Turf

TurfBuchloe Dactyloides ‘609’ – Buffalo Grass SodAka: Buchloe Dactyloides 'Sharp's Improved'Common Name: Buffalo GrassZone: 3 to 9Plant Type: TurfgrassFamily: PoaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 0.25 to 0.5 feetSpread: to 0.5 feetBloom Time: Non-flowering Bloom DataBloom Color: GreenSun: Full sunWater: Dry to mediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates heat, droughtand a wide range of soils. Adapts to alkaline soils. Avoid frequent watering. When grown as aturfgrass, mow as needed to a height of 2-3" tall. Also may be naturalized without mowing as a4-6" tall grass. 'Sharp's Improved' is a seeded variety. May also be established by sod or plugs.- 1 -

Cynodon Dactylon ‘Tifway’ – Bermuda Sod ‘Tifway’Aka: Cynodon Dactylon 'Sundevil'Common Name: Bermuda grassZone: 6 to 10Plant Type: TurfgrassFamily: PoaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: to 0.25 feetSpread: 0.25 to 0.5 feetBloom Time: Non-flowering Bloom DataBloom Color: GreenSun: Full sunWater: Dry to mediumMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates heat, droughtand a wide range of soils. When grown as a turfgrass, mow regularly to a height of 3/4" to 1.5"tall, fertilize during the growing season (May to August) and use soil barriers to prevent spreadinto adjacent areas. Sometimes overseeded with rye. Bermuda grass has winter hardinessproblems in the Midwest Transition Area, however, and is not recommended as a turfgrass forSt. Louis. Some winter kill is to be expected when winter temperatures dip below 10 degrees F.'Sundevil' is a seeded variety which is considered even less winter hardy than the species. Needsregular dethatching.- 3 -

GroundcoverEquisetum Scirpoides – Dwarf HorsetailAka: Winter Scouring Rush / Equisetum hyemaleCommon Name: winter scouring rushZone: 4 to 9Plant Type: Rush or SedgeFamily: EquisetaceaeNative Range: Eurasia, North AmericaHeight: 2 to 4 feetSpread: 1 to 6 feetBloom Time: Non-floweringBloom Color: Non-floweringSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Best grown in medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Tolerates an extremely wide rangeof soils, however. Will grow in up to 4” of standing water. Spreads to form large colonies in thewild. Homeowners are often more interested in learning how to eradicate this plant from thelandscape than how to grow it. It is a very aggressive plant which, if not preemptively restrained,- 5 -

will spread aggressively by branched, creeping rhizomes. Once established, it can be extremelydifficult to remove by digging because its rhizomes spread wide and deep, and any small sectionof rhizome left behind can sprout a new plant. Consider using soil barriers to restrict growth. Inwater gardens or tub gardens, plant in pots at water bottom to contain growth (both height andspread).Noteworthy Characteristics:Scouring rush (also commonly called rough horsetail) is a non-flowering, rush-like, rhizomatous,evergreen perennial which typically grows 3-5’ tall and is native to large portions of Eurasia,Canada and the U.S., including Missouri. It typically occurs in wet woods, moist hillsides andperipheries of water bodies (lakes, rivers, ponds). This species features rigid, rough, hollow,vertically-ridged, jointed-and-segmented, bamboo-like, dark green stems (to 1/2” diameter at thebase) which rise up from the plant rhizomes. Each stem node (joint) is effectively marked by awhorl of tiny, stem-clasping, scale-like leaves which are fused into an ash-gray sheath (1/4”long) ending in a fringe of teeth. Teeth are usually shed during the growing season. Each sheathis set off and accentuated, both above and below, by thin, stem-ringing, black bands.Photosynthesis is basically carried on by the stems of this plant. Vegetative and fertile stems arealike in this species, with some vegetative stems bearing, at the stem tips, pine cone-like fruitingheads (to 1” long) which contain numerous spores. The evergreen stems are particularlynoticeable in winter and can provide significant interest to the landscape. Stems have a highsilica content and were used by early Americans for polishing pots and pans, hence the commonname of scouring rush. Equisetum is not a rush however. Nor is it a fern. Equisetum is the singlesurviving genus of a class of primitive vascular plants that dates back to the mid-Devonianperiod (350 + million years ago). Today, the equisetums are categorized as fern allies in largepart because they, like the ferns, are non-flowering, seedless plants which reproduce by spores.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Very aggressive spreader.Uses:Water gardens. Japanese gardens. Bog gardens. Stream or pond peripheries. Good plant forcovering a wet low spot where nothing else will grow. Interesting plant for large patiocontainers. Provides strong vertical accent to any planting.Back to plant list- 6 -

Hosta ‘Francee’ – Francee HostaAka: Hosta 'Francee'Common Name: HostaZone: 3 to 9Plant Type: Herbaceous perennialFamily: LiliaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 1 to 2 feetSpread: 1 to 3 feetBloom Time: June - AugustBloom Color: Pale lavenderSun: Part shade to full shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade.Tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions. Performs best in rich, moist, organic soils. Plantsneed consistent moisture during the growing season. Water is best applied directly to the soilbeneath the leaves. Divide plants as needed in spring or autumn. Division is usually easiest inearly spring before the leaves unfurl.- 7 -

Noteworthy Characteristics:‘Francee’ is generally considered to be one of the best of the white-margined hostas. It is a sportof H. 'Fortunei Albomarginata'. It typically matures in a dense, arching mound to 21" tall and to36" wide. Heart-shaped, dark green leaves (to 8" long) have narrow white margins. Foliage holdsgood color throughout the growing season. Funnel-shaped, pale lavender flowers in denseracemes appear in late summer atop leafy green scapes rising above the foliage mound to 30”tall. M. Klopping & AHS 1986.Problems:Slugs and snails are attracted to the foliage, chewing jagged holes in the leaves, and if leftunchecked, can cause serious damage over a fairly short period of time. Leaf spots and crown rotare less frequent problems. Otherwise, hostas are virtually pest-free and are considered ideallow-maintenance garden perennials. Leaves, particularly of exposed plants, can be severelydamaged by hail storms.Uses:Hostas are a mainstay of shade gardens. This white-margined Hosta makes an interesting gardenspecimen. It is also very effective in groups or massed as a ground cover. It can be mixed withother perennials in shady borders, shade gardens or woodland gardens.Back to plant list- 8 -

Iris Ensata – Japanese IrisAka: Japanese Water Iris / Iris EnsataCommon Name: Japanese water irisZone: 4 to 9Plant Type: Herbaceous perennialFamily: IridaceaeNative Range: Japan, northern China, eastern RussiaHeight: 2 to 4 feetSpread: 1.5 to 2 feetBloom Time: June - July Bloom DataBloom Color: Blue, lavender, violet-red, pink, whiteSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Loves acidic, organicallyrich, saturated, moisture-retentive soils. During the growing season, it thrives in standing water(up to 6” deep). However in winter, it is intolerant of both standing water and boggy soils whererhizomes may rot. In order to meet these somewhat unusual seasonal cultural requirements,plants may be grown in pots that are sunk half way in water during the growing season but thenremoved to dryer ground for fall and winter. Japanese iris grows surprisingly well in gardensoils, albeit less vigorously, as long as it receives consistent moisture. Plant rhizomesapproximately 2” deep in fall or spring.- 9 -

Noteworthy Characteristics:Japanese iris or Japanese water iris is a rhizomatous beardless perennial iris that grows in slowlyexpanding clumps to 2-4’ tall. Sword-shaped, linear green leaves (to 24” long) have prominentmidribs. Flowers (typically 3-6” across) have a distinctively flattened appearance. Cultivarscome in single, double and peony flowered forms in a wide range of colors including shades ofblue, lavender, violet-red, pink and white. Blooms early to mid summer (later than both beardedand Siberian iris). Synonymous with I. kaempferi.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Wet conditions in winter may cause root rots. Watch forthrips.Uses:Moist borders. Water gardens. Japanese gardens. Margins of pools or streams.Back to plant list- 10 -

