Archive for the ‘Ground cover’ Category

“It’s Wort…not Wart”

Barrenworts (Epimedium spp.) are a  collection of ground cover species mostly from Asia and Europe. None are native to North America, but most thrive in gardens in the Southern Appalachian region (USDA zones 6 and 7). There are currently 21 known species worldwide. Also called Bishop’s hat, barrenworts are one of our finest groundcovers for part sun to part shade areas. Some are […]

Doghobble for Shady Landscape Areas

Drooping doghobble or fetterbush  (Leucothoe fontanesiana) is native to woodland areas in the Southern Appalachian region (USDA zones 6 and 7). Doghobble is a tall ground cover, averaging 3 – 4 feet in height.  The long gently arching evergreen branches display a rambling nature, best reined in with hand pruning as needed. White fragrant flowers, […]

Be Careful What You’re Cutting Back

 Halfway through the autumn season, new plants have come to life, while most are retiring for a long winter’s nap (dormancy). About 4-5 weeks back, the leafy growth (vegetative) stage of the surprise lily (Lycoris radiata), also called “resurrection lily or “naked ladies”, appeared (left and center photos). When last seen in late July and August, brightly colored stalks of lycoris flowers had popped through with no leaves present. […]