March 1, 2023
Lenten roses, also known as hellebore hybrids, offer color and beauty to an early spring landscape. A semievergreen perennial, the Lenten rose has a dark green glossy foliage which is divided into segments—usually between seven and nine—forming an umbrella shape. The large bell-shaped hybrids emerge between April and June and bloom nicely alongside spring daffodils and tulips.
Hellebore hybrids come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, green, pink, and dark red. They are native to Europe and Asia and grow among woodland and forest edges. They thrive in rich, humus soil, but will also grow in rocky soil. Although they can withstand some drought once they’ve matured, they do not like excessive moisture, so proper drainage is important. Low-maintenance plants, Lenten roses make ideal specimens or may be used as ground cover. Deer and rabbits avoid them.
We have had hydrangea fever for some time now! What is not to love about these vigorous growing, heavy blooming garden plants?
Chicagoland green boxwood was introduced in 1994. Chicagoland grows as a hardy, dense growing hybrid of boxwood. A broadleaf evergreen with foliage typical of most deciduous plants, boxwood retains its leaves year-round, which are dark green, small and curved.
A female cultivar of the red maple, the October glory maple is a medium sized deciduous tree with glossy green leaves containing three main triangular lobes.
September charm anemone is a delightfully late-blooming perennial that complements a perennial border.