Be careful! Legend tells us that this herb, mixed into salad, helped married couples conceive! With deeply incised, yellow-green foliage, ‘Isla Gold’ is a blithe light in the garden border, holding its bright color and form throughout the summer. Shear off yellow flower clusters to prolong the gilded display. Its carefree, open demeanor provides a delicately feathered backdrop for the dramatically dark leaves of Heuchera ‘Obsidian’.

Blooms July – August.

Size: 2-1/2' – 3' 0" high x 3' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Held in playful repose—some straight, some slightly bent—the long, animal-like floral tails host tightly set jade-green buds. Upon opening, copious Veronica-style spikes entice us with lavish purple-red shades. Touting a more compact habit, improved branching and aromatic sage-green textured foliage, this new and bushy, clump-forming perennial forges a welcome sight in any border, or it can be pruned for an attractive, out-of the-ordinary hedge.

Blooms August–October.

Size: 16" – 20" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

Held in playful repose—some straight, some slightly bent—the long, animal-like floral tails host tightly set jade green buds. Upon opening, copious Veronica-style spikes entice us with lavish deep fuchsia-purple shades.

Native to the Caucasus Mountains and Iran, this bushy, clump-forming perennial, with its aromatic sage-green textured foliage, forges a welcome sight in any border, or it can be pruned for an attractive, out-of the-ordinary hedge.

Blooms July–October.

Size: 18" – 2' 0" high x 20" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

Showing amazing vigor, this exceptional Thalictrum was twice as large as the other delavayi seedlings when esteemed Dutch plantsman, Coen Jansen initially spotted it growing in a propagation tray. Glaucous, Columbine-like bluish green foliage drapes sleek, sky-high dark stalks that energetically thrust upward and support the large, effervescent soft-hued puffs--plenteous lilac-pink flowers with pronounced creamy yellow stamens on finely branched stems. A regal stand-alone for any garden, Ankums hearty, amber-colored spent stems sustain an exquisite presence long after the lovely blooms and leaves have faded.

Blooms July–August

Size: 6-1/2' high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

This long-legged cultivar sprang into being when Dutch landscape designer Dirk de Winter crossed Thalictrum rochebrunianum and Thalictrum flavum ssp. glaucum. Dressed with fetching glaucous blue-green leaves, firm upright deep purple stalks hurl themselves towards the heavens, while cushioning a frothy open array of petite rosy-purple buds and alabaster-colored blooms that keep the honeybees happy plus make sprightly additions to cut arrangements. Grandiose, prismatic and easygoing, ‘Anne’s compelling vertical carriage can reside in the back of the border behind cohorts such as Eupatorium ‘Gateway’ and Phlomis samia. 

Blooms June–July

Size: 6-1/2' – 8' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

The tallest of the species and one of the showiest Meadow-Rues, this aptly named Thalictrum amasses large fluffy heads defined by pronounced rich rosy violet stamens and dark purple double florets. The colorful individual flowers unfurl like tiny fireworks, imparting a gracious glamour atop branched stems and small teal green obovate leaflets. An honored AGM recipient, 'Thundercloud' is best planted en masse against a dark backdrop.

Blooms July–August.

Size: 3' 0" – 4' 0" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Distinctive for its gauzy white flowers with pale yellow stamens gracing sizable branched sprays, this classy clump-forming Thalictrum is grounded by finely divided, Columbine-style fresh green foliage. ‘Album’s delicate upright silhouette provides peerless texture-rich accents that effectively contrast bold-leafed plants such as Hydrangea ‘All Summer Beauty’ in the mixed border.

Blooms July–August

Size: 3-1/2' high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

A buoyant flourish of double pale purple blooms with yellow eyes adorn this Thalictrum’s tall-flowering stems. We often grow ‘Hewitt’s Double’ among other plants, such as Anemone ‘Andrea Atkinson’, for support, especially in areas exposed to summer wind and rain.

Blooms August–September

Size: 4' 0" – 6' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Loosely garbed in striking steely-blue foliage, ‘Elin’s tall purple-tinged stems maintain a stately carriage. An arresting hybrid between Thalictrum flavum ssp. glaucum and Thalictrum rochebrunianum, its sturdy upright stalks culminate in open trusses of bicolored pale yellow and lavender flowers. Known to grow up to 12 ft. tall, this lofty Thalictrum paints soft smoky hues in the background and seldom needs staking.

Blooms June–July

Size: 8' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

You will never “rue” planting this winning European native. As it emerges in spring, tender mauve-tinted stems and foliage scramble skyward. By midsummer, gleaming and glaucous trilobed, silvery blue-green foliage adorns brawny upright stems. Erect, gossamer-like panicles of soft yellow burst upward in a frothy show.

Absolutely striking when planted in a drift with Phlomis russeliana and Spodiopogon sibiricus.

Blooms July–August.

Size: 5' 0" – 6' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Endemic to eastern North American thickets, wetlands and streamsides, this statuesque clumping perennial pitches staunch, nearly 7 ft. tall green stems clothed with glaucous, triple compound blue-green leaves. The posh fern-like delicacy belies its tenacious ability to remain upright beneath magical large, open panicles of creamy-white starburst-like stamens, which captivate pollinators, floral designers and plant aficionados alike. Best headlined against a dark backdrop lingering amongst Eupatorium or Aconitum ‘Bicolor’, King of the Meadow’s classy low maintenance habit thwarts deer and bunnies plus appreciates moderately fertile soil in a damp, yet bright locale.

Blooms mid-June–August

Size: 6' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

This new medium-sized Thalictrum proffers a lilac-colored flurry of loosely-arranged froth-like blooms on sleek, upright and branched midnight-purple stems. The sprightly flowers hover above refined pinnate blue-green leaflets that gracefully cloak a tasteful, more compact habit. Beloved by pollinators and especially gardeners who are short on space, ‘Purplelicious’ can be easily nudged into cottage gardens, border edges and cut arrangements, where it affords wispy allure and purple aplenty.

Blooms July–August

Size: 18" – 2' 0" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

A first-class perennial that fashions an ethereal, lavender-hued mist, this stylish Japanese native boasts attractive foliage and a bounteous offering of dainty flowers. Tall stems hold glabrous, oval-shaped blue-green leaves, and each produces wiry branched blooming panicles. Prominent pale yellow stamens and persistent sepals accentuate the display. Most effective in a drift, place wherever a glow of purple would be welcome.

Blooms August–September

Size: 5' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

This long-blooming Japanese denizen premiers large airy pouffes of copious tightknit yellow-centered lavender-blue flowers. Lodged atop thick upstanding stems dressed in wispy, yet robust Columbine-like bluish green leaves, the blossoms entertain dreamy soft hues that extend through autumn if judiciously deadheaded. Favoring cool semishady environs with adequate moisture, it’s ideal for bouquets and as a lanky perennial specimen in mixed borders or less formal venues, while its potential to suppress cancer has been demonstrated in recent medical studies.

Blooms July–September

Size: 6' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Discovered as a garden seedling between Thalictrum elegans and Thalictrum delavayi by celebrated French Heuchera breeder, Thierry Delabroye, this towering floriferous Meadow Rue is indeed splendid. Sky-bound and steadfast, 9 ft. tall, crimson-tinted stalks, clothed with lacy grayish green foliage, have a willowy architectural appeal. Myriad lavender-pink flowers, centered by cream-colored stamens, comprise a massive, yet lithe pastel cloud, which envelopes the entire upper 3 ft. of each impressive plant nearly all summer long.

