D. A. Dunlevy
Clematis vines are a great option for training on arbors, walls, fences, or screens. Their large, summer blooms are available in shades of pink, purple, and white. This particular variety, Jackmanii, is perhaps the most profuse blooming purple clematis. The large purple flowers are 5-6" in size … Read More
Betula nigra, commonly referred to as River Birch, are known for their peeling bark characteristic. The exfoliating habit exposes different shades of the tree bark, adding interest to any landscape. The leaf canopy is a lustrous green in spring and summer, changing to yellow in fall. Light Needs: … Read More
You may be thinking that we are being redundant since last week's Plant of the Week was the Japanese Maple, but the Japanese Laceleaf is very unique from its relative. Arguably one of the most refined of all maples, the Acer palmatum 'Dissectum' has a much more … Read More
The upright (non-dissected) Japanese Maple is referred to as Acer Palmatum var Atropurpureum. This specimen tree is has attractive foliage that ranges in color from green to burgundy, depending on the variety and planting location. The variety pictured above is planted in a relatively shaded area. The … Read More
Fagus sylvatica, more commonly known as a European Beech, is a popular ornamental shade tree. Beech trees tend to branch close to the ground and are particularly dense. They are less hardy in areas south of DC as they do not tolerate extreme heat. The variety pictured … Read More
Peonies are a popular landscaping design idea because of their large, beautiful blooms. While peonies are available in many colors, 'Karl Rosenfield' is one of our favorites. Deep pink to red double flowers adorn this lovely perennial that blooms in May and June. Light Needs: Full sun Watering Needs: … Read More
Caladium is a unique accent plant for summer annuals or as tubers planted within a garden. Large, heart-shaped leaves are available in color combinations of red, pink, rose, white, chartreuse, and green. The foliage is almost translucent, which makes them light up a shaded garden area. Light Needs: … Read More
You may think that in our area, the Tropical Hibiscus is not an ideal plant for installing in a landscape. But it makes a great potted summer annual and can be housed indoors during colder months. The beautiful blooms are typically 6" in diameter and will last … Read More
Another great choice for summer annuals is Verbena. The clusters of small flowers provides variety from more traditional annuals. The blooms last throughout summer and come in a variety of colors, including red, purple, pink, white, and even peach. Light Needs: Full sun Watering Needs: Moderate, more in dry … Read More
Continuing our summer annual theme, Solenia Begonias are another great choice for flower beds. Somewhat unique from it's Wax relative, the Solenia Begonia has waxy leaves but a rose-like bloom from spring through fall. Available in orange, red, pink, and yellow shades, it is an excellent choice … Read More