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Ten July Favorites

Chaste Tree ( Vitex ) One of the highlights of the year is when the Chaste Tree blooms. It pains me that I don't know the name of it, but I suspect it is 'Shoal Creek' . I failed to record it, and I also do not remember where it came from. We sell a newer variety at Yard N' Garden called 'Flip Side ', which has stunning leaves of olive-green with a purple reverse.  A friend has the pale pink variety, but I don't think it is as pretty as the blue-colored flowers. This little tree is constantly covered with bees.  Catalpa bignoinoides   'Aurea' A large limb died over the winter, leaving a gaping hole. However, it is looking better after Michael raised some of the remaining limbs. It has bloomed profusely this year. Like the vitex, our best view of it is from the windows, where you get an elevated view. Heliopsis helianthoides 'Fire Twister' This perennial is doing much better after I moved it to a better location. I saw it last week in an ope...
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July Hydrangeas



Despite several hot periods (and another one starting Thursday, lovely), it has been a good year for hydrangeas. We have them in various places throughout the garden but the largest concentration is on the terraced area underneath the dogwood tree.


Taking a closer look...

Four hydrangeas are visible in this photo - 'Pistachio' in front left and 'Twist-n-Shout' on the right. 'Bloomstruck' is on the back left and an unknown variety at the back right.

A closer look at 'Pistachio'. Lime green and pink - an odd combination for sure but it seems to work.

'Pistachio' alongside Persicaria 'Golden Arrow'
and 'Eldorado' grass in a pot behind them.



'Annabelle' is really nice this year with more blooms than ever and sturdy, upright stems (it still needs support).

A new arborescens called 'Invincibelle Ruby'. I didn't expect to like this one but it has surprised me. 

'Fire Island' is really, really pink.

'Tuff Stuff' is being shaded by a Sourwood tree in a pot.

'Fairytrail Bride' in a pot. The jury is still out on this one. I think it needs more sun...

I hate it when I lose the name of a plant. This hydrangea is an unknown, probably purchased on the Home Depot sale rack.

A view from the top with 'Nikko Blue' on the left
and 'Annabelle' again on the right. 

'Little Fresco', a panicle hydrangea advertised as very small. We shall see. From the looks of stalks that are shooting skyward, my guess is "no".

'Little Quickfire', a panicle hydrangea, in a large pot.


Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy
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Comments

  1. Kris PetersonJuly 31, 2024 at 8:43 AM

    Oh, Phillip. Here I thought I'd put the idea of growing hydrangeas far behind me and now I once again find myself enamored with them. As if the Fling tour hadn't already stirred my interest, you've gone and reinforced that with this post.

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    1. Phillip OliverJuly 31, 2024 at 9:50 PM

      Thanks Kris! I'm guessing hydrangeas are difficult to grow in CA?

      Delete
  2. Ardith FergusonJuly 31, 2024 at 7:21 PM

    Phillip, these are beautiful photos. I counted at least 13 different hydrangeas. How did you decide on which ones to start with when you were beginning your garden design?

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    Replies
    1. Phillip OliverJuly 31, 2024 at 9:49 PM

      Ardith, most are spur of the moment purchases. I'm more of "buy now, decide where its going later" gardener.

      Delete
  3. tz_gardenAugust 12, 2024 at 8:56 AM

    Oh wow, beautiful. I love the picture with the pathway, so enticing!

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