Blooms late June–September

Size: 5' 0" – 9' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Kudos to renowned French nurseryman Thierry Delabroye for this urbane, white-blooming Meadow Rue. Erect, multibranched hale-and-hearty stalks support pinnate leaves with oblong grayish green leaflets, plus large gossamer-like panicles of small spherical buds unfurling fragrant snowy white blooms. Aptly named, "Splendide Whites" tall growing visage has splendor to spare that can be enjoyed midborder, planted either en masse or positioned as a spectacular illuminated specimen, or cut for a fanciful bouquet.

Blooms late June–September

Size: 3' 0" – 4' 0" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Have you been searching for a smaller-statured Meadow Rue? If so, this rarely offered cultivar fills the bill with its compact, delicate-looking bluish green foliage that maxes out at about 20 inches. Above the well-groomed foundation, a dreamy haze of copious amethyst-hued blooms levitates on upright, sturdy burgundy-tinged stalks. Perfect in cut arrangements, ‘Yulia’ makes a nimble-footed addition to border frontage, cottage gardens and space-thrifty plantings.

Blooms June–July

Size: 2' 0" – 2-1/2' high x 12" – 16" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Bountiful bright pink posies mellow to dusty pink while lounging upon an attractive low-lying carpet of snug extra-thin wiry stems dressed with Tom Thumb-like gray-green leaves. Small on stature but big on blooms and brawn, ‘Bressingham’ can squeeze into crevices, soften stepping stones, adorn scree gardens and drape over troughs. This no-fuss Thyme endures salt spray, light foot traffic and dry conditions once established, plus enthralls bees, butterflies and other garden visitors.

Blooms June–August

Size: 4" high x 8" – 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

This low spreading, evergreen Thyme has a lot to offer: golden variegated foliage, colorful flowers, and a tangy lemon aroma. Brimming with tiny pinkish purple blooms, the 3 to 4 in. long, flowering clusters enhance the gilt-edged, deep green leaves, which are especially bright-hued in the cool of spring. Creeping near Hebe ‘Champagne’, ‘Doone Valley’ makes a captivating, small-space ground cover.

Blooms August–October.

Size: 5" high x 18" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Hailing from Latavin, this topnotch, rarely offered cultivar is the perfect choice for nestling between stepping stones. Resilient, deep green pint-sized leaves cavort close to the ground forming lustrous mats spangled with a slew of miniature, rosy purple blooms.

Blooms June – July.

Size: 3" high x 18" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Dwelling in Turkey’s Amanos Mountains, this distinctive softly colored Thyme houses pale stems and short, stiff needlelike leaves. The low, aromatic grey-green mound is fine textured, semievergreen and well branched, and garnished with clusters of miniature rosy pink flowers, making it a natural for a trough, the rockery or a Thyme-inspired tapestry.

Blooms June – July.

Size: 8" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 7.

Endemic to the mountains of Spain’s Andalusia region, this rarely offered perennial subshrub has merit galore. The tough-as-nails, ultrafine habit hosts compact, slender grayish green foliage with a heady aroma and a show-stopping summer-long floral display. Loved by honey-bees and other pollinators, unique purplish pink flowers are composed of scale-like bracts arranged in rose-colored cones, sprouting an artful array of long tubular blooms. Thymus longiflorus is a comely, low-growing evergreen that detests water-logged sites, endures extreme heat as well as drought and makes a savory seasoning plus embodies antibacterial properties.

Blooms June–September

Size: 8" – 12" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Distinctive Juniper-style gray foliage makes this hard-to-find Thyme unique among other species in the genus. Stubby, needle-shaped aromatic leaves tightly cling to reddish brown stems that lay flat on the ground, bearing bee-friendly mauve-pink blooms in spring. Awash with soft pastel shades, Juniper Thyme can be threaded between pavers and draped over rock work or container edges.

Blooms May–June

Size: 1" – 2" high x 8" – 10" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Small pink flowers ascend a thimble’s length or two above a soft looking, broad mound of fine textured, almost needlelike foliage.

Blooms June – August.

Size: 4" high x 15" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Dressed up with a fresh pink blanket of bloom and a delicate texture, ‘Pink Chintz’ is one of the first Thymes to flower. Obscured by its colorful cover, this vigorous ground hugger’s small grayish green leaves are strongly scented, close-knit and fuzzy. Try tucking Mother of Thyme in the rockery alongside Stachys ‘Silky Fleece’ and Dracocephalum ‘Blue Dragon’ for a detailed association.

Blooms May–July.

Size: 1" – 2" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

An elfin-sized army of rounded bright green leaves and slender, wiry straw-colored stems forges a low-lying springy mass. Whether nestled into nooks or stowed amid steps, the attractive evergreen foliage gets a refreshing lift when petite white flowers form a thick summertime icing.

Blooms July–August

Size: 2" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Woolly, Tom Thumb-like and cozy-looking, the aromatic silver-green leaves form a tight nearly prostate mat tough enough to handle foot traffic. This versatile pink flowering Thyme can creep between steps and patio stones or cushion hard edges in the garden, as well as spice up culinary dishes and impart medicinal properties.

Blooms May – June.

Size: 1" – 2" high x 10" – 12" wide.

Zone 3/4.

Illuminated by gold-splashed green leaves, this bushy aromatic Thyme sculpts low evergreen billows that soften our steps. Droves of lighthearted lavender-pink flowers and neighbors like Saponaria and Silene ‘Compacta’ heighten the composition.

Blooms June–July.

Size: 6" high x 12" wide.

Zone 6/7.

Even though its name doesn’t impart visions of beauty, we promise you’ll be smitten with this showy Asian Thyme. Highly fragrant dark green leaves and wire-thin creeping stems weave a dense verdant mat. Prolific, ample-sized rosy pink flowers festoon foliage that can soften your pavers, flavor your dinner or be utilized medicinally to fight cancer and infections.

Blooms July – August.

Size: 4" high x 12" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Exuding a spicy scent, this dense evergreen shrublet sports pretty whorls of diminutive lavender pink flowers amid grayish green needle-thin leaves. ‘Rose Williams’s natty low mounding habit makes an undemanding water wise addition to pathways, herb gardens and Mediterranean plantings.

Blooms May–June

Size: 12" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

Snugly weaving one of the tightest growing forms in the genus, minute fuzzy green leaves define each textural ground-hugging hummock that celebrates deep lavender pink summertime flowers and cold weather mahogany shades. This choice, easily maintained dwarf thyme brings refined looking ground-level greenery to a trough, stone wall or staircase.

Blooms May–June.

Size: 2" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Teensie-tiny miniature leaves comprise a snug carpet-like hummock that’s small in size, but big on charm. Remarkably rugged, the fuzzy, gray-green overlapping foliage belies its diminutive appearance, enduring some foot traffic and hot dry conditions. Pretty lavender-pink elfin flowers peek out from the fine textured soft-looking clump as it slowly mantles a staircase, the rockery or a Tom Thumb-like container planting.

