Ageratum houstonianum 'Blue Horizon'' 2008 |
Angelonia angustifolia 2009 |
Floss flower describes the thread-like appearance of the fluffy lavender-blue flowers on this annual that grows to 18-24 inches tall on stems with soft green leaves. Flowers bloom freely from spring to fall. Best growth occurs in rich, consistently moist, well-drained soils. This is a superb annual for beds, borders, edgings, mixed plantings, cutting gardens and containers. Attracts butterflies. Plant in full sun to part shade. Height: 1-2' and spread: 0-1' |
Two-lipped, snapdragon-like flowers in shades of lavender, lavender pink, white and purple bloom non-stop from spring to fall on these annuals that rise to only 10-12 inches tall. Floral display is especially showy when massed in beds and borders. As an added bonus, Serena Series cultivars may easily be grown from seed started indoors before the last spring frost. They thrive in full sun and tolerate heat, humidity and some drought. Height: 0-1' and spread: 0-1 '
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Asclepiasa curassavica
Blood Flower 2007 |
Begonia 'Bepared'
Dagon Wing Red 2002 |
When brushed with the hand, the stem-clasping, narrow-oblong, blue green leaves of this compact, shrubby, Missouri native aster release a fresh, intoxicating fragrance. Native to limestone glades and dry prairies, this aster produces an often profuse late summer to fall bloom of 1-inch diameter daisy-like flowers with purple rays and yellow centers. This is an excellent selection for wildflower gardens, naturalized areas, foundations or borders. Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Plant in full sun. Height: 2-3' and spread: 1-2 Feet |
Begonia 'Bepared' begonia Plant Type: Annual 2002 Plant of Merit A compact F1 hybrid, DRAGON WING RED features angelwing-like, shiny green leaves and large drooping scarlet flowers. This is a superb annual bloomer for sun or shade, providing continuous summer flowers for hanging baskets, window boxes, containers or bedding areas. Height: 1' and spread 1-2' |
Calibrachoa – Million Bells Terra Cotta 2003 |
Canna 'Striata' 2006 |
Also called million bells, this plant produces a profuse bloom of 1-inch wide miniature petunia-like flowers from spring to frost on compact, mounded plants growing 3-9 inches tall. Flowers are a blend of earthy yellow, bronze, apricot and brick red tones. Thrives in full sun, and its trailing habit makes it ideal for use in hanging baskets, window boxes and containers. Spread: 0-2'. |
This large tropical canna grows 4-6 feet tall. It thrives in high heat and will serve as an excellent free-flowering annual for sunny garden areas or containers. Large, upright, paddle-shaped, yellow and green striped leaves are magnificent, especially when backlit by sun. Orange flowers bloom in racemes atop purplish stems from summer to early autumn. Rhizomes should be planted in the garden after last spring frost date and lifted in fall after the first frost for overwintering indoors. Plant in full sun. Height: 4 - 6' and spread: 1.5 - 4' |
Cuphea 'David Verity'
Cigar Plant 2008
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Cuphea 'David Verity'
Cigar Plant 2010 |
Each tubular reddish-orange flower is suggestive of a lit cigar or firecracker. Flowers bloom profusely throughout the growing season on this densely branched sub-shrub to 20-30 inches tall. Best growth is in full sun with consistent moisture. This is a versatile annual for beds, borders, edgings, containers, hanging baskets or as a houseplant. One of the best hummingbird plants. Height: 1.5 - 2.5' and spread: 1.5 to 2.5' |
Celosia argentea (Plumosa Group) plants (commonly called feather celosia, plumed celosia or feathered amaranth) are old garden favorites that feature narrow-pyramidal, plume-like flower heads (4-10” long) composed of tiny, densely-packed, vividly-colored flowers. 'New Look' is a 1988 introduction that features bright red flower plumes and purple-bronze leaves. It typically grows to 14" tall with a spread to 12". Flowers bloom throughout summer into fall (sometimes to frost) on erect stems clad with spear-shaped bronze-purple leaves. Plant in full sun. Height: 1 - 1.5' and spread: 0.75 - 1' |
Cuphea hyssopifolia
Mexican Heather 2001 |
Cyperus Papyrus
King Tut
2009 |
A rounded, densely branched 1-2 foot tall tropical shrub. It produces quaint small lavender flowers along stems crowded with glossy green leaves. Blooms summer to frost. Good tolerance for heat and drought. A great accent plant when grown in sunny borders, containers or hanging baskets. Can be trimmed into almost any shape. Height: 1 to 2 feet and Spread: 0.75 to 2.5 feet |
This dwarf tender perennial sedge is a water-marginal that grows in a grass-like clump of leafless, triangular, green stems to 2-3 feet tall. Each stem is topped by a showy umbellate inflorescence of 100+ threadlike arching rays with terminal greenish-brown flower spikelets. This sedge is grown as an annual in rich, consistently moist soils or in standing water or in large containers. Potted plants may be overwintered indoors. Height: 2 to 3 feet and Spread: 2 to 3 feet |
Dichondra argentea 'Silver Falls' 2008 |
Euphorbia hypericifolia 'Inneuphe'
'Diamond Frost' 2008 |
Branching silver stems with soft, rounded, fan-shaped, silver leaves spread rapidly on this creeping/trailing foliage plant. In a single season, stems will cascade from a hanging basket to 3-6 feet or will creep along the ground rooting at the nodes to 3-4 feet. It may be purchased in spring as a bedding plant or grown from seed. Tiny greenish-yellow spring flowers are not showy. It is the dense, metallic foliage that impresses. Height: 0 to 0.25 feet and Spread: 3 to 4 feet |
