Bells of Ireland, Molucella laevis
Bells of Ireland features an unusual green inflorescence have been a symbol of good luck for centuries. Learn more about Molucella laevis in this article.
Annuals Selection
Polka Dot Plant, Hypoestes phyllostachya
Fanciful leaves splashed in pink, red or white on green, makes polka dot plant a great accent plant. Once considered only a novelty houseplant, this tender tropical perennial has gained more popularity as an outdoor annual in the ground or in containers. The colorful foliage remains in good shape throughout the growing season as long as the weather is warm (above 50). To learn more about this fun plant, read this article…
Haworthias – Super Succulents for Small Spaces
Are you looking for a small plant to grow on a windowsill that doesn’t require too much light or lots of care? A Haworthia just might be what you need! This genus of many small succulents from southern Africa are great for their architectural interest, and their easy culture make them popular houseplants. To learn more about these interesting plants, read this article…
Nierembergia
Nierembergia is not a common plant in the upper Midwest. This perennial in the potato family is only hardy to zone 7, so in colder climates it is grown as an annual. It loves hot, dry weather, so is good for edging along pavement or flagstone, in rock gardens and in containers. To learn more about this plant that flowers in white or purple, read this article…
Verbena bonariensis
With its long, airy sprays of purple flowers attractive to butterflies, Verbena bonariensis is a great addition to the garden. It is a perennial, but only to zone 7, but is very easy to grow and can be used as an annual in colder climates. Learn more about Verbena bonariensis in this article.
Dichondra argentea ‘Silver Falls’
Looking for a trailing plant with silvery foliage? ‘Silver Falls’ dichondra fits the bill, with shimmering silver leaves on trailing stems. Only hardy to zone 8, it makes a great seasonal plant for containers. Learn more about this attractive foliage plant in this article.
Ageratum, Ageratum houstonianum
Not many bedding plants boast blue flowers. Ageratum flowers come in a variety of blue, pink and purple tones and various heights and are very dependable annuals. To learn more about this easy-to-grow, tender annual, read this article.
Lantana
Lantana is a tender perennial shrub that’s grown as a flowering annual in Wisconsin. The species may have rangy habits, but newer ornamental types are compact, more floriferous and come in a variety of colors. Learn more about this plant in this article.