Vibrant Earth - Annual Production List

Ht 7 x 4 mt.

ACE84.

PB 6.5.

Small, vase-shaped, multi-stemmed, deciduous tree. Small yellowish flowers bloom in late spring each year. Flowers are followed by fruits with wing and nutlets. Red-petioled, dark green leaves emerge late in spring each year. Autumn color ranges from yellow to orange to red. Cool, moist, acidic, well-drained soils in full sun to part-shade. Winter hardy. Shelter from strong winds. It is native to mixed forests and valleys in Sichuan Province, China. This is an endangered species on the brink of extinction in the wild.

ACHILLEA 'ANTHEA'.

Ht 40 x 40 cm.

ACH54.

POT 2.5.

Upright, clump-forming hybrid yarrow with deeply-dissected, fern-like, aromatic, silvery grey foliage and long-lasting, soft primrose-yellow flowers, that fade to cream which appear in dense, flattened, plate-like, compound clusters throughout the summer on erect stems. Best grown in lean, dry to medium moisture, well-drained sandy loams in full sun. Does well in average garden soils and tolerates poor soils. Avoid heavy clays and moist, rich, fertile soils. Deadhead spent flower heads to promote additional bloom. Divide clumps as needed to reinvigorate plantings.

ACHILLEA 'CASSIS'.

Ht 35 x 50 cm.

ACH55.

POT 2.5.

Upright, clump-forming hybrid yarrow with deeply-dissected, fern-like, aromatic, green gray foliage and long-lasting, bright red flowers which appear in dense, flattened, plate-like, compound clusters throughout the summer on erect stems. Best grown in lean, dry to medium moisture, well-drained sandy loams in full sun. Does well in average garden soils and tolerates poor soils. Avoid heavy clays and moist, rich, fertile soils. Deadhead spent flower heads to promote additional bloom. Divide clumps as needed to reinvigorate plantings.

ACHILLEA 'CORONATION GOLD'.

Ht 50 x 40 cm.

ACH57.

PB 5.

Upright, clump-forming hybrid yarrow with deeply-dissected, fern-like, aromatic, silvery to grey-green foliage and long-lasting, bright mustard-yellow flowers which appear in dense, flattened, plate-like, compound clusters throughout the summer on erect stems. Best grown in lean, dry to medium moisture, well-drained sandy loams in full sun. Does well in average garden soils and tolerates poor soils. Avoid heavy clays and moist, rich, fertile soils. Deadhead old flower heads encourage more flowers. Divide clumps as needed to reinvigorate plantings.

ACHILLEA 'RED VELVET'.

Hy 60 x 60 cm.

ACH62.

POT 2.5.

Upright, clump-forming hybrid yarrow with deeply-dissected, fern-like, aromatic, green grey foliage and long-lasting, dark red flowers which appear in dense, flattened, plate-like, compound clusters throughout the summer on erect stems. Best grown in lean, dry to medium moisture, well-drained sandy loams in full sun. Does well in average garden soils and tolerates poor soils. Avoid heavy clays and moist, rich, fertile soils. Deadhead spent flower heads to promote additional bloom. Divide clumps as needed to reinvigorate plantings.

ACHILLEA 'TERRACOTTA'.

Ht 50 x 50 cm.

ACH65.

POT 2.5.

Upright, clump-forming hybrid yarrow with deeply-dissected, fern-like, aromatic, green grey foliage and long-lasting, apricot-orange flowers which appear in dense, flattened, plate-like, compound clusters throughout the summer on erect stems. Best grown in lean, dry to medium moisture, well-drained sandy loams in full sun. Does well in average garden soils and tolerates poor soils. Avoid heavy clays and moist, rich, fertile soils. Deadhead spent flower heads to promote additional bloom. Divide clumps as needed to reinvigorate plantings.

ALCHEMILLA MOLLIS 'THRILLER'.

Ht 15 x 40 cm.

AL15.

POT 2.5.

Clumping perennial which forms a mound of scallop-edged, soft-hairy, light green leaves. It is native to mountain areas in eastern Europe. Star-shaped, chartreuse flowers appear in loose, spreading clusters on stems rising above the foliage in late spring to early summer. The leaves retain moisture beads after a rain. A unique and attractive ornamental feature. Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade, but tolerates close to full shade. Prefers part afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Performs well in moist garden areas

BAPTISIA AUSTRALIS.

Ht 70 x 60 cm.

BA40.

POT 2.5.

Upright perennial with clover-like, bluish-green leaves. Purple-blue, lupine-like flowers on erect spikes in spring. Inflated seed pods which turn charcoal black when ripe. Once used by children as rattles, and are great for dried flower arrangements. Occurs naturally in rich woods, and along streambanks from Pennsylvania south to North Carolina and Tennessee. Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates drought and poor soils. Over time, plants develop slowly expanding clumps with deep and extensive root systems. The common name of false indigo refers to the use of by early American colonists as a substitutes, for true indigo (genus Indigofera) in making dyes.

CALAMAGROSTIS 'KARL FOERSTER'.

Ht 1.5 x 1 mt.

CAL03.

PB 6.5.