This vigorous spurge produces a profuse non-stop bloom of tiny white flowers from spring to frost on plants growing 12-18 inches tall on generally upright stems with gray-green leaves. Plants require sharply drained soil that is allowed to dry between waterings. This annual is an abundant bloomer for border fronts, hanging baskets or containers. Containers may be overwintered indoors. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet and Spread: 0.75 to 1 foot |
Evolvulus glomeratus 'Hawaiian Blue Eyes'
Blue Daze 2003 |
Gomphrena globosa 'Buddy'
Globe Amaranth 2001 |
This annual produces 1-inch diameter, sky blue, morning glory-like flowers on trailing stems clad with small, silvery-green leaves. Blooms freely throughout the summer. Foliage and flowers are an attractive addition to hanging baskets, window boxes, containers and beds. Height: 0.75 to 1.5 feet and spread: 2 to 3 feet |
The green foliage accents the deep purple, clover-like flowers on this compact, 9-inch tall selection. Flowers have a papery texture and are highly valued for dried arrangements. Blooms continuously from summer to frost. A superb flowering plant for annual beds, borders or large containers. Height: 1 to 2 feet and spread: 0.5 to 1 foot |
Hemigraphis 'Exotica'
Waffle Plant 2004
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Ipomoea quamoclit
Cypress Vine 2006 |
Waffled, dense, glossy maroon leaves on red stems distinguish this compact foliage annual that typically grows to 9 inches tall and spreads to 20 inches wide. Foliage provides excellent texture and contrast to beds, border and containers. It thrives in consistently moist soils and may also be grown in water gardens. Height: 0.5 to 0.75 feet and spread: 1 to 1.5 feet |
Grown as an annual locally, this twining tropical vine in the morning glory family typically reaches 6-10 feet in length in a single season. Although thin-stemmed and fragile, it provides superb ornamental cover for decks, trellises, fences and other structures around the home. Scarlet tubular flowers that are star-shaped at the mouth bloom freely from early summer to fall. Deeply cut leaves in threadlike segments give the foliage a ferny appearance. Hummingbirds and butterflies love the flowers. Height: 6 to 20 feet and spread: 3 to 6 feet |
Isotoma axillaris
Laurentia 2005 |
Lablab purpureus
Hyacinth Bean Vine 2005 |
Native to frost-free areas of Australia, this plant is grown in St. Louis as an annual. Star-shaped, light blue to purple-blue flowers bloom continuously from summer to fall. Each plant typically forms a compact, upright mound to 6–12 inches tall. Deeply-dissected leaves. Excellent for rock gardens, edging or containers. May self-seed in optimum conditions. Height: 0.5 to 1 foot and spread: 0.75 to 1 foot |
An ornamental twining vine with handsome, purple-tinged, trifoliate leaves. Rapidly grows up to 20 feet and will easily cover a trellis in a single season. Spikes of pea-like bright rose-purple flowers are followed by flat, glossy, ruby-purple seedpods. Given a sunny location, it will bloom continuously throughout the summer. An excellent annual for covering walls, trellises or fences. Height: 10 to 20 feet and spread: 3 to 6 feet |
Lantana 'Landmark' Series
2010
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Lobularia maritima 'Snow Crystals'
Sweet Alyssum 1999
|
Tiny, tubular, 5-lobed flowers in dense hemispherical clusters bloom continuously throughout the season on this floriferous annual that grows in a mound 12-20 inches tall. Landmark Series flowers come in a variety of bright colors including white, yellow, orange, red, pink and purple, with multiple colors appearing in the clusters of some varieties. Rough-wrinkled green leaves are aromatic when bruised. Best performance occurs in full sun locations. Height: 1 to 2 feet and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
This plant is popular because of its ability to be planted in numerous places including the rock garden, between pavers, flag stones or in containers. Plants remain low, spread quickly and develop small, white, sweet smelling flowers in mass. Flowering will continue all summer if the temperature remains moderate. Plant in a sunny or part shade area with well-drained soil. Dormancy may occur in hot weather. ‘Snow Crystals’ is more heat tolerant than other selections. Height: 0.25 to 0.75 feet and spread: 0.5 to 1 foot |
Melampodium divaricatum 'Derby' 2002
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Melinis nerviglumis 'Pink Crystals'
Ruby Grass 2007 |
Formerly included in the genus Chrysanthemum, this compact bushy annual grows 12-18 inches tall, but produces an abundance of 1-inch golden-yellow daisy-like flowers throughout summer to first frost in a continuous and showy floral display. Excellent for window boxes, containers or as a bedding plant. Height: 1 to 2 feet and spread: 0.75 to 1 foot |
Growing in tufts to 24 inches tall, this tropical grass adds a fresh look to sunny borders. Ruby-pink flowers in panicles covered with silky hairs are showy late summer to late fall on stems rising from a clump of erect blue-green leaves. Flowers fade to white over time and the foliage turns reddish-purple in fall. This grass may be grown from seed, and it looks great in containers. Height: 1 to 2 feet and spread 0-1 foot |
Nierembergia 'Mont Blanc' 1999
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Nierembergia 'Purple Robe' 2005
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Small upward-facing cup-shaped white flowers with yellow centers cover this plant throughout the growing season. Flowering may decline in the heat of the summer, but perks up quickly as cooler temperatures return. Grows in a low bushy mound to 4-5 inches tall and spreads to about 12 inches. Excellent for sunny window boxes, hanging baskets, edging, beds, borders and rock gardens. Height: 0.5 to 1 foot and spread: 0.5 to 1 foot |
