design

Epimediums with a Twist

May 2, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 5 Comments Tags: combinations, conifers, deciduous trees, design, foliage, grasses, groundcover, perennials, shrubs, spring, trees

Golden yellow grasses (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’) and variegated iris (Iris x robusta ‘Gerald Derby’) enhance the spring interest

I’m always looking for new ways to pair old favorites. I typically combine the heart shaped leaves of Bishop’s hat (Epimedium sp.) with lacy ferns and bold hostas for example. But a recent visit to the inspiring garden of Mitch Evans in Kirkland, WA showed me all sorts of exciting new possibilities to get me out of my design rut!

Play to ephemeral color

Enjoy the moment

Epimedium grandiflorum ’Lilafee’ has got the most beautiful purple-flushed foliage with lilac-purple flowers held daintily like dancing stars. Placing in front of Gerald Derby iris (Iris x robusta ‘Gerald Derby’) highlights the exciting purple flush of the iris foliage, most clearly visible in spring. Although both the flowers and iris foliage color are short term effects this inspired pairing shows the importance of planning for such special moments.

Consider shade loving conifers

An unexpected combination with a conifer in part shade

Who would have thought of putting a conifer and Epimedium together? My mind immediately says its not possible since generally conifers need sun and Epimedium prefers shade. This is where knowing your plants comes in – and clearly Mitch does. The golden ‘Tom Thumb’ spruce (Picea orientalis ‘Tom Thumb’) will scorch in full sun and prefers dappled light making it a perfect companion to Epimedium x Amber Queen . I love the way the sunset colored flowers dance overhead like miniature Turk’s cap lilies almost teasing the conifer. After all aren’t Epimedium usually considered groundcovers yet here it is lauding it over its cowering partner!

Smoky purple hellebores look even better with a hazy backdrop of Epimedium x Frohnleiten

Frohnleiten

Color echo and contrast

This pine-hellebore-Epimedum trio made me smile. The sunny yellow flowers of Epimedium x Frohnleiten, one of my personal favorites, always brightens a spring day. The dark, sultry flowers of the hellebore echo the deeper tones of the Epimedium foliage while the pine casts enough shade for both to thrive, adding a fresh green to the color palette as well as a softer texture.

Your challenge question!

So what would you combine this ruby leafed beauty (an Epimedium hybrid) with?

A combination worth getting down on your hands and knees for!

What about a finely textured red leafed maple and buttery-yellow primroses?

Wherever I looked in Mitch’s garden there were carefully painted vignettes; special garden moments waiting to be discovered.

I for one will be referring to these images time and again when I need a dose of fresh design inspiration.

Ready to go shopping?

My sincere thanks to Mitch for letting me ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ in his garden

The Grass with Multiple Personalities

Apr 7, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 10 Comments Tags: cacti, combinations, design, grasses, path, perennials

A beauty or a beast? A star or a supporter? You decide.

Considered invasive in many parts of the country Mexican feather grass (Stipa tenuissima syn. Nasella tenuissima) is merely ‘friendly’ in Seattle area gardens. Certainly it self seeds, but it does so politely creating serendipitous plant partnerships that I wish I could claim as my design!

I consider it an invaluable asset to my own garden as it fills many roles.

Four season interest.

Being evergreen this offers winter interest, when many of my other favorite grasses have tucked themselves under a blanket of compost. Whether planted as a drift with other grasses or as a simple monoculture, there is no denying that this wispy grass adds softness to the stark landscape during the colder months of the year.

Oscar worthy as supporting actor

Sometimes bolder plant forms need an ethereal background to showcase their strength. I love the way Mexican feather grass offers a hazy curtain behind my ‘Ascot Rainbow’ spurge (Euphorbia). It keeps the focus on the star with its gauzy texture allowing light to filter through.

Nominee for best actor

With so many great plants in this border (right and at top of post) how can a humble grass be taken seriously as a lead player? By virtue of it being at the very front where it creates a picture frame which in itself is a work of art. Just look how beautifully it sets the scene on this early spring day, enhancing the warm tones of the emerging spirea foliage foliage while leading the eye to the cinnamon colored peeling bark of a young paperbark maple (Acer griseum) in the middle ground and drifts of daffodils beyond.

