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The “aster disaster” rocked the perennial world over 20 years ago when that venerable genus was torn asunder.Those darned taxonomists shipped all “New World” asters off to tongue-twisting new genera like Eurybia, Doellingeria and, in the case of our two favorites, Symphiotrichum.Many professionals snubbed the neologisms and kept right on calling them “asters.” That’s where you’ll find them in our catalog, with Symphiotrichum second. Because that’s where our customers look for them. By any name,

Ever since ‘Walker’s Low’ was named Perennial Plant of the Year back in 2007, “catmint” has become increasingly popular as a sturdy, low-maintenance ornamental.We grow 8 varieties of this interesting genus. Our latest addition: ‘Purrsian Blue’.  This Midwestern-bred variety forms neatly mounded clumps of tiny, toothy, aromatic leaves. The foliage is all but hidden by the prolific bloom of periwinkle blue flowers with dark purple calyxes, produced in abundance from early summer into early

Looking to add some stellar selections to your perennial lineup? You’re in the right place. These proven all-stars always come shining through. Echinacea purpurea Ruby Star A superior, classic, large-flowered selection. Carmine-red petals remain horizontal, not reflexed, for a more colorful show than the straight species. “Purple coneflower” is beloved by birds, bees and butterflies. Goldfinches especially love to perch and dine on the spiky central seed cones after the petals drop. Hei

“Why do you think I have this outrageous accent?”GaillardiaA backbone of the sunny border, “blanket flower” is loved world-wide for its array of bright, cheerful, often bicolor blooms. Butterflies and goldfinches are also big fans.Multiple petals on daisy-like flowers feature toothy fluted tips. Puffy gold/red centers remain attractive and interesting even after petals drop. Flower colors cluster in the warm end of the spectrum – fitting for this American native, which is most widespread in the

We’re all for wildlife. But as gardeners and landscapers know, deer and rabbits can wreak havoc on a beautiful border. So, how do you keep Bambi and Bugs at bay while welcoming pollinators? Plant Monarda! Pollinators love this charming native American genus – and so will your customers!But don’t settle for just any Monarda: We offer two long-blooming, mildew-resistant series that come in a variety of colors. M. didyma Balmy™ SeriesBred for compact habit, heavy flowering from spring throug