Juniperus Conferta – Blue Pacific JuniperAka: Shore JuniperCommon Name: shore juniperZone: 6 to 9Plant Type: Needled evergreenFamily: CupressaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 0.5 to 1 footSpread: 4 to 6 feetBloom Time: Non-floweringBloom Color: Non-floweringSun: Full sunWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Adapts to a wide range ofsoils, but prefers a dryish, sandy soil. Tolerates hot, dry growing conditions, somewhat poor soilsand many city air pollutants. Intolerant of wet soils.Noteworthy Characteristics:Juniperus conferta, commonly called shore juniper, is a decumbent evergreen shrub that is nativeto certain sandy coastal areas of Japan and Sakhalin Island (Russia). It is a dense, low-spreadingplant that grows 10-18” tall and spreads by creeping, branched stems over time to 6-8’ wide.‘Blue Pacific’ is a trailing, lower growing cultivar that typically grows to at most 12” tall. Incomparison to J. conferta (see C253 herein), ‘Blue Pacific’ is noted for having (1) better bluefoliage color, (2) better ground cover form, (3) denser foliage along the branches and (4) better- 11 -

esistance to winter injury. Aromatic, awl-shaped, spiny-pointed, blue-green needles (to 5/8”long) appear in groups of three. Fleshy, blackish, berry-like seed cones acquire a silvery bloom atmaturity.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Junipers are generally susceptible to blights (dieback ofstem tips), particularly in unusually rainy/wet springs. Phomopsis twig blight is of particularconcern. Cedar-apple and related rust diseases spend part of their life cycle on junipers. Root rotmay occur, particularly in wet, poorly drained soils. Occasional insect pests include aphids,bagworms, twig borers, webworms and scale. Watch for spider mites. Foliage on mature plantswill sometimes die back in the center. Less susceptible to winter injury than the species.Uses:A versatile, sprawling ground cover that tolerates hot, dry locations in full sun. Rock gardens.Foundations. Slopes. Mass plantings. Cascade over retaining walls. Particularly effective insandy locations along coasts or dunes.Back to plant list- 12 -

Sedum Spectabile – ‘Autumn Fire’Aka: Autumn Fire SedumCommon Name: sedumZone: 3 to 9Plant Type: Herbaceous perennialFamily: CrassulaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 0.5 to 0.75 feetSpread: 0.5 to 1 footBloom Time: August - September Bloom DataBloom Color: Dark ruby redSun: Full sunWater: Dry to mediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Prefers moist soils withgood drainage. Tolerates part shade, heat, drought and poor soils.- 13 -

Pennisetum Alopecuroides ‘Hameln’Aka: Fountain GrassCommon Name: fountain grassZone: 5 to 9Plant Type: Ornamental grassFamily: PoaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 1.5 to 2.5 feetSpread: 1.5 to 2.5 feetBloom Time: August - October Bloom DataBloom Color: Pinkish whiteSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium to wet soil in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. Toleratespart shade, but may not flower in too much shade. Cut foliage to the ground in late winter beforenew shoots appear. Best propagated by division in spring. Although Pennisetum often reseeds, itshould be noted that this cultivar will not come true from seed.- 15 -

Noteworthy Characteristics:This fountain grass features arching, deep green foliage in an upright clump typically growing to24" tall. Leaves are deep green in summer, changing to orange-bronze in fall and eventually tobeige in late fall. Foliage usually remains attractive throughout the winter. Showy, silvery topinkish-white, wheat-like flower spikes arch outward from the clump in late summer like waterspraying from a fountain. Flower spikes turn brownish as the seed forms, and spikes persist untillate fall or early winter before shattering. 'Hameln' is similar to the species, except the flowerspikes of this cultivar are shorter and the plants are more compact.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems.Uses:Mass or group. Excellent specimen for smaller areas. Foliage and attractive flower spikes of thiscompact ornamental grass provide excellent texture, color and contrast to rock gardens, borderfronts or small areas around the home. Also grows well in moist locations such as low spots,water gardens or on the banks of streams or ponds.Back to plant list- 16 -

Phalaris Arundluacea ‘Picta’Aka: Reed Canary GrassWarning: Phalaris arundinaceae is listed as an exotic invasive species to Missouri and theMidwest by the Midwest Invasive Plant Network. The species should not be planted in theMidwest.Common Name: reed canary grassZone: 4 to 9Plant Type: Ornamental grassFamily: PoaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 2 to 4 feetSpread: 2 to 5 feetBloom Time: June - JulyBloom Color: White to pale pinkSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, dry to wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Wide range ofsoil tolerance from wet (will grow in several inches of water) to dry, clay to sand or acidic toalkaline. When grown as a ground cover, 4 plants per square yard will quickly fill in such anarea. Rhizomatous. Propagate by division in spring.Noteworthy Characteristics:A rigorous, variegated, invasive, bamboo-like ornamental grass with upright stems typicallygrowing 2-4' tall (when in flower). Features flat, arching, green and white striped leaf blades- 17 -

(2/3" wide) which grow 6-12" long and panicles of whitish to pale pinkish flowers which bloomwell above the foliage in early summer. Flowers are quite conspicuous but not particularlyshowy. Grass is extremely attractive in spring to early summer, but turns an unattractive brownby late summer. If cut back hard (e.g., 6" from the ground), it will produce fresh, variegatedfoliage. Lacks the winter interest that many other ornamental grasses provide. Sometimescommonly called ribbon grass, reed canary grass or gardener's garters.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Extremely invasive spreader that is difficult to eradicateonce established because any tiny segment of root or rhizome left behind can sprout and spread.Use of soil barriers should be considered at the time of planting to prevent rhizomes fromtraveling into unwanted areas.Uses:Probably not a good candidate for the border because of the aforementioned invasivecharacteristics. Will quickly colonize and serve as a dense, weed-free ground cover in areaswhere invasiveness in not a concern. Effective in boggy areas, in water gardens (submerged inseveral inches of water) or in wet areas along streams or ponds where it also can help stabilizebanks. Also effective in dry locations, including desert gardens, where it is somewhat lessinvasive.Back to plant list- 18 -

Hosta Sieboldiana – ‘Elegans’Aka: Reed Canary Grass / HostaCommon Name: hostaZone: 4 to 9Plant Type: Herbaceous perennialFamily: LiliaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 2 to 3 feetSpread: 3 to 4 feetBloom Time: May - July Bloom DataBloom Color: Mostly white with a lavender tingeSun: Part shade to full shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in part shade to full shade. No specialculture is required. Soil should be kept moist, however, especially in hot, sunny conditions.Noteworthy Characteristics:This is a very large hosta growing to 30" tall and 48" in diameter. Features large (13" x 10"),heart-shaped, thick-textured, heavily corrugated, surface-cupped, blue-green leaves and racemesof funnel-shaped, mostly white flowers with a violet tinge on scapes up to 36". A dependable andversatile perennial requiring little care. Grown primarily for its beautiful foliage which providescolor, contrast and texture to the landscape. Dense foliage crowds out garden weeds. This speciesis a slow grower and will take several years to reach mature shape. May also be listed as HostaSieboldiana var. Elegans.- 19 -

Problems:Although slugs and snails can be serious problems, and leaf spot and crown rot lesser problems,hostas are otherwise virtually disease and pest-free, and are ideal, low-maintenance gardenperennials.Uses:A mainstay of the shade garden. This very large hosta may be best utilized as a specimen or largeclump planting in shaded areas of the woodland garden, perennial border or naturalized area. It isalso effective on a slope where it can help reduce soil erosion.Back to plant list- 20 -

Juncus Effusus – ‘Soft Rush’Aka: Corkscrew RushCommon Name: corkscrew rushZone: 4 to 9Plant Type: Rush or SedgeFamily: JuncaceaeNative Range: CosmopolitanHeight: 1 to 1.5 feetSpread: 1 to 1.5 feetBloom Time: June - AugustBloom Color: Yellowish green to pale brownSun: Full sunWater: WetMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in wet soils, including standing water, in full sun. Tolerates light shade, but best infull sun. Needs ample moisture and grows well in standing water up to about 4” deep. Plants areoften slow to establish, but once established will slowly spread by creeping roots. Plant incontainers in water gardens. Plant elsewhere in containers sunk in mud if control of possibleunwanted spread is desired.Noteworthy Characteristics:The species, known as common rush or soft rush, is a grass-like, rhizomatous perennial thatfeatures cylindrical upright green stems in spreading clumps to 30” tall. It is one of the truerushes. This plant is commonly known as corkscrew rush because it features a tuft of cylindrical,tightly-spiraled, corkscrew-like green stems (to 1/4” thick) which uncoil as they grow and spreadout in all directions (both upward and prostrate). Clumps typically grow to 14-18” tall with a- 21 -

similar spread. Insignificant, tiny, yellowish green to pale brown flowers appear in compactclusters (cymes) at or slightly below the stem tips in summer. Corkscrew stems are often cut forfloral arrangements. To some, spiral-type rushes are unique and interesting foliage plants whosecorkscrew-like foliage provides texture and contrast to gardens. To others, the spiral-type rushesare little more than tangled weeds. De gustibus non est disputandum.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems.Uses:May be grown at the edge of a pond or water garden, in boggy areas, among wet pebbles orrocks or in several inches of standing water. Good water garden accent. Adds a certain amount ofauthenticity to transitional waterside areas. May help control soil erosion on banks. Effective incontainers.Back to plant list- 22 -

