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Hakonechloa macraMost ornamental grasses thrive in full sun. But most gardens have areas the sun just can’t find. Must those places remain grassless? Fortunately, no!The shaded landscape can also employ and enjoy the graceful form and movement that only grasses bring. The go-to genus: Hakonechloa, Japanese forest grass.This sinuous beauty grows as water flows, welling up and cascading down in supple layers of pendant, bamboo-like leaves. It’s happiest in shade, dappled or full. Northern growers

Isn’t that an oxymoron? Not when it’s…Lobelia cardinalis ‘Black Truffle’ PP25687Truly red flowers are a rare commodity in the perennial market. Lobelia cardinalis is one of those rarities, with brilliant red, red blooms. And ‘Black Truffle’ brings a head-turning look to the species with rich, deep, dark foliage.New leaves emerge glossy black, maturing to shiny maroon. The beautiful bright red blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds, contrast dazzlingly with the luscious foliage, and make a l

Known variously as creeping phlox or moss phlox, early-flowering Phlox subulata is a welcome harbinger of spring. Its cheerful blooms blanket slopes and spill over walls.It might be hard to think spring, or plan for it, when autumn chores beckon. But this really is the time to do so.Planted in fall, P. subulata has lots of time to form a vigorous root mass. Soon, cold nights and short days will shut down vegetative growth. That tough evergreen foliage will hunker down and wait patiently. Sleep t

Don’t get us wrong: We love Calamagrostis ‘Karl Foerster’, the first grass named Perennial Plant of the Year. It’s every bit as versatile as the polymath whose name it proudly bears.‘Karl Foerster’ is one of those plants that makes a gardener or designer look like a genius. But the genus has a lighter side. To be more specific: Yipes! Stripes!Calamagrostis xacutiflora‘Overdam’The original variegated form, ‘Overdam’ looks much like ‘Karl Foerster’, but with creamy white vertical stripes

About the Rock Star AwardOur Rock Star award honors ECG employees who demonstrate a sustained high level of performance and inspire others. Juan Dominguez is this month's award recipient. Juan was praised by his peers for his ability to tackle tough jobs and work well under pressure. “Juan is a key essential part of the grass production team. He can follow instructions, lead groups, stick, cut, drive equipment, gather stock, and the list goes on. Juan brings a sense of relief to everyone wh