Clump-forming ornamental grass with rich green leaves. In summer narrow plumes of feathery, purplish-green flowers on tall spikes. These turn golden as the seeds mature in summer. Provides good winter interest. Gives a vertical accent to the landscape. Easily grown in average, medium to wet soil in full sun. Does well in heavy clay soils. Appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Cut clumps to the ground in late winter just before the new shoots appear. This grass will not self-seed in the garden because seeds are sterile. Clumps can be invasive in damp conditions.

CALAMAGROSTIS 'OVERDAM'.

Ht. 1 x 1 mt.

CAL04.

PB 6.5.

Clump-forming ornamental grass with rich green leaves striped with white. In summer narrow plumes of feathery, purplish-green flowers on tall spikes. These turn golden as the seeds mature in summer. Provides good winter interest. Gives a vertical accent to the landscape. Easily grown in average, medium to wet soil in full sun. Does well in heavy clay soils. Appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Cut clumps to the ground in late winter just before the new shoots appear. This grass will not self-seed in the garden because seeds are sterile. Clumps can be invasive in damp conditions.

CAMELLIA 'CURLY LADY'.

Ht 1.5 x 1 mt.

CAM20.

POT 2.5.

This new variety of unique Camellia from Quality Growers, is a large evergreen shrub and has dark glossy, slightly twisted green leaves and produce large buds in winter which open up into large rosette pink flowers in early Spring giving a spectacular show. The main feature of this beautiful Camellia is the twisted curly branches. They grow well in semi shade or shade and prefer acid soil or ericaceous compost if planting them in containers. Great low maintenance evergreen shrub. Plant away from cold winter winds and morning sun.

CAMELLIA 'KATE SHEPPARD'.

Ht 2.5 x 2 mt.

CAM39.

PB 6.5.

Large attractive shrub with an erect dense growing habit. Lustrous leathery dark green leaves. In spring it has beautiful large white informal double anemone flowers with sometimes a touch of pale pink. Very hardy though thrives in good loamy soil that does not get too dry. Prefers a semi-shaded sheltered site. Excellent for a formal garden. Hardy. During the campaign for women�s suffrage, those who supported the 1893 Electoral Bill were presented with a white camellia to wear in their buttonhole. The white camellia has since become an endearing symbol of women�s suffrage in New Zealand, and a new variety, named after Kate Sheppard, was created for the 100th anniversary in 1993. Bred by Viv Joyce of Taranaki.

CARMICHAELIA AUSTRALIS.

Ht 2 x 1 mt.

CAR60.

PB 6.5.

NZ native broom. Small tree or shrub with small green twigs that grow from multiple branches stemming from the base of the plant. Hardy and fast growing plant that is found in the North Island and top of the South Island. Grows naturally in lowland and mid-montane areas often on scrublands or forest margins where it prefers full sunlight. In the spring through to summer it has small white flowers with purple centres. Prefers full sun and well drained soil but tolerates dry, windy and cold conditions. Best used in places that show off its unique structure and open foliage.

CEPHALOTAXUS HARRINGTONIA 'FASTIGIATA'.

Ht 3 x 1 mt.

CEP10.

POT 2.5.

An evergreen that typically grows as a shrub but may be trained as a tree. Growth is slow. It is native to shaded woodland areas in Japan, northeastern China and Korea. Yew-like, evergreen leaves on erect stems, many of which rise up from the base of the plant. Female flowers produce fleshy, edible, plum-like fruits. Excellent tolerance for both shade and hot weather make this species an interesting substitute for true yews. Plants are commonly called plum yews because the fruits on female plants resemble tiny plums and the foliage resembles that of yews (Taxus). Hardy.

CERCIS CANADENSIS.

Ht 6 x 6 mt.

CE55.

PB 6.5.

Deciduous often multi-trunked understory tree with a rounded crown. Stunning pea-like rose-purple flowers on bare branches in early spring before the foliage emerges. This tree is native to eastern and central North America. It is found naturally in open woodlands. Flattened leguminous bean-like dry seedpods that mature to brown in summer. Dull green to blue-green leaves turn pale yellow to greenish-yellow in Autumn. Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Part shade is best in hot summer climates. Avoid wet or poorly drained soils.

CLEMATIS VIT. 'AOTEAROA'.

Ht 3 x 1 mt.

CLE23.

POT 3.5.

Vigorous scrambler with deep violet 12cm across flowers, anthers contrasting lemon yellow. Flower in early summer to early autumn. It needs hard pruning late winter. Goodt for enhancing roses, perennials and any other shrub. Viticellas are extremely cold hardy and more wind tolerant than the large flowering types, are resistant to stem-wilt. Viticellas tend to be single stemmed and spindly growing in the first year or two. Thereafter they will grow very strong. Selected by Alister Keay from Christchurch.

CLEMATIS VIT. 'KERMESINA'.

Ht.3 x 3 mt.

CLE52.

POT 3.5.

Vigorous scrambler with wine red flowers, anthers contrasting brown. Flower in early summer to early autumn. It needs hard pruning late winter. They are great for enhancing roses and any other shrub. They look good scrambling through the taller perennials. Viticellas are extremely cold hardy and more wind tolerant than the large flowering types, they are resistant to stem-wilt. Viticellas tend to be single stemmed and spindly growing in the first year or two. Thereafter they will grow very strong.