Blooms July – August.

Size: 1" – 3" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Rosy pink flowers peer above this mat of semi-evergreen, fragrant, rich kelly green foliage. Noted collector Victor Reiter brought this one back to northern California from the Mediterranean. We use it liberally to fill crevices or cascade over walls.

Blooms June–July.

Size: 2" – 6" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

Saluted as both a culinary delight and a winsome garden addition, this pint-sized evergreen shrublet gives you plenty to be passionate about. Rounded shiny dark green leaves shape a compact upright habit that’s garnished with good-sized clusters of look-at-me bright pink flowers. Ideal nestled into the rockery, herb garden or topping a stone wall, ‘Passion Pink’s tidy mien responds well to shearing, requires little care and can accompany Silene ‘Compacta’ or Allium ‘Blue Eddy’.

Blooms June–July

Size: 12" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Tiarellas are one of the finest spring-blooming perennials, and ‘Pink Skyrocket’, a Terra Nova introduction, is one of the best pink-flowering cultivars in the genus. Dissected Maple-like leaves, engraved with dark chocolate central blotches, shape a lush green mound. “Skyrocketing” on tall sturdy stems, large, perfect-for-cutting spires are studded with round rosy buds and frothy star-shaped pink and white flowers. En masse, as an understory or along the border, this easy-to-grow, clump-forming evergreen looks lovely beneath Viburnum, Enkianthus and Sambucus. (pp#13,382)

Blooms March–May

Size: 12" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Searching for a bold toughie to beautify that problem area in your garden? Trachystemon orientalis may be your answer. Whether the spot is sunny or shady, dry or moist, or over rough terrain, this Borage family member will rapidly fill it in with a thick, weed-smothering cover of handsome, coarse-looking dark green leaves—hirsute, immense, many up to a foot long, and heart-shaped—attached to long petioles. Announcing winter’s end, starry, white-throated blue flowers carried on branched hairy pink stems are reminiscent of Dodecatheon blooms and make their appearance before the wavy-edged foliage bursts forth in midspring. Its native haunts include Bulgaria and northern Turkey, and here in our garden it creates a dynamic array of foliar colors and textures when intermingled with Tanacetum ‘Isla Gold’

Blooms March

Size: 18" high x 2' 0" & spreading wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

A jewel of the shadows, waxy lily-like blooms feature pronounced violet anthers plus creamy-white and powder-blue petals dramatically splashed with bluish purple flecks. Compact, gently arching stems clothed in ovate emerald-green leaves forge a stylish vase-shaped base for the rounded maroon buds and exotic-looking late season flowers. Inheriting both hirta and formosana traits, ‘Blue Wonder’ should be ensconced along a path so its amazing detail can be easily relished.

Blooms September–October

Size: 18" – 2' 0" high x 12" – 15" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

An easy-to-keep late season temptress, this formosana and hirta hybrid flaunts orchid-style alabaster-colored flowers, each artfully spangled with saturated purple spots and a gold-tinged center. The eye-catching floral fanfare unfurls from lavish, velvety maroon buds that crown tall lusty stems clad in broad, 8 in. long semiclasping leaves. Sure to pique fall visitors, ‘Dark Beauty’s polished dark greenery can accompany Anemone ‘Wild Swan’.

Blooms September–October

Size: 3' 0" – 4' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Renown for its extralarge and wider open flowers, this exquisite, newly introduced Toad Lily is a formosana hybrid. Fanciful, spidery spaced petals are inscribed by occasional darkened tips and irregular rich deep purple spots, stipples and mottling on a creamy white background. An enticing fall mainstay in the darker corners of your landscape, ‘Empress’s showy terminal blooms are supported by a robust upright gathering of shiny, semiclasping dark green foliage that stays dapper all season. Moist humus-rich abodes ensure a luxe clump.

Blooms August–September

Size: 2-1/4' high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Beaming with prominent, broad yellow margins, ‘Autumn Glow’ promotes one of the most striking variegations amongst the species. Dark purple speckles plus amethyst-colored dapples tattoo the clustered, intricate creamy-hued flowers atop sturdy branched stalks and glossy rich green foliage. A lucent beacon for bright shade, this handsome Tricyrtis quickly produces a robust colony that looks splendid amid companions such as Geranium ‘Blogold’ and Persicaria ‘Golden Arrow’.

Blooms August–September

Size: 2' 0" high x 18" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Smaller in stature than the other Tricyrtis cultivars we offer, the wine-colored upright stems of this garden “warrior” are a striking complement to its light green leaves. A further touch of light is achieved by the irregularly variegated, creamy leaf margins. Orchid-like purple flowers have dark plum speckles, and gold and white highlights at their centers. Skirt it with Epimedium ‘Lilafee’.

Blooms August–September.

Size: 16" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

These purple-spotted, dark dusty blue flowers with white centers evoke images of early night skies sprinkled with stars. The dark green foliage is also spotted, and combines with deep purple buds to give this spectacular Tricyrtis long lasting appeal. Plant with Kirengeshoma and double the intrigue of the flowers and foliage.

Blooms September–October.

Size: 2' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Attired in neon-bright chartreuse foliage, this hirta ‘Variegata’ sport is a shining beacon for any shady spot that needs some oomph. Arching stems feature arresting, purple flecked white flowers that heighten the illuminated composition.

Introduced by Bluebird Nursery, ‘Moonlight’ maintains its refreshing, well-groomed look throughout the season.

Blooms September–October.

Size: 20" high x 18" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

A favored standout among Tricyrtis, this exceptional species sprouts an attractive tightset clump of sturdy erect arching stems garbed with glistening green and purple freckled alternating leaves. Amethyst and blue petal tips embellish white upward facing orchid-style blooms that populate large well-branched terminal sprays. Hailing from Taiwan, where it has been observed growing in nearly full sun, Amethyst Toad Lily’s lovely long blooming flowers can model their ornate features in a brighter garden bed.

Blooms August–September.

Size: 3' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 7.

Long esteemed in Japan for its elegant cut flowers, ‘Sinonome’ presents a pleasing vase-shaped clump of upright stems lined with lustrous, clean-looking dark green foliage. Emerging from buds the color of chocolate, white, upfacing blooms show off richly colored ruby freckles. One of the more heat and drought tolerant Toadlilies, this Tricyrtis could be planted next to Aster divaricatus.

Blooms September–October.

Size: 2' 0" – 3' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Cresting showy 5-branched terminal panicles, the gleaming 1 ½ in. wide ornate flowers are comprised of a subtly gold-dusted center and 3 ivory-colored petals with reddish purple freckles plus 3 darker petals colored in deep violet and mauve. A 2005 Darrell Probst cross between Tricyrtis formosana and Tricyrtis lasiocarpa, ‘Taipei Silk’s elaborate late season floral pageantry is presented above stiff straight stems and lustrous greenery. (pp#18,727)

Blooms September–October

Size: 2-1/2' high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Bushy upright clumps of signature trilobed, medium green leaves give rise to huge silvery buds, which open into bright crimson floral candles. Borne on long stems, the fluffy flowers come in droves, and are choice for inviting pollinators and enhancing bouquets. Create a stylized meadow by planting it with Succisella ‘Frosted Pearls’ and Pennisetum ‘Hameln’.

