1 Abutilon Fireball flowering maple Also known as A. x hybridum Fireball, this is one of the many lovely hybrids between A. darwinii and A. striatum, with maple-like leaves and bell-flowers whose petals are recurved, turning in slightly at the bottom. Flowers are fiery red, as one would imagine, with prominent red veins accenting the surface. Happy plants can reach 8-10 ft tall, though pruning easily adjusts the size. Best with plentiful summer water and fertilizer. Less hardy than many, preferring temperatures that only occasionally drop into the 20sF, USDA zone 9. Placement out of wind with overhead protection and plentiful mulch help in less than balmy climates. 5x 6in @ $11 Malvaceae Abutilon 'Furious Yellow' flowering maple Named by our own Maureen Caviness, this Cistus Nursery hybrid produces bright, "Big Bird" yellow flowers on black stems on a fairly compact plant, to 4-5 ft. Likes partial shade, ample moisture, and good drainage. Great in the ground with mulch in fall to ensure winter survival or in container. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 8. 8x 6in @ $11 Malvaceae Acanthus mollis bear s breech Perhaps one of the best plants for dryish shade, this large-leaved perennial is famous for decorating the tops of Corinthian columns. Large translucent mauve-sea foam spiky flowers in summer. Very architectural. Easy & frost hardy at least to USDA zone 8. 6x 1g @ $11 Acanthaceae Adiantum venustum himalayan madenhair fern Striking maidenhair fern with lacy foliage that emerges bronzy pink and ages to a gentle green that stands out again the black stems. To only 6 tall, spreading slowly by underground rhizomes to form a clump up to 3 ft across. Light shade with plentiful moisture is best and encourages faster growth. Evergreen to the mid teens F, mid USDA zone 8 and root hardy to at least 20F, USDA zone 5. Also does well in containers, indoors and out. 8x 6in @ $11 Pteridaceae Aesculus californica [Oregon collection] california buckeye Large deciduous shrub to small tree, typically multi-stemmed, native to dry slopes in California and southwestern Oregon. Compound leaves have 5 leaflets, dark green and finely toothed. Hummingbirds love the cylindrical panicles of sweet-scented, creamy white flowers, pink tinged in early summer. The fig-shaped fruits that follow open to a stunning, shiny chestnut...of the non-edible sort. Accepts summer moisture and tolerates heat and summer drought, often beginning to drop leaves in mid summer. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. 3x 2g @ $24 Hippocastanaceae
2 Agave americana 'Opal' opal century plant A variegated agave from the larger group often just called Marginata or Variegata, this one most pleasingly variegated in creamy yellow on upright, blue-green foliage with sharp spines. To 4-5 ft tall and wide. Shared with us by plantsman Tony Avent as having been hardy in coastal Virginia. hough it has been nuked in North Carolina below 10F with winter moisture, it does show promise as being one of the tougher of the americana group as a very similar plant has grown unharmed in Portland gardens for a number of years. We expect at least 15F, mid USDA zone 8, and possibly lower if winter dry. In any zone a striking pot or container plant. Sun, well-drained soil, and little summer water. 8x 6in @ $15 Agavaceae Agave bracteosa spider agave Looking more like a bromeliad, this agave s lax, spineless leaves are very choice. Polycarpic and rare in cultivation, these plants, found clinging to the high rocky mountains between Saltillo and Monterey in NE Mexico growing with pines and, yes, even Douglas fir, love the cool summer nights of the Northwest. Slow growing, each rosette to 1 ft tall x 18" wide, gradually forming a wider clump. Sun to part shade in well drained soil with occasional summer water. Frost hardy to 10F, USDA zone 8, when kept dry in winter. 5x 2g @ $24 Agavaceae 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. 8x 6in @ $14 Agavaceae 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. 8x 6in @ $16 Agavaceae
3 Agave gentryi Jaws From an intriguing group in an even more intriguing part of the world, northeastern Mexico's Sierra La Peña, a floristically rich part of the world. Three agaves inhabit the upper slopes from 8-9,000 ft, this one now being settled on the species A. gentryi. Beautiful gray-green rosettes of sharply pointed leaves with jagged serrations and embossed impressions of the older leaves on each emerging new. This selection was made by the Yucca Do boys in the early 1990s and has been very slow to offset. To about 24-36" or more eventually, this selection, found amid pines and oaks in light shade on rubbly limestone outcrops, has taken a myriad of garden conditions. Quite happy in dappled shade but beware of wet leaves sitting in the crown in winter. It is exquisitely beautiful for the deeply indented leaf margins and double, reddish teeth. So far, unharmed in upper USDA zone 7 winters. 4x 2g @ $38 Agavaceae Agave montana mountain agave One of the most sculptural century plants from high elevations in Mexico, this is often sandwiched between the larger, higher elevation Agave gentryi and the lower elevation Agave scabra and can show characteristics of both growing with pines and oaks. 1.5-2 ft, heavily toothed rosettes are deep olive-green brushed with blue. Accepts average garden moisture provided excellent drainage. Sun; adapts to partial shade. 0 to 10F. 3x 2g @ $38 Agavaceae 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. 5x 1g @ $16 Agavaceae Agave ovatifolia 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 pinyon/juniper/oak country above 8000 ft, the exceedingly wide, beautifully toothed and chalky blue rosettes 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. 3x 2g @ $32 Agavaceae
