Plants of the Week – December 5

Mahonia x media ‘Charity’, planted near the entrance to the Cunningham House, is in full bloom. Growing 7-12 feet in height, but easily reduced in size through pruning, M. x media ‘Charity’ is one of several selections that resulted from crossing Mahonia japonica and M. lomariifolia. Provide this evergreen shrub with partial shade and protection from damaging winter winds. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Flowers are always appreciated in November and December. As the cultivar name implies Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis Rosea’ bears soft pink flowers in late autumn. Flushes of bloom are prompted by warm spells. Pulling double duty, P. subhirtella ‘Autumnalis Rosea’ produces a more floriferous flush of flowers in spring. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Pistacia chinensis, growing along Whittier Drive, is a medium-sized tree in the cashew family. Native to central and western China, P. chinensis, is planted worldwide in temperate areas as a street tree for fall color, attractive fruit set on female trees, and its ability to withstand poor soil quality. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Nandina domestica, planted along the foundation of Wharton Hall, has been grown in Chinese and Japanese gardens for centuries. William Kerr first introduced the plant to London in 1804. The British, unsure of its hardiness, grew the plant under glass. Since that time N. domestica has become a popular and prevalent plant. In Japan over 65 named cultivars are available. Photo credit: J. Coceano