The Lazy Shady Gardener

Flower Power: GBBD January 2012

2012-01-21T13:01:00.000-06:00

Annuals

Pansies (Viola tricolor) & Ornamental Cabbage (Brassica oleracea)

Flower Wannabes

Nandina (Nandina domestica)

Possumhaw (Ilex decidua)

Dwarf Buford Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii Nana')

Potted Plants

Aloe 'Doran Black'

Indoor Plants

Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis sp.)

Tardies

Mahonia (Mahonia aquifolium)

Post Freeze: Aloe Was Blooming in December

2011-12-07T18:19:00.001-06:00

Well, by golly, I guess this proves that Soap Aloe (Aloe maculata) blooms don't like 28 degree nights. Think the plant itself likely suffered some damage but it tends to handle that level of cold fairly well.

Aloe Blooms in December

2011-12-06T20:12:00.001-06:00

The Soap Aloe (Aloe maculata) that started blooming in mid-November is still going strong.

But my garden has been flirting with freezing temperatures, and tonight should finally see it get down to near 28 degrees. Typically, I leave all my in-ground plants unprotected down to this temperature, and only cover if it dips even lower. But it will be interesting to see how the Aloe blooms fares.

Flower Power: GBBD November 2011

2011-11-15T11:45:00.000-06:00

On the 15th of every month, May Dream Gardens invites us to record the plants that are blooming in our gardens. After our brutal summer's heat & drought, it was nice to see some flowers return due to cooler temperatures and a single brief shower.

Established Plants

Rose Creek Abelia (Abelia x grandiflora 'Rose Creek') has produced more blooms this fall than ever before - a nice comeback after our hard summer.

Toad Lily (Tricyrtis lasiocarpa) had a rough time with the drought, but was able to produce a few blooms for the fall. Always impressed with its unique blossoms.

This is the end of the first full year for the Forsythia Sage (Salvia madrensis) in my garden. It struggled and only reached a height of less than three feet, but is still trying to put out some yellow flowers.

West Texas Mist Flower (Conoclinium greggii) continues to produce a sprawling purple coverage over its area in the garden.

Philippine Violets (Barleria cristata) is another plant that seemed to produce fewer blooms than usual this fall - less than 6 flowers have shown up on it.

Blue Anise Sage (Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue') was able to produce at least a few blooms after struggling mightily during our summer. Though vegetation is sparse, at least the few intensely-colored blooms are enjoyable.

New Plants in the Garden

Pale Pavonia (Pavonia hastata) produces nice, bright blossoms at its tips - but is quite lanky in my shade.

Indoor Plants

The usually reliable Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) did not like our intense summer heat this year - it lost over half of its foliage and thus produced very few blooms for our winter. Thinking that I may need to bring it inside next summer.

Flower Wannabes

Dwarf Buford Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii Nana') berries are changing from green to dull red to increasingly bright colors as the season progresses.

Chile Petin's (Capsicum annuum var. aviculare) has several bright green and red berries scattered amongst its foliage.

The Possumhaw (Ilex decidua) trees lost much of their foliage early this fall due to the drought - but was still able to produce a fair number of bright red berries that are really starting to show.

Of course, the bad-boy Nandina (Nandina domestica) shrugs off heat, drought and everything else to continue to look good and produce large numbers of berries. Know its invasive, but like any "weed" - it sure does well.

Tardies

Joe Pye Shrub (Eupatorium viburnoides) seems to have actually grown more than usual this year - apparently liking the heat. It has not yet opened its flower clusters.

A late blooming Soap Aloe (Aloe maculata) is sending up a short flower stalk that has not yet spread it's reddish-orange clusters of flowers. It's a race against the winter's first freeze to see if I'll actually get to enjoy the show.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens to see what other gardeners have blooming in their beds.

Shady Happenings: Oct-Nov 2011

2011-11-13T11:52:00.001-06:00

Over the last few weeks, I was able to spend at least a little time in the garden in an attempt to accomplish some of the many needed tasks.

The Water Poppy (Hydrocleys nymphoides) is a lovely aquatic plant - pretty yellow blooms rising from a cover of thick, green leaves. But I have found that it does a little too well - it's aggressive nature can lead it to taking over a pond.

Since it had completely covered the surface of my small pond, I decided to remove it so that I could enjoy the water. Only one waterfall was working, but after some pipe-clearing, I was able to get both sides going again. Likely the Water Poppy will return from roots established in the bottom muck - so I'll have to keep an eye out for it.

After several areas around Austin experienced an early freeze (not in my garden though), I decided it was time to set up my popup greenhouse and move most of my potted Aloes (and a few other plants) inside for safe-keeping. It has, of course, since warmed up back into the 80s...but at least now I'm ready for colder weather.

Have also reached the limit of my patience with some of my potted plants. Have moved several over into an area of the garden where they await their eminent demise from lack of water & winter's grasp.

The garden has experienced a really rough summer - extreme high temperatures and horrible drought has certainly taken its toll. I have read of several other Austin garden bloggers planting shrubs and trees this fall (the perfect time to do so here) - but I am likely to let this fall planting season go by without adding any new plants to the garden.

But I am making plans for trying some of the more shade-tolerant Agaves and Aloes in a front yard bed that gets a little bit more sun than my backyard beds. But I won't be putting anything into the ground until next spring.

Flower Power: GBBD October 2011

2011-10-15T19:55:00.001-05:00

On the fifteenth of every month, May Dream Gardens invites us to participate in Garden Blogger's Bloom Day. Though my garden finally received an inch or more of rain, and temperatures have dropped from the summer's crazy highs - the garden is still almost completely devoid of blossoms.

Established Plants

Though it has only a few blooms, the intense red flowers of the Mountain Sage (Salvia regla) are still quite nice.

The Liriope (Liriope spicata) has been blooming steadily for about a month.

Probably the steadiest performer in my garden, the bright pink blooms of the Rock Rose (Pavonia lasiopetala) are always appreciated.

West Texas Mist Flower (Conoclinium greggii) sprawls across its area, each stem terminating in a cluster of hairy, light purple blooms.

Flower Wannabes

Having dropped most of its leaves due to this summer's heat and drought, the berries of the Possumhaw (Ilex decidua) are just starting to change to their red coloration.

The Chile Petin's (Capsicum annuum var. aviculare) green berries will eventually turn bright red.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens and see what is blooming.

First Spider Lily 2011

2011-09-25T17:21:00.000-05:00

Last year, my very first Red Spider Lily (Lycoris radiata) bloom appeared around September 19. Though in a different spot in the garden, the plant has once again made its initial appearance in late September.

Several of the bulbs have been planted in three different areas of the garden. Last year, only one bloomed near the path. This year, a single bloom has arisen from near the tree.

Another central group has yet to ever produce a bloom. I'm hopeful that this will not be this year's only bloom. But with the heat and drought, I'm happy to see anything!

Planted in Pots:

Created a pot containing Vuurpylaalwyn (Aloe peglerae), Gasteria batesiana and Aloe jucunda (the latter two amongst my most recent purchases from the Austin Cactus & Succulent Society Show).

Foliage Follow-up: September 2011

2011-09-16T19:43:00.000-05:00

As of today, we have experienced 85 days with a high temperature at or above 100 degrees. The average yearly number of 100 degree days in Austin, Texas is 13.5 - I'm thinking this year will be pushing that average up quite a bit. The previous yearly record for the most 100 degree days was 69 set in 1925 - that record has been absolutely shattered. And to make matters worse, rainfall has been almost non-existent in my garden for most of the year.

Needless to say, participating in Digging's Foliage Follow-up is a bit of struggle.

Be sure to visit Digging to see what foliage can be found in other's gardens. Hope theirs is faring better than mine!

Flower Power: GBBD September 2011

2011-09-15T17:40:00.000-05:00

As I ventured out to participate in May Dream Gardens' Garden Bloggers Bloom Day, I could think of only two plants blooming in our everlasting heat & drought. But I was surprised to discover a few additional spots of color. Of course, we're not talking a lot here - excluding the Soap Aloe, I could gather all the remain garden's blooms and pile them into one hand.

Established Plants

Showing more blooms than any other non-potted garden plant, my few Liriope (Liriope spicata) add a nice splash of purple.

Having never bloomed before, one of my three Dwarf Mexican Firebush (Hamelia patens 'Compacta') seems to be celebrating the heat by producing some clusters of yellow/red flowers.

Apparently, due to lack of rain, the Pink Rain Lily (Zephyranthes rosea) has lost it's mind. A single pink bloom was found rising up from its grass-like foliage.

Potted Plants

I have several Soap Aloes (Aloe maculata) planted in the ground, but the only specimen to produce flowers this year was the one I had in a pot. Its flower stalk developed in a curled, clumped manner (likely due to lack of water) which actually caused the flowers to be clustered more tightly.

The Ground Orchid (Spathoglottis plicata) continues to have a single tall, thin flower stalk rising up, its tip still producing a cluster of magenta blooms.

Aloe 'Doran Black' has again produced a flower stalk that is just now starting to spread and open its flowers. It has been quite reliable this year.

Flower Wannabes

The bright purple berry clusters of the American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) continue to survive amongst the plant's limp foliage.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens to see what others have blooming in their gardens.

Aloe Acquisitions

2011-08-23T20:13:00.001-05:00

Over the last month, there has been a few additions to my Aloe collection. At the last Oracle Gorge Nursery sale, spotted a couple of nice-looking new varieties that I was able to bring home. Haven't had time to get any of them into new pots.

Really liked the pale coloration of the Aloe pictifolia - it almost appears to have a been lightly coated with a thin whitewash.

On the other end of the color scale is the bright green Aloe juncunda. This variety tends to remain small and grow into a mounding cluster.

Another couple of "additions" weren't new Aloes - but were instead new Aloe blooms. For the Lace Aloe (Aloe aristata) , this is the first time it has bloomed in my garden. The stalk has a definite curl to it which straightened somewhat after a watering.

Most of my Soap Aloes (Aloe maculata) are actually planted in the ground, but one specimen is actually contained within a pot - and is blooming for the first time (all of my in-ground ones are growing and recovering for our past severe winter).

In our ongoing drought and heat (so far every day in August - except one - with a high temperature over 100 degrees), Aloes are certainly a plant variety that does well.

Flower Power: GBBD August 2011

2011-08-15T19:39:00.000-05:00

May Dream Gardens invites everyone, on the fifteenth of the month, to share the blooms found in their gardens. With our ongoing heat & drought, flowers are pretty rare in my garden.

Established Plants

Water plants account for almost all my blooms. The Water Poppy (Hydrocleys nymphoides) has taken over the pond and puts out plenty of its yellow blooms.

Rising high above the pond surface, the Aztec Arrowhead (Sagittaria montevidensis) has a nice cluster of brilliant white blooms that shine in the filtered sunshine.

Potted Plants

Only a single bloom remains on the Ground Orchid (Spathoglottis plicata). Its small cluster of purple flowers has been fading, but at least this one is still hanging in there.

Flower Wannabes

The berries of the American Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) are just starting to change from green to their deep purple color.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens to see what flowers are shining in other's gardens.

How to Kill a Bed in Three Easy Steps

2011-07-31T20:06:00.002-05:00

Step 1: Get as close to summer as you can before placing your plants into the ground.

I waited until May 20 before placing the thirteen Autumn Ferns (Dryopteris erythrosora) into the middle tier of my Three Tiers Bed. Would have preferred to have accomplished this sooner, but was unable to find the desired size & price until late in the season. Might have been better to just leave it bare until fall.

Step 2: Trim lower tree limbs to expose previously dappled shade bed to intense shaft of sunlight.

Last summer, this bed received dappled sun for most of the summer day. But after having some tree trimming done to remove lower limbs and get branches away from the house, the bed still gets the dappled sunlight but also additionally receives two hours of direct late afternoon sun. Which helps a lot if you desire fried plants.

Step 3: Be sure to schedule an ongoing extreme drought and intense summer temperatures.

A steady stream of above 100 degree days combined with a complete lack of moisture have combined to desiccate the soil layer to the utmost level of aridity. Tried to provide assistance with sporadic showers from the hose - but with our present weather conditions, just haven't been able to keep pace with the moisture loss.

So there you have it, three simple steps to wiping out a new garden bed.

Foliage Follow-up: July 2011

2011-07-16T09:42:00.000-05:00

Flowers are great, but the majority of the plant is its foliage - so Digging invites us to celebrate this by posting some pictures of the leaves that make up most of our gardens' show. I decided to concentrate on a few of the plants that seem to be handling our extreme drought and heat better than the rest of my tired, dry collection. All but one are planted in pots - so maybe that is making the difference.

