Hey there, fellow green thumbs and plant enthusiasts! If you’ve been following our adventures here at Lakeview, you’re probably well aware of two indisputable facts about us. First, Alec and I are unapologetic plant geeks—yes, there’s an official definition, and yes, we fit the bill to a T. And second, we’re like kids in a candy store when it comes to new plant introductions. I mean, who wouldn’t get giddy over the latest leafy or flowery debutante on the garden scene?
Now, condensing my plant ramblings into a blog post is akin to trying to stuff a giant sequoia into a pot—it’s a challenge, but I’m here for it. Our summer escapades involve everything from ogling over display gardens to cozying up with our plant suppliers and flipping through catalogs like they’re the latest bestselling novels. And why, you might ask? To handpick the crème de la crème of plants for your gardens, of course!
We’re big fans of Proven Winners and the Handpicked For You programs—not just because they sound fancy, but because they’ve got the plant prowess to back it up. Reliable, proven genetics that won’t leave you weeping over wilted blooms.
Ever found yourself drooling over plants in botanical gardens or those elusive secret gardens, wishing you could, ahem, “borrow” a specimen? Well, grab your plant wish list because here are 5 perennials that are sure to make your garden the envy of the neighborhood and have your gardening buddies turning a lovely shade of chlorophyll green.
- The Showstopper: Firefly Yarrow – Imagine a plant so dazzling, even the butterflies queue up for a glimpse. Firefly Yarrow is that superstar. Perfect for adding a pop of color and drama to any spot that’s feeling a bit “meh.”
- The Hummingbird Whisperer: Salvia Color Spires – Want to throw a garden party for your local hummingbirds? Meant to Bee Hyssop is your go-to DJ, with blooms that keep the beats going from spring through fall.
- The Shade Lover: Hosta Autumn Frost – Got a shady spot that’s been a bit neglected? Hosta Autumn Frost will light it up like a disco ball, little sunlight required. It’s like the plant version of a night owl, thriving where others fear to tread. One of the very best hostas for spring color, its frosty blue and radiant gold edged leaves will light up your landscape and containers with exuberant color.
- The Ground Cover Guru: Sedum Angelina – If you’re looking to cover ground faster than gossip spreads at a garden club meeting, [Plant Name] is your ally. It’s like laying down a living carpet that says, “Look at me, I’m fabulous!” The striking needle-shaped foliage is a brilliant golden yellow color and this Sedum is super heat tolerantThe Perennial Party Animal: Luminary ‘Prismatic Pink’ Phlox paniculata
- Last but not least, this new tall Phlox, Luminary Prismatic Pink is the life of the party in any garden setting. It blooms with such enthusiasm, you’d think every day is Mardi Gras. – Every year I swear I’m not buying any more plants for my garden and then the lists of new varieties start showing up in my inbox and I can’t help myself.
So, there you have it—five perennials that are bound to make your garden the talk of the town (for all the right reasons). Swing by Lakeview, where Alec, Tracy and I will be waiting to geek out over these plant superstars with you. And remember, in the world of gardening, being called a “plant geek” is the highest form of flattery!
Happy planting, and may your garden be a reflection of your wildest, most beautiful dreams (with a little help from our leafy friends).
The Plant Geeks at Lakeview