CLYTOSTOMA CALLISTEGIOIDES.

Ht 3 x 2 mt.

CLY05.

POT 3.5.

Evergreen vine with a dense foliage. Leathery bright glossy green leaves, new flushes of foliage are an attractive bronze color. The trumpet-shaped lavender flowers have intricate darker purple veins and appear in pairs. It flowers heavily mid to late spring and then off and on in late spring through autumn . Plant in full sun to part shade, drought tolerant once established. Tolerant of heavy soils. It is both beautiful and attractive to pollinators such as bees, and butterflies. This vine is native to Argentina and southern Brazil. Avoid heavy frost.

CORYDALIS 'BLUE HERON'.

Ht 20 x 25 cm.

COR87.

POT 2.5.

Clumping perennial. It forms a mound of ferny blue-grey foliage, topped for several weeks in the spring with clusters of intense sapphire-blue fragrant blooms. Give this a cool, shady position with regular moisture. May go dormant in summer if kept too hot or dry. Habit appears to be distinctly clumping rather than spreading, with little or no self seeding. An absolute gem for the moist woodland garden. Collected in Sichuan, China by Dan Hinkley of the famous Heronswood Nursery in Washington State. Cold hardy, needs a sheltered site.

DISPOROPSIS PERNYI.

Ht 40 x 50 cm.

DIS25.

POT 2.5.

Rhizomatous, clump-forming perennial that is native to shaded mountain areas in forests, valleys or along streams in southern China. Strong, upright-arching, purple-spotted stems clad with shiny, leathery, dark evergreen leaves. Pendulous, tubular, creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers in late spring, they hang from undersides at each leaf axil. Flowers give way to purple-blue berries that ripen in early autumn. Best grown in moist, humusy, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Will slowly naturalize by creeping rhizomes to form colonies in optimum growing conditions. Tolerates dry and full shade. Hardy.

DOMBEYA BURGESSIAE.

Ht 3 x 3 mt.

DOM10.

PB 8.

Small fast growing tree with large, velvety, soft leaves. The pretty white or pink flowers persist on the plant fading to light russet brown, which maybe used in dry flower arrangements. The fruits are small, round, furry capsules. Occurs naturally KwaZulu-Natal northwards to Tanzania, on forest margins, hillsides and slopes and along stream banks. Baskets are made from the exceptionally strong bark. It grows very well in light shade, which makes it ideal for planting under the canopy of other trees. Tolerant to both light frost and periods of drought.

DORYANTHES PALMERII.

Ht. 2 x 3 mt.

DOR10.

POT 3.5.

Hardy, low maintenance plant with grey-green long ribbed sword-like leaves which form in rosettes. The flowering stalk can grow to five metres tall. Flowers are red or reddish-orange in spring. Roasted Doryanthes flower spikes were used as a food source for Indigenous Australians and the roots were mashed into a pulp and made into cakes. Occurs naturally in the McPherson Ranges of southeastern Queensland. They are xerophytes, meaning that they have adapted to dry conditions. It is suited to most soil types.

ELEGIA TECTORUM.

Ht 1.5 x 1m.

EL24.

POT 3.5.

This restio is a tall, dark green elegant plant with tufted reed-like leaves. It is an excellent feature plant. Looks fabulous in a windy open site. Best with good well drained soil that does not get too dry. Hardy. In nature, restios are mostly found in the Western Cape fynbos region where they occur together with proteas, pincushions, ericas and other fynbos species. Elegia tectorum occurs naturally in marshes and seeps on deep sand in the Western and Eastern Cape extending from Clanwilliam to Port Elizabeth. Plants may reach up to 1.5m in height with a spread of up to 2-3m.

EPIDENDRUM IBAGUENSE.

Ht 40 x 50 cm.

EPI10.

POT 1.5.

Perennial lithophytic that grows naturally on rocks. Leathery strap-like leaves and dense clusters of orange flowers. In a tropical setting, the plant will bloom all year. Native to South America. Needs heat, humidity and indirect sunlight to perform at its best. Although mature plants are drought tolerant, watering during the warmer months and reduced watering in the cooler months is best. If growing this orchid in a pot, use a fast-draining mix to prevent root rot. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn brown. Too little light may cause the plant to become leggy and reduced flowering.

EUPATORIUM MACULATUM.

Ht 100 x 50 cm.

EUP10.

PB 6.5.

Tall perennial with strong erect purple stained stems that are branched with attractive flat topped fragrant mauve pink flowers. They flower profusely from around mid summer into autumn, throughout the winter months they have ornamental seed heads. A great choice for the border, in wild meadow flower plantings, cottage gardens or as a cut flower. It will perform well in a full sun position but will tolerate some shade. It will grow in clay soils and will tolerate medium to wet soils. Cut the plant to the ground in late winter and it will come away vigorously in the spring. The flowers are fragrant and most attractive to pollinators in search of nectar so loved by bees and butterflies.

GAURA 'SISKIYOU PINK'.

Ht 80 x 60 cm.

GAU10.

POT 2.5.