Hemerocallis – ‘Stella d’oro’Aka: DaylilyCommon Name: daylilyZone: 3 to 10Plant Type: Herbaceous perennialFamily: LiliaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 0.75 to 1 footSpread: 0.75 to 1 footBloom Time: May - August Bloom DataBloom Color: Yellow with deeper throatsSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Daylilies do well ina wide range of well-drained soils, but prefer a deep, fertile loam. Deadhead spent flowers dailyfor neatness and remove scapes when flowers have completed bloom. Daylilies should bedivided to maintain vigor when the clumps become overcrowded. Tolerant of summer heat andhumidity.Noteworthy Characteristics:This diploid cultivar features profuse 2.75-inch diameter yellow flowers with ruffled edges anddeeper yellow throats. Flower is classified as a miniature. Flowers are borne on naked stems- 23 -

(scapes) above a clump of arching, linear, blade-like leaves. Individual flowers open for one day.This multiple AHS award winner has become perhaps the most popular daylily in cultivation inlarge part because of its compact size, vigorous growth, profuse bloom and extremely longbloom period. (Jablonski 1975.)Problems:No serious problems. Daylilies are extremely adaptable perennials. They are easy to grow, quickto multiply and virtually pest-free.Uses:Provides color and contrast to the perennial border when grown in clumps or when massed overlarger areas. Also appropriate for the rock garden. The fountain-like leaves provide elegantfoliage, color and texture for the garden when the flowers are not in bloom. Daylilies can crowdout weeds and form a verdant ground cover.Back to plant list- 24 -

Carex Morrowii – ‘Variegata’Aka: Japanese grass sedgeCommon Name: Japanese grass sedgeZone: 5 to 9Plant Type: Rush or SedgeFamily: CyperaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 1 to 1.5 feetSpread: 1.5 to 2 feetBloom Time: April - July Bloom DataBloom Color: BrownSun: Part shade to full shadeWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Silver variegated Japanese sedge should be grown in moist, rich loam in partial shade. It willgrow in full shade and even tolerates full sun in cool climates. Propagation is by plant division inthe spring and seeding in the fall. This sedge is also an attractive container plant. It should begiven a mixture of one-half peat moss / one-half fertile soil and kept constantly moist, but welldrained.- 25 -

Noteworthy Characteristics:The semi-evergreen leaves of this clump-forming sedge have green margins with a broad whitestripe down the middle. The arching leaves form a low mound that adds a bright accent to thedark spaces of a shade garden.Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.In hot climates and in full sun, the leaves may bleach to an unattractive yellow.Uses:This sedge is useful as a ground cover especially under trees or as border edgings. It is mosteffective when grown in large clumps or massed plantings. It is also attractive as a specimenplant or ground cover near water gardens.Back to plant list- 26 -

Rudbeckia Speciosa – ‘Viette’s Little Suzy’Aka: Black-Eyed SusanCommon Name: black-eyed SusanZone: 3 to 9Plant Type: Herbaceous perennialFamily: AsteraceaeNative Range: Southeastern United StatesHeight: 2 to 3 feetSpread: 2 to 2.5 feetBloom Time: June - October Bloom DataBloom Color: Orange / yellowSun: Full sunWater: Dry to mediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates hot and humidsummers as well as some light shade. Deadhead to prolong bloom. Divide when clumps becomeovercrowded.Noteworthy Characteristics:This species of coneflower is a Missouri native which occurs in both dry and moist soils in openwoods, glades and thickets. An upright, rhizomatous, clump-forming, free-blooming coneflowerwhich typically grows to 3' tall, often forming colonies in the wild. Features daisy-like flowers(to 2.5" across) with yellow rays and brownish-purple center disks. Prolific bloom productionover a long mid-summer to fall bloom period. Oblong to lanceolate, medium green foliage. Good- 27 -

cut flower. This species is infrequently sold by nurseries because of the excellent varieties andcultivars available there under (e.g., see 'Goldsturm'--I780 and 'Viette's Little Suzy'--P520).Problems:No serious insect or disease problems.Uses:Mass in bold drifts in the perennial border, cottage garden, meadow, native plant garden ornaturalized area. Provides excellent bloom and color for the late summer.Back to plant list- 28 -

ShrubsSpiraea Bumalda – ‘Anthony Waterer’Aka: Anthony WatererCommon Name: Japanese spireaZone: 3 to 8Plant Type: Deciduous shrubFamily: RosaceaeNative Range: Japan, ChinaHeight: 4 to 6 feetSpread: 5 to 7 feetBloom Time: June - July Bloom DataBloom Color: PinkSun: Full sunWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates a wide range of soils.Remove faded flower clusters as practicable (light shearing is an option) to encourage additionalbloom. Flowers on new wood, so prune in late winter to early spring if needed.Noteworthy Characteristics:Japanese spirea is a dense, upright, mounded, deciduous shrub which typically grows 4-6' tallwith a slightly larger spread. Leaves (to 3" long) are oval and sharply toothed. Featuresnumerous tiny pink flowers in flat-topped clusters (corymbs) in late spring to mid-summer.Foliage may turn attractive shades of red and orange in autumn, but this usually does not occuron a regular basis. Attractive to butterflies. Species is uncommonly sold by nurseries because of- 29 -

the availability of numerous cultivars which are considered to be superior landscape plants. Mostcultivars grow smaller (2-4' tall).Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Susceptible to many of the diseases and insects that attackother rose family members, including leaf spot, fire blight, powdery mildew, root rot, aphids, leafroller and scale.Uses:Borders, cottage gardens or informal hedge. Incorporates well into foundation plantings.Back to plant list- 30 -

Ilex Cornuta – ‘Carissa’Aka: Carissa HollyCommon Name: Chinese hollyZone: 7 to 9Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreenFamily: AquifoliaceaeNative Range: China, KoreaHeight: 8 to 15 feetSpread: 8 to 15 feetBloom Time: MayBloom Color: WhiteSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Winter hardy to USDA Zones 7-9. If attempted in the St. Louis area, it should be sited in aprotected location (e.g., south side of a building). Where winter hardy, it should be grown inaverage, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best in locationsprotected from cold winter winds. Part afternoon shade is best in hot summer climates. Avoidpoorly drained soils. Good tolerance for heat and periods of drought. Prune in winter if needed.Plants of this species are dioecious (separate male and female plants). Female plants need a malepollinator in the area in order to bear fruit.Noteworthy Characteristics:Chinese holly is native to China and Korea. It has naturalized from garden plantings in NorthCarolina and Alabama. It is a broadleaf evergreen that typically grows as a shrub to 8-10’ tall,but may be trained as a small tree to as much as 25’ tall. Unusually shaped rectangular leaves (to4” long) have three large spines at the apex. Dull white flowers appear in May. Flowers are- 31 -

fragrant but generally inconspicuous. Pollinated flowers give way to berry-like red drupes (1/3”long) which ripen in fall and persist into winter. Birds are attracted to the fruit.Problems:Potential insect problems include holly leaf miner, spider mites, whitefly and scale. Potentialdisease problems include leaf spot, leaf rot, tar spot and powdery mildew. Plants are alsosusceptible to leaf drop, leaf scorch and chlorosis (yellowing of leaves in high pH soils). Winterhardiness is a significant problem in St. Louis.Uses:This species is infrequently found in commerce, but a number of popular cultivars are commonlysold. Effective as a specimen or in small groups or as a hedge. Foundation plantings. Foliage andfruit provide good color for the winter landscape.Back to plant list- 32 -

Taxus Media – 'Densiformis'Aka: YewCommon Name: yewZone: 4 to 7Plant Type: Needled evergreenFamily: TaxaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 3 to 4 feetSpread: 4 to 6 feetBloom Time: Non-flowering Bloom DataBloom Color: Non-floweringSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils of near neutral pH in full sun to part shade.Tolerates a wide range of soils as long as drainage is good. Also tolerant of full shade andconsiderable pruning. Intolerant of temperature extremes. Prune or shear as desired in earlyspring before new growth appears.Noteworthy Characteristics:This hybrid yew cultivar is a semi-dwarf, dense, spreading, evergreen shrub which typicallygrows in a mound to 3-4' tall but spreads to 5-7' wide. Yews are classified as conifers, but femaleplants (yews are dioecious) produce red, fleshy, single-seeded fruit instead of cones.- 33 -