Perfect for pathways

Grasses are wonderful for edging pathways, delicately brushing bare ankles and toes as though walking through a meadow. None are gentler than this grass and its billowing form blurs the boundary between garden border and flagstone pathway with ease.

Wildlife refuge

Tucked away behind the waving strands of grass, a flock of birds jumped and jived around this little fountain for over half an hour! Safe from view (mostly!), they played their game unhindered. I am sure the seeds would be of interest later in the year also.

Extreme contrasts

Want the ultimate plant to contrast with the grass texture and form? What about this prickly pear? You can’t get much more extreme than this!

Cultural information

USDA hardiness; 6-10

Size; 2′ tall and wide as a loose fountain

Light; full sun or light shade

Water; average to dry.

So what is this grass to you? The ultimate invasive thug to be avoided at all costs? If so I’d love to know what you have found as a great substitute?

Or has this chameleon found a spot in your garden?

Friend or foe? You decide.

For another great design using this grass enjoy this combination featured in my new book Fine Foliage

A lesson in abundance – Filoli Garden

Mar 28, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 4 Comments Tags: bulbs, cut flowers, design, spring

There are tulips – and there are Tulips. As I strolled around the magnificent Filoli Garden in San Francisco last week there was no doubt that these were TULIPS.

For the most part these had been planted in simple, terracotta colored pots so that the flamboyant flowers could be brought out for display when each variety reached its peak. Both the tulips and I reveled in the warm spring sunshine – life seemed to slow down.

Pots were clustered together on steps, in doorways and used to flank pathways. Every garden had its own color scheme which the tulip displays highlighted.

Where tulips were planted in the ground they were corralled by manicured boxwood hedges, vibrant under the dappled canopy of the flowering cherry trees.

But this is a grand estate garden with a team of 14 full time horticulturalists, numerous student interns and more than 100 volunteers. What can the typical home gardener take away from this?

I see my lesson as being abundance. Rather than planting just a few tulips in my mixed containers I like the idea of filling simple pots with just one tulip variety, and waiting to display them until they are in full bloom. Perhaps a succession of colors in different pots? Maybe I can just plant them in black nursery pots and slip these inside my decorative pots when the moment is right?

The other thing I learned? It’s OK to sit once in a while and simply enjoy them.

Join in the Foliage Fest! (& giveaway)

Mar 11, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 10 Comments Tags: annuals, books, combinations, conifers, container design, deciduous trees, design, foliage, grasses, Monrovia, perennials, shrubs, trees, water gardens

The past couple of weeks have been a true whirlwind since my book FINE FOLIAGE, co-authored with Christina Salwitz was launched at the 2013 Northwest Flower and Garden Show, Seattle.

My first talk at the show – a demonstration style seminar called ‘Spotlight on Foliage’ was standing room only and by the end of that afternoon the University Bookstore had sold out of our book. Thankfully Christina and I had ordered plenty for ourselves so were able to loan them enough to get them through the rest of the show. Tough problem to have, right?!

Since then the books have been selling nationwide (and thanks to my Mum also in England) with great reviews on both sides of The Pond! Both Christina and I have received lovely emails from total strangers who have purchased Fine Foliage and wanted to say how much they are enjoying it and to thank us for the inspiration we have given them.

So what’s so special about it? Here’s what others are saying;

“Fine Foliage is a visual treat that will inspire you with dazzling combinations for containers and gardens. Karen Chapman and Christina Salwitz explain why each combination works – bringing artistic design within easy reach of all gardeners. A great user-friendly resource.”

–Debra Prinzing, author of The 50 Mile Bouquet and Slow Flowers

Garden lovers, you now have the secret for creating the landscapes of your dreams – the ones you see in magazines and wonder “how do those designers DO THAT?”. Christina Salwitz and Karen Chapman show you how to look beyond the flowers and introduce you to the real stars of the horticultural world – LEAVES! Foliage is more than that green stuff around the flowers, it is what divides a good garden from an incredible one, and now you have a guide for how to use its power!

