May to fall. Intensity of the flower color and length of the bloom enhances the ornamental interest of these plants. Succulent fleshy green foliage. Foliage is covered with transparent flakes that somewhat resemble tiny pieces of ice, hence the common name. Foliage acquires reddish hues in fall. Plants are evergreen in warm winter climates, but at best only semi-evergreen in the St. Louis area.

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Delphinium hybrids

Back 28

hybrid delphinium

Hint 28

The leaves are deeply lobed with 3 to 7 toothed, pointed lobes in a palmate shape. The main flowering stem is erect, and varies greatly in size between the species, from 10 centimetres in some alpine species, up to 2 metres tall in the larger meadowland species; it is topped with a raceme of many flowers, varying in color from purple and blue to red, yellow or white. The flower has five petal-like sepals which grow together to form a hollow pocket with a spur at the end, which gives the plant its name. Within the sepals are four true petals. The seeds are small and often shiny black.

Front 29

Chrysanthemum x grandiflorum

Back 29

chrysanthemum; garden mum; fall mum

Hint 29

??

Front 30

Dianthus gratianopolitanus

Back 30

cheddar pink

Hint 30

his compact species forms broad mats of blue-gray linear leaves and is perfect for a rock garden setting. The purplish-pink flowers are solitary, toothed, and deliciously fragrant.

Front 31

Dianthus chinensis

Back 31

China pink; rainbow pink

Hint 31

Species plants grow to as much as 30" tall and feature pink to lilac flowers with fringed petals and a purple eye. Most of the China pink cultivars available in commerce today are bushy compact plants that typically grow in mounds or clumps to 6-12" tall and as wide and feature a longer flowering period and a much greater range of flower colors, including many different shades of white, pink and red with interesting bicolor combinations thereof. Flowers appear in 10-15 flowered clusters in summer. Narrow, lance-shaped stem leaves (to 3" long). Hybrids of D. chinensis and D. barbatus generally provide better flowering for the St. Louis climate.

Front 32

Dicentra eximia

Back 32

fringed bleeding heart

Hint 32

Fringed bleeding heart is a native wildflower of the eastern United States that typically occurs on forest floors, rocky woods and ledges in the Appalachian Mountains. Features deeply-cut, fern-like, grayish-green, foliage which persists throughout the growing season and pink to purplish red, nodding, heart-shaped flowers carried above the foliage on long, leafless, leaning stems. Protruding inner petals of the flower appear to form a drop of blood at the bottom of each heart-shaped flower (hence the common name of bleeding heart). Plant typically grows to 15" tall, with the flower stems and basal leaves growing directly out of the scaly rootstock. Bloom begins in late spring. In cooler climates, flowering may continue throughout the summer, but in the hotter climates, the flowering will generally stop in hot weather, with a possible rebloom occurring only when the weather cools in late summer or early fall.

Front 33

Dicentra spectabilis

Back 33

bleeding heart; Japanese bleeding heart

Hint 33

This species of bleeding heart has been a common, old garden favorite for many years. It features graceful, soft green foliage that is less deeply divided than most other Dicentra species, and 1" long, rose pink, nodding, heart-shaped, flowers with protruding white inner petals borne on one side of and hanging in a row from long, arching, stems above the foliage in mid to late spring. The common name is in reference to the protruding inner petals of the heart-shaped flower which purportedly give the appearance of a "bleeding heart." Plant typically grows 2-3' tall. Except in the far northern part of its range, the foliage usually goes dormant no later than mid-summer.

Front 34

Digitalis purpurea

Back 34

foxglove

Hint 34

When grown from seed, this biennial foxglove produces only a basal rosette of light green, oblong leaves in the first year. Flowers are borne in the second year in terminal, one-sided racemes atop leafy, 2-4' tall (infrequently to 5') spires arising from the centers of the basal rosettes. Pendulous, 2-3" long, tubular, funnel-shaped, dark rose-pink to purple (sometimes white) flowers with purple and white spots inside are closely grouped along each spike. Flowers are attractive to hummingbirds. Plant leaves are a source of the drug digitalis and are highly poisonous. A late spring bloomer that reaches its peak about the same time as roses begin to bloom. After flowering, plants can become somewhat scraggly by late summer, and, because they are biennials, consideration may be given to removing them from the garden as soon as they release their seed. Individual flowers resemble the snipped off fingers of a glove, hence the common name of foxglove.

Front 35

Echinacea purpurea

Back 35

purple coneflower

Hint 35

Purple coneflower is a Missouri native plant which occurs in rocky open woods and prairies throughout the State. Large, daisy-like flowers with slightly drooping, rose purple petals (ray flowers) and large, coppery-orange central cones. Long summer bloom period. Best flower display is late June to late July, with sporadic continued bloom into autumn. Flowers grow on rigid stems typically to 3' tall (less frequently to 5'). Dark green leaves (4-8" long) are lance-shaped and coarsely-toothed. Good fresh cut or dried flower. The dead flower stems will remain erect well into the winter and, if flower heads are not removed, are often visited by goldfinches who perch on or just below the blackened cones to feed on the seeds. Echinacea comes from the Greek word echinos meaning hedgehog in reference to the spiny center cone.

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Echinops ritro

Back 36

globe thistle

Hint 36

This compact species has cobweb-like, woolly foliage. The unique spherical flowerheads appear steely blue before maturing to a brighter blue. The late summer flowers add charm of form and texture to a mixed border.