Cup-shaped violet blue flowers cover this 6–10 inch tall plant with bloom from summer to fall. An excellent annual for bedding, edging, baskets, window boxes or containers. Height: 0.25 to 0.75 feet and spread: 0.5 to 1 foot |
Origanum 'Kent Beauty'
Ornamental Oregano 1999 |
Penta lanceolata'
Egyptian Star Flower 2010 |
Although its leaves are aromatic, this oregano is primarily grown for ornamental, not culinary use. It is a bushy, trailing plant to 10 inches tall with wiry stems densely covered with small, oval, silver-veined leaves. Unique, drooping, pink-bracted, hop-like flowers put on an outstanding floral display from summer into fall. May survive a mild St. Louis winter with protection. Best in window boxes, containers, rock gardens, borders or as an edging. Good dried flower. Height: 0.5 to 0.75 feet and spread: 0.7 to 1 foot |
Winter hardy to USDA Zones 10-11 where it is easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates part shade, but best flowering in full sun. Best in organically rich, fertile soils. In St. Louis, grow in the ground as bedding annuals that are replaced in the garden each spring or in pots/containers as frost-tender perennials that are overwintered indoors. May be easily grown from seed started indoors in late winter approximately 8-10 weeks before last frost date. During the growing season, water regularly (allow soils to dry somewhat between waterings) and feed monthly. To overwinter, bring pots/containers inside before first frost to a bright, cool (50s) location and reduce watering. Cuttings may also be taken from favorite plants in late summer for overwintering. Also may be grown as a houseplant in a sunny room with high humidity. Height: 1 to 2 feet and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Rudbeckia hirta 'Indian Summer'
Black-Eyed Susan 1999 |
Ruellia brittoniana 'Purple Showers'
Mexican Petunia 2009 |
A large-flowered cultivar of one of our most beloved midwestern prairie wildflowers. Although technically a biennial or short-lived perennial, it is usually grown as an annual, though it will often reseed. Giant 6-9 inch flowerheads with bright yellow rays and purplish-brown center disks bloom from summer to fall atop stiff upright stems rising 18-24 inches tall. These flowers provide bold, stunning color and contrast to summer borders. They also are outstanding when cut for fresh or dried arrangements. Height: 2 to 3 feet and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Tubular, petunia-like, purple flowers last for only one day, but bloom freely in succession from spring to frost on this clumping tender perennial that is grown in St. Louis as an annual. Butterflies and hummingbirds love the flowers. Plants grow to 3 feet tall on greenish-purple stems clad with sword-shaped green leaves. They thrive in a variety of conditions, ranging from wet pond margins to average garden soils. This is a vigorous, free-blooming selection for beds, borders and large containers. Height: 3 to 4 feet and spread: 2 to 3 feet |
Salvia farinacea'Victoria Blue'
Mealycup Sage 2010 |
Scaevola aemula 'Blue Wonder'
Fan Flower 2002 |
Native to Texas and Mexico, mealycup sage is a shrubby, clump-forming, tender perennial that typically grows 1.5-3’ tall on erect, branching, square stems. It features two-lipped, violet-blue flowers in 4-8” axillary and terminal racemes from summer to fall. Drooping, irregularly-serrate, ovate-lanceolate, gray-green leaves (to 3” long). Common name and specific epithet are in reference to the white powdery felting found on the upper stems and calyx (“mealy” means covered with powdery meal, “cup” is in reference to the calyx shape and “farinacea” comes from the Latin word for flour or meal). Cultivars are available in various shades of blue, purple, lavender, white and bicolor. Height: 1 to 2 feet and spread: 0.75 to 1.5 feet |
Thrives in hot, humid climates where it produces a non-stop bloom of violet fan-shaped flowers on trailing stems throughout summer to first frost. The profusion of the bloom coupled with the unique shape of the cool blue flowers makes this an exciting selection for hanging baskets and window boxes. ‘New Wonder’ is a closely related new selection with similar characteristics. Height: 0.75 to 1.5 feet and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Strobilanthes dyerianus
Persian Shield 2003 |
Tradescantia pallida 'Purpurea'
Purple Heart 2007 |
Bold, iridescent purple leaves with prominent dark green veining develop a silvery sheen with age on this upright, shrubby foliage annual that grows 2–4 feet tall. Best foliage colors are developed in locations with part afternoon shade, but plants tolerate close to full shade. Foliage contrasts exceedingly well with green-leaved plants in beds and borders. Height: 1 to 3 feet and spread: 1 to 3 feet |
After serving for a number of years as an attractive houseplant, this spiderwort relative is now experiencing increased usage in outdoor applications as an annual ground cover or container plant. It typically grows to 8 inches tall with a trailing habit, featuring rich violet-purple stems and leaves. Three-petaled pink flowers bloom in small clusters mid-summer. Height: 0.5 to 0.75 feet and spread: 1 to 1.5 feet |
Verbena 'Imagination' 2004 |
Xanthosoma 'Lime Zinger'
Elephant Ears 2006 |