Blooms June–August

Size: 2' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

A refreshing mix of dazzling white blooms coupled with rich green trifoliate leaves is the keynote of this exciting 2016 Jelitto Perennial Seeds introduction. ‘Frosty Feathers’ earns its namesake as legions of chubby, 2 to 3 in. long cylindrical blooms unfurl in midsummer, casting luminous soft-looking accents.

Blooms June–August

Size: 2' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Hobnobbing in moist sites from San Francisco to southern Oregon, this native is robust and showy. Large subtly fragrant pearl white flowers are perched atop a dark green cushion of dappled, wavy edged spring foliage that rises on tall, often multiple, stems. In early summer, prominent purple berries keep our interest sparked.

Blooms mid-March – late April.

Size: 16" high x 10" – 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

This seldom offered woodland beauty grows wild throughout the southeastern regions of our country in dry oak and pine woodlands. Borne singularly atop an erect stem, each dainty nodding 1 ½ in. bloom features three unique sickle-shaped petals flushed with soft pink to darker rosy hues, punctuated by prominent golden yellow anthers, twisting in an irregular outward fashion. A purple-tinged green stem supports three handsome green whorled leaves, which don lustrous surfaces and upright elliptical outlines sharply tapering to pointed tips

Blooms April–May

Size: 12" – 18" high x 10" – 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

The quintessential native woodland plant, ‘Snowy White’ promises a sparkling display of pure white, three-petaled flowers. Wavy-edged, curved back at the tips and blushing a rosy hue as they wane, the regal blooms garnish attractive green foliage that easily carpets a cool, shady spot.

Blooms March–May.

Size: 12" – 18" high x 10" – 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

The broad foliage of this species is marbled with light green and yellow, echoing the colors of the showy flower. Ours is planted under a Myrica californica with Helleborus x hybridus and Asarum caudatum.

Blooms April–early June.

Size: 12" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Its common name belies the simple elegance of this rarely offered Missouri woodlander. Three evenly spaced broad leaves forge a handsome platform for 2 in. high maroon blooms, which are mottled in shades of green, purple and white. Defined by 3 erect petals, the unique stalkless flowers gracefully embellish a clump-forming base, whose thick underground rhizomes will slowly colonize if left undisturbed.

Blooms April – May.

Size: 6" – 12" high x 6" – 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Reminiscent of Mother-of-Pearl or King Tuts alabaster vessels, the light creamy white color that imbues these large blooms brings a quiet refinement to the garden. Layered chiffon-like petals embellish stylish cup-shaped flowers, while below deeply chiseled, glabrous green foliage grows into an attractive, moisture-loving basal clump. Developed by George Arends over 60 years ago, this exquisite cultorum hybrid can be intermingled with the chartreuse sprays of Alchemilla mollis "Robusta".

Blooms early June–mid-July

Size: 2' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Bearing a crown of 12 or more narrow vertical petals surrounded by an outer ring of cupped soft orange sepals, this Trollius is known as the “Queen of the Buttercups.” Lustrous dark green leaves—serrated, toothed and finely cut—meld a vigorous basal clump that launches the sturdy, 3 ft. tall flowering stems in no need of staking.

Blooms June–July

Size: 2-1/2' – 3' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Pale yellow, tissue-like petals fashion a chic, nearly double, shallow open cup. Casting a soft feminine mood, the sumptuous blooms pose above an attractive mound of shiny foliage carved into small sections. A Dutch introduction, ‘Cheddar’ deserves to find its way into more gardens, where it will flourish in damp open sites matched with companions such as Sanguisorba ‘Chocolate Tip’ or Geranium ‘Dark Reiter’.

Blooms June–July

Size: 2' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Steeped in old-world allure, the gleaming flush of lusty deep green lobed foliage coronates large double lemon-yellow globes. A 1920s selection that shares lineage with Trollius europaeus, Trollius asiaticus and Trollius chinensis, this hybrids urbane silken flowers alight tall sleek stalks, flaunting showy stamens and a composed beauty. "Lemon Queen" demands cool moist soil and easily rules a woodlands edge with confidants such as Astilbe "Perkeo" and low growing Anemones.

Blooms June–July

Size: 2-1/4' high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Large creamy-yellow double blooms revel atop strong, straight leafy stems and deep-hewn toothed greenery that sports a shiny finish. This new, vastly improved cultivar arose from seed that Dutch nurseryman Coen Jansen sent to Jelitto Perennial Seeds in 2011 following his breeding work with Trollius ‘Alabaster’, an old introduction from George Arends’ famed nursery. A friend to bees and floral designers, but not bunnies, ‘New Moon’s vigorous habit and posh Paeony-style flowers can be surrounded by Iris chrysographes ‘Black Form’ and Athyrium ‘Ghost’.

Blooms June–July

Size: 2' 0" high x 18" wide.

Zone 3/4.

Surviving the test of time, this cherished compact Trollius was first trialed at Britain’s Wisley Gardens around 1929. Poised on sturdy stems, large, dazzling yellowish orange blooms are bedecked with ornate central clusters of darker tangerine petals. ‘Orange Crest’s ebullient buttercup-like display and tasteful, deeply divided glabrous leaves crave morning sun and cool moist soil.

Blooms June–July

Size: 2' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Distinguished by overlapping, incurved petals bathed in cool lemon-yellows, beautiful globes gracefully alight foot long olive-green stems. A polished foliar mass grounds the bounteous one to two in. blooms. Maintaining a fresh look even when exposed to drier conditions, the large richly green leaves are rounded and divided into 5 parts with each lobed leaflet emargined by prominent teeth.

Blooms June–July.

Size: 2' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Indigenous to the mountainous regions in northern Burma and western China, this seldom-offered long-lived perennial premiers gorgeous large semidouble flowers with sunshine-hued petals encompassing a decorative ring of frilly yellow stamens. Stately upright stems plus deeply incised palmate leaves make a bold polished foundation for the open-faced midsummer blooms that lure bees, floral designers and plant-enthusiasts alike. Most effective when featured en masse, Trollius stenopetalus’s energetic trouble-free stance cheers moist borders, watersides and boggy areas.

Blooms June–July

Size: 2' 0" – 2-1/2' high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

With subtle grace, this moisture-loving woodland dweller unveils exquisitely dainty, moonlit yellow blooms. Its slender rhizomes send up a colony of wiry, erect branching stalks alternately wrapped in smooth, fresh green oblong foliage without petioles. From the upper leaf nodes on arched stem tips, 6 twisted lanceolate petals define narrowly bell-shaped blooms that enact a merry, dangling dance.

A Solomon’s Seal relation native to central and eastern America, Merrybells easily enchants any open, shady haunt given humus-rich soil, mulch and companions like Disporum ‘Heronswood Night’ and Ajuga ‘Chocolate Chip’.

Blooms March–April.

Size: 12" high x 9" wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Grounded by gray-green rosettes, these upstanding spires of copious violet-eyed sunshine-hued blooms stage a truly incandescent spectacle. Irregular scallops, net-veining and long petioles define its dynamic large basal leaves. Preferring a somewhat dry, well-drained site, ‘Sixteen Candles’s proud yellow floral towers command attention alongside Nepeta reichenbachiana.