Originally planted in the ground where it struggled, the Star Begonia (Begonia heracleifolia) produced a nice set of blooms this spring and then, as the temperatures increased, it really started putting out the leaves. It has grown four times bigger than it has ever managed before. It's large palmate leaves and hairy stems are quite unique.

Quickly becoming my favorite Aloe, the Lace Aloe (Aloe aristata) has continued to look good and slowly add additional size. Though it has never bloomed, its foliage is extremely attractive and quite different than any of my other Aloes.

Another Aloe that is doing well is the Vuurpylaalwyn (Aloe peglerae) - gotta love a name like that! Almost appearing Agave-like, its leaves have thorns along both its sides and even the underside edge. Appearing quite fearsome, it has been doing well in the heat with only occasional splashes of water.

The only highlighted specimen actually planted in the ground, the Dyckia 'Cherry Coke' has to compete with the trees and other plants for moisture. But it is doing great (and was the only Dyckia to make it through last winter's extreme cold snap with little to no damage). Starting the year off with a green cast, increased sunshine and temperature has caused it to develop a nice reddish hue.

Be sure to visit Digging to see the foliage that is stealing the show in other gardens.

Flower Power: GBBD July 2011

2011-07-15T09:00:00.000-05:00

On the fifteenth of every month, May Dream Gardens invites us to post pictures of the plants that are blooming in our gardens. With our continuing drought, extreme heat and, of course, my ever present shade, blooms are rare and are typically only found as singletons.

Established Plants

Still sporadically producing rainless blooms, the Zephyr Lilies (Zephyranthes 'Labuffarosea') surprises with the occasional flower - though it fades quickly in the heat.

Another surprise is the additional blooms coming from the Chinese Indigo (Indigofera kirilowii) which generally has only flowered in the spring.

Rock Rose (Pavonia lasiopetala) is, of course, still going strong with its bright pink blooms - though only 1-4 blooms at a time on the plant.

Likely the strongest blooming plant presently in the garden, the Water Poppy (Hydrocleys nymphoides) has taken over the pond, completely covering the surface except where the waterfall splashes down.

Another pond plant, the Aztec Arrowhead (Sagittaria montevidensis) has yet another bloom stalk just beginning to erupt with its tri-petaled flowers.

New Plants in the Garden

On the tips of its sprawling limbs, the Pale Pavonia (Pavonia hastata) will sometimes produce its brilliant white flower.

Potted Plants

Aloe 'Doran Black' has had several flower stalks this year, with the latest blooms still going strong.

None of the Ground Orchids (Spathoglottis plicata) planted in the ground survived our winter, but this potted specimen that was protected has started to flower once again.

Indoor Plants

Finally slowing down, only two of my Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis sp.) have any remaining blooms - and only five total between them - but after appearing in five straight GBBDs, I certainly can't complain.

Tardies

Seeming to enjoy our hot, dry weather, the Ox Tongue (Gasteria liliputana) tried to get its flowers open for GBBD - but is going to just miss attending.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens and see what is flowering in other's gardens.

Rise & Fall of the Tricolor Ginger

2011-07-10T14:53:00.000-05:00

The leaves of the Tricolor Ginger (Stromanthe sanguinea 'Triostar') tend to follow a daily pattern. As the morning begins, the leaves are scattered and widespread (similar to one's hair upon first arising).

A couple of hours later, as the day heats up, some of the leaves have started to curl slightly, showing more of their purple undersides.

By early afternoon, the leaves are showing more curl and several have begun to lift themselves up.

By the time evening approaches and the sun starts to set, the leaves have stretched upwards as far as they can reach, showing much of their purple undersides.

During the evening, the leaves will again lower themselves and uncurl, ready to start the entire cycle again the next day. Makes for a rather fun show.

I'd Plant Plastic Flowers...

2011-07-07T15:42:00.002-05:00

...but I'm afraid they'd melt.

This past June was recorded as the second hottest ever for Austin. And we are easily on pace to set a record for the most 100+ degree days to occur over the calender year.

And the drought continues. You know its bad when the weatherman gets excited over a predicted 10% rain chance - a week from now.

Can barely keep up with the demand for water from the potted plants. Those in the ground are mostly left to fend for themselves.

Really could use some rain.

Shower Flowers

2011-06-24T13:31:00.000-05:00

The Rain Lilies have been sporadically and surprisingly sending up the occasional single blossom as our drought has stretched longer and longer. Then overnight on Wednesday (6/22), we finally got some rain. Temperatures are quickly climbing back towards triple digits and the drought wasn't even fazed, but the Rain Lilies have gratefully responded.

Zephyr Lilies

Of the two varieties found in my garden, the Zephyr Lilies (Zephyranthes 'Labuffarosea') have bloomed first, sending up a small cluster of pale whitish-pink flowers. There is also a smattering of singletons scattered about, each with its own individual flower.

The Pink Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes rosea) are also sending up flowers, but none have opened yet - though quite a few should do so soon. Ain't rain wonderful?

Foliage Follow-up: June 2011

2011-06-16T10:29:00.048-05:00

As a follow-up to Garden Blogger's Bloom Day, Digging allows us the chance to show off the leafy aspects of our gardens. With our ongoing drought, plants start the morning looking somewhat perky, and end the day looking pretty wilted.

One potted plant in my garden that demands a bit more water is this pass-along Coleus from Robin at Getting Grounded. I was able to over-winter the plant and it is now back to its former glory. I love the combination of green and maroon splashed about throughout its foliage.

The colors blend together and no two leafs show the same pattern. Though green and maroon are the primary colors, their combination leads to additional flavors of pink and beige.

As the sun sets, it peeks through the upper canopy and highlights the Coleus from behind, lighting up the maroon undersides of the upturned leaves.

I'm unsure as to the variety name of the plant, but it has certainly been a star performer in my garden.

Be sure to visit the Digging blog to see the foliar shows found in other gardens.

Flower Power: GBBD June 2011

2011-06-15T15:10:00.093-05:00

Every month, on the fifteenth, May Dream Gardens invites us to share our gardens flowers. As the drought continues, shady blooms are far and few between. Its not unusual for there to be few flowers for my garden at this time of the year, but the growing number of 100+ degree days has certainly had an even more drastic dampening effect.

Established Plants

Always a consistent heat-loving bloomer, the Rock Rose (Pavonia lasiopetala) is still putting out bright pink blooms.

An aquatic plant that rises out of the pond, the Aztec Arrowhead (Sagittaria montevidensis) isn't bothered by our ongoing drought and heat. Flower stalks rise up, sprout, then fall away - only to be replaced by another.

Another pond plant, the Water Poppy (Hydrocleys nymphoides) covers the entire pond surface, sporadically producing its three-petaled yellow flowers.

Quite surprising with our drought, but I discovered a single bloom on my scattered Zephyr Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes 'Labuffarosea'). There has certainly been no sudden change in temperature or moisture - nor even a a thickening of cloud cover. So not sure what inspired the bloom, but enjoyed it nonetheless (though would really like to see it after a rain shower!).

Also have one very late 'San Antonio Rose' Amaryllis (Hippeastrum 'San Antonio Rose') producing its two-flowered bloom stalk. Don't believe I've ever had one flower this far into summer.

New Plants in the Garden

This is the first summer for the two Pale Pavonia (Pavonia hastata) in my garden. Winter knocked one back to roots from which it is slowly recovering; while the other was damaged but has been able to produce a few of its white blooms.

Potted Plants

It must be happy as the Haworthia attenuata 'variegata' is producing its first bloom stalks. All three are long and sprawling with several white blossoms alternating down their length.

Indoor Plants

Four of the Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis sp.) are still going strong. The blooms have now lasted into their third month.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens and see what is blooming in other gardens.

Tillandsia Shows Red

2011-06-04T08:44:00.000-05:00

Back in mid-March, I attached my new Tillandsia ionantha 'Ron' (along with others) to a piece of driftwood. They have been sitting outside in the shade, receiving a weekly sprinkler dowsing and the occasional splash from the hose.

March 11, 2011

But recently, it has begun to put on considerable red coloration. Relying on online documentation (as Tillandsias are new to me), a change in coloration should be a precursor to blooming and subsequent pup production.

June 2, 2011

Will be quite interesting to see how this develops.

===========================================================

What a difference a night makes! Prior to publishing the post this morning, I discovered that the Tillandsia 'Ron' had bloomed overnight.

If true to form, it should pup afterwards - forming a small clump on that end of the wood. Wouldn't that be something!

Confused Rain Lilies

2011-06-02T17:39:00.000-05:00

My Pink Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes rosea) might be a bit confused. Hot, dry conditions continue with nary a hint of even the chance for a shower. No sudden deepening of the shade as a heavy cloud drifts into the area; no surprising temperature drop heralding at least a tease from a moisture-laden summer thunderhead.

But up pop a few pink Rain Lily blooms. Perhaps confusion. Perhaps a plea to the heavens. Perhaps a tease: "You wanna see more, then cry me some tears."

Casualties: Winter of 2010

2011-05-28T18:58:00.001-05:00

Since some of my plants tend to push the climatic zone limits, I will always have a few winter casualties. In terms of lengthy cold spells, the winter of 2010 was one of the more extreme I've experienced in central Texas. With over 60 hours of continuous temperatures in the teens, many plants got hammered back to the ground and several were not able to make it back in the spring.

Bronze Dyckia

Serious damage:

Dyckias: Dyckia brevifolia 'Moon Glow' & Red-leafed Dyckia (Dyckia 'Red Devil') certainly received some cold burns (of all the Dyckias, the Dyckia 'Cherry Coke' came out the best - receiving only minor damage)
Manfreda 'Macho Mocha' (Manfreda x Mangave 'Macho Mocha'): all four plants got severely set back; plants that were over two foot across are now recovering from sprouts
Soap Aloe (Aloe maculata): All but one of my large specimens got reduced to sprouts; and the one remaining large plant lost almost all its larger lower leaves.
One Pale Pavonia (Pavonia hastata) got knocked back to roots and is recovering very slowly; another planted just fifteen foot away came through with almost no damage - go figure.

Marilyn's Choice Abutilon

Deceased:

Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum): though primarily sold as a winter annual in these parts (disappearing with the heat), they couldn't handle our unusually low temperatures this winter and didn't even make it through winter
Dyckias: Pineapple Dyckia (Dyckia brevifolia), Dyckia platyphylla, two of three Bronze Dyckia (Dyckia fosteriana 'Bronze')

Dyckia platyphylla

The largest of my three Marilyn's Choice Abutilon
Salvia van houttei: I will miss its magenta blossoms.
One of seven Mexican Petunias (Ruellia tweediana 'Colobe Pink'): usually recovers from the roots but the cold got one of them
Transplanted Variegated Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon jaburan 'Vitattus'); but three that had been in the ground longer survived
Palm Grass (Setaria palmifolia): my one potted specimen never returned
Ground Orchid (Spathoglottis plicata): not surprising; a considerable gamble to leave two in the ground (still have my potted one)

Salvia van houttei

Planted in the Ground:

Bella Red Abutilon (Abutilon x hybridum 'Bella Red') & pink Bella Mix Abutilon: Two of the Mix & four of the Red; my single Bella Red survived the harsh winter with only a towel thrown in its direction - so hoping these others do as well.

Five Generation Plant

2011-05-24T17:07:00.000-05:00

To the best of my knowledge, there is only one plant in my garden that has been a pass-along for five generations. I have never known the exact species or hybrid name of this Crinum Lily - we have always simply referred to it as Grannie's Lily.

It could originally be found in the garden of Grandmother McGinnis, my wife's paternal great-great-grandmother who lived in Thalia, Texas. From there, some of its prodigy were passed along to Nanny, my wife's great-grandmother.

Its next stopping point was the yard of my wife's grandmother, Gran. It traveled from there to my wife's mother, MamaSam - where it has resided in her gardens both in Levelland, Texas and, eventually, here in Austin.

And finally, she passed them on to our garden where they have been growing and blooming for several years. Five generations: Grandmother McGinnis, Nanny, Gran, MamaSam, Reatta - traveling from near the Texas-Oklahoma border to Levelland to Austin (a path covering over 600 miles).

It has already gone through one set of blooms (strategically opening and fading between April's and May's GBBD - one would think it was camera shy).