4 Agave x leopoldii Compact and most architectural century plant brought to us by Yucca Do Nursery with narrow, slightly curved leaves, 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. 8x 6in @ $16 Agavaceae 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. 8x 6in @ $18 Liliaceae Aloe Jimmy TM Gorgeous aloe hybrid, a Proven Winners selection with rosettes of succulent leaves, white edged with with lots of small white spots, 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. 8x 6in @ $18 Liliaceae 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. 5x 1g @ $12 Liliaceae
5 Aquilegia vulgaris 'Black Barlow' columbine Fabulous dark, nearly black-purple flowers mark this columbine, bred for the cut flower trade and perfect in the garden with a bit of shade. Foliage is blue green and delicate on stems to 20" tall in clumps to 12" wide. Best in rich soil with average summer water. Frost hardy to -20, USDA zone 6. Arctostaphylos bakeri 'Louis Edmunds' manzanita Another great Manzanita... evergreen with round, gray-green leaves and smooth, burgundy-purple bark on a shrub to about 6 ft tall by 4 ft wide. Clear pink blossoms in spring are followed by dusky red berries. Full sun, average soil, summer drought tolerant when established. Great on neglected slopes and hillsides. Cold hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7. 11x 1g @ $16 Ericaceae Arctostaphylos densiflora 'Sentinel' manzanita One of our favorite manzanitas with dark mahogany bark, felted new growth aging to deep green, pink flowers in spring, and little green berries in summer. A great evergreen shrub (to 5 ft high and wide) for a slope or a well-drained sunny spot. Can be tipped to encourage dense growth. Hardy to 5F - mid USDA zone 7. 8x 1g @ $16 Ericaceae Arctostaphylos manzanita 'St. Helena' From Napa Valley in California, a beautiful form of a very useful genus in the west -- plants to 6 ft or so in time, or to 10ft if helped along a bit. Deep green leaves of only about 1 and dark mahogany stems. The late winter flowers are white aging to shell pink. Very happy with summer drought, but also, unlike many manzanitas, willing to tolerate some summer garden water -- but only some so best not to overdue it. Mineral soil is best and full sun to dappled shade. Sadly, intolerant of conditions in the east coast states.like North Carolina and Idaho. Low USDA zone 8. 10x 1g @ $16 Ericaceae Arctostaphylos nummularia - select form An unusual selection of an unusual species, this handsome Arctostaphylos is compact, to only 2-3 ft tall, with rounded, shiny leaves - evergreen, of course -- and those striking red stems. Spring flowers are white in small clusters. To 4 ft tall x 4 ft wide. Accepts occasional summer water in bright light to a bit of shade with well-drained, lean soil. Does well in coastal conditions. Frost hardy to 10F, USDA zone 8. 10x 1g @ $14 Ericaceae
6 Arisaema ringens f. sieboldii Impress your friends, scare the neighbors with this must-have, Japanese, jack-in-the-pulpit, with large, tropicalismo-esque trifoliate leaves to over 18" and striped flowers in mauve, white and black. Clumps rather quickly. Best in the woodland garden with moist, fertile soil. Comes up late March and goes dormant in warm weather. A poster child hortisexual plant. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. One of the easiest yet, strangely, seldom available. 8x 4D @ $16 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. 4x 6in @ $24 Araceae Arisaema taiwanense - silver leaved form cobra lily The pewter-leafed form of this iconic cobra lily. An umbrella of steely leaflets above the sinister black purple flower on a python stem. Later pollinated plants (they can be either sex, or both, at will) will produce red berries that persist through the winter. 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. 8x 6in @ $28 Araceae Astrolepis sinuata wavy cloak fern A fern that loves sunny dry places. From the desert southwest comes these luxurious clumps gray-sage-green leaves with felty, orange undersides. To 1-2 ft tall eventually and evergreen to semi-evergreen. Full sun to dappled shade with excellent drainage and lean, gritty soil. Best placed where air circulation is good and the roots can remain cool, perhaps in a rock garden. Drought tolerant but enjoys occasional summer water. Cold hardy from 0F, USDA zone 7. 8x 6in @ $14 Pteridaceae
7 Beesia deltophylla Very nice small, evergreen groundcover from China with shiny, heart-shaped leaves and spikes of white flowers in late summer. Lovely vein patterns add texture to the leathery foliage. Plants form clumps 18 wide x 1 ft tall in dappled shade to full shade. Tolerant of many soils but best planted in areas that are consistently moist and well-drained soil. Creates a good backdrop for other shade loving perennials. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6. 8x 6in @ $14 Ranunculaceae Callistemon pallidus 'Eleanor' bottlebrush Deep violet-red flowers, early and gorgeous, adorn this garden seedling selected by Paul Bonine of Xera Plants. An upright shrub with blue-leaved, arching branches, reaching 6 ft tall x 4 ft wide in 5 years. Full sun, well-drained soil, and little water once established. Frost hardy in the Portland area for several years, with no damage at 12F, USDA zone 8. Resprouts from lower temperatures. 7x 6in @ $14 Myrtaceae Campanula garganica Dickson s Gold Shared with us by Hedgerow s Nursery, this dwarf golden foliaged bellflower knits nicely between paving stones or at the edge of a border. Pale starry blue flowers cover the plant in summer. Full sun brings out best color. Do not allow to be swamped by other perennials. 6 by 24 or more. Evergreen. Campanulaceae Ceanothus arboreus 'Trewithen Blue' A Cornwall selection of this Catalina Island endemic and, as far as we know, the largest of the genus. Small garden tree, to 12 ft, with rounded crown and 3 leaves, rounded and pleasingly blue on the undersides. Flowers are a rich blue and slightly larger than the species. Sun with good drainage. Can take some garden water but don t overdo it. Keep out of drying wind (and the Eastern 9/10s of North America). Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 8. 6x 2g @ $26 Rhamnaceae Ceanothus 'Concha' california lilac One of the large and gorgeous ceanothus shrubs, evergreen to 6 ft tall and spreading to 10 ft or more. Small, dark leaves and flowers that are red in bud and open to dark blue in early summer. Best in sun with lean soil and very little summer water once established. Frost hardy to USDA zone 8. 5x 2g @ $24 Rhamnaceae
