Archive for the Plant Focus department

Plant Focus: Pasque Flower

March 31, 2020 • 2 Comments

The spring days are growing longer, the birds are quickly emptying the feeders, and the flowers have begun to emerge. Bulbs like crocus and daffodils are in bloom, but in time, only the old, tattered foliage will remain. Some of the woodland wildflowers, like trillium and bluebells, are also in color, but they too will quickly disappear. Unlike so many early bloomers, pasque flower, will perform well in the spring and continue to be showy well into the summer.

Botanically referred to as Pulsatilla vulgaris, pasque flower sends up purple, reddish, pink or white 2-1/2 inch flowers in April and May. These flowers have 6 large petals (actually sepals) and a bright yellow center. After flowering begins, the spring leaves emerge and are equally showy. These leaves glisten with silky hairs that are exceptionally ornamental.

The performance has just begun, for when the spring flowers finish blooming, the seed pods form. These beautiful, silky, puff balls last well into the summer when all of the flowers have passed. The beautiful spring blossoms and clusters of seed pods make this an outstanding perennial for the front of the border or rock garden. Pasque flower grows 10 inches tall and 10 inches wide, and in our climate, it thrives in both full or partial sun. The plant will last for several years in most gardens, but performs best in a well-drained soil. Rarely does it suffer from insect or disease problems.

Pasque flower is somewhat difficult to find, but is well worth the effort. Young plants offered at garden centers quickly mature to showy clumps of vibrant flowers and striking foliage. ‘Rubra’ is the red form and the species is the purple form (just Pulsatilla vulgaris). These varieties are the easiest to locate, but I especially like the pink form, which, unfortunately, is rarely available. However, a more common German variety called ‘Papageno’ is a wonderful mixture which contains all colors, including the elusive pink.

Take advantage of the many features of this very underused perennial. Few spring-blooming perennials rival the extended display that pasque flower can provide. A tidy habit, wonderful flowers, and beautiful foliage are just some of the traits that make pasque flower a worthwhile addition to your garden.

Pasque flower

Botanical name: Pulsatilla vulgaris
Plant type: Perennial
Plant size: 10 inches wide and tall
Flower colors: Purple (most common), red, pink, or white
Flower size: 2-1/2 inches
Bloom period: April and May
Leaf colors: Silky green
Leaf size: Up to 6 inches long
Light: Full to partial sun
Soil: Prefers well-drained soil
Uses: Front of the perennial border or in the rock garden
Remarks: Leaves appear after the flowers. Silky hairs on the leaves make them glisten. Puffy seed heads form after the flower blooms are finished and are as attractive as the flowers.

George Papadelis is the owner of Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy and Shelby Township, MI.

Read more: Growing pasque flower from seed

Plant Focus: Viola

March 3, 2020 • Leave a Comment

*Viola cornuta* (Photo: Jonathon Hofley / Michigan Gardener)

by George Papadelis

In the spring, the earliest bedding plants to appear at your local garden center are violas and pansies. These are usually available in flats and look similar except violas have smaller flowers than pansies. So, what is the real difference between violas and pansies and is this the same “violet” that has spread all over my friend’s yard? As a matter of fact, the plants referred to as “violas,” “pansies,” and “sweet violets” are all in the same group of plants, namely the genus Viola.

*Viola cornuta* ‘Jersey Gem’ (Photo: White Flower Farm)

Pansies are the result of crossing different species of violas. These “hybrids” (called Viola x wittrockiana) have flowers 2 to 4 inches across and include an incredible range of colors including white, black and practically every color in the rainbow. These plants will tolerate freezes and frosts, so gardeners can plant them as early as April 1 here in Michigan. They will flower profusely all spring and if old flowers are removed, they will most likely continue through the summer. The cool fall will encourage more flowering, which often lasts until the winter holidays. In our climate, pansies planted in a protected area usually return one more season for another performance, although somewhat less spectacular. Protected areas include the south side of the house and the cooler east side.