Blooms June–August

Size: 2-1/2' – 3' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Luminous tapers unfurl droves of tightly set pure white flowers centered by fleecy purple filaments and bright orange anthers. The flat-faced blooms shine above wrinkled grayish green leaves. Conveying a bright floral lift all summer long, this undemanding perennial can be sited in drier garden areas with Achillea x schwellenberg and Eryngium "Blue Glitter".

Blooms June–August

Size: 3' 0" – 3-1/2' high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

When British plant breeders, Vic Johnstone and Claire Wilson, developed more than a thousand hybrids utilizing various wild Verbascum species, they chose only the best dozen seedlings and dubbed them ‘The Riverside Hybrids’; this splendid toasty hued prodigy was one of them. Sprouting from handsome rippled green basal leaves, numerous, well-branched straight stems bolster burgundy flushed button-like buds on tall floral spikes.

Large and luscious, wide-open coppery orange flowers, festooned with a central cluster of woolly light violet filaments, lend warm vertical accents to Allium ‘Gladiator’.

Blooms July – August.

Size: 4' 0" – 5' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Hoisted by an attractive textural rosette of deeply-veined gray-green leaves, the tall hefty spires are chock-a-block with saucer-shaped purple-centered bright yellow blossoms. Often short-lived, but freely reseeding, this easy-care Cotswold Series member was selected in the 1930s for her robust stature and long-blooming bold flowers which unfurl from the bottom upwards. ‘Cotswold Queen’ promises to reign supreme in borders, cottage gardens and gravel plantings, especially when ensconced near blue-flowering Eryngiums.

Blooms July–August

Size: 4' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

This Verbascum’s hushed colors are soothing to the senses and easy to blend with other perennials. Centered by delicate orange stamens, the cupped, dusky primrose-yellow flowers and cream-colored buds squeeze onto numerous branched candelabra-style spires. Downy gray leaves converge at the base of the statuesque presentation, while Echinops ‘Arctic Glow’s snow-white spheres make a pleasing counterpoint.

Blooms July–August

Size: 4' 0" – 4-1/2' high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

A felted biennial rosette of ample, grayish green ripple-edged foliage unleashes spectacular 6 ft. tall luminous flowering stalks. The crowded, blunt-tipped stout stems house fuzzy, round silver buds and large saucer-shaped blossoms bathed in soft custard yellow hues with orange anthers. These long blooming, multibranched beauties are some of the last flowers to grace our mixed border, delivering glowing vertical accents ‘til October’s end.

Blooms July–October.

Size: 6' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

With flower panicles reaching over 3 ½ ft. tall, ‘Album’ is truly dramatic. Its myriad white flowers are tinged with crimson at the base of each petal and accented by golden-orange stamens. The large basal leaves are coarse, deep green and textured. Their undulating margins, and often their stems, are tinted a dark burgundy color.

Blooms July–August

Size: 4' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

A remarkable perennial of Olympian proportions, Candlewick originates in Europe’s Bithynian Mountains. Large, felted, wavy-edged leaves form a huge, silvery basal rosette that lasts through the winter. In summer, woolly “candles” branch out at the base, and soar skyward with cheerful clusters of bright yellow flowers. Outstanding as a feature plant in a shrubby Mediterranean border, this monumental Mullein appreciates a dry spot.

Blooms July–September.

Size: 6' 0" – 8' 0" high x 2' 0" – 3' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 7.

Studded with yellow-eyed pure white blooms, slender flowering spikes herald a niveous display anchored by the tidy compact rosette of ripple-edged green foliage. ‘Flush of White’s uniform snowy coloration is unusual for a Verbascum, while its smaller stance becomes an added bonus where space is limited.

Blooms May–August

Size: 2' 0" – 2-1/2' high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

Bejeweled in pretty carmine-pink hues, ‘Rosetta’s prismatic floral fete unfurls all summer long above an undemanding comely basal clump of crimpled dark green leaves. The tall flowering spires are adorned with sumptuous, gold-centered, saucer-shaped blossoms that create a head-turning color echo amid the vivacious hues of Phygelius ‘New Sensation’ and Liatris ‘Floristan Violett’.

Blooms May–August

Size: 2' 0" – 2-1/2' high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

As a precursor to the long-lasting floral show, enchanting buds swell, looking a bit like tiny dark silk cushions. A low-lying deep green rosette of oval-shaped crinkled leaves provides an appealing foil for the richly colored flowering spires. Illuminated by gilt stamens, papery purple blooms are flat-faced and make fabulous additions to cut arrangements. Self-seeding easily, and shorter in stature than many Verbascum species, ‘Violetta’ is tailor-made for more intimate spaces.

Blooms May–August

Size: 2' 0" – 3' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 6.

Romantic shades of rose pink and salmon dress up these saucer-shaped dark-eyed blooms. Lovely tall straight spikes rise from a ripply purple-streaked, vibrant green rosette. Partner with Monarda ‘Purple Rooster’ and Eryngium ‘Silver Salentino’ for divergent flower forms and an unrivalled feminine touch.

Blooms June–August

Size: 4' 0" – 4-1/2' high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

A stately stand of tall branched racemes laden with large, cupped white blooms distinguishes this Verbascum cultivar. Fuzzy basal foliage, steeped in soft smoky greens, grounds the sparkling display that shows a lively splash of color when reddish purple floral filaments appear.

Blooms June–August

Size: 3-1/4' – 4' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

A celebrated perennial whose fans include both experienced gardeners and novices, plus florists and hummingbirds, this versatile South American native delivers outstanding flower-power. Rough, lance-shaped dark green basal foliage gives way to wiry and sparsely leafed angular-branching stems, which elevate a consortium of tiny lavender-violet blooms. With flowers borne in dense tufts atop its airy profile, Brazilian Vervain brings a colorful carefree look to cottage gardens or more wild venues, especially when sprinkled amid ornamental grasses.

Blooms June–October

Size: 3' 0" – 6' 0" high x 2' 0" – 3' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 7.

This vigorous North American native grows upright and develops a dense, broad crown after a few seasons. The effect is almost candelabralike, with tiny blue-violet flowers and purple bracts opening in an upward-moving whorl along branching flower spikes. The vibrant glow of the flowers reflects the deep purple stems and brightens the dark green pointed foliage. For an interesting blend of forms, plant this Vervain with Rodgersias and Helianthus hirsutus.

Blooms July–September.

Size: 4' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

This hearty North American native grows straight, developing a dense, broad crown after a few seasons. The effect is almost candelabra-like, with tiny blue-violet blooms and deep purple bracts opening in an upward-moving whorl along branching flower spikes. The vibrant bicolored glow of the blossoms reflects the deep purple stems and brightens the pointed dark green opposite foliage. For an arresting blend of forms, plant this Vervain with Silphium integrifolium and Sesleria "Greenlee".

Blooms June–October

Size: 3' 0" – 4' 0" high x 18" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Petite vividly colored flowers and darker pink buds are housed on well-branched slender spires, which open from the bottom up. The delightful floral parade rides straight-backed, tall swarthy stems clothed in opposite and pointy, lax dark green leaves, creating a dynamic juxtaposition between the untaut foliage and the plant’s stiff upright stature. ‘Pink Spires’s cut-flower-perfect blooms unfurl all summer long, while its lanky bearing adds height to your border and never needs staking.

