I purchased Sacred Drummer in 2010 and then last year dug and divided it, gave some away, and then replanted it. Even though I love the blooms, height and sturdy scapes, low bud count and fading may be its demise in my garden as I continue to evaluate and downsize to gain space for a few others that I am definitely keeping.
It has multiplied well in my garden, not too fast or too slow. But after 13 years in the same spot, the clump needed dividing. Probably should have been divided 3 years ago. The color is one that fades throughout the day, but on an overcast day or in the morning shade is gorgeous. It blooms for about 2 weeks in mid-June in my zone 6b garden and I've never seen rust on it.
Branching and bud count pics. Usually 2 or 3-way with about 10 buds. First pic in 2012 and in 2021 not much different. Maybe not being in full sun is why.
The color changes dramatically throughout the day, starting out as a cool pink to peachy-pink with a darker pink eye, then goes to peach with a washed out eye as the sun comes around and the day heats up. But it is an EMO (early morning opener), so it is very photogenic in the mornings. It is always fully open by 7am.
June 27, 2018 - 10:30AM
June 25, 2021 8AM
The color fades throughout the day, even as early as 1pm depending on the heat. The ends begin to curl as it does not have a very thick substance.
June 16, 2021 - 1PM
May 24, 2012 - 5:30PM
It is 30" tall and the scapes hold up the blooms well over the foliage. Here are a few clump pictures from the last few years to show the range of colors on different days.
June 20, 2020 - 7AM
Same day, at 9AM. Sun is filtering through and soon will be hitting the clump.
June 27, 2020 - 7AM
June 18, 2022 - 7AM
June 26, 2022 - 3:30PM