The smaller-flowering viola (Viola cornuta), sold in flats every spring, has evolved greatly. Several series such as the “Princess” series and the “Sorbets” have introduced new colors and color combinations that rival the closely related Johnny jump-up (Viola tricolor). Violas planted in our climate last one or two seasons. Just like pansies, spent flowers must be removed to encourage flowering through the hot summer.

Viola

Botanical Name: Viola cornuta (vy-OH-lah kor-NEW-tah)
Common Name: Violet, horned violet
Plant Type: Hardy annual/tender perennial
Plant Size: 5-10 inches tall
Flower Color: White, purple, violet, yellow, maroon
Flower Size: 1-1/2 inches wide
Bloom Period: Spring to fall
Light: Partial sun to sun
Soil: Well-drained, moist
Hardiness: Zone 5
Uses: Areas that are partially sunny, yet moist
Remarks: Remove spent flowers to encourage blooms through the summer

The dangerous member of this group is Viola odorata or “sweet violets” which are often just referred to as “violets.” These are very perennial, produce fragrant, small flowers in the spring, and may spread everywhere if you let them. Like violas and pansies, sweet violets produce seeds which may germinate and produce more plants. However, sweet violets also send underground stems called stolons in all directions, which may be difficult to find and remove. This invasive nature makes it an excellent groundcover or a wildflower in a naturalized site. Sweet violets have also been planted for as long as gardens have existed. The flower market in Athens, Greece sold sweet violets as early as 400 B.C. Its fragrance has been used by the perfume industry for centuries and is still being used by some today.

All members of the genus Viola produce edible flowers. Chefs all over the world use these showy blossoms as an attractive garnish, especially on salads. The blossoms also make great cut flowers and are among the most popular flowers for pressing. Members of the Viola family grow best in partial sun but full sun can be tolerated. High temperatures and drying out will cause stress, so keep the soil moist and cool if possible.

*Viola cornuta* ‘Cuty’ (Photo: White Flower Farm/Michael Dodge)

Gardeners looking for something different may want to try the purple-leafed viola (Viola labridorica) for its attractive foliage and fluorescent purple flowers. Other violas such as Viola koreana even have attractive silver patterned leaves. The bird’s foot violet (Viola pedata) is easy to identify because the leaves look just like a bird’s foot.

From a naturalizing habit to being self-contained, the genus Viola is so diverse that every gardener is sure to have a spot for at least one variety!

George Papadelis is the owner of Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy and Shelby Township, MI.

Plant Focus: Sourwood

September 30, 2019 • Leave a Comment

Photo: Steve Nikkila / Perennial Favorites

by Eric Grant

The autumn winds of October bring thoughts of pumpkins, apple cider and hay rides. The season is announced with the anticipation of a kaleidoscopic array of fall colors. These changing hues celebrate the landscape at one of its finest moments. Few trees can herald the autumnal change with the vibrancy of sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum). Sometimes called the sorrel tree (referring to its leaves), or lily of the valley tree (for its blooms), fall is only one of four outstanding seasons for this little known tree of wonders.

“Spring green” must have been defined by the foliage of this tree. Its soft, but stately outline breaks the winter rest by cloaking itself in the freshest shades of green. Its glossy foliage always seems to shimmer as it progresses through its rainbow range of color. When other flowering trees have finished their brief show, sourwood is about to embark upon a stunning and extended display of fragrant blooms. By mid June, the branches of this tree are generously graced with delicate fronds, which gently hang amidst the now dark green foliage. These creamy white panicles are abundantly tipped with small white “bells” offering an effect not unlike Victorian lace thoughtfully woven throughout the canopy. Sourwood is a tree that refuses to leave its glory with faded flowers. It continues to build its drama beyond the blooms, which last for weeks. Even once the flowers fade, the skeletal lace that held them remains for months, and continues to endow the tree with visual pleasure from the end of spring to beyond the autumn. This is a showy feat upheld by few other trees.

