The Plants Around Us

[dr_bates]

(Hardy) Eucalyptus

The term hardy is, of course, relative. It can be argued that there are no truly cold hardy eucalyptus.

Whenever pushing the cold hardy endurance, there are a few things to keep in mind. Some cultivars are harder than others. Some species are born tropical and have no protective mechanism against frost. Often size plays a role with smaller (younger) plants being more susceptible. And it should be noted that there is a huge difference between a short dip in temperature to full prolonged season of cold.

Many say the best time to plant trees is in autumn. This allows the roots, which will continue to grow through the winter, get better established before trying to support foliage. This is likely a death sentence for marginally hardy species. Plants that are somewhat exotic should instead be planted in the spring. The point is to get the plant as established as possible before committing it to the harshness of winter.

Gardens can have microclimates. Areas sheltered from wind or planted near the home are likely to be a tad warmer. Those few degrees may be enough to keep the plant viable. Mulching, wrapping with burlap, and/or shielding from the wind (with fencing) are ways to better the odds.

A few years ago, I planted a eucalyptus. It was tall, sheltered, protected, and mulched. The winter was unseasonably warm and it survived with new growth forming in spring. Unfortunately Michigan is seemingly subjected to multiple winters. It is common for spring to be inundated with several rebounding jabs of winter (which always leaves screaming and kicking). The spring was too rough and it died.

That was a snow gum, Eucalyptus pauciflora, from Tasmania. (May it rest in peace.)

If plans go accordingly, I might try this again with an Omeo gum, Eucalyptus neglecta, which is, supposedly hardier. Leary of repeating mistakes, I will probably pot it, not planting it in the soil, so it can be protected in the garage. My goal is to have minimal dieback, though this species can resprout from the roots.

Foliage from young plants often differs from older plants. Young plants have round leaves, often joined to one another along the stem. As it matures, the plant produces more strap like leaves. It's highly aromatic with a smell of menthol. Even dried branches can have therapeutic effects.

My fingers are crossed!

 

[dr_bates]

Pieris

This evergreen shrub has year round interest. It's an early spring bloomer with drooping clusters of delicate (often white) flowers, resembling lily of the valley. Here they bloom before the arrival of Hummingbirds; nevertheless, you'll find bees in appreciation.

New growth is commonly a fiery red, later changing to green as it matures. The leathery oblong leaves can be variegated. Whether green or streaked, it generally looks nice throughout the winter.

Though there are multiple species, nurseries most often offer P. japonica, which originated in Japan (no surprise there). Another, much less frequently sold is P. floribunda, which is native to the Appalachian Mountains.

Care is like that for rhododendrons; however, I believe, pieris is more forgiving. They do best in part shade with morning light. The soil should be moist but well-draining. Ensure the shallow roots feel welcome by keeping the soil acidic. Enrich the area with compost and use mulch to help protect the roots from weeds. If fertilizing, using an organic fertilizer designed for rhododendrons and azaleas would be perfect, especially if applied in early spring.

new growth in summer

some varieties have red flowers

new growth on a variegated cultivar

Flower buds are formed in autumn. They dangle from the tips till spring. If weather turns unseasonably cold, it is possible buds could be damaged; however, even in my wacky cold climate, I don't recall that ever being an issue. Lack the of blooming could stem from insufficient light, soil acidity isn't right, or too much fertilizer was applied.

It's name may have derived from Pieria, where the Greek Muses lived. Perhaps early botanist found the plant amusing.

 

[dr_bates]

Tomatillo / Physalis ixocarpa / P. philadelpica

You can tell if a gardener is serious about Mexican food if tomatillos are planted, which are not a type of tomato. There are, in fact, two different species. Physalis philadelpica has the classic green fruit, while P. Ixocarpa is purple when ripe. Both are encased in a papery a husk.

These can be grown from seed, started several weeks before the last frost. They dislike the cold and will start best under a heat mat. Before moving to the garden, remember to gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions. Don't rush and plant them cool soil. Wait till the soil has sufficiently warmed.

Whether grown from seed or purchased as starter plants, dig deep, covering the stems to the first leaves. (If possible, remove those first leaves and plant it even deeper!) The buried portion of stem will create side roots, which will benefit the plant in numerous ways. As they can grow quickly, stake soon after planting, else they will sprawl wildly across the ground.

