Cistus Nursery NW Gillihan Road Sauvie Island, or phone Fax

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1 Mail Order Catalog Fall 2010 Cistus Nursery NW Gillihan Road Sauvie Island, or phone Fax order by phone 9-5 pst Fax, Mail, or ( = new to mail order list)

2 Abelia x grandiflora 'Little Richard' Small and fast-growing abelia, from a hybrid cross between A. chinensis and A. uniflora, reaching only 3 ft x 3 ft with dense, evergreen foliage that shows bronze highlights in winter. Useful in the landscape and suitable for a hedge. Flowers, small and white, begin in May and continue sporadically throughout the season. Sun to part shade with average summer water. Easily frost hardy in USDA zone 6, resprouting in upper zone 5. 2 Caprifoliaceae Abutilon megapotamicum Ines flowering maple Ines' pale yellow flowers -- nearly white, flared upwards and backed by a dark red calyx -- are striking and abundant from spring through first frost. This new flowering maple is a fast-growing, medium shrub, 5 ft tall x 5 ft wide, with slightly fuzzy leaves. A wonderful introduction by Monterey Bay Nursery, best with protection from hot afternoon sun as well as consistent water and nutrients. Mulch and overhead protection provide extra winter frost hardiness in USDA zone 8. $9.00 Malvaceae Abutilon Savitzii flowering maple One of the few abutilons we sell that is quite tender. Grown since the 1800s for its wild variegation -- the leaves large and pale, almost white with occasional green blotches -- and long, salmon-orange, peduncled flowers. A medium grower, to 4-6 ft tall, needing consistent water and nutrients in sun to part shade. Winter mulch increases frost hardiness as does some overstory. Frost hardy to 25 F, mid USDA zone 9. Where temperatures drop lower, best in a container or as cuttings to overwinter. Well worth the trouble! $9.00 Malvaceae Acacia dealbata silver wattle This fern-leaved mimosa is hugely handsome in the garden or in a large container with its finely cut, deep gray-green leaves and huge trusses of scented, yellow puffball, spring flowers. Fast growing, to a possible ft in the best conditions, full sun and well-drained soil with good protection from weather extremes. Tolerates both droughty and moist conditions. Frost hardy into the teens F, mid USDA zone 8, resprouting should the weather be less hospitable. $18.00 Fabaceae Acanthus sennii A most unusual species from the highlands of Ethiopia, a shrub to 3 ft or more with silvery green leaves to about 3" wide, ruffle edged and spined, and spikes of nearly red flowers in summer and autumn. Full to part sun; medium or better drainage; and summer water in dry places. The tops are frost hardy into the low 20s F, dying back but resprouting with vigor to at least the low teens, lower USDA zone 8, and even lower with mulch. Acanthaceae Acorus gramineus Masamune dwarf sweet flag A very old Japanese cultivar, a true dwarf used mainly in bonsai work, but equally at home in the garden. To 6" tall with grassy foliage in variegations of green and white. Slowly spreads in part shade to shade with consistent moisture. Even tolerates shallow standing water. Or tuck it here and there to hide the cracks. Frost hardy to -10F, in USDA zone 6. $9.00 Acoraceae ( = new to mail order list)

3 Acorus gramineus 'Variegatus' grassy-leaved sweet flag Grassy leaves with golden-yellow and cream variegation form clumps to 1 ft tall and wide. Flowers are sedge-like, tiny and green. Prefers sun to part shade in moist soils. Even tolerates boggy conditions or standing water to 3" deep - but shouldn't dry out. Evergreen in USDA zone 8 and root hardy to zone 5. 3 $6.00 Acoraceae Actinidia pilosula variegated kiwi Stunning and rarely seen kiwi with long narrow leaves with white tips that contrast brilliantly with the basic green foliage, the coloration appearing and/or becoming more pronounced on mature vines. A deciduous vine, to ft, with unusual flowers, clusters of pink blossoms, in spring. Originally from East Asia, these are vigorous growers, best with support in full sun to dappled shade or even full shade. Give them rich soil, moist and well-drained. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6. Actinidiaceae Aeonium castello-paivae 'Variegata' Sedum relative with succulent rosettes, in pale green splashed with white, forming compact clumps to 1 ft tall and wide. Excellent as a container plant that can be brought inside if temperatures fall below the upper 20s F or in the garden anywhere temperatures don't allow plants to freeze. Full to part sun with occasional summer water. Frost hardy to mid USDA zone 9. $11.00 Crassulaceae Aeonium virgineum velvet rose From the Canary Islands, this virgin aeonium probably won't flower for you, but its pale green, aromatic rosettes of fuzzy, 8" leaves are enough to satisfy me. Full to part sun with occasional summer water. Frost hardy to about 20F or so, the bottom of USDA zone 9, so best used as container plant that can be taken inside where temperatures are harsher. Should be kept indoors in a bright but cool place with occasional water in winter. Crassulaceae Aeonium 'Zwartkop' Very popular, shrub forming, sedum relative from the Canary Islands with rosettes of nearly black leaves on gray-brown stems rising to 3-4 ft. Yellow, star-shaped flowers appear in clusters in late winter and early spring on mature plants. For sunny coastal areas or part shade inland with occasional but deep summer water. Frost hardy to the mid 20s F, mid USDA zone 9, and a superb container plant to bring inside to a bright spot where temperatures drop lower. Also found as A. arboreum 'Zwartkop' and occasionally as A. manriqueorum 'Schwartzkopf'. Crassulaceae Aeschynanthus sp. NApe 008 This diminutive, unidentified species was collected in southern China and grows only 4-6" tall with a spread of about 18. As is typical of the gesneriad family, these can be epiphytic on wood or damp scree or indeed can live on a windowsill with fertile soil. The crisp, light green and compact foliage makes a pleasing background for the 2, fiery orange, trumpet flowers. We have found it most beautiful in a tall pot with the foliage tailing over the side. A superb woodland plant in mild places, these have so far tested frost hardy only to the bottom of USDA zone 9. $11.00 Gesneriaceae ( = new to mail order list)

