Quercus chrysolepisCañon Live Oak
An extremely handsome, evergreen native oak found in western dry country and able to withstand great drought, these from acorns collected in the wild near Cave Junction, Oregon at 4000 ft. Wonderfully adapted to dry summer climates and very successful as a street tree. Fast growing when young and slowing in maturity, these can reach 20-30 ft in your lifteime in deep soil with bright sun to part shade. Frost hardy into at least the single digits, F, low USDA zone 7. Can be shrubby when young so encourage a strong leader.
Fagaceae $16 4D

Quercus corrugata Ridge Oak
Collected in Quetzalan Peublo from about 7500 ft by plantsman Allen Taylor. This is a most handsome evergreen oak grows to about 70 ft, though we expect a reasonable 30 ft in the garden in 10-15 years and slow growth thereafter. The silvery bark is a perfect backdrop for the attractive, 4" x 2" pleated leaves that emerge red and fade to a lustrous green. Can lose some leaves toward late winter, early spring. Drought tolerant though in dry climates summer water will push growth. The high elevation collection suggests frost hardiness to at least the bottom of USDA zone 8 and possibly a bit cooler.
Fagaceae $18 4D

Quercus guyavifolia
Another fabulous evergreen oak, this to 20-25 ft tall with a rounded, pyramidal form and small leaves, dark green and shiny above with velvety brown indumentum on the undersides -- the guava leaf oak. This is a Chinese oak that is tolerant of both drought and summer water making it easy to place. A handsome addition to the garden or parking strip. Frost hardy to at least mid USDA zone 8 and probably lower.
Fagaceae $16 4D

Quercus hypoleucoidesSilver Oak
We first fell in love with this plant in the 1980s upon seeing a collection from an expedition of Boyd Kline and Frank Callahan to northeastern Mexico. Our first up close and personal experience was on New Year's Day, seeing these exquisite 25 ft tall by 15 ft wide trees in the Chiricahua Mountains of southeast Arizona where, under bright blue skies and with a few inches of snow on the ground, the dazzling sliver undersides of the leaves reflected as if illuminated by spot light. Fast growing when young. The narrow leaves are very leathery and shiny and can age to maroon on the upper surface in cold temperatures. A plant for sun, well-drained soil, and quite possibly hardy into low to mid USDA zone 6. But we are sure about zone 7. Our favorite oak, really.
Fagaceae $18 LP

Quercus mexicana - Allan Taylor Collection
This collection via Allan Taylor is one of our most coveted, evergreen garden trees. To 30 ft tall or more with a pattern of horizontal branches adorned with 2", compact, oval leaves of leathery green all along the silvery bark. Destined to become an important street or garden tree in western Oregon and elsewhere. Tolerant of a wide range of conditions except for sitting in water. Frost hardy to mid to low USDA zone 7. Though evergreen, drops a portion of its leaves in early spring so don't panic.
Fagaceae $16 4D

Quercus myrsinifoliaChinese evergreen oak
One of the more handsome of the evergreen oaks, this one native to Japan and Asia, with bronze new growth maturing to glossy green leaves that end in a curious drip tip. Grows at a medium rate to 30 ft tall as an upright and spreading specimen. Best full to part sun with regular summer water but tolerates summer drought once established. Makes an excellent street tree or container plant. Cold hardy in USDA zone 7.
Fagaceae $15 3D

Quercus suberCork Oak
The famed cork oak from the savannas of southwestern Europe, indeed used for repeated harvest of the real thing! Coming from our mirror climate, this makes a most beautiful and useful street or garden tree, reaching an eventual 50 ft, with thickened, orangey bark and rounded, evergreen leaves, somewhat shedding briefly in early spring as the new leaves emerge. (By the way, pigs love the acorns ... just saying.) Accepts a fair amount of garden water but most at home with long summer drought. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Fagaceae $12 4D

Quercus tomentellaIsland Oak
Quite rare in commerce, this striking tree, to 30 ft tall or so and endemic to the islands just off the coast of southern California, has 4" adult leaves that look very much like Lithocarpus densiflorus -- rather glossy green, rounded ovals with most attractive pleats particularly visible on the silvery undersides. Prefers sun and dry summers but tolerates average garden conditions as long as the drainage is good. These make good street trees or specimens for the mid-sized garden. Frost hardy to the upper end of USDA zone 7.
Fagaceae $16 4D

Raphiocarpus petelotii
Fabulous, rare and gorgeous relative of violets and gloxinias from the mountains of Vietnam with fuzzy, deeply veined leaves up to 6" long, changeably variegated in green and silver on top -- sometimes quite dark -- with red-purple undersides! The summer flowers are spectacular -- flared white to cream tubes with purple stripes. Easy to grow, spreading by underground rhizomes, the new growth emerging in spring. Bright light with afternoon shade in well-drained soil kept evenly moist. Reported frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Gesneriaceae $16 4D

Rhamnus alaternus 'John Edwards' Italian buckthorn
One of the most versatile, durable, easy, and drought tolerant plants for Mediterranean climates, this selection having come from Tilden Park in Berkeley, California. Small tree, to 20 ft, or large shrub, to 12 ft, easily trimmed as a handsome hedge. Evergreen leaves are small, crinkley, and dark green; greenish white flowers also small, and produce black berries adding texture. Full sun with very little summer water. Frost hardy to 5F, USDA zone 7b.
Rhamnaceae $14 4D

Rhaphiolepis umbellata f. ovata
One of the more handsome Indian hawthorns, this bold textured, evergreen, shrub (or miniature tree?), to 5-8 ft, is adorned with glossy, 3", rounded oval leaves of deep green with a light coating of hairs, and white to shell pink flowers spring through fall. Drought tolerant but fine with summer moisture. Full sun to dappled shade; reasonable drainage; low or high nutrients. Frost hardy to the lower end USDA zone 8; possibly 7.
Rosaceae $12 4D

Rhapidophyllum hystrixNeedle palm
Wonderful rare species growing amid the cypress swamps of northern Florida, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia, and just nipping into South Carolina. This slow growing clumper -- eventually to 10 ft with multiple offsets -- has a trunk covered with blackish fur and numerous spines, and graceful, glossy green leaves on long petioles. An easy plant in the garden; happy in shade to full sun in coastal climates and appreciative of generous summer water. Slow growing where nights are cool. Possibly the hardiest palm with numerous reports of little to no damage at 0 to -10F, USDA zone 6, and some of survival as cold as -22F, upper USDA zone 4, with only a little protection. Avoid root disturbance when transplanting. Very slow from seed. Ours are 7 years old.
Arecaceae $19 4D

Rhodophiala bifida oxblood lily
Lovely South American equivalent of the South African amaryllis. Flowers in late summer with deep dusky-red, lily-like blooms on 1 ft stems. Grass-like, strappy leaves follow the flowers. Easy in the garden, in well-drained soil with protection from the very hottest sun. Water in their growing season. Easily grown as a houseplant and encouraged into bloom for the holiday season. Frost hardy with mulch in upper USDA zone 6.
Amaryllidaceae $15 2D

Ribes indecorumwhite flowering currant
Also known as white chaparral currant, this ribes is a deciduous shrub found primarily in California's dry country and growing to 6 ft tall or so, with lobed and veined leaves. Its great attraction is the early spring flowers, white and fragrant, drawing hummingbirds and butterflies, later turning to berries that feed other birds. Best in full sun in good drainage. Extremely drought tolerant, so no summer water once established. Frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5.
Grossulariaceae $15 3D

Ribes viburnifolium - Tree of Life formcatalina perfume
Not your typical ribes, this is an evergreen ground cover, to only 18" tall and spreading to 4-5 ft wide, for the dry garden in sun to part shade. Flowers are small and hardly noticeable. This glossy-leaved California native is indispensable under Douglas fir or native oak, slowly spreading via underground runners. Sun to part shade with no summer water. Easy. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8b.
Grossulariaceae $14 3D