'Densiformis' is a female cultivar. Lustrous, dark green, thin-needled foliage. The popular Taxusx media hybrid cultivars are crosses between Japanese yews (Taxus cuspidata) and English yews(Taxus baccata). All parts of this plant are poisonous if ingested.Problems:Long-lived and generally considered a low-maintenance shrub with no serious insect or diseaseproblems. Plants may wilt and die if grown in heavy, poorly drained soils. Foliage may brown inwinter (winter burn) from exposure to dry winter winds. Twig dieback may occur in winter or atother times in the year as a result of damage caused by sudden and extreme winter temperaturechanges.Uses:Frequently used as a specimen, small hedge or foundation plant.Back to plant list- 34 -

Euonymus Alatus – ‘Compactus’Aka: Dwarf Burning BushCommon Name: dwarf-winged burning bushZone: 4 to 8Plant Type: Deciduous shrubFamily: CelastraceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 9 to 11 feetSpread: 9 to 11 feetBloom Time: May - June Bloom DataBloom Color: Yellow/greenSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Adaptable shrubwhich tolerates a wide range of soils except for wet, poorly-drained ones. Also toleratesconsiderable shade. Strong, branching growth habit enables plant to tolerates heavy pruning.Noteworthy Characteristics:'Compactus' is a popular burning bush cultivar. It is a deciduous shrub which is not all that"compact" since it typically grows in a mound to 10' tall with a slightly larger spread, though itcan easily be kept shorter by pruning. It features elliptic to obovate, dark green leaves (to 3"long) which turn bright red in fall (sometimes more pinkish in shade). Fall color can bespectacular and gives rise to the common name. Small, yellowish-green flowers appear in Maybut are not showy. Small fruits (1/3" red capsules) appear in fall, but are usually hidden by the- 35 -

foliage. Corky bark ridges on the branches of Euonymus alatus give rise to the additionalcommon name of winged euonymus for the species. However, the corky ridges are absent orvery reduced in size on the stems of 'Compactus'. For a truly compact burning bush, seeEuonymus alatus 'Rudy Haag' (R440) which typically grows from 3-5' tall.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems.Uses:Versatile shrub with outstanding fall color. Specimen, group or mass. Hedge, screen, shrubborder or foundation plant.Back to plant list- 36 -

Buxus Sempiervirens – ‘English Boxwood’Aka: English BoxwoodCommon Name: boxwoodZone: 5 to 8Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreenFamily: BuxaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 2 to 3 feetSpread: 4 to 5 feetBloom Time: April - MayBloom Color: Greenish yellowSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Best grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefersmoist, sandy loams. Tolerant of pruning and shearing. In USDA Zones 5 and 6, this boxwood isbest sited in a sheltered location which protects it from winter winds. Avoid cultivating aroundplants because they have shallow roots. Roots a appreciate a good mulch.Noteworthy Characteristics:This boxwood cultivar is a dense, compact, many-branched, broad, mounded evergreen shrub.Slow annual growth (to 1.5" per year). Typically grown as a 2-3' tall shrub with a larger spread.Apetalous, greenish yellow flowers (separate male and female flowers on the same plant) appearin spring. Flowers are sparse and insignificant, but fragrant. Small, round to obovate, mediumgreen leaves (to 1 1/8" long) with a blue hue.Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.Boxwoods can be somewhat temperamental plants to grow in the St. Louis area where foliagetends to bronze (turn unattractive brownish yellow) in harsh winters, particularly if plants are- 37 -

located in open areas exposed to winter winds. Otherwise requires little special care other thanannual pruning. Some susceptibility to blight and leaf spots. Root rot can be a problem in poorlydrained soils. 'Vardar Valley' shows good resistance to two of the three main insect pests ofboxwood (leaf miner and mites), but is subject to psyllid infestations in certain areas of the U.S.Uses:Best as a hedge or foundation plant. May be massed, grouped or used as a specimen or accent.Formal gardens or shrub borders.Back to plant list- 38 -

Calamagrostis Acutiflore – ‘Karl Foerster’Aka: Karl Foerster Feather Reed GrassCommon Name: feather reed grassZone: 5 to 9Plant Type: Ornamental grassFamily: PoaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 3 to 5 feetSpread: 1.5 to 2.5 feetBloom Time: May - February Bloom DataBloom Color: Pinkish-purpleSun: Full sunWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium to wet soil in full sun. Does well in heavy clay soils, unlikemany of the other ornamental grasses. Prefers moist, rich soils which do not dry out. Blooms inlight shade, and appreciates some light afternoon shade in hot summer climates. Cut clumps tothe ground in late winter just before the new shoots appear. This grass will not self-seed in thegarden because seeds are sterile.Noteworthy Characteristics:'Karl Foerster' is a hybrid (C. arundinacea x C. epigejos) feather reed grass cultivar which isvalued for its early bloom, vertical lines and ability to grow in wet soils. It is a slowly-spreading,- 39 -

clump-forming, cool season ornamental grass which features an erect, slightly arching, slenderclump of narrow, stiff, rich green leaves growing to 3' tall and 2' wide. Leaves produce little fallcolor, eventually turning tan in winter. In June, tightly-vertical flower stalks rise well above thefoliage to 6' tall bearing narrow plumes of feathery, purplish-green flowers which turn golden asthe seeds mature in summer and eventually tan. Clumps generally provide good continuingwinter interest. 2001 Perennial Plant of the Year award.Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.No serious insect or disease problems.Uses:Mass, group or specimen. Excellent vertical accent for borders and for narrow spaces in thelandscape. Also effective in moist low spots or on pond/stream banks.Back to plant list- 40 -

Miscanthus Sinensis – ‘Gracillimus’Aka: Maiden GrassCommon Name: eulaliaZone: 5 to 9Plant Type: Ornamental grassFamily: PoaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 4 to 7 feetSpread: 3 to 6 feetBloom Time: August - February Bloom DataBloom Color: Copper maturing to silverSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerant of a widerange of soils from well-drained sandy soils to the heavy clays present in much of the St. Louisarea. Prefers moist soils. Best in full sun. Less vigorous with decreased flowering and tendencyto flop in too much shade. Tolerant of summer heat and humidity. Clumps slowly expand incircumference by short rhizomes, but retain tight clump shape. Foliage should be left standingthroughout the winter for visual interest and to provide protection for the crowns. Substantialclumps tend to flop (or totally collapse when subjected to heavy winter snows), and will oftenbenefit from some support. Cut foliage to the ground in late winter just before new shootsappear.- 41 -

Noteworthy Characteristics:Maiden grass is noted for its narrow green leaves with a silver midrib which form a substantial,rounded, arching clump of foliage typically growing 4-6' tall (to 8' when in flower). Foliage turnsyellowish after frost, but quickly fades to straw-beige by winter. Tiny reddish-copper flowersappear in tassel-like inflorescences above the foliage in late September, gradually turning intosilvery white plumes as the seeds mature. Blooms later than most Miscanthus cultivars. Flowerplumes persist well into winter providing good winter interest. 'Gracillimus' is an old and verypopular cultivar.Problems:No frequently occurring insect or disease problems. In some areas of the U.S., miscanthusmealybug and miscanthus blight are becoming significant problems. Miscanthus mealybugcauses stunted growth and is difficult to eradicate because it lives inside the stems. Miscanthusblight is a fungal disease which attacks the blades and sheaths. Mature clumps of 'Gracillimus'(3-4 years +) produce substantial foliage which sometimes needs support.Uses:Versatile ornamental grass, but clumps need lots of room. Accent, specimen, grouping, mass orscreen. Borders, meadows, wild gardens, cottage gardens, naturalized areas or pond/water gardenperipheries.Back to plant list- 42 -

Viburnum Plicatum – ‘Mariesii’Aka: Mariesii Doublefile ViburnumCommon Name: doublefile viburnumZone: 5 to 8Plant Type: Deciduous shrubFamily: CaprifoliaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 10 to 12 feetSpread: 12 to 15 feetBloom Time: April - May Bloom DataBloom Color: WhiteSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefersmoist loams, but tolerates a wide range of soils. Do not allow soils to dry out in the heat of thesummer. Prune as needed immediately after flowering. Propagate vegetatively.- 43 -