8 Ceanothus gloriosus v. exaltatus 'Emily Brown' When looking for a ground covering ceanothus, Emily pops her head up first. Fast growing and mounding to 3 ft x 10 ft wide with evergreen, holly-like leaves and deep purple-blue flowers in spring. A selection of coastal ceanothus. Very garden tolerant, much more so than other ceanothus. Sun to light shade; drought tolerant once established. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. 5x 2g @ $22 Rhamnaceae Ceanothus griseus Diamond Heights Low growing, evergreen shrub, the leaves pale yellow-green with dark green centers, reaches 1 ft tall x 3-4 ft wide in the dry half-shaded garden where there's shade protection from hottest afternoon sun. Lean, well-drained soil is best and little summer water once established. Spring flowers are typical ceanothus, pale blue and attractive to bees. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8, handling the latest cold spells easily in good growing conditions. 8x 1g @ $14 Rhamnaceae Ceanothus griseus var. horiz. Holy Guacamole A prostrate Ceanothus selected by Champion Acres Nursery for its bright yellow-green leaves. Pale blue flowers appear in spring. Full sun and well-drained soil is best. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. 6x 1g @ $14 Rhamnaceae Ceanothus Italian Skies A spectacular ceanothus, a wild selection, by David Frost of Native Sons Nursery, from the southern coastal California range. Tops out at about 6 ft tall and, in spring, cascades into a delicious mass of medium blue flowers. An extremely popular selection in -- surprise-- Italy. Sun, well-drained soil, and little summer water once established. Cold hardy to USDA zone 8. 5x 2g @ $24 Rhamnaceae Cercis occidentalis california or western redbud Lovely small tree or large shrub, 10-15 ft tall x 12 ft wide, from the southwestern USA. Leathery rounded leaves, green with paler undersides. Clusters of rose-pink flowers in spring. Little summer water once established. Cold hardy in USDA zone 5-9. 6x 2g @ $26 Fabaceae
9 Cheilanthes argentea silver cloak fern This fragile looking fern, native to rocky outcrops in China and Japan, is far from a wimp. Drought tolerant, easy, and gorgeous with fronds that are glittering green above and a ghostly, silver-white below. Best in walls, rock gardens, or containers, anywhere excellent drainage can be provided. Said to be deer resistant. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4. 8x 6in @ $14 Pteridaceae Cheilanthes lendigera beaded lip form This native of the US southwest into Mexico and further south is awesome in the garden, happy in sun and well-drained soil for protection against winter wet. To 12-20" tall, the evergreen fronds bright green on top with undersides both silvery and, well, hairy. Sun to part shade with some summer moisture, though tolerant of dryish conditions. Can go deciduous with prolonged drought but recovers. These, a Cistus collection from Arizona. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8. 8x 6in @ $14 Pteridaceae Clematis cirrhosa Wisley Cream Vigorous, evergreen, winter-flowering vine with bell shaped creamy flowers in profusion November through March. Plant out of winter winds, in full to half sun or where it can get its head into sun. Normal water with good drainage. Very nice in containers. Cold hardy to USDA zone 8. 3x 2g @ $24 Ranunculaceae Clematis japonica Bokonomosho Having retrieved this lovely clematis from Japan some time ago and left it growing happily away in our..less than tended area or stock house, we finally decided we needed more. A diminutive vine, to under 6-8 ft, this form is deciduous with beautifully variegated cream, white and green leaves and pale blue flowers in mid spring. A delicate creature, so would prefer to be planted near or, shall we say, on a shrub or trellis protected from the hottest afternoon sun, where the soil is medium in richosity, does not severely dry out, and is not likely to be disturbed. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6. 8x 6in @ $15 Ranunculaceae
10 Cordyline australis 'Pink Champagne' A green-leaved cordyline, despite the name, with narrow, upright leaves of pale green edged in white and blushed pink near the base -- looking a bit sun splashed. A newer selection, so far slow growing to only 2-6 ft tall x 3-4 ft wide. Does will in full sun on the coast with wind protection or part shade inland with protection from the hottest sun. Somewhat drought tolerant, especially on the coast, but appreciated occasional to regular summer water. Frost hardy to 15F, mid USDA zone 8. Mulch for extra winter protection and wrap for extreme weather. Resprouts from the base. 10x 2g @ $26 Liliaceae Cornus sericea 'Hedgerows Gold' red twig dogwood Bright red stems color the winter landscape after the leaves are gone. This deciduous shrub, to 6 x 6 ft, has green leaves with an irregular golden edge, foliage that brings summer colors as well. Best in bright light with protection from afternoon s hottest sun. Regular summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4. 14x 6in @ $14 Cornaceae Daphne x burkwoodii - low form burkwood daphne Low form of a classic daphne, to 2 ft tall with narrow, 1" green leaves. White flowers, custardy sweet, appear in late winter through mid spring. Perfect for the entrance garden. Evergreen and dense enough to be a fine small hedge. Sun to part shade with good drainage and consistent moisture. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 6 with reports of much colder places, perhaps zone 4 in protected sites. 