4 Agapanthus Hinag Summer Gold PP10866 lily of the nile A Japanese cultivar introduced by Barry Yinger. With its lovely strap-like, variegated leaves, pale yellow with green center, this agapanthus is as handsome out of flower as in. Summer to autumn flower are mid-bluish-purple, and lovely against the pale leaves. Reaches 12-18" high and wide in sun to partial shade with summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8, possibly colder with winter mulch. Does well in pots. 4 Amaryllidaceae Agapanthus inapertus ssp. pendulus Graskop grassland agapanthus Dark blue, nearly black buds that open to dark, violet-purple flowers mark this striking, deciduous agapanthus. Flowering in July and August, the 3 ft stems rise a foot above the clumps of light green, strap-like leaves. A bit more cold hardy than evergreen relatives, this cultivar from the northeast Transvaal in South Africa enjoys sun, well-drained soil, and spring and summer water. Also tolerates winter rains. Frost hardy to 15 to 20F, mid to upper USDA zone 8. Amaryllidaceae Agapanthus 'Midnight Blue' lily of the nile Gorgeous globes of deep blue-violet flowers on 2.5 ft stalks appear in July and August above clumps of dark green, strap-like leaves, narrower than other forms. This Irish selection of a South African native loves sun to part shade, plenty of fertilizer in summer, and well-drained soil. Needs water during the growing season; resents too much water at any time. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. Amaryllidaceae Agapanthus 'Streamline' lily of the nile The medium blue flowers -- with hints of lavender and a darker strip on the petals -- are lovely in July and August on this dwarf, evergreen perennial to only 16" tall. This selection of a South African native requires well-drained soil and sun to part shade for best performance. Tolerates some drought once established and resents too much water but thrives with regular moisturizing in the growing season. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. An excellent cut flower. Amaryllidaceae Agapanthus Tinkerbell dwarf variegated agapanthus The variegated companion to Agapanthus Peter Pan has dwarf foliage -- green with white edges -- and a dwarf flowering stalk of medium blue flowers rising to 18" above the 8" leaves. Useful as container plant especially for its sprightly, variegated look. Enjoys sun to part shade in well-drained soil and average summer water. Evergreen to the mid 20s F, and cold hardy to at least USDA zone 8 and probably colder. $11.00 Amaryllidaceae Agave americana 'Mediopicta Alba' white-striped century plant Beautifully variegated, diminutive form, with rosettes spreading to no more than 2-3 ft, the beautifully curved leaves colored a dusty blue-green with a wide creamy stripe in the center. Slowly offsetting in bright light and well-drained soil with occasional summer water. As luck would have it, this is one of the forms hardier to frost with plants surviving 10 to 15F, USDA zone 8, in soil that is dry in winter. Pull in or cover below 20F or so in areas of winter wet. $22.00 ( = new to mail order list)

5 Agave 'Blue Glow' Handsome, small agave, its stiff leaves " wide, blue-green with red margins edged with yellow and a red terminal spine -- are particularly lovely when backlit. Plants are small, 1-2 ft tall and wide at maturity. This hybrid between A. ocahui and A. attenuata, created by Kelly Griffin, is solitary, enjoying full sun, good drainage, and little summer water. Frost hardy to at least 15F, mid USDA zone always with good drainage -- and possibly lower. 5 $17.00 Agave bracteosa Calamar solitary candelabrum agave Selected by Pat McNeal, this is a non-clumping form of the species, still resembling a bromeliad with lax, spineless leaves that are, in this form, consistently blue-tinted. As with the species, polycarpic and rare in cultivation. Often found clinging to cliff sides, these plants love the cool summer nights of the Northwest. Half sun, well-drained soil, and only occasional summer water. Frost hardy to 10F, USDA zone 8. Agave bracteosa 'Monterrey Frost' monterrey frost century plant A rare form of A. bracteosa, only recently available to the public, but high on the agave lovers "want" list for some time. Plants eventually reach 1 ft tall x 1.5 ft wide with leaves that can either be described as green with wide white margins or white with a green stripe down the middle -- both are true. Offsets occasionally in maturity. Prefers lean soil that drains well and protection from the hottest sun, so light dappled shade or afternoon shade. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8. Lovely in a container. $24.00 Agave Burnt Burgundy Probable hybrid of A. victoriae-reginae and A. pelona, from Gregg Star who chose it for its unusual, smooth, burgundy-tinted leaves with dark margins. Small, to only a 1 ft to 18", and slowly clumping in full to part sun. Frost hardy so far to a little under 20F, just below USDA zone 9, in our now Eucalyptus-shaded agave patch, but a fine pot specimen in colder climates. Eucalyptus mulch optional. Agave chrysantha 'Blue Streak' A new Cistus introduction. Found near the Barnhard Trail in central Arizona, where diversity among the species if common. This form had the unusual habit of sending out colonies of young plants, each a rather pale, jaw-dropping, almost celadon blue. Given the habitat and this plant's situation in a northern aspect, we expect tolerance for anything we throw at it and others of its ilk. To about 5 ft x 5 ft with narrow, banded leaves. Prefers decent drainage, as one would expect, and winter drought. Happy with fairly generous summer water to push it along. Frost hardy, we believe, to between 0 and 10F, USDA zone 7, and possibly tougher. Agave felgeri mescalito Named for friend and botanist, Richard Felger, and found by him as well inhabiting dry, stony hills of western Sonora, this rare, A. parviflora relative has more robust leaves and rosettes. Triangular, gray-green leaves adorned with white markings and abundant cobweb-like filifers form clumps of multiple rosettes to no more than 8" tall. Happy in garden situations if provided excellent drainage and a fine pot specimen as well. Frost hardy to between 15 and 20F, mid to upper USDA zone 8, the drier the better. ( = new to mail order list)

