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By May 15, Our perennial yard will be filled with over 300 varieties of perennials, ornamental grasses, ferns, ground covers and hardy vines. Weekly deliveries from several suppliers allow us to offer an extensive selection of both common and unusual varieties while keeping our stock fresh! Remember, not all plants come out of dormancy at the same time, so a particular perennial may not be ready at the time of your visit. Ask us to put your name in our ‘little black book’ and we’ll call you as soon as the product becomes available! Even if we don't carry a certain item, we can try and bring it in for you. It never hurts to ask.
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2010 Perennial Plant of the YearBaptisia australis is native to the Eastern United States and an excellent low maintenance, shrub-like plant once established. The plant grows 36 to 48 inches tall and wide. Its common name, blue false indigo, refers to its use as a dye by early Americans. Baptisias thrive in full sun, but will also tolerate partial shade. Plants may be small and sparse when first planted, but quickly become established reaching full maturity in as little as three years. A permanent place in the garden should be chosen so the tap root will not be disturbed. In Spring, violet-blue flowers stand out above bluish-green foliage. After 3 to 4 weeks, the flowers give way to dark seed pods that gently rattle in the wind when dry. The pods may be used as an accent in floral arrangements. Baptisia australis is perfect for cottage and native plant gardens. It is best as a specimen or planted in small groups. Baptisia can be used with bulbs and other spring flowering perennials to make interesting combinations. Various Heuchera selections can create a skirt with leaf colors either echoing or contrasting the flower color. The purple blue range of Amsonia selections also make nice neighbors. Baptisia is a true American beauty that attracts a number of butterfly species to the garden. There are no serious insect or disease problems. Taller plants may need support, particularly when grown in partial shade. A desirable attribute of blue false indigo is that it is seldom damaged by deer browsing. Baptisia australis contains several alkaloids that give the plants a bitter taste, thus making them unpalatable to deer and other critters. Baptisia australis is seed propagated. Like many other legumes, it has a hard seed coat. Seeds must be scarified when germination occurs in an artificial setting. Seedlings may be transplanted when small; however, dividing large clumps is not advisable due to the tap root structure of this perennial. Perennial Plant Association: www.perennialplant.org |
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If you don’t have space to grow out, Grow UP! Our winter hardy vine selection includes flowering and non-flowering varieties as well as varieties for sun or shade. Vines can be used for privacy, hiding ugly structures, as ground cover or fruit production, while adding a unique vertical element to your landscaping. Vines are especially useful in small yards or tight spaces. Imagine a clematis or honeysuckle trailing over an obelisk— it can become the focal point of your garden! We’ll be happy to help you choose the perfect vine for your yard! |
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Baptisia australis |
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...93 Years and still growing strong! |