8x 6in @ $16 Thymelaeaceae Daphne x burkwoodii - low form burkwood daphne Low form of a classic daphne, to 2 ft tall with narrow, 1" green leaves. White flowers, custardy sweet, appear in late winter through mid spring. Perfect for the entrance garden. Evergreen and dense enough to be a fine small hedge. Sun to part shade with good drainage and consistent moisture. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 6 with reports of much colder places, perhaps zone 4 in protected sites. 4x 1g @ $16 Thymelaeaceae Dodecatheon hendersonii shooting star Lovely Sacramento and Willamette Valley native shooting star, related to and the closest thing we can get to a native cyclamen. The 6 rosette of leaves emerges in late autumn after the first rains and dainty, deep pink flowers, their petals held back, begin as early as the first of March on through late spring, later with careful watering. We recommend allowing to dry in summer. Full sun to only dappled shade with lean soil will allow them to naturalize. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5. 20x 4D @ $9 Primulaceae
11 Echeveria Black Prince There can never be too many black plants and, if you consider black to be the new beige, as we do, this is a must have. An exquisite garden plant especially as background for such creatures as blue leaved yuccas or agaves. Where temperatures frequently fall to 20ºF or below, they are fine as small container plants. The dense rosettes of pointed leaves are a chocolate to purple-black, darkening with frost or bright light. Bright orange flowers in spring and summer. Simple requirements: a free draining soil drying in winter and bright light. A hybrid between E. shaviana and E. affinis. Frost hardy in USDA zone 9. 5x 6in @ $12 Crassulaceae Echium candicans Star of Madeira Fabulous plant, forming rosettes of variegated leaves, white on the edges. Very nice in their own right but add the panicles of blue flowers in spring and early summer to make a striking addition to the garden. Sun, well-drained soil and little summer water. To 4 ft tall and 3 ft wide. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 8. 5x 2g @ $18 Boraginaceae Echium candicans Star of Madeira Fabulous plant, forming rosettes of variegated leaves, white on the edges. Very nice in their own right but add the panicles of blue flowers in spring and early summer to make a striking addition to the garden. Sun, well-drained soil and little summer water. To 4 ft tall and 3 ft wide. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 8. 12x 1g @ $11 Boraginaceae Eryngium bourgatii mediterranean sea holly Steel blue flowers and prickly green leaves with distinctive white markings make this an especially attractive perennial for the garden border. Leaves are striking when they emerge in spring to form a base for the 2 ft flower stalks of thistle-like, summer flowers. For full sun and sandy or well-drained soil. Accepting of summer water but a long tap root makes them both drought tolerant and difficult to transplant. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4. 20x 4D @ $6 Apiaceae Eucalyptus archeri alpine cider gum Hardy, quick, tall, stately and delicate all at the same time. One of the best choices for the small Pacific Northwest garden, this multi-trunked, small tree tops out at about 30 ft. Small blue-greenish gray leaves flutter in the breeze. Bark is smooth and colors range from white to gray-green. Sun, well drained soil and very little summer water. Frost hardy easily to 5F -- USDA zone 7. Yum. 5x 2g @ $22 Myrtaceae
12 Euphorbia myrsinites donkeytail spurge Evergreen perennial, to only 4-8" tall, with blue-green, succulent leaves in spirals around the upturned stems. Blossoms -- actually yellow bracts -- are showy in spring. Sun and soil that drains well, including rocky or sandy spots. This southern European native needs little summer water once established. Frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5. 16x 6in @ $12 Euphorbiaceae Farfugium japonicum 'Giganteum giant leopard plant "Wild collected" at a hotel in San Juan, Argentina (with permission of course). An over-the-top evergreen perennial from Japan, the rounded leaves exceeding 2 ft with a deep green, glossy finish and an oaky aftertaste. Forms clumps to 1/5 ft tall x 3 ft wide topped by yellow, daisy-like flowers that just aren't the point. It's the foliage! Part shade to shade in well-drained soil with consistent summer moisture. Frost hardy to below 20F, upper USDA zone 8, with mulch. 8x 6in @ $18 Asteraceae Fatsia japonica japanese aralia Bold foliage for a shady spot. This garden workhorse is perfect for the hard to maintain area. Evergreen, multi-stemmed shrub to 10 ft with glossy green, palmate leaves, often up to 10 across. Whitish flowers (not so showy, but interesting and great good for birds) are followed by black berries. A staple of area dentist office landscapes that can be transformed and transforming in the garden. Regular summer water. Fully frost hardy in USDA zone 8. 4x 2g @ $18 Araliaceae Fatsia japonica 'Spider Web' speckled japanese aralia A wonderful variegated form of the original Japanese aralia with typically palmate leaves that emerge spreckled overall in cream and white and mature to light green with white variegations. To 5 ft tall, this Japanese selection does well in shade or with morning sun, enjoying consistent summer water for best performance. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 7 and a fine houseplant in colder climates. 8x 6in @ $18 Araliaceae Feijoa sellowiana pineapple guava This gorgeous large shrub or small tree from southwestern Brazil and northern Argentina can be maintained as a shrub at 6 ft or pushed along into a tree of upwards of 12 ft. The attractions -- evergreen leaves backed in a powdery silver, orange-red shredding bark, and sweetly edible white petals surrounding a boss of red stamens. Also, delicious fruit in a good year if a partner is nearby. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8. 10x 1g @ $14 Myrtaceae