6 Agave funkiana 'Blue Haze' Selected for its striking foliage, toothed and narrowing to a sharply pointed tip with a pale to nearly white mid-stripe on the powdery blue leaves. Rosettes can reach up to 2 ft tall and wide. Sun and well-drained soil required. Drought tolerant but occasional summer water speeds growth and generally enhances the appearance. Frost hardy to 15F, mid USDA zone 8. Otherwise a happy container plant. 6 Agave funkiana 'Fatal Attraction' Another selection of the already handsome A. funkiana, this with darker green leaves and and pale green midstripe down the center. Leaves are narrow and toothed, ending in a dark and pointed spine tip. For sun and well-drained soil, as expected. Drought tolerant but occasional summer water speeds growth. Less frost hardy than the species, to 15F, mid USDA zone 8. Does well in containers. Agave geminiflora twin-flowered agave A rare relative in the Agave filifera group, this southwestern Mexico native has intriguing deep green rosettes of rubbery, somewhat weeping leaves with enchanting silver-white filifers toward the center of the rosette. Can even produce a short trunk. A tender species damaged under about 20F, USDA zone 9, it is best in a tall pot where its weeping foliage can spread out and over the rim. When the plants reach 1 ft. or more in diameter, they produce a spike of flowers well over 5 ft tall at which time, hopefully, they also produce an offset or two. Agave gentryi x montana Collected originally in the Sierra Madre Orientale of northeast Mexico in an area where the majestic A. gentryi meets the more refined and smaller A. montana. The most beautiful silver-gray color represented here suggests that A. scabra, the universal partygoer of that region, has come along for the ride as well. To 4 ft wide, this stunning plant is tolerant of garden moisture --provided drainage is good -- and prefers full sun for best color. Cold hardy to 10F, USDA zone 8. Fast growing. $17.00 Agave gracilipes - red spined clone slim footed agave A red-spined selection of this hardy and diverse species, a natural hybrid of A. neomexicana and A. lecheguilla from West Texas, New Mexico and Chihuahua, Mexico. These have narrow green to gray-green leaves with curved spines along the sides and a sturdy, sharp tip, very red in this form. Rosettes reach tall x 18 wide and remain solitary, rarely offsetting. Best in lean, well-drained soil with occasional summer water for best growth and appearance. Frost hardy to at least 20F, USDA zone 5 and possibly lower. Agave 'Green Goblet' A form selected in the high Sierra Madre Orientale of eastern Mexico by Carl Schoenfeld and Wade Rosch. This plant is likely A. gentryi with a little A. montana thrown in and forms 4-5 ft rosettes of fleshy, moss-green leaves beautifully patterned and indented. From pine/oak woodland, it is adaptable to moist soil and even partial shade where autumn leaves won't collect in the rosettes. Thus far has been hardy to close to 0F, USDA zone 7. However, the colder the climate, the more sun and drainage should be provided. ( = new to mail order list)

7 Agave Kissho Kan lucky crown century plant Stunning blue-gray leaves edged in white make this symmetrical rosette an outstanding addition to any collection. Yellow leaf spines darken to reddish brown adding distinction. To 15 tall x 18 wide and slowly offsetting. Needs light, and well-drained soil. Frost hardy to USDA zone 9. Best in container protected from winter wet where temperatures drop below the 20s F. 7 Agave lophantha 'Quadricolor' quadricolor centuy plant This lovely Japanese selection of an easy to grow species is small, only to about 6-8", with shiny green leaves edged cream and tan. Eventually forms clumps of several rosettes. Best if kept out of hottest afternoon sun in well-drained soil with occasional summer water where dry. A fine rock garden creature where temperatures seldom fall to 15 F, mid USDA zone 8 and superb in containers where temperatures are too harsh. $19.00 Agave macroculmis YD 129 From several places in northeastern Mexico, this collection, from mountain ranges north of Potosi at nearly 7000 ft in oak, pine, and yes...douglas fir, forms colonies of 4 ft rosettes tinted a lovely blue-gray and showing the leaf scars to beautiful effect as each new leaf emerges. The leaf margins are undulating and decorated with dark spines. So far these have proven frost hardy to the low teens F, low to mid USDA zone 8, and are quite happy with abundant garden moisture so good drainage and air circulation in the winter is helpful. Fine pot specimen. Agave (Manfreda) 'Spot' A Cistus introduction from one of our hybrids between A. virginica and A. maculosa. Forms stunning rosettes to about 18", with blue-green leaves endearingly adorned with purple spots. Though tolerant of some drought prefers a medium to moist situation. Light shade to full sun. Deciduous at 25F (don't worry, it's supposed to do that.) Cold hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5 or below, if placed in well-drained soil. Agave montana Baccarat A selection by Yucca Do Nursery, from high elevation in Mexico s Nuevo León Province, named after a fine crystal because of the leaf imprints on the backs of glaucous leaves that end in spiny black tips - very dramatic. Forms striking clumps to 2 ft tall x 3 ft wide. Sun, lean soil, and good drainage. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 7. Agave 'Mr. Ripples' Yes, the leaf edges are wavy on this lovely agave, an introduction by Yucca Do Nursery, possibly a cross between A. salmiana and A. protoamericana. Forms single rosettes to 3-4 ft tall x 4-6 ft wide, the toothed green leaves with a bluish tinge and velvety texture. Full sun with good drainage and little summer water. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7. ( = new to mail order list)