Oenothera lindheimeri 'Siskiyou Pink' Erect, clump-forming perennial. Has butterfly-like flowers which emerge rose pink from deep maroon buds spring to autumn. Narrow leaves are mottled with maroon. Best grown in well-drained soil in full sun. Good drainage is essential. A taprooted plant which tolerates heat, humidity and some drought. Remove spent flowers to prolong bloom period. Plants can benefit from close planting or support from adjacent perennial. May be cut back in late spring by half to control size.

HELENIUM 'AUTUMN LOLLIPOP'.

Ht 60 x 50 cm.

HEL06.

PB 5.

Perennial with a basel clump of green leaves. In summer it has round bronze brown flowers top of a basal frill of down-turned petals that sit on flat stems. An excellent choice as a cut flower. Plant in full sun for best flowering although a little light shade is fine. These plants like regular moisture found naturally growing by creeks so mulching will help to retain moisture and watering regularly during dry spells will ensure profuse flowering. Loved by both bees and butterflies and birds love the seed. Great also for pots.

HIBISCUS SY. 'COLLIE MULLENS'.

Ht 3 x 1 mt.

HI20.

PB 6.5.

Erect bushy shrub with tall upright branches. Dark green trilobed leaves, these tend to emerge very pale, turning dark as the season warms. Many wide double magenta rose flowers with a crimson eye throughout the summer and autumn. They flower on current seasons wood, so best to prune or thin out the branches if necessary after flowering. Very easy care. They like a sunny site for best flowering with well drained soil, the better the soil the more lush the growth. Great for summer colour.

JUNIPERUS CONFERTA..

Ht 20 x 100 cm.

JU15.

PB 5.

Superior evergreen groundcover with bright apple-green prickly foliage with a small white band under the leaf. It has a widely spreading habit. The new growth emerges bright green. Lovely when planted around boulders or in rock gardens. A reliable plant for extreme climates. Thrives in rocky soils or the sandy gravel. Use on slopes for coverage or erosion control. Plant along retaining walls and curbs, where the creeping foliage will cover year-round. A native of Japan and Russia where it is found on sandy seashores.

LEPTOSPERMUM 'MAHINEPUA'.

Ht 10 x 100 cm.

LEP51.

POT 2.5.

A hardy dense prostrate shrub with aromatic foliage, branches have brown flaky bark. The leaves are dark green. It has exquisite white flowers in late winter and spring, these are well displayed. Wonderful food for the bees. This is a cultivar of our most common native tree, it grows naturally in many different sites and is very hardy. Great for growing in difficult ground. This plant was collected from the wild by Terry Hatch, of Joy Plants, and named L. �Mahinepua� after the place of discovery in Northland.

MERYTA SINCLAIRII.

Ht 4 x 2 mt.

ME30.

POT 3.5.

A much branched small tree, with clusters of huge oblong mid green glossy leaves, crowded at the end of stout branches. Clusters of small green flowers, followed by green then black berries. Tree has a very tropical appearance. Prefers good well drained soil that does not get too dry. Does not grow in frosty areas but will grow in windy and coastal sites. Grows naturally on the Three Kings, and Hen and Chicken Islands. Wonderful planted in a place where you can look down on the magnificent leaves.

METROSIDEROS 'CAROUSEL'.

Ht 30 x 100 cm.

MET39.

POT 2.5.

A shrub form of the climbing crimson rata. It forms a low growing spreading shrub with small shiny green leaves with yellow margins on long lax branchlets. Masses of bright carmine flowers appear in spring. Eyecatching! It needs a site sheltered from frost, in sun or semi-shade. Will not thrive in dry soils. Will cascade over rocks or walls.It was selected by Jim Rumble of Duncan and Davies Nurseries. If planted close to a wall or fence it may revert to is climbing form and attach to the wall and climb that way.

METROSIDEROS 'KOPERE'.

Ht. 8 x 5 mt.

MET46.

POT 3.5.

The iconic Pohutukawa is well known around coastal New Zealand. Over time it forms a broad spreading tree with gnarled trunks and branches. The leathery leaves are light grey-green above, with dense white hairs below. This selection was chosen by Graham Platt for its very showy clusters of vibrant rich red flowers which cover the tree in early summer. It grows best by the coast in areas that only get light frosts. Very hardy to dry conditions once established. Will form multiple trunks, unless these are removed.

METROSIDEROS 'REGENCY RED'.

Ht 10 x 5 mt.

MET54.

PB 6.5.

The iconic Pohutukawa is well known around coastal New Zealand. Over time it forms a broad spreading tree with gnarled trunks and branches. The leathery leaves are light grey-green above, with dense white hairs below. This selection was chosen by Graham Platt for it's very showy clusters of vibrant rich red flowers which cover the tree in early summer. It grows best by the coast in areas that only get light frosts. Very hardy to dry conditions once established. Will form multiple trunks, unless these are removed.

METROSIDEROS 'ROYAL CRIMSON'.

Ht 10 x 5 mt.

MET55.

PB 6.5.

The iconic Pohutukawa is well known around coastal New Zealand. Over time it forms a broad spreading tree with gnarled trunks and branches. The leathery leaves are light grey-green above, with dense white hairs below. This selection was chosen by Graham Platt for it's very showy clusters of vibrant rich red flowers which cover the tree in early summer. It grows best by the coast in areas that only get light frosts. Very hardy to dry conditions once established. Will form multiple trunks, unless these are removed.