13 Fuchsia 'Autumnale' One of our favorites, with leaves of golden orange and sometimes pinky maroon. It is lovely for the foliar effect alone but produces deep cerise flowers as well. Low growing to about 2 ft, it is a good spiller. This has been hardy for us in the ground, but we would not consider it the hardiest of fuchsias. At its best in containers where other golden and maroon foliage is used. Full sun in coastal climates to dappled shade elsewhere. Ground hardy in USDA zone 8 or above. 8x 6in @ $11 Onagraceae Galium odoratum sweet woodruff Small groundcover, to only 6-12" tall, form clumps that spread slowly at the edges. Clusters of white flowers hover above the plants in May and early June, brightening the shady garden. Foliage is fine-textured and aromatic when crushed, hence the common name of sweetscented bedstraw. Shade to part shade in rich soil with consistent summer water to maintain moisture. Can go summer dormant if dry. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5. 18x 1g @ $4 Rubiaceae Geranium phaeum Darkest of All An extremely dark flowered geranium, to 20 tall. An easy ground cover in part shade. Blooms from late April to early June, the maroon flowers echoing spots on the handsome foliage. Average soil and regular summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6. 8x 6in @ $12 Geraniaceae Geranium phaeum Lily Lovell' Hardy "Mourning Widow" geranium with deep blue-purple ruffled flowers in May to June. Grows to about 2 ft tall and spreads to about 2 ft wide. A perennial that loves moist, rich soil in shade to part shade. Deciduous they can be cut back for winter. Frost hardy to -30F, USDA zone 4. 8x 6in @ $12 Geraniaceae Geranium sessiliflorum Red Select Grown for its chocolate brown leaves edge in silver with white flowers in summer a nice addition. To 8" tall spreading to 2 ft wide, these are wonderful wandering through a garden or combined in containers, perhaps with gold leaved plants. Most compact in full sun but fine in part shade. Regular summer water. Can be cut back hard in winter. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7. 8x 6in @ $12 Geraniaceae
14 Geum chiloense 'Lady Stratheden' One of the lovely geums, this with yellow flowers, semi-double and very cheerful, above green, low-growing foliage. Long-blooming, beginning in summer and continuing into autumn, especially if deadheaded. Sun to part shade with regular summer water. Evergreen into the teens F, and root hardy in USDA zone 5. Geum 'Mrs. Bradshaw' Another cheerful geum, this with showy, semi-double flowers in bright orangey red. A good color spot or filler in the border. Sun to part shade with average summer moisture for best performance though tolerates some drought. Well-drained soil protects against winter wetness. Frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5. avens Rosaceae Hakonechloa macra 'All Gold The all yellow version of a garden standard in these parts. Lushly filling up an 18 diameter by midsummer, it can take rather a lot of sun or dark dark shade. Best half sun, with water. Clumping and rather slow to establish, so be patient. I know it s hard. 6x 6in @ $15 Poaceae Humulus lupulus Aureus golden hops Bright yellow leaves on this vigorous vine that can reach 20 ft in a season.. White florwers in mid-summer to early autumn followed by light green hops in autumn. Stems die to the gound in winter and can be trimmed off completely. Part shade is best to avoid bleaching the leaves. Frost hardy to USDA zone 5. 12x 1g @ $12 Cannabaceae Hydrangea macrophylla 'Sun Goddess' 'Sun Goddess' is also known as 'Lemon Zest' and 'Yellow Leaf' -- confirming that, indeed, this is a yellow foliage hydrangea, a shrub to 4 ft x 4 ft with mophead flowers, pink to blue (with sufficient acidity). For a bright garden accent, protect from hottest afternoon sun and provide summer moisture. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8, upper zone 7 in a protected spot. 6x 2g @ $24 Hydrangeaceae
15 Hydrangea serrata O-amacha Nishiki' Rare and unusual, strikingly variegated hydrangea in greens and golds, this form selected by the late JC Raulston at the NC State University Arboretum that now bears his name. Deciduous shrub to 4 ft tall and wide with summer lacecap flowers of white florets blushed pink. Can take full sun on the coast but best protected from the harshest afternoon sun inland. Rich soil and summer water everywhere. Frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 6. 8x 6in @ $14 Hydrangeaceae Impatiens omeiana A handsome, hardy dwarf impatiens, winter deciduous, with cream-yellow flowers hidden by the handsomely variegated foliage. Reaches 8-10 tall and spreads slowly but has not seeded around. Part shade to shade with regular moisture. Very well behaved and frost hardy, resprouting in USDA zone 7, and possibly lower, with mulch. 8x 4in @ $6 Balsaminaceae Impatiens omeiana 'Silver Pink' This wonderful new selection of the Mt. Omei impatiens spreads slowly into a dense colony of 6" bronzy stems, and gorgeous leaves a dark bronzy green sprinkled with silver like fairy dust and central veins in pink that darkens and spills into the leaf. Yum. Mustard to salmon flowers a great contrast from late summer to frost. Shade to deep shade in moist soil with, of course, summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. 5x 6in @ $16 Balsaminaceae Jasminum mesnyi Full Moon primrose jasmine Also known as Jasminum primulinum, a mounding shrub to 4-5 ft or a vine to 10 ft or more, these with green leaves tipped in gold, creating a cheerful presence. Sun for best color but very adaptable to shade. Flowers are pale yellow appearing from spring through autumn. Drought tolerant though appreciates occasional summer water in dry climates. Frost hardy to 10F, the bottom of USDA zone 8. 8x 6in @ $16 Oleaceae Kerria japonica Variegata - dwarf form Not your grandmother s Kerria. This dwarf form, from Siskiyou Rare Plants, has green leaves edge and splashed white and single, bright yellow flowers in spring on a very restrained, deciduous shrub - to only 2-3 ft tall and wide. Tough and dependable in full sun to half shade with summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4. 12x 4D @ $14 Rosaceae