Rohdea japonica 'Mure-suzume Improved'
Exquisitely variegated rohdea, the deep green leaves delightfully bright with wide cream stripes and margins. Slow growing, though vigorous for a variegated rohdea and much more vigorous than the "unimproved" cultivar reaching 18-24" tall in clumps nearly as wide. Excellent as a pot specimen or in the woodland garden. Lovers of deep shade and even moisture for best growth. Frost hardy to USDA zone 6.
Liliaceae $18 4D

Rosmarinus officinalis 'Calvor's Sicilian'
Named on September 11, 2009, this lovely new rosemary from our friend Calvor Palmeteer, of Victoria, came from his grandmother's garden in Vancouver, BC, having been brought there many years ago from Sicily. Densely upright with deep blue winter flowers, yet spilling gracefully with little provocation, over walls or other suitable spots. Sun and good drainage with little summer water. Has taken 0 degrees F, USDA zone 7, on numerous occasions. WOW!
Lamiaceae $12 4D

Rubus lineatusBubble Plant
The Chinese named this "bubble plant" for its clusters of red fruit; we just call it stunning! A striking plant for the half shaded garden with pleated, evergreen leaves, silky smooth green on top with silvery undersides, on arching stems to 6-10 ft tall. Lovely on a high bank where the silvery undersides can be seen mixing with the green. White flowers become red, raspberry-like fruits - but it's about the foliage! Very resilient. Enjoys some summer water. Cold hardy in USDA zones 7.
Rosaceae $14 4D

Rubus parvifolius 'Ogon'Japanese raspberry
Deciduous, ground-covering shrublet, a selection of a Japanese native species also occurring in Australia. Lax stems are often prostrate but can reach up to 3 ft tall or so with rounded, three-part leaves, very golden in this form, and pink flowers in late spring. Grown primarily for the bright foliage, though edible red fruits may appear. Cool sun or afternoon shade in moist, rich soil with average summer water. Frost hardy to at least 0F, USDA zone 7, and possibly lower.
Rosaceae $12 4D

Ruschia namaquana ice Plant
Small shrub, to about 2 ft, with clasping succulent leaves giving it the appearance of a strange sea creature rather than a desert shrub. One of the first succulents Sean received as a child from a defunct succulent nursery in the San Joaquin valley. Very drought tolerant as its Namaqualand origins would indicate, though it prefers to be damp in the winter for best growth. Full sun. Excellent pot specimen. Reliably hardy to just a bit under 20F, uppermost USDA zone 8; colder with protection.
Aizoaceae $12 4D

Sabal louisiana
This close relative of Sabal minor has leaves infused in blue on a particularly large growing species that can reach to 6 or 8 ft or more and often forms a very short trunk. Great for a large scale ground cover or individual specimen. Prefers well-drained but moist soil and loves summer warmth. Has proven root hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7 or so coming back from the base; and frost hardy at 10 to 15F, mid zone 8 without leaf damage.
Arecaceae $16 4D

Salvia buchananii 'Velvet Slipper'Buchanan's Sage
Perennial salvia producing bright magenta flowers from late spring to autumn on purple stems shared with shiny green leaves. Slow growing, to only 1 ft tall and wide, these tuck into the garden they can have good drainage and some protection from the hottest sun. Not one of the drought tolerant salvias, these expect to stay moist in summer. Evergreen in USDA zone 10 and frost hardy into the upper teens F, so best thought of as USDA zone 9 and treated tenderly.
Lamiaceae $12 3D

Salvia corrugata
Striking Central American species, these beautiful, evergreen shrubs have rusty stems and shiny patent leather, narrow oval leaves surrounded and underset by a rich copper indumentum. Autumn flowers are lilac and white. Can reach 4-5 ft but easily kept to a smaller size. Full sun to medium shade in nearly any soil conditions. Superb for containers and annual planting, or as a permanent feature in gardens where temperatures seldom fall to 25F, mid USDA zone 9. Easily propagated from cuttings at the end of the season.
Lamiaceae $12 4in

Sambucus nigra f. laciniata cutleaf elderberry
Graceful, deeply cut leaves set this elderberry apart from all others. A large multi-trunked tree or shrub, deciduous, to 8-10 ft tall x 6-8 ft wide in an elegant, vase-shaped form. Accepts coppicing. Blooms earlier in spring than others, with flattened cymes of creamy white flowers. Elderberries are, of course, edible in jams and syrups. Best ini sun to part shade with supplemental summer water. Frost hardy to -30F, USDA zone 4.
Adoxaceae $12 4D

Sarcococca ruscifolia sweet box
Evergreen shrub, to 4-6 ft, quietly fills an empty spot in part to dense shade and bursts forth in winter with a remarkably sweet fragrance from an abundance of small, white, thread-like flowers. Red berries turn black and remain through summer. Branches root easily providing more plants for more winter fragrance. Regular summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Buxaceae $11 4D

Sarcococca ruscifolia var. chinensis 'Dragon Gate'
Discovered in 1980 by Roy Lancaster in Yunnan China, and named Dragon Gate for the temple entrance near which it was found. With this prestigious provenance, a 4 ft, arching shrub with staunchly evergreen leaves, looking much like Danae racemosa. Very late autumn to mid winter flowers of creamy white followed by blue-black berries. A wonderfully fragrant and handsome addition to the winter garden. Tolerant of deep shade to nearly full sun in all but the hottest climates. Appreciative of some summer water where dry. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Buxaceae $15 4D

Sarcococca salicifolia sweet box
One of the most unusual and graceful of the sarcococcas, this 4 to 5 ft shrub of equal spread possesses arching branches and long, yes, willow-like leaves of shiny light green, appearing very much like bamboo as well. The particularly fragrant flowers are most abundant in fall into early winter and are a creamy green-yellow melding beautifully with the shiny leaves. Light dappled shade to full shade -- ok in sun in coastal climates -- with reasonable summer water and fertile to average soil. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8, though a form exists in the JC Raulston Arboretum in USDA zone 7 in North Carolina suffering only occasional damage.
Buxaceae $15 4D

Sarcococca salignasweet box
This winter-blooming shrub, with tiny white, thread-like flowers and delightful December to February fragrance, comes from the high mountains of Afghanistan. To 3 ft tall x 6 ft wide eventually, with densely held, evergreen leaves, narrow and tapered, dark green above and lighter beneath. Full sun to part shade with regular summer moisture. This form was shared with us by Western Hills Nursery. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8.
Buxaceae $15 4D

Saruma henryiupright wild ginger
A rare asarum cousin from China with fuzzy, heart-shaped leaves, to 5"! To only 2 ft tall x 3 ft wide. Perfect for the shade garden especially when the lovely, butter-yellow flowers appear in spring and throughout most of the summer. A die-back perennial, they need part to full shade, well-drained soil, and regular moisture in summer. Frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5. Stump the neighbors!
Aristolochiaceae $14 4D

Saxifraga stoloniferarockfoil
A lovely strawberry begonia shared with us by the Elizabeth C. Miller Garden in Seattle. Much like the classic pass-along plant, but possessing smaller leaves, evergreen and deep velvety green adorned with scalloped edges that could only be described as cute. White summer flowers appear in delicate sprays. Spreads gently by runners. Part shade to shade in moist soil with summer water in dry areas. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7. A very nice container plant or small scale groundcover.
Saxifragaceae $11 4in