METROSIDEROS KER. 'VARIEGATA'.

Ht 4 x 3 mt.

MET63.

PB 5.

Evergreen tree, native to the Kermadec Islands. Very similar to NZ's Pohutukawa which is well known around coastal New Zealand. Over time it forms a broad spreading tree with gnarled trunks and branches. Rounded green leaves are broadly margined with cream-yellow. Showy clusters of red flowers appear sporadically throughout the year. It grows best by the coast in areas that only get light frosts. Very hardy to dry conditions once established. Will form multiple trunks, unless these are removed.

MISCANTHUS S. 'MORNING LIGHT'.

Ht 2 x 1 mt.

MI30.

PB 6.5.

An ornamental perennial grass forming a thick clump of narrow, arching green leaves neatly edged with white giving an almost light silvery-green effect. Tall spikes of toi-toi like flowers in late summer, cream with a pinkish tone. Found naturally in moist soil in meadow or marshland. However can grow in garden soil in dryish conditions. Good at the back of herbaceous borders, as a screening plant or at the water's edge. Hardy to cold. Cut back deciduous foliage by the end of the winter.

MONSTERA DELICIOSA.

Ht 2 x 1 mt.

MON10.

POT 3.5.

Indoor houseplant with large and leathery leaves. Young plants have leaves that are smaller with no lobes (holes), but as they mature the holes will become apparent. The breadfruit produced by this plant tastes like exotic fruits. Very easy-care house plant requiring minimal maintenance. Water when the top 2-3cm of soil has dried out. When watering, give your plant a thorough soaking, do not leave your Monstera sitting in any water that has accumulated in the saucer. Filtered indirect but bright light.

NOTHOFAGUS TRUNCATA.

Ht 15 x 4 mt.

NO25.

PB 6.5.

A tall handsome tree developing a buttressed trunk with age, and a spreading crown. Medium green leaves are shining and have 8 pairs of bluntly toothed shallow teeth around upper two-thirds of their margin. The male flowers can have scarlet anthers which make it very showy in early summer. Occurs naturally in the North Island, and north of Marlborough and Greymouth in the South Island. Occurs in lowland and lower montane forests, sea-level to 900 mt. Hardy and grows in a wide range of conditions. Excellent specimen tree.

OLEA 'LECCINO'.

Ht 4 x 2 mt.

OL10STD.

POT 6.

An attractive small tree with narrow, oblong, silvery-grey foliage. Tiny white flowers are produced in summer followed by edible, green olives turning black when ripe. Ideal in containers or the garden and responds well to shaping. Ideal for specimen planting, hedging, and topiary. Tolerant of very poor soils, provided they are well drained. Best fruiting will occur in a moist fertile loam. Prune regularly to encourage fresh bushy growth, If growing for the fruit then prune after fruit collection. Frost hardy. This cultivar is known for the production of good Italian olive oil.

OLEARIA PANICULATA 'AKIRAHO'.

Ht 3 x 2 mt.

OL55.

PB 6.5.

A large shrub with a bushy habit. Branchlets are covered with brownish tomentum. Leaves are very large for this species, ovate-oblong, mid to light green with buff coloured tomentum underneath. Leaf edges are wavy. Numerous flower heads with creamy-white densely packed fragrant flowers in late summer and autumn. Occurs naturally in the North and South Islands, north of Oamaru, in coastal lowland to near montane scrubland and forest margins. Sea-level to 450 m. Very hardy and will tolerate dry conditions. Good in coastal and exposed conditions. Makes an excellent hedging plant.

OLEARIA PANICULATA..

Ht 3 x 2 mt.

OL50.

PB 6.5.

A large shrub with a bushy habit. Branchlets are covered with brownish tomentum. Leaves are ovate-oblong, mid to light green with buff coloured tomentum underneath. Leaf edges are wavy. Numerous flowers heads with creamy-white densely packed fragrant flowers in late summer and autumn. Occurs naturally in the North and South Islands, north of Oamaru. In coastal lowland to near montane scrubland and forest margins. Sealevel to 450 m. Very hardy and will tolerate dry conditions. Good in coastal and exposed conditions. Makes an excellent hedging plant.

OMPHALODES CAPPADOCICA.

Ht. 10 x 40 cm.

OM10.

POT 2.5.

Creeping-forget-me-not, is a bushy, evergreen, tufted perennial spreading by creeping rhizomes . It is native to Turkey. Slightly hairy, heart-shaped, lanceolate leaves form a basal foliage clump from which rise flowering stalks in spring topped by loose terminal racemes of forget-me-not-like flowers which are blue to purple-blue with white eyes. Flowers have veining that radiates outward from the center giving a star-like appearance. Mass in shaded border areas. Ground cover for moist shady locations. Rock gardens. Edging. Woodland gardens. Containers. Easily grown in fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Tolerates dry shade and drought. Hardy.

PACHYSTEGIA INSIGNIS..

Ht 50 x 100 cm.

PA15.

POT 2.5.

