PERENNIAL FOCUS

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Vines

Vines help us take more advantage of vertical space, especially where space is limited. Like many other parts of the plant palette, their aspect during the seasons often changes, thus adding even more interest.

Small Trees

Like vines, many trees change leaf color or have flowers and fruit that add to their seasonal interest. I’m particularly fond of Acer palmatum ‘Viridis’. The flowers and samaras are not particularly noticeable but the foliage color changes are. Each year, I eagerly await fall’s temperature drop that sparks the fireworks show of Acer palmatum ‘Viridis’.

Perennials

All too often, a new gardener will focus on the color and form of perennial flowers, forgetting that most perennials are in bloom for a relatively short period of time. While those two elements are important, just as important is what the perennial looks like when it is not in bloom. What do the deadheads look like? Do they supply food for pollinators or birds or butterflies? Eryngium is an underused genus, especially useful in xeric gardens. It has interesting foliage, unusual spiky blooms, and pincushion deadheads that last throughout the winter.

MICHAEL J. DONNELLAN M3 Wealth Management