Common name:Silver Maple, Soft or White Maple
Botanical name:Acer saccharinum
This fast-growing, equally spreading tree can reach heights of 40-100'. Leaves of 3"-6" in width are five-lobed, with a light green top color and silvery color beneath. The fall color is a mixture of scarlet, orange and yellow. With an aggressive root system, this tree can be hard on sidewalks and sewers. It is, however, one of the best trees for poor soils where few other trees will grow.
Common name:Orchid or Purple Rockrose
Botanical name:Cistus X purpureus
Orchid rockrose is an evergreen shrub growing to 4' tall and wide, often shorter in stressful situations. The rosy-crimson flowers to 3" wide exhibit a dark purple blotch at the base of each petal, and bloom early to mid-summer. The flowers also feature a contrasting yellow cluster of stamens in the center. It does well in salt spray and cool winds. It is relatively long-lived, tolerant of heat and aridity as well as accepting many soil conditions. -Native Sons Nursery
Common name:Common Lilac
Botanical name:Syringa vulgaris
Forms of the common Lilac grow to a height of 15' and are equally wide, but can be kept smaller with careful shaping. The dark green leaves are roundish, oval and pointed that grow to 5" long. In the spring, clusters of fragrant lilac flowers are borne. The plant requires full sun for proper growth.
Common name:Blue Spire Russian Sage
Botanical name:Perovskia 'Blue Spire'
This popular plant will grow to 2-3' and has fragrant, grayish leaves accented by lavender/blue flowers that bloom from March through Summer. Cut back through dormancy in winter.
Photographer: GardenSoft
Incorporate compost 6" into your soil to retain water, reduce compaction, feed earthworms, and provide valuable nutrients to your plants.
Develop healthy soil for plants that are vigorous and naturally pest-resistant.