Saxifraga stolonifera 'Harvest Moon'strawberry begonia
Just right for a carefree addition to a shaded spot, to only 3-6" tall , spreading slowly into small colonies with golden foliage. Best with just the right amount of light to bring out the brightest of yellows while avoiding any burn. Sprays of tiny white flowers appear in late spring to early summer. Extremely easy in well-drained soil and summer moisture with a little dryness between waterings. Evergreen in USDA zone 8 and 9; root hardy in USDA zone 6.
Saxifragaceae $12 4in

Saxifraga umbrosa var. primuloidesminiature London pride
Wonderful saxifrage, with evergreen rosettes of dark green leaves - echeveria-like - forming a ground-covering mat in part shade or dappled shade. Can produce sprays of pinkish flowers. Accepts summer water but tolerates drought as well once established putting it on that short list of plants for dry shade! Frost hardy to a remarkable -10F, USDA zone 6.
Saxifragaceae $12 4in

Schisandra propinqua var. sinensis
Shared with us years ago by plantsman Dan Hinkley, this small evergreen vine, to 6-8 ft, is replete with stems and petioles tinted burgundy and shiny, 3” leaves. The spring and summer flowers contribute another reddish element to the entire plant’s moody appearance. We have found it an attractive addition to the base of larger vines where woody stems are exposed and a useful spiller in containers. Suitable in both shade and sun with at least occasional summer water in either spot. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Magnoliaceae $14 3D

Schoenus pauciflorus Bog rush
A selected form of bog rush that is a particularly deep rich burgundy with copper tints and a very good texture, for border edge or container. Flowers on this New Zealand sedge are small and reddish purple, born on the tip ends of the spikes. Capable of withstanding inundation; otherwise prefers some water in sun or shade. Frost hardy to at least 10F, USDA zone 8.
Cyperaceae $24 2D

Scilla peruvianagiant squill
A Mediterranean bulb named for a South American country, botanists of the time having named it for The Peru, the ship that first brought bulbs to England. However it was named, this large flowered scilla is a huge hit in the early spring garden with 6-12" flower stalks of azure blue flowers resembling a hyacinth. Summer dormant with rosettes of strappy leaves emerging in fall. Full sun and well-drained soil. Drought tolerant though remains evergreen with summer water. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7.
Liliaceae $11 4in

Sedum reptans
Evergreen succulent from Mexico with slender leaves, yellow-green to darker green, in small rosettes to only a few inches tall but spreading as branches touch the ground and root. Leaves take on red tints in summer sun and darker red color in winter. A bold textured groundcover for sun to part shade and little summer water once established. Not as frost hardy as some, taking temperatures in the upper teens F, upper USDA zone 8.
Crassulaceae $7 4in

Sedum rubrotinctum jellybean sedum
A trailing Mexican sedum, sometimes called donkey tail for the stems that dangle as much as a foot. A succulent perennial, to 6-8" tall, with little leaves that become become rusty and rosy as they grow. Best in sun to light shade and well-drained soil with little summer water once established. Frost hardy to 25F, mid USDA zone 9, and lovely trailing over the sides of pots that can be moved indoors to a bright window where temperatures drop below.
Crassulaceae $4 4in

Sisyrinchium striatum 'Aunt May'
This gorgeous iris relative is coveted by collectors and it's easy to see why. Aunt May behaves herself in the garden unlike the rest of that side of the family. With mostly evergreen, creamy variegated foliage with dainty yellow flowers in mid summer this is a clumper that spreads out slowly. Nice accent, border, or wall plant. Stands out in any container combination. Easy and frost hardy to mid USDA zone 8.
Iridaceae $14 4D

Solanum capsicastrum 'Variegatum'False Jerusalem Cherry
Not only are the leaves of this tomato relative edged and streaked with creamy silver but the round, bright orange-red fruit also exhibits stripes and marbling as well. (Decorative but not to be eaten!) Actually found in Madeira rather than the holy land, the green form has been long cultivated as a house and garden plant, enduring in old Portland gardens from the Victorian era. We like to promote this as an excellent, hardy shrub, to 2 ft tall, with white flowers in late summer and striking berries holding for most of the winter. Sun to part shade with regular was. Can also be grown as a house plant. Frost hardy and easy in USDA zone 8.
Solanaceae $14 4D

Sophora prostrata 'Little Baby'
A smallish shrub from New Zealand with narrow wiry stems growing in a zigzag fashion, bearing pretty leaves with tiny leaflets. Golden orange pea flowers are produced late in the season. Best in full sun, lean soil and not much fertilizer. Most we’ve seen reach 4 ft or so in a Rastafarian tangle. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8, possibly into zone 7.
Fabaceae $14 4in

Stachys citrinaWoolly Betony
Low growing, fuzzy-leaved perennial, to only 6-8" tall and spreading to 1 ft wide. Leaves are lime-green, a good contrast with the yellow flowers on short spikes in summer. Said to be deer resistant as well. Full sun is best in any soil with at least regular summer water. Frost hardy to -30F, USDA zone 5.
Lamiaceae $11 4D

Sternbergia lutea autumn daffodil
A fall-bloomer, joining with autumn crocuses to provide cheerful fall color, this Mediterranean native has been cultivated in the US since colonial times. An amaryillis relation, in miniature, to only 6" tall or so, with bright yellow flowers in October. Best in bright, hot spots -- full sun or just a bit of shade -- but protected from winter winds and, preferably, from below freezing weather. Easily frost hardy in USDA zone 9 and above; possible with mulch and careful siting in USDA zone 8. Our clone from the University of California at Davis.
Amaryllidaceae $9 4D

Strobilanthes isophyllus bedding conehead
Old fashioned garden plant nearly lost to obscurity and brought back to us by the garden of Cistus friend Derick Pitman. To 3 ft or so, the leaves purple above and even pink purple underneath, topped with bluish flowers. In the garden the perfect plant for that under-the-Camellia spot. Deciduous in the low to mid 20F, resprouts from the low to mid teens -- so let's say USDA zone 8. Prefers reliable moisture. Fabulous container plant.
Acanthaceae $9 6in

Syneilesis x hybrida
One of the most ornate among the woodland composites, this summer growing, reasonably spreading perennial has symmetrically arranged leaves atop 18" stalks looking as if they were cut into doilies. Grown more for for its handsome foliage than its flower and makes a nice knitter among other woodland creatures. Sun to part shade with protection from hot afternoon sun and consistent moisture. Frost hardy USDA zone 6 or below.
Asteraceae $14 4D

Talbotia elegans False Dracena
One of the more peculiar South African asparagus relatives, this lovely perennial has rosette forming, deep green leaves, long and narrow on trailing stems, and star-shaped, white flowers with a sweet coconut scent we look forward to each spring. Makes a lovely shade to half sun container specimen or small-scale garden plant. Slow growing, it seems to take the dimmest conditions … or gardeners like us on occasion … in stride. Likes even moisture, especially in container, and accepts any well-drained soil. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 8 and above.
Velloziaceae $12 4D

Taxus x media 'Hicksii'
Particularly narrow growing yew, seldom reaching 8-10 ft tall, with a dense habit and lovely pink-bronze winter color. Can be lightly shorn for formal effect or used as screen or specimen. Happy in sun to shade though the winter color is more striking in bright light. Plants are somewhat drought tolerant especially once established but should be provided summer water for several years. This is a tough and handsome container plant. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6, possibly 5.
Taxaceae $12 4in

Tephrocactus articulatus - white spined clone
This opuntia relative, one of our collections taken years ago from northwestern Argentina, grows into pyramidal clumps of 18" or so, each pad nearly round with thick, white "crows feet" toward the tip of each one. Established plants display yellow flowers. A good dry garden species in USDA zone 8b or above with protection from excess winter moisture. (Note: If plants become exceedingly dry, pads easily disarticulate.)
Cactaceae $14 4D