8 Agave murpheyi murphey's agave Sweet little agave, from mid elevation deserts of central Arizona into Sonora, often found associated with Native American sites. To 18", or 2 feet at most, with narrow, upright leaves, slightly recurved and steel to powder blue. Offsetting fairly quickly. The eventual flowers also produce tiny bulbils -- as the song goes -- which might explain its being spread by people in the early days. Because of its drier habitats we keep ours in pots with very well drained soil, or only in the most exposed areas of our garden and growing in true grit. Full sun. Again, dry conditions with an occasional splash of summer water. Cold hardy into upper USDA zone 7 if dry. 8 Agave murpheyi Variegata Another sweet little agave, from mid elevation deserts of central Arizona into Sonora, Mexico. Up to 18" to 2 ft tall with narrow, upright leaves, wavy with creamy yellow margins, the centers steel to powder blue. Offsets quickly. Best planted in truly gritty soil in pots or exposed garden areas with full sun. Provide good drainage and dry conditions with a bit of summer water. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 7 if dry in winter. $17.00 Agave neomexicana trailer park mescal A tough-as-nails species, closely related to A. parryi but with narrower, deep blue leaves held upright and out and adorned with gray marginal spines and long, terminal brownish red spines. Slow growing to an eventual 1-2 ft tall x 2-3 ft wide, offsetting to form colonies. After 15 years or so, produces yellow flowers on a 12 ft stalk! Full sun and lean, well-drained soil with little, if any, summer water. This native of southeastern New Mexico is one of the hardiest species; to -20F, USDA zone 5, with good drainage. Agave ornithobroma maguey pajarito Wonderful, short-trunk forming species from subtropical western Mexico, these collections from Sinaloa at under 500 ft elevation -- did we say warm? Closely related to A. geminiflora, the 18" rosettes, with extremely narrow, flexible leaves of dark green, are beautifully framed by a gazillion curly white filifers or hairs. Quite happy with a fair amount of moisture; winter drought decreases chance of problems. We have had this in our garden, hardy for the last few years with luck. Really, it should be protected below the mid 20ºs F so best for mildest parts of the world or as fabulously small-scale container plants. USDA zone 9/10. Full sun to dappled shade in a bright window, or your nearest lava outcrop. Agave ovatifolia 'Frosty Blue' A Cistus introduction and new. This mega-century plant, first discovered by Lynn Lowrey in northeastern Mexico some 30 years ago and just named recently by agaveist Greg Starr, might be the largest of the cold hardy agaves, reaching eventually to 6-8 ft with beautifully formed, blue leaves. Our selection, made from a more recent batch, has a distinct, pale aquamarine hue with the classic shape of cupped, upright, and slightly outward bending leaves. The species has taken the cold and wet of Dallas TX, for instance, so upper USDA zone 7 for cold hardiness; possibly colder in gritty or dry soil. Fabo container plant. $22.00 ( = new to mail order list)

9 Agave ovatifolia [Sierra de Lampazos clone] whale's tongue agave One of the most beautiful century plants, found in the Sierra de Lampazos in the early 80s by the late great plantsman, Lynn Lowrey and only named in 2004 by agave-ist Greg Starr. Growing in a limited range of pinion/juniper/oak country above 8000 ft, the chalky blue rosettes, exceedingly wide and beautifully toothed, can reach over 5 ft in width giving the appearance of a much more tropical species. Has proven to be one of the best performers where cold and wet is experienced in winter and has, thus far, proven hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7, or even a bit lower. Sun to dappled shade; drainage is always a plus. 9 $17.00 Agave palmeri [Chiricahua Mtns., 6900' elev.] palmer agave A handsome agave, to 3 ft all x 4 ft wide, with stiff, blue-green leaves edged with curved, sharp, red-brown teeth and tipped with a long, sharp spine. Native to southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and northern Mexico, this form originated in the Chiricahua Mountains of south eastern Arizona at higher than usual elevations. The flower stalks, produced in early spring after 5 years, bear pale, greenish yellow flowers followed by banana-like fruit. Plants offset, fortunately, as this a monocarpic species that dies after setting seed. Full sun with good drainage is best with only very occasional summer water. Frost hardy to 5F, mid USDA zone 7. Agave parrasana This Mexican species is most easily identified by its thick triangular leaves, beautifully marked blue-green in color, arranged in a striking rosette and edged with equally thick brown and white spines. Plants form low dense mounds, each rosette eventually measuring 2 ft x 2 ft and, in time, sending up 12 ft branched flower spikes of warm yellow blushed apricot. Best in mineral soil, sharp drainage, full sun. This represents a high elevation collection at over 8,500 ft that has thus far withstood between 0 and 10F, USDA zone 7, with overhead protection from excess winter moisture. Stunning pot plant or container specimen. Agave parryi (aff. var. couesii) SBHMPS 6725 From one of our favorite places in Arizona, east of Prescott amid nolinas and ponderosa pines, this extremely hardy century plant grows in colonies of giant (nearly 2 ft), blue, artichoke-like rosettes. Its habitat is a cold climate where temperatures frequently drop below 0F and the ground is snow covered or frozen for long periods of time.these plants should be hardy to well below -10F, USDA zone 6. Although this population exhibits characteristics of both A. parryi and A. couesii, what we know for certain is that these beautiful blue plants are from the highest elevation we have ever found the species and should be exceedingly frost hardy with good air circulation, bright light and good drainage. Agave parryi (aff. var. couesii) SBHMPS 6728 From the high ponderosa woods at over 8,000 ft between Jerome and Prescott, Arizona, where, in 1981, we first set our eyes upon this particular "patch" growing in light shade with beautiful, 24", blue "artichokes" and dozens of offsets spreading from the plants, seemingly in a race to get to a nearby clearing. Sometimes the reason the plants are brought into cultivation is simply because they are easy to propagate. This little agave is both beautiful and... we can make more. The same culture as for other Agave parryi with dappled shade to bright light and fairly free drainage. This clone, however, should be exceedingly frost hardy to at least -10F, USDA zone 6, possibly colder. Should still be provided winter protection if grown in container below USDA zone 8. $17.00 ( = new to mail order list)