Robust spreading shrub. The stout branches are covered with greyish hairs. The large, leathery oblong leaves are crowded towards the ends of the branches, green and shiny on top, the undersurface is clad with a thick white tomentum. In spring it has large white daisy-like flowers with yellow centres. It ocurs naturally in Southern Marlborough to north Canterbury, often seen clinging to the coastal cliffs. Sealevel to 1200m. It needs well drained soil and plenty of sunlight, never crowd out with other plants.

PHOENIX DACTYLIFERA.

Ht 10 x 3 mt.

PHO10.

POT 2.5.

Large Palm cultivated for its edible sweet fruit. Widely cultivated across northern Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, and is naturalized in many tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Date trees reach up to 30 metres, growing singly or forming a clump with several stems from a single root system. Slow-growing, they can reach over 100 years of age when maintained properly. Date fruits are oval-cylindrical. Dates have been cultivated in the Middle East and the Indus Valley for thousands of years. There is archaeological evidence of date cultivation in Arabia from the 6th millennium BCE. Dates are emblematic of oasis agriculture and highly symbolic in Muslim, Christian, and Jewish religions. They need a hot climate to fruit successfully.

PHORMIUM 'MAJESTIC RAGE'.

Ht 1.5 x 1 mt.

PHO62.

PB 8.

Wharariki. Large perennial with rich purple long leathery erect sword like leaves with drooping tips, arranged in fans. A triumphant flax. Graceful weeping habit, the colour never fades. Tall stems of green tinged orange flowers in spring, loved by the Tuis for their abundant nectar. These are followed by pendulous twisted seed capsules. Very tolerant of many soils and conditions. Chose good fertile soil though to maintain the best colour. The colourful foliage looks great against green and sliver foliage.

PHORMIUM 'RAINBOW MAIDEN'.

Ht 1 x 1 mt.

PHO68.

PB 6.5.

Wharariki. Medium perennial with rich rosy salmon pink bronze-margined leathery leaves. Older leaves develop a spreading drooping habit. Tall stems up to 2 metres tall produce green tinged orange or yellow flowers in spring, loved by the Tuis for their abundant nectar. These are followed by pendulous twisted seed capsules. Very tolerant of many soils and conditions. Chose good fertile soil though to maintain the best colour. The colourful foliage looks great against green and silver foliage.

PIMELEA OREOPHILA.

Ht 40 x 50 cm.

PIM12.

POT 2.5.

Low-growing spreading shrub, hairy branches with narrow pointed hairy grey leaves. White flowers in spring then red or orange fruit. Found in the wetter southern South Island of New Zealand. Grows in montane to alpine, in open forest near the treeline, in tall and short tussock grassland associated with a wide range of other small grasses, forbs, dwarf shrubs and some medium height shrubs. Usually above the treeline but also at lower levels (500 m or less) in places where frosts are severe in valley floors and where forest has been removed by fire.

PSEUDOCYDONIA SINENSIS.

Ht 3 x 2 mt.

PS03.

PB 6.5.

Small deciduous tree or large shrub with a dense oval crown. It is perhaps best noted for its attractive form, large fruits and interesting bark. Shiny dark green leaves turn yellow-red in Autumn. Cup-shaped, fragrant pink flowers in spring. Flowers are followed by huge, oval fruits with a sweetly fragrant aroma. Fruits are edible off the tree or may be used in jams and syrups. Flakey, sycamore-like bark exfoliates into an attractive patchwork of gray, green and brown on the fluted mature trunks of this tree. Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates poor soils and some drought, but prefers fertile, well-drained loams with even moisture. Hardy to cold.

PSEUDOWINTERA 'MOULIN ROUGE'.

Ht 2 x 2 mt.

PS82.

POT 2.5.

Distinctive shrub with dark coloured bark. The broad rounded leaves, are usually yellow-green and blotched with red on the dull upper surface. Cold and sun both increase how red the leaves will go. It is a secondary level plant in the forest's development, the strong peppery taste of the leaves protect it from browsing animals. Small yellow-green flowers are followed by dark red fruit. Occurs through most of New Zealand in lowland to high montane forests, to 1200m. Hardy, sun or shade.

PSEUDOWINTERA C. 'WINTER FIRE'.

Ht 2 x 2 mt.

PS85.

POT 2.5.

Distinctive shrub with dark coloured bark. The broad rounded leaves, are usually yellow-green and blotched with red on the dull upper surface. Cold and sun both increase how red the leaves will go. It is a secondary level plant in the forest's development, the strong peppery taste of the leaves protect it from browsing animals.Small yellow-green flowers are followed by dark red fruit. Occurs through most of New Zealand in lowland to high montane forests, to 1200m. This superior form was selected by Nelson nurseryman, Cam Simpson from plants growing in the Ellis Basin of Mt Arthur, North-western Nelson. Hardy, sun or shade.

PULMONARIA 'LEOPARD'.

Ht. 15 x 30 cm.

PU01.

POT 2.5.

Rhizomatous, herbaceous perennial with basal clumps of deep green leaves which are heavily mottled with striking white spots or blotches. Flowering stems rise above the foliage in early to mid spring, funnel-shaped blue bell-like flowers. Flower clusters are often two-toned because flowers emerge pink from pink buds but mature to blue. This plant is native from France to Italy. 'Leopard' was discovered and named by horticulturist, Graham Stuart Thomas. Best grown in groups or massed as a ground cover in shady areas. Best grown in cool, evenly moist but well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Soils must not be allowed to dry out.