16 Knautia macedonica 'Mars Midget' Dwarf, scabiosa relative, to only 16" tall and wide, with ruby red flowers from early summer through autumn -- more if deadheaded. Best in full sun to to part shade in well-drained soil with regular summer moisture. A die back perennial that returns in the spring. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5. Lavandula stoechas Curly Top' spanish lavender Handsome lavender, to 3 ft tall by 2 ft wide, with long stems and violet-blue flowers with twisted bracts of purple violet. Drought tolerant in sun and well-drained soil. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. 10x 2g @ $16 Lamiaceae Lavandula stoechas 'Otto Quast' spanish lavender Small, evergreen shrub, 1-2 ft tall x 2-3 ft wide, with inch long leaves, very gray-green, and purple flowers from early spring to late summer and occasionally all year. Like all lavenders, likes full sun and well-drained soil with only occasional summer water. This form, found by Otto Quast and introduced by California's Homestead Nursery, is frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7. 10x 2g @ $16 Lamiaceae Ledebouria 'Gary Hammer' spotted squill A whacked out version of the common squill, this Mexican form is better in foliage than in flower. The flowers are a pale blue and proliferate, but the foliage is spotted and lasts for up to three months. Dry summers are best, but not required. Frost hardy to less than 10F, below USDA zone 8. Slow to propagate, but worth the wait. 8x 4in @ $7 Liliaceae Lewisia cotyledon - Intense Colors bitteroot One of northern California and southern Oregon s most beautiful native wildflowers. These have been hybridized into an eye popping range of colors. Nice evergreen rosettes as well. Give these plants sun and excellent drainage and enjoy the show. May go deciduous in too much heat or cold, but they are hardy in USDA zone 4. 3x 6in @ $11 Portulacaceae Lonicera periclymenum 'Flora Rubra Most lovely of deciduous vines, to 10 ft or so, with leaves emerging burgundy in spring aging to pinkish blushed with powdery blue. Highly fragrant.coral pink flowers fading as they age to cream. Often asked for when seen in the garden. Full sun for best flowers. Average to really yucky garden soil. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5. 5x 1g @ $14 Caprifoliaceae
17 Lonicera periclymenum Honeybush Improved This really aromatic honeysuckle has been around a while and remains one of the best, though not always as available as it might be. A compact grower, to 8-10 ft, with purple tinted leaves and salmon pink flowers aging to creamy orange, it is a must have for a lover of fragrance.the flowers begin mid spring and continue on and off all summer fading to a nice set of bluish black berries in autumn. We find summer drought and leanish soil makes the plant more compact and the leaves more pinkish purple. Sun to half shade and decently drained soil. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5 we expect. 8x 6in @ $14 Caprifoliaceae Loropetalum chinense - Japanese variegated form Striking and interesting Chinese witch hazel, shared with us by Dan Heims from one of his many plant finding trips to Asia. These have both purple leaves and variegated leaves as well as deep pink flowers in late winter and early spring. Best in full to part sun with average summer water. Expected to be frost hardy in USDA zone 8. 1x 2g @ $28 Hamamelidaceae Loropetalum chinense Pipa s Red chinese fringe flower A particularly popular fringe flower and probably the darkest leaved cultivar available. Gorgeous by itself, but add the cerise-pink flowers in late spring for true love. Evergreen. Reaches 8-10 ft eventually, but easily kept as a low spreading shrub. Even moisture, dappled shade to full sun, well-drained soil. USDA zone 7; zone 8 in areas lacking summer heat. 5x 1g @ $14 Hamamelidaceae Magnolia laevifolia 'Copperstop' Our selection from seeds collected at a temple in southern China and shared with us by Roger Warner. Particularly furry stems and leaves, along with abundant 1.5", white and very fragrant flowers for long periods of time in spring and again in fall set this plant apart from the species. Easily kept as an espalier or shrub, it can be trained to a single leader and grow to as tall as 12 ft where the coppery leaf undersides can be admired. Happy and compact in full sun but just as at home, though much more airy, in dappled shade. Even moisture and generous nutrients. USDA zone 7. 3x 5g @ $52 Magnoliaceae
18 Metasequoia glyptostroboides 'Ogon' golden dawn redwood This gorgeous, golden-foliage, Japanese selection of the living fossil tree, dawn redwood is somewhat less monsterous in size than its green kin. Medium to fast growing. eventually to 100 ft tall x 15 ft wide in as many years. Full to part sun with adequate summer water and well-drained soil. Winter deciduous. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5. 5x 2g @ $37 Taxodiaceae Mukdenia rossii Ground-covering perennial, a Heuchera relative from China discovered by the late plantsman, Steve Doonan. Slowly clumping, to 1 ft x 1 ft, in well-drained soil with generous water until established. Quite drought tolerant thereafer. Leaves are a bright, shiny green and the white spring flowers make a nice contrast. Sun to part shade. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4. 8x 6in @ $14 Saxifragaceae Musa basjoo 'Thin Red Line' hardy fiber banana One of the boldest plants we sell. After 3 years, 20 ft stems with 10 ft long leaves and drooping branches of huge yellow flowers followed by real (insipid) bananas. Full to part sun, serious irrigation and heavy fertilizer. Plant 6" deeper than the soil in the nursery pot. Protect trunk from severe freezing with mulch or wrapping. Leaves frost back below 30 degrees F and trunk is hardy into the teens. Established plants are root hardy to USDA zone 6. 