But it often produces a second set of flower stalks and is doing so again this year (though I'm sure they will be gone long before June GBBD!).

The blooms fade rapidly, usually lasting only a couple of days. And this time can be shortened if hit by sprinkler systems or even rainfall (rumored to occur in these parts on occasion).

No other plant in my garden comes close to the long history of this lovely flower.

First Water Poppy Bloom of 2011

2011-05-22T18:07:00.000-05:00

The Water Poppy (Hydrocleys nymphoides) has returned from winter - growing quickly and almost completely covering the pond surface with its foliage. But this is its first bloom of the year. They last only a few days, but more will be forthcoming.

'San Antonio Rose' Amaryllis

2011-05-20T17:47:00.000-05:00

Though its vegetation is still sparse as it recovers from our winter's hard freeze, my 'San Antonio Rose' Amaryllis (Hippeastrum 'San Antonio Rose') is sending up a few bloom stalks - providing some much needed color.

Each stalk ends in two opposite facing flowers of bright red with white-green throats. A couple of stalks have already opened, with a couple more on the way.

After the flowers fade, the growth will thicken up as the season progresses, eventually forming clumps. The wide, strap-like leaves each have a reddish stripe on their underside. If winter temperatures stay in the 20s, the leaves will remain. Otherwise, it will lose most and have to recover.

Planted in the Ground

Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora): Added thirteen to the second tier of my Three Tiers bed. Hope to eventually border with Purple Shamrock.

Rain Lily: Zephyranthes

2011-05-18T16:19:00.000-05:00

Abbey of Down to Earth recently posted about her pink Rain Lilies; I told her I'd follow-up with how mine are looking so she could see the "bunch" into which her individual ones will hopefully grow!

Mine started out as six or less bulbs a few years back, and have even been moved a couple of times (usually leaving a straggler or two behind). Have never seen them develop seeds but they obviously produce additional bulbs.

My little patch was quite happy with the rain we had within the last week, and produced a nice collection of blooms. Some have faded, but some are still unopened - so the show should continue for at least the next few days.

I am no longer confident as to whether my Pink Rain Lilies are Zephyranthes rosea or if they are Zephyranthes grandiflora (if anyone knows how to definitively tell 'em apart, please let me know). But either way - they are nearly as much fun as a rainy day in central Texas!

Flower Power: GBBD May 2011

2011-05-15T11:58:00.000-05:00

On the fifteenth of every month, May Dream Gardens invites us to share the plants that are blooming in our gardens. Between the drought and high spring temperatures, many of my plants are either no longer blooming or are in the final stages.

Established Plants

A recent rain shower (thank goodness!) inspired the Pink Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes rosea) to produce a few blooms in celebration. The first wave is fading, but others are still on the way.

In last stages of its bloom period, the Dwarf Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides 'Radicans') still has a couple of its fragrant blossoms open. They tend not to last long outside, as they get snipped and brought inside so we can enjoy their perfume.

Likely to continue going strong all summer, the pond plant Aztec Arrowhead (Sagittaria montevidensis) is already on its second bloom stalk.

Fading in the heat, I'm hoping that a good shearing will help the Anthony Waterer Spirea (Spiraea x bumalda 'Anthony Waterer') to produce another wave of the magenta flower clusters.

Moved deeper into the shade, the Red Dragon Knoweed (Persicaria microcephala 'Red Dragon') seems to be quite happy. Time will tell as summer's heat has, in the past, made it look quite tired. I'm hoping the increased shade will help it out during those times.

Rock Rose (Pavonia lasiopetala), of course, can always be counted on to put on a show with its intensely pink blooms. It tends to get lanky in my shade, so I must remember to shear them back on occasion.

Some of the initial flowers of the West Texas Mist Flower (Conoclinium greggii) are looking tired, but this is just the first crest of a summer long purple wave.

They don't last long, but the blooms of the Crinum (species unknown) are quite eye-catching when at their peak. Already fading, it will sometimes produce a second wave of bloom stalks (here's hoping).

New Plants in the Garden

I am very pleased with the Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Alice' (Hydrangea quercifolia 'Alice') in its first spring in the shade. Though it only produced two clusters of long lasting flowers, it has almost doubled in size - so next years show looks quite promising.

This is as close to a "flower" as Sparkler Sedge (Carex phyllocephala 'Sparkler') will ever get, but it was fun to discover the inflorescence while looking about the garden.

Potted Plants

Though starting to fade, the flowers of the Orange Kaffir Lily (Clivia miniata) are still showing intense color that catches the eye.

The only rose that has at least survived in my shady garden, I have never known the exact name of this Old-fashioned Rose. It produces a few small blooms throughout the summer.

A pass-along from Robin (Getting Grounded) that I over-wintered inside, the Bleeding Heart Vine (Clerodendrum thomsoniae) has not grown much yet. But it has still been able to produce a small group of blooms.

Indoor Plants

Still going strong, the flowers of the Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis sp.) just seem to last forever. The first couple of pictures are from plants that are just now opening their flower buds. But the others have been putting on a show for over a month.

Tardies

Hit hard by this winter's extremes, only a single flower stalk is rising from the recovering Lily of the Nile (Agapanthus africanus).

Also recovering from the lengthy winter freezes, the Amaryllis 'San Antonio Rose' (Hippeastrum 'San Antonio Rose') are nonetheless producing several flower stalks. Soon the red blooms will add color to this area of the garden.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens to see what is blooming in other gardens.

Planted in the Ground:

Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora): Already had several on the left side of my front beds; finally got around to adding thirteen to the right side.

Been A While

2011-05-08T09:27:00.000-05:00

Time in the April garden seemed to sneak by without me. Except for snipping Live Oak root sprouts, my activity during this typically nice gardening period was limited. A busy personal schedule, drought conditions and early high temperatures conspired to keep me from accomplishing much - both in the yard and in the blog.

But there have been some stirrings in the garden. Recent minor rains at least got the Pink Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes rosea) perked up. A single specimen produced a nice blossom...

...with a larger patch holding the promise of additional blooms.

Planted in February, the Wall Iris (Iris tectorum) started producing its exotic blooms. However, the flower stalks tend to sprawl - falling off to the side. Thus the blooms are not visible unless standing directly beside the plant.

A couple of potted plants are showing some color. The Orange Kaffir Lily (Clivia miniata) has been pretty reliable - producing a stalk of brilliant orange blooms every year.

My only "typical" cactus, the Peanut Cactus (Echinopsis chamaecereus) is topped by a single red flower. The bloom does not last long, and only occurs sporadically - so its always a nice surprise when it blossoms.

Nearly a month before, during a tour of Pam Penick's garden (of Digging fame), I saw her Pittosporum Creme De Mint (Pittosporum tobira 'Shima') had already started producing significant new foliage. Needless to say, my worry level skyrocketed - as mine was just sitting there. And continued to do so as the weeks crept past. But with a sigh of relief, I can report that mine finally started producing bright green new growth.

After a brief respite, temperatures are again climbing. The drought continues. And the garden persists.

Unpop Goes The Greenhouse

2011-04-20T17:49:00.001-05:00

A few weeks back, I decided it was time to take down and store my pop-up greenhouse. It did its job well over the winter, keeping the plants alive during our extended freezes. Putting it up had not been too difficult. But past experience has shown that its easy to get the toothpaste out of the tube, but tricky to get it all back inside.

The instruction page showed a little elderly lady deftly snapping the collapsed greenhouse about and easily placing it back into its little tote. Sadly, after spending much time searching through everything that came with the greenhouse, I was unable to locate the lady - so I must conclude she was not included and that I'd have to get the structure back into its bag on my own (darn).

Emptied of all its plants, I quickly pulled up the stakes. Next the shade cover (think I'll do without that next winter) was removed and folded (i.e. wadded) up.

The top and side poles came out rather easily. The top one was tight to get in, and still tight to get out - but not terribly hard. The poles pulled apart and stored easily.

Having worked with tents, I figured I'd be smart and leave the doors slightly unzipped to prevent the structure from holding air as I collapsed it down. Of course, I then realized - duh - it ain't got no floor. Well, I guess there's not any danger of a giant air bubble then.

Spent some time studying the instruction's pictures and words - which seemed to make sense initially, but started making less as I tried to actually implement them - but it basically worked as they said: bend this end over there, form a taco shell, then collapse it in on itself. And by golly, it actually worked (still would have preferred to have the elderly lady taking care of it). The whole structure slipped back into its tote with considerably less effort than putting a rolled-up tent back into its bag.

Safely back in its tote (along with the shade cloth, poles & stakes), the pop-up greenhouse is heading to storage where it will wait until freezes once again come calling.

Foliage Follow-up: April 2011

2011-04-16T17:31:00.000-05:00

On the sixteenth of every month, Digging invites us to join her in celebrating the leafy aspects of our garden by participating in Foliage Follow-up. With temperatures soaring, central Texas plants have certainly shaken off winter's doldrums and growth is happening everywhere.

I thought I'd highlight one of the more rampant foliar aspects of my garden - a groundcover that can be found in almost every one of my beds. It is a native plant that initially appears as a few widely spaced plants, sprouting here and there.

But its amazing trait is that if simply ignored, it will quickly produce a thick verdant cover completely crowding out all your other garden plants. Though squirrels have been known to bury the occasional seed, these individual plants are nothing compared to the creeping wonder that readily sprouts from the roots of the adult plant.

Unfortunately, to produce truly amazing beds of this plant, they must develop naturally from the roots of the much larger adult plant. You can plant an adult specimen, but will likely have to wait for decades to get the full benefit of its ground cover.

Yes, I'm describing the wondrous Live Oak (Quercus virginiana). The adult trees naturally shade out almost all other plants, and quickly suck moisture from the soil, thereby depriving it from other more tender plants. This "bare" area, of course, cries out to the gardener to fill it with exotic and beautiful plants - never understanding that if they are just patient (or even if they are not), soon root sprouts will appear.

And if the gardener is distracted for a few moments, they will explode into luxuriant growth and quickly bury all those costly and lovingly tended plants - quickly making them obsolete.

Sigh...where are my pruners? Looks like a long day of snipping.

Flower Power: GBBD April 2011

2011-04-15T15:17:00.000-05:00

On the fifteenth of every month, May Dream Gardens invites us to share postings showing the flowers that are presently being found in our gardens. This year, my shady garden had more blooms than ever for spring. Gulf Coast Penstemon, Texas Betony and Texas Gold Columbine even produced swaths of color in certain areas (a first for me - typically one must crawl on hands and knees to spot the tiny blossoms found in my dappled light). By now, many have faded in our above-average heat, but I'm still enjoying the show.

Established Plants

I was surprised to discover the Aztec Arrowhead (Sagittaria montevidensis) already had a bloom stalk developing. The first of its flowers are just opening, but it will continue growing upwards and producing additional blossoms - as well as additional stalks appearing sporadically.

There are two aspects of Cedar Sage (Salvia roemeriana) that I really enjoy: the intense red coloration of its blooms and the way it sprouts from small crevices in my stone walkway. Eventually the plant will loose its blooms and the foliage will become unattractive, but by then its seeds will have found their way into some other crack amongst the rock - and be ready to surprise me again next spring.

More than ever before, the Chinese Indigo (Indigofera kirilowii) is covered in the dangling, pink blossom clusters that it produces.

The blooms of the Gulf Coast Penstemon (Penstemon tenuis) have begun to fade, but for several weeks it has filled a section of the garden with its pale lavender color.

Strawberry Geranium (Saxifraga stolonifera) are just beginning to send up their diminutive bloom stalks topped with its clusters of minuscule blossoms. I have always enjoyed the intricacy of its quarter-inch flowers.

The intense color of the Pink Shamrock (Oxalis crassipes 'Rosea') flowers really stands out in the dappled shade. Though Oxalis can be considered invasive, I have found this variety to be well-behaved. Too much so in fact - as I will likely have to purchase more to add as it has not spread at all.

The Amaryllis (Hippeastrum sp.) in my garden are scattered about in small numbers - but all of them are either producing large red blossoms or have bloom stalks shooting skyward.

Last fall I moved the struggling White Margin Snow Rose (Serissa foetida 'Improved') deeper into the shade. It is still struggling (our ongoing drought is making things difficult for it), but still managed to produce some scattered white blooms amongst its variegated foliage.

Texas Gold Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinckleyana) is nearing the end of its flower season - but at its peak the top of my backyard path was highlighted by a large, waving area of bright yellow.