PULMONARIA 'MAJESTE'.

Ht 40 x 60 cm.

PU02.

POT 2.5.

Perennial with basal clumps of large, ovate, silvery-grey leaves with a very narrow green edge. Drooping clusters of bluish-pink, funnel-shaped flowers bloom on short stalks just above the foliage in spring. Common name of lungwort is in reference to the supposed resemblance of the blotched/spotted leaves to a diseased lung. Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Prefers cool, organically rich, humusy soils that are kept consistently moist. Soils must not be allowed to dry out.

RHODODENDRON VIR. 'JAVA LIGHT'.

Ht 1 x 1 mt.

RHO66.

POT 3.5.

These tropical shrubs are semi-epiphytic, perching high in tree tops in the forests of South East Asia. Glossy lush bright green foliage. Upright bushy vigorous habit. Large open trumpet flowers in rounded compact trusses. They are brilliant orange to flame-red. Flowering twice a year, autumn/winter and spring/summer. Prefers a warm semi-shaded site, protected from frost. Removing dead flowers encourages repeat flowering. Great for containers, performs best with restricted root growth.

RHODODENDRON VIREYA 'DAWN CHORUS'.

Ht 1.2 x 1 mt.

RHO57.

POT 3.5.

These tropical shrubs are semi-epiphytic, perching high in tree tops in the forests of South East Asia. Glossy lush mid-green foliage. New growth has a distinctive red flush. Compact and semi-spreading habit. Pink lobed flowers shading to a creamy yellow throat, delicate tonings. Flowering twice a year, autumn/winter and spring/summer. Prefers a warm semi-shaded site, protected from frost. Removing dead flowers encourages repeat flowering. Great for containers, performs best with restricted root growth.

SALVIA 'AZTEC BLUE'.

Ht 30 x 40 cm.

SAL06.

POT 2.5.

Ground cover perennial with intense and vibrant true blue flowers. The foliage offers ornamental value. As young leaves emerge they a delightful plum colour slowly changing to an olive green as they age but always retaining a bronze tinge providing the plant is in full sun. When planted in light shade greener foliage results. As the name suggests, 'Aztec Blue' is a native of Mexico and originates in the countrys province of Sinaloa. A delightful little plant which will grow and spread slowly via underground runners to form an attractive ground cover.

SALVIA CHAMAEDRYOIDES.

Ht 50 x 70 cm.

SAL11.

POT 2.5.

Low growing perennial. Small silvery grey leaves. These contrast nicely with the deep powder-blue flowers which appear in late spring and autumn. Food for bees. This species is native to central Mexico's arid climate zones where it survives heat, cold and summer drought. It is well suited for planting along borders, on banks and slopes. It grows best in full sun, on well-drained soils. Clipping in autumn can help maintain shape and stimulate more flowering in the spring. Avoid cold wet areas.

SARCOCOCCA ORIENTALIS.

Ht 70 x 70 cm.

SAR08.

POT 2.5.

Dense bushy suckering shrub, with attractive dark green glossy leaves on tall arching stems. Small cream flowers produced in winter are fragrant and followed by black berries. Hardy in most soils though prefers a humus rich one. Fantastic for dry shady sites. Will grow in the sun if given enough moisture. Very hardy to cold and frost. Introduced from Jiangxi in Eastern China by Roy Lancaster. Superb evergreen shrub ideal for planting in a sheltered spot near a door or path where the scent can be appreciated in the winter.

SARCOCOCCA var. humilis.

Ht 60 x 80 cm.

SAR06.

POT 1.5.

Densely bushy shrub that can form suckers, with attractive dark green glossy leaves on tall arching stems. Small cream flowers produced in winter are fragrant and followed by black berries. Hardy in most soils though prefers a humus rich one. They are fantastic for dry shady sites. Will grow in the sun if given enough moisture. Very hardy to cold and frost. Superb evergreen shrub ideal for planting near in a sheltered spot near a back door or frequently used path where the scent can be appreciated in the winter.

SCHEFFLERA ARBORICOLA.

Ht 4 x 2 m.

SC10L.

PB 18.

Evergreen shrub growing tall, free-standing, or clinging to the trunks of other trees as an epiphyte. The leaves are palmately compound,and leathery in texture, shiny green glabrous on the upper surface and somewhat lighter and matte on the underside. Young plants have smaller leaves and fewer leaflets. The flowers are produced in midsummer to early autumn. The flowers are hermaphroditic, having a colour ranging from yellow to green. The oval fruits ripen from late summer to early winter and are orange to red-violet at maturity. Avoid cold frosty sites. Best in a sheltered site in semi shade. Tolerates dry.

SKIMMIA JAPONICA.

Ht 1 x 1 mt.

SK05.

PB 5.

A stiff dense mound forming shrub. Obovate dark green broad leaves. Large clusters of abundant small sweetly scented white flowers in spring and summer. These are followed by bright red round berries which show above and through the foliage. These plants could be male, female and hermaphrodite, they will produce more berries if planted in a group. They grow best in partial shade on well drained but good soil, with adequate moisture. Not as many flowers result if planted in heavy shade. Hardy to cold.

