Plants of the Week: March 10

Prunus mume ‘Matsubara Red’ is a recent addition to the Arboretum’s collection. Known as Japanese Apricot or Chinese plum, Prunus mume are some of the first deciduous trees to flower in late winter. ‘Matsubara Red’ produces masses of small double-red blossoms. This small tree, averaging 20’ in height, easily fits into most garden spaces.  Photo credit: J. Coceano

Garden location: Martin Bank, Terry Shane Teaching Garden

Hamamelis mollis is known for being the most fragrant of the witchhazels. Hamamelis mollis ‘Imperialis’ bears fragrant, pale yellow flowers up to 1” long, slightly larger in size than others in the species. ‘Imperialis’ originated in the early 1960s as a selection from the Hakoneya Nursery in Japan.   Photo credit: J. Coceano

Garden location: Near Papazian Hall

A favorite of the Scott Arboretum’s volunteer flower arrangers, Salix gracilistyla var. melanostachys is always popular for its unusual coloration and late winter bloom. The black pussy willow is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub commonly planted for its black catkins and tolerance of wet soil. It is recommended to cut back the shrub severely every 3 to 4 years to promote vigorous new growth. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Garden Location: near the West Garden and along Willets bank