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Epimedium xversicolor 'Sulphureum'

Back 37

bicolor barrenwort

Hint 37

This epimedium hybrid (sometimes commonly called bicolor barrenwort) is a cross between E. grandiflorum and E. pinnatum subsp. colchicum. It is a rhizomatous, clump-forming perennial which typically grows 8-12" tall and is primarily used as a ground cover or edger in shady or woodland areas. 'Sulphureum' features short-spurred yellow flowers (pale yellow sepals, bright yellow petals and deep yellow spurs) which appear in racemes above the foliage in spring. Compound, medium green leaves with pointed, spiny-toothed, heart-shaped leaflets (to 3" long) on wiry stems form attractive foliage mounds. New leaves of this cultivar usually emerge reddish tinged in spring, mature to green and turn reddish in fall. Epimediums are commonly called bishop's hat or barrenwort.

Front 38

Eupatorium purpureum

Back 38

Joe-Pye weed

Hint 38

Joe Pye weed is a tall Missouri native perennial that occurs in low moist ground, wooded slopes, wet meadows and thickets and stream margins throughout the State (Steyermark). It is an erect, clump-forming perennial which typically grows 4-7’ tall and features coarsely-serrated, lance-shaped, dark green leaves (to 12” long) in whorls of 3-4 on sturdy green stems with purplish leaf nodes. Tiny, vanilla-scented, dull pinkish-purple flowers in large, terminal, domed, compound inflorescences bloom in mid-summer to early fall. Each flower cluster typically has 5-7 florets. Flowers are very attractive to butterflies. Flowers give way to attractive seed heads which persist well into winter.

Front 39

Gaillardia x grandiflora

Back 39

blanket flower; indian blanket

Hint 39

This short-lived perennial gaillardia is a tetraploid hybrid resulting from a cross between a 3’ tall perennial gaillardia (G. aristata) and a 2’ tall annual gaillardia (G. pulchella). It arguably inherited its perennial habit from the former and its long flowering period and rapid growth rate from the latter. Typically grows 2-3’ tall on upright stems that are mostly leafless at the top. Features daisy-like flowers (3-4” diameter) in a wide variety of color arrangements, but usually featuring yellow to orange to red rays with maroon to orange banding at the petal bases and dark burgundy center disks. Double-flowered forms and dwarf selections are also available. Blooms late spring to fall. Lance-shaped gray-green leaves (to 3-6” long). Flowers are attractive to butterflies. In areas where goldfinches are present, gardeners should consider leaving some spent flowerheads for the birds. Gaillardia is sometimes commonly called blanket flower in probable reference to the resemblance of its rich and warm flower colors and patterns to blankets woven by Native Americans. However, some authorities suggest that the name blanket flower was originally in reference to the habit of wild species plants to form colonies which blanketed the ground.

Front 40

Galium odoratum

Back 40

sweet woodruff

Hint 40

Sweet woodruff is a mat-forming perennial that is most often grown as a ground cover in shady areas. Plants typically grow 8-12" tall and feature fragrant, lance-shaped, dark green leaves in whorls of 6-8 along square stems. Small, fragrant, 4-petaled, white flowers appear in loose cymes in spring. Plants emit a strong odor of freshly mown hay when foliage is crushed or cut. Aromatic intensity of the foliage increases when dried, thus dried leaves are popularly used in sachets or potpourris. Plants have also been used commercially in perfumes. Leaves are sometimes used to flavor teas and cold fruit drinks. Leaves are also used to make May wine, a punch made from white wine flavored with woodruff, orange and pineapple. Woodruff comes from Old English meaning wood that unravels, in probable reference to the creeping rootstock of the plant. Formerly known as Asperula odorata.

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Gaura lindheimeri

Back 41

gaura; wand flower

Hint 41

Gaura is a clump-forming, vase-shaped, somewhat shrubby perennial which typically grows 3-4' tall and is perhaps best known for its 4-petaled, butterfly-like flowers and long bloom period (spring to early autumn). Pinkish buds along wiry, erect, wand-like stems open to white flowers which slowly fade to pink. Flowers appear in long, open, terminal panicles and open only a few at a time. Narrow, lance-shaped, stemless leaves (1-3" long) are occasionally spotted with maroon.

Front 42

Geranium sanguineum

Back 42

blooded geranium; bloody cranesbill

Hint 42

A hummock-forming, spreading perennial that has cup-shaped pink to purple flowers, borne singly in summer above, deeply divided, dark green leaves. See individual cultivars for more detailed information.

Front 43

Geranium xcantabrigiense "Biokovo'

Back 43

Biokovo geranium

Hint 43

This hybrid geranium is a spreading, rhizomatous plant typically growing 6-10" high. Features masses of 5-petaled white flowers (3/4" diameter) which are tinged with pink at the base of each petal (pink throat-like centers) and which have pronounced pink stamens. The overall flower effect is that of a very pale pink geranium. Blooms in late spring. Rounded, lobed, medium green foliage. 'Biokovo' runners extend further than those of the original hybrid, and therefore do not form as dense a foliage carpet. A naturally occurring hybrid which was discovered in the Biokova Mountains in Croatia.