Tephrocactus articulatus var. strobiliformis
Weird and wonderful opuntia relative from northwest Argentina, this form looking for all the world like a stack of conifer cones... or various other things the imagination might conjure. Lovers of heat, drought and sun. Decent drainage, summer water, winter drought with frost hardiness to a little below 20F, USDA zone 9 or so. Otherwise fabo container plant to amuse friends and frighten neighbors.
Cactaceae $16 4D

Tephrocactus articulatus var. strobiliformis pine-cone cactus
Weird and wonderful opuntia relative from northwest Argentina, this form looking for all the world like a stack of conifer cones... or various other things the imagination might conjure. Lovers of heat, drought and sun. Decent drainage, summer water, winter drought with frost hardiness to a little below 20F, USDA zone 9 or so. Otherwise fabo container plant to amuse friends and frighten neighbors.
Cactaceae $12 4D

Teucrium scorodonia 'Crispum'curly leaved germander
A plant for dry shade! and pretty with bright green leaves that are crinkled and ruffled on the edges as well as fuzzy and aromatic. Did we mention drought tolerant once established? Grown for the foliage but flowers in summer with spikes of creamy flowers flushed pink. These mounding perennials, to 12-18" tall and spreading into 2 ft colonies, enjoy sun (with some water) to shade -- a ground cover that looks good in any conditions. Frost hardy to at least USDA zone 6.
Lamiaceae $11 4D

Thalictrum ichangense Evening Star
A shimmering herbaceous jewel to add to the shady border or woodland garden. This silver-streaked thalictrum has tones of pewter, metallic plums, and bronzes on its leaves. Delicate flower puffs in pinks and pale lavenders are held above the leaves on wiry stems. Grows to approximately 12" x 12" and performs best in fertile, moisture retentive soil in shade to part shade. Frost hardy to USDA zone 4.
Ranunculaceae $14 4D

Toona sinensis 'Flamingo' Chinese mahogany
Lovely, tall, deciduous tree, native to China and much of Asia, with pinnate foliage emerging pink and aging through light yellow to bright green. Foliage is fragrant as are the lush, midsummer panicles of creamy white flowers. Peeling brown bark adds interest. Fast growing to 20+ ft in the garden, Enjoys heat, so sun to part shade with normal summer water. Frost hardy in USDA Zone 6.
Meliaceae $16 4in

Trachelospermum 'First Snow'Asian Star Jasmine
A Japanese selection and one of a small group of cultivars with dark-reddish leaves, especially with bright light or in cool weather, with new growth softening to nearly florescent pink and peach and cream -- and polka-dotted in contrasting colors! The plant, when grown to a large clump, vine, or cascade, indeed, looks as if it has been lightly frosted with snow. Drought tolerant though much more vigorous with reliable summer water and an occasional application of nutrients. Sun to shade with well-drained soil, though willing to growing in nearly concrete. Has sweetly scented flowers but seldom so when planted as a ground cover; only when allowed to climb or mound and it reaches its summit will the flowers appear. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Apocynaceae $14 4in

Trachelospermum asiaticum - bicolor variegated Asian Star Jasmine
Star jasmine with foliage beautifully streaked cream, green, and orange, this having been given by plantsman Barry Yinger to the JC Raulston Arboretum some years ago. Rather slow growing but a most attractive ground cover or container plant. Sun to part shade with occasional summer water. Has withstood winters below 0F, USDA zone 7.
Apocynaceae $15 4D

Trachelospermum asiaticum - NCSC, Japanese garden areaAsian star jasmine
This plant, now growing in the JC Raulston Arboretum in North Carolina, was given to us some years ago by JC himself as an unknown jasmine. Chances are it is part of a collection brought from Japan and placed there some years earlier by Barry Yinger. Whatever it's proper name, it's lovely, with long narrow leaves splashed cream, white, and coral -- some leaves nearly completely white -- all accented by dark stems. We use this frequently both in container and as a small ground cover planting. Flowers if allowed to grow to the top of a stone wall or other support. Provide summer water for best vigor. Has withstood at least two winters dipping into USDA zone 6.
Apocynaceae $13 4in

Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Goshiki'Asian star jasmine
Another wonderful star jasmine, an evergreen vine climbing or spreading on the ground to 6 ft, with leaves emerging pink and turning to cream and green. Fragrant yellow flowers add to the attraction on mature plants. Can be kept as a mounding shrub as well. Light shade is best with some summer water. Frost hardy to the mid teens F, USDA zone 8b.
Apocynaceae $15 4in

Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Hatsuyuki' Asian star jasmine
An Asian star jasmine, very like our T. ‘First Snow’ (the English translation of ‘Hatsuyuki’) but slower growing and shrubbier, so kept separate in order to distinguish these different habits. As with T. 'First Snow' the leaves emerge pinkish white adding green then turning mostly green with age, creating a wonderful color texture in the garden. Sun to part shade with summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. Also useful as an indoor plant
Apocynaceae $15 4in

Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Kiifu Chirimen'Asian Star Jasmine
Extremely congested Asian jasmine from the Miniature Plant Kingdom who used it mostly for bonsai & penjing work. It is a standout in the rock garden or in the open garden. Rarely flowering, its evergreen leaves are very handsome, especially with the slightly crinkled finish to them. Best in full to part sun with summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Apocynaceae $14 4in

Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Ogon Nishiki'Asian Star Jasmine
Ever-colorful vine or scrambler keeps growing along the ground, over a bank or up a trellis or tree, showing off the yellow-orange-red-green marbled patterns of the evergreen leaves. We like the way the fresh new growth unfolds in the spring and the way the old growth colors in response to winter cold and hope you do too. Adaptable in sun to part shade with regular summer moisture for faster growth. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7.
Apocynaceae $14 4in

Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Ogon' Asian star jasmine
Diminutive Asian jasmine, to only 2 ft wide by 6” tall -- can grow larger in time, with shiny gold leaves under 1" on orangey stems and, in spring, creamy, nearly yellow flowers. Wonderful for spilling over planters or as a small scale ground cover. Especially striking with black mondo grass, but isn’t everything? Does well with regular summer water in shade to full sun, though the colors can bleach in the brightest light. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8.
Apocynaceae $12 4in

Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Red Top'Asian Star Jasmine
Hardy flowering jasmine, evergreen, to 10 ft tall or so, for trailing or climbing a wall. This one with deep, reddish bronze new growth is deep reddish bronze and dark bronze winter color. White flowers have a sweet and creamy fragrance. Sun to part shade with summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Apocynaceae $12 3D

Trachelospermum jasminoides - marbled long leafAsian Star Jasmine
This star jasmine with a rather dull name, brought from Japan just a few years ago, has leaves up to 4" x 1", marbled and streaked jade green, silver, and cream, blushing to a beautiful pink and maroon during the winter months. Not at all dull! It is also free flowering, especially when somewhat root bound in a container or grown in bright light,with large white flowers more sweetly scented than the...hint-of-electrical-fire fragrance of some star jasmine flowers. (You know you are a plant geek when you can walk amongst a star jasmine collection and tell them apart by their individual fragrances. We must get out more.) Full sun to full shade where it might make a beautiful contrast under darker leaved, broad-leaved evergreens. Reasonably fertile soil with regular summer water. A few nutrients never hurt. Frost hardy in upper USDA zone 7.
Apocynaceae $8 4D

Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Madison'Star Jasmine
A selection several years ago from Madison, Georgia where several species, some thought to be quite frost hardy were killed in a sub 0F freeze. This free flowering selection has 1 1/2" rounded leaves, quite felty on the reverse, and nearly 1/2" palest yellow flowers in great abundance in spring through early summer, then sporadically through fall. Makes a fine ground cover or pot specimen. One plant near our Portland home graces a 2 1/2 story chimney and is drop-dead gorgeous. Full sun to partial shade; at home in full shade but flowers more sparsely. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7, possibly even brief dips into upper zone 6.
Apocynaceae $14 4D

Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Mandianum' Star Jasmine
From Bob McCartney in Aiken, South Carolina comes this exceptionally durable, hardy star jasmine, to 10-12 ft, with shiny, leathery, dark green leaves and fragrant, creamy flowers at the yellow edge of the species’ variation. Regular summer water in full sun for most fragrant bloom. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Apocynaceae $12 4D

Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Variegatum' Star Jasmine
A pretty and delicate form brought from England in 1997, this cultivar is as vigorous as the species but the leaves, measuring about 1/2" x 2", are margined and streaked creamy white and plants show a great propensity for climbing. Sweetly scented flowers, more white than cream, in great abundance but small. Makes a wonderful contrast with other clinging vines with dark green leaves, e.g., creeping figs (Ficus pumila) or climbing evergreen hydrangeas (Hydrangea seamanii). We have used this in dark courtyards with such plants as variegated forms of Fatsia japonica and variegated Aspidistra to great effect. Shade to sun, though not likely to flower in deepest shade. Fertile, well-watered soil preferably. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Apocynaceae $14 4in

Trachelospermum jasminoides 'Wilsonii' Star Jasmine
Tough evergreen vine, willing to climb, scramble, or spread into a nicely textured groundcover of dark green leaves with prominent, silvery veins. Very glossy and even more striking in summer when sprinkled with sweetly fragrant, creamy white, star-shaped flowers. In autumn the foliage takes on red coloration from slight tints to a complete color change. Sun is best with some summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8.
Apocynaceae $12 4in

Trachelospermum sp. - Cliff Parks Star Jasmine
Purchased years ago from the great nursery, Camellia Forest, this Cliff Parks collection, clearly related to T. jasminoides, has uniquely broad, triangular leaves with a slightly ruffled surface adding a particularly lovely texture in the garden or container. The flowers, creamy white with maybe a drop of yellow, have the typical star jasmine fragrance with a little drop of custard. We’ve enjoyed this plant for many years but have just now propagated it in enough numbers for you to enjoy as well. Drought tolerant, as are the other star jasmine, but prettier with some summer moisture. Sun or shade with best flowers in sun. Has taken USDA zone 7 winters in stride.
Apocynaceae $14 4D

Trachycarpus wagnerianusJapanese Temple Palm
To us the most exquisite of the Trachycarpus clan, found nearly 200 years ago in a temple in southern Japan and known only from cultivation. The stiff, symmetric leaves, looking as if shorn carefully at the ends, are lightly edged in white indumentum and often have most attractive pale blue undersides. Because of the rigidity of the leaves, they never tatter in high winds. Their most unique feature and what makes them most easily recognized is the several years spent resembling a miniature palm, as from very early on their fronds become "adult" -- even when only 4" or 5" across. Can be kept dwarf for many years but in the ground, with adequate summer water, they grow even more quickly than typical chusan palms, actually doubling in size for several years. Our 10 year old plants are now approaching 12-15 ft in height. (A small tidbit: though an incorrect entry, a palm book years ago confused T. wagnerianus with T. takil when actually they have little in common.) Best in bright sun. About as frost hardy as T. fortunei but shows damage less easily, e.g. no tattering. Our seed is produced from our own isolated plants. Woohoo! These plants already at least 4 years old and producing adult fronds. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7.
Arecaceae $22 4D

Tradescantia sillamontanacobweb spiderwort, gossamer plant
Fuzzy leaved spiderwort, appearing as if its pale green leaves were covered with...yes... spiderwebs. Low growing and spreading, to 10-12” x 18”, with striking magenta flowers in summer through autumn. Showy in containers or the garden. Found in the mountains of northern Mexico, they prefer sun and are easy growers, needing little water and generally thriving on neglect. Frost hardy in UDA zone 7 in a well-drained environment.
Commelinaceae $11 4D

Trillium angustipetalum narrow petal wake robin
Large trillium species, native in California and only slight beyond, this species related to the T. chloropetalum coast group in California and Oregon. To 15" tall, with wide, oval leaves, very horizontal, forming whorls up to 2 ft across, sometimes mottled in darker green. Spring flowers are showy, dark red-purple when new, with the long, narrow petals described by the name. Summer drought tolerant, these are happy in dappled shade to light shade. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Melanthiaceae $15 4in

Trillium kurabayashii - Leach, N. CA
Described from near the mouth of Oregon’s Rogue River in the early 70s and endemic to that region as a northernmost form or representative of T. chloropetalum. These seeds, second generation and now 4 year plants, grow to 18” with purple mottled leaves and brick red to occasionally orange-yellow flowers. Prefers summer dry in dappled shade but not difficult. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Melanthiaceae $18 4D

Urginea maritima Sea squill
Think of this as a eucomis with a serious attitude. Huge bulbs (up to 6" in diameter) throw up 5 ft tall, purple-scaped inflorescences with pale white to lavender flowers. Foliage grows from November on, going dormant in summer and blooming in August-September. Best in full sun with super drainage and very little summer water. Foliage is frost hardy to the low 20s and bulbs survive in upper USDA zone 8.
Liliaceae / Asparagaceae $12 6in

Vaccinium darrowii 'Rosa’s Blush'darrow's blueberry
Most blueberries have interesting fall color; this evergreen form has spring color as well. New leaves, narrow and fine-textured, emerge in reddish pink, changing to blue-green blushed pink before taking on their purple-blue fall color. Of course, they produce tasty blueberries, the pinkish, spring flowers developing into an early summer crop. Low-growing, possibly reaching 3 ft tall and wide, these natives of the sand dunes along the Gulf Coast, are drought tolerant in full sun to light shade and frost hardy in USDA zone 8.
Ericaceae $16 4D

Veronicastrum stenostachyum var. stenostachyum
Shared with us by plantsman Ted Stephens from an Asian excursion, this graceful, small vine, to about 6 ft with narrow, bronze-tinted, shiny, evergreen leaves, has late-season, small sprays of purple-blue flowers. For shade to partial sun; probably tolerant of full sun in damp climates. Certainly enjoys summer water. Perfect for places where wisteria just won’t fit or for accents in containers. Has been frost hardy to the bottom of USDA zone 8 and behaves as perennial in zone 7, quickly regrowing.
Plantaginaceae $14 4D

Viburnum arboricola HW 457343
Shared with us by plantsman Dan Hinkley we feel this narrowly upright plant to be one of the better examples of the genus that has come along in a while. Can be treated as a hedge or used as a small garden specimen tree to 18 -25 ft, adorned with large, shiny evergreen leaves, 4" wide x up to 6" long. In late spring to early summer flattened clusters of white flowers add to the interest. Ideal in dappled shade to full sun with occasional addition of water where summers are dry. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7b.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $18 4D

Viburnum cylindricum 'Roy Lancaster'
Shared with us by Portland’s Virginia Israelit, Roy Lancaster's selection of this Asian shrub is evergreen with, 6-10", leaves, long enough to appear drooping and waxy enough to write ones name in the blue, glaucous leaf surface. Cymes of small, white, sweetly scented flowers begin in June and continue, occasionally producing small, black fruit. Multi stemmed with a rounded form, these are typically 8-10 ft tall and wide in the garden though old, unpruned specimens can reach 15 ft tall. Best in sun to part shade in hottest areas with regular summer water. Frost hardy to 0F perhaps lower, USDA zone 7.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $16 4D

Viburnum foetidum var. quadrangularis
Handsome and rare evergreen viburnum from southern China. Burnished leaves emerge dark purple, turning a dark, shiny green upon maturity. Flowers appear in late spring in rounded clusters of white with purple anthers. Crimson fruit follows and last through the winter, good cheer for people and birds. A medium shrub, to 4-6 ft tall x 3-5 ft wide at maturity. Best in full to part sun with average summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $16 4in

