Saturday, March 8, 2014
Take a Vacation to Your Backyard with a Fire Pit More
With the economy in shambles and money being tight for most American families, taking vacations arent an easy an option these days as they once were. More and more homeowners are using their leftover income to renovate their homes and outdoor living spaces to spend more time amongst family and friends entertaining, versus spending money on an extravagant trip. Welcome to the new vacation destination: your backyard!
What better way to relax than in the comfort of your home where you walk out your back door and feel like you are in paradise? Well, that is a current trend and one way people are incorporating the feel of nature is by installing a custom fire pit in their outdoor living spaces.
Having a central gathering space for entertaining including comfortable seating in the round, an outdoor kitchen area, a bar and creative lighting can really make your backyard feel like an outdoor get-a-way.
Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are a natural gathering spot for seating in the round, eating and conversation. Nothing brings people together quite like gathering around the fire as if you were out in the woods camping and roasting marshmallows and making smores. Having a nice fire pit with enough room to kick your feet up or place your meal down begs for people to gather around and share stories.
Having a proper grill in place as well as a food prep area is also a key ingredient (no pun intended) to any outdoor entertainment space. Just as people tend to gather in the kitchen during dinner parties, an outdoor kitchen area serves the same purpose. Plenty of room to prepare and serve food is essential and having a bar set up for beer, cocktails and mixers keeps the party where it should be, in your ENTERTAINMENT space. Oh, p.s., this will keep guests from tracking in dirt inside other than bathroom breaks. I suppose you could install a port-a-potty, but...well....yeah, lets go ahead and pass on that one.
Finally, creative lighting can be inexpensive but add a dramatic effect to setting the mood during the evening hours. Use tiki torches to bring a feel of the islands to your landscaping by highlighting prominent vegetation, trees and shrubs. Floor lamps can achieve a nice accent to other flora and fauna. By adding lighting to your outdoor entertainment space, you create depth in your backyard. Without lighting, it can feel as though one is staring out into an abyss and well, might scare the kids too. Lighting can show off your entire landscape design even when the sun doesnt shine.
These three key elements; seating around a fire pit in the round, an outdoor kitchen area and creative lighting accents can really transform your backyard into a vacation get-a-way. For all of your backyard renovation needs, feel free to contact us at any time and well be happy to help you with your custom fire pit and landscape design ideas.
Read More..
What better way to relax than in the comfort of your home where you walk out your back door and feel like you are in paradise? Well, that is a current trend and one way people are incorporating the feel of nature is by installing a custom fire pit in their outdoor living spaces.
Having a central gathering space for entertaining including comfortable seating in the round, an outdoor kitchen area, a bar and creative lighting can really make your backyard feel like an outdoor get-a-way.
Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces are a natural gathering spot for seating in the round, eating and conversation. Nothing brings people together quite like gathering around the fire as if you were out in the woods camping and roasting marshmallows and making smores. Having a nice fire pit with enough room to kick your feet up or place your meal down begs for people to gather around and share stories.
Having a proper grill in place as well as a food prep area is also a key ingredient (no pun intended) to any outdoor entertainment space. Just as people tend to gather in the kitchen during dinner parties, an outdoor kitchen area serves the same purpose. Plenty of room to prepare and serve food is essential and having a bar set up for beer, cocktails and mixers keeps the party where it should be, in your ENTERTAINMENT space. Oh, p.s., this will keep guests from tracking in dirt inside other than bathroom breaks. I suppose you could install a port-a-potty, but...well....yeah, lets go ahead and pass on that one.
Finally, creative lighting can be inexpensive but add a dramatic effect to setting the mood during the evening hours. Use tiki torches to bring a feel of the islands to your landscaping by highlighting prominent vegetation, trees and shrubs. Floor lamps can achieve a nice accent to other flora and fauna. By adding lighting to your outdoor entertainment space, you create depth in your backyard. Without lighting, it can feel as though one is staring out into an abyss and well, might scare the kids too. Lighting can show off your entire landscape design even when the sun doesnt shine.
These three key elements; seating around a fire pit in the round, an outdoor kitchen area and creative lighting accents can really transform your backyard into a vacation get-a-way. For all of your backyard renovation needs, feel free to contact us at any time and well be happy to help you with your custom fire pit and landscape design ideas.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Ardisia
A genus of 250 plants native to moist forest understories in Asia as well as the tropics of the Americas. The foliage is usually crowded towards the ends of the branchlets as in Rhododendrons and Skimmias and the berries are typically very attractive.
Most prefer partial to full shade, high humidity and protection from excessive wind. They prefer moist, light, humus-rich, well drained soil. Ardisias are rarely bothered by pests and diseases but most are NOT drought tolerant so that irrigation may be required during drought and mulch is recommended as well. May be prone to scale and mites in some regions. Generally pruning is not needed but old plants can be renovated by cutting back almost to the base in early spring.
They can be propagated from both semi-ripe cuttings taken during summer as well as seed sown in spring which may take awhile to germinate.
Ardisia crenata ( Coral Ardisia )
A popular garden shrub that is native to Asia from the eastern Himalayas to China and southern Japan. It originates from a single, upright woody stem and has short side branches that tier from it. The Coral Ardisia can reach a maximum size of 10 x 8 feet after many years however is usually less than half that.