Now comes October. Sourwood is in the midst of act three. The performance is one of color and form, which on its own upstages burning bush, sugar maples, and other outstanding fall color plants. In their presence, however, sourwood only stands to enhance and compliment their beauty. This tree now offers a vibrant display of yellow and purple splashed amidst its predominant color—one of the most brilliant reds I’ve seen on any plant! The intensity of color is richly translucent and always draws remarks of awe. By October’s end, even though it will have dropped its leaves, sourwood does not abandon aesthetic pleasure. As winter winds approach, it again reveals its soft structure and its dark and furrowed bark, a most appealing silhouette against the winter snow. It waits in rest, to begin its cycle again, secure that its series of encores will never disappoint its audience.

Native from the Midwest into the Smoky Mountains, this problem-free tree will mature to 25 feet or so. Given its medium size and a slightly rounded, pyramidal shape, it is easily incorporated into most landscape settings. It enjoys full sun, but tolerates light or dappled shade equally well, and is often found thriving along woodland borders. Sourwood performs well in average to acidic soils, and from loamy peat to sandy beds. While it prefers relatively moist soils, once established, it can even withstand dry seasons. This tree appreciates some shelter, but for the Michigan gardener, is generally less temperamental than dogwoods or magnolias, which are more common flowering trees of comparable size.

Sourwood is a tree of prominence in any season and deserves consideration in the modern landscape. It is rewarding to find a plant with so many attributes that has not been overused. In fact, as one of landscape’s best kept secrets, its novelty offers one of the highest prizes for gardeners—this is a plant your neighbor doesn’t have!

Sourwood

Botanical name: Oxydendrum arboreum (ox-ih-DEN-drum ar-BORE-ee-um)
Plant type: Deciduous tree
Plant size: 25-30 feet tall, 20 feet wide
Growth rate: Slow
Habit: Pyramidal shape, with drooping branches
Hardiness: Zone 5
Flower color: White
Flower size: 1/4 inch long on 4- to 10-inch long clusters
Bloom period: Summer
Leaf color: Green in spring, turning to dark green; red, yellow and purple in the fall
Leaf size: 3-8 inches long, 1-1/2 to 3-1/2 inches wide
Bark: Grayish brown to black
Light: Full sun to partial shade. Flowering and fall color are best in full sun.
Soil: Well-drained, average to acidic, moist soil. Does fairly well in dry soils.
Uses: Specimen tree
Remarks: Native American tree; four-season interest.

Plant Focus: Obedient Plant

September 4, 2019 • Leave a Comment

Physostegia virginiana ‘Pink Bouquet’ (Photo: Jonathon Hofley / Michigan Gardner) — *Physostegia virginiana* ‘Pink Bouquet’ (Photo: Jonathon Hofley / Michigan Gardener)

By George Papadelis

Obedient Plant is a truly versatile plant, with many desirable features that make this North American native an asset in a sunny perennial garden. The flowers somewhat resemble a dragon’s head and thus the common name of “false dragonhead” evolved. These one-inch flowers come in white or shades of pink and are formed in straight rows along a narrow, pointed, spike-like flower head. Although it is a bit deceiving, the common name “obedient plant” developed for another good reason. If pushed to one side, the individual flowers stay in that position for quite a while and are therefore “obedient.” In his book, The Harrowsmith Perennial Garden, Patrick Lima describes it this way: “If you have nothing else to do, you can reposition the individual flowers, which are attached to their stems by the botanical equivalent of a ball-and-socket joint.”

The term “obedient” cannot be confused with the plant’s growth habit, which is, in fact, quite the opposite. If left to do as it wants, this plant produces underground stolons that will make a large clump from a single plant in just one season. This is especially true in well-cultivated, rich soil. Therefore, I recommend planting in poorer soil or be prepared to divide this spreader every year or two in the spring.

Physostegia virginiana ‘Variegata’ (Photo: Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardner) — *Physostegia virginiana* ‘Variegata’ (Photo: Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener)

Left: Physostegia virginiana (Photo: Stephen Still) Right: Physostegia virginiana ‘Variegata’ (Photo: White Flower Farm/Michael Dodge)

Obedient plant likes full sun and may require staking if planted in part sun or in rich soil. It will begin blooming in August and will continue through the end of September. It has strong, straight stems and long-lasting flowers that make this a popular and beautiful cut flower.