Front 44

Gypsophila paniculata

Back 44

baby's breath

Hint 44

It is an herbaceous perennial growing to 1.2 m (4 ft) tall and wide, with mounds of branching stems covered in clouds of tiny white flowers in summer (hence the common name "baby's breath").

Front 45

Helleborus x hybridus

Back 45

Lenten rose

Hint 45

The late Helen Ballard of England was one of the great hybridizers of Lenten rose. In the mid-1900s, she began crossing H. orientalis with several other species including H. odorus (yellow), H. purpurescens (purple to gray) and H. torquatus (dark purple to black) to create a strain of Lenten rose hybrids which included many different hues ranging from yellow to pink to red to maroon to blackish-purple. Although Ballard strain plants are sometimes sold as cultivars of H. orientalis, they are by and large garden hybrids which are more accurately described as H. x hybridus and are often sold by color rather than descriptive cultivar name. They are evergreen, bushy, clump-forming perennials which typically grow 12-18" tall with a similar to slightly larger spread. Nodding, cup-shaped flowers (to 2" diameter) with overlapping petals and center crowns of conspicuously contrasting yellow stamens appear in clusters (cymes) at the tips of leafy stems from February through April. Bloom period can be longer in mild winters. Glossy, deeply-cut, dark green, deeply-lobed, evergreen leaves. Leaves, stems and roots are poisonous.

Front 46

Hemerocallis species and hybrids

Back 46

daylily

Hint 46

Most kinds of Daylilies occur as clumps, each of which has leaves, a crown, flowers, and roots. The long, linear lanceolate leaves are grouped into opposite fans with arching leaves. The crown is the small white portion between the leaves and the roots. Along the scape of some kinds of daylilies, small leafy "proliferations" form at nodes or in bracts. A proliferation forms roots when planted and is often an exact clone of its parent plant. Many kinds of daylilies have thickened roots in which they store food and water.
A normal, single daylily flower has three petals and three sepals, collectively called tepals, each with a midrib in the same or in a contrasting color. The centermost part of the flower, called the throat, usually has a different color than more distal areas of its tepals. Each flower usually has six stamens, each with a two-lobed anther. After successful pollination, a flower forms a capsule (often erroneously called a pod).

Front 47

Heuchera hybrids

Back 47

coralbells; allumroot

Hint 47

The genus was originally named for Johann Heinrich von Heucher, a 17th Century German botanist. In 1884, the species H.sanguinea came into prominence. It was commonly called “coral bells,” referring to its airy, red, white or pink bell-shaped flowers that lined slender stems that rose out of compact mounds of evergreen leaves.

Front 48

Hibiscus moscheutos

Back 48

hibiscus; rose mallow

Hint 48

old-hardy perennial wetland plant that can grow in large colonies. The hirsute leaves are of variable morphology, but commonly found as deltoidal in form and sometimes having up to three lobes.There exists in nature numerous forms and petal colors range from pure white to deep rose, and, except for one genome, all have an eye of deep maroon. The complete flowers are born apically

Front 49

Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon'

Back 49

chameleon plant

Hint 49

Houttuynia is a rhizomatous perennial that typically grows 9-15” tall and spreads indefinitely and often vigorously by rhizomes. It is primarily grown as a ground cover in moist to wet areas, including aquatic margins. Species plants feature ovate to cordate dark blue-green leaves (to 3” long) edged with red. ‘Chameleon’ (synonymous with ‘Variegata’ and ‘Tricolor’) features green leaves variegated with shades of red, pink, yellow and/or cream on bright red stems. Foliage is aromatic when bruised. Tiny, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers in 1-1.5” spikes are subtended by four showy white petal-like bracts. Flowers appear in mid to late spring. Genus name honors Martin Houttuyn, 18th century Dutch botanist.

Front 50

Hosta species and hybrids

Back 50

hosta; plantain lily

Front 51

Iberis sempervirens

Back 51

candytuft

Hint 51

Evergreen candytuft (sempervirens in Latin meaning always green) is a low-growing, spreading, woody-based, herbaceous perennial (sometimes called a subshrub) which typically forms a foliage mound 6-12" tall and spreading to 18" wide. It is evergreen in warm winter climates, but semi-evergreen in cold winter climates where the foliage may suffer significant decline in harsh winters. Small, pure white, 4-petaled flowers in dense, flattened clusters (corymbs) appear in a profuse, early-to-late-spring bloom which often totally obscures the foliage. Flowers sometimes gradually age to light pink. Numerous, oblong, entire, dark green, leathery leaves (1-1.5" long).

Front 52

Kniphofia hybrids

Back 52

red hot poker; torch lily

Hint 52

Red-hot poker is an upright, clump-forming, rhizomatous perennial. From an 18-24" high basal tuft of coarse, sword-shaped, bluish-green, linear leaves (to 3' long and 1" wide) arises, in late spring, a succession of thick, naked flower scapes (typically to 4' tall) with dense, terminal racemes (6-10" long) of drooping, tubular flowers. Buds and emerging flowers are red, but mature to greenish-yellow. Each raceme acquires a two-toned appearance since the lower flowers open first and show yellow while the upper buds and emerging flowers show bright red. Common name refers to the purported resemblance of the flower spike to a red hot poker. Also commonly called torch lily. This species has been mostly replaced in cultivation by the many hybrids in part developed from it.

