Chilean Fire Bush - a hidden jewel in our garden
It is heartbreaking that this beauty is hidden in our garden but at least the hummingbirds have found it. Hidden because it is planted behind a 7 feet tall rose. I planted it there because I was under the impression that it would become a tree. It can indeed become a tree and there is one growing about a mile from our house that is around 20 feet tall. In our garden, it is taking its sweet time and is only 4 feet tall after being planted seven years ago (2017). It did not begin to bloom until its fifth year and this is the first year flowering has been so profuse. Whenever I think about this plant, I always remember what the Gosslers said in their book "The Gossler Guide to the Best Hardy Shrubs". I quote it here: "Since this plant comes from southern Chile, we begin with a word of warning: it will not grow anywhere in the United States outside western Washington, Oregon and northern California. People wanting to grow E. coccineum in the eastern part of the country will
The Rhododendron looks wonderful there. I hope you can find someone to take the laurel.
ReplyDeleteOh the things we do in our gardens. The Rhodie will be loverly in this spot.
ReplyDeleteI like the way you are using your off fall for fencing.
Ha! I know exactly the feeling of "guilt pangs stabbing at my heart"! I mean, here's a lovely, healthy plant, doing exactly what it was meant to do for us, no fuss or drama. And for that we pull it out unceremoniously. At least you home it before it goes in the waste bin.
ReplyDeleteThat new Rhodi is a beauty. I hope it has fragrance as promised.
Chavli
Love that Loderi also. Enjoying your posts. Can I ask where do you get your chip mulch? I am looking for a good source of wood chips to use as mulch as well. Thx!
ReplyDeleteI usually get a load from Chip Drop in the fall. It comes from local foresters and is free - https://getchipdrop.com/ You get a huge load and just have to wait until it is available in your area but they have been fast in our area. In the spring, I use small bark nuggest from Yard n Garden Land to cover since it gives a more attractive look. I do think that the untreated forestry chips do the most to improve your soil.
DeleteThe new rhododendron looks beautiful there. I have had the same feelings, and yes in a rush for greenery in a completely empty back garden made several strange choices. I look forward to seeing it bloom!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on finally acquiring a long-sought plant. You may be too excited to sleep (that’s what happens to me).
ReplyDeleteThe laurel was lush, though. Do they seed around?
Love your dead hedge!
ReplyDeleteI need to tweak that! It needs some straightening and tidying.
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