It may have invasive potential in Florida.
The leathery, elliptic leaves, up to 8.5 x 2 inches, are very glossy deep green.
Small white starry flowers are borne in terminal clusters in late spring and summer.
They are followed in autumn by small but profuse, very showy, glossy, scarlet berries that ripen in early autumm and persist well into winter ( sometimes even late winter ). There is also a form with white berries.
Hardy zones 7 to 11 ( 6 on protected sites ). It is not salt tolerant.
Variegata
new foliage with narrow red margins that turn to white.
Ardisia crispa
Native to much of the same range as Ardisia crenata but also the mountains of southeast Asia. It grows a little larger reaching a maximum size of 10 feet with foliage up to 12 x 2 inches and flower panicles to 4 inches in length.
Hardy zones 7 to 11
Ardisia escallonioides ( Marlberry )
A small, fast growing, bushy, evergreen tree to 15 feet or more that is native to south Florida, Mexico, Guatemala and the northern Caribbean. The largest on record is 25 x 10 feet with a trunk diameter of 6 inches.
The elliptic foliage is deep green, to 7 x 2 inches and often has rounded tips.
The small, starry, creamy white flowers are borne on upright sprays to 5 inches in length in summer and fall.
They are followed by small, glossy black berries.
It is very tolerant of soil PH, salt as well as moderate drought tolerant. It is not typically bothered by insect pests. Thrives in sun or shade from zones 9 to 12
Ardisia humilis
A tree, reaching a maximum height of 35 feet, that is native to India.
The leaves are up to 8 inches in length.
Hardy zones 10 to 11
Ardisia japonica
An attractive, evergreen groundcover native to China and Japan. It reaches a maximum height of 20 inches ( average is around 8 to 10 inches ) and spreads from rhizomes below the soil. Rapid growing but never invasive it may reach up to 10 feet or more across after decades if left on its own.
The sharply serrated, oval leaves are up to 5 x 2 ( rarely over 4 ) inches but usually less. The foliage is glossy deep green.
Small white to light pink flowers appear in summer beneath the foliage.
The flowers are followed by 0.25 inch fruits that are pink to red in color.
The fruits persist well into winter.
Hardy zones 7 to 10 as an evergreen, but can also be grown in zone 5 and 6 as a perennial groundcover on a sheltered site. Reported to have escaped into the wild in parts of northern Florida, especially in its preferred woodland conditions.
* photo taken on May 8 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
Chirimen
An extra hardy form, hardy north to zone 6. It even thrives in southern Michigan on protected sites though not evergreen there. It forms a beautiful groundcover, up to 8 inches x 4 feet. The leathery foliage is deep green.
The white flowers are followed by scarlet-red berries, up to 0.25 inches across.
* photo taken on June 1 2013 in Clarksville, MD
* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
Matsu Shima
Pink stems and also with variegated leaves.
Nishiki
variegation on margins of foliage is translucent pink in spring turning cream in summer.
* photo taken on May 8 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on October 17 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
Read More..
Most prefer partial to full shade, high humidity and protection from excessive wind. They prefer moist, light, humus-rich, well drained soil. Ardisias are rarely bothered by pests and diseases but most are NOT drought tolerant so that irrigation may be required during drought and mulch is recommended as well. May be prone to scale and mites in some regions. Generally pruning is not needed but old plants can be renovated by cutting back almost to the base in early spring.
They can be propagated from both semi-ripe cuttings taken during summer as well as seed sown in spring which may take awhile to germinate.
Ardisia crenata ( Coral Ardisia )
A popular garden shrub that is native to Asia from the eastern Himalayas to China and southern Japan. It originates from a single, upright woody stem and has short side branches that tier from it. The Coral Ardisia can reach a maximum size of 10 x 8 feet after many years however is usually less than half that.
It may have invasive potential in Florida.
The leathery, elliptic leaves, up to 8.5 x 2 inches, are very glossy deep green.
Small white starry flowers are borne in terminal clusters in late spring and summer.
They are followed in autumn by small but profuse, very showy, glossy, scarlet berries that ripen in early autumm and persist well into winter ( sometimes even late winter ). There is also a form with white berries.
Hardy zones 7 to 11 ( 6 on protected sites ). It is not salt tolerant.
Variegata
new foliage with narrow red margins that turn to white.
Ardisia crispa
Native to much of the same range as Ardisia crenata but also the mountains of southeast Asia. It grows a little larger reaching a maximum size of 10 feet with foliage up to 12 x 2 inches and flower panicles to 4 inches in length.
Hardy zones 7 to 11
Ardisia escallonioides ( Marlberry )
A small, fast growing, bushy, evergreen tree to 15 feet or more that is native to south Florida, Mexico, Guatemala and the northern Caribbean. The largest on record is 25 x 10 feet with a trunk diameter of 6 inches.
The elliptic foliage is deep green, to 7 x 2 inches and often has rounded tips.
The small, starry, creamy white flowers are borne on upright sprays to 5 inches in length in summer and fall.
They are followed by small, glossy black berries.