8x 6in @ $18 Musaceae Origanum vulgare 'Aureum' golden creeping oregano A steppable oregano, to only 10" tall in clumps to 18" wide, but easily kept shorter by mowing or trimming. Nice, yellow, aromatic foliage brightens any place that has full to part sun. Produces white flowers in summer. Shearing immediately after flowering encourages new foliage. No summer water once established. Frost hardy to -20, USDA zone 6. 18x 4in @ $3 Lamiaceae Ozothamnus 'County Park Silver' Prostrate, silver-leaved shrub to only 2 tall but reaching 1 ft wide. Evergrey and handsome year-round in full sun and very well-drained soil -- say on a slope. Occasional summer water. Mid-summer flowers are insignificant... Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 7. 18x 4in @ $5 Asteraceae
19 Papaver spicatum turkish spike poppy This underused perennial boasts a 20 hollyhock-like flower spike of creamy apricot which emerges from a tight clump of light green foliage. June to July blooms give way to summer dormancy before an autumn awakening. Prefers rich, well-drained soil and regular summer water. 8x 6in @ $12 Papaveraceae Pelargonium 'Chocolate Mist' For the chocolate lovers, a plant with the aroma of chocolate mint. A spreading perennial, to 2 ft tall and 4 ft wide, with leaves that emerge soft green with dark maroon blotches that fade to deep green over the summer. Panicles of pale flowers with pink markings add to the excitement. Full sun for best color with occasional to regular summer water. Frost hardy to only the mid 20s F, mid USDA zone 9, so best in pots to be brought indoors or saved through cuttings. Pelargonium 'Variegated Mint' scented geraniums Scented geraniums are a must-have for the summer porch or patio. This one, with hints of mind, also has variegated foliage and pink flowers in summer. Not at all frost hardy so enjoy for the summer in sun with summer water, keep in a container for a sweet smelling, winter houseplant, or take cuttings in the fall to winter over. But definitely enjoy. Phlox subulata 'Candy Stripe' creeping phlox Good ground cover, bright and cheerful in spring when plants are covered with white flowers striped in pink. Evergreen and low-growing, to 4" tall x 2 ft across eventually, in sun to part shade. Prefers sandy, well-drained soil and tolerates hot plants. Said to be deer resistant and tolerant of summer humidity. Frost hardy in USDA zone 3. Polemoniaceae Pittosporum tenuifolium Gold Star kohuhu Yet another selection, this a compact, evergreen shrub with bright, cheerful foliage, olive green centrally splashed golden, on black stems, and intensely fragrant, tiny white flowers in spring. o 4 ft tall or so and as wide. Full sun in milder climates to part shade in hot, dry areas. Likes well-drained soil and some summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8a. 4x 2g @ $24 Pittosporaceae
20 Podophyllum pleianthum chinese may apple An outstanding addition to the shade garden. Huge leaves appear in spring, starry saucer-shaped with high, dark green gloss on stems to 3 ft tall, forming clumps to 3 ft wide. Wonderful, dangling burgundy flowers in spring are followed by yellow fruit. To 3 ft tall and as wide. Best in shade with regular summer water, as drought stress may trigger early dormancy. Winter dormant and frost hardy in USDA zone 6. 4x 2g @ $37 Berberidaceae Podophyllum pleianthum chinese may apple An outstanding addition to the shade garden. Huge leaves appear in spring, starry saucer-shaped with high, dark green gloss on stems to 3 ft tall, forming clumps to 3 ft wide. Wonderful, dangling burgundy flowers in spring are followed by yellow fruit. To 3 ft tall and as wide. Best in shade with regular summer water, as drought stress may trigger early dormancy. Winter dormant and frost hardy in USDA zone 6. 3x 2g @ $37 Ratibida columnifera - red form Berberidaceae mexican hat Asteraceae Restio similis One of the smaller restio species, this native of South Africa's Cape Region grows to 18-24" tall in grass-like clumps that move easily in the breeze. This species prefers dry land so good drainage is a must with little summer water once established. Sun to part shade. Frost hardy to the upper teens F, upper USDA zone 8. Otherwise, good in containers for winter protection. 5x 1g @ $15 Restionaceae Restio similis One of the smaller restio species, this native of South Africa's Cape Region grows to 18-24" tall in grass-like clumps that move easily in the breeze. This species prefers dry land so good drainage is a must with little summer water once established. Sun to part shade. Frost hardy to the upper teens F, upper USDA zone 8. Otherwise, good in containers for winter protection. 6x 5g @ $37 Restionaceae Ribes sanguineum 'Sean's Best White' white flowering currant A chance seedling between 3 white flowered parents - ok, maybe not so much of a chance -- occuring in our garden with generous panicles of, yes, white flowers from early winter through early spring in profuse numbers. To 6-8 ft, can be pruned for small stature. The bluish black berries also a great feature mid to late summer. For shade to sun; prefers little summer water, but does like well-drained soil. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6. 2x 2g @ $24 Grossulariaceae