Several different varieties are available. ‘Summer Snow’ is a nice 28-inch tall, white selection, but the most popular color is pink. ‘Pink Bouquet’ is widely used, but grows 3 to 4 feet tall. For a deeper pink on a less floppy, 20-inch tall plant, try ‘Vivid.’ For a wonderful combination of flowers and foliage, use ‘Variegata,’ which has the typical pink blooms but also glowing, white-edged leaves. These stand out in any flower bed and give this variety a much longer season of interest.

If you are willing to curb this plant’s appetite for space, Physostegia may work well for you. As a cut flower or a late-blooming perennial, this plant grows easily. If all else fails, you can always show a fellow gardener why this is called the obedient plant!

Obedient Plant

Botanical name: Physostegia virginiana (figh-so-STEE-jee-a vir-jin-ee-AH-na)
Common name: Obedient plant, false dragonhead
Plant type: Perennial
Plant size: 20 to 42 inches tall
Flower colors: White, rich pink
Flower size: 1 inch long, on spikes above the foliage
Bloom period: August and September
Leaves: Green, narrow, 3 to 5 inches long; also green with white edges
Light: Sun to partial shade
Soil: Grows in most soils; poorer soils will slow rapid spreading
Uses: Cut flowers, wildflower garden, larger naturalized areas
Remarks: Will spread aggressively. If used in the perennial border, plan on lifting and dividing every year or two. May require staking when grown in partial shade or highly fertile soil.

George Papadelis is the owner of Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy and Shelby Township, MI.

Plant Focus: Glory of the snow

March 5, 2019 • Leave a Comment

Chionodoxa ‘Pink Giant’ (Photo: Wayside Gardens) — *Chionodoxa* ‘Pink Giant’ (Photo: Wayside Gardens)

By George Papadelis

As spring approaches, gardeners seek the familiar signs of yet another growing season. Even before trees produce their leaves and the spring equinox arrives, the garden can be alive with color from early blooming bulbs. In February, some warming can bring up an occasional flower or two, but by March, color is almost guaranteed through the planting of crocus, snowdrops, or this month’s featured plant, glory of the snow (Chionodoxa).

Chionodoxa luciliae (Photo: Netherlands Flower Bulb Info. Center) — *Chionodoxa luciliae* (Photo: Netherlands Flower Bulb Info. Center)

By late March (sometimes early April), glory of the snow produces 6 to 10 one-inch wide single flowers that last 3 to 4 weeks. Besides their vibrant color, these starry flowers are unique in that each blossom has a distinct white center. The species Chionodoxa forbesii (formerly C. luciliae) has glowing blue flowers, while the variety ‘Pink Giant’ has rosy-pink blooms. Both grow 6 to 10 inches tall. Since the flowers are small, a planting of 20 to 50 bulbs would provide the best show. This is also economically practical since the bulbs are usually inexpensive.

*Chionodoxa gigantea* (Photo: Netherlands Flower Bulb Info. Center)

Glory of the snow is very easy to grow and amongst the hardiest of all bulbs. Only well-drained soil and some sun are required for good performance. Bulbs should be planted with bulb fertilizer in the fall about 3 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart. Glory of the snow self-sows and divides itself very freely to form self-sustaining clumps that may last effortlessly for years. However, best results occur if the younger bulbs or “offsets” are dug up in May and replanted with fresh soil, fertilizer, and adequate space.

The only pest problem may be a hungry squirrel looking for a freshly planted snack. If this is a threat in your garden, some chicken wire buried above the bulbs usually does the trick.

Plant glory of the snow in clumps around trees, in the rock garden, or even in your lawn. It works wonderfully alone or in combination with other spring-blooming bulbs. Later-blooming bulbs such as tulips can also be placed in the same planting hole since they require deeper planting depths of 6 to 10 inches. Glory of the snow thrives in woodland situations if tree leaves are shredded, mulched, or raked off to assist them in spring emergence.