It is very tolerant of soil PH, salt as well as moderate drought tolerant. It is not typically bothered by insect pests. Thrives in sun or shade from zones 9 to 12
Ardisia humilis
A tree, reaching a maximum height of 35 feet, that is native to India.
The leaves are up to 8 inches in length.
Hardy zones 10 to 11
Ardisia japonica
An attractive, evergreen groundcover native to China and Japan. It reaches a maximum height of 20 inches ( average is around 8 to 10 inches ) and spreads from rhizomes below the soil. Rapid growing but never invasive it may reach up to 10 feet or more across after decades if left on its own.
The sharply serrated, oval leaves are up to 5 x 2 ( rarely over 4 ) inches but usually less. The foliage is glossy deep green.
Small white to light pink flowers appear in summer beneath the foliage.
The flowers are followed by 0.25 inch fruits that are pink to red in color.
The fruits persist well into winter.
Hardy zones 7 to 10 as an evergreen, but can also be grown in zone 5 and 6 as a perennial groundcover on a sheltered site. Reported to have escaped into the wild in parts of northern Florida, especially in its preferred woodland conditions.
* photo taken on May 8 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
Chirimen
An extra hardy form, hardy north to zone 6. It even thrives in southern Michigan on protected sites though not evergreen there. It forms a beautiful groundcover, up to 8 inches x 4 feet. The leathery foliage is deep green.
The white flowers are followed by scarlet-red berries, up to 0.25 inches across.
* photo taken on June 1 2013 in Clarksville, MD
* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC
Matsu Shima
Pink stems and also with variegated leaves.
Nishiki
variegation on margins of foliage is translucent pink in spring turning cream in summer.
* photo taken on May 8 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
* photos taken on October 17 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.
Sundrops and Evening Primrose
Oenothera
Perennials and biennials, that are mostly hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on light sandy soil though soil tolerant.
Propagation is from seed, soft cuttings or division while dormant.
The young leaves of the Primrose can be eaten as a pot herb if boiled for 20 minutes in a change of water.
The abundant immature seed pods are edible and can be added to salads.
Oenothera acaulis
A dwarf, turfed perennial, reaching a maximum size of 8 inches x 2 feet, that is native to Chile.
The coarsely-toothed, Dandelion-shaped leaves are up to 8 inches in length.
The white ( fading to pink ), saucer-shaped flowers, up to 3.2 inches across, are borne all summer long. The flowers open during the evening.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Great for rock gardens.
Aurea
Yellow flowers
Oenothera African Sun
Forms a low, perennial carpet with rich green foliage and profuse golden-yellow flowers all summer long.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Looks great cascading over walls.
Oenothera berlandieri ( Mexican Evening Primrose )
A fast growing, mat-forming perennial.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
Very tolerant of drought and heat.
Siskiyou
Very fast growing, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 6 feet.
The fragrant, pink flowers, up to 3 inches across, are borne abundantly all summer long.
May be invasive on sites that are fertile.
* photos of unknown internet source
* photo taken on June 1 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 26 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 22 2013 in Columbia, MD
Woodside White
Fast growing, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 6 feet.
The fragrant, pure white ( with bright green throat ) flowers, up to 3 inches across, are borne all summer long. The flowers fade to pink as they age.
May be invasive on sites that are fertile.
Oenothera biennis ( Common Evening Primrose )
A biennial, reaching up to 6 feet in height, that is native to eastern North America.
The hairy leaves are mid-green.
The fragrant, pale yellow flowers open during the evening or cloudy days.
Oil from the seed contains gamma-linolenic acid which is an essential fatty acid which is considered to lower blood cholesterol.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun. Propagation is easy from seed and it often self seeds. Pest and disease resistant.
* photo taken on Aug 4 2013 in Bayfield, Ontario
* photo taken on Aug 25 2013 @ University of Maryland, College Park
Oenothera brevipes ( Desert Primrose )
Oenothera caespitosa ( Tufted Evening Primrose )
A rhizome spreading, tufted, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 inches x 2 feet, that is native to the southwest U.S.
The coarsely-toothed, narrow leaves are up to 6 inches in length.
The fragrant, white flowers, up to 4 inches across, are borne on short stems during the summer.
The flowers open during the evening.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on light, sandy, dry soil. Hates winter wetness.
Oenothera californica ( California Evening Primrose )
Oenothera Cold Crick
A hybrid with Oenthera fruitcosa parentage. A fast growing, dense, clumping perennial, reaching 1 x 1.5 feet.
The deep green, narrow foliage turns to intense orange-red during autumn. The stems are reddish.
The very profuse, glowing bright yellow flowers on late spring to early summer. It usually blooms for 6 or more weeks and does not produce seed, therefore it is not invasive.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun on fertile, well drained soil. Deer resistant. Cut back by 1/2 after blooming. It can be propagated from cuttings or by division during early spring.
Oenothera fremontii
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
Lemon Silver
Forms a low, spreading mat, reaching a maximum size of 8 inches x 2 feet.
The non-toothed, long, silvery foliage contrasts with large, pale yellow flowers, up to 3 + inches across, that are borne early summer to early autumn.