Noteworthy Characteristics:‘Mariesii’ is a doublefile viburnum noted for its distinctively layered horizontal branching. It is abroad, dense, multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub that typically matures to 10-12’ tall and spreads to15’ wide. Non-fragrant flowers in flat-topped, lacecap-like clusters bloom in profusion along thebranches in April or May. Flower clusters appear in two rows or files, hence the common name.Each flower cluster (4-6” wide) has small non-showy inner fertile flowers with a showy outerring of pure white sterile flowers. Pollinated fertile flowers give way in summer to red berry-likedrupes which eventually mature to black. Fruits are ornamentally attractive and a food source forbirds. Ovate, serrate, dark green leaves (to 5” long) turn reddish purple in fall. ‘Mariesii’ honorsChelsea gardener Charles Maries (1851-1902).Problems:No serious insect or disease problems.Uses:Specimen or groups. Shrub borders, foundations or hedges.Back to plant list- 44 -

Pennisetum Alopecuroides – ‘Moudry’Aka: Moudry Fountain GrassCommon Name: fountain grassZone: 5 to 9Plant Type: Ornamental grassFamily: PoaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 2 to 2.5 feetSpread: 1.5 to 2 feetBloom Time: August - October Bloom DataBloom Color: Blackish brownSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. Toleratespart shade, but may not flower in too much shade. May freely self-seed in optimum growingconditions to the point of being considered very weedy. Seed plumes may be removed beforeseed ripens if this grass is located near beds or lawns where self-seeding would be a problem.'Moudry' does not reliably come true from seed, however, and should be propagated by division.Cut foliage to the ground in late winter before new shoots appear.Noteworthy Characteristics:- 45 -

'Moudry' is a warm season ornamental fountain grass cultivar which typically grows in graceful,spreading clumps to 2-3' tall and as wide. It is most noted for its distinctive dark purple flowerspikes. Features narrow, medium to deep green leaves (to 1/2" wide) in summer, changing togolden yellow in fall and fading to beige in late fall. Foliage usually remains attractivethroughout the winter. Showy, purplish-black, bristly, bottle brush-like flower spikes archoutward from the clump in late summer like water spraying from a fountain (hence the commonname). Flower spikes turn brownish as the seeds form, and spikes usually persist until late fall orearly winter before shattering.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems.Uses:Specimen, group or mass. Foliage and attractive flower spikes of this ornamental grass provideexcellent texture, color and contrast to borders, foundations and open areas. Also grows well inmoist locations such as peripheries of water gardens, ponds or streams.Back to plant list- 46 -

Typha Angustifolla – Narrow-leaved CattailAka: CattailCommon Name: cattailZone: 3 to 10Plant Type: Herbaceous perennialFamily: TyphaceaeNative Range: North America, Europe, northern and central Asia, northern AfricaHeight: 4 to 6 feetSpread: 4 to 6 feetBloom Time: June - JulyBloom Color: Yellow (male); green (female)Sun: Full sun to part shadeWater: WetMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Easily grown in rich loams in full sun to part shade in water to 12” deep. Cattails are aggressivecolonizers that if left unrestrained will crowd out most other marginal plants. Plant in containersor tubs to restrain spread. If planted directly in the muddy shallows of ponds or pools, site plantscarefully because the roots go deep and are hard to eradicate once established. Plants may selfseed.Noteworthy Characteristics:Common cattail is native to marshes, swamps and wetlands in North America, Europe and Asia.It is the common cattail found throughout the State of Missouri. It is a marginal aquatic perennial- 47 -

that spreads by creeping rhizomes to form dense colonies in shallow water. Features narrow,upright, sword-like, linear, mostly basal, green leaves (to 7’ long) and a stiff, unbranched centralflower stalk that typically rises equal to or slightly less than the height of the leaves (usuallyaround 6’ tall but infrequently to as much as 10’). Plants are monoecious, with each flower stalkbeing topped by two sets of minute flowers densely packed into a cylindrical inflorescence.Yellowish male (staminate) flowers are located at the top of the inflorescence and greenishfemale (pistillate) flowers are located underneath. In this species, the staminate and pistillateflowers are not separated by a gap. Flowers bloom in summer. After bloom, the male flowersrapidly disperse, leaving a naked stalk tip. The pollinated female flowers turn brown as the seedsmature, forming the familiar cylindrical, sausage-like, cattail fruiting spike (to 9” long in thisspecies). Foliage turns yellow-brown in autumn. Fruiting spikes usually persist to early winterbefore disintegrating. Cattails are valued for both fresh and dried flower arrangements. Largestands of cattails serve as important nesting areas and cover for wildlife.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Aggressive spreader outside of containers.Uses:Water gardens, ponds.Back to plant list- 48 -

Ilex Cornuta – ‘Needlepoint’Aka: Needlepoint HollyCommon Name: hollyZone: 7 to 9Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreenFamily: AquifoliaceaeNative Range: China, KoreaHeight: 8 to 15 feetSpread: 8 to 15 feetBloom Time: MayBloom Color: WhiteSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Winter hardy to USDA Zones 7-9. If attempted in the St. Louis area, it should be sited in aprotected location (e.g., south side of a building). Where winter hardy, it should be grown inaverage, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best in locationsprotected from cold winter winds. Part afternoon shade is best in hot summer climates. Avoidpoorly drained soils. Good tolerance for heat and periods of drought. Prune in winter if needed.Plants of this species are dioecious (separate male and female plants). Female plants need a malepollinator in the area in order to bear fruit.Noteworthy Characteristics:Chinese holly is native to China and Korea. It has naturalized from garden plantings in NorthCarolina and Alabama. It is a broadleaf evergreen that typically grows as a shrub to 8-10’ tall,but may be trained as a small tree to as much as 25’ tall. Unusually shaped rectangular leaves (to- 49 -

4” long) have three large spines at the apex. Dull white flowers appear in May. Flowers arefragrant but generally inconspicuous. Pollinated flowers give way to berry-like red drupes (1/3”long) which ripen in fall and persist into winter. Birds are attracted to the fruit.Problems:Potential insect problems include holly leaf miner, spider mites, whitefly and scale. Potentialdisease problems include leaf spot, leaf rot, tar spot and powdery mildew. Plants are alsosusceptible to leaf drop, leaf scorch and chlorosis (yellowing of leaves in high pH soils). Winterhardiness is a significant problem in St. Louis.Uses:This species is infrequently found in commerce, but a number of popular cultivars are commonlysold. Effective as a specimen or in small groups or as a hedge. Foundation plantings. Foliage andfruit provide good color for the winter landscape.Back to plant list- 50 -

Ilex Cornuta – ‘Nellie R. Stevens’Aka: Nellie Stevens HollyCommon Name: hollyZone: 6 to 9Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreenFamily: AquifoliaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 15 to 25 feetSpread: 8 to 12 feetBloom Time: AprilBloom Color: Greenish-whiteSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Grow in organically rich, slightly acidic, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to partshade. Prune in winter if needed. Ilex ‘Edward J. Stevens’ and Ilex cornuta males reportedly willserve as good pollinators for this female plant. However, ‘Nellie R. Stevens’ can bear some fruitwithout fertilization from a male pollinator because it is parthenocarpic (from Greek parthenosmeaning virgin and karpos meaning fruit). This plant has better heat tolerance than many of thehollies, and is a good selection for hot southern areas. It is not reliably winter hardy throughoutthe St. Louis area where it should be sited in a protected location.Noteworthy Characteristics:‘Nellie R. Stevens’ is a hybrid between I. aquifolium and I. cornuta. It typically grows as a largebroadleaf evergreen shrub with dense, conical form to 15-25’ tall and 8-12’ wide. It also can betrained to grow as a small tree. Oblong, glossy, dark green leaves (to 4” long) have spinymargins (typically 2-3 spines per side). Small greenish-white flowers appear in spring (April),- 51 -

ut are generally inconspicuous. Flowers give way to often abundant amounts of berry-likebright red fruits (to 1/3” diameter) which ripen in fall and persist into winter.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Potential insect problems include holly leaf miner, spidermites, whitefly and scale. Potential disease problems include leaf spot, leaf rot, tar spot andpowdery mildew.Uses:Hedge, screen, windbreak, barrier or border. Specimen. Small tree.Back to plant list- 52 -