Blooms June–October

Size: 3' 0" – 4' 0" high x 18" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Perched on stiff tribranched candelabra-style stems, small dense clusters of electric purple flowers work tirelessly from late spring ’til early autumn, delighting pollinators and plant enthusiasts. Attractive rough-surfaced dark greenery—oblong and toothed—loosely cloaks the upright bushy habit that endures heat, drought and most pests. A somewhat tender, low growing perennial, ‘Santos’ craves sun and good drainage, fits easily into smaller gardens or containers plus makes a dazzling companion for Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ and Crocosmia ‘John Boots’.

Blooms June–mid-October

Size: 18" – 2' 0" high x 2' 0" – 3' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 7.

A robust presence, unsurpassed late fall color and a compelling winter silhouette are this North American prairie dweller’s claim to fame. Painted with opulent crimson-purple hues, the flat branched heads of Aster-like flowers surmount proud stiff stems and long lance-shaped, rough-to-the touch green leaves. A finale of fluffy white seed heads matures to a rusty orange, earning its common name, while the genus pays tribute to William Vernon, a British botanist who collected the species in Maryland in 1698.

Clump-forming Ironweed is well-suited for a modern meadow-style theme, holding its own amongst bold, green bladed Miscanthus or more airy Molinia or tall perennials like Helianthus ‘Lemon Queen’ and Aconitum. Beloved by bees and butterflies everywhere, it’s easily cultivated, appreciating a well drained moderately moist site.

Blooms August – September.

Size: 5' 0" high x 12" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Venerated for its iron-related traits including arrow-straight brawny stems, fluffy warm rust-tinged seed heads and a rugged constitution, this easily grown late bloomer roams the moist prairies from Ohio to North Dakota and south to Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. Glabrous green linear leaves line smooth stalks, rendering a brilliant purple burst of densely clustered composite flowers that hosts the American Painted Lady butterfly. Its substantial hard-working presence can be featured in informal borders or meadow-style settings and ensconced with Sanguisorba 'Chocolate Tip', Eryngium yuccifolium and native grasses.

Blooms July–September

Size: 2' 0" – 4' 0" high x 18" – 3' 0" wide.

Zone 3/4.

Wandering amidst Arkansas and Oklahoma’s rocky outcrops and flood plains, this graceful easy-care perennial pays homage to George W. Letterman, a highly regarded loner-type botanist who scoured the Missouri Ozarks searching for unusual plants. Vernonia lettermannii’s steadfast taproot sends forth well-branched, sturdy upright stems cloaked with ultrathin lanceolate green leaves, while hundreds of close-knit royal-purple flowers, held in countless small clusters, roost above. Relished by bees, moths, skippers and butterflies, the late summer flowers plus soft-looking deer-proof demeanor can stabilize slopes, garnish a cut arrangement or enhance water-wise gardens, natural-style plantings and perennial borders. Sunshine galore, sharp drainage and moderately moist to dry soil ensure its prismatic fine textured allure.

Blooms August–September

Size: 2-1/2' – 3-1/2' high x 18" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

We owe a round of applause to Dr. Allen Armitage for his University of Georgia plant trials, which produced this highly acclaimed selection of Arkansas resident, Vernonia lettermannii. Distinguished by dainty-looking thread-like green leaves, the robust, yet compact, attractively branched mounding habit affords small, tubular bright purple blooms housed in showy terminal sprays. Possessing both a herculean mettle and ultrafine texture, ‘Iron Butterfly’ demands free-draining niches, extends seasonal interest with warm rusty-toned autumn flowers plus triumphs over hot dry conditions as well as sandy, infertile rock-strewn sites.

Blooms August–September

Size: 2' 0" – 3' 0" high x 18" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

A flashy new 2014 Jelitto Seeds introduction, this quibble-free white-blooming version of New York Ironweed propels erect upright stalks, densely cloaked in serrated, lanceolate green leaves, buoying fluffy delicate plumes of narrow-petaled creamy-white daisies. Followed by decorative seed heads, the long-lasting late season blooms make bright additions to cut arrangements and entice many garden visitors, especially bees and butterflies. ‘White Lightening’s clumping bushy habit can be massed or planted as a striking focal point for a somewhat informal venue, where it will readily adapt to variable conditions.

Blooms August–October

Size: 6' 0" high x 2-1/2' wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Hats off to esteemed plant breeder Jim Ault from the Chicago Botanical Garden for this winning midsized Vernonia lettermannii and Vernonia angustifolia hybrid. Composed of thin violet-tinged olive-green leaves, the bushy fine-textured habit promotes an overall rich rubescent tone beneath copious deep purple flowers. Steadfast long branching stalks are uniquely intertwined and remain upright, even during storms, while supporting plump capitula packed with late season, long-lasting florets that tantalize bees, moths and butterflies. Adaptable to moist and dry conditions, ‘Summer’s Swan Song’ can be utilized singularly or planted en masse in well-drained mixed borders, pollinator gardens and near water’s edge, where it boasts impressive rust and mildew resistance. (pp#28,556)

Blooms September–October

Size: 2-1/2' high x 2-1/2' – 3' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Bees, butterflies and plant lovers arrive in droves to enjoy the tapering frosty tipped spires of tight-knit, vivid blue-violet flowers carried on branched leafy stems. Looking a bit like a Sage, the slender, toothed lance-shaped leaves create a tasteful, compact cool silver mass that is more tolerant of hot humid summers than other incana. An ideal low growing candidate for sharp-draining borders, pathway edging, walls or rock gardens, "Pure Silver" enhances companions such as Potentilla "Apricot Whisper" and Agastache "Firebird".

Blooms June–July

Size: 12" – 2' 0" high x 8" – 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Strong erect stems elevate a refreshing floral display of tall, slender pure white columns crowded with small tubular blossoms that taper into curvy green tips. Beloved by bees, butterflies and flower arrangers, the sophisticated spires bloom for several months, and last in a vase for 7 to 10 days. This clump-forming hardy perennial dons toothed and pointed, lance-shaped leaves, lending a lush green presence to the rockery or mixed border, especially when planted in eye-catching drifts.

Blooms June – August.

Size: 3' 0" high x 15" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Recently awarded a bronze medal by the Boskoop Horticultural Society, this vibrant new introduction comes to our country courtesy of the acclaimed Dutch nursery, Rijnbeek. Slender toothed green leaves, which are less prone than most Veronica to mildew and leaf spot, compose a tidy basal bed beneath plentiful dark blue spires. The plump electric-hued inflorescences seem to glitter as fanciful looking, long light-colored stamens unfurl, setting ‘Marietta’ apart from its Veronica longifolia cousins.

Blooms June-July

Size: 2' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

All the way from Asia Minor’s sunny Mediterranean haunts comes this irresistible yet hard working evergreen ground cover. Offering up hordes of endearing bright blue, white-eyed blooms over a long period, this prostate Speedwell crafts a gray-green, matting carpet defined by light hairy stems and fuzzy deep cut foliage that looks a bit like miniature oak leaves.

Veronica pectinata is tailor-made for softening steps, rock walls or a path’s edge and is a cinch to grow, requiring only minimal water and a well drained nook.

Blooms July–mid-September.