* photo taken on May 18 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 26 2013 in Baltimore Co., MD
Shimmer
Reaches up to 10 x 15 inches, with very narrow, fine-textured, silvery-gray foliage.
The bright yellow flowers, up to 3 inches across, are borne late spring through summer.
* photo taken on 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
Oenothera fruticosa ( Common Sundrops )
A long-lived perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5.3 x 4 + ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to North America. Spreads by underground roots to form large stands.
The narrow leaves, up to 4.5 inches in length, are deep green.
The yellow flowers, up to 2.3 inches across, are borne during late spring into summer and are open during the daytime only.
Hardy zones 2 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
It is very drought tolerant. Divide every 2 to 3 years to maintain vigor.
* photos taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
* photos taken on June 6 2012 in Columbia, MD
Fireworks
Reaches a maximum size of 5.5 x 4 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, with red stems and yellow flowers, up to 3 inches across, borne early to mid summer.
* photo taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
subsp glauca
Reaches a maximum height of 1.5 feet, with red stems bearing foliage that is red tinted when young. The lightly fragrant, bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers are borne mid to late summer.
Highlight
Upright in habit, reaching up to 15 inches, with lightly fragrant, bright yellow borne all summer long.
Lapsley
Reaches a maximum size of 1.5 feet, with large, yellow flowers borne all summer long.
Summer Solstice
Reaches a maximum size of 2 x 4 feet, with foliage that turns bright red during summer, then to deep burgundy red during autumn.
The bright yellow flowers are borne from early summer to early autumn.
Yellow River
Reaches a maximum height of 1.5 feet, with green stems and yellow flowers, up to 3 inches across.
Oenothera hookerii ( Hookers Evening Primrose )
Oenothera howardii ( Bronze Evening Primrose )
A biennial, reaching up to 4 feet in height.
The hairy leaves are green.
The large, yellow flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 4 to 9
Oenothera kunthiana ( Kunch Sundrop )
A perennial, reaching up to 15 inches in height.
The foliage is deep green.
The pink or rarely white flowers open during the morning.
Hardy zones 6 to 9
Glowing Magnet
* photo taken on 2012 in Columbia, MD
Oenothera lamarckiana
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 3 feet.
The yellow flowers are up to 4 inches across.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
Oenothera Lemon Drops
A low, spreading, rhizomatous, groundcover perennial, reaching up to 21 inches x 3 feet. The attractive foliage is deep green. The bright yellow flowers, up to 1 inch across, are borne all summer long. It does not set seed so it does not self seed or require deadheading. Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. It is heat, drought and poor soil tolerant.
* photos taken on June 4 2012 in Columbia, MD
Oenothera macrocarpa ( Missouri Evening Primrose )
Also called Ozark Sundrops. A fast growing, long lived, deep rooted, mat-forming, prostrate, spreading perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 4 ( rarely over 1 ) feet, that is native to south central U.S. The Missouri Evening Primrose forms a massive underground tuber in order to preserve moisture during drought. It looks great cascading over retaining walls.
The narrow leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are glossy deep green.
The showy, huge, bright yellow flowers, up to 6 ( rarely over 4 ) inches across, that open during the afternoon and close the next morning. The flowers are borne late spring to mid autumn.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on deep, light, well drained soil. Very drought tolerant, it does tolerate clay if not waterlogged. Deer resistant and attracts butterflies.
* photos taken on Aug 1 2013 in Stratford, Ontario
Comanche Campfire
Reaches up to 16 inches x 2 feet, with silvery foliage and bright yellow flowers borne over a long season.
Hardy zones 4 to 9, it originated in western Oklahoma and is very heat tolerant.
supsp. incana
Reaches a maximum height of 8 inches, with silvery-gray foliage and large, golden-yellow flowers borne on red stems.
Silver Blade
A groundcover perennial, reaching only 5 inches in height, with silver-gray foliage.
Oenothera missouriensis ( Ozark Sundrops )
Also called Missouri Primrose. A fast growing, prostrate, mat-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 4 feet, that is native to the south central U.S. ( Kansas to Missouri; south to Texas ).
The narrow leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are deep green.
The pale yellow flowers, up to 6 inches across, are borne on short stems from late spring to mid autumn. The flowers open during the evening.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil. Extremely drought tolerant. Does not like extreme heat when combined with humidity and will actually do better in cooler summer maritime climates.
Oenothera perennis ( Dwarf Sundrops )
A fast growing to invasive, neat, tufted perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 feet x 32 inches.
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 2 inches in length.
The yellow, cup-shaped flowers, up to 1 inch across, are borne on leafy spikes during summer. The flowers open during the daytime.
Hardy zones 4 to 9
Oenothera pilosella ( Pilosella Sundrops )
A noninvasive perennial, reaching a maximum height of 28 inches, that is native to the central U.S.
The attractive mid-green foliage turns red during autumn.
The golden-yellow flowers are borne profusely during late spring then occasionally during summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
Oenothera rosea
Reaches up to 1 foot with fragrant, soft pink flowers borne early summer to early autumn.