10 Agave parryi [N. of Sedona, AZ] Tightly clumping agave with seriously impressive leaves and extremely sharp spines. A Cistus collection found north of Sedona Arizona, this form reaches 3 ft tall and wide. Best in full sun with excellent drainage and occasional water in summer for best appearance. Cold hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7 if kept dry in winter. 10 Agave parryi var. huachucensis 'Huachuca Blue' A Cistus introduction, bluer than its near relation. Our fabulous selection -- from 7000 ft in the Huachuca Mountains in southern Arizona and into northern Sonora -- exhibits particularly steel-blue leaves in the classic artichoke shape, eventually offsetting and forming small colonies. Though not the most frost hardy of the A. parryi clan, still takes 10F in stride, USDA zone 8, and lower if very soil is well drained. Full sun in lean, well-drained soil with occasional summer water in dry climates. Agave parryi var. parryi century plant Strikingly handsome agave with blue-gray, sharp-spined leaves that show the imprint of newer leaves. To 2 ft tall at maturity, these are best in full sun and soil that is lean and very well-drained. Extra protection from winter moisture increases frost hardiness. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8 with that excellent drainage. Good in containers as well, with extra protection in winter cold. Agave parviflora [Ruby, AZ] A jewel-like miniature agave from the dry grasslands of southern Arizona and adjacent Sonora, a habitat that includes Dasylirion wheeleri and the famed Opuntia violacea v. santa rita, and a rich area where we have selected forms of heucheras, Zauschneria arizonica, and numerous desert ferns. Rosettes of only 6-8", with narrow leaves, deep green marked white, and curled filifers that make it an intriguing plant for container or garden. The flowering stalks are tall and narrow; the unusual, creamy flowers tinted red, make hummingbirds very happy. Provide excellent drainage in bright light to only the lightest of shade for best form. The habitat has dry winters and thunderstorm laden summers so these plants are best well watered in summer and kept dry in winter, though plants in our Portland garden have been quite happy for some years in a stone wall with no cover. Frost hardy from 0 to 10F, USDA zone 7; colder if kept winter dry. Agave 'Royal Spine' Handsome, small agave, to only 18 tall x 2 ft wide with a dense rosette of dark green leaves blushed white (giving rise to an alternative name, A. 'Green Steel ). A cross between A. macroacantha and A. victoriae-reginae, the first contributing a dark terminal spine, the second, the darkly chiseled, spineless, leaf edges. Sun, good drainage and little summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 9. Looks wonderful in containers. Agave Ruth Bancroft shark skin agave Found in the hills near Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico, where 3 century plants converge (if not collide). This selection, from the California garden of Ruth Bancroft, has an exquisitely fine, platinum-colored sheen with no white markings -- clearly showing its A. victoria-reginae and A. scabra parentage. To 2-3 ft tall x 3-4 ft wide. For bright sun and well-drained soil with little summer irrigation necessary. Great in containers. Cold hardy to 10F or so, USDA zone 8. Also known as A. Sharkskin for its leaf color and texture. $18.00 ( = new to mail order list)

11 11 Agave salmiana var. ferox giant agave Huge, scary agave, to 4-6 ft tall x 6-12 ft wide over time, with an urn-shaped silhouette made up of foot wide, gray leaves. Originating in Mexico, these are common as accents in gardens with Mediterranean climates, as they rarely flower. Sun, good drainage, and very little summer water is necessary. Cold hardy in USDA zone 9, to 20-25F. Good for containers. Agave schidigera 'Black Widow' A compact selection of this native of western Mexico. The dark green leaves are rigid, widest in the center and narrowing to a sharp spine, with silvery markings and showy filifers along the edges. Plants can reach 1 ft tall x 18 wide forming dense symmetrical rosettes that rarely offset. Lean soil and full sun are fine in coastal climates; protection from hottest afternoon sun is important inland. Prefers regular summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8. Also makes a charming container plant. Agave schidigera 'Shira ito no Ohi' queen of white thread century plant The cultivar name (NOT translated as "Honey, I shrunk the kids") refers to the silky threads or filifers that decorate these rosette-forming agaves. They are solitary plants, to 18" tall and wide, with the dark green leaves, strikingly variegated with creamy margins, the quite symmetric filifers adding to the show. The species, from the high country of Mexico's Durango State, shows a decent tolerance for moisture and frost in USDA zone 8. But temperatures below 20F, bottom of USDA zone 9, can mark the beautiful variegations so we recommend a moveable container. Agave stricta - dwarf blue form From central northern Mexico at mid elevations and appearing as little, blue-green sea urchins, to only 6-10". A fine addition to a detailed area of the garden where moisture can be controlled and temperatures are not likely to drop below 18 to 20F, upper USDA zone 8, for any length of time. Otherwise a striking, small container plant for bright light. $18.00 Agave toumeyana var. bella toumey's century plant A rare and unusual plant with particularly dense rosettes, to 1 ft x 1 ft. The narrow, dark green leaves have striking white markings with decorative filifers or threads an added attraction. A colonizer from high elevations of central Arizona, this form makes a fine rock garden specimen if excellent drainage and bright light can be maintained. Protect from excess winter moisture. Cold hardy to -10F, USDA zone 6, or below in dry soil. Agave utahensis ssp. kaibabensis SBHMPS 6747 From the Tuweep area on cliffs and mountaintops on the northern edge of the Grand Canyon abyss amid junipers and beautiful red rocks... and far away from restaurants that serve alcohol, our collection of a particularly wide and long leaf form of the highly variable Utah agaves, producing nearly 18 rosettes of a cheery blue-green with dark, evenly set spines. I believe this colony to be under the form kaibabensis. These plants offset rather sparsely to make attractive clumps rather than colonies. After 10 years or so, flowers spikes rise to nearly 10 ft. Though one of the most frost hardy agaves, they do like their drainage, so in areas of high moisture, best placed in stone walls or under cover. Cold hardy to about -20F, USDA zone 5. Good container plant anywhere. ( = new to mail order list)