Berberis Thunbergli – ‘Rosy Glow’Aka: Rosy Glow BarberryCommon Name: Japanese barberryZone: 4 to 8Plant Type: Deciduous shrubFamily: BerberidaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 3 to 6 feetSpread: 4 to 7 feetBloom Time: April - May Bloom DataBloom Color: YellowSun: Full sunWater: Dry to mediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates light shade, but needsfull sun to produce best foliage color. Very adaptable shrub that is tolerant of many pollutants inurban areas. Also tolerates some drought, but will not do well in poorly drained, wet soils.Noteworthy Characteristics:This Japanese barberry cultivar is a dense, deciduous shrub which grows 3'-6' tall. First leavesare purple, but new shoots emerge as a rose-pink mottled with bronzish to purplish red splotches.Leaves are of variable sizes (.50" to 1.25" long). Many branched, reddish-brown stems havesharp thorns. Tiny, yellowish flowers appear in late April to early May, but are often hidden bythe foliage and are not considered showy. Bead-like, bright red berries form in fall and often lastthrough the winter. The berries are attractive to birds.- 53 -

Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.No serious problems. Some susceptibility to bacterial leaf spot, anthracnose, root rots, wilt,aphids, barberry webworm and scale.Uses:Japanese barberry forms an excellent barrier or hedge. It is also effective when planted in groupsor as a specimen.Back to plant list- 54 -

Ilex Crenata - ‘Soft Touch’Aka: Japanese HollyCommon Name: Japanese hollyZone: 5 to 8Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreenFamily: AquifoliaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 3 to 4 feetSpread: 3 to 4 feetBloom Time: MayBloom Color: Greenish-whiteSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Tolerant of a widerange of growing conditions, including clay soils and urban pollution. Prefers light, moist, acidicsoils with good drainage. Chlorosis (leaf yellowing) may occur in alkaline soils. Japanese holliesare dioecious (separate male and female plants). 'Geisha' is an all-female cultivar which needs amale pollinator in order to produce fruit. May not be reliably winter hardy throughout USDAZone 5 where it should be grown in a protected location with a winter mulch.Noteworthy Characteristics:'Geisha' is a dwarf, evergreen Japanese holly cultivar which is noted for producing yellow berriesin fall as opposed to the more usual purple to red. It grows somewhat slowly in a rounded mound- 55 -

to 3-4' tall. Features elliptic to obovate, glossy green convex leaves (typically 1/2 to 1 1/4" long).Japanese holly foliage somewhat resembles boxwoods more than hollies. Tiny, greenish-whiteflowers appear along the stems in the leaf axils in late spring. If pollinated, the flowers give wayto yellow, berry-like drupes (1/4" diameter) in fall. Flowers and fruit are inconspicuous.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Spider mites can be troublesome. Nematodes are aproblem in the South.Uses:Small hedge. Foundation plant. Shrub border. Rock garden.Back to plant list- 56 -

Miscanthus Sinensis – ‘Variegatus’Aka: Variegated Japanese Silver GrassCommon Name: eulaliaZone: 5 to 9Plant Type: Ornamental grassFamily: PoaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 5 to 9 feetSpread: 4 to 5 feetBloom Time: July - February Bloom DataBloom Color: Reddish-brownSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Best grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerant ofa wide range of soils from well-drained sandy soils to the heavy clays present in much of the St.Louis area. Prefers moist soils. Best in full sun. Less vigorous with decreased flowering andtendency to flop in too much shade. Tolerant of summer heat and humidity. Clumps slowlyexpand in circumference by short rhizomes, but retain tight clump shape. Foliage should be leftstanding throughout the winter for visual interest and to provide protection for the crowns. Cutfoliage to the ground in late winter just before new shoots appear. 'Variegatus' is a substantialgrass which tends to flop more than most other Miscanthus cultivars, and generally needsstaking. Clumps can easily collapse in winter from the weight of heavy snow.- 57 -

Noteworthy Characteristics:'Variegatus' is a variegated eulalia grass cultivar which typically grows in an arching, roundedclump to 5-6' tall (flower plumes can increase height to as much as 7- 9' tall). Features leafblades variegated with green and white stripes, with white being the predominant color from adistance. Foliage fades to tan after frost. Tiny reddish flowers appear in tassel-like inflorescenceswhich rise above the foliage clump in September, gradually turning into silvery plumes in fall asthe seeds mature. Plumes persist well into winter providing good winter interest.Problems:No frequently occurring insect or disease problems. In some areas of the U.S., miscanthusmealybug and miscanthus blight are becoming significant problems. Miscanthus mealybugcauses stunted growth and is difficult to eradicate because it lives inside the stems. Miscanthusblight is a fungal disease which attacks the blades and sheaths. 'Variegatus' is considered to be amedium maintenance plant because mature plants usually need staking.Uses:Versatile ornamental grass. Accent, specimen, grouping, mass or screen. Borders, meadows, wildgardens, cottage gardens, naturalized areas or pond/water garden peripheries.Back to plant list- 58 -

Taxodium Distichum – ‘Bald Cypress’Aka: Bald CypressCommon Name: bald cypressZone: 4 to 9Plant Type: TreeFamily: TaxodiaceaeNative Range: Southeastern United StatesHeight: 50 to 70 feetSpread: 20 to 45 feetBloom Time: Non-floweringBloom Color: BrownSun: Full sunWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium to wet, moisture retentive but reasonably well-drained soils infull sun. Prefers moist, acidic, sandy soils, but tolerates a wide range of soil conditions rangingfrom somewhat dry soils to wet soils in standing water.Noteworthy Characteristics:Bald cypress is a long-lived, pyramidal conifer (cone-bearing tree) which grows 50-70' tall (lessfrequently to 125'). Although it looks like a needled evergreen (same family as redwoods) insummer, it is deciduous ("bald" as the common name suggests). It is native to southern swamps,bayous and rivers, primarily being found in coastal areas from Maryland to Texas and in thelower Mississippi River valley to as far north as the southeast corner of Missouri. In the deepSouth, it is a familiar sight growing directly in swampy water, often in large strands, with itsbranches heavily draped with Spanish moss. In cultivation, however, it grows very well in drier,- 59 -

upland soils. Trunks are buttressed (flared or fluted) at the base, and when growing in water,often develop distinctive, knobby root growths ("knees") which protrude above the water surfacearound the tree. Soft, feathery, yellowish-green foliage (1/4" long, flat needles in two ranks)turns an attractive orange/cinnamon-brown in fall. Rounded, wrinkled, 1 inch diameter, purplishgreencones mature to brown. Heavy, straight-grained, rot-resistant wood has been used for avariety of purposes including barrels, railroad ties and shingles. Closest relative is the dawnredwood (Metasequoia) which is also deciduous. Taxodium in Greek means resembling yews(Taxus) in reference to the flat needles. State tree of Louisiana.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Chlorosis often occurs in alkaline soils. Bagworms, gallmites and spider mites are occasional insect pests and twig blight is an occasional disease pest.Uses:A large ornamental tree for parks or large lawns. Good selection for growing in wet soils eitherin low spots or near water.Back to plant list- 60 -

Acer Palmatum – ‘Bloodgood’Aka: Bloodgood Japanese MapleCommon Name: Japanese mapleZone: 5 to 8Plant Type: TreeFamily: AceraceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 15 to 20 feetSpread: 15 to 20 feetBloom Time: April Bloom DataBloom Color: RedSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium moisture soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers lightly dappledshade. Plant in a location protected from strong winds.Noteworthy Characteristics:This Japanese maple cultivar (non-dissected type) is a small, rounded, deciduous tree whichtypically grows to 15-20' tall and features purplish-red flowers in spring, deep reddish-purplesummer foliage, red samaras in late summer to early fall and good crimson-red fall color. Aswith many maples, the flowers are rather attractive close up, but are not particularly showy froma distance. Palmate leaves (5-7 lobes) are 2-5" long. May also be grown as a multi-stemmedshrub.- 61 -

Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.No serious insect or disease problems. Susceptible to stem canker. Foliage tends to leaf out earlyin spring and is subject to damage from any late frosts.Uses:Ornamental, compact understory tree grown primarily for its attractive foliage and shape.Specimen/accent or group around the home or yard or periphery of the border or rock garden.Multi-stemmed shrub form is effective in small groupings in shrub borders.Back to plant list- 62 -