Oenothera speciosa ( Pink Sundrops )
A fast spreading to invasive, rhizomatous perennial, reaching a maximum height of 20 ( rarely over 10 ) inches, that is native to the south central U.S. from Kansas to Texas. It can be used as a groundcover on large sites and can even be mowed on occasion.
The mid-green foliage turns to deep red during autumn.
The white ( aging to deep pink ), cup-shaped flowers are borne late spring lasting into early autumn. The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
The flowers are open during the daytime, unlike many related species that bloom during evening and night.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. It is easy to grow in hot summer regions and will even grow in dry partial shade with dense tree roots ( a good idea, it may be slightly less invasive there ). Very heat and drought tolerant, even thriving against south facing walls and in parking lot islands. Deer resistant.
Planting in containers will keep this plant contained.
Oenothera tetragona
A fast spreading to invasive perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5.5 x 5 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to eastern North America.
The leaves, up to 8 inches in length, are deep green. The foliage often turns to red by late summer.
The silky flowers, up to 2 inches across, are yelow. The flowers are open during the daytime.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
var cinaeus
Foliage is bronze during spring. The large flowers are deep yellow.
var. fraseri
Blue-green foliage and large flowers, up to 2 inches across.
var riparia
Dwarf in habit, reaching up to 8 x 16 inches. Great for rock gardens.
Read More..
Perennials and biennials, that are mostly hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on light sandy soil though soil tolerant.
Propagation is from seed, soft cuttings or division while dormant.
The young leaves of the Primrose can be eaten as a pot herb if boiled for 20 minutes in a change of water.
The abundant immature seed pods are edible and can be added to salads.
Oenothera acaulis
A dwarf, turfed perennial, reaching a maximum size of 8 inches x 2 feet, that is native to Chile.
The coarsely-toothed, Dandelion-shaped leaves are up to 8 inches in length.
The white ( fading to pink ), saucer-shaped flowers, up to 3.2 inches across, are borne all summer long. The flowers open during the evening.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Great for rock gardens.
Aurea
Yellow flowers
Oenothera African Sun
Forms a low, perennial carpet with rich green foliage and profuse golden-yellow flowers all summer long.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Looks great cascading over walls.
Oenothera berlandieri ( Mexican Evening Primrose )
A fast growing, mat-forming perennial.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
Very tolerant of drought and heat.
Siskiyou
Very fast growing, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 6 feet.
The fragrant, pink flowers, up to 3 inches across, are borne abundantly all summer long.
May be invasive on sites that are fertile.
* photos of unknown internet source
* photo taken on June 1 2010 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on May 26 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 22 2013 in Columbia, MD
Woodside White
Fast growing, reaching a maximum size of 1 x 6 feet.
The fragrant, pure white ( with bright green throat ) flowers, up to 3 inches across, are borne all summer long. The flowers fade to pink as they age.
May be invasive on sites that are fertile.
Oenothera biennis ( Common Evening Primrose )
A biennial, reaching up to 6 feet in height, that is native to eastern North America.
The hairy leaves are mid-green.
The fragrant, pale yellow flowers open during the evening or cloudy days.
Oil from the seed contains gamma-linolenic acid which is an essential fatty acid which is considered to lower blood cholesterol.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun. Propagation is easy from seed and it often self seeds. Pest and disease resistant.
* photo taken on Aug 4 2013 in Bayfield, Ontario
* photo taken on Aug 25 2013 @ University of Maryland, College Park
Oenothera brevipes ( Desert Primrose )
Oenothera caespitosa ( Tufted Evening Primrose )
A rhizome spreading, tufted, evergreen perennial, reaching a maximum size of 10 inches x 2 feet, that is native to the southwest U.S.
The coarsely-toothed, narrow leaves are up to 6 inches in length.
The fragrant, white flowers, up to 4 inches across, are borne on short stems during the summer.
The flowers open during the evening.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on light, sandy, dry soil. Hates winter wetness.
Oenothera californica ( California Evening Primrose )
Oenothera Cold Crick
A hybrid with Oenthera fruitcosa parentage. A fast growing, dense, clumping perennial, reaching 1 x 1.5 feet.
The deep green, narrow foliage turns to intense orange-red during autumn. The stems are reddish.
The very profuse, glowing bright yellow flowers on late spring to early summer. It usually blooms for 6 or more weeks and does not produce seed, therefore it is not invasive.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun on fertile, well drained soil. Deer resistant. Cut back by 1/2 after blooming. It can be propagated from cuttings or by division during early spring.
Oenothera fremontii
Hardy zones 4 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
Lemon Silver
Forms a low, spreading mat, reaching a maximum size of 8 inches x 2 feet.
The non-toothed, long, silvery foliage contrasts with large, pale yellow flowers, up to 3 + inches across, that are borne early summer to early autumn.
* photo taken on May 18 2013 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Sep 26 2013 in Baltimore Co., MD
Shimmer
Reaches up to 10 x 15 inches, with very narrow, fine-textured, silvery-gray foliage.
The bright yellow flowers, up to 3 inches across, are borne late spring through summer.
* photo taken on 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
Oenothera fruticosa ( Common Sundrops )
A long-lived perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5.3 x 4 + ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to North America. Spreads by underground roots to form large stands.