12 Agave utahensis v. eborispina Exquisite form, the most northern agave anywhere!, with 6-10" rosettes of chalky blue leaves dressed with ivory, corkscrew spines, sometimes black-tipped, up to 1.5" long. Ooooh! Offsets to form small clumps. Bright sun with very good drainage. Perfect for your limestone crevice. Frost hardy to well below 0F, USDA zone 7. (Did we mention really really good drainage?) 12 Agave victoriae-reginae 'Porcupine' This selection from Yucca Do Nursery has indeed white-tipped, porcupine quill-like leaves with gentle patterning on a symmetric plant (think of the shape of artichokes), making it a more dazzling creature than the typical Agave victoriae-reginae. Slow growing but worth the wait. Bright light, good drainage, and, preferably, protection from winter wet. Frost hardy to below 10 to 15F, USDA zone 8, depending on moisture. Agave victoriae-reginae var. compacta queen victoria agave A beautiful compact form of an ever-popular species. Each olive green rosette consists blunt, black-spined leaves marked with wide, silvery white striations. Each rosette grows to about 6" or less in width, clumping after a year or two. Bright light and good drainage. One of the hardier species, originally from near Saltillo in northern Mexico, it has been rated frost hardy to 10F, USDA zone 8, but has survived in dry winter places such as Denver to well below 0F, zone 7. If this makes you nervous, it makes a beautiful potted specimen. Agave x arizonica - cl 2 Wonderful endemic from central Arizona, almost undoubtedly a natural hybrid, originally from only a few plants growing among chaparral in miniature oaks and manzanita. This selection, given to us by the late agave God, Howard Scott Gentry, is of great ornamental and sentimental value to us. Rosettes are fairly slow growing, to 12" or so, with glossy green leaves edged in mahogany, slowly forming a colony to 2 ft across. Beautiful for rock garden, dry stone wall, or container. Not particularly fussy about moisture, though careful drainage and bright light are always a plus, and drier winter conditions can add several degrees. In our high desert, eastern Oregon garden survived a dip to -12F, upper zone 5, in 1990 under bone-dry conditions. $22.00 Agave x ferdinandi-regis This little century plant comes from one of the more exciting habitats in agaveland, a series of mountains northeast of Saltillo in northwestern Mexico where the beautiful A. victoriae-reginae crosses with both A. scabra and A. lechugilla. The form of this plant is particularly upright, its leaves marked white with a pinkish gray cast and topped with black spines. Reaching 12-18" and offsetting freely, it is hardy to between 0 and 10F, USDA zone 7, with excellent drainage. Full sun. Excellent pot specimen. Agave x gracilis The name A. gracilis applies to a group of plants in northwestern Texas into New Mexico, natural hybrids between A. lecheguilla and A. neomexicana. This forms blue-gray rosettes of narrow leaves with horizontal striping. Rosettes of about 12 make a dense colony if allowed. Bright light and average to gritty, well-drained soil. Collected in the Guadeloupe Mountains in southeastern New Mexico at 6200 ft making frost hardiness probable well into USDA zone 6. ( = new to mail order list)

13 Agave x leopoldii Compact and architectural century plant brought to us by Yucca Do Nursery, the narrow, slightly curved leaves with a gray-blue-going-green sheen complete with a few stripes and polka dots. Offsets eventually. A most attractive, small container plant, rarely growing more than 18, and a great addition to the dry or rock garden in a sunny site with gritty soil. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8, to 15F or so and as low as 10F if protected from overhead moisture. 13 Agave zebra From north central Mexico, this beautiful plant, with narrow leaves to 4 ft striped silver-blue and olive-green, makes a stunning pot or garden specimen. Though the plant does occasionally offset, offspring might be removed not only to propagate the plant but also to maintain the presence of an individual and solitary specimen. Not from as high elevation as some, A. zebra seems quite happy into the upper teens F, upper USDA zone 8, but can receive frost damage below. Winter drought or cover extends its hardiness lower. Best in full sun with excellent drainage. Akebia longeracemosa 'Victor's Secret' chocolate vine Most unusual for the genus with attractive evergreen leaves, almost butterfly-like, and racemes, to 5" or more, of vibrant pink flowers lasting a long season. Otherwise the same fascinating (intimidating?) fruit aging to a nearly metallic blue. All this on a vine of about 10 ft; not as vigorous as some others. Full sun for best flowering though perfectly at home in shade. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7, to just above 0F. Lardizabalaceae Allium senescens ssp. montanum 'August Confection' Small, NON invasive allium, a selection by plantsman Mark McDonough that forms small, handsome clumps of grassy foliage, to only 5" tall, and produces dark, ruddy pink flowers in mid to late summer. Sun to part shade and fairly drought tolerant though accepting of summer water as well. Frost hardy to at least 0F, USDA zone 7. $7.00 Alliaceae / Amaryllidaceae Alnus formosana [Tayuling 2004] formosana alder Native to Taiwan at mid to high elevations, this was of interest to us for its evergreen habit, the glossy green leaves holding fast, we expect, in temperatures down to 18 to 20F. Though loving damp conditions, these do not require quite the riparian situation of many alders. Fast growing, to ft tall, in sun to part shade with summer water. Stand back! Ultimate cold hardiness is not yet tested but these will remain healthy, though deciduous, to the bottom of USDA zone 8. Betulaceae Aloe Brass Hat A most wonderful Hummel hybrid with dark bronzy leaves and rosettes forming clumps of 6 to 1 ft adorned throughout the year with brassy orange flowers. The cross, as follows -- A. (A. haworthioides x A. bakeri) x ((A. descoingsii x A. calcairophylla) x A. bakeri) -- seems algebraic and daunting. The plants are not. Alas, frost hardy only to about 25F, mid USDA zone 9, so take precautions. Great container plant. Keep dry in winter. Xanthorrhoeaceae ( = new to mail order list)

