Common name:Autumn Joy Sedum
Botanical name:Sedum 'Autumn Joy'
Noted as the finest of all upright Sedums, Autumn Joy Sedum produces from its sturdy stems, a variety of flower heads with an umbrella-like shape, whose color changes from pink to a rosy-red shade. This plant loses its leaves in the winter.
Common name:Nandina, Heavenly Bamboo
Botanical name:Nandina domestica
Nandina domestica is a graceful upright shrub that grows from 3'-6' in height. It gets its name from its bamboo-like growth habit. When thinned from the center it bears a remarkable resemblance to bamboo. It is best used in groups. It can be used in a shaded patio or out in a shrub border with full sun. An interesting feature of Heavenly Bamboo is the bronze color in the new growth when planted in full sun. It also bears clusters of white flowers in the spring.
Common name:Maki Podocarpus, Shrubby Yew
Botanical name:Podocarpus macrophyllus maki
'Maki' is a slow growing shrub that is densely covered with small, needle like, waxy, evergreen leaves. It reaches 8'-10' tall and 3'-4' wide, but can be trimmed to the size needed. It prefers full to part sun, regular watering and more in hot summer months. It is can be espaliered and is attractive in containers or used in narrow areas. It can be used in formal or Asian themed gardens. Very reliable and dependable.
Common name:Myer's Asparagus
Botanical name:Asparagus densiflorus 'Myers'
An evergreen groundcover, the 'Myers' also makes an excellent hanging basket plant when larger in size. Its formal looking fronds have an even, spiral arrangement of leaflets. It is damaged by severe frosts, and looks best with at least occasional watering. -Monterey Bay Nursery
Designer: Debbie Synder-Brooks
Photographer: Debbie Snyder-Brooks
Practice grass-cycling by leaving short grass clippings on lawns after mowing, so that nutrients and organic matter are returned to the soil.
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.
Develop healthy soil for plants that are vigorous and naturally pest-resistant.