Intense violet-blue flowers of this seed-grown verbena bloom profusely in clusters throughout the growing season on spreading/trailing stems clad with feathery, deeply-cut foliage. It has good heat and drought tolerance and makes an excellent addition to beds, borders, rock gardens, baskets and containers. Also quite effective as an edging plant along paths and sidewalks. Height: 0.75 to 1 foot and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Huge 18-inch lime green leaves reminiscent of elephant ears adorn this tropical foliage plant that grows from a tuberous rhizome to 3-4 feet tall. Plants are grown for their interesting foliage and not their flowers which are produced infrequently. Leaves may scorch in full sun or turn a flat medium green in too much shade. Rhizomes are planted in the ground or in containers in spring after last frost date and dug up in fall before first frost for overwintering indoors in a cool, dry place. Height: 2 to 4 feet and spread: 1.5 to 3 feet |
Zinnia angustifolia 'Classic' Mexican Zinnia 1999 |
This small flowered zinnia features single, daisy-like blooms on bushy, spreading, narrow-leaved, 8-12 inch tall plants. They flower non-stop until frost and are ideal selections for hot and humid summer climates. Exceptional disease resistance. Flower color ranges from white to yellow, orange and gold. Excellent for bedding, edging and containers. Height: 0.75 to 1 foot and spread: 0.75 to 1 foot |
Edible Ornamentals |
Beta vulgaris 'Bull's Blood' Beet
2010 |
Brassica oleracea 'Redbor'
Edible Ornamental Kale 2007 |
Bull's Blood' is an heirloom beet that is primarily grown today for its dark purplish-red leaves that make excellent additions to salads. Its tasty beetroots (hereinafter beets) can also be enjoyed. Regardless of culinary value, 'Bull's Blood' is also often grown today in beds, borders and containers solely for the ornamental effects of its excellent foliage. It typically forms a dense rosette of metallic, dark purplish-red leaves that grow in a clump to 18" tall (sometimes more). Foliage provides excellent contrast with other garden plants. Young, tender leaves (remove outer leaves first when picking) make excellent and colorful additions to salads and have many other culinary uses including use as a spinach substitute. Beets may be used in a variety of recipes that extend well beyond the classic soup (borscht). Beets are best dug and harvested when 2-3" in diameter. When cut in cross section, each beet shows attractive white zoning rings. Non-showy, greenish flowers (sometimes tinged red) appear in dense spikes. In Sweden, red food coloring may be legally produced only from this cultivar. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet and spread: 0.75 to 1 foot |
This kale is primarily grown in the cool weather of spring or fall as an ornamental foliage plant. Upright red leaves with curled and frilled edges add intense color and interest to gardens. As fall temperatures drop, the leaf color darkens and intensifies. Plants may be grown from seed. Best performance occurs in rich moist loams in full sun. Height: 1 to 3 feet and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Brassica oleracea ''Ruby Perfection'
Edible Ornamental Cabbage 2009 |
Capsicum annuum 'Black Pearl'
Ornamental Pepper |
This cool weather cabbage not only produces 3-4 pound heads of edible red cabbage in 80 days but also doubles as a colorful garden ornamental. It may be grown in the cool temperatures of spring or fall, but not in the heat of the summer. Harvest the cabbages for use in salads, slaws or as cooked vegetables, or simply enjoy their showy color in the garden as the large, globular, reddish-purple heads mature in the cup of blue-tinged outer leaves. |
Attractive pearl-like black fruits appear on this ornamental pepper in summer, but the real show begins when those fruits mature to cherry red in sharp contrast with the plant’s superb, season-long, glossy black foliage. Plants typically grow in pyramidal shaped mounds to 18 inches tall and exhibit good tolerance for high heat and humidity. This is an excellent selection for beds, borders or containers. It may be grown from seed. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet and spread: 0.75 to 1 foot |
Foeniculum vulgare 'Purpureum'
Bronze Fennel 2010 |
Foeniculum vulgare (common fennel) is an upright, branching perennial that is typically grown in vegetable and herb gardens for its anise-flavored foliage and seeds, both of which are commonly harvested for use in cooking. 'Purpureum' is an ornamental cultivar that is noted for its attractive purple-bronze foliage. It typically grows in an upright mound to 3-5’ (less frequently to 6’) tall with a spread of 2-3'. Feathery, compound, aromatic, purple-bronze leaves with needle-like segments are attractive in the garden. Tiny yellow flowers in large, flattened, compound umbels bloom in mid- to late summer. Flowers are followed by aromatic fennel seeds. Flowers are very attractive to bees, butterflies and birds. Fennel is a larval plant for certain swallowtail butterflies. Height: 3 to 5 feet and spread: 2 to 3 feet |
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2009 Perennials |
Actaea matsumurae 'White Pearl'
Bugbane 1999
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Amsonia hubrichtii
Bluestar 2005 |
Although the bane of bugs, this selection is a knockout in shaded areas of borders or shade gardens, blooming in October often just before the first frost. These are large, clump-forming plants that produce extremely attractive bottlebrush-like spikes of fragrant, pure white flowers on sturdy 3-4 foot tall stems. Compound fern-like foliage adds texture and color throughout the growing season. Hieght 3-4 Feet and spread: 2-3 Feet |
Star-shaped, powdery blue flowers bloom in clusters in spring atop generally upright stems densely clothed with feathery, soft-textured, almost thread-like leaves. The unique foliage remains bright green throughout summer, but changes to a stunning gold in fall. Foliage clumps grow to 3 feet tall, with stems cascading as the season progresses. Mass or group for best foliage display. Easily grown in borders, open woodland areas and native style gardens. Height: 2-3 Feet and spread: 2-3 Feet |
Amsonia tabernaemontana
Blue Star 2001 |