Viburnum harryanumSir Harry Veitch's Viburnum
Diminutive species, to under 3-4 ft in five years, with arching branches and nearly round, spring-green leaves under 1/3". The flowers, in scale, are small and creamy white with small black berries late in season. At home in woodland gardens, but should be planted where large, falling leaves cannot smother it. Also at home in full sun and in containers with regular moisture and fertilization. Frost hardy in USDA zone 8; possibly upper USDA zone 7.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $14 4D

Viburnum opulus 'Aureum'golden leaf european cranberry bush
This smallish, striking viburnum has leaves that emerge bronze in spring, aging to dark yellow then turning green as summer approaches. Umbrels of white spring flowers are intensely fragrant and showy against the bright foliage. Bright red berries follow in late summer holding on as long as the birds allow. To a compact 4 ft tall x 5 ft wide, this viburnum makes a statement in the woodland garden in part shade to full sun in coastal areas. Expects regular summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 3.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $12 3D

Viburnum plicatum 'Cascade' doublefile Viburnum
Large and handsome, deciduous shrub, to 10 ft tall and up to 12 ft wide, this cultivar somewhat smaller than the species, horizontally branched with dark green leaves. A striking structure alone, and magnificent with the long-lasting, white, lace-cap-like flowers, up to 4" across in late spring to early summer, and the red fruit that follows. Full sun to part shade with consistent summer water for best appearance. Tolerant of seaside conditions and said to be deer resistant. Frost hardy to -30F, USDA zone 4.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $16 4D

Viburnum plicatum 'Kern’s Pink'Pink Sensation Viburnum
Beautifully layered deciduous shrub -- to 8 ft or so though easily kept smaller -- with ruffled leaves (think Lays potato chips) tinted rose-red and turning peachy to burgundy in fall. The pompom flowers are a rich cream to pink, a rarity in the viburnum world. Great for planting in light woodlands though perfectly at home in full sun if provided plenty of water. Hard to come by. Cold hardy to USDA zone 5.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $16 4D

Viburnum plicatum 'Ogon'
A dainty shrub, to about 6 ft with flattened, golden leaves of about 3” and charming cymes of white flowers in late spring. Orange-red fruits that arrive in late season add to the spectacle of florescent autumn color. We grow ours in dappled afternoon shade where it has been amazingly tolerant of direct sun. Requires summer water in dry places. Much slower growing than the species. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $14 2g

Viburnum propinquum Chinese viburnum
Truly striking, evergreen viburnum from central and western China, to 6-8 ft tall x 4-6 ft wide, with shiny, dark green leaves on reddish stems. Late spring/early summer flowers are greenish white cymes followed by blue to black fruit in autumn. Average summer water in full to part sun; a bit of afternoon shade in hottest climates. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. One of the best and a great substitute for the more common V. davidii.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $12 4D

Viburnum tinus var. robusta
A large form of this useful evergreen shrub -- the identification having been deduced from the old, old Oregon plant from which it was collected, suggesting an eventual, gargantuan size of 20 ft or more with the typical leaves of V. tinus and the large clusters, to 4-5", of early spring, pink and white flowers followed by incredible blue fruit. Lots of space is suggested along with sun to shade with average water at least until established. Can be used as a screen or pruned into a small standard tree for the garden. Frost hardy in USDA Zone 8.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $14 4D

Viburnum x pragense Prague viburnum
Fast-growing, multi stemmed, shrub to 6-10 ft and wide, perfect for an architectural specimen or screen with its dark green, puckery leaves, felty on the undersides. In spring, pink tinged buds open to umbels of white, spicey scented flowers followed by red berries turning shiny black. This cross between V. rhytidophyllum and V. utile prefers sun or part shade and regular summer water. Evergreen in USDA zone 7 and frost hardy in USDA zone 5. Prune after flowering before new buds form.
Caprifoliaceae / Adoxaceae $12 4in

Weigela 'Looymansii Aurea'
Glowing yellow foliage emerges in spring and gradually fades to spring green on this handsome, deciduous shrub, to 4-6 ft tall and as wide. Pink flowers brushed with purple appear in late spring and early summer adding yet more bright cheer. Bright light with protection from the hottest sun keeps the foliage fresh along with regular summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5.
Diervillaceae $13 4D

x Fatshedera lizei 'Angyo Star'
One of the most beautiful selections of this popular plant form, a bi-generic cross between fatsia and hedera creating a vining shrub that is trouble free and useful as a low climber to 5 ft, a container plant, or ground cover. This cultivar, initially from Japan and shared with us by plantsman Ted Stephens, has 5-6",evergreen leaves of deep green with clearly defined, creamy white margins. Though it has been successful in exceedingly dark places, happiest in light shade with supplemental summer water where dry. Should be frost hardy into the single digits, lower USDA zone 7.
Araliaceae $18 4D

x Pyracomeles vilmorinii
An interesting, arching cross between Pyracantha crenatoserrata and x Osteomeles subrotunda with small, lobed leaves, deeply cut, and profuse, white flowers followed by pink-red berries. Birds LOVE them. A 3-4 ft x 4-6 ft, semi-evergreen shrub for a sunny bit of your garden in moist, well-drained soil. Deciduous but frost hardy at the bottom of USDA zone 6 and possibly into zone 5.
Rosaceae $15 4D

x Sedeveria 'Jet Beads'jet beads stonecrop
This brightly colored hybrid of sedum and echeveria, to only 4" tall, has small, succulent leaves of bronze and green along stems creating a beaded effect and a striking bicolor texture. Foliage darkens to nearly black in cooler weather. Full sun to light shade in well-drained soil with little summer water necessary once established. Frost hardy to 25F, mid USDA zone 9. A fabulous addition to containers or troughs.
Crassulaceae $12 4in

Yucca aloifolia spanish bayonet
One of the larger hardy yucca, forming a trunk to 5-20 ft.... eventually. A great addition to the garden and fine in a container as well -- easy in both. Leaves are large, to 2 ft, sweeping, and sharply pointed. Mature plants produce spikes of white flowers tinged purple appear in early to mid summer. Full sun to half sun in well-drained soil. Easy. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7.
Agavaceae $14 4D

Yucca aloifolia 'Blue Boy'
A plant Sean knew at the Berkeley Botanic garden, now sometimes sold as Y. aloifolia 'Purpurea', with somewhat soft, arching leaves that are green with purplish highlights in summer, turning more red in winter temperatures. Very tropical. To 4-6 ft. Sun to part sun and well-drained, lean soil with only occasional summer water once established. Frost hardy to 15 to 20F, mid USDA zone 8. An outstanding pot plant.
Agavaceae $15 4D

Yucca angustissima 'South Side'
A Cistus introduction. This diminutive relative of Y. elata occurs mostly north of the Colorado River in the area fondly regarded as the Arizona strip. Our collection, from the Hualumpai area, was found hanging from cliffs over the Grand Canyon creating a small “tree” to about 3 ft with compact, symmetric heads of leaves adorned with silver filifers. Eventually offsets forming a small colony. A beautiful plant for repetition or for container specimen. And a bit easier to grow than its larger cousin. Particularly beautiful where the sun can backlight the foliage. Drought tolerant though summer water can speed growth in dry areas. Frost hardy in USDA zone 5.
Agavaceae $18 4D

Yucca baccataspanish bayonet, banana yucca
This trunk-forming yucca is a knockout in the landscape with curving trunks -- up to 10 per plant -- that snake out and stand up to 8 ft tall. Green leaves are stiff and decorated with longish filifers. Very architectural! In early summer, short flower stalks carry abundant white flowers. Full sun with excellent drainage, and, for best appearance, occasional summer water. Frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5 and possibly colder.
Agavaceae $15 4D