Enrich the native soil with compost, avoiding any made from black walnut leaves. Black walnut produces a chemical, juglone, which many plants, including tomatoes and tomatillos, are highly sensitive. (Sensitive meaning potentially death.)

Water regularly at the base of the plant, taking care to keep leaves dry. If using a sprinkler, water in the morning so the day's heat can quickly evaporate residual moisture on the leaves.

Mulching the plants can be a big advantage.

Though nitrogen is needed, a fertilizer too high in nitrogen will decrease fruiting. It'll be a lush green plant with few fruit. Use a fertilizer that was designed for tomatoes. If leaves develop a purplish tint, it could require more phosphorus. Yellowing leaves may indicate a magnesium deficiency.

P. ixocarpa has purple fruit that is sweeter and can be eaten raw.

P. philadelpica matures earlier and is used in making salsa.

Tamayo is an uncommon hybrid with much larger (generally green) fruit, often twice as big.

How serious do you take your Mexican food?

 

[dr_bates]

Peruvian Ground Cherry / Physalis peruviana

Before venturing from the tomatillos, let's add a little complexity to this genus, Physalis.

Despite appearances, this is not a tomatillo, nor is it a tomato.

First cultivated by Incas, this plant is treasured for its sweet fruit, which has a sweet, tart, tropical flavor, which is like a strawberry and a pineapple, perhaps with a hint of citrus.

Though not a gooseberry, sometimes it's labeled as cape gooseberries. Goldenberry and pichuberry are even more names.

It can be used to make salsa, baked in desserts, used as topping for ice cream, put into smoothies, added to salads, made in preserves, dried, or, as is often the case, popped right in the mouth.

Care is the same as that for tomatillos.

As is commonly stated, variety is the spice of life. Unfortunately, these are seldom in produce stores (at least not here). It's a shame, because the taste is superior to most tomatoes. Scarcity adds credence to gardening.

 

[dr_bates]

Chinese Lantern Plant / Physalis alkekengi

The genus Physalis actually has many species, widely distributed through the world. Though most are tropical, the Chinese Lantern is a perennial, except in areas with severe winters.

(It has the potential of being invasive.)

The fruit is bitter but technically edible when fully ripe. The plant is more commonly grown for the papery lanterns, which are dried and fashioned into floral displays.

Give them full sun, unless the climate has scorching hot summers. In that case, partial shade during the hottest part of day is beneficial.

The plant has rhizomes and can spread quickly underground. Care should be taken to help prevent them from spreading throughout the flower garden. Planting in pots will restrict growth. Forgoing fertilizer will help slow rampant growth.

The plant has its fans; however, I discontinued growing it. Being outside of the hardiness zone, it became yet another struggle to restart each spring.

 

[dr_bates]

Japanese Umbrella Pine / "Koyamaki"
Sciadopitys verticillata

This prized ornamental has distinct features that add a unique texture to the landscape. The needles are glossy green, looking rather artificial. But they are indeed real and arranged symmetrically around the branch, radiating out like an inverted umbrella. Overall, the foliage is dense and lush.

Technically, those aren't needles. What appears to be needles on this species are actually modified extensions of the stem called cladodes. The actual needles are highly reduced bumps on the stem.

The Japanese Umbrella is one of five sacred trees species in Japan, where it is called koyamaki. The other four sacred trees include Hinoki cypress, Hiba arborvitae, Sawara cypress, and Japanese arborvitae.

Technically, this isn't a pine with the species predating the evolution of true pines. The species is indeed ancient. It's considered a "living fossil" with remains found that are over 230 million years old. It no longer has any close relatives.

When young specimens grow quite slowly, which contributes to sizeable prices at nurseries. In an effort to be frugal, I purchased two as tiny seedlings. The first few years they were miniscule but I held hope for their future. Now they're taller than me with growth progressing faster.

They prefer full sun, except in climates with hot summer. In that case, some partial shade during midday can help. The soil needs to be well-draining. Avoid clay based soil. Though moist soil is preferential, they can be rather drought tolerant (once established). Mulch can help keep the soil moist. Supplements may need to added to keep the soil fairly acidic.

With patience it can get quite majestic, even without dinosaurs.

 

[seventiesdemon]

 

[seventiesdemon]

One of my favourites here is the Jacaranda when it's in bloom. It's not a native...but when the flowers fall like snow it's peaceful to watch them do so silently....

 

[dr_bates]

Blue Star / Amsonia sp.

