Showing posts with label The Perennial Gardener. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Perennial Gardener. Show all posts

Monday, February 7, 2011

Color, YES!

Coming out of the winter doldrums any sign of color outdoors is exciting. Yes, a few crocus have been sighted, but what has made me really ecstatic are the hardy cyclamen plants I purchased in the fall from the Perennial Gardener, Olympia, Washington.

If you have never heard of cyclamen, chances are you have probably seen these Mediterranean members of the primrose family. Cyclamen are very popular flowering houseplants that are exceptionally beautiful and very striking. They are commonly sold in supermarkets, retail stores, and florist shops, and their immense popularity continues to grow.

Cyclamen are known for their beautiful deep green foliage adorned with interesting silver patterns and shading that resembles the finest marble. The foliage can be lobed, kidney-shaped, round, or heart-shaped, and it is just as lovely as the flowers perched above on long sturdy stems.

The flowers are a beautiful sight to behold. They look as if they have been turned inside out, and they boast various shades and intensities of red, pink, lavender, and white. It is no wonder why these beautiful houseplants are so popular.

The hardy cyclamens are just as lovely. Especially now when very little is blooming. Here are my lovelies:





I must admit to getting out the "sluggo" (slug and snail bait that will eliminate slugs and snails while posing no threat to pets or wildlife.) to allow these beauties to reach their full potential.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Vibrant Color

Every time on my way home from town, I pass by a locally owned nursery, The Perennial Gardener and wonder. Today, I stopped. Oh my gosh, what a lovely nursery with friendly, helpful staff! I had nothing particularly in mind, but I knew something would jump out at me.

After planting over a dozen packs of flower seeds, only two Cosmo plants have made it through our unusual summer. I want color! I was delighted by the vibrant colors of the petunia and the plants were huge.

Immediately when I arrived home, the petunias were planted. A few moments later before I could get the watering can, a butterfly came to enjoy their sweet nectar. What a treat!

Tiger Swallowtail on "Famous" Petunia


The other picks.....

"Jamboree Burgundy" Petunia


"Wave Purple" Petunia


The colors are so vibrant.

I cannot wait to see their colorful faces in the morning!