| I am considering violas for the early spring expectin them to last until around mayish I need a tropical plant to go through the heat |
| Most tropical plants won't make it through our winters, but here are two you can count on: Raja Puri banana with big tropical leaves that ripple in the wind, extremely fast growth, and giant reddish purple flowers. Red star hibiscus (Hibiscus coccineus) loves it when it's hot and steamy and wet. So you can welcome midsummer's hot nights and almost daily rainfall ? conditions that will wilt many common American flowers. But unlike the Asian hibiscus commonly sold at Big Box stores, our native hibiscus persists year after year, regardless of the winter. Some annuals and perennials with a tropical look include Columbine: Blooms late in springtime; moist, rich soil and sun to light shade preferred; wide variety of colors available. False blue indigo: Blooms late in springtime; grows to three or four feet tall, in bush form; drainable soil and sun preferred; indigo blue flowers most common, though other colors are available. Fragrant Solomon's seal: Blooms late in springtime; moist soil and shade or wooded areas preferred; flowers on long, arching stems. Torch lily: Blooms late in springtime; spike leaves; grows to three feet tall; drainable soil and sun preferred; various colors available. Rose campion: Blooms late in springtime; grows to three feet tall; drainable soil and sun preferred; generally rose, white or pink available. You can also plant cannas, iris and salvia in your garden. Best wishes with your garden! |