-Ivette Soler, Garden designer and author of “The Edible Front Yard“

“The photos in this book are both breathtaking and inspiring…” Barb S., Seattle

“I highly recommend this book for all gardeners and garden lovers…” Suzanne K., Redmond

Read our Amazon reviews

As winter transitions to spring we seem to naturally gravitate to the local nurseries and garden centers, filling our carts with all that is fragrant and flowery. Yet a few weeks from now those impulse buys won’t look quite so impressive if you haven’t paid careful attention to using foliage as the backbone of your combinations.

The solution? Take a copy of Fine Foliage to the nursery with you – it will fit nicely into your purse (UK translation = handbag). Being a high quality hardback it will withstand the rigors of many such trips! Use it as a springboard for new ideas, ask the nursery staff to help you find your favorites or use it as a reference against which to test those flowers you are drawn to!

For example the gorgeous purple and deep red pasque flowers (Pulsatilla sp.) that are in bloom right now would look so pretty with a tricolor sage. Or maybe add a froth of lemon thyme to those dwarf daffodils? Back that up with some blue grasses and a dwarf golden conifer and you have the makings of a great container!

ENTER TO WIN A FREE COPY!

What do I win?
One signed copy of Fine Foliage
Where?
On our blog www.fine-foliage.com
When?
Right now!! Drawing will take place at midnight Saturday March 16th PST and the book mailed out first thing Monday.
What do I do to enter?
Head over to www.fine-foliage.com and follow the link to sign up for our blog. It’s that easy! Everyone that is registered will be entered into a random drawing. The winner will be notified by email within 24 hours and the winners name will also be posted on the blog itself.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNER shariwick165@gmail.com! You have seen sent an email – please let us have your mailing address and Fine Foliage will be on its way!

Didn’t win? Never mind;

Signed copies can be ordered here using credit card or PayPal

Also available at bookstores, nurseries and online.

Share the love of gardening with your friends and family. Fine Foliage would make a beautiful gift for any occasion; new home, birthday, anniversary….and Mother’s Day is just around the corner on May 12th.

Both Christina and I are also available to give presentations at your garden clubs, nurseries or other event to celebrate Fine Foliage . You will find us listed on the Great Garden Speakers website; read reviews of our previous talks and get more details of what we offer.

Do tell me which is your favorite combination from the book and share your own ideas for great foliage.

Skinny Conifers for Tight Spaces

Feb 11, 2013 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 12 Comments Tags: conifers, container design, deer, design, foliage, Monrovia

The columnar habit of this Japanese plum yew (front right) does not obstruct entry into this small courtyard.

Narrow side gardens are the reality for many suburban homes but die hard gardeners don’t need to sacrifice height and beauty just because their footprint is small. Look for trees, shrubs and perennials that have a columnar shape without growing too wide. Even in larger gardens there is a need for ‘punctuation’ points and these skinny but interesting conifers might be just the answer (and the perfect excuse to visit the nursery).

‘The huggable ‘Wissel’s Saguaro’ false cypress doesn’t block a path

‘Wissel’s Saguaro’ false cypress (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Wissel’s Saguaro’) is a conifer with attitude! Blue-green ‘arms’ beg for a hug and it certainly deserves a little extra love for the way it adds structure, height, color and living sculpture to the narrowest of spaces. Enjoy a young plant in a container for a few years before transplanting it to a well-drained spot in the garden. In full sun it will grow~ 8′ in 10 years with an ultimate height of 18-20′ but just 2′ wide. Hardy in zones 6-8

‘Blue Arrow’ juniper. Photo credit; Monrovia

‘Blue Arrow’ juniper (Juniperus virginiana ‘Blue Arrow’). The dusky blue shade of this juniper makes it a colorful, evergreen addition to any garden – perfect for narrow screens or as garden accents. Use it where you’d love an Italian cypress but don’t have the climate. It grows to 12-15’ tall and 2’wide (although truthfully I’ve seen specimens a little wider than 3’). Deer resistant and drought tolerant once established, this is hardy in zones 4-9.