Anemone x hybrida 'Honorine Jobert'
Japanese Anemone 1999 |
This Missouri native features pyramidal clusters of star-like soft blue flowers in late spring atop erect leafy stems growing 2-3 feet tall. Narrow, willow-shaped leaves turn a clear yellow in fall. Though it does well in the border or shade garden, it is perhaps most impressive when massed and naturalized in informal settings such as woodland areas or native plant gardens. Height: 2-3 Feet and spread: 2-3 Feet |
Although discovered in 1858 in Verdun, France, this fall-blooming anemone remains an outstanding late-blooming selection. Ideal for naturalizing in moist soils in partially shaded borders, cottage gardens or open woodland areas. Typically grows 3-4 feet tall and features 2-3 inch diameter flowers with white sepals and contrasting yellow centers. Blooms late summer to frost atop wiry-but-graceful stems rising above an attractive mound of trifoliate dark green leaves. Height: 3-4 Feet and spread:1-2 Feet |
Astilbe chinensis var. pumila
Chinese Astilbe 2003 |
Athyrium 'Ghost'
Lady Fern 2009 |
This dwarf Chinese astilbe spreads by rhizomes to form an attractive 6-inch tall ground cover of compound, fern-like, dark green leaves. Tiny lilac-pink flowers densely packed into upright, plume-like, branched flower stalks rise above the foliage to 1 foot tall in early summer. Foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season as long as soils are kept consistently moist. Mass or group this versatile perennial in shaded areas of rock gardens, borders, shade gardens, woodland areas or along pond/stream banks. Also effective as an edging plant. Height: 1 Foot and spread 1 foot |
‘Ghost’ is a deciduous hybrid fern (Athyrium niponicum var. pictum and Athyrium filix-femina) that is noted for its upright silvery foliage. Silvery foliage is acquired from its Japanese painted fern parent and upright habit from its lady fern parent. It typically grows to 30” tall. It features a slowly spreading clump of fronds that are a soft grayish-green with an overlay of silvery hues accented by contrasting dark maroon midribs. Silvering is best in the spring, with fronds becoming more grayish-green as hot temperatures arrive. Plant in part to full shade. Height: 2 to 2.5 feet and spread: 1.5 to 2 feet |
Baptisia australis
Blue False indigo 2004 |
Baptisia sphaerocarpa
Yellow Wild Indigo 2004 |
This Missouri Native has erect stalks of blue, lupine-like flowers cover this native perennial in spring. Flowers give way to inflated charcoal black seed capsules. Once used as toy rattles, today they are valued in dried flower arrangements. Plants become somewhat shrubby after bloom, displaying attractive, clover-like blue-green leaves. Early Americans used the plant as a substitute for true indigo in making blue dyes. Grow as a specimen or in groups in sunny borders, or naturalize in cottage gardens, prairie areas, meadows or native plant gardens. Height: 3 to 4 feet and spread: 3 to 4 feet |
This Missouri Native has striking lupine-like bright yellow flowers bloom in spring on yellow-green flowering stems that rise above a foliage mound of clover-like, blue-green leaves. Flowers give way to inflated spherical seed pods that are ornamentally attractive on the plant and in dried arrangements. Plants grow 2-3 feet tall, tolerate poor soils and make excellent additions to borders, cottage gardens, meadows and naturalized areas. Showy flowers and attracts butterflies. Grow in full sun to part shade. Height: 2 to 3 feet and spread: 2 to 3 feet |
Begonia grandis
Hardy Begonia 2010 |
Boltonia asteroides var. latisquama 'Snowbank'
False Aster 1999
|
Begonia grandis, commonly called hardy begonia, is the only species of Begonia that is winter hardy to the St. Louis area. It is a monoecious, tuberous-rooted, clump-forming perennial that typically forms a bushy mound of foliage to 2’ tall on branching stems. Large, obliquely ovate leaves (to 4” long) with cordate bases are medium to olive green above and reddish green with red veining beneath. Male and female pale pink flowers (to 1” across) bloom in pendent clusters (dichotomous cymes) from July to early fall. Genus name honors Michael Begon (1638-1710), amateur botanist and French Canadian Governor. Height: 1.5 to 2 feet and spread: 1.5 to 2 feet |
This plant produces 1-inch white daisy-like flowers with yellow centers on long, upright stems in fall that are very attractive to butterflies. Snowbank stays erect in full sun growing to 4 feet without staking and fits in well in an informal garden with other fall-blooming plants. Plant in well-drained soil. Can withstand drought. Height: 3 to 4 feet and spread: 3 to 4 feet |
Brunnera macrophylla
Siberian bugloss 1999 |
Calamagrostis x acutiflora
'Karl Foerster 2002 |
Best grown in moist, partly shaded areas of shade or woodland gardens where it can be naturalized to form a thick 12-inch tall ground cover. Slowly spreading basal clumps of large, heart-shaped, blackish-green leaves remain attractive throughout the growing season. Forget-me-not-like azure blue flowers appear above the foliage in spring in airy racemes rising to 18 inches tall. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet and spread: 1.5 to 2.5 feet |
This ornamental grass brings vertical accent to the landscape. Rich green leaves typically grow in a narrow clump to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, but foliage is topped in early summer with upright, feathery flower plumes which bring total clump height to 6 feet. Plumes are tinged with purple as the flowers open, turn golden beige as the seeds mature and eventually fade to light tan in fall and winter. Thrives in wet soils. Use as a specimen or group together. Height: 3 to 5 feet and spread: 1.5 to 2.5 feet |
Callirhoe involucrata
Purple Poppy Mallow 2003 |
