What a great way to grow witchhazel! Training it to a trellis on the North side of a building, it smells heavenly in the winter and the wide, elegant leaves make an attractive screen in the summer. I love the shape that witchhazel grows naturally, reaching out and stretching as if to hold hands with the neighboring plants. It can make a terrific horizontal display. … Continue reading Witchhazel Espalier
The Northwest Flower and Garden Show had lots of blooming, fragrant flowers in the display gardens. One of these was the bronze medal winning WSNLA garden designed by Gregory Smaus of Native Root Designs. Here are some words from the creator: “Our innovative design utilizes a culturally sensitive plant palette, permeable paving, recycled glass, and a living wall. It embraces the dream of spring from … Continue reading WSNLA Display Garden
I’ve never seen a Mahonia this big, only at the Arboretum. With dark green leaves and yellow flowers that glow like a neon sign, this is a great winter shrub. It grows best in part shade and can reach 15 feet. Startling February color! Continue reading Another Winter Bloomer
Witchhazel is blooming! Which way does it grow? Up and out, reaching skyward. I saw a plant 20 feet high recently and it was amazing. I did a double switch. Or was it a twitch? It had a big solid trunk and branches that soared over my head. The flowers that slowly uncurl in the cold winter air release a fragrance that will bewitch. This … Continue reading Witchhazel
I like a party with a theme and the theme this year is shady. Made in the Shade is the title of the 2012 list from Great Plant Picks. Produced by the Elisabeth C. Miller Botanical Garden, a new set of hardy and reliable plants are recommended each year for the maritime Pacific Northwest. Currently there are over 800 plants on this exceptional list. … Continue reading Great Plant Picks 2012
Rainyleaf 