The Boxwood Species and its Large Family

The Boxwood Species, (Buxus Sempervirens) happens to be one of the most popular shrub types in most landscape projects today. With almost 200 varieties of Boxwood out there, it is an evergreen shrub that is native in many different regions. A good majority of the Boxwood family grows slow and short and is often used for borders or edging around houses and in landscape designs, while some others … [Read more...]

Coneflower – Plant Profile

Echinacea "Coneflower" in classic purple and ornamental red. Hardiness Zones: Zones 3 - 9Common Varieties: Purpurea ("Purple Coneflower" - not always purple!), tennesseensis ("Tennessee Coneflower"), Colors: Mostly light, warm purple, but also hot pink, red, orange, yellow, white, and even green and dark purple, or multicolored. Echinacea is the genus name for a whole gaggle of flowers … [Read more...]

Astilbe – Plant Profile

A pink variety of Astilbe, a shade tolerant blooming perennial hardy to New York state. Other Names: False Goat's Beard, False SpireaCommon Varieties: Astilbe 'Fanal' (dark red flowers); 'Visions' (red pink), 'Bridal Veil' (white).Hardiness Zones: Typically zones 4-8, but some varieties are hardy in zones 3-9. If you've ever researched shade gardens, you've probably come across astilbe! … [Read more...]

Hardy Hibiscus – Plant Profile

What does the word Hibiscus bring to mind for you? Waves, sand, surf? You probably think of somewhere warm and tropical, like Hawaii. Fun fact: you can bring some of those tropical vibes into your own yard, because here in New York, we have Hardy Hibiscus. Hardy Hibiscus grow on upright stems that can reach up to 6' in height. In late July and August, they bloom massive flowers that are … [Read more...]

Saucer Magnolia – Plant Profile

  Saucer Magnolia Or Magnolia x soulangeana Description: The Saucer Magnolia plant (or Magnolia x soulangeana) grows as a multi-stemmed large shrub or small flowering tree. The flowers bloom on the tree in early spring and then the leaves expand shortly afterward. The flowers are white flushed with purple and start to bloom around March. Saucer Magnolia blooms through the summer months … [Read more...]

Stone Crop – Plant Profile

Other Names: Succulents, Sedum "Stone Crop" refers to a family of perennial, flowering plants in the succulent family. You might have also heard them called sedum. Both of these are broad terms for plants that come in literally all shapes, colors, and sizes. What all these plants have in common, however, is their hardiness. While they're popular as potted plants, stone crop is actually a … [Read more...]

Arborvitae: Why We Love Them

You’ll find Arborvitae virtually everywhere in the U.S. Also known as Cedar or Thuja, this evergreen can be spotted in hedges in front yards, store fronts, parks and more. Why is it so popular? Well, here are a few of our favorite things about Arborvitae. Sound Cancelling: Live near 87 or another busy road? Have a noisy neighbor? Arborvitae can help. Arborvitae has thick, dense foliage, so … [Read more...]

Yarrow – Plant Profile

Achillea Millefolium Common Names: Yarrow, Milefoil Common Varieties: “Paprika” (red), “Appleblossom” (pink), “Coronation Gold” (golden yellow), “Gypsy White” (white), “Peachy Peach Sensation” (peach). Description: Yarrow is a flowering perennial featuring tight, flat clusters of bright flowers atop long green stems. The flowers themselves range in color from white to deep red, with … [Read more...]

Lilac – Plant Profile

Syringa vulgaris Common Varieties: "Miss Kim", "Lincoln", "Mme. Lemoine", "Miss Canada", Dwarf Korean, Persian Lilac Description: Lilacs are a type of deciduous, flowering plant that's generally a shrub, but some varieties can become trees. They're famous for their fragrant clusters of flowers that appear in late May. Lilac is a multi-stem, woody shrub covered in broad, bright green … [Read more...]

Forsythia – Plant Profile

Forsythia suspensa Other Names: "Golden Bell" If you live in upstate New York, you’ve probably seen forsythia before. Those gorgeous yellow blooms are the first sign of spring. They’re also one of the most popular choices for hedges and foundation plantings. Description: Forsythia is a deciduous shrub that, left untouched, can grow to 8' in height. It's stems start green, but with … [Read more...]