Texas Betony (Stachys coccinea) is also highlighting nice sections of my garden with its sprawling stems of dusky red flowers.

Both the fragrance and blooms of the Banana Shrub (Michelia figo) are fading - but a few flowers can still be found amongst its shiny, ligustrum-like leaves.

Most of my Ajuga blooms have faded, but the Burgundy Glow Ajuga (Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow') appears to have just started. Though set back from our severe winter, it certainly can still catch one's attention with its short stalks of purple blooms.

Returning from roots, the Purple Oxalis (Oxalis triangularis subsp. papilionaceae 'Atropurpurea') is putting out several cascading clusters of pale blooms. The flowers look especially nice against the plant's dark purple foliage.

New Plants in the Garden

Recommended by Central Texas Gardener, I added the dwarf Bella Red Abutilon (Abutilon x hybridum 'Bella Red') to the garden last year. After receiving at least some cover for its first winter, the plant responded by retaining much of its foliage and has started spring off with numerous blooms. Unlike my other Abutilons, this variety appears to open its blossoms wide - though they do still tend to face downwards.

Planted less than a month ago, Trailing Violet (Viola banksii) was still able to produce a couple of flowers. The blooms really do stand out in the shade. If it handles the summer heat and spreads as reported, it could produce quiet the show next spring.

Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Alice' (Hydrangea quercifolia 'Alice') has added quite a bit of new foliage in its first spring, and is just beginning to unfurl a couple of flower clusters.

Lyreleaf Sage (Salvia lyrata) is nearly done blooming, but it made a nice little patch of color near the garden path. Though this was its first heavy bloom cycle, the few blooms it had in the fall must have scattered its seeds well - for I have seen some of its offspring sprouting from the ground, yards away.

Potted Plants

'Mrs. Pollock' Geranium (Pelargonium x hortorum 'Mrs. Pollock') has incredible foliage, but it has also been producing small clusters of bright red flowers - so my shade is getting the best of both!

Originally planted in the ground where winter hammered it, I moved my Star Begonia (Begonia heracleifolia) into a pot last fall and babied it over the winter (good thing with the severe cold we had this winter!). It has rewarded that move by producing stalks of pale pink blooms.

Indoor Plants

The only flowering plants that I have ever kept indoors are the Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis sp.) - they live happily near a southern widow where they receive dappled shade (as does pretty much everything in my garden!). The blooms last so long, and the plants are pretty reliable in producing stalks every year.

Flower Wannabes

The slate blue berries of the Mahonia (Mahonia aquifolium) will eventually be eaten up by Mockingbirds - but for now they are attractive counterpoints to the dark green, spiky leaves.

Dwarf Buford Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii Nana') completed its early bloom cycle, and is well on its way to this fall's berry crop. Some stems have both the old and the new.

Sitting atop an empty Lyreleaf Sage bloom stalk, this ladybug seemed to want to participate in the color celebration.

Tardies

Only a few inches long, the bloom stalk of from my Aloe 'Doran Black' is just starting to grow. Soon I'll need to stalk it as it tends to grow quite thin and over a foot tall before the blooms begin to open - makng it susceptible to the slightest breeze.

Silver Squill (Ledebouria socialis) dangles loose clusters of soon-to-be flowers all about. Once open, the bees will swarm to it and the flowers will produce several seeds. Last year, as an experiment, I was able to easily germinate them and presently have a few of its young growing rapidly.

Not all the indoor Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis sp.) were able to get their blooms ready in time. At least a few of my plants are in the early stages of developing their flower stalk - hopefully this will keep the house filled with color for months to come.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens to see all the spring blooms that other garden bloggers are sharing.

A Hint Of Banana

2011-03-26T19:53:00.000-05:00

While working in the garden, when the breeze blows just so, I'll catch the faintest whiff of fragrance. It always takes me a moment to determine that the Banana Shrub (Michelia figo) is in bloom again. Approaching almost ten foot tall with a loose structure, it has several open flowers with many more maturing buds.

The fragrance does not carry far, so it always seems to just tease you with its perfume. Coming close and actually placing one's nose near the flower will give you a blast of its banana scent.

The blooms are small and rather inconspicuous. They stay open for a few days, then fade.

The blossoms open a creamy white, then slowly change to a soft yellow as they age. Eventually, one by one, the petals will fall and the scent will disappear.

But for now, as I find myself bent to some garden chore, a soft breeze will pick up the scent and carry it to me. It always makes me stop and smile. It reminds me to sit back, to look about and see the surrounding nature...and allow the garden to refresh me.

Tulip Time

2011-03-24T20:06:00.000-05:00

For the last couple of weeks, it's been Tulip Time. I only have about a dozen bulbs of the Lady Tulips (Tulipa clusiana), but they are all putting on a nice show.

There was no cultivar name for those I planted last year, but their bright colors makes me confident that they are 'Chrysantha'. I really like the vibrant yellow and darker red of the blooms, plus the blue-green foliage is really nice (pictures do not accurately portray their true color). Add that to the fact that they have increased in number since last year and re-bloomed just as vigorously, and I'm thinking its a keeper.

This year's planting were of the the 'Cynthia' cultivar (Tulipa clusiana 'Cynthia'). Though nice, they lack the nice foliar color and the blooms tend more towards a pastel shade. They also tend to grow a little taller, and this causes them to be a little floppier.

A good contrast between the yellow shades can be seen in the pictures below. Cynthia is on the left, Chrysantha on the right.

With our March temperatures averaging about ten degrees above normal, the tulips blooms are fading in the heat. But I have certainly enjoyed their flash of color over the last weeks.

Planted in the Ground:

Sempervivum sp.: Two unidentified varieties went into my succulent bed; if anyone knows the specific species or cultivar names, please let me know.

Planted in Pots:

Solenostemon sp.: Yet another unidentified cultivar; placed into the same pot as my croton - thought it would add some matching color below the upper foliage.

Formosa Red Azalea

2011-03-19T18:15:00.001-05:00

A little over a year ago, I planted a Formosa Red Azalea (Azalea indica 'Formosa Red') in the largest container I owned. This was how it appeared on February 27, 2010

And as of today, it has added quite a bit of growth and is full of intensely pink blooms.

It should continue to add growth over the next few years (as it can reach over 6 foot high and wide). I certainly will be looking forward to the show in the years to come.

Planted in the Ground:

Basil varieties: Sweet, Spicy Globe, Thai & Boxwood - all in my utility garden area where there is a bit more sun

Spring Emergence: 2011

2011-03-18T14:53:00.004-05:00

In keeping with the diary aspects of my blog, I decided I needed to monitor the dates when leaves finally emerged from my different plants. This way, in the future, I can know if my worries have cause when a particular plant seems to be taking a long time to leaf out (taking into account yearly weather variations). Will have to update the post as I discover other plants producing green (and some of the listed early dates are "best guesses" as I came up with the idea a little late - story of my life!).

2/13:
Lady Tulip (Tulipa clusiana)
Lady Tulip 'Cynthia' (Tulipa clusiana 'Cynthia')
Spanish Bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica)

2/18:
Toad Lily (Tricyrtis lasiocarpa)
Southern Wood Fern (Dryopteris normalis)

2/21:

Anthony Waterer Spirea - from stems (Spiraea x bumalda 'Anthony Waterer')

Amaryllis (Hippeastrum sp.)

Aztec Arrowhead (Sagittaria montevidensis)

2/25:

Goldmound Spirea - from stems (Spiraea japonica 'Goldmound')

Red Dragon Knoweed (Persicaria microcephala 'Red Dragon')

2/27:

Possumhaw (Ilex decidua)

Crimson Queen Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum var. dissectum 'Crimson Queen')

Chinese Indigo (Indigofera kirilowii)

Texas Betony (Stachys coccinea)

Cedar Sage (Salvia roemeriana)

3/2:

Marilyn's Choice Abutilon

West Texas Mist Flower (Conoclinium greggii)

3/5:

Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyersii')

Mexican Petunias - from roots (Ruellia tweediana 'Colobe Pink')

Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Alice' (Hydrangea quercifolia 'Alice')

3/7:

Dwarf Beautyberry - from stems (Callicarpa dichotoma)

Variegated Abutilon - from roots (Abutilon pictum 'Thompsonii')

3/8:

Mexican Buckeye (Ungnadia speciosa)
Blue Anise Sage - from roots (Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue')

3/9:

American Beautyberry - from roots (Callicarpa americana)

3/10:

Australian Sword Fern (Nephrolepis obliterata 'Kimberly Queen')

3/14:

Philippine Violet - from roots (Barleria cristata)

Forsythia Sage - from roots (Salvia madrensis)

3/15:

Hosta 'Gold Standard'

Variegated Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon jaburan 'Vitattus')

American Beautyberry - from stems (Callicarpa americana)

3/16:

Mountain Sage - from stems (Salvia regla)

Dwarf Barbados Cherry - from stems (Malphigia glabra)

3/18:
Dwarf Mexican Firebush - from roots (Hamelia patens 'Compacta')
Chile Petin - from roots (Capsicum annuum var. aviculare)
Hosta 'Shade Fanfare'
Variegated Flax Lily (Dianella tasmanica 'Variegata')

3/21:
'Ragin Cajun' Ruellia (Ruellia elegans 'Ragin' Cajun')

3/23:
Milky Way Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra lurida 'Milky Way')

Foliage Follow-up: March 2011

2011-03-16T10:25:00.000-05:00

Digging hosts Foliage Follow-up on the sixteenth of every month so that the foliar aspects of our garden have their chance to shine. For this posting, I decided to concentrate on some of the more recent additions to my garden.

Planted last fall, this will be the first spring for the Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Alice' (Hydrangea quercifolia 'Alice'). It never completely lost all of its leaves, but is certainly putting out plenty of new growth.

Crimson Queen Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum var. dissectum 'Crimson Queen') is the first Maple I have ever tried planting directly into the ground. Its unfolding red leaves are very nice; I hope it establishes itself.

When purchased, this Manfreda didn't have a species name. It died back completely in winter, but is now emerging with nicely spotted foliage. Suspect it might be a Rattlesnake Agave (Manfreda maculosa), but I think it may grow a little larger than is the norm for that variety (if anyone can identify, please let me know).

The foliage of the Coral Bells 'Caramel' (Heuchera villosa 'Caramel') has a wide range of shades - from green to red. The new growth has the redder colors whereas the older leaves stay green. Very impressive coloration.

Have always enjoyed the strongly-patterned initial leaf coloration of the Lyreleaf Sage (Salvia lyrata). It eventually tends to fade back towards a solid green, but that first production of leaves is very nice.

With a diminutive bloom at its center, the Red Billbergia's (Billbergia sp. 'Red') foliage is the primary reason to add it to one's garden.

Be sure to visit Digging to see other Foliage Follow-up postings.

Flower Power: GBBD March 2011

2011-03-15T10:16:00.000-05:00

On the fifteenth of every month, May Dream Gardens sponsors Garden Blogger's Bloom Day where we get to document which plants are blooming in our gardens. Though I have several pictures, in reality the flowers are just beginning to appear - and to see the majority of them, you have to get up close & personal with the plant. But it certainly holds promise for the coming month.

Established Plants

Missouri Violet (Viola missouriensis) has started to produce a few tiny blossoms.

Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis) has a few buds, but only one flower has opened.

Pink Shamrock (Oxalis crassipes 'Rosea') has just begun to show a few blooms.

Chocolate Chip Ajuga (Ajuga reptans 'Valfredda') flowers spikes are just beginning to rise, presently most are under a half inch in height.

With only a couple of bloom stalks rising up, the Catlin's Giant Ajuga (Ajuga reptans 'Catlin's Giant') is at its very initial bloom stages.

Reifler's Dwarf Viburnum (Viburnum obovatum 'Reifler Dwarf') only has a couple of florets - I'm hoping more are coming, but I am unable to locate any.

The blooms of the Dwarf Buford Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii Nana') are inconspicuous (though not to bees!), but hold the promise of red berries for the next winter.

Though damaged by our extreme winter, the surviving Friendship Plants (Billbergia nutans) have produced a few flowers.

New Plants in the Garden

Purchased and planted already in bloom, the Gopher Plant (Euphorbia rigida) shows off its bright yellow colors.

Potted Plants

Pulled out from winter storage, the Ox Tongue (Gasteria liliputana) surprised me by already being in bloom.

The one Ground Orchid (Spathoglottis plicata) that started blooming prior to the winter and was brought inside for protection, has kept its flowers throughout.

