December 1, 2022
Do you love the graceful texture of ornamental grasses, but have a shady site? Hakone grass or Variegated Forest Grass is a choice plant for such a site. Provided this grass receives adequate moisture and shade it is a star performer creating waterfalls of long slender blades that beautifully arch together in one direction. The variegated lime green to yellow foliage shows best color in part to full shade and will change based on the amount of sunlight it receives. Variegated Forest Grass does spread through rhizomes, but is not considered invasive so expect it to pleasantly fill the space it is planted in. It is easily managed through division as needed. Variegated Forest Grass offers a great texture contrast against Hosta and goes well planted alongside Astilbe, Coralbells, Boxwood, and Yews.
Shade gardens, along borders, in massings
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.