This week’s features are best viewed in real-life at the nursery or in a completed landscape. Online photos just don’t do these beauties justice.
Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’
The rare foliage colour of Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’ provides a show that no other plant can. Lilac-white fairy bell flowers mature to small black berries. Its spreading properties make this plant ideal for a naturalized garden. Shown here is a good companion, Pratia pedunculata (syn. Isotoma).
The photo features the fairy-like bell flowers contrasted against the dark, black blades of grass. The small black berries will come later in the season.
Specs:
Semi-evergreen, part sun to shade.
Drought tolerant once established but prefers some moisture. Bulbous root system that naturalizes well, gradually forms dense clump if space allows.
Foliage to 12” H
Combines well with: Blechnum spicant and Hosta ‘Blue Mouse Ears’, also available at Selections Nursery.
Picea orientalis ‘Aurea’
This tree is the coolest ever! Charlie Brown and Dr. Seuss would definitely approve of its cartoon-like, surreal form. In spring, its new growth glows chartreuse-green and the male cones are bright purple pink.
Picea orientalis ‘Aurea’ is an ideal specimen tree, suitable as a focal point in many gardens.
Specs:
Dwarf tree only reaching 35’ H and 25’ W max.
Evergreen, drought tolerant once established.
The occasional dropping needles will acidify soil, great for a native planting or for making Blueberries more tasty.
Combines well with: Abelia ‘Edward Goucher’ and Hemerocallis ‘Gentle Shepherd’, also available at Selections Nursery.
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