This tiny spring treasure is a must for any garden because of its versatility, performance, and durability. Try it almost anywhere! Just a few minutes of digging in the fall will allow glory of the snow to grace you with its presence for many years to come.

Glory of the snow (Chionodoxa)

Pronunciation: ky-on-oh-DOK-suh

Plant Type: Bulb

Plant Size: 5-10 inches tall

Flower Color: Rich blue with white centers (most common); also pink, white

Flower Size: 1 inch wide

Bloom Period: Late March – Early April

Leaves: Narrow, upright sprays

Light: Sun-light shade

Soil: Well-drained

Hardiness: Zone 3

Uses: Border, woodland areas, rock garden, nauralizer, lawn

Remarks: Plant in the fall, 3-4 inches deep

Plant Focus: Colchicum and Fall Crocus

August 31, 2018 • Leave a Comment

colchicum-hill — Fall-blooming crocus or colchicum bulbs are durable, long-lived, low maintenance wonders.

Gardeners looking to extend their garden’s blooming season far into the fall have a limited palette from which to choose. Fall pansies continue to grow in popularity and usually provide color until a hard freeze between Thanksgiving and Christmas. In a protected area these will often return the following spring and bloom until the heat of the summer knocks them out. For reliable October perennials, fall-blooming crocus or colchicum will do the trick. They come in a variety of colors ranging from rose, pink, violet, and white. Both produce chalice-shaped blossoms that poke through fallen leaves when you least expect them.

There are actually two types of these fall bloomers. It is very easy to confuse the autumn-flowering Crocus or “fall crocus” (a member of the iris family) with the Colchicum or “autumn crocus” (a member of the lily family) because of similarly shaped and colored flowers. Some differences, however, do exist.

Colchicum usually have layered blossoms on taller plants that flower a little later than autumn-flowering crocus. The other major difference is the price: fall-blooming crocus is much less expensive than colchicum.

Both types will produce green foliage in the spring that turns yellow by June. In fall, blooms appear without foliage, thus producing the nickname “naked boys” for colchicum. Crocus require a planting depth of 3 to 4 inches while colchicum prefer a 4 to 6 inch planting depth. Both prefer well-drained soil amended with bulb fertilizer, and both will tolerate full sun to partial shade. Both are reliable as naturalizers, which means they will return yearly without any fuss. Use groundcovers such as ivy, pachysandra, myrtle, or even your existing lawn to camouflage the spring foliage. This may also protect the bulb from getting damaged when, inevitably, its location is forgotten during the summer. Several colchicum varieties are readily available and will bloom this fall whether you plant them outside or not. These corms will even flower on a table without water or soil, and will survive as long as they are planted outside shortly thereafter.

All colchicum are poisonous, so squirrels are not likely to present a problem. Colchicum also makes an interesting and attractive cut flower because it doesn’t require water and stays fresh for days. The hybrid variety ‘Waterlily’ is 8 to 12 inches tall and has large, fully double, pink blooms in early to mid October. ‘Lilac Wonder’ has thinner petals and single pink blooms in early October. Other varieties exist but expect to pay more for rare ones such as the double white version.

Fall crocus (Crocus speciosus) are far more economical and therefore are perfect for mass plantings. The lavender-blue flowers open in the sun and close at night or during inclement weather. Although squirrels like these corms, other food is readily available in the fall during planting time. Once established, fall crocus divide into “cormlets” so easily that it would be almost impossible for animals to get every last one.

These 5- to 6-inch tall beauties are snow tolerant and naturalize exceptionally well. In addition to Crocus speciosus, with a little extra winter protection you can also try saffron crocus (Crocus sativus), from which the highly sought after saffron is harvested.

Use fall-blooming crocus or colchicum bulbs in perennial beds, rock gardens, or tucked beneath deciduous trees or shrubs. They are durable, long-lived, low maintenance wonders and a perfect way to end the garden’s flowering season.

George Papadelis is the owner of Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy and Shelby Township, MI.

