IN SEARCH OF PERFECT PLANTS!

I have been a long-time fan of Richard Hawke and the plant evaluation trials that he oversees at Chicago Botanic Garden, an extraordinary public garden. The 2.5 acre Bernice E. Lavin Plant Evaluation Garden (Zone 5b) has been the testing ground for over 40 different genera, many of which are perennials. The winter issue of Garden Design magazine features nine of Richard’s favorite perennials (two of which are pictured) plus twelve less commonly known ones currently looking strong in current trials. Below are two of the showcased noteworthy perennials (photos by Bob Stefko)

Spigelia marilandica Native. Part Shade – Shade. Early summer flowering, 2′ tall, Zones 5 – 9 (pictured above)

Vernonia ‘Summers Swan Song’ Sun. fall blooming, 3′ tall, Zones 4 – 9

Get this info-packed winter magazine issue as a complimentary gift, by subscribing today to this quarterly, 148-page, ad-free magazine ($45 per year) with this special link, http://www.gardendesign.com/kerryannmendez or call (855) 624-5110 Monday – Friday, 8 – 5 PST and mention my name.