Plants of the Week – September 5

The privet honeysuckle, Lonicera pileata, is a staple shrub used extensively throughout the Scott Arboretum. This ground-covering shrub bears lustrous dark green leaves on horizontal branches. Seen here circling the Calder sculpture, L. pileata slowly grows 2-3’ tall with a 3-5’ spread. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Looking for a graceful conifer that won’t quickly outgrow its allotted space? Consider Cedrus deodara ’Silver Mist’. This slow-growing conifer (6”/year) creates a conical, yet sweeping presence in the landscape. Small silver-green needles cover slightly pendulous branches. The nursery industry lauds C. deodara ‘Silver Mist’ for its ability to grow in full sun without scorching or discoloration.  Photo credit: J. Coceano

Coreopsis ‘Sienna Sunset’ is an excellent front of the border or container perennial. Numerous daisy-like flowers transition from orange to terra-cotta and apricot. Coreopsis ‘Sienna Sunset’ blooms for months on end in the sunny John W. Nason Garden along an asphalt path. Once established, this herbaceous perennial is drought tolerant and deer resistant. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Microbiota decussata, seen here in mass near Wharton Hall, slowly spreads to form a graceful and highly textural groundcover. The evergreen requires full to part sun and well draining soil. The dark green coloration of summer transitions to bronzy purple in winter. Photo credit: J. Coceano

All four plants featured will be offered at the Scott Associates’ Plant Sale.