Plant Focus: Plumbago

January 6, 2018 • Leave a Comment

By George Papadelis

In the fall, most gardeners are amazed to find a multitude of blooming perennials that are available to brighten up their autumn garden. Besides mums, gardeners may choose from many underused late-blooming plants such as toad lily, butterfly bush, caryopteris, perennial lobelia, yellow wax bells, asters, hibiscus, and many more. Unfortunately, many gardeners shop for flowers in the spring and summer when the fall bloomers are difficult to appreciate and are often overlooked.

One of the most versatile and underused fall boomers is plumbago (Ceratostigma plumbaginoides). This perennial may be used as a groundcover in masses or as a clump-forming accent plant. It forms vibrant blue flowers that last from late summer well into the fall months. In the fall, the olive green foliage turns a bronze-red that provides a tasteful contrast to the bright blue blossoms.

Plumbago grows 8 to 12 inches tall and will grow in both sun or almost full shade. It prefers well-drained organic soil especially when winters are wet. To ensure overwintering, plant by late September so plants will become well established before winter sets in. Also provide a protective layer of mulch in late November or early December to eliminate soil temperature fluctuations. During the winter, plumbago dies completely to the ground and then emerges late in the spring. Gardeners need to be patient for this new growth to appear.

Plumbago’s small blue flowers are a great source of fall color in rock gardens and short border plantings. Also use it as a unique underplanting for trees and shrubs because of its beautiful color and texture. Whatever its use, plumbago’s brilliant flowers, excellent fall color, and short growth habit make this a versatile plant in any garden needing plants with late season interest.

George Papadelis is the owner of Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy and Shelby Township, MI.

Plant Focus: Columbine

May 16, 2017 • 1 Comment

columbine-pink-0517 — Columbines flower from late spring to early summer for about 3 to 4 weeks. Photo: Eric Hofley / Michigan Gardener

By George Papadelis

A garden without columbine is simply incomplete. Columbine (Aquilegia) comes in a wide range of colors. It produces masses of brilliant 1-to 2-inch flowers that are exquisite when appreciated up close as well as from a distance. They grow in light to moderate shade and flower from late spring to early summer for about 3 to 4 weeks. During this period, few plants can produce a show of color that rivals this one. As an effective source of color, no shade garden should be without this plant.

Most columbine varieties are readily available since this plant grows from seed that is easy to find. Young plants that have not been subjected to a sufficient cold period usually do not flower during the first season. By the second season, columbine will reach its peak and flower profusely. By the third year, plants usually decline in performance and will rarely overwinter for the fourth season. This is one of columbine’s shortcomings and should be realized before a gardener’s expectations are not met. However, many columbines drop seeds after flowering that may germinate and produce offspring in a similar color range.

A popular variety is a mixture called ‘McKana’s Giants.’ These have huge flowers on 36-inch plants in a wonderful mixture that includes reds, yellows, blues, pinks, and whites. Another popular type is the Songbird series. These individual varieties have names like ‘Blue Jay,’ ‘Dove’ and ‘Robin’ that sport colors like blue, white, and pink respectively. Another new one is the Barlow series. These have interesting double flowers and come in colors like ‘Black Barlow,’ ‘Blue Barlow,’ and ‘Rose Barlow.’

Dwarf varieties, called fan columbine, also exist. These only grow about 6 inches tall and come in blue or white.

The native varieties like Aquilegia canadensis and Aquilegia crysantha have bicolored red and yellow blossoms and all yellow blossoms, respectively. These flowers are a little smaller but these two are best for reseeding to naturalize a shady area.

For the enthusiast, collector or obsessed gardener, several unusual varieties can be found. Look for ‘Ruby Port’ which has interesting fully double maroon-red flowers—spectacular when viewed up close! Also look for the sweetly scented, chocolate-brown flowers of Aquilegia viridiflora—very rare! Some varieties like ‘Lime Frost’ even have variegated foliage. Hybridizers have produced hundreds of variations in interesting colors and forms to keep any gardener in awe.

Columbine has come a long way since its humble beginnings and deserves a place in the shade garden or even the rock garden. Try some short ones or try some tall ones, try some white ones or try some black ones. What ever your taste may be, columbine surely has a plant that’s right for you.