14 14 Aloe Carmine TM Gorgeous aloe hybrid, a Proven Winners selection with rosettes of striking succulent leaves, red-edged with lots of small white spots overlaid with red spots, eventually reaching 6-8" tall x 8-12" wide. Best in well drained soil in full to part sun. Frost hardy only to 25F, mid USDA zone 9, so best kept in containers to be moved indoors in winter. Both heat and drought tolerant in the ground. Let potted plants dry a bit before watering. A nice addition to the succulent collection outdoors or in. Xanthorrhoeaceae Aloe Donnie TM Gorgeous aloe hybrid, a Proven Winners selection with rosettes of succulent leaves, these with small white spots and red edges, eventually reaching 2-4" tall and wide. Best in well drained soil in full to part sun. Frost hardy only to 25F, mid USDA zone 9, so best kept in containers to be moved indoors in winter. Both heat and drought tolerant in the ground. Let potted plants dry a bit before watering. A nice addition to the succulent collection outdoors or in. Xanthorrhoeaceae Aloe ecklonis grass aloe Hardy aloe from South Africa at 7,000 ft. A stemless aloe with lovely, erect, toothed leaves, up to 2 ft tall, and a short stalk of orange-red flowers in midsummer. Dies back in winter and returns in spring in any spot where it has excellent drainage and gritty soil. Best in full sun. Drought tolerant once established. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8...with that fabulous drainage! Xanthorrhoeaceae Aloe Guido TM Gorgeous aloe hybrid, a Proven Winners selection with rosettes of striking succulent leaves, white-edged with white markings - elongated spots -- on green, eventually reaching 6-8" tall and wide. Best in well drained soil in full to part sun. Frost hardy only to 25F, mid USDA zone 9, so best kept in containers to be moved indoors in winter. Both heat and drought tolerant in the ground. Let potted plants dry a bit before watering. A nice addition to the succulent collection outdoors or in. Xanthorrhoeaceae Aloe polyphylla spiral aloe One of the most endangered Aloe species, endemic to the high plains of the landlocked South African country of Lesotho at over 10,000 ft. Succulent leaves, pointed and toothed, form a single rosette, to 1 ft tall x 1-s ft wide, developing a wonderfully distinct spiral pattern as plants mature. Pink flowers appear on a 2 ft stem in early summer. Best in cool sun or part shade with abundant summer water. Accustomed to damp summers and dry winters, it is also one of the hardiest aloes, to 10F, the bottom of USDA zone 8 and lower if kept dry in the winter. $24.00 Xanthorrhoeaceae Aloe striatula Multi-trunked shrub from South Africa, the hardiest of the shrubby aloes. To over 3 ft tall and possibly up to 6 ft wide with dark green leaves, long, narrow, and pointed, and yellow flowers in spring and summer continuing into fall. Plant in sun where drainage is good. Top hardy to 18 F, upper USDA zone 8; has resprouted from 0F, zone 7, or below with mulch, good drainage, and protection from winter moisture. Xanthorrhoeaceae ( = new to mail order list)

15 Aloe variegata Unique small species from the high elevations of the South African Karoo, this collection from the Sutherland Plateau. Scarce in habitat, the partridge-striped, compact leaves, marbled and striking green and white, form small clumps under shrubs or in pots in captivity, producing up to 2 ft spikes of very large orange flowers in late summer. From higher elevations, this is one of the frost hardier aloes from an area that receives winter and summer rainfall, though not a whole bunch of it. In cultivation, certainly prefers gritty soil. Best in full sun, though dappled shade isn't a problem especially in hot climates. It has been tolerant of lower temperatures, to around 10 to 12F, bottom of USDA zone 8, briefly, possibly even colder if dry. Once a common grocery store plant, now difficult to find. 15 $11.00 Xanthorrhoeaceae Alstroemeria The Third Harmonic New hybrid, a cross by California's George Hare between A. 'Harmony' and A. aurantiaca, with dazzling flowers that open yellow-orange with markings of black stripes and darken to deeper orange with red on the backs of petals -- lots of words for a lovely flower that blooms throughout the year in warmer climates. Plants are vigorous, creating clumps of flower stalks rising to 3-4 ft with bright green leaves and large flower clusters. Sun to part shade with summer water for best, continuous blooms. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7 and possibly lower. A fine and long-lasting cut flower, best pulled rather than cut. Alstroemeriaceae Amaryllis belladonna naked lady A choice and deliciously fragrant flowering bulb to perfume the late summer garden with abundant light to dark pink trumpets on dark stems, to tall -- naked since the strappy leaves that appeared in winter have died back during the summer. Definitely a beautiful lady. Best in a Mediterranean climate with summer heat, good drainage and very little summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8 and in zone 7 with a bit of mulch. Amaryllidaceae Amorphophallus konjac voodoo lily This arum from southeast Asia is widely cultivated for its edible tuber but we grow it for the huge tropical looking leaves and "snakeskin" stem. In spring, long before the leaves appear, a huge and astonishing flower dazzles with a 2 ft, purple spadix standing above the purple-black spathe. (The "perfume", designed to attract flys for pollination, can be mitigated by simply rinsing the flower.) Plant stems and leaves develop after a well-deserved rest and can reach 6 ft tall in part sun to shade with regular summer water. Cold hardy to USDA zone 6. $9.00 Araceae Arctostaphylos 'Lutsko s Pink manzanita Evergreen shrub, upright to 4-7 ft tall, with a dense habit and handsome foliage of glossy green leaves. Spring flowers are typical manzanita small bells, these in abundant clusters of white blushed with pink. Best in full sun, lean and well-drained soil, and little to no summer water once established. A mixed hybrid including at least A. densiflora in its parentage, this was originally grown in a Lafayette, California garden and introduced by the designer, Bay area plantsman Ron Lutsko. Frost hardy to 10F, bottom of USDA zone 8. Ericaceae ( = new to mail order list)