Front 53

Lamium galeobdolan 'Variegatum'

Back 53

variegated yellow archangel

Hint 53

Lamium galeobdolon 'Variegatum'
Lamiastrum galeobdolon 'Variegatum' is a stoloniferous, spreading perennial that features stunning green and silver variegated foliage with 2" long leaves that are oval to nearly round. It forms a loose mat of foliage which spreads indefinitely.

Two-lipped, yellow flowers appear in whorls on short stalks in late spring. The foliage is like Lamium, except it grows taller and faster and takes more sun.

It grows moderately fast to rapidly to form a lovely silver and green groundcover that is good for erosion control. Evergreen in southern climates. Spreading by creeping stems, it can be somewhat invasive in optimum growing conditions.

Front 54

Lamium maculatum

Back 54

spotted deadnettle; lamium

Hint 54

prostrate, spreading herbaceous perennial.[1] This species is very variable in terms of leaf size and shape, hairiness and flower colours. It reaches on average 20–80 centimetres (7.9–31 in) in height. It has erect, hollow and pubescent stems, branched at the base only. The soft hairy leaf blades are about 8 inches long. They are spotted (hence the Latin name maculatum), toothed with long petioles, about 2–4 centimetres (0.79–1.6 in) long. Their shape varies from ovate-triangular to heart-shaped. The inflorescence bears about two to eight hermaphrodite flowers about 20–30 millimetres (0.79–1.2 in) long. The flowers of the plant are formed in the leaf axils of the upper leaf pairs. The upper lips of the flowers are helmet-shaped, usually pink or purplish, while the bilobate lower ones are whitish with purple dots. The stamens are located in the upper lip and have orange pollen. The flowering period extends from April through November.

Front 55

Lavandula angustifolia

Back 55

English lavender; lavender

Hint 55

It is a strongly aromatic shrub growing as high as 1 to 2 metres (3.3 to 6.6 ft) tall. The leaves are evergreen, 2–6 centimetres (0.79–2.4 in) long, and 4–6 millimetres (0.16–0.24 in) broad. The flowers are pinkish-purple (lavender-coloured), produced on spikes 2–8 cm (0.79–3.1 in) long at the top of slender, leafless stems 10–30 cm (3.9–12 in) long.

Front 56

Leucanthemum x superbum

Back 56

Shasta daisy

Hint 56

The ever popular shasta daisy is a robust perennial which gets 2-3 ft (0.6-0.9 m) tall and grows in a bushy clump with foliage spreading about 18" across. Shasta daisies bloom over a long period from early summer to autumn with happy bright white flowerheads borne singly atop long green stems. The heads are 2-5 in (5.1-12.7 cm) across with snow white ray flowers and golden yellow discs. The foliage grows in a mat with glossy dark green leaves 8-12 in (20.3-30.5 cm) long arranged in a basal rosette. The leaves are strap shaped, nearly evergreen, and rather thick. There are smaller leaves on the erect flowering stems

Front 57

Liatris spicata

Back 57

liatris; gayfeather

Hint 57

Blazing star (also commonly called dense blazing star or marsh blazing star) is a tall, upright, clump-forming perennial which is native to moist low grounds, meadows and marsh margins. In Missouri, it has only been found in Oregon County on the Arkansas border (Steyermark). It typically grows 2-4' tall in cultivation, but can reach a height of 6' in some parts of its native habitat. Features terminal spikes (6-12" long) of sessile, rounded, fluffy, deep purple flower heads (each to 3/4" across) appearing atop rigid, erect, leafy flower stalks. One or more stalks arise from a basal tuft of narrow, grass-like, medium green leaves (to 12" long). Stem leaves gradually decrease in size toward the top. Blooms in summer. Liatris belongs to the aster family, with each flower head having only fluffy disk flowers (resembling "blazing stars") and no ray flowers. The feathery flower heads of liatris give rise to another common name of gayfeather. See also L. spicata 'Kobold' which is a popular compact cultivar that is less likely to need staking than the species.

Front 58

Limonium latifolium

Back 58

sea-lavender

Hint 58

Sea lavender is a rosette-forming perennial with mid- to dark-green leaves to 12 inches long, occasionally to 24 inches. Deep lavender-blue flowers are borne in panicles made of spikelets on wiry stems.

Front 59

Liriope muscari

Back 59

liriope; big blue lilyturf

Hint 59

Lilyturf (also commonly called blue lily turf) is a tufted, tuberous-rooted, grass-like perennial which typically grows 12-18" tall and features clumps of strap-like, arching, glossy, dark green leaves (to 1" wide). Clumps slowly expand by short stolons, but do not spread aggressively like Liriope spicata. Erect, showy flower spikes with tiered whorls of dense, violet-purple flowers rise above the leaves in late summer. Flowers resemble grape hyacinth (Muscari), hence the species name. Flowers give way to blackish berries which often persist into winter.

Front 60

Lobelia cardinalis

Back 60

cardinal flower

Hint 60

Cardinal flower is a Missouri native perennial which typically grows in moist locations along streams, sloughs, springs, swamps and in low wooded areas. A somewhat short-lived, clump-forming perennial which features erect, terminal spikes (racemes) of large, cardinal red flowers on unbranched, alternate-leafed stalks rising typically to a height of 2-3' (infrequently to 4'). Tubular flowers are 2-lipped, with the three lobes of the lower lip appearing more prominent than the two lobes of the upper lip. Finely-toothed, lance-shaped, dark green leaves (to 4" long). Late summer bloom period. Flowers are very attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, but not cardinals. White and rose colored forms are also known.