Willowleaf Blue Star, Amsonia tabernaemontana

This genus of largely native perennials is seldom utilized enough. Here, I seldom see it available at nursery centers. That is unfortunate, as they are charming, reliable plants.

Arkansa Blue Star, Amsonia hubrichtii

Clusters of blue flowers are produced in late spring, making it a great choice for the flower bed or butterfly garden. (It may rebloom if spent flowers are removed.) Even when not in bloom, the soft foliage looks attractive. When autumn arrives the foliage turns bright yellow before dormancy starts.

Creeping Blue Star, Amsonia repens

Though not a picky diva about soil type, for best results a rich, well-draining media should be offered. They require no special fertilizer but adding compost is beneficial. Once established plants are drought tolerant but would prefer regular watering. They need full sun or partial shade. All in all, it's an easy plant to grow.

Blue Ice (hybrid)

"Blue is the closest color to truth."
-- Steven Tyler

 

[seventiesdemon]

Blue Star / Amsonia sp.

View attachment 151707731
Willowleaf Blue Star, Amsonia tabernaemontana

This genus of largely native perennials is seldom utilized enough. Here, I seldom see it available at nursery centers. That is unfortunate, as they are charming, reliable plants.

View attachment 151708291
Arkansa Blue Star, Amsonia hubrichtii

Clusters of blue flowers are produced in late spring, making it a great choice for the flower bed or butterfly garden. (It may rebloom if spent flowers are removed.) Even when not in bloom, the soft foliage looks attractive. When autumn arrives the foliage turns bright yellow before dormancy starts.

View attachment 151709491
Creeping Blue Star, Amsonia repens

Though not a picky diva about soil type, for best results a rich, well-draining media should be offered. They require no special fertilizer but adding compost is beneficial. Once established plants are drought tolerant but would prefer regular watering. They need full sun or partial shade. All in all, it's an easy plant to grow.

View attachment 151710811
Blue Ice (hybrid)

"Blue is the closest color to truth."
-- Steven Tyler

Lovely plants, we have a similar flowered plant here Jasmine, star shaped flower...I'll take a photo tomorrow, the plant is named after the scent they have. What scent do these have?

 

[seventiesdemon]

Be great if we had Scentanet ..Okay, to close to Sentinent, we don't want that quite yet...how about Scentaweb

 

[seventiesdemon]

Web stock photo, Aussie native. Don't have a lot of time to edit now.
.

 

[dr_bates]

Lovely plants, we have a similar flowered plant here Jasmine, star shaped flower...I'll take a photo tomorrow, the plant is named after the scent they have. What scent do these have?

You'd be hard-pressed to smell anything.
To my knowledge it has no fragrance (at least to humans).

 

[seventiesdemon]

You'd be hard-pressed to smell anything.
To my knowledge it has no fragrance (at least to humans).

It's like cut flowers these days....the first thing us humans do when presented with a bunch of blooms is smell them. Much of the time we are disappointed because they are grown in conditions commercially, they have none, or very little. Grown in greenhouses pumped up to between 1000 and 1800 ppm of CO2 for quick growth.

Half the joy of growing flowers in their environment is their perfume, the other half their appearance.

 

[dr_bates]

Chinese Ground Orchid / Bletilla striata

Orchids have symbolized love and beauty, while also embodying prosperity, nobility, and success. It seems to have style that imbues a posh air of superiority.

Generally orchids remind people of tropics. There certainly are a lot of species native to rain forests; however, temperate species, like the Chinese ground orchid, are actually rather numerous. There are, after all, a lot of orchid species. Only one plant family (the daisies) has more.

Orchids are planted for their beauty as their benefit to the garden is miniscule. But surely, your probably thinking, they are good for pollinators, right!?

Orchids have become masters at fooling pollinators, whether it involves traps, lures, or deception. Sometimes this trickery involves mimicking female insects to fool love sick males intent on mating to transport the pollen. Bletilla has rewardless flowers. Bees may assume there will be nectar but they'll find none. So no, it is certainly not a top pollinator pick.

Protect them from the hot midday heat. They can otherwise tolerate full sun.

The soil needs to be rich in humus and well-draining. Don't let it get totally dry. Keeping them evenly moist is important; however, more isn't better. If in doubt, don't water. (When dormant through the winter, try to keep them dry.)

Don't fertilize till a year after planting. Orchid roots tend to be sensitive. Let them get established before adding fertilizer. When feeding, use a balanced fertilizer.