Carex 'Ice Dance'
Japanese Sedge Grass 2008
|
This low-growing, Missouri native perennial features cup-shaped, poppy-like, bright magenta flowers and palmately lobed, dark green leaves on stems that scramble along the ground to 3 feet wide. Flowers bloom primarily from late spring to mid-summer, with some continued bloom into fall. An excellent, airy, flowering ground cover for borders, rock gardens, cottage gardens, naturalized areas or meadows. May need protection from rabbits. Height: 0.5 to 1 foot and sprad: 0.5 to 3 feet |
The stiff, linear, grass-like leaves of this dense, spreading, ornamental sedge are medium green variegated with clear white margins. Plants thrive in moist, shaded areas, typically growing to 12 inches tall. Mass plantings will spread over time by rhizomes to form an attractive ground cover. This is an excellent selection for shaded borders, shade gardens, woodland gardens, low spots and along ponds/streams. Good for naturalizing in a partly shady location. Height: 0.75 to 1 foot and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Ceratostigma Plumbaginoides
Hardy Plumbago 2007 |
Dianthus 'Feuerhexe' Firewitch
Cheddar Pink 2007
|
Emerging in late spring, this rhizomatous, mat-forming ground cover grows to 6-10 inches tall and is particularly noted for its late season attributes. Five-petaled, woodland phlox-like, blue flowers bloom in clusters from mid-summer to frost on stems with medium green leaves that turn a striking bronze-red in fall. Plants overwinter best if the old foliage is left uncut until spring. This is an excellent ground cover for sunny areas with some afternoon shade such as slopes, under trees, in front of shrubs, in rock gardens and for interplanting with spring bulbs. Height: 0.75 to 1 foot and spread: 1 to 1.5 feet |
From a mound of grassy, silvery blue leaves, this mat-forming dianthus produces clove-scented, bright magenta-pink flowers from spring to early summer atop wiry stems rising to 6-8 inches tall. Best performance occurs in slightly alkaline, sharply-drained soils in full sun. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional bloom and gently shear foliage after flowering to improve appearance. Grow in rock gardens, beds, border fronts or stone wall plantings. Effective massed as a ground cover where the foliage can be enjoyed long after flowering. Height: 0.25 to 0.5 feet and spread: 0.5 to 1 foot |
Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum'
Bishops Hat 1999
|
Geranium 'Gerwat' Rozanne
Cranesbill 2006 |
This hybrid epimedium will spread over time to form an attractive ground cover for dry shaded areas in the landscape. It typically grows to 8-12 inches tall. Short-spurred, columbine-like, two-tone yellow flowers bloom in spring. Compound leaves with heart-shaped leaflets on wiry stems form attractive foliage mounds throughout the growing season. New leaves emerge in spring with attractive red tinting. Height: 0.75 to 1 foot and spread: 0.75 to 1.5 feet |
Large violet blue flowers with small white centers and purple-violet veins contrast well with the deeply-cut green leaves. A vigorous geranium that grows in a mound to 20 inches tall. Exceptional heat tolerance results in almost non-stop flowering from mid-May until frost with minimal burn-out in the heat of the summer. This easy-to-grow variety performs best with regular moisture, part afternoon shade, and well-drained soil. It is an excellent choice for beds, borders, cottage gardens, patio planters or hanging baskets. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Helianthus salicifolius
Willow Leaved Sunflower 1999 |
Heliopsis helianthoides var. scabra
'Sommersonne' Summer Sun™ Oxeye |
The late season floral display of bright yellow sunflowers with brown centers makes this Missouri Native one of the most spectacular fall blooming plants. The stems will grow to over 10 feet in part sun, but only half this height in full sun. They respond well to a variety of moisture and soil conditions. Height: 5 to 8 feet and spread: 1 to 3 feet |
A compact, clump-forming, sunflower-like perennial that typically grows 2-4 feet tall. Features 2-3 inch diameter single to double daisy-like flowers with yellow rays and orange-yellow center disks on stiff stems. Profuse and lengthy mid-to late-summer bloom will brighten up any border. Mass in borders or cutting gardens. Height: 2 to 3 feet and spread: 1.5 to 2 feet |
Helleborus orientalis
Lenten Rose 1999
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Hemerocallis 'Happy Returns'
Reblooming Day Lily 2010 |
A winter-flowering shade plant that possesses the unique ability to bloom in sub-freezing temperatures, often when snow is on the ground. Grows to 18 inches tall and features cup-shaped, 2 inch diameter, rose-like flowers ranging in color from white to rose-purple with center crowns of contrasting bushy yellow stamens. Blooms in February for 6-8 weeks. Palmate dark green leaves are evergreen. When massed, plants form an attractive ground cover. Locate near a kitchen window, patio or sidewalk for a therapeutic pick-me-up on dreary late winter days. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet and spread: 1 to 1.5 feet |
Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Daylilies perform well in a wide range of well-drained soils, but prefer a deep, fertile loam. Deadhead spent flowers daily for neatness and remove scapes when flowers have completed bloom. Tolerant of summer heat and humidity, but appreciate deep watering in dry spells to keep foliage attractive. Daylilies should be divided to maintain vigor when the clumps become overcrowded. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet and spread: 1 to 1.5 feet |
Heuchera 'Chocolate Ruffles' Coral Bells 1999
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Hosta 'Halcyon' 1999
