Tag: 2003

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Cercis canadensis

2003 – Eastern Redbud
The eastern redbud is a small, deciduous tree reaching heights of 20 to 30 feet with an equal spread. It is often multi-stemmed and has heart-shaped leaves, but perhaps its most noteworthy attribute is the abundance of pinkish flowers that adorn the branches before the leaves appear in the spring. There are, however, several cultivars that are prized for other attributes including the purple-leaved ‘Forest Pansy’, the variegated ‘Silver Cloud’, and the white-blooming ‘Royal White’.

Able to grow in both sun and shade, redbuds are effective as forest edge trees or front yard specimens. They are somewhat susceptible to insect and disease pests but can be kept healthy with regular watering and fertilization.

 

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Hydrangea quercifolia

2003 – Oakleaf Hydrangea

The oakleaf hydrangea is a deciduous, mound-forming shrub that grows to a height of 4 to 8 feet with a wider spread. This coarse, irregular plant provides all-season interest. In summer it has large panicles of white flowers that turn pinkish and eventually tan as the season extends into autumn. Plants that get plenty of sun will turn red to purple in autumn and, in winter the cinnamon-colored, exfoliating bark stands out against the stark landscape. With proper placement in shrub borders, mass plantings, or as foundation plants, the oakleaf hydrangea will become a favorite in any garden.

Oakleaf hydrangeas prefer moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. They are susceptible to deer damage despite the toxicity of many of the parts of the plant.

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Pachysandra procumbens

2003 – Allegheny Spurge

Allegheny spurge, our native pachysandra, has many exceptional features that set it apart from the more familiar Asian pachysandras.  One of the main differences can be seen in the foliage; it has mottled, rounded, gray-green leaves that are held in loose whorls.  The leaves are generally evergreen, but may turn purplish and may exhibit some dieback in harsh winters.  In early spring, the plants form dense spikes of pinkish-white flowers.

Allegheny spurge is generally disease and pest resistant, clump-forming rather than spreading, and is a great ground cover for part to full shade in organic, moist, well-drained soil.