Betula Nigra – ‘Heritage’Aka: Heritage River BirchCommon Name: river birchZone: 4 to 9Plant Type: TreeFamily: BetulaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 40 to 70 feetSpread: 40 to 60 feetBloom Time: April - MayBloom Color: Brown (male) and green (female)Sun: Full sun to part shadeWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. River birchesare perhaps the most culturally adaptable and heat tolerant of the birches. Prefers moist, acidic,fertile soils, including semi-aquatic conditions, but also tolerates drier soils. Adapts well to heavyclay soils and will tolerate poor drainage. Avoid pruning in spring when the sap is running.Noteworthy Characteristics:This river birch cultivar is a vigorous, fast-growing, medium-sized tree which can be grown aseither a single trunk or multi-stemmed tree. As a single trunk tree, it develops a pyramidal habitwhen young, but gradually matures into a more rounded habit, typically growing 40-70' tall.Multi-stemmed trees form a more irregular shaped crown, and are often considered the superior- 63 -

growth habit for this tree. This cultivar features salmon-cream to brownish bark which exfoliatesto reveal a creamy white inner bark that can be nearly as white as the white-barked birches.Leathery, diamond-shaped, dark green leaves (1.5-3.5" long) with doubly toothed margins arelarger and glossier than the species and turn a respectable yellow in fall. Flowers are contained indrooping, brownish male catkins (2-3" long) and insignificant, smaller, upright, greenish femalecatkins, both of which appear in spring on the same tree. The plant was found growing in St.Louis, Missouri by Earl Cully. Although the Royal Horticultural Society lists this plant ascultivar 'Heritage' it appears that the correct cultivar name is 'Cully'. The plant is being soldunder the trade name HERITAGE. U.S. Plant Patent #4,409 issued April 24, 1979.Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.One of the most disease-free birches. River birches in general and 'Heritage' in particular isextremely resistant to the bronze birch borer and also has good resistance to leaf spot diseases.Some susceptibility to aphids and leaf miners and to iron chlorosis in high pH soils, but these aresomewhat minor problems in comparison to the birch borer.Uses:Excellent (as specimen or in small groups) for lawns, parks, and commercial properties and, inparticular, for wet soils along ponds or streams or in low spots. Frequently planted with a darkfoliage or shady background. An excellent choice for the St. Louis area, and generally a goodsubstitute for the paper birch in hot and humid climates in USDA Zones 5 to 9.Back to plant list- 64 -

Cornus KousaAka: Kousa DogwoodGeneral Culture:Best grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained, sandy soils in full sun to partshade.Noteworthy Characteristics:Kousa dogwood (also sometimes commonly called Japanese dogwood) is a small, deciduousflowering tree or large multi-stemmed shrub which typically grows 15-30’ tall with a vaseshapedhabit in the early years, eventually maturing to a more rounded habit. As in the case offlowering dogwood (see Cornus Florida – C280), the showy parts of the Kousa dogwood“flower” (3-5” across) are the four white petal-like bracts which surround the center cluster ofinsignificant, yellowish-green, true flowers. However, the showy bracts of Kousa are narrowlypointed whereas the bracts of flowering dogwood are rounded. Bloom occurs in late spring(several weeks after flowering dogwood). Flowers are followed by berry-like fruits (to 1”diameter) which mature to a pinkish red in summer and persist into fall. Fruits are edible, but areusually left for the birds. Dark green foliage turns reddish purple to scarlet in autumn. CornusKousa var. chinensis (Chinese dogwood – H640) is very similar to the species, except it isslightly more floriferous and its showy flower bracts are slightly larger.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. This plant has better disease resistance and better coldhardiness than flowering dogwood, and is an excellent alternative to flowering dogwood in areaswhere dogwood anthracnose is a problem.- 65 -

Uses:A stunning flowering tree or large shrub with good fall color. Plant as a specimen or in smallgroupings on residential property around homes, near patios or in lawns. Also effective in shrubborders, woodland gardens, bird gardens or naturalized areas.Back to plant list- 66 -

Cupressocyparis LeylandiiAka: Leyland CypressCommon Name: Leyland cypressZone: 6 to 10Plant Type: Needled evergreenFamily: CupressaceaeNative Range: NoneHeight: 60 to 70 feetSpread: 10 to 15 feetBloom Time: Non-floweringBloom Color: Non-floweringSun: Full sunWater: MediumMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Best grown in moist, fertile, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerant of a wide variety of soils,including relatively lean ones. Takes well to pruning and shearing. Seed produced is viable, butmay not be true to the mother plant.Noteworthy Characteristics:Leland cypress is a bi-generic fertile hybrid between Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa)and nootka false cypress (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis). It is a fast-growing (18-36” per year inearly years) evergreen conifer with a dense, broad-columnar to narrow-pyramidal habit thattypically grows as a tree to 60-70’ (less frequently to 100’) tall in landscapes unless prunedotherwise. From its nootka false cypress parent, it inherits its habit, foliage and winter hardiness,- 67 -

and from its Monterey cypress parent, it inherits is branching pattern and rapid growth. Featuresflattened sprays of gray-green foliage on slender upright branches and dark brown fruiting cones(to 3/4” across), each with 8 scales. Scaly, reddish-brown bark. Common name honors C. J.Leland who grew some of the first of this hybrids at Leighton Hall, Welshpool, Wales in 1888.Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Canker and root rot may occur. Watch for bagworms.Uses:Fast growing hedges, screens and windbreaks (10-15’ tall). Specimen.Back to plant list- 68 -

Quercus ShumardiiAka: Shumard OakCommon Name: Shumard OakZone: 5 to 9Plant Type: TreeFamily: FagaceaeNative Range: Southeastern United StatesHeight: 40 to 60 feetSpread: 30 to 40 feetBloom Time: AprilBloom Color: GreenishSun: Full sunWater: Dry to mediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, dry to medium moisture, acidic, well-drained soils in full sun. Toleratesa wide range of soil conditions including wet soils.Noteworthy Characteristics:Shumard oak is a medium sized, deciduous tree of the red oak group. Pyramidal in youth butspreads to a broad open crown with age. Typically grows at a moderately fast rate to a height of40-60' (to 100' in the wild). Shiny, dark green leaves (6-8" long) with deep, spiny lobes (usually7-9 lobes). Fall color appears late, but is often a respectable brownish red. Insignificant flowersin separate male and female catkins appear in early spring as the leaves emerge. Fruits are acornswhich are usually not produced until the tree has reached the age of 25 years. Indigenous tocentral and southern Missouri in moist locations in bottomlands and lowlands, including sites- 69 -

along streams and lakes, valleys, floodplains and at the edge of swamps. However, in the St.Louis area, it is most often found on dry, elevated sites. Similar in appearance and habit to scarletoak (Quercus coccinea - R700).Problems:Generally a durable and long-lived tree, but is susceptible to a large number of potential diseasesand insect pests, including anthracnose, canker, leaf spot, rust, blight, galls, caterpillars, borers,leaf miners, oak lace bug and oak mite. Chlorosis (yellowing of the leaves while the veins remaingreen) often occurs when soils are not properly acidic. Can be difficult to transplant andestablish.Uses:Shade tree, street tree, lawn tree. Does well in wide range of soils from dry locations to wetground and low spots.Back to plant list- 70 -

Acer SaccharumAka: Sugar MapleCommon Name: sugar mapleZone: 3 to 8Plant Type: TreeFamily: AceraceaeNative Range: Eastern North AmericaHeight: 40 to 80 feetSpread: 30 to 60 feetBloom Time: AprilBloom Color: GreenishSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers fertile,slightly acidic soil. Shade tolerant.Noteworthy Characteristics:Sugar maple is a deciduous, Missouri native tree which will typically grow 40' to 80' tall(sometimes to 100') with a dense, rounded crown. This tree is a main component of the EasternU.S. hardwood forest and is one of the trees which is most responsible for giving New Englandits reputation for spectacular fall color. Medium green leaves (3-6" wide with 3-5 lobes) turnyellow-orange in autumn, sometimes with considerable color variations. Fruit is the familiar twowingedsamara. Sugar maples are long-lived trees which grow relatively slowly (somewhat fasterin the first 35 years). Native Americans taught the early colonists how to tap these trees to makemaple syrup which has now become a multi-billion dollar industry in the U.S. and Canada.Excellent shade tree.- 71 -

Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to verticillium wilt. Leaf scorch maybe a problem in drought conditions. Has been frequently used as a street tree, but is generallyintolerant of road salt, soil compaction and pollution.Uses:Excellent specimen tree for the lawn or parks. May be used as a street tree as long as it can belocated on a street and in a location where road salt, soil compaction and pollution will not besignificant problems.Back to plant list- 72 -