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Known for its purple-brown young foliage that adds contrast to the perennial border, this plant does well in part shade and tolerates more full sun conditions than other coral bells. Mounding to 12 inches, the basal leaves persist through fall and early spring. Delicate flower spikes are a plus. Truly a low maintenance perennial. Height: 1 to 2 feet and spread: 1 to 1.5 feet |
Amongst all the hostas, this selection develops the most beautiful oval-shaped, blue leaves. Blue-lilac flowers are produced over the 20-inch mounding clump of foliage in mid-summer. Use in the shaded front border where moisture is good. Height: 1.5 to 2 feet and spread: 2.5 to 3 feet |
Hosta 'June' 2003 |
Hyacinthoides hispanica
Spanish bluebell 2005 |
| Large variegated leaves with gold centers and blue-green margins form a dense foliage mound that is attractive throughout the growing season. Bell-shaped, pale lavender flowers appear above the foliage atop 20-inch scapes in summer. The striking foliage adds bright color and contrast to shade and woodland gardens. Height: 0.75 to 1 foot and spread: 2 to 2.5 feet |
Each bulb produces a clump of strap-shaped leaves from which rise rigid flowering stems bearing 12 or more pendant, bell-shaped, blue to lavender flowers. This is a terrific mid- to late-spring bloomer for borders or for naturalizing under trees or in open woodland areas. Plants form large spreading clumps through offsets and self seeding. Plants go dormant in summer. Height: 0.75 to 1.5 feet and spread: 0.75 to 1 foot |
Iris sibirica 'Caesar's Brother'
Siberian Iris 1999 |
Juncus effusus
Rush or Sedge 2009
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Violet blue flowers appear in May on upright slender stems rising to 3 feet tall above a clump of arching, narrow, grass-like leaves. Mass plants for a spectacular wave of bloom. Graceful foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season. Clumps grow together to snuff out most weeds. A moisture-loving plant that thrives in moist to boggy garden areas. Siberian iris is much less susceptible to iris borer and bacterial soft rot than bearded iris. Height: 3 to 4 feet and spread: 2.5 to 3 feet |
This Missouri Native grass-like rush provides outstanding form, texture and vertical accent to sunny, moist to wet areas of the landscape including water gardens, pond margins, boggy areas, wet pebbly/rocky areas or in several inches of standing water. Basal clumps of cylindrical, upright, soft-to-the-touch, green stems rise to 2-4 feet tall and spreads 2-4 feet. |
Leucanthemum x superbum 'Becky'
Shasta Daisy 2010 |
Lobelia cardinalis – Cardinal Flower 2003 |
This Shasta daisy cultivar is larger than most other Shasta cultivars, growing 3-4' tall on rigid stems which do not require staking. Features 3-4" diameter flower heads with the classic white rays and yellow center disks and coarsely-toothed, lance-shaped, medium green leaves. Stems do not require staking. Long bloom period of July through September. Excellent and long-lasting fresh cut flower. Height: 3 to 4 feet and spread: 2 to 3 feet |
This Missouri native is noted for its intense red flowers, late summer bloom and ability to thrive in moist, shady locations. Densely packed two-lipped cardinal red flowers bloom in erect flowering spikes typically growing 2-4 feet tall from July to September. A must for open shady border areas, wildflower gardens, shade/woodland gardens or stream/pond margins. Flowers are very attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. Height: 2 to 4 feet and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Mazus reptans 1999
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Miscanthus sinensis 'Adagio 1999'
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An outstanding ground cover to only 2 inches tall that spreads by creeping stems. An excellent selection for rock gardens, border fronts or between stepping stones. Tolerates limited foot traffic and infrequent mowing. Tiny purplish-blue or white tubular flowers cover the foliage mat in late spring to early summer. Height: to 0.25 feet and spread: 0.5 to 1 foot |
This compact eulalia grass cultivar forms a dense rounded clump to 3-4 foot tall and as wide. Its pink-tinged, tassel-like flower plumes gracefully waft above the narrow silver-green foliage in late summer, gradually turning creamy white as the seeds mature. Foliage turns yellowish in fall. Excellent accent for sunny areas of the landscape. Superb winter interest. Versatile ornamental grass for smaller areas. Dwarf size facilitates use as a tall ground cover. Accent, specimen, grouping or mass. Borders, meadows, wild gardens, cottage gardens, naturalized areas or pond/water garden peripheries. Height: 2 to 3 feet and spread: 2 to 3 feet |
Narcissus 'Tahiti'
Double Daffodil 2007 |
Ophiopogon planiscapus 'Nigrescens'
Black Mondo Grass 1999 |
Each fragrant, 4-inch, double flower of this Division IV daffodil features showy yellow petals and frilly, bright orange-red cup segments. Flowers bloom in April atop leafless stems rising 12-14 inches tall amid a clump of narrow, strap-shaped, green leaves. After bloom, foliage should not be cut back until it yellows. Bulbs are best planted in quantity, from small groupings of at least six bulbs to large sweeping drifts. Deer, rabbit, and squirrel resistant. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet and spread: 0.75 to 1 foot |
Leaves of this plant are nearly black and therefore contrast well with light-colored foliage plants like ferns and hostas. Spikes of pinkish flowers are produced in mid to late summer rising just above the 6-inch tall foliage. A good shade plant that develops slowly as a ground cover. May need a protected site. Height: 0.75 to 1 foot and spread: 0.75 to 1 foot |
