Every week we’re publishing a NEW Plant Picks of the Week story, showcasing our Plant Specialists’ top plant picks. Get ready to be inspired!
We recently asked Toni Fisher to share her top plant picks. Here’s what she had to say:
Eastern Redbud
Cercis canadensis
A spectacular spring bloomer, with very showy pink to purple flowers held tightly on bare branches in early spring; somewhat coarse heart-shaped leaves; rivals any small ornamental tree for specimen use in the home landscape
Invincibelle® Spirit II Smooth Hydrangea
Hydrangea arborescens ‘NCHA2’
This improved selection features enormous ball-shaped deep pink flower heads on sturdy stems, lasting for a very long time; best if treated like a perennial and pruned to a few inches from the ground in spring, blooms on new growth
Arctic Fire® Yellow Dogwood
Cornus sericea ‘SMNCSBD’
A compact, very hardy shrub that is ideal for general garden use in northern landscapes; cheerful yellow stems add color to the winter landscape; excellent for massing; some suckering will occur
Gold Cone Juniper
Juniperus communis ‘Gold Cone’
An exciting new selection of this native juniper with an upright, conical habit, new foliage is a bright gold in full sun, fading to yellow-green in summer, the contrast between old and new needles is stunning; makes a great colorful low hedge
Mikawa Yatsubusa Japanese Maple
Acer palmatum ‘Mikawa Yatsubusa’
This is a lovely dwarf variety that adds visual interest to the garden or walkways; rich green foliage all summer long; striking orange to scarlet fall foliage is captivating and brilliant; best in sheltered area