‘Empire’ false cypress has a subtle yellow variegation

‘Empire’ false cypress, (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Empire’). A dwarf, columnar conifer with a subtle yellow variegation; a beauty in containers or rock gardens. Typical height is just 4’ tall and 18” wide. Prefers full sun and is hardy in zones 4-9

‘Snow White’ Port Orchard cedar has white spring growth which matures to blue green (Left on photo)

‘Snow White’ Port Orchard cedar (Chamaecyparis lawsoniana ‘Snow White’) has a natural teardrop shape with soft blue-green foliage which still retains a whisper of the creamy white spring growth in fall! This species is particularly susceptible to root rot and the fungus Phytophthora if not in well-drained soil so look for those grafted onto disease resistant root stock e.g. Monrovia’s Guardian series. ‘Snow White’ grows to 6’ tall and 18” wide in 10 years, loves full sun and is hardy in zones 6-9

DeGroot’s Spire arborvitae. Photo credit; Longfellow Garden Center

‘DeGroot’s Spire’ arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘DeGroot’s Spire) is an improvement on the typical arborvitae of the ‘landscaper’s special’ variety. The rich dark green foliage takes on a purple cast in winter and has nicely twisted foliage which will tolerate light shearing making it a good hedging plant. It copes with wet soils, will grow in part shade or full sun and grows slowly to 20’ tall and 4’ wide. Cold hardy to zone 3 and happy to zone 8.

Columnar Scotch pine adds a columnar focal point in a small garden

Columnar Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris ‘Fastigiata’) is a narrow form of the beautifully soft and fluffy Scotch pine. The twisted blue green needles make a beautiful backdrop for shades of silver or purple leaved plants. This is hardy in zones 3-7 (possibly zone 2) where it will grow 25-30’ tall but just 6-8’ wide (the species is 25-30’ wide). Part or full sun.

Japanese plum yew looks fabulous in a container

Columnar Japanese plum yew (Cephalotaxus harringtonia ‘Fastigiata’) is one of the few conifers which thrives in part or even full shade. Its dark blue-green needles are longer that yew (Taxus sp.). I use it in shady containers where it slowly grows to about 4’ tall and 18” wide. In the landscape it is more likely to be 6’ tall and up to 4’ wide.. Hardy in zones 6-9

The Winter Garden – a berry bounty

Nov 27, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 6 Comments Tags: berries, birds, container design, design, foliage, grasses, perennials, shrubs, wildlife, winter

Big fat clusters of berries adorn the branches of Parney cotoneaster - a favorite February treat for robins

A winter garden doesn’t just ‘happen’, it takes planning. Most of us visit nurseries earlier in the year when we are seduced into buying ephemeral spring beauties, colorful summer perennials and fall foliage. It takes serious restraint to look beyond those and seek plants that offer great bark, interesting silhouettes, winter flowers and bright berries.

As I strolled around our garden recently on a bright but chilly day I was pleasantly surprised to discover I had in fact put into practice what I encourage others to do! In every part of the garden from the woodland to wilder open spaces there were interesting vignettes with clusters of juicy berries adding seasonal decoration.

Come and walk around the garden with me and I’ll show you a few which are adding jewel like color to our winter garden.

Parney cotoneaster can become a large shrub - give it room to spread

Parney cotoneaster (Cotoneaster lacteus) is a fabulous evergreen shrub for full sun or partial shade. (It will need partial shade in hotter climates). Its long arching branches are dripping with clusters of vivid red fruit- although they would be a little more heavily laden if the deer hadn’t nibbled some of the spring flowers… Come February they will attract flocks of robins to feast on the bounty. The foliage itself is dark green with felted, silvery undersides which catches the light when branches are brushed by a breeze. Give this room to spread to 10’ tall and 8’ wide to enjoy its full beauty although it can be pruned to keep smaller. Zones 6-10b

A PNW native, red chokeberry makes a dazzling fall and winter display with vibrant foliage and red berries

Red chokeberry (Aronia arbutifolia). When we purchased this property in late October 2009 this 6’ tall native shrub was displaying its fiery crimson foliage, almost hiding the red berries. It is planted in partial shade where it is happily spreading by suckers to form a thicket arching over the stream. At this time of year when seen from the house it is framed by an archway of golden foliage from the pear trees. Chokeberry gets its name from the observation that birds avoid this bitter fruit, which suits me fine as I get to enjoy the winter color! Plant it in constantly moist or wet soil in sun or partial shade where it has room to spread, although it is not difficult to remove unwanted canes. It does have somewhat of an unkempt habit so I would recommend this as a background shrub or in a transitional space between the garden and wilder lands beyond – but be sure to site it where you can see it during the winter.