In time the plants will grow to form clumps, blooming in early summer. Several varieties exist, which mainly differ with flower color. The most common color being a pinkish purple. Some varieties are also less winter hardy.

As far as orchids go, bletilla is easy, just not for the bees.

 

[dr_bates]

Lilac / Syringa

"Yankee Doodle" Common Lilac, Syringa vulgaris "Yankee Doodle"

Lilacs are a common sight in my region. They're so frequently planted that you might get the impression this is their native habitat. It's not; however, everything is native to somewhere.

Sensation Common Lilac, Syringa vulgaris "Sensation"

Being low maintenance and easy to grow certainly have helped make them popular; however, lilacs are loved for their fragrant spring flowers. These blooms are, of course, cherished by bees and butterflies. I can't confirm whether hummingbirds do too. Literature is sketchy and downright conflicting. Even if not their top pick, having numerous blooms may help them feel secure. Plants with doubled petals, though beautiful, are not desirous to any of the pollinators.

President Common Lilac, Syringa vulgaris "President"

Of the three primary species, Syringa vulgaris is one the most commonly planted. It's a tall shrub with the widest color range of the lilacs. Besides the purest white and the deepest shades of purple, it can be nearly blue or red. The variety "Primrose" is listed as yellow; however, I have only seen it as cream (or white). Though commonly referred to as French, it's native to the eastern Europe.

Japanese Lilac Tree, Syringa reticulata

Syringa reticulata is native to east Asia. Here they are commonly used as street trees. Unlike common lilacs, blooms are only white and bloom later in early summer.

Palibin Korean Lilac, Syringa meyeri "Palibin"

Syringa meyeri is a small shrub, seldom over five feet, that is native to northern China. Flowers can be white, pink, or purple. After the spring flush of flowers, some varieties can lightly bloom through the summer. Such rebloomers are often called boomerangs.

Primrose Common Lilac, Syringa vulgaris "Primrose"

For best flowering, they need full sun. In shade, plants are unlikely to bloom. The soil needs to be well-draining. Though they are drought tolerant (when established), they perform best with regular watering. They dislike acidic soil, so don't plant them near rhododendrons (or acidic loving plants). Unless soil is depleted, fertilizer is probably not necessary.

Monge Common Lilac, Syringa vulgaris "Monge"

Though not super common, lilacs can suffer from blight. Leaves are curled, deformed, and browned (with many falling or dead). This is most frequent on over fertilized plants during a cool summer. Prune out infected areas. Don't get the leaves wet when watering. Avoid over fertilizing by using compost or other organic fertilizer.

If the plant fails to bloom, it is likely from pruning. If pruned too late in the summer, the following summer's flower buds are removed. It may also be from insufficient light. Though tolerant of cold winters, a hard late frost can freeze growing flowering buds.

If leaves start looking rather purplish (or red), it indicates more phosphorus is needed.

If leaves develop a haze of white, it probably has powdery mildew.

Perhaps the reason they are so common is that it is hard to select just one color.

 

[dr_bates]

American Hazelnut (Filbert)
Corylus americana

This large shrub (or small tree) offers a lot of interest from flowers, food, and autumn color; however, it's rarely planted. It's scarcity is a shame. Homeowners commonly select planting choices while browsing their local nursery. Since natives are infrequently offered, they generally leave with a non-native species (that is potentially invasive). While the non-native probably offers interest, it won't be positively impactful to the ecology of the world.

Research has shown that landscapes harboring more than 30% non-native species is detrimental to wildlife, as insectivorous songbird mortality rate exceeds fecundity. The net loss is a population reduction. Another words, it's good to have native species.

Not only will the nuts be a source of food, the American hazelnut is host to over a hundred moth species, including the regal Io moth.

Io Moth, Automeris io

Once established, this is quite undemanding. It can grow nearly anywhere that isn't densely shaded or consistently wet. It will only reach 10-16 feet, which is tiny for a tree with nuts.

Hazelnuts are indeed nuts. Like its European counterpart, Corylus avellana, it is edible, whether eaten raw or roasted. It's great for adding to dishes, especially desserts, and recently hazelnut nut spreads have become popular. Of course, wildlife (including squirrels, turkeys, woodpeckers, jays, and deer) will want their share.

Though trees have both male and female parts, they are held separately on the tree, which makes self-pollination tricky. Female flowers are small and red, while the drooping male catkins are yellow. If you want nuts, consider planting two (or more!) or give one to your neighbor.

