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Category Archives: Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
PERENNIAL: Polygonatum biflorum (Smooth Solomon’s Seal)
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
This native understory plant of moist woods is noted for its graceful arching stems, its dainty bell-like flowers, and the conspicuous veins of its leaves. Its name may come either from the scars on the leaf stalk that are said to resemble the ancient Hebrew seal of King Solomon or from its wound sealing properties. Continue reading
GROUND COVER: Iris cristata (Dwarf Crested Iris)
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Indigenous mostly to southern Virginia, this diminutive iris is also native to Fairfax and Prince William counties as well as seven counties in Pennsylvania and Maryland and in the District of Columbia. Its colorful blooms and easy culture make it a valuable addition to a woodland garden. Spring flowers in various shades of purple form a lovely carpet. Continue reading
GROUND COVER: Packera aurea (Golden Ragwort)
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Earlier classified as Senecio aureus, this native wildflower grows in moist
fields and woods throughout much of the eastern half of North America
and as far west as Texas. Golden flowers bloom for about three weeks and
after they have faded, shiny basal foliage serves as a pretty ground cover. Continue reading
SHRUB: Fothergilla gardenii (Dwarf Fothergilla)
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Native to southeastern coastal areas, Dwarf Fothergilla shines three seasons of the year. Spring brings sweetly-scented, white bottlebrush flowers that welcome pollinators. Its summer dress is a pretty green. Fall leaf color is spectacular, turning exquisite shades of yellow, orange or red that brighten up the woodland garden. Continue reading
FERN: Osmunda claytoniana (Interrupted Fern)
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
This native, more common to western and northern portions of the Mid-Atlantic Region, grows in moist woods, slopes and swamp edges. The term “interrupted” in its common name refers to the distinctive gap left in the middle of the fern blade when fertile leaflets wither and fall off mid-summer. Continue reading
TREE: Amelanchier arborea (Downy Serviceberry)
Tried and True Native Plant Selections for the Mid-Atlantic
Common in woodlands throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region, this native provides seasonal interest from early spring blossoms through vivid fall color. Edible fruit is ready for picking early summer, but there will be fierce competition with the 58 wildlife and 35 bird species that use this tree.
Continue reading
