Plants of the Week – December 19

Japanese forest grass, Hakonechloa macra, adds grace and fluidity to the garden.  Recent selections have focused on color and variegation. Several cultivars are grown throughout the Scott Arboretum and all play a part in the fall garden, turning shades of light brown that reflect the low light. Cut them to the ground once the weight of winter snow flattens the grass.  Photo credit: J. Coceano

Described as a bicolor anemone form, Camellia oleifera ‘Winter’s Interlude’ blooms in shades of soft pink. The plant matures to a rounded form and begins flowering in October often carrying through into December. Photo credit: J. Coceano

Astilbe chinensis ‘Vision in Pink’ benefits from the moist, nutrient-rich soil and high canopy afforded it in the Harry Wood Garden. The airy soft pink plumes bloom mid-summer and remain ornamental long after flowering has finished. A favorite among Scott flower arrangers. Photo credit: J. Coceano

The turkey or bornmueller fir, Abies bornmuelleriana, is rarely seen in cultivation. The densely-needled fir reaches heights of 50’ and enjoys full sun. Some suspect the plant to be a natural cross between Abies nordmanniana (Nordmann fir) and A. cephalonica (Greek fir). Photo credit: J. Coceano