Covered in flower buds, the Formosa Red Azalea (Azalea indica 'Formosa Red') only has a couple of blooms presently open - but it holds the promise for quite a show in the not-so-distant future.

Indoor Plants

Almost all of my Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis sp.) are either in bloom or producing bloom stalks.

Flower Wannabes

Beloved by Mockingbirds, the Mahonia (Mahonia aquifolium) berries are slowly ripening.

Berries of the Nandina (Nandina domestica) seem to last forever, their vibrant red colors brightening the garden.

Almost hidden from view, the black berries of the Liriope (Liriope spicata) shimmer when the sunlight reaches them.

As the leaves of the Possumhaw (Ilex decidua) begin to sprout and grow, its berries are slowly getting hidden away amongst the foliage - though the birds will certainly be hunting them.

Dwarf Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Rotunda') berries have started to fade, but a few still decorate the spiny leaves.

Tardies

Lady Tulips (Tulipa clusiana) flower buds have begun to rise from the ground, but none of mine have opened.

My Texas Betony (Stachys coccinea) have several flower buds at their branch tips, but none have produced their bright red flowers yet.

The recently added 'Mrs. Pollock' Geranium (Pelargonium x hortorum 'Mrs. Pollock') has yet to open a flower, though a few bloom stalks have risen.

Looking like some brightly-colored horror picture monster, the Texas Gold Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinckleyana) has several flowers that have not quite opened.

This will be the first spring for my Mexican Buckeye (Ungnadia speciosa) - so I'm hoping the hint of reddish color on the stems is the beginning of its beautiful bloom cycle.

After being severely trimmed back, the old-fashioned Rose (species unknown) has responded by putting out a lot of growth - most new shoots ending in an unopened flower bud.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens to see what is blooming in gardens around the world.

New Plant Variety of 2011

2011-03-11T18:58:00.000-06:00

It seems that with each new year in the garden, a group of plants I have never tried before captures my attention. For 2011, it appears that the group will be the Tillandsias. This genera exhibits incredible diversity in size, shape and form. I'm not confident that they would be able to withstand our winters, so they'll be outdoors for most of the year, but spend time inside during the cold. Information on their care can be found both at Plant Oddities and at Air Plants.

Sounds like most varieties should avoid direct sunlight - I can certainly provide shade. They prefer humid conditions with frequent watering - hmm, pretty humid here most of the time, but may require me to spray the hose in their direction more often than is my norm (will have to watch that). Seems like they like good air circulation - this might be the hardest to provide; once summer arrives, the few breezes that make it through the trees and the fence tend to lessen. Will have to position them as best I can to provide some air movement.

Since they are epiphytes, they can be attached to pretty much anything (as long as it doesn't hold water; though they like moisture, they don't like sitting in it). I actually used Liquid Nails to affix mine to a couple pieces of old wood (Liquid Nails dries to a white color; would have preferred clear - though plant should hide).

I started with five plants of four varieties. Not sure if I'll be getting any more, but once a plant group has my attention, they become hard to resist (and there is space on that larger piece of wood...and I have already snagged another gnarly piece of wood - and there are so many more tempting cultivars...).

Tillandsia ionantha 'Ron': This is the only variety for which I purchased two

(how could I refuse a cultivar named 'Ron'!).

Tillandsia ionantha 'Fuego': This is the only one showing some color; online research

indicates that Tillandsias change leaf color as they begin to bloom.

Tillandsia ionantha 'Rosita': Many of the Tillandsias also form clumps, so though it may look lonely

in its mounted location, it will hopefully pup and form a small colony.

Tillandsia jucunda: This was the largest specimen and the only one already in bloom.

From what I can gather, pupping usually follows blooming.

Will have to find the right spot in the garden so the plants can be appreciated. They are small but, combined with interesting pieces of wood, they still capture ones attention.

New Plant Variety of 2010: Status

2011-03-08T20:08:00.003-06:00

Each season seems to bring a fascination with a new genera of plants that are unfamiliar to my garden. For 2010, it was the Dyckias. Its now time to see how these plants performed.

The plants had been doing very well, right up until our severe winter (below freezing temperatures for 60+ straight hours - extremely unusual for central Texas). Though the plants received some protection (mainly covering but no light-based heat source), all were damaged to varying degrees. Some likely are a loss, some may survive through pups. Others lost some leaves but look to be recovering.

Pineapple Dyckia (Dyckia brevifolia): Assumed lost (hey - it looks just like some of my Aloes - grumble, grumble).

Dyckia platyphylla: The main plant is a loss; but there do appear to be a few pups surviving.

Bronze Dyckia (Dyckia fosteriana 'Bronze'): All three show extensive damage, but some green remains. Will have to wait and see if they can recover. And to think, it even bloomed last year.

Dyckia brevifolia 'Moon Glow': Definite damage to some of the larger, upper rosettes. But some of the lower appear to have escaped largely unscathed.

Dyckia 'Cherry Coke': Also showing considerable damage on some leaves, but the centers appear to be good - may even be producing some new growth.

Red-leafed Dyckia (Dyckia 'Red Devil'): Though it lost a few of the lower leaves (due to a combination of the cold and some physical damage from tree limb removal), it is definitely producing new growth.

I also had potted two dyckia varieties: Dyckia choristaminea 'Frazzle Dazzle' & Red-leafed Dyckia; obviously both of these were inside and thus escaped damage.

Though the past winter was an exception (one hopes!), it appears that it would be best to either plant the Dyckias into pots or to concentrate them into a bed for which I could provide a light-based heat source for the rare (one hopes!) winter extremes.

Planted in the Ground:

Trailing Violet (Viola banksii): Actually bought five 4" pots that were overflowing almost a month ago, then right before I was going to plant them, we had some more freezes roll in; so I waited - and promptly let four of the five dry out (grumble). So planted the remaining good one while two remain in their pots & are starting to recover (the other two may be a loss).
Gopher Plant (Euphorbia rigida): Has been on my 'Gotta Get' list; decided to only get one and see how it does.
New Guinea Impatiens (Impatiens x hawkeri): Bought on sale before winter and babied inside through the winter; cut them back severely and placed into yard

Planted in Pots:

Coleus 'Pineapple' (Solenostemon scutellarioides 'Pineapple'): The bright yellow leaves with their small maroon highlights quickly caught my attention; planted them into the large pot that contains my Formosa Red Azalea (Azalea indica 'Formosa Red'); hoping they fill in nicely underneath.

Shady Happenings: Late February

2011-02-27T20:06:00.001-06:00

I have been slowly removing and trimming back remnants of this winter's damage. Cast Iron Plants (Aspidistra elatior) are tough, but there is always some damage even during milder winters. But our unusually extreme cold snap seems to have hit the Milky Way Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra lurida 'Milky Way') even harder. I had to trim away almost all its leaves, though it should grow back just fine.

One of the aspects that I enjoy about the Red Dragon Knotweed (Persicaria microcephala 'Red Dragon') is the coloration of its new growth when it emerges in spring. The two-toned deep burgundy color is very attractive.

I overwintered two Gold Dust Plants (Aucuba japonica 'Variegata') in nursery pots as I have not yet determined exactly where I want them in the garden. Both ended up doing something I had never seen before: they're blooming! They have clusters of tiny green and reddish-brown flowers.

Another plant that I rarely see bloom, but is currently doing so, is the Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina). Kept in the pop-up greenhouse over the winter, its little lavender flowers make its relationship to the yard's spiderworts quite obvious.

Have also been doing some planting of recent purchases. Though likely it will want more sunshine than I can provide, I couldn't pass up the amazing foliage of the 'Mrs. Pollock' Geranium (Pelargonium x hortorum 'Mrs. Pollock'). Even if the plant, due to insufficient light, never produces any blooms, I'll be pleased if it just produces leaves!

Another new plant added to the garden is Red Billbergia (Billbergia sp. 'Red'). In the past, I have enjoyed my Friendship Plants (Billbergia nutans) though this past hard winter certainly caused them some serious damage. But if this Billbergia, with its attractive reddish foliage, can do as well - then I'll be quite happy.

Planted in the Ground

Rosemary 'Lockwood de Forest' (Rosmarinus officinalis 'Lockwood de Forest'): Planted in the utility side of the garden where a fallen tree opened the canopy; though wasn't enough sunshine for a Rose to make it there. Here's hoping a Rosemary can.
Seeds of Dill, Parsley & Thyme

We Have Discovered Life

2011-02-21T19:28:00.000-06:00

One thing about viewing the cold-crisped, brown landscape from my window, one only sees the wider view. But with time and warmer weather permitting, I've been able to get out in the garden and start trimming away some of the winter damage. And this closer view allowed for the discovery of new green growth.

Spanish Bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica) have been popping out the ground and growing fast. Hope they set some blooms this year.

Lady Tulips (Tulipa clusiana) did well last year and this year the number of sprouts has increased (I really like their blue-green color). Hope I have even more of their lovely flowers,

Toad Lily (Tricyrtis lasiocarpa) have begun to emerge. The potted one has added over a foot of growth already, but the ground-bound plants are just now emerging.

Missouri Violet (Viola missouriensis) got seriously beat up by tree trimmers and their subsequent brush removal. But new tiny leaves are appearing.

Texas Gold Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinckleyana) came through the long freeze fairly well, and now its even putting out plenty of new leaves.

Southern Wood Fern (Dryopteris normalis) is relatively new to my garden. As expected, the fronds got freeze-dried. But tiny (only about a quarter inch) fiddleheads are sprouting from the leaf litter.

Sparkler Sedge (Carex phyllocephala 'Sparkler') is another plant that handled the winter quite well. It too is already putting out new growth.

Even though in a fairly shady area, the Anthony Waterer Spirea (Spiraea x bumalda 'Anthony Waterer') is already putting out new leaves. Just three feet away and receiving more sunlight, the Goldmound Spirea (Spiraea japonica 'Goldmound') has yet to make a showing.

Though the entire pond was covered with a sheet of ice for several days, it didn't take the Aztec Arrowhead (Sagittaria montevidensis) long to send up its first leaf.

Several of my scattered Amaryllis (Hippeastrum sp.) have already sprouted the beginnings of their strap-like foliage.

Two of the three Friendship Plants (Billbergia nutans) were left uncovered and may be a loss. But one, due to its location near some Aloes, got some cover. Though also damaged, it is rewarding this extra attention by already starting to produce some bloom stalks.

Though still early, hints of spring are certainly in the air...and in the plants.

Confessions of a New Garden Blogger

2011-02-19T11:35:00.003-06:00

A little over a year ago, on February 16, 2010, I wrote my very first blog posting for The Lazy Shady Gardener. This was all unexplored and unknown territory for me as just a month earlier, I had never even read a blog posting of any kind. As the year progressed and my journey continued, I jotted down several facets of garden blogging that crossed my mind.

Learning

Etiquette: Initially I didn't know what the accepted protocols were for any aspect of blogging. Should you reply back to every comment or only to questions? It appears some reply back to all, and some don't reply to any. I certainly didn't want to accidentally be rude to someone. This is but one example of the questions I had, and there seemed to be no source for ready answers. Eventually, it occurred to me that one should simply go with what one felt comfortable doing - and hope that visitors would understand.
Blotanical: This one site likely had the greatest initial impact on my garden blogging experience. Without it, I'm not sure I would have as easily discovered my local gardening community or would have developed the contacts that have guided me in my endeavors. Though I have utilized its aspects less as the year progressed, its impact in the beginning can not be overtstated.
Photography: My initial garden blog postings tended to be predominantly text, typically accompanied by small photographs. But after viewing many other blogs, and examining ones I highly respected, it quickly became apparent that a picture really is worth a thousand words. I concluded that a garden blog without pictures is like a garden without flowers - visitors want the shared information, but they also need to see.
Memes: I did not even know that scheduled blog activities (Garden Blogger's Bloom Day, Foliage Follow-up, Picture This, etc.) existed until I saw them on other people's garden blogs. I quickly found that I had to be selective in my participation as these activities could easily consume my entire blogging energy. But the one discovery that participation brought to me was the way these activities helped one to "see" their garden; to actually view it through a fresh set of eyes. (A good list of garden-related memes can be found at Gardening Gone Wild: Memes and Contests for Garden Bloggers)

Fears

Inadequacy: When I started blogging, I also started reading other garden blogs - and this quickly led me to wonder: What the hell am I doing wrong? It seemed that everyone's garden was magnificent, and the gardeners so knowledgeable. Even their blogs looked snazzy. Everything about my gardening experience seemed dull & shoddy in comparison. It is easy to quickly become intimidated and overwhelmed when one begins a garden blog.
Vulnerability: Posting one's trials and tribulations for all to read, and showing pictures of one's garden certainly makes one feel "exposed". When I view my garden, my eyes tend to gravitate to the empty spaces, the struggling plants, the work not yet completed. And now I'm supposed to post pictures of this for all to see? Garden blogging requires that one allow oneself to be vulnerable to the eyes and opinions of others - and that is no easy task.