Size: 2' 0" – 4' 0" high x 12" – 15" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

With vibrant blue-violet flower spires, a well-groomed low growing appearance and exceptional cold hardiness, this hard-to-find reliable Siberian beauty captivates gardeners and butterflies alike. A slowly creeping dense mat of compact, somewhat round-tipped and widely toothed forest green leaves supports electrifying blooms all summer long and makes a resilient nofuss contender for a well-drained rockery, pathway or trough garden.

Blooms June–September.

Size: 8" – 12" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 3.

Plentiful and sumptuously colored, the dense, dark violet-blue tapers crown a compact, noninvasive base of glossy deep green foliage that stays fresh well into fall. Show off this perky new British cultivar right up front with Achillea ‘Marmalade’s cheerful yellow flowers.

Blooms June–July.

Size: 15" – 18" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

A hybrid between Veronica armena and Veronica pectinata, this stellar weed-suppressing evergreen ground cover was introduced in 2007 by Dr. Jim Ault from the Chicago Botanical Garden. ‘Tidal Pool’ touts its parents’ finest traits plus exhibits a more close-knit, faster-to-spread prostate habit that’s festooned with oodles of small, white-eyed, vivid blue-violet blossoms. Acquiescent to cold, heat, humidity and dry conditions, the petite, slightly pubescent oak-shaped green leaves are dusted with blue and emphasize versatile good looks for nuzzling against steps or rocks, edging pathways, draping over walls and any other sunny, well-drained nook. (pp#23,341)

Blooms April–May

Size: 2" – 4" high x 2' 0" – 2-1/2' wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Discovered by John Wachter and introduced by the Chicago Botanic Garden, this lush-looking evergreen ground cover arose as a Veronica ‘Waterperry Blue’ sport. Creeping wiry stems plus glossy, notched dark green leaves are embellished with long-blooming petite pure white flowers that beckon butterflies, hummingbirds and plant lovers. Most effective when massed, ‘Whitewater’s steadfast mat-like habit appreciates good drainage, resists deer and rabbits, casts warm maroon-bronze tones during cool weather plus softens pathways, stone walls and containers.

Blooms June–July

Size: 4" – 8" high x 12" – 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Studded with lavender blue blooms, the lengthy flower spikes make an elegant presentation. Arranged in groups, they stand proudly on upright, sturdy stems, which sport spaced whorls of neat, broadly lanceolate leaves. This noble Asian native offers an admirable contrast to mounding forms, such as Amsonia hubrichtii.

Blooms July–September.

Size: 5' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

True to its name, this singular undemanding Coen Jansen introduction asserts deep rosy-red buds squeezed onto a central spike, surrounded by slightly smaller side stalks all opening at the same time and presenting a unique arrow shape. Cherished by bees and butterflies, the striking spires unfurl a score of tiny violet flowers, while whorled lanceolate leaves attire tall strong stems. A glamorous upright mainstay for any planting, ‘Red Arrows’ soars amongst Phlox ‘Nicky’ and Sedum ‘Matrona’ in a meadow-like setting or a more formal landscape.

Blooms July–September

Size: 4' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

A towering inhabitant of Missouri’s open woods, prairies and moist meadows, this regal straight-backed perennial is the epitome of today’s prairie-style plantings, equally comfortable in formal or informal gardens. Crowded with small tubular whitish blue flowers, the slender, nectar-rich candelabra-shaped panicles reside atop dashing lance-shaped vibrant green leaves that congregate in groups of 3 to 7, forming spaced whorls along sturdy stems.

Blooms June–early August

Size: 4' 0" – 6' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

In addition to the stylish blooms, this sought-after Veronicastrum gives you good reason to adore it. When tall valiant stems stretch skyward, they strut prismatic purple shades that are easily spotted from a distance, promising to turn more than a few heads. Dense, round pink buds set the stage for ethereal-looking lilac flowers on candelabra-like spires, further enhancing the natty whorls of pointed deep green leaves.

Blooms July–August

Size: 4' 0" – 5' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Resembling glowing tapers, erect snowy-white racemes tipped with green buds make a crisp classic statement. The luminous blooms hold court above whorls of horizontally set deep green leaves that grow at intervals along upstanding steadfast stems. Veronicastrum ‘Album’ commands our attention, while it sheds light on cohorts such as Persicaria ‘Blackfield’ or Helenium ‘Moerheim Beauty’.

Blooms late May–July

Size: 4' 0" high x 15" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

‘Apollo’s leafy stems taper delicately into foot-long lilac racemes tipped with lucent green buds, which bend and curve, adding a playful air to its imposing carriage. Display graceful ‘Apollo’ with Angelica archangelica’s rounded umbels, and the rosy plumes of Miscanthus ‘Nippon’.

Blooms August–September

Size: 5' 0" – 5-1/2' high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Packed green buds plus petite soft pink tubular blooms populate the lanky slim, finger-like terminal racemes that are characterized by a main central spike and surrounding shorter ones. A friend to pollinators, floral artists and gardeners alike, this recent Piet Oudolf selection peacocks straight swarthy stems clothed in whorls of winsome lance-shaped pointed green leaves. ‘Challenger’s noble presence and dreamy pastel-colored blooms can be intermingled with Boltonia ‘Pink Beauty’ and Pennisetum ‘Karley Rose’.

Blooms July–August

Size: 4' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Some say the chunky erect spikes resemble Cupid’s love-struck arrows; we say you’ll be smitten with the flamboyant months-long display. Subtended by smaller lateral mahogany-infused stems plus deep reddish violet buds, the chock-full amethyst-colored blooms develop halo-like white stamens atop an enduring bushy habit of staunch stalks wrapped in handsome whorled lanceolate green foliage. This easy-care statuesque perennial provides striking vertical accents, nourishes the pollinators and promises exceptional cut flowers, fresh or dried, while enjoying cool adequately-moist abodes.

Blooms July–September

Size: 4' 0" high x 18" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

‘Erica’s staunch leafy stems taper delicately into long 2-toned racemes of reddish buds and small tightly packed pale pink flowers with prominent darker stamens. Opening from the base up, the slender wands bend and curve, adding a playful air to the impressive carriage below. Display this graceful Veronicastrum with Angelica ‘Vicar’s Mead’ rounded umbels and the wine-red blades of Panicum ‘Ruby Ribbons’.

Blooms July–September

Size: 3' 0" – 4' 0" high x 15" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

This fantastic North American perennial is renown for its brawny upright stature and distinctive shell-pink floral candelabras. Bewitching gardeners and butterflies alike, the long-lasting densely set spires surmount firm stems clad with dapper dark green lanceolate leaves. Undemanding ‘Roseum’ resists deer and most pests, appreciates adequate moisture, makes a stellar addition to cut arrangements and can be positioned near Phlox ‘Blue Paradise’ and Aster ‘October Skies’.

Blooms late July–mid September

Size: 4' 0" high x 2' 0" – 2-1/2' wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Come late summer, when afternoon shadows lengthen across the garden, we watch for the setting sun to illuminate this stately specimen, its 15 in. long rosy-lilac racemes culminate in narrow, often pendulous, vivid green-budded tips. Strong stems bearing whorled, darkly verdant linear foliage seldom need staking. Pair with arching Stipa gigantea in the border for a natural look.