16 16 Arctostaphylos silvicola SBH 7491 bonny doon manzanita A Cistus collection from Bonny Doon, California of this rare and endangered manzanita, endemic to California's Santa Cruz Mountains. A large, evergreen shrub that can reach 10 ft tall x 20 ft wide at maturity, these have smooth stems with dark red bark and pale, gray green, somewhat woolly leaves that are especially silvery, justifying a second common name, ghost manzanita. Summer flowers are white as well. Full sun to light shade, in lean soil with excellent drainage. Tolerant of occasional summer water once established if temperatures are not too hot. Frost hardy to 10 to 15F, USDA zone 8. Ericaceae Arctostaphylos x miwukka 'Blue Point' This selection, another choice by Allan Taylor from a lovely group of natural hybrids in Eldorado County California, is an evergreen mounding shrub, to 3 ft tall or a bit more, with particularly large pale blue leaves, to 3", on contrasting mahogany-red stems, to 4 ft, with peachy pink flowers in profusion from late winter to mid spring. Best in mineral soil that drains well in full sun with very little summer water once established. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6b. (A. x miwukka is a stable hybrid between A. viscida ssp. mariposa x A. patula.) Ericaceae Arctostaphylos x miwukka 'Blue Porcelain' This selection, another choice by Allan Taylor from a lovely group of natural hybrids in Eldorado County California, is an evergreen mounding shrub, to 3 ft tall or a bit more, of lovely jade-blue green leaves, 2" long and somewhat wider, on striking mahogany stems. Flowers in profusion with white bells in spring. Best in mineral soil that drains well in full sun with very little summer water once established. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6b. (A. x miwukka is a stable hybrid between A. viscida ssp. mariposa x A. patula.) Ericaceae Arctostaphylos x miwukka 'Chocolate Drop' This naturally occuring cross is a lovely celadon blue in appearance with contrasting mahogany stems, the pointed leaves, about 2" x 2", a perfect backdrop for the white flowers in early winter to spring. The fruit, the color of molle, nearly matches the muscular stems. This selection by Allan Taylor in California's Eldorado County at 5000 ft. Best in sun with good mineral soil and little summer water once established. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8. (A. x miwukka is a stable hybrid between A. viscida ssp. mariposa x A. patula.) Ericaceae Arisaema aff. fargesii One of the prettiest of the arisaemas -- we say this mostly because we have it -- this 24" perennial has been a beautiful and reliable addition to our shade garden it its compound leaves consisting of many narrow leaflets, in this form, banded in the center with silver. These can be late to emerge, sometimes not showing until late summer, so plant away from overactive shovels. Requires shade and summer dampness but no winter puddles. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7 possibly colder. Araceae ( = new to mail order list)

17 Arisaema consanguineum - silvered centered Shared with us some years ago by our friends the O Byrnes, these graceful jack-in-the-pulpits rise to nearly 3 ft in late spring with narrow graceful leaflets centered indeed silver. Flowers are deep cinnamon. Adds to its beauty by clumping quickly. Dappled shade is best with consistent summer moisture and, of course, decent drainage. A wonderful addition to the woodland garden or container. Frost hardy in the ground to 0F, USDA zone 7 or below. 17 Araceae Arisaema sp. - JSM [Fan Xi Pan, Vietnam] This collection from northern Vietnam by Joshua McCullough produces leaves of only about 18" in a pleasing spring-green. But more interesting are the late spring and summer, striped flowers with coloring nearly chocolate to yellow to light spring-green between the stripes. Shade, rich soil, and summer dampness are best, with good drainage for winter rains. Frost hardiness is as yet untested, but we assume at least USDA zone 8. Araceae Arisaema taiwanense taiwan cobra lily Extremely rare in commerce but we have a good supply from seeds collected by intrepid friends. The lizard-mottled stems bursts out of the woodland ground in April followed by dazzling, cobra-lily black flowers and mind-boggling, deeply cut, acid-flashback leaves. For shade to dappled shade in rich soil with average of summer water. Frost hardy in the ground in upper USDA zone 6, possibly lower. $24.00 Araceae Arisaema tortuosum whipcord cobra lily Surprising, strange, and wonderful Jack-in-the-pulpit from the Himalayas, making its garden appearance in June as a 4 ft tall stalk (actually a petiole!) from which two palmate green leaves unfurl, topped by the green flower, the "Jack" displaying a loooong, tongue, to 12+", that extends high above the "pulpit." Good soil and average summer water in light shade to shade in hottest climates. Frost hardy to at least USDA zone 6. $19.00 Araceae Aristolochia californica california pipevine This western native Dutchman's pipe, indigenous through western California and southwest Oregon, can be a vine to 8 ft or so or a happily scrambling specimen. Either way, it is deciduous, with 3, heart-shaped leaves and olive green stems that are quite attractive in their winter leaflessness. In spring and sometimes beyond into summer, light flowers appear -- the Dutchman's pipes of the common name -- often mottled or centered a maroon brown. Sun to part shade with afternoon protection in the hottest climates. Happy with extreme summer drought. Cold hardy to USDA zone 7. Host to the gorgeous blue Pipevine Swallowtail butterfly. Aristolochiaceae Artemisia ludoviciana 'Valerie Finnis' western mugwort From the famed British plantswoman of the same name, this lovely evergreen perennial, from about 18" to 4 ft tall, is perfect for a sunny location with very good drainage. Both erect stems and leaves are silver-white, adding contrast and texture. Summer flowers are yellow on tallish stems, not significant. Half to full sun. Though drought tolerant, occasional summer water replenishes the abundant foliage. Plants can be sheared to reshape. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6. Much prettier than its common name would suggest. $11.00 Asteraceae ( = new to mail order list)