Plant of the Week: June 13

Zantedeschia ‘White Giant’

Zantedeschia ‘White Giant’ is a gorgeous calla lily, consisting of a single, spiraled spadix brightly complementing its dark green foliage.  Native to southern Africa, the calla lily migrated throughout the world’s gardens as early as 1664, and has since become a staple of wedding and funeral arrangements.  Found here in the Isabelle Cosby Courtyard Garden, the single cream-colored flower seems to scream for attention through its green surroundings. It is poetic in its solitude.  But a word of warning to those with pets: should you choose to plant this at home, its tissues contain oxalic acid, a poison which will cause irritation in humans, but could be deadly to pets. Photo Credit: D. Morreale

Quercus macrocarpa

While some will prefer the bright, showy colors of the flowers that fill the Arboretum, I am personally drawn to the majesty and timelessness of trees.  This Quercus macrocarpa, located just behind the Terry Shane Teaching garden, is a prime example. This oak, planted as the class tree in 1876 provides a stunning canopy.  The state tree of Iowa, this example of oak prefers to grow in solitude, and is native to the Great Plain.  Technicalities aside, I truly love all of the oaks that surround campus, but this one holds a special place to me as a native of Swarthmore, as I recall playing in the grass under this bur oak, and sitting with my parents around the fish pond of the garden, also shaded by this tree. Photo Credit: D. Morreale

Schizophragma hydrangeoides ‘Moonlight’

Schizophragma hydrangeoides ‘Moonlight’ graces the stone breezeway between Clothier Hall and the Bell tower, welcoming passersby with a light, sweet scent.  The large white inflorescence of this slow growing Japanese hydrangea strongly contrast against the green and gray backdrops and give the side of Clothier a timeless, classic feel, as though you were approaching a 19th century castle.  Luckily, its beauty is not limited to the summer: In fall the leaves change to a bright yellow, and in winter, the tangle of woven tendrils create an amazing pattern on the arches, especially when covered in a light dusting of snow. And the best part: this vine is very tolerant of a shaded environment, which means no trees need to be removed should you want to grow it in a less than ideal Swarthmore garden. Photo Credit: D. Morreale