Front 61

Lupinus Russell Hybrids

Back 61

lupine

Hint 61

Russell hybrid lupines are widely available and available in myriad colors. They produce spikes of pea-like flowers in early and midsummer on 30-36-inch plants.

Front 62

Lysimachia nummularia

Back 62

creeping Jenny; moneywort

Hint 62

It is a vigorous, prostrate, evergreen perennial growing to 5 cm (2 in) in height and spreading rapidly and indefinitely by stem-rooting. It has rounded leaves, and cup-shaped yellow flowers 2 cm in diameter, in summer. It is particularly associated with damp or even wet areas, though in cultivation it will tolerate drier conditions.[3] It is cold hardy, surviving lows of −40 °F (−40 °C).

Front 63

Monarda didyma

Back 63

bee-balm; bergamot

Hint 63

Beebalm is native to eastern North America and typically occurs in bottomlands, thickets, moist woods and especially along streambanks. A somewhat coarse, clump-forming, mint family member that features tubular, bright scarlet-red flowers borne in dense, globular, terminal heads (like unkempt mop-heads) atop square stems rising 2-4' tall. Each flower head is subtended by (rests upon) a whorl of showy, red-tinged, leafy bracts. Long summer bloom. Attractive to bees, hummingbirds and butterflies, particularly when massed. Sometimes also commonly called Oswego tea because the Oswego Indians of New York State formerly used the plant leaves for tea. The toothed, aromatic leaves (3-5" long) are still used today for teas and in salads.

Front 64

Nepeta x faassenii

Back 64

catmint

Hint 64

This hybrid Nepeta (sometimes commonly called catmint) is a mounding, bushy perennial growing 1-2' tall. Features small, abundant, two-lipped, trumpet-shaped, soft lavender flowers arranged in loose, interrupted racemes (to 6") atop square, leafy stems with oval, intricately-veined, aromatic, gray-green foliage. Blooms in spring with almost continuous rebloom into fall under optimum growing conditions and proper shearing of spent flower spikes. Although Nepeta cataria is the true catnip which drives house cats ecstatic, the leaves of this hybrid catmint are also attractive, albeit less enticing, to cats.

Front 65

Pachysandra terminalis

Back 65

pachysandra; Japanese spurge

Hint 65

low evergreen groundcover
rhizomatous growth
foliage in terminal whorls
diamond-shaped leaves with coarse serrations at the end of each leafblooms in late March and early April
small white flowers in terminal spikes
spikes are 1" to 2" long
flowers are not usually that numerous and are not especially showy stems are green
Japanese pachysandra is a shrubby, evergreen ground cover which grows 8-12" high and spreads by rhizomes to form a dense carpet of rich, dark green foliage. Oval leaves (2-4" long) appear primarily in whorls at the stem ends. Tiny white flowers in 1-2" long, terminal (hence the species name) spikes bloom in early spring. Flowers are not particularly showy, but on close inspection are quite attractive.

Front 66

Pachysandra procumbens

Back 66

Allegheny spurge

Hint 66

simple evergreen leaves
leaves are held clustered at the tips of shoots in whorls, with several inches of naked basal stem present
leaf arrangement is alternate
leaves are 2" to 4" long and 2" to 3" wide somewhat pubescent ovate leaf shape toothed leaf margins
mosaic pattern can sometimes be found on leaf surface blue-green leaf color pinkish white flowers
fragrant borne in spikes, 2" to 4" long blooms in April showy brown stems with a purplish tinge
glabrous

Front 67

Paeonia hybrids

Back 67

peony; Chinese peony

Hint 67

Peonies are classified according to flower form. All peonies have five or more large outer petals called guard petals and a center of stamens or modified stamens. Single forms have centers of pollen-bearing stamens. Centers of semi-double forms consist of broad petals intermingled with pollen-bearing stamens. Double types have dense centers of only broad petals (transformed stamens). The anemone form, often included in the semi-double category, may have more than one row of guard petals encircling a center of thin, petal-like structures. Japanese types are similar to anemones but have staminodes (stamens that do not produce pollen) in their centers. Flowering usually lasts one week in late spring to early summer. By selecting and planting early, mid- and late-season bloomers, flowering may be extended for six weeks. Flower color may be any except blue.http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/1000/1241.html

Front 68

Papaver orientale

Back 68

Oriental poppy

Hint 68

Oriental poppies throw up a mound of finely cut, hairy foliage in spring. After flowering the foliage dies away entirely, a property that allows their survival in the summer drought of Central Asia. Late-developing plants can be placed nearby to fill the developing gap. Fresh leaves appear with autumn rains.

Front 69

Penstemon species and hybrids

Back 69

penstemon; beardtongue

Hint 69

Penstemons are related to snapdragons and foxgloves, and have a similar tubular flower.Floral colors include white, yellow (rare), blue, violet, purple, pink, magenta, and red. Corollas can be tubular or funnel shaped. Penstemons come in many colors, red, pink, white, yellow, orange, blue, and purple. They come
They have opposite leaves, partly tube-shaped, and two-lipped flowers and seed capsules. The most distinctive feature of the genus is the prominent staminode, an infertile stamen. The staminode takes a variety of forms in the different species; while typically a long straight filament extending to the mouth of the corolla, some are longer and extremely hairy, giving the general appearance of an open mouth with a fuzzy tongue protruding and inspiring the common name beardtongue.

in many forms: tiny rock garden gems, herbaceous matted forms with tall flower spikes, and low shrubs from a few inches wide to 4 or 5 feet wide.

