Cool-climate grasses are the types most suitable for use in the northern sections of the country, including the northeastern, northern, midwestern, and northern Pacific coastal areas. In these climates, winter temperatures go down to zero or below; and the summers, while hot, do not normally have exceptionally long periods with no rainfall. The perennial grasses … Read more
The real fun of pot gardening comes from having an array of mobile plant materials to use in pleasing displays indoors and out. What could be more cooling for summer than a collection of decorative grasses, arranged attractively? The tall grass of Phormium tenax atropurpureum with it’s exciting burgundy color and forms a contrast with … Read more
From the interest shown in Ophiopogon jaburan, or snake beard, by frequent garden visitors, I judge it is little used or known. If given a trial, however, I’m sure it would be a “must” for flower lovers. For me, it has two strong points in its favor. First, it is very hardy and is an … Read more
If you’re planning to grow groundcovers to create contrast and balance in your garden, Liriope muscari is an excellent choice for you! Liriope muscari, previously known as Liriope gigantea or Liriope exiliflora, is a broadleaf evergreen perennial belonging to the genus Liriope. It’s also a member of the Asparagaceae or Asparagus family, which comprises about … Read more
Ophiopogon jaburan (oh-fee-oh-POH-gon JA-bur-an) is a herbaceous perennial native to Korea and Japan. The genus name Ophiopogon comes from the Greek words “ophis” (snake) and “pogon” (beard), giving the plant the common name of Snakebeard. It is a grass-like groundcover, growing up to 1′ tall, and has a dwarf mounding form. The leaves of this … Read more
Have you discovered the grace and charm that certain ornamental grasses can bring to your garden? They’re quick, easy, and exciting to grow. There are both annual and perennial types. Some are majestic giants for backgrounds, screens, hedges, and exclamation points (not to mention the vain beauties that love to sit beside a tranquil stream … Read more
Carex testacea [KAR-eks, test-uh-SEE-uh] is a type of grass with coppery-brown leaves slowly turning orange during the colder seasons. It’s native to New Zealand and belongs to the Carex genus. The genus contains over 2000 species of grass-like plants. It’s also part of the Cyperaceae family, commonly called sedges. The plant has several common names … Read more