Echinacea

The genus of Euphorbia contains about 2000 species, all of which contain a milky sap that is caustic or poisonous.  Needless to say, deer and gophers stay away from these very interesting, useful and attractive plants.  Euphorbia pulcherrima is the poinsettia of Christmas.  What we call the flowers are actually bracts that surround the very…

Coreopsis adds a lovely bit of color to the garden.  These are tough plants that need little to moderate water and they seem to bloom almost endlessly, especially if deadheaded.  They also tend to self-sow, so be prepared for either even more color or a bit of weeding.

Calylophus drummondii (Texas primrose) Low and spreading, this plant blooms from late spring through fall. Calylophus becomes a three foot mat of papery, bright yellow flowers. It likes lots of sunshine and demands little water. It is one plant we always attempt to have on hand in the nursery and has become one of our very best…

Gaillardia is a great perennial for sunny spots.  It flowers profusely, loves heat and needs only moderate water.  Flower color ranges from yellow to orange and yellow to bicolor (as shown at left) to red.  Bloom time lasts from early summer to frost.

The genus Chrysanthemum provides gardeners with some indispensable plants.  Shasta daisy (C. maximum) is a wonderful summer blooming perennial that is available in tall or dwarf forms.  Flowers can be single, double or somewhat shaggy. C. hosmariense is a great little plant, growing to about eight inches tall and two feet wide.  It has finely…

Perovskia, or Russian sage, is not a true sage, but it has some similarities.  It needs little water, is very tolerant of heat and requires good drainage.  Sprays of purple flowers appear in late spring and summer.