Wednesday, Jun. 03, 2009

Four Outstanding Performers for your Carolina Forest Yard

You are likely already familiar with gaura, lantana, salvia and verbena, but you may not be fully aware of how care-free and versatile these plants are.

These four are no-care perennials that bloom spring through fall - no deadheading, no insecticides, no slugs and no deer. Plant them in a spot with full sun and good drainage. They are OK with lean soil, heat and humidity. Although drought tolerant they do respond well to irrigation in drought conditions.

Gaura is commonly called Whirling Butterflies because it sends up tall spikes of white or pink flowers that move with the wind. Gaura brings a unique and tireless beauty to the garden as its flowers, high on their spikes, appear to whirl in the air. The 2-3 spikes grow up from a mound of evergreen foliage. Note: The dark spots on the leaves are normal.

Lantana produces flowers in solid white or yellow, and in various combinations that may include red, pink, orange, yellow and white. It grows in shrub or trailing form. Be sure to buy the right habit for its intended use. Lantana is a versatile plant for the garden because of form and color options. Cut it back during the growing season to control its size and promote continuous blooming. Note: It is important to plant lantana in spring or early summer so its roots have time to become well established before winter.

Salvia, also known as sage, is available in numerous varieties and colors, including red, blue, purple, coral, yellow and white. The bloom time, color and height (flower spikes up to 3) vary with the variety. Read plant tags in order to purchase the right salvia for its intended location. Salvia is an herb, with each variety sporting differently aromatic leaves. Be sure to check out the various scents.

Verbena, like lantana, is versatile because of its form and color options, except that verbena does not grow as large as lantana. Although both plants are suitable for container use, verbena is often a better choice because of its smaller size. Choose upright or trailing habit, with flowers in purple, violet, lavender, red, peach, pink or white. Verbena takes a breather from blooming mid-summer. Cut it back and wait a bit. It will come back with blooms well into the fall.

Lantana, salvia and verbena attract butterflies and hummingbirds, too. How easy does gardening get?

Debbie Menchek, who is a Clemson master Gardener, lives in Waterford Plantation. Send her your questions at dmgha3@aol.com