Amazing perennial that is a great release from the former Heronswood Nursery. A tall growing evergreen fairy bells that emerges in spring with new growth dyed distinctly black- stems and leaves. They eventually turn to a medium green in summer. White the new growth unfurls its bearing small green/white bell shaped flowers. The effect is sublime. To 4′ tall ( or taller) it rises up to a finely divided scape of leaves in an arching fan construction. Excellent perennial that may be cut back to the ground in late winter to showcase the dramatic new growth. Woodland conditions, rich, humusy soil with regular summer water. Great in containers. Resistant to slugs and snails. I have not tried this perennial in deer land so I’m not sure how it would fare. Please let us know if you have experience with that.
Family: Colchicaceae
Disporum longistylum ‘Green Giant’
Wonderful large evergreen perennial for shade with an imposing presence. Rising up to 7′ tall the divided scape of leaves and light green bell shaped flowers gives the impression of bamboo when mature. Evergreen foliage remains surprisingly good looking through the winter. New growth shoots up as thick fast growing deep green canes before the leaves and flowers unfurl in late spring. Good resistance to slug and snails. Long lived perennial for woodland conditions. Thrives in large containers. Regular summer water in rich, humusy soil. Add a yearly application of compost to increase luster and vigor. Forms slowly increasing clumps.
Disporum sessile ‘Variegatum’
Shade plays by its own rules and to be honest flowers are often pretty modest. Therefore we rely on foliage to brighten dark corners and add texture and contrast. This elegant perennial is 18″ tall and arching stems have large opposite leaves delicately feathered in white. In spring small white bells droop gracefully along the stem. Deep, rich, hummus rich woodland soils that retain moisture. Regular summer water. Winter deciduous.