Perovskia atriplicifolia
Russian Sage 1999
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Polygonatum odoratum var. pluriflorum 'Variegatum'
Variegated Solomon's Seal 2008 |
This woody-based perennial of the mint family features handsome, fern-like, silvery-green foliage topped by clouds of tiny blue flowers. Blooms mid-summer to fall. Brings cool beauty, grace and airiness to full sun areas of the garden. Grows to 4 feet tall and contrasts well with the yellows, pinks and greens of summer borders. The foliage is aromatic when bruised and provides continuing color and interest in winter. Height: 3 to 5 feet and spread: 2 to 4 feet
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Striking, parallel-veined, soft green leaves variegated with white tips and margins highlight this rhizomatous, shade-loving perennial that grows 2-3 feet tall. Leaves turn an attractive yellow in fall. Equally ornamental but more hidden are the small, fragrant, bell-shaped, white flowers that dangle in pairs underneath arching stems in spring. Blue-black berries ripen in fall. Add this to shaded areas of borders, woodland gardens, wild gardens or naturalized areas. Height: 2 to 3 feet and spread: 0.75 to |
Polystichum acrostichoides Christmas Fern 2005
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Sedum rupestre 'Angelina' 2010 |
The fronds are green at Christmas and each individual leaflet suggests the shape of a Christmas stocking. This Missouri native evergreen fern forms a distinctive fountain-like clump of leathery, lance-shaped fronds. Clumps typically grow to 2 feet tall and slowly spread by rhizomes to provide excellent evergreen color for shaded garden areas. Height: 1 to 2 feet and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Sedum repestre (synonymous with S. reflexum) is a low-growing, mat-forming, evergreen stonecrop that grows to only 4” tall but quickly spreads to 24” wide on stems clad with spiky gray-green leaves. ‘Angelina’ is a yellow leaved cultivar featuring spiky yellow leaves (to 3/4” long) that often sport ginger brown tips. The leaves of this cultivar are the main ornamental interest. In cold winter climates, the leaves usually turn reddish-orange in autumn. Star-shaped yellow flowers (1/2” wide) appear in terminal cymes in summer (June – August), but are not overly showy because of the lack of contrast with the yellow leaves. Sedums are commonly called stonecrops in reference to the fact that many of the sedum species plants are typically found in the wild growing on rocky or stony ledges. Rupestre means “rock loving” in reference to the mountainous native habit of plants of this species. U.S.Plant Patent Applied For (PPAF). Height: 0.25 to 0.5 feet and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Solidago sphacelata 'Golden Fleece'
Goldenrod 2001
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Sporobolus heterolepis
Prairie Dropseed 2005 |
| This compact spreading goldenrod only grows to 18 inches tall. Heart-shaped leaves often in whorls form an attractive mat when plants are not in bloom. Narrow cylindrical plumes of tiny bright yellow flowers arc in all directions in a spectacular, fountain-like, late summer to fall bloom. Flowers add considerable color and contrast to the sunny fall border, and no, this plant does not cause hay fever. Height: 1 to 1.5 feet and spread: 1 to 1.5 feet |
This clump-forming, Missouri native, prairie grass features fine-textured, hair-like, medium green leaves that grow in arching foliage mounds to 15 inches tall. Foliage turns copper-gold in fall, gradually fading to light beige by winter. Late summer flowers bloom in airy panicles above the foliage. Flowers are noted for their coriander-like fragrance. This grass grows exceedingly well in prairie areas and drops its ripe seed directly to the ground. Spectacular accent or ground cover for the landscape. Height: 2 to 3 feet and spread: 2 to 3 feet |
Stachys byzantina 'Big Ears'
Lambs Ear 1999 |
Tricyrtis formosana
Toad Lily 2004 |
The velvety, silver-green leaves of this superb ground cover look and feel like a lamb’s ears. Leaves appear in spreading rosettes that expand by creeping stems to form a dense 8-inch tall carpet of foliage which chokes out most weeds. Rarely flowers so doesn't require deadheading. Needs a well-drained soil. This ground cover or edger brings unique texture, color and contrast to sunny areas in the landscape. Height: 0.5 to 1 foot and spread: 1 to 2 feet |
Toad lily is best noted for its unique flowers and its ability to bloom well in shade late summer to early fall. Small, delicate white lily-like flowers with heavy reddish-purple spotting and yellowish throats bloom in branched clusters atop generally erect 2–3 foot tall stems clad with broadly lance-shaped medium green leaves. Flowers must be observed close up to appreciate their true beauty. Plants are superb additions to shaded borders, woodland or shade gardens where they will slowly naturalize by rhizomes to form colonies. Height: 2 to 3 feet and Spread: 1.5 to 2 feet |
Verbena bonariensis
Tall Verbena 1999 |
This plant displays a unique plant form, producing deep lilac clusters of flowers on stiff, slender stems, three to four feet tall. Height can be controlled by pinching seedlings back. Good see-through plant. Flowers from mid-summer through fall. Long-lasting cut flower. Also useful for containers or bedding. May self-seed and naturalize, but easy to control with hand weeding. Height: 2 to 4 feet and spread: 1.5 to 3 feet |
For information about the Plants of Merit Shrubs and Trees that we carry visit the
Trees and Shrubs List. Trees and Shrubs witll have with the Plants of Merit logo. |
The following organizations form the Plants of Merit Partnership.
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