Front 70

Perovskia atriplicifolia

Back 70

Russian sage

Hint 70

Russian sage is a woody-based perennial of the mint family which typically grows 2-4' (less frequently to 5') tall and features finely-dissected, aromatic (when crushed), gray-green leaves on stiff, upright, square stems and whorls of two-lipped, tubular, light blue flowers tiered in branched, terminal panicles (12-15" high). Long summer bloom period. Perennial Plant Association Plant of the Year (1995).

Front 71

Phlox paniculata

Back 71

garden phlox; perennial phlox

Hint 71

hlox paniculata, commonly known as garden phlox, is native from New York to Iowa south to Georgia, Mississippi and Arkansas. It has escaped gardens and naturalized into areas beyond its original native range. In Missouri, it is typically found south of the Missouri River in moist or rich low woods, thickets, alluvial banks and gravel bars along streams and bluff bases (Steyermark). This is an upright perennial that grows in a clump to 2-4' tall and to 2-3' wide on stiff stems clad with conspicuously veined, opposite, pointed, elliptic, deep green leaves (to 4-6" long). Fragrant, tubular, pink-purple to white florets (to 3/4” diameter) are densely packed in large, tiered, domed terminal clusters (to 6-8") over a long July to September bloom period. Each individual floret has a long corolla tube and five flat petal-like lobes. Butterflies love the flowers. A large number of garden phlox cultivars in flower colors including white, lavender, pink, rose, red and bi-color area available in commerce. Cultivars resistant to powdery mildew are often the best choices. The name phlox is derived from the Greek word for flame.

Front 72

Phlox subulata

Back 72

ground pink; moss pink
flowers can be white or striped

Hint 72

Stems Herbaceous, decumbent, often reddish, hirsute, to 30cm long, from fibrous roots. Nodes not evenly spaced on stem.Leaves - Opposite or whorled, sessile, subulate, to 1.5cm long, 2mm wide, green.

Inflorescence - Terminal cymose or paniculate cluster of typically 3-9 flowers.

Flowers - Corolla salverform, pinkish, rose, white, or purplish. Corolla tube to 1.3cm long. Corolla lobes 5, notched at the apex, typically obovate, 1cm long, 6mm broad, glabrous. Stamens 5, borne near base of corolla tube at different heights. Calyx tube to 5mm long, 3mm broad, hirsute. Calyx lobes 5, attenuate, 2.5-3mm long.
Moss phlox (also moss pink, mountain phlox or creeping phlox) is a vigorous, spreading, mat-forming, sun-loving phlox that grows to only 6” tall but spreads to 24” wide. It is noted for it creeping habit, its linear to awl-shaped leaves (which retain some green in winter) and its profuse carpet of mid-spring flowers with notched flower petals. It is native to somewhat dry, rocky or sandy places, open woodland areas and slopes from Michigan, Ontario and New York south to Tennessee and mainly in the Appalachians to North Carolina. Loose clusters (cymes) of fragrant, tubular flowers (to 3/4” wide) bloom in April-May. Flowers are red-purple to violet-purple, pink or infrequently white. Each flower has five, flat, petal-like, rounded lobes that are distinctively notched. Linear to awl-shaped, green leaves (to 1” long). From Latin, subulata means awl-shaped in reference to the leaves. Vegetation mats purportedly resemble moss, hence the common name of moss phlox. Many cultivars of this plant are available in commerce featuring flower colors of blue/purple, pink, red and white.

Front 73

Phlox subulata

Back 73

ground pink; moss pink
flowers can be white or striped

Front 74

Platycodon grandiflorus

Back 74

balloon flower

Hint 74

Balloon flower is a clump-forming perennial that is so named because its flower buds puff up like balloons before bursting open into outward-to-upward-facing, bell-shaped flowers with five pointed lobes. Plants are native to slopes and meadows in China, Japan, Korea and Siberia. Purple-blue flowers (to 2-3” across) bloom throughout summer, singly or in small clusters, atop stems typically growing to 30” tall. Ovate to lance-shaped, toothed, blue-green leaves (to 2” long). Platycodon in Greek means broad bell in reference to the flower shape.

Front 75

Polygonatum odoratum 'Variegatum'

Back 75

variegated Solomon's seal

Hint 75

This Solomon's seal cultivar is a rhizomatous, upright, arching perennial which typically grows in a mound to 1-2' tall on unbranched, angular stems. Pairs of small, bell-shaped, white flowers on short pedicels dangle in spring from the leaf axils along and underneath the arching stems. Flowers are sweetly fragrant. Young stems are tinged with maroon. Flowers are followed by blue-black berries in autumn. Ovate, conspicuously parallel-veined, variegated leaves (to 4" long) are soft green with white tips and margins. Leaves turn an attractive yellow in autumn. The common name is usually considered to be in reference to the large, circular seals (leaf stalk scars) located on the rhizomes. However, Edgar Denison suggests that the name actually refers to purported "wound sealing properties" of the polygonatums. Variegated foliage is attractive in flower arrangements even if stems are not in flower.