'Eichholz' cotoneaster has stiff woody stems and evergreen foliage - masses of berries are a bonus

Eichholz cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri ‘Eichholz’). Our stream is fed by three seasonal water sources – a natural aquifer which bubbles up from the stream bed, a neighboring seasonal pond and a pipe which drains water from an area of our garden. This pipe is at the bottom of a 4’ deep French drain so that as much water as possible percolates down and leaches into the surrounding soil – what reaches the pipe is in excess of that saturation point. I needed something to hide the pipe at the head of the stream and chose this evergreen shrub whose stiff woody branches will spread laterally to form an 8’ wide weed suppressing groundcover. At this time of year it is a mass of scarlet berries which add another layer of interest. This likes moisture retentive but well-drained soil in full sun and is hardy in zones 5-8

Chartreuse foliage of this snowberry is eye catching from spring to late fall and makes a great contrast to the hot pink berries

I can never resist something new especially if it has fabulous foliage, which is why ‘Blade of Sun’ snowberry (Symphoricarpos chenaultii ‘Blade of Sun’) leapt into my arms on a summer visit to a nursery! Low spreading branches of chartreuse foliage have been a wonderful addition to our woodland garden and it has been remarkably tolerant of abuse. Although the stream bank where I planted it does not completely dry out, I only watered it two or three times between July and October and it has been fine. It promises to have lots of pink/purple berries in winter and although there are only a scattered few this year I’m optimistic that next year will be more abundant. This is a deciduous shrub yet the foliage is still persisting even after several frosts. It prefers dappled shade where it will grow to 12-18” tall and 2’ wide. Zones 4-9

As leaves fall from barberries the twiggy structure and elongated berries are revealed

There are several other berry bearing perennials and shrubs in our garden – ‘Red Beauty’ holly (Ilex x ‘Rutzan’), honeysuckle, Pernettya (Pernettya mucronata), barberries (Berberis cv), wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’), and ‘Coral Beauty ‘ cotoneaster (Cotoneaster dammeri) – enough for both the wildlife and ourselves to enjoy. The latter three are fabulous additions to container gardens also.

Others shrubs you might enjoy;

Beautyberry (Callicarpa sp) – purple

Snowberry (Symphoricarpos sp.) – white or pink

Other hollies (Ilex sp) – red, orange or yellow

Firethorn (Pyracantha sp.) – red, orange or yellow

Viburnum species – red, black or blue

Heavenly bamboo (Nandina domestica)

The Winter Garden – beautiful bark

Nov 20, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 13 Comments Tags: bark, container design, deciduous trees, design, shrubs, winter

'Lions head' maple is best known for its tufty foliage reminiscent of a lions mane but the smooth olive green bark is equally beautiful

As leaves fall from the trees it is tempting to consider them merely naked statues in the landscape until they are clothed once again in foliage. It is also tempting to stay inside by the fire rather than explore the garden! Yet the texture and color of bark and stems can add significant interest to the landscape at this time of year. Careful placement will allow you to enjoy them from your armchair but can also be good motivation to find your boots and scarf to take a closer look. It’s amazing how even a brief stroll around the garden can lift the spirits.

Here are some of my favorite trees and shrubs that exhibit interesting bark for both the landscape and containers.