At a glance: Columbine

Botanical name
Aquilegia (ah-kwi-LEE-gee-a)

Plant type
Perennial

Plant size
6-36 inches tall

Flower colors
Wide variety – yellow, red, blue, purple, pink, white, pastels

Flower size
1-2 inches wide

Bloom period
Late spring to early summer

Leaves
Blue-gray-green color; attractive foliage from mid-spring to mid-summer

Light
Light shade to shade

Soil
Well-drained, moist

Hardiness
Zone 3

Uses
Shade garden, rock garden, naturalized areas

Remarks
Plant is short-lived: 1st year: young plants may not flower; 2nd year: peak blooms; 3rd year: weaker blooms; 4th year: not likely to overwinter. However, many plants will drop seeds that germinate for the following season. Ideally, grow columbine where other plants will camouflage the plant’s fading foliage in midsummer.

George Papadelis is the owner of Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy, Shelby Township, and Pontiac, MI.

Plant Focus: Cushion spurge (Euphorbia)

July 1, 2015 • 4 Comments

Left: Cushion Spurge (Euphorbia polychroma),Right: Purple wood spurge (Euphorbia amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’) — **Left**: Cushion Spurge (*Euphorbia polychroma*),
**Right**: Purple wood spurge (*Euphorbia amygdaloides* ‘Purpurea’)

by George Papadelis

While English gardeners have prized the merits of cushion spurge (euphorbia) for several years, most American (Michigan) landscapes have yet to benefit from their striking foliage, form, and flowers. Besides poinsettias, the most common American euphorbia is E. polychroma (also called E. epithymoides) whose bright yellow flower bracts in May are followed by an attractive 15-inch clump of pale green foliage. However, several exciting perennial varieties of euphorbias have become more readily available. For a truly stunning display from spring until fall try purple wood spurge (E. amygdaloides ‘Purpurea’). The purple-red new growth is followed by deep green leaves held on sturdy 15-inch stems providing the excellent form for which this genus is so well known. Clusters of chartreuse flowers in spring are an attractive contrast to the foliage. A light winter mulch is recommended but this easy-to-grow plant will tolerate a poor soil and prefers full or partial sun.

For similar striking foliage in your perennial border, E. griffithii ‘Fireglow’ has a much larger growth habit. The pinkish-purple young growth is followed by fiery orange flower bracts in May and June. Sturdy stems support this tidy clump until fall when the foliage ripens to hues of yellow and red. This hardier euphorbia has similar cultural requirements as the aforementioned varieties, but prefers more moisture.

For rock gardens or stone walls, donkey tail spurge (E. myrsinites) is an interesting, low-spreading plant. Stems covered with blue-gray leaves produce contrasting sulfur-yellow flower bracts only 6-inches tall in late spring. Unlike most other euphorbias, this variety tends to be short-lived, but is really worth its life span.

Another euphorbia unjustly underused is an old fashioned annual referred to as snow-on-the-mountain E. marginata. Grown for its showy foliage, lower leaves are a glossy green while upper leaves are white margined. This foliage combines beautifully with brightly colored annuals or can be used as an interesting cut flower. Try the more compact variety ‘Summer Icicle’ which only grows 24-inches tall.

Whether it’s annual or perennial, common or rare, euphorbias deserve a place in your border or rock garden. Please keep in mind that many euphorbias produce a sticky sap that can cause skin irritation.

George Papadelis is the owner of Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy, Shelby Township, and Pontiac, MI.