21 Ribes x gordonianum currant This astounding hybrid between R. sanguineum and R. odoratum came to us from Hillier s Arboretum. Deciduous shrub to 6 ft with late winter and spring flowers emerging red and opening to reveal yellow on the inside -- a wonderful color contrast appearing orange from a distance. Sun to part shade and occasional summer water. Frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5, or less. 5x 2g @ $24 Grossulariaceae Romneya coulteri matilija poppy Also known as fried egg plant for its huge white flowers in late summer that look just like that. This is a big plant, fast-growing to 5 ft tall and forming large clumps of stalks with blue-green foliage and those fabulous flowers. HOT, DRY, DROUGHTY neglect is what it wants and lots of space. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. 7x 1g @ $18 Papaveraceae Salvia argentea Like rich silky grey cloth, it is ALL about the grey leaves on this salvia. White/lavender flowers in late summer, but who the heck CARES. Full sun suits it best. Extremely frost hardy, to USDA zone 5. 16x 6in @ $11 Lamiaceae Salvia nemorosa 'Blue Hill' Multiple spires of intense, deep blue flowers over dark green foliage make this a wonderful garden accent. The summer show can be repeated in autumn if the plants are cut back to rejuvenate. To 24" tall in clumps to 18" wide. Best in full sun with little summer water once established. Attracts bees, birds and butterflies! Said to be deer resistant. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7. Sanguisorba officinalis 'Pink Tanna' Charming in the garden and edible, this mounding perennial has green, toothed, and dense foliage -- said to have a cucumber flavor in salads -- forming clumps to 18" tall and wide and, in early summer, produces spikes of fuzzy pink, brush-like, long-lasting flowers that sway above the leaves. Easy in sun with consistent summer moisture. Easily divided. Dies back in winter, returning in early spring. Frost hardy to -30F, USDA zone 4. 8x 6in @ $12
22 Saxifraga x geum 'Dentata' toothed saxifrage A "toothy" leaved selection of a cross between S. hirusta and S. umbrosa, naturally occuring in the Pyrenees mountains. An evergreen groundcover, with mat-forming rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves to 3" across and, in summer, clusters of tiny, white-spotted-red flowers on stalks standing above the plants. Part shade with summer water; accepts more light with more water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6. 18x 4in @ $5 Saxifragaceae Saxifraga x urbium 'Aureopunctata' rockfoil Easy groundcover for dappled shade to part shade, with rosettes of leathery leaves "punctuated" with yellow-gold. A small presence, to only 8-12" tall and as wide, but a splashy one, especially with pink flowers in late spring and summer. Needs consistent moisture and shouldn't dry out. Evergreen in at least USDA zone 8 and frost hardy in zone 4. Said to be deer resistant. 8x 6in @ $8 Saxifragaceae Scabiosa 'Pink Mist' dwarf pincushion flowers Ferny, gray-green foliage and lovely, frilly pink, pin-cushion flowers from early summer through frost make this a great perennial for the garden or for mass plantings. Deadheading ensures continued blooming. To 12-18" tall in clumps as wide, these are easy in sun to part shade. Tolerant of occasional dry spells, but happier with summer water. Dies back in winter, returning in spring. Easy and frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5. 8x 1g @ $12 Schizophragma hydrangeoides Moonlight climbing hydrangea For most gardeners here in Portland, it should be Street Light, but no bother -- the heart-shaped foliage still shines brightly in the late afternoon and evening. Blazing fall color. A deciduous, self-clinging vine to run up a shaded conifer or a wall -- won t disturb masonry. Starts slowly but can reach 10 x 8 ft in a few years. and is easily pruned in early spring. Established plants produce white, lacecap flowers. Best in shade - at least dappled shade in moist, acid soil. Frost hardy to USDA zone 5. 6x 6in @ $15 Hydrangeaceae Scilla scilloides chinese scilla Perennial bulb, also sold as S. chinensis and S. japonica, a dwarf squill found in rocky areas of China and Japan, unusal for flowering in autumn. The leaves are grassy and lax, to 10" long, and the fall flowers appear in pink racemes on upright stems to 6-12" tall. Self-sows to form a nice drifts in sun to part shade in well-drained soil with regular summer water. Tolerates drought but may go dormant. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4. 20x 4D @ $9 Liliaceae
23 Sedum album 'Nigra' This most useful Mediterranean native sedum, a must-have for dry gardens and green roofs, has produced yet another good form, this with small-textured leaves that form a dense mat of deep-green-tinted-burgundy-brown foliage becoming even darker in winter s cold. A very good contrast for lighter foliage and, as this is winter growing, a good weed barrier for Mediterranean annuals, such a problem on the West Coast. Sun to dappled shade; decently drained soil. A very successful container plant. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5. 18x 4in @ $7 Crassulaceae Sedum spathulifolium 'Carnea' Northwest native stonecrop with little rosettes of silvery blue, fleshy leaves with hints of red and purple and, in summer yellow flowers hovering above the mat forming ground cover. Full sun to light shade in well-drained soil with little summer water. 4" tall x 12" wide. Stems root easily, adding more plants. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5. Crassulaceae Sedum spurium 'Dragon's Blood' two-row stonecrop Succulent leaves, green with red margins, turn darker red in fall, after the late summer, red flowers have come and gone. Red is the theme here. Fast-growing groundcover for sun, good drainage and little summer water. To only 6" tall but spreading to 2 ft or so. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4. Crassulaceae Sedum spurium Tricolor Small leaved sedum with green, white, and a bit of red in summer -- becoming increasingly red as the weather cools. Forms a small patch of summer interest and winter cheer in the dry garden. Crassulaceae Sedum spurium 'Voodoo' Succulent leaves, round and dark purple-red, are toped in summer with pink flowers. Yum! Fast-growing groundcover for sun, good drainage and little summer water. To only 6" tall but spreading to 2 ft or so. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4.