Benefits

Discovery: Blogging has allowed me to see what others are thinking & doing, to see their creativity and design. Because of this, I have been able to look at my own garden areas with fresh eyes and new ideas. None of us can think of everything. And we certainly don't have time to be reinventing the wheel. Participating in the garden blogging community has helped me to expand boundaries and overcome obstacles.
Sharing: I am no longer alone. When I have a problem, there are individuals out there who can point me to the solution. When I can't identify a plant, another will readily provide not only its name but information about its cultivation. Nearby gardeners (discovered through their blogs) have shared information about nursery sales, provided tours of their gardens and gifted me with pass-along plants. The camaraderie I have discovered through garden blogging has made the entire gardening experience even more enjoyable.

Purpose

Responsibility: Oh my goodness...people that are not even related to me are reading my garden blog. What do they want, why are they here, who are these people? Discovering that your blog has followers is quite inspiring. And eventually, you begin to feel a responsibility to them, to provide something of value for the time they take in visiting your postings. It is, of course, a balancing act as blogging is likely not the only responsibility with which one is dealing. But once your blog has followers (even just a few), one feels pressure to produce.
Reason: At times, that responsibility can take what was initially an enjoyable activity and turn it into a tiresome chore. And that is when one needs to revisit the primary purpose which led them to garden blogging. What was it that drove the blogger to begin? I think it is important that we occasionally return to that question. For me, it was primarily a digital method for replacing my hand-written gardening notebooks - which never seemed to quite work because they were always so hard to search. It has, of course, evolved beyond that - but at its heart, it is as the banner says: a diary of my shady garden.

Everyone's blogging journey is uniquely their own. Each will have experienced their own lessons and challenges. On my blogging anniversary, I wanted to share those that had impacted me the most during this first year. And I'd love to hear what you have discovered as you've traveled along your own path.

Planted in the Ground:

Wall Iris (Iris tectorum): Was on my Gotta Get list; planted a one-gallon and two 4"; have an additional two 4" that I'm holding on to as possible replacements for my Ground Orchids (Spathoglottis plicata) (just in case they don't recover from the winter's extreme lows)
Crimson Queen Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum var. dissectum 'Crimson Queen'): This will be my second attempt at a Japanese Maple and my first at planting one in the ground. Had decided that they were too much trouble for my garden, but after seeing pictures of them in other Austin gardens - I just had to try again.

Foliage Follow-up: February 2011

2011-02-16T16:35:00.002-06:00

The sixteenth of every month gives us the chance, through the Digging blog, to show off the leafy aspects of our gardens by participating in Foliage Follow-up. After 60+ straight hours of below freezing temperatures (extremely unusual for central Texas), my foliage is feeling the pain.

The Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) couldn't stand up to the extended cold. All of them are cold-burnt husks of their former selves.

The leaves of the Dwarf Barbados Cherry (Malphigia glabra) suffered during last winter's 18 degree lows; so it didn't fare any better during this winter's 17 degree low.

Where once the leaves of my several Lily of the Nile (Agapanthus africanus) created green waves, I now have a flattened mass of pale yellow.

Initially looking as if it had only suffered minor damage, the unprotected Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyersii') has turned a rather lovely tan shade. Though I certainly hope it returns from its roots to its former green glory, I'm presently enjoying its brownish cast.

Of course, one of the harder hit plants was the Soap Aloe (Aloe maculata). Though it looks like at least a few have hardy pups, the large specimens have all begun to melt away from exposure to the severe cold.

Long ago, I actually planted some Australian Sword Fern (Nephrolepis obliterata 'Kimberly Queen') out in the ground. Inevitably, it always gets knocked back to the ground but returns the next spring, putting out a few scattered fronds here and there. Then winter returns and once again turns its fronds a brownish hue.

But not all is decaying. Amongst the leaf litter I discovered some sprouts from the Spanish Bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica). They had originally been planted into a pot, where all they did was produce foliage. I took them out of the pot and hung on to them over the summer and eventually put them into the ground - believing they were likely no longer viable. But some of them are coming up!

And the first of my Lady Tulips (Tulipa clusiana) has broken ground, just beginning its growth up towards the sunshine. This will be its second spring in my garden, so I'm very interested to see if they bloom as well as they did last year.

Be sure to visit Digging to see what leafy delights can be found in other gardens.

Flower Power: GBBD February 2011

2011-02-15T15:28:00.001-06:00

On the fifteenth of every month, May Dream Gardens gives us the opportunity to share the plants that are blooming in our gardens. February looks to be a very bleak month for my shady garden. None of my ground-bound plants are actually in bloom, but color can be found in the berries and the protected potted specimens.

Potted Plants

The three Ground Orchids (Spathoglottis plicata) that were planted in the ground are now brown, crispy critters. But the one I potted and kept indoors has been in bloom for over a month. Many of the blossoms have faded, but there are still some unopened buds.

Not sure if one can really call it a flower, but this is as close as Cherokee Sedge (Carex cherokeensis) is likely ever going to get.

Indoor Plants

The only indoor plants I've ever had consistently bloom are the hybrids of the Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis sp.). One of the orchids we have had for quite a while is producing a bloom stalk, but has not yet developed it's flower buds. So I'm cheating a little bit by showing three recent purchases that were already in full bloom when bought.

Flower Wannabes

Though my ground-bound plants are lacking in blooms, they are making up for it with their bright red fruit. One of the consistent performers is the Nandina (Nandina domestica) which are thick with clusters of bright red berries.

Small clusters of the berries decorate the glossy leaves of the Dwarf Buford Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii Nana'), though I seem to have fewer on the plant this year than in seasons past.

The prickly leaves of the Dwarf Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Rotunda') sometimes hide its small groups of red berries. Though never thickly adorned, I have had more than usual this year (likely due to more sunshine reaching the plants since a tree fell and opened the canopy).

Another whose berry production can vary widely, the Possumhaw (Ilex decidua) can still catch the eye even with just a few of its bright red orbs.

Be sure to visit May Dream Gardens to see what is flowering in other gardens.

Unprotected Results

2011-02-07T19:13:00.000-06:00

I previously reported on the protected plants and the results of our prolonged freeze here in central Texas. Now its time to examine the plants that received no protection which showed damage or which looked bad but appear to be recovering.

The Gold Dust Plants (Aucuba japonica 'Variegata') originally looked quite sad, but after a couple days of warmth, they have completely recovered.

The potted Bear's Breech (Acanthus 'Summer Beauty') initially looked sad, and now...well...sad doesn't even begin to describe its condition. Will have to see if it recovers from the roots (presently, I am hopeful).

The Formosa Red Azalea (Azalea indica 'Formosa Red') has also bounced back looking no worse for the exposure. I had though it should be able to handle the conditions, but its droopy look a couple of days ago had me worried.

No surprise here. I had not anticipated the Palm Grass (Setaria palmifolia) foliage to make it through even our regular winter lows. The plan was for it to return from roots - now I'll just have to wait and see.

The Coral Bells 'Caramel' (Heuchera villosa 'Caramel') looked a little tired, but is another that bounced back strong once the temperatures warmed up. I had suspected that this plant should be able to handle the lows, but since it is new to my garden, there is always doubt.

Another new plant to the garden is the Butterfly Iris (Iris 'nada'). It has handled all previous freezes without showing any damage (even putting on some new growth during the warmer spells). But it also was one that looked rather sad - but it has bounced back with only some minor damage.

The forgotten Gasteraloe 'Midnight' (meant to cover it - though I'm thinking it would not have made a difference) might look healthy in the picture, but every piece of green is soft and mushy. I'm afraid it may be a complete loss.

I have never protected my Manfreda 'Macho Mocha' (Manfreda x Mangave 'Macho Mocha') (even during last year's 18 degree lows), but they certainly got hurt by the extreme length of this winter's cold exposure. Much of the plant is soft and mushy - can't yet tell if the center is still firm. Time will tell.

The Variegated Flax Lilies (Dianella tasmanica 'Variegata'), another plant that can handle our typical Central Texas lows, has certainly been knocked back to its roots (much like last year). But it should return.

Blooming just days prior to the serious freeze, the Variegated Abutilons (Abutilon pictum 'Thompsonii') & Marilyn's Choice Abutilon all have freeze-dried leaves (and blossoms). As this is my first winter with the Abutilons, I will have to wait and see if they return from the above-ground stems, the roots or even at all.

With day after day of below freezing temperatures, the Texas Gold Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha var. hinckleyana) had finally laid flat on the ground. But with warmer temperatures, it has begin to look much healthier.

Two of the garden's three Friendship Plants (Billbergia nutans) were left to fend for themselves without protection in the cold temperatures. It is really difficult to tell the condition of the plant. It isn't soft or mushy, nor has its color faded or darkened. Will have to give it time to see the effects.

Of the two Foxtail Ferns (Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyersii'), one is potted and one is in the ground. The protected potted one received minor damage whereas the unprotected soil-based one certainly has more of its stems showing the tell-tale brownish tint that likely will lead to that portion being lost. But the plant should pull through.

Last year's 18 degree low hammered the Lily of the Nile (Agapanthus africanus) almost completely back to its roots. So this years lengthy freeze (and 17 degree low) will certainly cause a repeat of last year's results.

Also a repeat low temperature victim is the Pink Rain Lilies (Zephyranthes rosea). Their foliage typically withstand lows in the mid-20s, but temperatures in the teens lead it to lose everything above ground. But spring should see it sprouting once again.

A couple of others that appeared a little upset with the cold, but have survived with only minimal damage include Joe Pye Shrub & Cast Iron Plants (Aspidistra elatior).

Of course, there are several other plants that did as expected. Evergreens continued on in their foliar ways. Deciduous plants had lost their leaves long ago. The usual perennial culprits disappeared back into the ground, but will return with the spring. Likely, some that presently appear undamaged will begin to show signs as the months progress, and others that looked to have received mortal blows will bounce back.

For now, its a waiting game.

Uncovering The Plants

2011-02-06T16:50:00.002-06:00

Unwrapping the plants from their protective (ha!) covers is a bit like an evil birthday party where many of the gifts are pleasant surprises, but a few are twisted, melting, blackened carcasses. Ooo, what fun - let's open the next one.

For this posting, I'll examine the plants which were left outside but received some form of protection. (Will examine those left to fend for themselves on a subsequent posting.)

The Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyersii') showed some minor damage, but actually came through in good shape (especially for a recently potted plant).

The two Sago Palms came through beautifully. Of course, not only did they receive a cover, but a spotlight was placed underneath each one to give some additional warmth. The light bulb trick made a huge difference.

The Dyckias are all looking a little sad - a combination of cold and cover weight. Some of the spiky leaves seem a little more pliable than normal. Will have to wait to see how well they recover, but I'm at least hopeful.

Dyckia 'Cherry Coke'

Red-leafed Dyckia (Dyckia 'Red Devil')

Pineapple Dyckia (Dyckia brevifolia)

Bronze Dyckia (Dyckia fosteriana 'Bronze')

Dyckia platyphylla

The Soap Aloes (Aloe saponaria) got hammered. For that length of cold, covers made no difference. They likely would have benefited from the addition of a light source for warmth, but that would be difficult as they are widely scattered around the yard.

But at least some of the pups appear to be firm and strong, so there is a chance some will survive and grow from these.

The Aloe 'Hedgehog' (Aloe humilis 'Hedgehog') also got hit hard. Though it appears that some portions of the plant will likely survive, it will be significantly reduced. In the future, my succulent bed may get its own spotlight.

In the covered succulent bed along with some of the Aloes and Dyckias, this Manfreda looks rather sad. Species unknown, it has seemed less hardy as the 'Macho Mocha' - but the seller at the Austin Cactus & Succulent show said it would likely die back to the ground, but would return.

The Pittosporum Creme De Mint (Pittosporum tobira 'Shima') will, in the future, likely not even get covered. It only received special treatment this winter since it was a recent transplant. Though somehwat flattened, it appears to be in a good shape.