Blooms July–August

Size: 5' 0" – 5-1/2' high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Coined Lavender Towers, this noble Ernest Pagels introduction is aptly named. Straight-up stems garbed in handsome greenery-whorled, toothed and pointed-give way to long branched spikes embellished with lovely pale purple flowers.

Blooms August–September

Size: 4' 0" – 5' 0" high x 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Hailed as one of the best Veronicastrum to grow according to British plantswoman Marina Christopher, this courtly perennial earns its keep when chic extra-long, slender white tapers flash sparkling snowy accents atop the proud vertical stand. Attractive whorls of horizontally-held, toothed lance-like leaves first unfurl in striking pale silver-green hues, then eventually turn more green as the weather warms. A commanding columnar presence for sunny borders and sufficiently moist natural-style plantings, ‘Spring Dew’ bewitches the butterflies, sometimes requires staking and partners well with Panicum ‘Summer Sunrise’ and Phlox amplifolia ‘Winnetou’.

Blooms mid-June–July

Size: 4' 0" high x 18" – 2' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

Touted as one of the darkest hued flowers in cultivation, this long blooming Viola will indeed work some magic wherever it’s planted. Each large, 1 in. wide edible flower possesses sumptuous jet black hues and a small sunny yellow eye that’s rimmed with violet above a compact, grassy green dainty-leafed clump. ‘Black Magic’s low growing heat tolerant habit promises oodles of blossoms throughout the cooler months, an autumn encore if trimmed back and renewed vigor following a September dividing.

Blooms May–September.

Size: 6" – 8" high x 6" – 8" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Violets have long been associated with faithfulness, and this delicate beauty holds true to her promise, blooming nonstop from spring until frost. Lifted on thin stems just above small, green scalloped leaves, the lavish display of dainty, midnight black flowers achieves a velvet luxury as deep purple accents surround golden eyes. Always appreciative of a good trimming, this compact Violet can be naturalized under a shrub, situated amid Alchemilla erythropoda by the patio or planted in a favored terracotta vessel.

Blooms May–September.

Size: 8" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 7.

While the species conjures the lore of yesteryear, romance and folk remedies, this hard-to-find form saunters throughout Eurasian forest clearings and woodland peripheries, touting large uniquely colored blooms. In early spring, pastel creamy-yellow hues and a touch of apricot suffuse the lightly scented pollinator-friendly flowers above heart-shaped glabrous greenery. Slow-spreading, long-lived stolons forge a carefree, low evergreen presence that can embellish patio containers, naturalized areas and other shady humus-rich niches.

Blooms February–April

Size: 6" high x 12" wide.

Hardy to zone 4.

‘Rebecca’ is treasured for her divine vanilla fragrance and tidy compact clumps of dapper evergreen foliage. All are equally captivating, though no two are alike, each ebullient white flower showcases a creamy lemon flushed center and irregularly patterned, deep violet edges. This sweet smelling Viola should be ensconced near a well-traveled path or seating area, where its plentiful color flecked flowers can be easily relished ‘till the first hard frost.

Blooms May – mid-October.

Size: 8" – 10" high x 10" – 15" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Originating as a chance seedling in Bibb County, Alabama, and recently introduced by Delaware's Mt. Cuba Center, this dazzling nearly evergreen Viola lives up to its name. Prominent olive green veins and greenish purple reverses distinguish low growing heartshaped silvery leaves that clothe trailing stems and forge a no-nonsense dense mounded ground cover. Energetic, adaptable and drought tolerant once established, 'Silver Gem's dapper appearance is further festooned with a multitude of delicate purple flowers from spring until frost.

Blooms April–September.

Size: 3" – 5" high x 8" – 10" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

Standing straight and bright green, the pleated all-season foliage forges a bold, sword-shaped presence for the back of the garden. Eye catching flower stems develop short side branches, each presenting several good-sized starry golden orange flowers with darker markings on their lower petals.

This long blooming South African native is easy to grow in moist heavy soils, and for a real surprise, dig down to see its otherworldly, dayglow orange roots.

Blooms May–August.

Size: 4' 0" – 6' 0" high x 2' 0" – 3' 0" wide.

Zone 8/9.

Bathed in icy gray-green and powder-blue with a dusky-purple overlay, this handsome pastel-hued

treasure manifests a tough disposition. Rigid evergreen leaves with pointed tips and fine-toothed margins craft a rounded barrel-like rosette that develops slowly, its amethyst coloration intensifying as the weather heats up. Pendulous, waxy white flowers draped on stout panicles deliver late summer sparkle. Unfazed by meddlesome deer, drought, moisture and humidity, ‘Blue Boy’ can harmonize with Melianthus major and Festuca ‘Superba’.

Blooms July–August

Size: 4' 0" – 6' 0" high x 3' 0" wide.

Zone 7/8.

Considered one of the most attractive variegated Yuccas, this Japanese cultivar’s stiff spiky foliage comprises a mesmerizing close-set evergreen rosette. Achieving an added luster when long, curly white margin fibers seem to capture the moonlight, each spine-tipped leaf is etched by celadon green margins and a bold, creamy-gold central stripe, which becomes brighter in midsummer, but blushes with a rosy coloration most of the year. ‘Color Guard’s grand silhouette can stand alone, be juxtaposed with Plectranthus ‘Longwood Silver’s soft felted foliage or be planted en masse.

Blooms June–July

Size: 3' 0" – 6' 0" high x 3' 0" – 4' 0" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.

This cultivars stiff, spiky leaves comprise a closely set, evergreen rosette thats most effective planted en masse. Outlined in green and marked down the center with a bold, creamy gold stripe. the foliage flexes slightly and an added luster is achieved when long, silvery margin fibers seem to uniquely capture the moonlight! Strength is spotlighted when Garlands Gold is partnered with Plectranthus Longwood Silvers felted foliage.

Blooms July–August

Size: 5' 0" high x 3' 0" wide.

Zone 5/6.

A beguiling sculptural rosette of thin, pointed steel-blue blades, year-round good looks and exceptional hardiness is what this shrubby fine textured Yucca has to offer. Relatively short, flexible leaves forge a spectacular specimen well-suited for a container or the dry garden. Selected by Sean Hogan of Cistus Nursery from seed he collected in northern Mexico, it will eventually become an upright unbranched plant that prefers to bake in a hot sunny spot with alkaline soil, while protection from excessive cold-season moisture and wind help ensure a successful overwintering.

Blooms July–August

Size: 4' 0" high x 3' 0" wide.

Zone 5/6.

David Salman’s first and favorite Zauschneria introduction, this vigorous low-growing ground cover celebrates prismatic, long-lasting blooms that mesmerize bees, hummingbirds and plant-lovers alike. Dazzling droves of trumpet-shaped orange-red flowers festoon tailored, slim bright green leaves plus trailing stems arising from slow-spreading rhizomes. One of the most cold-hardy California Fuchsias available, American-born ‘Orange Carpet’ is a resilient perennial for vitalizing slopes, rockeries, garden walls or container rims, where it endures deer, dry conditions and poor rocky soil, but never wet poorly-drained sites.

Blooms July–September

Size: 6" high x 15" – 20" wide.

Hardy to zone 5.