The narrow leaves, up to 4.5 inches in length, are deep green.
The yellow flowers, up to 2.3 inches across, are borne during late spring into summer and are open during the daytime only.
Hardy zones 2 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil.
It is very drought tolerant. Divide every 2 to 3 years to maintain vigor.
* photos taken on May 16 2011 in Washington, D.C.
* photos taken on June 6 2012 in Columbia, MD
Fireworks
Reaches a maximum size of 5.5 x 4 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, with red stems and yellow flowers, up to 3 inches across, borne early to mid summer.
* photo taken on June 10 2013 in Columbia, MD
subsp glauca
Reaches a maximum height of 1.5 feet, with red stems bearing foliage that is red tinted when young. The lightly fragrant, bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers are borne mid to late summer.
Highlight
Upright in habit, reaching up to 15 inches, with lightly fragrant, bright yellow borne all summer long.
Lapsley
Reaches a maximum size of 1.5 feet, with large, yellow flowers borne all summer long.
Summer Solstice
Reaches a maximum size of 2 x 4 feet, with foliage that turns bright red during summer, then to deep burgundy red during autumn.
The bright yellow flowers are borne from early summer to early autumn.
Yellow River
Reaches a maximum height of 1.5 feet, with green stems and yellow flowers, up to 3 inches across.
Oenothera hookerii ( Hookers Evening Primrose )
Oenothera howardii ( Bronze Evening Primrose )
A biennial, reaching up to 4 feet in height.
The hairy leaves are green.
The large, yellow flowers are borne all summer long.
Hardy zones 4 to 9
Oenothera kunthiana ( Kunch Sundrop )
A perennial, reaching up to 15 inches in height.
The foliage is deep green.
The pink or rarely white flowers open during the morning.
Hardy zones 6 to 9
Glowing Magnet
* photo taken on 2012 in Columbia, MD
Oenothera lamarckiana
A perennial, reaching a maximum height of 3 feet.
The yellow flowers are up to 4 inches across.
Hardy zones 4 to 8
Oenothera Lemon Drops
A low, spreading, rhizomatous, groundcover perennial, reaching up to 21 inches x 3 feet. The attractive foliage is deep green. The bright yellow flowers, up to 1 inch across, are borne all summer long. It does not set seed so it does not self seed or require deadheading. Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on well drained soil. It is heat, drought and poor soil tolerant.
* photos taken on June 4 2012 in Columbia, MD
Oenothera macrocarpa ( Missouri Evening Primrose )
Also called Ozark Sundrops. A fast growing, long lived, deep rooted, mat-forming, prostrate, spreading perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 4 ( rarely over 1 ) feet, that is native to south central U.S. The Missouri Evening Primrose forms a massive underground tuber in order to preserve moisture during drought. It looks great cascading over retaining walls.
The narrow leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are glossy deep green.
The showy, huge, bright yellow flowers, up to 6 ( rarely over 4 ) inches across, that open during the afternoon and close the next morning. The flowers are borne late spring to mid autumn.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun on deep, light, well drained soil. Very drought tolerant, it does tolerate clay if not waterlogged. Deer resistant and attracts butterflies.
* photos taken on Aug 1 2013 in Stratford, Ontario
Comanche Campfire
Reaches up to 16 inches x 2 feet, with silvery foliage and bright yellow flowers borne over a long season.
Hardy zones 4 to 9, it originated in western Oklahoma and is very heat tolerant.
supsp. incana
Reaches a maximum height of 8 inches, with silvery-gray foliage and large, golden-yellow flowers borne on red stems.
Silver Blade
A groundcover perennial, reaching only 5 inches in height, with silver-gray foliage.
Oenothera missouriensis ( Ozark Sundrops )
Also called Missouri Primrose. A fast growing, prostrate, mat-forming perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 x 4 feet, that is native to the south central U.S. ( Kansas to Missouri; south to Texas ).
The narrow leaves, up to 6 inches in length, are deep green.
The pale yellow flowers, up to 6 inches across, are borne on short stems from late spring to mid autumn. The flowers open during the evening.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade on very well drained soil. Extremely drought tolerant. Does not like extreme heat when combined with humidity and will actually do better in cooler summer maritime climates.
Oenothera perennis ( Dwarf Sundrops )
A fast growing to invasive, neat, tufted perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 feet x 32 inches.
The lance-shaped leaves are up to 2 inches in length.
The yellow, cup-shaped flowers, up to 1 inch across, are borne on leafy spikes during summer. The flowers open during the daytime.
Hardy zones 4 to 9
Oenothera pilosella ( Pilosella Sundrops )
A noninvasive perennial, reaching a maximum height of 28 inches, that is native to the central U.S.
The attractive mid-green foliage turns red during autumn.
The golden-yellow flowers are borne profusely during late spring then occasionally during summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
Oenothera rosea
Reaches up to 1 foot with fragrant, soft pink flowers borne early summer to early autumn.
Oenothera speciosa ( Pink Sundrops )
A fast spreading to invasive, rhizomatous perennial, reaching a maximum height of 20 ( rarely over 10 ) inches, that is native to the south central U.S. from Kansas to Texas. It can be used as a groundcover on large sites and can even be mowed on occasion.
