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Andropogon gerardii, the North American native grass known as “big bluestem” is about as tough a plant as you can grow. But there’s a lot more to its story.For centuries, this genus dominated the tallgrass prairie. It’s been largely replaced there by other grasses like Zeamays and Triticumaestivum, a.k.a. corn and wheat.Andropogon has found new homes. A go-to plant for reclaiming damaged soils, it helps keep out exotic invasives. But thanks to modern breeding and selection, it’s increasingly wel

Looking for a refreshing update on a traditional “backbone” perennial? You’ve arrived early – Fashionably Early! This hybrid series lives up to its name by blooming 2 – 3 weeks sooner than the typical tall phlox. All varieties rise to a user-friendly mid-border height. The rich green slender leaves are extremely resistant to powdery mildew, the bane of tall Phlox species. Height: 28 – 32”. Hardy in Zones 4 – 8‘Fashionably Early Crystal’PP28679 Flower clusters emerge pale lavender, then mel

Even Our Soft Side is Pretty ToughWe’re proud to be your go-to source for sturdy ornamental grasses and hardy herbaceous perennials. But we also have a tender spot for tender plants. Two of our favorites have something uncommon in common:Truly red flowers! Ruellia elegans Ragin’ Cajun™ (Texas petunia)Vivid, eye-catching red red flowers, and a lot of ‘em, on a cheerful chassis of deceptively-delicate looking rich green foliage. Don’t be fooled: Ragin’ Cajun won a “FlameProof Award

About the Rock Star AwardOur Rock Star award honors Emerald Coast Growers employees who demonstrate a sustained high level of performance and inspire others.This month, for just the second time in the history of the award, we have a tie. The two employees who rose to the top of the balloting work together so well, we literally couldn’t give just one of them the award they both richly deserve. Jose Hernandez came to work for ECG in 2007. Two years later, Keith Eads joined the team. The term

“Russian Sage” Is Neither? Nyet So Fast!We reported recently that Perovskia, a.k.a. Russian sage, is neither Russian, nor a sage. Turns out we were only half right.Horticulturist and sharp-eyed reader Mark Deacon, of Cincinnati Technical & Community College, updated us. It’s still not Russian, but it has gotten smarter.The perennial formerly known as Perovskia is native to Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tibet. It’s not from Russia, with or without love. But while we weren’t watching, those never-sati