Autumn color varies from orange to red with a shade of rust being common.

Sometimes landscaping turns into scavenger hunt; however, I think the benefits outweigh the searching effort. Don't feel limited to what local stores are selling. If you wanted a Whopper, don't settle for a Big Mac!

 

[dr_bates]

Bigleaf Hydrangea / Hydrangea macrophylla

"Glory Blue" - color depends on soil pH

When walking through nurseries or driving through neighborhoods, you're sure to notice these hydrangeas. It's popular and favored by many homeowners.

Many qualities promote the vogue status. It's stylish. It stays small and compact. Best of all, it has a long bloom period.

"Blue Ball"

Despite (or because of) their popularity, questions about hydrangea care is almost exclusively concerning this species. More specifically, it's almost always the same question: why isn't my hydrangea blooming?

They are reportedly capable of blooming on new and old wood. While true, it's often more complicated. Most often, despite able to bloom on new wood, plants generally want to bloom on old wood first. While some cultivars respond better than others, pruning can severely delay flowering. It should also be noted that flower clusters on new wood are much smaller.

If winters are harsh with repeated freezing and thawing, stems may dieback. This inherently acts like a pruning, delaying flowering. If troubled by winter weather, wrap plants after a hard frost with burlap.

"LA Dreamin"

What we see as large clusters (the mop head) of flowers aren't flowers.... well, not exactly. What we see are modified sterile calyxes. The true flowers are tiny and hidden underneath.

The flower color of many cultivars can change depending on soil acidity. In acidic soil, the flowers turn blue. As the pH rises, it slowly changes to pink with purple occurring in-between.

This is function of the anthocyanin pigment and specific ions in the soil. In acidic soil, these ions are more available. When the pigment is charged with the ions, it's blue. As the soil gets alkaline this interaction happens less frequently, resulting in pink.

"Love"

Plants have pores, called stoma, on their leaves, particularly on the underside. Besides helping convey oxygen and carbon dioxide, these pores help the plant from overheating. Bigleaf hydrangeas have bigger pores, which can cause leaves to lose moisture too rapidly if planted in full sun. Morning sun is the best.

"Let's Dance"

Besides having large clusters, many cultivars have a lacy cap. These have a closer resemblance to those seen in wild habitats. To see that, however, you'd need to be hiking through east Asia.

 

[dr_bates]

Mountain Hydrangea / Hydrangea serrata

"Blueburd" / color varies with soil pH

While on that trek through the east Asian countryside, one might mistake bigleaf with mountain hydrangeas. Even nursery centers often lump them together. Since the care and appearance is similar, it makes sense.

"Tuff Stuff" / color varies with soil pH

Let's go ahead and state the obvious: bigleaf hydrangeas have larger leaves. With their smaller leaves, mountain hydrangeas handle heat and sun better. Very few mountain hydrangeas have a mophead; most are lacy. They bloom later and stay dormant longer in spring. Longer dormancy helps protect from late spring frosts. Even without this factor, they tend to withstand colder, harsher winters better.

While today hydrangeas symbolize grace, beauty, and gratitude, in Victorian times it held a negative connotation of arrogant boastfulness. Will our view change back as the necessity for planting natives grows? Only time will tell.

 

[dr_bates]

Goldenrod / Solidago

Weeds are defined as being undesirable and unwanted. For years, goldenrod was commonly regarded as a weed. Perhaps it's time to rethink our opinion of these plants.

Legend has it that at the end of a rainbow is a pot of gold. At the end of our colorful summer, healthy meadows are laden in gold, goldenrod that is. This isn't just a metaphor. There is true value in goldenrod.

Many native insects, including specific pollinators, depend upon it. The flowers, extending until late in fall, offer valuable nectar when few other plants are flowering. Many species rely on this late food source to provide sufficient energy to sustain them through the long winter.

Beyond the ecological importance, its low maintenance and dazzling bright gold blooms should earn it a rightful position in the flower garden.

It's tough. It's not picky about soil type and is drought tolerant. Also, it resists both deer and rabbits.

Showy Goldenrod

Erroneously, many have considered goldenrod is the cause of hay fever symptoms. Won't happen. Its pollen is too large and sticky.

Though at first glance it may not look like a daisy, goldenrod is a member of this huge family of flowers.

There are over a hundred species of goldenrod. Surely, we can find room for at least one. Fortunately, nursery centers are beginning to offer it, so we can all enrich our autumn with gold.