Front 76

Primula xpolyantha

Back 76

polyanthus primrose

Hint 76

LEAVES: basal, obovate, tapering to a winged petiole, wrinkled FLOWER: solitary or many-flowered umbels on scapes longer than leaves, each flower up to 1 1/2" across, variety of colors with yellow centers; many cultivars fragrant. SEASON OF BLOOM: mid-winter to spring
GROWTH HABIT: 6" to 12" erect flower stems, basal leaves

Front 77

Pulmonaria longifolia

Back 77

long-leafed lungwort

Hint 77

This clump-forming lungwort is, like many of the hostas, more valued for its attractive foliage than its flowers. Typically grows 8-12" high and spreads to 24" wide. Features mostly basal clumps of long and narrow (as the species name suggests), silvery spotted, dark green leaves (up to 12" long). Stem leaves are much smaller. Drooping clusters (terminal cymes) of large, funnel-shaped, violet-blue flowers bloom in early spring. Common name of lungwort is in reference to the supposed resemblance of the spotted leaves to a diseased lung.

Front 78

Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm'

Back 78

Goldsturm black-eyed Susan

Hint 78

This coneflower cultivar is an upright, rhizomatous, clump-forming perennial which typically grows 2-3' tall. Features large, daisy-like flowers (3-4" across) with deep yellow rays and dark brownish-black center disks. Flowers appear singly on stiff, branching stems in a prolific, long-lasting, mid-summer-to-fall bloom. Oblong to lanceolate, dark green foliage.

Front 79

Salvia x sylvestris

Back 79

perennial salvia (formerly Salvia nemorosa)

Hint 79

There are numerous cultivars widely grown in horticulture. Many of them are hardy to –18 °C., with flowers ranging in color from violet, to violet-blue, rosy pink, and even white. All are perennial, with numerous leafy stems growing from the base at the beginning of summer. The many inflorescences have closely spaced whorls of small flowers with brightly colored calyces.

Front 80

Santolina chamaecyparissus

Back 80

lavender cotton

Hint 80

Lavender cotton or gray santolina is a small, semi-woody, tender sub-shrub with aromatic, evergreen, silver-gray foliage. It typically grows in a mound to 2' tall spreading to 3' wide. It is native to the Mediterranean area (southern Europe and northern Africa). Pinnately divided leaves have a rough texture and musky fragrance. Button-like, 3/4-inch wide, bright yellow flowers (rays absent) of this aster family member bloom in summer atop stalks rising well above the foliage to 6" tall. Flowers may not appear if plants are regularly trimmed/sheared. Plants are often grown in herb gardens. Foliage has historically been used as an insecticide and moth repellant. Synonymous with and formerly known as S. incana.

Front 81

Santolina rosmarinifolia

Back 81

green lavender cotton

Hint 81

To truly appreciate green santolina, you need to brush your hand lightly and slowly across the flowerheads. The rubber-eraser-like capitula on the upright stems will spring back from the disturbance, hitting the side of your hand.Santolina rosmarinifolia is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). The deep green foliage on this evergreen shrub is linear and segmented. The rounded shrub grows 1-2 feet tall and as wide. The yellow flowers bloom in the spring.
It is hardy to zone 7. It is in leaf 12-Jan It is in flower from Jul to August. The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by Insects.

Front 82

Scabiosa columbaria

Back 82

pincushion flower

Hint 82

The small scabious is a short lived perennial that grows in a clump to 2 ft (0.6 m) tall and 3 ft (0.9 m) wide. It is much branched and has gray-green, rather hairy leaves. The basal leaves are lance shaped, 2-6 in (5.1-15.2 cm) long, and the stem leaves are dissected or twice dissected (the uppermost finely divided). Numerous lavender-blue flowerheads 1.5 in (3.8 cm) across are borne over an extended flowering period from summer until the first frost.

Front 83

Sedum hybrids

Back 83

showy sedum; showy stonecrop (upright form)

Hint 83

All sedums have succulent green leaves in trailing rosettes or upright mounds. Leaves of many species turn red in late fall; some cultivars have brilliantly colored or variegated foliage. Many sedums have showy pink, red, or purple flowers in fall. Others bloom from May through August with white or yellow flowers.

Front 84

Sedum spurium

Back 84

two row sedum; two row stonecrop (prostrate form)

Hint 84

procumbent to prostrate stems are adorned with small, fan-shaped, crenate foliage that is green, heavily bronzed, or red in color, and topped by interesting flat-topped infloresences in early to mid-Summer, having miniature star-shaped flowers with five petals that are red, pink, or white in colored, pink, or pinkish-white, flowering profusely for two to four weeks in June and July, especially on mature plants that are under a moderate amount of stress (or put another way, those that have it "good" in terms of soil, moisture, and nutrition tend to have predominantly lush vegetative growth rather than reproductive growth)
erect inflorescences occur above the foliage, with the vertical peduncles radiating flat-topped pedicels at the apex, bejeweled with many five-petaled, star-like flowers

Front 85

Sempervivum species and hybrids

Back 85

hens-and-chicks

Hint 85

Cactus-like plant has larger spirals of succulent leaves with smaller spirals clinging to the sides (like 'chicks').