Magnolia VirginianaAka: Sweetbay MagnoliaCommon Name: sweet bay magnoliaZone: 5 to 10Plant Type: TreeFamily: MagnoliaceaeNative Range: Eastern United StatesHeight: 10 to 35 feetSpread: 10 to 35 feetBloom Time: May - June Bloom DataBloom Color: WhiteSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in acidic, medium to wet soils in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, rich, organicsoils, but, unlike most other magnolias, tolerates wet, boggy soils. Also does quite well in theheavy clay soils of Missouri. Appreciates a protected location in USDA Zone 5 where it is notreliably winter hardy throughout.Noteworthy Characteristics:Sweet bay magnolia is native to the southeastern United States north along the Atlantic coast toNew York. In the northern part of its cultivated growing range, it typically grows as either a 15-20' tall tree with a spreading, rounded crown or as a shorter, suckering, open, multi-stemmedshrub. In the deep South, it is apt to be more tree-like, sometimes growing to 60' tall. Featurescup-shaped, sweetly fragrant (lemony), 9-12 petaled, creamy white, waxy flowers (2-3"diameter) which appear in mid-spring and sometimes continue sporadically throughout thesummer. Oblong-lanceolate shiny green foliage is silvery beneath. Foliage is evergreen to semievergreenin the South, but generally deciduous in the St. Louis area. Cone-like fruits with brightred seeds mature in fall and can be showy. See also Magnolia virginiana var. australis (A640)which primarily differs from the species by being somewhat taller, having more fragrant flowersand being more likely to be evergreen.- 73 -

Problems:No serious insect or disease problems. Susceptible to chlorosis in alkaline soils. Not reliablywinter hardy in the St. Louis area.Uses:Excellent specimen tree for lawns or tall multi-stemmed shrub for shrub borders. Use infoundation plantings, near patios or on the periphery of woodland areas. Often planted in parks.Will grow in wet soils such as those found in low spots or near ponds/streams.Back to plant list- 74 -

Gleditsia Triacanthos InermisAka: Thornless HoneylocustCommon Name: honey locustZone: 3 to 8Plant Type: TreeFamily: FabaceaeNative Range: Central and eastern North AmericaHeight: 60 to 80 feetSpread: 60 to 80 feetBloom Time: May - JuneBloom Color: Greenish-yellowSun: Full sunWater: MediumMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Best grown in organically rich, moist, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerant of a wide range ofsoils. Also tolerant of wind, high summer heat, drought and saline conditions.Noteworthy Characteristics:Honey locust is native from Pennsylvania to Iowa south to Georgia and Texas. In Missouri, itcommonly occurs in moist soils of low woodland areas in valleys and along streams, and in driersoils of upland slopes and pastures throughout the state (Steyermark). It typically grows 60-80’(less frequently to 120’) tall with a rounded spreading crown. Trunk and branches have stoutthorns (to 3” long) that are solitary or three-branched. Pinnate to bipinnate yellow green leaveswith ovate leaflets (1/2” to 1 1/2” long). Pinnate leaves have 10-15 pairs of leaflets and bipinnateleaves have 4-7 pairs of pinnae. Feathery leaves cast a sun-dappled shade. Leaves turn yellow infall, but sometime drop off early without providing any significant fall color display. Greenishyellow to greenish white flowers appear in racemes in late spring (May-June in St. Louis).Flowers are followed by long, twisted and flattened, dark purplish-brown seedpods (to 18” long)which mature in late summer and persist well into winter. Seedpods contain, in addition to seeds,a sweet gummy substance that gives honey locust its common name. Specific epithet comes from- 75 -

the Greek acantha (thorn) and tri (three) in reference to the three-branched thorns. Species plantsare generally not sold in commerce. Thornless varieties and cultivars that produce few if anyseedpods are the preferred plants (e.g., Gleditsia triacanthos f. inermis). Genus name honorsJohann Gottlieb Gleditsch (1714-1786), medical doctor and one-time Director of the BerlinBotanical Garden.Problems:Honey locust is susceptible to a large number of potential disease problems, including leaf spot,canker, witches’ broom, powdery mildew and rust. Borers and webworms are common insectproblems in some areas. Leaflets are too small to rake, which is good, but seed pods areunattractive on the tree and messy when they fall. Thorns on species plants can be just plainnasty.Back to plant list- 76 -

Salix BabylonicaAka: Weeping WillowCommon Name: Babylon weeping willowZone: 6 to 8Plant Type: TreeFamily: SalicaceaeNative Range: Northern ChinaHeight: 30 to 40 feetSpread: 30 to 40 feetBloom Time: April - MayBloom Color: Silver greenSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: Medium to wetMaintenance: MediumGeneral Culture:Grow in average, medium to wet, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Thrives in moistsoils. Avoid dry soils. Prefers full sun. Prune as needed in late winter to early spring. Thisspecies may not be reliably winter hardy in the St. Louis area, and is best grown in the southernparts of the U. S.Noteworthy Characteristics:Native to China, weeping willow (sometimes called Babylon weeping willow) is a smalldeciduous tree that grows to 30-40’ tall with a broad rounded crown of branches that weep to theground. Many consider this tree to have the best form of the weeping willows available incommerce. Branchlets are typically green or brown (not yellow as with S. alba ‘Tristis’).Weeping willow can be a spectacular specimen at the edge of a pond with its branches gracefullyweeping down and touching the water, however, it is often very difficult to site this tree in aresidential landscape. It is dioecious, with male and female flowers appearing in silvery greencatkins on separate male and female trees. Flowering catkins appear in April-May, but are notshowy. Narrow, lanceolate, finely-toothed leaves (to 6” long and 3/4” wide) are light green- 77 -

above and gray-green beneath. Variable fall color is usually an undistinguished greenish-yellow.This tree has more pendulous branching and is more compact than Salix alba ‘Tristis’ (seeC144). The specific epithet was given to this tree by Carl Linnaeus who mistakenly believed it tobe the biblical willow of Babylon. The true species may not be available in commerce any more.Problems:Susceptible to numerous disease problems including blights, powdery mildew, leaf spots andcankers. It also is visited by many insect pests including aphids, scale, borers, lacebugs andcaterpillars. Wood is weak and tends to crack. Branches may be damaged by ice and snow. Litterfrom leaves, twigs and branches may be a problem. Shallow roots may clog sewers or drains andmake gardening underneath the trees difficult.Uses:Weeping form of this tree is quite beautiful when the tree is planted in appropriate settings.Weeping willow may be grown most effectively in moist soils along streams, ponds or otherwater bodies. It is generally not recommended for use as a specimen in residential landscapesbecause of its susceptibility to breakage, potential insect/disease problems, spreading roots andlitter potential.Back to plant list- 78 -

Pinus StrobusAka: White PineCommon Name: eastern white pineZone: 3 to 8Plant Type: Needled evergreenFamily: PinaceaeNative Range: Southeastern Canada, eastern United StatesHeight: 50 to 80 feetSpread: 20 to 40 feetBloom Time: Non-floweringBloom Color: Non-floweringSun: Full sun to part shadeWater: MediumMaintenance: LowGeneral Culture:Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun. Prefers full sun, fertile soils andcool, humid climates. Tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions. Intolerant of many airpollutants such as sulfur dioxide and ozone.Noteworthy Characteristics:Eastern white pine is a rapid-growing, long-lived, needled evergreen tree that is native to thenortheastern United States and Canada (State tree of Maine and Michigan). Although pyramidalin its early years, it matures to a broad oval habit with an irregular crown. Typically grows 50-80'in cultivation, but will grow to 100' tall in the wild, with records existing to over 200'. Landscapesize and shape can be controlled through pruning, however, to the extent that white pine may besheared and grown as a hedge. Bluish green needles (to 5" long) are soft to the touch and appearin bundles of five. Cylindrical, brown cones ( 4-8" long) are usually not produced until 5-10years. An important timber tree (perhaps more so in the 18th and 19th centuries than now) which- 79 -

was and is valued for its lightweight, straight-grained wood (orange heartwood and whitesapwood).Problems: Click for detailed list of pests and problems.Generally a low-maintenance tree. Some susceptibility to white pine blister rust which is a barkdisease that is usually fatal. Species of Ribes (e.g., currants or gooseberries) are the alternate hostfor white pine blister rust and may be considered as candidates for elimination in areas wherewhite pines are under attack. White pine blister rust is not considered to be a problem in Missourihowever. Also some susceptibility to white pine weevil which is an insect pest that attacksterminal shoots thus damaging the shape of the tree.Uses:An excellent specimen tree for lawns or parks. Site in areas with adequate space to accommodatefuture growth. May be planted as a hedge, however, with regular shearing to control growth andshape.Back to plant list- 80 -