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Foliage with Finery.
Astilbe, Garden Spirea
Beautiful perennials for the garden, the astilbes, or garden spirea, available today are usually the result of hybridization. They are grown for their dark green, fernlike foliage and their long panicles (or spikes) of flowers that resemble feathery plumes. Color may be white, pink, lavender, or cranberry. Learn how to grow this versatile flower.
Portulaca, Moss Rose
Portulaca, or moss rose, is an annual flower with a profusion of sunny flower colors combined with its toughness to make it a natural for difficult garden sites and a great container plant. It will do even better under less difficult conditions. Moss roses grow as a mat of fleshy leaves with stems topped by flowers. Learn about portulaca.
Lobelia
Lobelia is an annual flower known for the intense blue provided by certain varieties, such as the sky blue flower. Lobelias have small, round leaves and flowers up to 1/2 inch in diameter. Lobelias are great flowers for rock gardens and among the best as container plants. Lobelia grows best in cool areas. Learn about lobelia.
Hosta, Plantain Lily
Hostas, or plantain lilies, are popular because they give color and texture to perennial gardens from mid-spring until mid-fall. Basal leaves come in various shades of green. Lilylike flowers in white and lavender bloom from late spring to late summer. Hostas are the backbone of shade gardens and make great potted plants. Learn how to grow hostas.