Much like the Pittosprum, the Sparkler Sedge (Carex phyllocephala 'Sparkler') primarily got protection due to their recent planting. All of them came through with little or no damage.

The following seemed to have survived with varying degrees of damage:

Anthony Waterer Spirea (Spiraea x bumalda 'Anthony Waterer')
Amaryllis 'San Antonio Rose' (Hippeastrum 'San Antonio Rose')
Bella Red Abutilon (Abutilon x hybridum 'Bella Red')
Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis)
Friendship Plants (Billbergia nutans) (though hard to tell)

Though difficult to burrow inside to determine, it appears that all the plants in the pop-up greenhouse have come through the deep freeze just fine.

The vast majority of my plants are typically left to fend for themselves. In the near future, I will try to post a listing of those that show damage and those that looked bad but recovered.

347 Days Later: Snow Again

2011-02-04T08:58:00.000-06:00

That might sound like a lot of snow-free days to northern gardeners, but in central Texas, that's an amazingly short span. Last year, on February 23, the garden received 1-2 inches of snow. Looks like we have a repeat.

Though last year, it wasn't preceded by almost three days of below freezing temperatures - so though quite pretty, its really adding insult to injury to my garden.

We are supposed to creep up to barely above freezing this afternoon (much to the relieve of the plants), so much of the white, fluffy stuff will melt away. Especially with a nice daytime warming trend predicted for the weekend.

And I'm starting to see blue skies and sunshine. Let the thaw begin.

There Will Be Damage

2011-02-02T19:33:00.000-06:00

Many central Texas gardeners looked at last winter's 18 degree low as extreme. So I guess this winter's freezing temperatures will have to be considered extremely extreme. Not only have we reached 17 degree lows, but will achieve it two nights in a row. While it is not uncommon for this area to drop pretty low, we typically bounce back to above freezing quite fast - often on the same day. This winter is unusual for us as we are expected to remain under freezing for an extended period: over 60 continuous hours at or below freezing.

So there will be damage. Prior to last night's freeze, I had already covered the plants (even purchasing a 10x20 foot cold cover to add to my collection of sheets, blankets & towels). Obviously, I don't have enough to cover everything, so choices had to be made.

Covered plants include:

Sago Palms (even place spotlight under the cover with them for some extra warmth)
recently potted Anthony Waterer Spirea (Spiraea x bumalda 'Anthony Waterer')
potted Foxtail Fern (Asparagus densiflorus 'Meyersii')
Soap Aloes (Aloe maculata)
Aloe 'Hedgehog' (Aloe humilis 'Hedgehog')
all Dyckias
some Amaryllis 'San Antonio Rose' (Hippeastrum 'San Antonio Rose')
Bella Red Abutilon (Abutilon x hybridum 'Bella Red'),
recently planted Pittosporum Creme De Mint (Pittosporum tobira 'Shima')
recently planted Sparkler Sedge (Carex phyllocephala 'Sparkler')
recently planted Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis)
some Friendship Plants (Billbergia nutans)

Then there is the inevitable plant that one forgets to cover. This time around it was the Gasteraloe 'Midnight' - will have to wait and see what happened to it.

But several plants are already showing signs of damage.

Gold Dust Plant (Aucuba japonica 'Variegata')

Bear's Breech (Acanthus 'Summer Beauty')

Formosa Red Azalea (Azalea indica 'Formosa Red')

Joe Pye Shrub

There are many others (but I was too wimpy to stay out in the cold taking snapshots!). Even the Cast Iron Plants (Aspidistra elatior) have an unusual darkness to their green color. Only time will tell which plants survive.

Planted in Pots:

Anthony Waterer Spirea (Spiraea x bumalda 'Anthony Waterer'): put it in large pot about a week ago - hope it makes it through this cold.

Foliage Follow-up: January 2011

2011-01-16T13:00:00.000-06:00

Foliage Follow-up is sponsored by the Digging garden blog on the sixteenth of every month, where we get to celebrate the leafy aspects of our gardens. On this dreary, drippy day, I decided to concentrate on the few plants I have that tend to disappear in our summer's heat but make a return in the coolness of winter.

Though only starting to peak out from the leaf litter, the Sweet Kate Spiderwort (Tradescantia x andersoniana 'Sweet Kate') has begun to produce some green amongst the brown. It will primarily shine during the spring, but will fade once things get hot and dry.

Considered by many to be invasive, I threw caution to the wind this past spring and added White Shamrock (Oxalis crassipes 'Alba') to my garden. It completely disappeared in the summer, but has been coming back strong this winter.

Back in mid-September, from the bare ground, up shot my first Red Spider Lily (Lycoris radiata) bloom. I'm hoping for plenty more blossoms next fall as the bulbs are producing good foliage this winter.

After almost completely disappearing over the summer, Bear's Breech (Acanthus 'Summer Beauty') always comes on strong once the temperatures start dropping. Its huge leaves make an impressive show (though recent low temperatures have wilted the plant a little).

Another plant that is completely lacking vegetation in the summer, the Oxblood Lily (Rhodophiala bifida) is once again making its presence known. Planted only last March, I have yet to get any blooms but hope some will make an appearance this fall.

Wasn't sure if my spring-planted Heartleaf Skullcap (Scutellaria ovata) had made it through the summer heat. Winter and early spring should be its time to shine, but I'm not completely confident with it yet.

Though present year-round, the Burgundy Glow Ajuga (Ajuga reptans 'Burgundy Glow') does add quite a bit to the winter color. The burgundy coloration intensifies and spreads during the colder temperatures and makes it quite eye-catching.

Be sure to visit Digging to see the foliage that other gardeners are sharing from their winter gardens.

Flower Power: GBBD January 2011

2011-01-15T14:40:00.001-06:00

On the fifteenth of every month, May Dream Gardens invites garden bloggers worldwide to share the blooms found in their garden. Obviously, the January garden will be considerably lacking compared to spring, but a few splashes of color can still be found amongst the rain showers & fallen leaves (even in my shady beds).

New Plants in the Garden

The Variegated Abutilons (Abutilon pictum 'Thompsonii') shrugged off our recent freezes and continue to put out salmon-colored blossoms.

Clusters of flowers appear at the end of the lengthy stems on the Marilyn's Choice Abutilon.

Annuals

I had read that Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) might not be winter-hardy (which seemed weird since this is when they are on sale), but the plants did fine without protection (though some blossoms didn't like the cold).

Potted Plants

Of my four Ground Orchids (Spathoglottis plicata), one met an untimely demise due to digging critters and two were left outside in the ground to see what winter would do to them (it smacked 'em pretty good, will have to see if they return from roots). But the potted one was moved inside & protected, where it awarded this care by producing blooms.

Flower Wannabes

This is certainly the time of year when berries steal the show; the Nandina (Nandina domestica) consistently add large clusters of bright red berries to the drab scene.

Dwarf Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Rotunda') does not consistently produce berries, but it is always nice when they make an appearance.

The leaves of the Possumhaw (Ilex decidua) have completely left the scene, allowing clusters of red berries to dominate the branches.

Only a few berries remain on the Chile Petin (Capsicum annuum var. aviculare) and those have started showing wrinkles as they age.

Last year, the show show put on by the Dwarf Buford Hollies (Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii Nana') was quite impressive, but this year, only a few small clusters of berries are present.

Hope your GBBD has been filled with color. Be sure to check out what is happening at other gardens by visiting May Dream Gardens.

Garden Tour: January 2011

2011-01-08T09:51:00.000-06:00

Have seen several other garden bloggers post a series of pictures creating a tour of their garden or beds. I have never done so, and I figured its about time - if for no other reason than to provide a baseline set of pictures of the garden's present status (guess this will also have to do for my tardy December Quarterly Report).

Front Yard

Three Tiers Garden: This narrow bed lies between my driveway and the neighbors (my yard is to the right). Dominant plants include Cast Iron Plants (Aspidistra elatior) & Soap Aloe (Aloe maculata). A few medium-sized Live Oaks provide the shade.

Front Left Garden: Small border bed that wraps around the base of a large Red Oak and goes from the driveway to the front door entry steps. Dominant plants include Cast Iron Plants & Autumn Ferns (Dryopteris erythrosora).

Front Right Garden: Small border bed that continues from entry steps and wraps around the corner of the house. Dominant plants include Cast Iron Plants & Boxwood (Buxus microphylla). Plan on adding a row of Autumn Ferns in front of the Cast Iron Plants (similar to the left side).

Front Side Garden: One of the forgotten beds. Located on the left side of the house near the back yard entry gate/stone path. Dominant plants include Nandina (Nandina domestica) & Dwarf Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria 'Nana'). Shade provided by Live Oaks and Yaupons (and privacy fence on two sides).

Back Yard

Side Garden: This is the "working" aspect of the yard - that side that tends to get ignored because its where all the unattractive stuff sits (i.e. AC units, garden shed, stone piles, etc.). No windows look out upon it, so typically only seen when one happens to walk through it going from the front yard towards the larger, primary backyard area. There is a bed that borders the fence on all three sides, with another island bed containing a bird bath. Dominant plants include Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon japonicus) & Dwarf Chinese Hollies (Ilex cornuta 'Rotunda'). Shade provided by a several medium-sized Live Oaks and Yaupons (plus the privacy fence on three sides and the house on the other). But, since the large Hackberry fell this past spring, this is still considered my "sunny" garden spot.

Pond Area: Leaving the side garden, one enters the backyard proper by rounding the corner of the house through a narrow area, stepping onto a multi-level deck that begins at ground level and extends the length of the house (ending six foot off the ground at the other corner). The first garden area one reaches is around the pond with its dual waterfalls. Dominant land plants include Dwarf Buford Hollies (Ilex cornuta 'Burfordii Nana') & Mahonia (Mahonia aquifolium); the dominant water plant is Water Poppy (Hydrocleys nymphoides). Shade provided by a very large Red Oak and some medium-sized Live Oaks.

Path Area: A series of stone steps rise from the lower deck up to the back of the yard. Much of my energy is spent (and recharged) in the backyard garden. A considerable mixture of plants can be found in this general area, so even though there really are no dominant plants, one can find Manfreda 'Macho Mocha' (Manfreda x Mangave 'Macho Mocha'), Lily of the Nile (Agapanthus africanus), Mexican Petunias (Ruellia tweediana 'Colobe Pink') and a few Dyckia species. Shade is provided by medium to large Live Oaks & Red Oaks.

Top of Path: The stone stairway leads one up to the highest level in the backyard. Here are some views of the top and looking back down the path towards the deck.

Around the Bend: From the top of the steps, a path (combination decomposed granite & stone steps) bends around the corner. This back area of my garden is the least developed with most of the plants having gone into the ground in 2010. I am still pondering the possibilities for the large empty area - it receives only a small amount of dappled light during the day as it is bordered on two sides by a privacy fence (which has tall cedar growing on the other side) and sits under the canopy of several large Red Oaks, Live Oaks and a large Black Cherry tree.

Stepping Stones Path: The path bends around and leads into a series of stepping stones that go through the middle of another large bed and lead back down towards the deck. Dominant plants include Liriope (Liriope spicata), Variegated Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon jaburan 'Vitattus') & Amaryllis 'San Antonio Rose' (Hippeastrum 'San Antonio Rose'), however, this garden is another that contains several different types of plants. Shade is provided by large Live Oaks, Red Oaks & Black Cherry tree, plus several Possumhaw trees

End of Stepping Stones: The path is supposed to lead back to the deck, completing the circle. But presently it ends a few steps short as I continue to try varying "steps" (thus explaining the scattered flat limestone pieces). Once completed, more plants will need to be placed around the path and extending out towards the side fence in a new bed.

Continuing to circle the house, one would cross the remaining side yard (home of the compost pile; very shady and consisting of only grass), exit the gate and return to the front yard. Big plans abound for numerous undeveloped areas, but the large empty areas in the existing beds still cry out for attention - so any further expansions will have to wait (likely quiet a while) until I can fill in the bare locations.

Experiment Status
Zephyr Rain Lily (Zephyranthes 'Labuffarosea') seeds: A couple still going strong.

Mahonia (Mahonia aquifolium) seeds: After sprouting and transplanting, they faded away; thinking inital germinating mixture was too heavy
Bronze Dyckia (Dyckia fosteriana) seeds: Deceased; tiny plants had difficulty rooting in loose mixture (each watering caused them to float free of soil); will have to try different mixture in future attempts
Oakleaf Hydrangea 'Alice' (Hydrangea quercifolia 'Alice') cuttings: Stayed green until last month, then dried up without ever producing any new leafs. Will have to burrow to see if any roots established.
Silver Squill (Ledebouria socialis) seeds: A couple doing really well.

Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) cuttings: Well, not cuttings - more of "oopsie, broke-offies"; started

Shady Happenings

2011-01-04T19:59:00.000-06:00

Over the past couple of weeks, my time in the garden has been limited. But I did notice a few "happenings" when I was able to be out amongst the plants.

With the cooler weather, the Bear's Breech (Acanthus 'Summer Beauty') has certainly come back from it's summer doldrums. It's pot has been hidden away under some shady Yaupons and Live Oaks where it has been busy putting out new leaves. It got moved out on to the deck so that it can be better appreciated.

The deck is pretty bare as most of the potted plants have been hidden away from the colder weather in either the garage or the new pop-up greenhouse. Though freezes have been few and light (scary ones are predicted for next week), a check on the greenhouse plants shows they are doing just fine in their new housing.

Most of the deciduous trees are now bare of leaves, but I have been busy gathering them up off my lawn by using my mulching lawnmower to shred and capture them. Each session would fill my experimental compost bin to its top, followed by it quickly settling and compacting - so that additional room was always available for the next gathering.

Noticed that this method led to varying colored strata - though the plant species' leaves gathered each time were the same. I'm just assuming that the color is more an aspect of the aging and decomposition phases.

Did find time over the holidays to build some wooden shelves for one side of my garden shed. The other side has two flimsy plastic shelves which I hope to replace with identical 3-level wooden shelves. This should increase the storage capacity of the shed and allow me to make more efficient use of its space.

Just a little bit here, and a little bit there.

Abutilon Blooms

2011-01-02T19:28:00.000-06:00

My three Variegated Abutilons (Abutilon pictum 'Thompsonii') have started blooming. There were a few apricot-colored blossoms back in the spring, but no more until this batch.

Unlike the sprawling 7+ foot tall Marilyn's Choice Abutilon (which has also been blooming), the Variegated Abutilon's height stayed under three foot. Its yellow-speckled foliage is what first caught my attention, but having small clusters of blooms is certainly an added bonus.

Planted in Pots:

Bleeding Heart Vine (Clerodendrum thomsoniae): finally got around to planting the cuttings given to me by Robin from Getting Grounded; it will be spending the winter in the pop-up greenhouse.

First Winter Freeze: 2010

2010-12-29T11:48:00.000-06:00

Though several other Austin gardens reported freezing temperatures as far back as a month ago, my garden had only received the slightest of touches from winter's cold hands - none of the plants even showing damage (though the leaves were certainly falling from the trees). But in the last few days, my garden finally received a good freeze setting a few of the plants back to their protected roots where they'll await next spring's warmth.

The Red Christmas Pride (Ruellia amoena) always get zapped back to the ground. The three found in my garden have been slow to return each year and are slowly disappearing - am thinking this may very well be their last hurrah.

I am hoping that the Salvia van houttei can return from its roots (most of my Salvias do). It was bravely trying to bloom right up to the end.

The potted Root Beer Plant (Piper auritum) leaves turned into the soggy handkerchiefs as always documented by Philip at East Side Patch (from whom I received the plant as a pass-along).

The three Dwarf Mexican Firebush (Hamelia patens 'Compacta') had shown some promising growth during the year so it will be interesting to see if they can return to form next spring. Though I'd like to see even stronger growth if I am to retain them.

I deliberately left the Hedychium 'Tahitian Flame' out so that the foliage would get nipped back - wanted to see how low it could go and how (if?) it recovers next spring.

Others that received at least a little leaf damage:

Southern Wood Fern (Dryopteris normalis): lost about half their fronds
Philippine Violets (Barleria cristata): now have mostly crunchy leaves
Mountain Sage (Salvia regla): ditto for this plant
Toad Lily (Tricyrtis lasiocarpa): both potted and in ground showing some die-back
Ground Orchid (Spathoglottis plicata): show some damage (though that may have begun even earlier; one of them is potted and safe in the house - and even blooming)
Blue Anise Sage (Salvia guaranitica 'Black and Blue'): still mostly green, but some minor damage
Red Dragon Knotweed (Persicaria microcephala 'Red Dragon'): typically dies back in winter, then comes back strong next spring
Crinums: all have minor leaf damage, but still mostly green (the ones I've had for years always die back to ground; not sure what new ones will do)
Banana Tree: in a pot; wanted some die back this year (got my wish).

Foliage Follow-up: December 2010

2010-12-16T17:02:00.000-06:00

On the sixteenth of each month, Digging sponsors the Foliage Follow-up to allow gardeners to show off the leafy aspects of their garden. Freezing temperatures have only given my garden the briefest of kisses, thus much of my "fall" foliage is just now starting to show some color.

The high canopy of my trees tends to require one to tilt one's head back far to appreciate any fall color. But when the sunlight catches the yellow leaves of the Black Cherry Tree, it is certainly worth the effort.

And the leaves of the Red Oak against a clear blue sky make a captivating sight.

In the understory, the lower shrubs try to add some small patches of fall color. The leaves of the Chinese Indigo (Indigofera kirilowii) are fading to yellow.

As are those of the Goldmound Spirea (Spiraea japonica 'Goldmound') showing a very nice mixture of green and gold.

Philippine Violets (Barleria cristata) lower leaves are beginning to add a burgundy touch to the garden.

And the newly acquired Mexican Buckeye (Ungnadia speciosa) will hopefully grow taller and fill in as an understory tree, and provide an even larger swath of fall color.

Be sure to visit other Foliage Follow-up postings at Digging to see more of other garden's leafy sites.

Flower Power: GBBD December 2010

2010-12-15T19:00:00.001-06:00

On the fifteenth of every month, May Dream Gardens sponsors Garden Blogger's Bloom Day where flowering plants are the rule. Though my temperatures have only flirted with the freezing point, blossoms are still pretty limited this time of the year in my garden.

Established Plants

The Joe Pye Shrub has a few clusters of white blooms still adorning the ends of several branches.

New Plants in the Garden

As I did not trim my Marilyn's Choice Abutilon this year, it is over six foot tall and thin, but once again putting out a small number of it's pendulous blossoms.

Annuals

The intensely bright colors of the Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) continue to capture the eye.

Flower Wannabes

As the flowers have faded, the berries have taken the stage. The leaves of the Chile Petin (Capsicum annuum var. aviculare) have begun to fade and drop, so it's small bright red berries have begun to really stand out.

The Nandina (Nandina domestica) berries continue to transition to a more intense shade of red, really jumping out when the setting sun highlights them.

The red berries of the Possumhaw (Ilex decidua) peak out from the remaining leaves, but soon those leaves will drop and the berries will adorn the bare branches alone.

It has been a good year for berries on the Dwarf Chinese Holly (Ilex cornuta 'Rotunda') which has received additional sun due to a fallen tree.

Be sure to check out May Dream Gardens to see what is blooming around everyone's gardens.

Pop Goes The Greenhouse

2010-12-05T19:13:00.004-06:00

As winter finally approaches here in central Texas, I typically move a few select potted plants into the house and the majority into the garage. But this means my vehicle no longer fits in there and must sit outside - which makes me grumpy on the morning drive. So this year I decided to build some type of structure to house the larger potted plants that need protection from freezes and thus free up my garage for the vehicle.

Ideas were pondered, plans were made, and a trip to the lumber store ensued. And...holy moley!...wood is expensive. This was to be a temporarily-used structure primarily to trap heat, but my plans were gonna cost at least $80.

I had given up on getting a pop-up plastic greenhouse cuz I thought it was too expensive. But, after lumber sticker-shock sent me researching the price again, I discovered I could get one slighter larger than my construction plans on sale for about $25 more - and I'd be able to collapse it down and store it when it was not needed.

Thus I recently became the owner of the Flowerhouse Planthouse 5. The collapsed structure & components fit inside a 3-foot circular tote for storage.

The carrying case contains the plastic pop-up greenhouse, poles, stakes and twine - everything needed to put it up (except a hammer for pounding stakes into the ground).

The greenhouse unfolds easily and springs into shape with minimum effort.

At this point, the structure doesn't really stand up by itself, but it at least gives the idea of its future size and shape. (Sidenote: at this stage, be careful moving around inside, pushing on the walls in an attempt to get it to stand; it is possible to get one's feet tangled with the lower portion and promptly tilt it and oneself over onto the ground...not that such an event...um...ever happened...uh...to me).

The poles which hold the structure's shape are much like camping tent poles. Each pole is segmented into three parts which contain an elastic cord that binds it together and allows for sections to be pulled apart for storage or snapped together when building.

The shorter, top pole was the most difficult to insert. The pole must be flexed to get each end to fit onto its respective small pocket. But, as it is the shortest pole, bending it is a little tricky. Velcro fasteners are then used to further secure it.

In the same manner, two poles are placed on each side in a crossed form to lend support. Because of their greater length, bending these to get them to fit is not a problem.

At this point, the structure has its final shape. Each end has zippered plastic & screen doors so that you can open either or both for ventilation/entry. There is no floor to the structure.

A shade cloth is also provided and can be attached using Velcro strips. As I will likely have more warm days than cold days, I decided to use the shade cloth (though this is my sunniest garden area, the greenhouse will not be receiving too much direct sun).

Stakes are provided, but their 12 inch length seem a little extreme. Ain't gonna happen in my rocky environment; one is lucky to achieve even six inches of soil penetration before encountering limestone.

So I had to cut the stakes down to a more reasonable six inches. But when used, some of these still had to be hammered in at an angle as they ran into either limestone or large roots.

The plastic and screen doors each have Velcro straps so that the doors can be rolled open and secured.

Per recommendation, I also purchased a ceramic heater to go inside for those cold nights. On sunny days, the greenhouse will be plenty warm, but at night, its temperature will drop to match that of the outside air - so additional warmth will be required (just got to make sure nothing is in a position to start a fire).

Last step was to start filling it with plants. As most of these plants are large, they fill the 5x5-foot floor space rather quickly. I hope to create some type of support bar so that I can also put a couple of hanging pots inside (need to take advantage of that unused vertical space!). I also suspect that there will be some leaf burn on the plants that are near or touching the sides. But in the past, when the plants were stored in the garage, they usually had some damage (likely due to not enough light) - so I figure that will be alright.

Will be interesting to see how this works. And whether I'm ever able to get it back inside its tote bag next spring (things that spring out from small containers never do seem to fit back inside).

Christmas Cactus Blossoms

2010-11-25T08:37:00.000-06:00

About a week ago, due to the possibility of a freeze, I brought my Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) into the house. It is not uncommon for the plant, because of the change in temperature, humidity and lighting, to promptly drop its flower buds. But not this time.

The buds recently began unfurling, and with the sunshine highlighting them from behind, started putting on quite a show.

The pot actually has both a red and pink variety planted together, so it produces a nice mixture of both colors.

It is also known as the Holiday Cactus. And since, in my household, it's blossoms typically never make it to Christmas, perhaps that's an even more apt name for it.

Here's hoping your Thanksgiving holidays are just as bright and colorful.

'Gotta Get' Gotten

2010-11-24T16:54:00.000-06:00

After reading about the dwarf variety Pittosporum Creme De Mint (Pittosporum tobira 'Shima') on the Digging garden blog, I promoted it to my 'Gotta Get' list. But now I'm getting to remove it from the list - cause I got it!

Prior to finding the plant, I had already selected a spot for it near my garden path that needed some winter foliage and a little pizazz. I think the Creme De Mint's variegated, evergreen foliage of light green, white & creamy pale yellow definitely fulfills that requirement.

I was able to get one that already measured a couple of feet across and a little over a foot tall, so its already at least halfway to its full size. It'll receive late morning sun, then dappled shade the remainder of the day (hoping that will be sufficient).

One 'Gotta Get' gotten; so many more to go...

Foliage Follow-up: November 2010

2010-11-16T08:45:00.000-06:00

On the sixteenth of each month, Digging invites us to celebrate the foliar aspects of our garden by participating in Foliage Follow-up. A shady understory garden is predominately a leafy one, but as the days get shorter, my garden actually starts getting brighter as the deciduous trees begin dropping their leaves.

So for Foliage Follow-up, I decided to highlight the leaves that, for most of the year, have been providing my shade. But are now drifting down, gently landing here and there amongst the plants.

Be sure to visit Digging to see & share all the leafy wonders found in the garden.