The mid-green foliage turns to deep red during autumn.
The white ( aging to deep pink ), cup-shaped flowers are borne late spring lasting into early autumn. The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
The flowers are open during the daytime, unlike many related species that bloom during evening and night.
Hardy zones 5 to 9 in full sun to partial shade. It is easy to grow in hot summer regions and will even grow in dry partial shade with dense tree roots ( a good idea, it may be slightly less invasive there ). Very heat and drought tolerant, even thriving against south facing walls and in parking lot islands. Deer resistant.
Planting in containers will keep this plant contained.
Oenothera tetragona
A fast spreading to invasive perennial, reaching a maximum size of 5.5 x 5 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, that is native to eastern North America.
The leaves, up to 8 inches in length, are deep green. The foliage often turns to red by late summer.
The silky flowers, up to 2 inches across, are yelow. The flowers are open during the daytime.
Hardy zones 3 to 8 in full sun to partial shade.
var cinaeus
Foliage is bronze during spring. The large flowers are deep yellow.
var. fraseri
Blue-green foliage and large flowers, up to 2 inches across.
var riparia
Dwarf in habit, reaching up to 8 x 16 inches. Great for rock gardens.
Thursday, March 6, 2014
My Landscape Design
my landscape design
Free landscape design ideas by architects and designers. Project 001Hedysarum
Hedysarum
Hedysarum occidentale ( Western Sweet Vetch )
Native to Alaska, this is among the very few plants there that may have potential as are native and have potential as a commercial food crop. The large roots are sweet tasting and can be gathered during autumn after frosts which enhance the taste.
This plant prefers cool climates, full sun on well drained soil.
Propagation is from seed.
Read More..
Hedysarum occidentale ( Western Sweet Vetch )
Native to Alaska, this is among the very few plants there that may have potential as are native and have potential as a commercial food crop. The large roots are sweet tasting and can be gathered during autumn after frosts which enhance the taste.
This plant prefers cool climates, full sun on well drained soil.
Propagation is from seed.
The New Perennial Movement Exhausted or Just Getting Good
Is the New Perennial movement losing its integrity? Or will its expansion reinvigorate it artistically?
New Horizons
But while none of this is technically “new,” this does not mean that naturalistic perennial design is exhausted. In fact, far from it. The broadening of the New Perennial movement—like the popularization of any artistic idea—will surely produce poor imitations. But for me, when I survey the work of so many contemporary practitioners using a heavily perennial palette, there is much more reason for enthusiasm than ennui. Consider the work of Petra Pelz, Dan Pearson, Roy Diblik, Nigel Dunnett, James Hitchmough, Cassian Schmidt, Heiner Luz, Sarah Price, Lauren Springer-Ogden, and so many others. The list of names alone suggests a broadening and diversification of a style that strengthens it artistically, not undermines it. My reasons for optimism extends beyond the work of these well-known practitioners. For me, the innovative work of designers such as Amalia Robredo using a heavily native palette of her home country Uruguay, shows the potential of this style to be adopted and reinterpreted in fresh ways as it is adapted in new continents.
Read More..
This year on this blog, I have started to celebrate the idea and expression of contemporary naturalistic design. I have made the claim that naturalistic design may be in a golden era. To show the diversity and complexity of this idea, I plan to highlight the work of several leading practitioners.
But my enthusiasm was given pause this week after reading Michael King’s thoughtful essay “Never New Gardening.” Michael makes the claim that when it comes to the New Perennial movement (and other gardening movements generally), there is nothing new under the sun. And Michael should know: he is a veteran writer and designer. His work documenting and experimenting with naturalistic perennial design (his preferred term is “perennial meadows”) is vast and impressive. Here is the core of his critique:
Now that the Dutch Wave has been renamed all we are left with is the look. New Perennial Planting has become pan-global with the same formula, using the same “new” plant assortment, being trotted out over and over again. Its success is fuelled by the sheer beauty of the plants it contains, but its integrity has been lost – leaving us with just another style of decorative planting. Michael King
Ouch. This well-written, stinging review left me thinking: is my enthusiasm about contemporary naturalism in all its diversity naïve? Is it all a bunch of imitative knockoffs of a few original practitioners? Or is there something more to it?
After some rumination, my impression is that Michael is right. The appellation of the term “new” to any of these ideas is not accurate. There is a long history in the 20th century alone of herbaceous planting inspired by nature. Both the New Perennial movement and the American native plant movement owe much its intellectual credibility and artistic expression to earlier generations. Michael’s article was a refreshing, well-reasoned call for a more honest, more pragmatic approach to gardening.
New Horizons
But while none of this is technically “new,” this does not mean that naturalistic perennial design is exhausted. In fact, far from it. The broadening of the New Perennial movement—like the popularization of any artistic idea—will surely produce poor imitations. But for me, when I survey the work of so many contemporary practitioners using a heavily perennial palette, there is much more reason for enthusiasm than ennui. Consider the work of Petra Pelz, Dan Pearson, Roy Diblik, Nigel Dunnett, James Hitchmough, Cassian Schmidt, Heiner Luz, Sarah Price, Lauren Springer-Ogden, and so many others. The list of names alone suggests a broadening and diversification of a style that strengthens it artistically, not undermines it. My reasons for optimism extends beyond the work of these well-known practitioners. For me, the innovative work of designers such as Amalia Robredo using a heavily native palette of her home country Uruguay, shows the potential of this style to be adopted and reinterpreted in fresh ways as it is adapted in new continents.
