With long, pendulous branches, persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) is a unique choice for the landscape. Although the dark green, ovate leaves complement the grayish, blocky, alligator-skin bark through the growing season, this tree really shines in fall when it bears bright orange leaves and small, apricot-colored fruits. Similar to the non-native persimmon fruits sold in the…
Lady fern (Athyrium filix-femina) offers great textural contrast and is more adaptable than most other native ferns. At 1-3′ in height and with a 1-2.5′ spread, this fern grows easily in rich, well-drained soils but can also thrive in somewhat drier conditions. It prefers part to full shade but can handle more sunlight if the…
Prairie dropseed (Sporobolus heterolepis) is a beautiful and functional grass selection suitable for a wide range of landscapes. Naturally found in prairies, glades, and open meadows, its thin, wispy foliage is a soft complement to the upright forms and bold textures of wildflowers. It can also offer good contrast to sedge and grass mixtures in…
Woodvamp (Decumaria barbara), also known as climbing hydrangea, is a deciduous, semi-evergreen vine that has dark, glossy leaves. Its flowers are small, white, and fragrant and only appear on new growth. It attracts bees and butterflies with its clusters of flowers. Woodvamp is a great candidate to cover the side of a building, grow over…
The sweet azalea (Rhododendron arborescens) is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 10′ tall with a similar width. It thrives in acidic, well-draining soils and in part shade. There are two main forms of sweet azalea. The straight species blooms in late May to mid-June, while the selection called ‘Georgiana’ blooms mid-July to…