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
You're a brave gardener, Phillip. I'm always afraid to move plants, especially when they're relatively large. I hope the Cascara - and the Acer and button bush - prosper.
ReplyDeleteOh, that was a job! I would easily talk myself out of moving something that large, lol. It is definitely worth it tho, can't wait to see them take off.
ReplyDeleteIt's odd seeing Photinia grown to a tree size rather than it's common use of a hedge.
ReplyDeleteDid you leave the Photinia in place for the time being?
It's hard to get motivated to move a plant when you know you'll have to shuffle 2-3 others too. Musical chairs indeed, unavoidable as the garden matures it tells you what it needs. Everything will be doing and looking better now.
Chavli
The photinias (there was a line of them along the back fence) were here when we moved in. I don't think they had ever been pruned and when you don't do that, they become trees. I'm leaving it for the time being, mainly because I'm not sure exactly how to cut it down as most of it leans over to the neighbor's side. A professional will probably be needed. On the other hand, I've contemplated planting something that would grow up it. I do have a Lady Banks rose that needs to be relocated...
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