Plants of the Week – November 7

Quercus coccinea, near Clothier Hall, is a member of the red oak group common throughout the eastern half of North America, particularly along dry, sandy slopes of the Appalachian forests. Known as the scarlet oak, Q. coccinea is commonly planted as an ornamental tree for its open, airy crown and scarlet-red fall color. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Tillandsia streptophylla was one of several species offered for sale at the first annual Unusual Tropicals and Annuals Sale. Often referred to as air plants, tillandsias thrive without soil. This particular plant found a home on a concrete ornament in the Terry Shane Teaching Garden. Overwinter in a bright room where it can be misted periodically. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Acer saccharum ‘Endowment’ is a cultivar of sugar maple grown for its symmetrical canopy and smooth outline. Mature trees reach 45-50 feet in height and offer spectacular fall foliage. Reddish-orange and yellow leaves color simultaneously, creating a two-toned effect. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Hydrangea involucrata ‘Yokudanka’ is only one of many interesting plants collected and introduced by Dan Hinkley. The cultivar, not commonly seen in the trade or in gardens, originated in Japan. Inconsistently double flowers in muted-pink tones bloom through October and November.    Photo credit: J. Coceano