SPIRAEA 'GOLD FLAME'.

Ht 1 x 1 mt.

SP20.

POT 3.5.

Dense, upright, mounded, deciduous shrub. Leaves are oval and sharply-toothed. Tiny rose pink flowers in flat-topped clusters cover the foliage from late spring to mid-summer, with sparse and intermittent repeat bloom sometimes occurring. Flowers are attractive to butterflies. Leaves emerge bronze-red in spring, mature to yellow-green by summer and finally acquire interesting yellow-orange-copper hues in autumn. Remove faded flower clusters as practicable to encourage additional bloom. Flowers on new wood, so prune in late winter to early spring if needed. Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates light shade. Tolerates a wide range of soils. Prefers rich, moist loams.

STACHYS BYZANTINA.

Ht 40 x 60 cm.

STA05.

PB 5.

Low growing perennial with soft, velvety, silver leaves which form a rapidly spreading mat. Leaves are evergreen in warm climates. Erect, small-leaved flowering stems with terminal spikes of insignificant, tiny, purplish-pink flowers appear in summer rising above the foliage. Can remove the flowering stems to enhance the ground cover effect. Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Plants are generally drought tolerant. Avoid overwatering. Spreads by creeping stems that root as they go along the ground and can be mildly aggressive in rich soils.

STIPA GIGANTEA.

Ht 60 x 70 cm.

STI10.

PB 6.5.

Robust tufted evergreen grass of arching deep green linear foliage. The large panicles of oat-like, long-awned purplish flowers emerge in summer, these ripen to gold. When mature, these splay apart to make a wide fountain shape that almost hides the plant. The seed-heads dry out naturally on the plant and persist into early winter, where they make a good architectural feature, especially when outlined in frost. It is found growing wild in Spain and Portugal. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it their Award of Garden Merit (AGM). Hardy.

STOKESIA 'KLAUS JELITTO'.

Ht 40 x 40 cm.

STO10.

POT 2.5.

Evergreen perennial with a basal rosette of medium green leaves. Fluffy, cornflower-like, powder blue flowers each with notched rays surrounding a pincushion center of feathery disk florets. Flowers bloom from early to mid-summer top of erect, leafy stems. Leaves are evergreen in warm winter climates. Occurs naturally in wetlands, bottomlands, wet pinewoods, savannas and ditches mostly along the coastal plain from North Carolina to Florida to Louisiana. Cultivar name honors German plantsman Klaus R. Jelitto who founded Jelitto Perennial Seeds. Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates filtered sunlight, but prefers full sun.

TAGETES LEMONII.

Ht 1 x 1 mt.

TAG10.

PB 5.

A bushy evergreen shrub. A strong fragrance from the finely divided foliage is released when rubbed or brushed against. Orange-yellow flowers in fall-winter with off bloom in other seasons - flowering is triggered by short day length so overcast weather can extend flowering in spring. Plant in sun or part shade in a well-drained soil. Drought tolerant in coastal gardens but looks best with a little irrigation - too much water or too little light produces leggy plants that don't bloom well. Frost tender to a hard frost but recovers quickly. It can be cut back severely or even hedged but this may reduce or delay flowering. Comes from southern Arizona south into northern Mexico where it grows in canyons.

TULBAGHIA 'TRICOLOUR'.

Ht 20 x 20 cm.

TU15.

POT 1.5.

Fast-growing, bulbous plant which forms a clump. The leaves are long, narrow, strap-like, green and white striped, slightly fleshy and smell of garlic when bruised. The pinkish-mauve tubular flowers, clustered into umbels of up to 20 flowers, are held above the leaves on a tall flower stalk, and appear over a long period in summer. Useful for difficult hot corners of the garden as it will tolerate prolonged drought, although it flourishes with regular watering. Prefers a sunny site. Avoid heavy wet soils, very hardy. This drought-resistant plant is from South Africa and Zimbabwe.

TULBAGHIA VIOLACEA.

Ht 30 x 10 cm.

TU10.

POT 2.5.

Fast-growing, bulbous plant which forms a clump. The leaves are long, narrow, strap-like, slightly fleshy and smell of garlic when bruised. The pinkish-mauve tubular flowers, clustered into umbels of up to 20 flowers, are held above the leaves on a tall flower stalk, and appear over a long period in summer. Useful for difficult hot corners of the garden as it will tolerate prolonged drought, although it flourishes with regular watering. Prefers a sunny site. Avoid heavy wet soils, very hardy. This drought-resistant plant is from South Africa and Zimbabwe.

ZEPHYRANTHES CANDIDA.

Ht 15 x 20 cm.

ZE10.

POT 1.5.

Bulbous perennial with crocus-like white flowers, sometimes blushed with pink, above a tuft of grass-like, green leaves. Blooms appears in late summer to early autumn. Winter hardy, best in moist, organically rich, well-drained soils in full sun. Best performance is in full sun. After flowering, plants go dormant. Plants also grow well in pots or containers which should also be overwintered in cool, frost-free locations with just enough moisture to keep the soils from totally drying out. Avoid heavy frost. Native to the Rio de la Plata region of South America.

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