Plant Focus: Sweet Pea

June 16, 2012 • Leave a Comment

winter-elegance — ‘Winter Elegance’ / Photo: Park Seed Company

By George Papadelis

Annual sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus) is a beautiful climbing plant for almost any garden. The real appeal lies in their fragrance. The flowers emit a sweet, honey fragrance that perfumes the air. It is one of the most graceful and classic annuals, bearing pea-like flowers in a wide range of colors.

painted-lady — ‘Painted Lady’ / Photo: Johnny’s Selected Seeds

Sweet peas are a textbook example of the pros and cons in extensive hybridization. In 1696, the flower and fragrance of the wild sweet pea caught the eye (and nose) of the Franciscan monk, Father Cupani, as it bloomed in his monastery garden in Sicily. He shared the seed with a British plant collector who quickly distributed it throughout England where Lathyrus became quite a novelty. In the late 1800’s, breeding efforts resulted in bigger blooms, more colors, and interesting flowers that made sweet peas extremely popular. Many of these new “improved” varieties, however, lost their distinctive fragrance. The old-fashioned scented varieties became rare and were nearly lost. Now, both the attractive flowers and beautiful fragrance of Lathyrus odoratus are regaining popularity.

Most sweet peas will climb to about 6 feet by means of short, wiry tendrils. This will require support from a fence, wire, trellis, or even a shrub. In its native Italy, sweet peas were found growing along cool river banks, in open woods, and in pastures. There, temperatures were cool, soil was rich, and sunlight was strong. Therefore, avoid subjecting roots to dry, infertile soil and keep plants from overheating. Pinch off spent blooms to prevent energy loss to seed formation. This and proper cultural care will encourage flower production from summer until fall.

unwins-striped-mix — ‘Unwins Striped Mix’ / Photo: Johnny’s Selected Seeds

Sweet pea’s beautiful flowers, wonderful fragrance, and good vase life make them a terrific cut flower. Their climbing habit makes them perfect for vertical gardening, but even without support, sweet peas can create a colorful annual underplanting between large perennials or shrubs. In containers, they cascade vigorously over the sides and can be controlled with some selective pinching to maintain a tidy size and appearance. Sweet pea’s delicate foliage and classic flowers are great companions for the popular obelisks and wire plant towers that ornament many of today’s gardens.

Sweet peas are very easy to grow from seed. Plants may be started in a cool place indoors or planted directly outdoors when the soil is workable. Allow the seeds to soak for 36 hours and sink them 1 inch below the soil surface. Germination is reduced at temperatures above 75 degrees, so don’t wait until the hotter days of spring to get started outdoors. It is ideal to plant them in a cool location since peas do not perform well in high temperatures. Eastern exposure or protection from midday sun would be ideal.

Although the antique varieties are difficult to find, they are available from some obscure sources. Some of the more fragrant old favorites include ‘Painted Lady,’ a pink and white bicolor introduced in 1737; the rose and pink ‘Blanche Ferry’; the deep maroon ‘Black Knight’; and of course the deep purple and blue flowers of ‘Cupani’s Original.’ Modern hybrids are less fragrant, but produce exquisite large flowers in separate colors that include shades of blue, pink, lavender, white, salmon, and scarlet. There are even dwarf bush types available that only grow 10 to 12 inches tall and can be used to create a unique border plant. Today’s gardener can use sweet peas to satisfy their desire for unusual plants, fragrant flowers, or old-fashioned gardens.

old-spice-mix — ‘Old Spice Mix’ / Photo: Johnny’s Selected Seeds

Lathyrus odoratus
(LATH-ur-rus oh-dor-AH-tus)

Common name: Annual sweet pea / nasturtium
Plant type: Annual
Plant size: Height: 2-8 feet
Habit: Bushy or climbing annual
Flower colors: Pinks, reds, blues, purples, white
Flower size: 1-1/2 inches long, butterfly-like flower shape
Bloom period: Summer
Leaf color: Green to gray-green
Leaf size: 2 inches long
Light: Full sun to dappled shade
Soil: Rich, well-drained soil
Uses: Vertical accent; cut flower; adds fragrance to the garden
Remarks: Uses tendrils to climb; train up pyramids made from bamboo poles and string, or trellises. Add organic matter to the soil for best results. Deadhead to prolong blooming.

George Papadelis is the owner of Telly’s Greenhouse in Troy, MI.

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Lathyrus odoratus (LATH-ur-rus oh-dor-AH-tus)

Lathyrus odoratus
(LATH-ur-rus oh-dor-AH-tus)