Front 86

Stachys byzantina

Back 86

lamb's ear

Hint 86

Lamb's ears is grown primarily for its thick, soft, velvety, silver-gray leaves which typically form a rapidly spreading mat approximately 4-6" off the ground. Leaves are evergreen in warm climates, but will depreciate considerably in harsh winters. Erect, small-leaved flowering stems with terminal spikes of insignificant, tiny, purplish-pink flowers appear in summer rising above the foliage to 10-15" tall. Many gardeners remove the flowering stems to enhance the ground cover effect. Dense rosettes of woolly, tongue-shaped, gray-green leaves (to 4" long) spread by runners. Leaf shape and texture resemble a lamb's ear, hence the common name. Several cultivars of this species, the best of which is 'Helene Von Stein', have the advantages over the species of having better summer foliage and rarely producing flowering stems.

Front 87

Stokesia laevis

Back 87

Stokes aster

Hint 87

Stokes' aster is native to the southeastern U.S. It is an upright perennial which features fluffy, cornflower-like, soft blue flowers (to 4" across) on generally erect, leafy stems growing 18-24" tall from a rosette of oblong-lanceolate, medium green leaves (to 8" long). Rosettes are evergreen in warm winter climates. Long summer bloom.

Front 88

Teucrium chamaedrys

Back 88

germander

Hint 88

Wall germander is a shrubby, woody-based, clump-forming, broad leaf evergreen which is grown ornamentally for its attractive, aromatic, evergreen foliage. Features 3/4", oval, scalloped, shiny dark green leaves on numerous ascending and spreading stems which collectively form a mound of foliage 12-15" tall. Leaves resemble miniature oak leaves (chamaedrys means "ground oak" in reference to the leaf shape and ground cover habit). Whorls of two lipped, tubular, pink to purple (less frequently white) flowers (typical mint family) appear in terminal clusters in late spring to early summer. Leaves were formerly used in a variety of medicinal treatments.

Front 89

Thymus praecox

Back 89

creeping thyme

Hint 89

This thyme is a creeping, woody-based perennial which is primarily used as a small ground cover, but also has limited culinary value. Numerous somewhat woody stems form a flat mat (2-6" tall) with tiny, rounded, fuzzy, blue-green leaves. Leaves are aromatic, but strength of scent varies according to habitat and season. Clusters of tiny, tubular, whitish to rose-purple flowers appear in summer. Flowers are attractive to bees. Plants are evergreen in mild winters.

Front 90

Tiarella wherryi

Back 90

foamflower

Hint 90

Tirarella are shade garden all-stars. Maplelike leaves usually marked with darker veining or pronounced crimson pattern. Panicles of starry flowers are held well above the foliage. Perfect under deciduous shrubs that get some sunlight under them. Non-creeping form. Cream colored, starry flowers in simple racemes in late spring. In a cool shaded spot it grows luxuriantly, showing its bronze marbling of the leaves to best advantage. Also tolerates dry quite well.

Front 91

Tricyrtis hirta

Back 91

toadlily

Hint 91

Toad lily is perhaps best known for its unique flowers, ability to bloom in shade and late summer to early fall bloom time. Features small, lily-like flowers (1 inch long) with six showy tepals (similar appearing sepals and petals). Flowers appear in the upper leaf axils and stem ends either solitary or more often in small clusters (cymes) of 2-3 flowers each. White to pale lilac flowers with heavy purple spotting. Arching, unbranched stems grow upright to 2-3' tall. Sometimes called hairy toad lily because all parts of the plant are hairy. This species of toad lily is not rhizomatous. Oval to oblong leaves (3-6" long) with parallel veins and clasping leaf bases.

Front 92

Verbena canadensis

Back 92

spreading verbena

Hint 92

Stems - Multiple from the base, from a woody caudex and fibrous roots, erect to ascending, herbaceous, to 30cm tall, typically simple, 4-angled, villousLeaves - Opposite, petiolate, decussate. Petioles to -2cm long, often with decurrent leaf tissue, villous. Blades to +3cm long and broad, ovate, pinnatifid, pubescent. Ultimate divisions acute.

Verbena canadensis (L.) Britt. - Rose Verbena


Family - Verbenaceae

Stems - Multiple from the base, from a woody caudex and fibrous roots, erect to ascending, herbaceous, to 30cm tall, typically simple, 4-angled, villous.



Leaves - Opposite, petiolate, decussate. Petioles to -2cm long, often with decurrent leaf tissue, villous. Blades to +3cm long and broad, ovate, pinnatifid, pubescent. Ultimate divisions acute.



Inflorescence - Terminal compact spike, appearing cymose in flower. Each flower subtended by a single bract. Bracts villous, lanceolate-attenuate, to 9mm long, 2mm broad.
Flowering - March - November.

Front 93

Veronica spicata

Back 93

spike speedwell

Hint 93

2" leaves are glossy and lanceolate
toothed except at base and tip
Blue flowers 1/4' in diameter but have long purple stamens, held in dense 1-3' long spikelife recemes at the ends of the stems

Front 94

Vinca minor

Back 94

periwinkle; vinca vine

Hint 94

stems exude milky sap when broken
opposite, evergreen elliptic leaves
thin, wiry stems
creeping groundcover
blue flowers in spring
primary blooming is in April, but sporadic blooming continues into summer
has thin, wiry stems