I have long wondered about the tendency in gardening to dismiss trends and movements. Certainly dogma of any kind can be annoying, particularly when it becomes a cliché. Indeed, the very nature of gardening is relational (a person to a plot of land), making it an intensely personal activity. So it is entirely natural to bristle at the “thou shalts” and “thou shalt nots” that are often byproducts of trends and movements.
But there’s also the danger that the gardener’s fierce independence creates a kind of solipsistic isolation that impoverishes our gardens rather than enlivens them. We should be wary of dogmas for sure; we should scrutinize trends and movements in order to keep them honest. But by all means, let us keep our eyes not just at the dirt at our feet (as fascinating as it is). There is a long, beautiful horizon to be savored and enjoyed if we just lift up our eyes.
Model Homes Ellicott City3 4
Model Homes - Ellicott City3
These are 2 Spruces that anchor a lot in Ellicott City, Maryland that are extremely large for their kind in Maryland. The Norway Spruce is one of the largest in the state. The only larger Spruce Ive ever seen in Maryland is in fact an Oriental Spruce and not a Norway. Blue Spruces tend to prefer cooler climates so the one in the photo is also an exceptional tree for the Baltimore area. So on this landscape renovation project I worked with the home owner to preserve and show off these trees that they are very happy to have on their lot. With little care other than a yearly cleaning out of old shaded out stems and a weekly or biweekly deep watering during summer drought, these Spruces will likely last decades and even centuries to come. The natural needle mulch was left in place. It keeps the soil cool and moist and adds to the health of these trees. Studies show that trees with no turf on their roots often grow double or more the rate of trees that do.
I always enjoy preserving unique and historic plants on projects I work on. These Spruces required alot of climbing and alot of time as I selectively thinned out the canopies to enhance their natural effect. This has been one of my favorite projects this year. Hope you enjoy these photos.
Before - June 2010
After - July 2010 ( Lawn was just treated permanently for Grubs with Milky Spore but would have to wait for cooler autumn weather to be seeded to repair grub damage - see spring 2011 pics for results )
Apr 5 2011 - My special order Texas White Redbuds finally came in
* limbed up, feathered and fertilized, these spectacular Spruces dominate the neighborhood. They look even better now with a renovated lawn treated with Milky Spore to permanently and safely eradicate grubs.
* front bed looks sparse now because I cut back and fertilized the fall installed Pocomoke ( dwarf ) Crape Myrtles, Hameln Pennisetums and Blue Ice Amsonias. They will be back with a vengeance!
* the main event mulch and new plant beds comes next week! Stay tuned
* photos taken on August 12 2011
* photos taken on May 3 2012 in Ellicott City, MD
* photos taken on June 8 2012
* photos taken on July 30 2012 
Model Homes - Ellicott City 4 * Before photos taken on Sep 3 2012
* After photos taken on Sep 15 2012 
* photos taken on Sep 25 2012
Read More..
These are 2 Spruces that anchor a lot in Ellicott City, Maryland that are extremely large for their kind in Maryland. The Norway Spruce is one of the largest in the state. The only larger Spruce Ive ever seen in Maryland is in fact an Oriental Spruce and not a Norway. Blue Spruces tend to prefer cooler climates so the one in the photo is also an exceptional tree for the Baltimore area. So on this landscape renovation project I worked with the home owner to preserve and show off these trees that they are very happy to have on their lot. With little care other than a yearly cleaning out of old shaded out stems and a weekly or biweekly deep watering during summer drought, these Spruces will likely last decades and even centuries to come. The natural needle mulch was left in place. It keeps the soil cool and moist and adds to the health of these trees. Studies show that trees with no turf on their roots often grow double or more the rate of trees that do.
I always enjoy preserving unique and historic plants on projects I work on. These Spruces required alot of climbing and alot of time as I selectively thinned out the canopies to enhance their natural effect. This has been one of my favorite projects this year. Hope you enjoy these photos.
Before - June 2010
After - July 2010 ( Lawn was just treated permanently for Grubs with Milky Spore but would have to wait for cooler autumn weather to be seeded to repair grub damage - see spring 2011 pics for results )
Apr 5 2011 - My special order Texas White Redbuds finally came in
* limbed up, feathered and fertilized, these spectacular Spruces dominate the neighborhood. They look even better now with a renovated lawn treated with Milky Spore to permanently and safely eradicate grubs.
* front bed looks sparse now because I cut back and fertilized the fall installed Pocomoke ( dwarf ) Crape Myrtles, Hameln Pennisetums and Blue Ice Amsonias. They will be back with a vengeance!
* the main event mulch and new plant beds comes next week! Stay tuned
* photos taken on August 12 2011
* photos taken on May 3 2012 in Ellicott City, MD
* photos taken on June 8 2012
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