Yucca baccata var. vespertina 'Hualampai Blue'banana yucca
A new Cistus introduction. From our earliest days of botanically exploring the rich area from south western Utah to northern Arizona we’ve noticed the banana yucca, with forms there having upright, very blue leaves looking much like a misplaced sanseverria. This clone, from the south side of the Colorado river in Mojave County, is one of the bluest of the blue. Slowly offsetting clumps have upright leaves, to 4 ft or more, of pale blue adorned with curly filifers. The flowers, cream with nearly red bracts, rise to about 1/2 the leaf height ... but don’t hold your breath for the flowers. This is one of the prettiest yuccas we have come across. Tolerant of all kinds of miserable conditions including drought and poor soil but deserving decent drainage and little push of summer water in the driest spots. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4!
Agavaceae $16 6in

Yucca carnerosana - Mexican Collection tree yucca
A collection from South Neuvo Leon, Mexico, of this widespread tree yucca. To 10 ft or more in the garden with a thick trunk and rigid leaves to over 18" long and graced with curling white hairs along the margins as well as, in this form, a thick ivory colored edge that make the leaves look particularly striking. Best in full sun to only light dappled shade with occasional summer water for best appearance. Frost hardy to 5-10F, mid to upper USDA zone 7, possibly colder with protection.
Agavaceae $18 6in

Yucca elata SBHMPS 6733 - large form
As close to ‘It’ from the Addams Family as you can find in nature, this Cistus collected form is single-trunked and multi-branched yucca, to 10 ft tall and more, with long, hanging leaves and "gobs" of white flowers on tall stalks in summer. What's not to love? Sun, well-drained soil, and occasional summer water for best growth and appearance. Frost hardy to -10F, USDA zone 6, or lower.
Agavaceae $15 4in

Yucca faxoniana - Albuquerque
Another of the tough Yucca faxoniana, this one collected near Albuquerque, New Mexico with the same 3-4 ft rosettes of stiff, emerald-green leaves, each leaf adorned with symmetric, pearly cream to brown filifers. Quick to form full sized rosettes; slow to build a trunk that eventually reaches to 16 ft or more; and slow to branch. Fastest when given plenty of root room, free draining soil, and some supplemental water in very dry summer places. Excellent container plants. Prefer bright light. USDA zone 7 with some success in warm zone 6 with excellent drainage and protection from freezing winds.
Agavaceae $15 4D

Yucca filamentosa 'Bright Edge'variegated adam's needle
A handsome yucca, popular for its long, strappy and lax leaves, to 2-3 ft long, green-centered with gold margins and curly threads on the edges. Flowers are very showy, white on flower stalks to 12 ft tall. Excellent as a visual accent with leaf edges that aren’t sharp so it can line a path or border. Lean, well-drained soil in full sun with average summer water for best color, though tolerates some shade and some drought. Definitely frost hardy in USDA zone 7 and reportedly in USDA zone 5.
Agavaceae $14 4in

Yucca filamentosa 'Gold Stripe'
Discovered in the nursery as a striped sport of Y. filamentosa 'Gold Sword', each leaf adorned with very narrow creamy gold and blue green lines. Upright and vigorous to 18" in height and 3 ft or so across with, typically, 4 ft spikes of white flowers, most often in June. Full sun to dappled shade; otherwise extremely tolerant of any conditions thrown at it. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4.
Agavaceae $12 4D

Yucca filamentosa 'Hairy'
Dazzling form of this southeastern native selected at the JC Raulston Arboretum in the early 1990s and just now becoming available. Trunkless 3 ft rosettes of soft-textured but wide, blue tinted leaves are adorned with particularly large numbers of curly white threads, giving the entire plant a dazzling cobweb effect. Wonderful placed where backlighting occurs. One of the easiest to grow species in any soil, with bright light to dappled shade. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4.
Agavaceae $16 4D

Yucca filifera
Tree forming yucca and one of the most sculptural, the trunk eventually forming a swollen base and slowly branching. To upwards of 15 ft tall, with 2 ft rosettes of tightly held blue-green leaves covered with delicately intertwining filifers. Fabulous garden or container specimen for full sun and well-drained soil. Happy with summer moisture and winter drought, though quite versatile provided temperatures don't drop below 15F for extended periods. Cold hardy into the mid teens, mid-USDA zone 8; colder with exceptional drainage.
Agavaceae $16 6in

Yucca gloriosa 'Tiny Star'tiny star soapwort
Charming yucca, small and slow growing, to only 18" tall x 3 ft wide eventually, with variegated leaves, creamy yellow edged in green. Fits well into a rock garden. A selection of a southeastern US native, introduced from Japan in the 1970s by plantsman Barry Yinger, this form accepts the usual yucca conditions, sun to light shade, well-drained soil, and occasional water in summer for best appearance. So far, none have been seen to flower. Frost hardy to at least 0F, USDA zone 7.
Agavaceae $16 4D

Yucca gloriosa 'Tricolor'
One of the most useful of the trunk-forming, southeastern US native yuccas found growing from South Carolina all the way around to the Gulf side often within sea spray. With 2-3 ft rosettes of upwardly pointed leaves and trunks as high as 4 ft, this form has foliage variegated with cream and light yellow and infused with pinks especially with winter frost. Tolerant and even fond of average garden water and very long lived in container. Very good focal point for the garden. Has been quite happy and frost hardy to mid USDA zone 7.
Agavaceae $16 4D

Yucca linearifolia
One of the most beautiful yucca species, related to Y. rostrata. The 3 ft rosettes atop an eventual 3-8 ft trunk resemble the Australian grass trees, xanthorroea, or a dim version of Dasylirion quadrangularis. Leaves are flattened and somewhat triangular, spring-green to nearly turquoise, and flowers are white on stalks to 3 ft or so above the foliage. Full sun to part shade with good drainage and lean soil. Best with occasional summer water. Found in a few scattered localities, these are from north of Galleana, NL, Mexico, in a most diverse habitat. Though the southern habitat would suggest little frost tolerance, these have so far withstood 5F, mid USDA zone 7.
Agavaceae $18 4in

Yucca linearifolia 'Dusky Blue'
One of the most beautiful yucca species, related to Y. rostrata. The 3 ft rosettes atop an eventual 3-8' trunk resemble the Australian grass trees, Xanthorrhoea, or a dim version of Dasylirion quadrangularis. Flattened somewhat triangular leaves of spring green to nearly turquoise and white flowers to 3' or so above the rosette. From only a few scattered localities, these from north of Galleana, NL, Mexico, in a most diverse habitat. This form is particularly blue and quite vigorous adding 6-8" of trunk each year. Our plant often elicits comments from garden visitors. The southern habitat of the species would indicate lack of frost tolerance but plants have so far withstood 5F, mid USDA zone 7. Full sun to partial shade and summer water with, as always, well-drained soil.
Agavaceae $18 4D

Yucca nana
Exquisite and tiny yucca from the San Rafael Swell of southern Utah. The 6-8" rosettes, with their undulate, glaucous blue leaves edged white, seem as if a bunch of blue star fish were playing leap frog. Slowly multiplying to form a small colony. Spectacular in garden or in pots: we have placed ours in a stone wall. Would love bright light and free draining soil, preferably high in mineral content, but, really, not very fussy. Small 2-3 ft spikes of pearly white flowers appear on mature plants in May and June. Frost hardy in USDA zone 4, if not 3.
Agavaceae $16 4D

Yucca periculosa
From semi-arid slopes at mid to high elevations in southern Mexico, this small tree, to 20 ft or so and eventually branching, forms multiple rosettes of blue-green leaves, with evenly spaced, small filifers and outward facing flowers. For sun, lean soil, and dry places but enjoys an occasional summer thunderstorm. Has been unusually tolerant of frost for its southern latitude habitat, being reliable to about 20F, USDA zone 9, and a bit lower if winter dry. Otherwise a particularly nice container plant for many years, appearing like bonsai with its swollen caudex of a trunk.
Agavaceae $15 4D

Yucca recurvifolia 'Gold Ribbons'
A Cistus introduction. This large growing native, from the Carolinas to the Gulf in sandy spots, forms a stunning rosette of weeping leaves and eventually a trunk to 4-5 ft. The plant is useful in all forms but Y. recurvifolia ''Gold Ribbons', can serve as a striking focal point or container plant with its blue dusted leaves and wide center strip of deep creamy yellow. We have used it as a substitute for the more spectacular, gold variegated, New Zealand flax (Phormium) in exposed or particularly frosty areas. Did we say spectacular? Fairly dry to quite damp conditions; decent drainage a plus. Full sun to dappled shade. Not advisable to let too many leaves collect in the crown if in shade. USDA zone 7; 6 in protected spots.
Agavaceae $16 4D

Yucca recurvifolia 'Margaritaville'
Fabulous yucca, evergreen with soft foliage, variegated in creamy yellow striped green with green edges. Very showy. Slow growing, to 4 ft x 6 ft eventually, with tall spikes of ivory bell flowers in summer. Best in full sun to part shade with occasional summer water for best appearance. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7.
Agavaceae $18 4D

Yucca recurvifolia 'Marginata'
The soft leaves on this large, handsome yucca are green-centered and yellow-edged, eventually to 3-4 ft long and arching from a trunk that can reach over 3 ft tall. Expecially lovely with large trusses of open white flowers in summer reaching high above. Very successful in a container, but happy in the garden as well. Full sun is best. Drought tolerant but appreciates occasional summer water. Cold hardy in USDA zone 6b.
Agavaceae $18 4D

Yucca rigida
Bold textured relative of the stunningly gorgeous Yucca rostrata, spending its very long youth as a 2 to 3 ft rosette of 1" wide, silver-blue leaves, eventually forming trunks to 5 to even 8 ft with small candelabras of white flowers in summer at maturity. This species from northern Mexico requires full sun to dappled shade in the most deserty areas and a touch of additional water in the driest spots. Not particular about soil as long as its not sitting in water. Our plants are putting on about 6" of trunk each season. Frost hardy in warm USDA zone 7.
Agavaceae $16 6in

Yucca rostrata - Black Gap, TX collection
From the Big Bend region of Texas this colony, forming the northernmost habitat for the species and the only one in the United States, gives a beautiful cast to the entire landscape. Growing to over 10-12 ft, occasionally branching into small trees with 4-5 ft rosettes, they are truly a stunning creature and a perennial in my top 10 favorite plants. That says a lot! Ours are seed grown and beautiful as garden or pot specimen with many hundreds of leaves in each, rustling like grass off a thickened trunk…but wait, there’s more! As an already frost hardy yucca, this is a northern colony, plants of which have survived in USDA zone 5, making it one of the two frost hardiest tree yuccas.
Agavaceae $16 6in

Yucca rostrata 'Sapphire Skies'
A Cistus introduction. Although Yucca rostrata is one of the most gorgeous species available, and definitely one of our top 500 favorite plants, it is exceedingly slow to reproduce from offsets, seed is difficult to come by, and seedlings vary as to their...blue-osity. Yucca rostrata 'Sapphire Skies' is a selection from one of our collections in the early 90s in northern Mexico, out of a seed batch of stunning blue-leaved plants. Through the magic of tissue culture, we now have a reliable source. These vigorous young plants quickly form a 3 ft, multi-leaved rosette of nearly jade-blue, forming 3 to 4 ft plants in 7 or 8 years under good conditions, eventually to 10 ft or more. Excellent container plants, providing fine architecture, or repeated in the dry garden and looking of dusty blue fireworks from a distance. Particularly beautiful reflected in late afternoon/evening light. Full sun to dappled shade. Not particular about soil, excepting standing water. Some supplemental irrigation in dry summer places. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7; has been successful in zones 5 and 6 including the Denver Botanic Garden (Really!).
Agavaceae $16 4D

Yucca rupicolatwist leaf yucca
This large textured species from the Texas hill country consists of slowly clumping, undulant leaves, 1 to 2" wide, of deepest green. Particularly striking when planted with silver-blues such as festuccas or other blue tinted, rosette-forming plants. An easy care creature if provided well-drained soil, supplemental summer water in exceedingly dry places, and bright light, though at home in dappled shade if leaves do not collect in its crown. Frost hardy in USDA zone 6.
Agavaceae $16 6in

Yucca schottii 'Chiricahua High' Schott's Yucca, Moutain Yucca
A Cistus Introduction, our collection from near the summit of the Chiricahua Mts., a hardy yucca with very blue-gray leaves, to 3 ft long and sharply pointed, both stiff and more flexible than other "tree" yuccas. Eventually to 10 ft tall, single-trunked in youth to about 6 ft tall x 4 ft wide, then multi-trunked. Early summer flowers are white on tall stalks. For sun to part shade. An excellent garden species, both very drought tolerant and very frost hardy, accepting temperatures to -10F, USDA zone 6.
Agavaceae $14 4D

Yucca tehuacana
A most handsome, trunk-forming yucca from the Mexican state of Puebla, to an eventual 8-10 ft -- possibly more, but none of us will live that long. Narrow, blue-green leaves in abundance make a beautiful and most architectural rosette even before lift-off. Flowers are white tinted rose-pink on slightly leaning towers. Sun, lean soil, and some summer water to boost growth. Frost hardy to 10 to 15 F, low to mid USDA zone 8 if winter dry; otherwise protect below 15F. Fabulous container plant.
Agavaceae $16 6in

Yucca thompsonianaThompson's yucca
Charming tree yucca, reaching up to 8 ft tall x 4 ft wide with leaves that are stiff and powder blue with serrated margins and early summer flowers, white on tall stalks above the leaves. Related to and sometimes overlapping with Yucca rostrata though somewhat shorter and more branched, the multiple heads looking something like a miniature Joshua tree (Y. brevifolia). Full sun with good drainage and some summer water is best. Frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5 or even lower.
Agavaceae $15 4D

Yucca torreyitorrey's yucca, spanish dagger
Picturesque, very large yucca with leaves in excess of 4 ft, eventually forming a large shrub or small tree, usually single trunked, to 10 ft and taller with great age. Mature plants produce white bell flowers on 4 ft spikes, usually in spring but not every spring. Native from southwestern Texas to the mountains of Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, this represents a particularly blue-leaved form from south of the border. Best with lean soil and good drainage in full sun or very light shade. Drought tolerant but faster growing with occasional summer water. Frost hardy to 0F, USDA zone 7.
Agavaceae $16 6in

Yucca treculeana
Tall yucca, its trunk reaching to 12 ft with stiff bayonet-shaped leaves, to 2” wide and 3 ft long, arranged evenly around the thick trunk. Spectacular by itself but when it grows up, in say 4 to 5 years, a giant flower stalk appears adorned with white flowers. Stunning! Originating in the southwestern United States and in Mexico, these are frost hardy to USDA zone 7.
Agavaceae $16 6in

Zantedeschia aethiopica 'Hercules'Hercules Calla Lily
A truly large form of calla lily that we obtained from Western Hills Nursery in Occidental, CA, bigger in both leaves and flowers -- and, of course, better. Leaves are spotted with cream dots and 8-10”, white flowers appear in early spring on stalks up to 6 ft tall. Full sun to part shade with adequate summer water. Frost hardy in USDA zone 7. Bulbs can be mulched or lifted in colder climates.
Araceae $16 4D