Look for a multi-trunked river birch specimen to make the most of the striking bark

River birch (Betula nigra), often multi stemmed, has shaggy bark which peels off in papery curls, revealing the salmon beneath.‘Heritage’ is one of the best full size cultivars. Although it does not need wet soil it copes well with it, making it a good choice for my garden! We have planted a group of three in a low spot which fills with water every winter. For smaller gardens the cultivar ‘Little Fox’ (syn. ‘Little King’) may be a better option, growing to 12-15’ rather than towering to 40’ like the species. Full sun or light shade. Hardy in zones 4-9

The muted colors of Stewartia resemble an elegant patchwork quilt

The vivid lightning bolt patterns in shades of grey, orange and red sets the exfoliating bark of Japanese stewartia (Stewartia pseudocamellia) apart. This special tree has many virtues – it is relatively pest and disease free, has exquisite white camellia-like blossoms in mid-summer when few other trees are in flower, and greets autumn with shades of red and purple. A gorgeous specimen tree growing to 40’ tall and 20’ wide. Does best with some afternoon shade. Zones 5-8

Everyone who has a paperbark maple quickly declares it a favorite

A recent addition to our garden has been the paperbark maple (Acer griseum). The striking cinnamon colored peeling bark is a standout in the winter landscape, especially emerging from a blanket of snow. At just 18’ tall and 15’ wide it is suitable for smaller landscapes where its fresh green foliage can be enjoyed in spring and summer before turning to vivid sunset shades in fall. It copes well with sandy or clay soil, full sun or dappled shade and is hardy in zones 4-8.

As the last few leaves fall to the ground the colorful stems of 'Coppertina' ninebark become visible

I love ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius cultivars) almost as much as our deer! With foliage in shades of green, gold, copper or deep burgundy and sizes ranging from 4’ to 10’ I can enjoy many of these deciduous shrubs in containers or the border.

The larger cultivars such as ‘Diablo’ and ‘Coppertina’ can be left to grow freely or cut down and thinned out to keep to a smaller size. They are remarkably adaptable, coping well with moist conditions in either full sun or partial shade. Clusters of white spring flowers are followed by glossy red berries and fall color ranges from rich mahogany (‘Diablo’ and ‘Little Devil’) to orange (Dart’s Gold). There are therefore plenty of reasons to use them in your garden, but they have another great attribute – the outer brown bark of these multi-trunked shrubs peels away to reveal strips of creamy white beneath.

Include the compact ‘Little Devil’ in a container year round and you can enjoy these colorful branches throughout the winter. In the landscape larger specimens can be best appreciated if they are fronted by herbaceous perennials so that their winter glory is revealed when the perennials die down. Zones 3-8

Bright green bark with corky bumps! The 'Arakawa' Japanese maple has four season interest

Japanese maples are well known for their fall color but many also have striking bark, the coral bark maple (Acer palmatum ‘Sango-kaku’) being perhaps the best known. Two others I enjoy in my own garden are the ‘Lions head’ maple (Acer shishigashira) with its smooth olive green bark, so beautiful against the yellow and orange fall foliage and a welcome addition to my woodland garden. I also have ‘Arakawa’ (Acer palmatum ‘Arakawa’) which means ’rough bark’ – an unusual corky appearance which presents a new texture.

Despite deer and flooding our weeping willow is thriving and brings great color to the winter landscape

The first tree I planted in this garden was a golden niobe willow (Salix alba ‘Tristis’). I was still coming to terms with the unwelcome surprise that our new garden was a 5 acre lake in winter and wondering how on earth I could realize my dream of a beautiful garden. Sheer stubbornness dictated that this was going to be a case of ‘right plant, right place’ so I looked for a tree that could cope with several inches of standing water for most of the winter. Not only that but it had to deal with saturated soil for most of spring before it turned into concrete each summer. Amazingly this weeping willow has come through and is doing great. Actually it is somewhat ‘poodled’ thanks to our deer who eat everything they can reach giving it a ridiculous haircut that looks like a monks tonsure. If you can get over the somewhat truncated ‘weeping’ part then you will appreciate the bright yellow stems and bark in the winter which contrast well against the dark evergreen backdrop.

Others trees and shrubs with great bark;

Shrub dogwoods (red, yellow or multi-colored stems)

‘Little Gem’ vine maple (dark red)

‘Fine Line’ buckthorn (brown with tiny white spots)

Snake bark maple (green with snakeskin markings)

Paperbark cherry (glossy mahogany)

What trees and shrubs do you have in your garden with interesting bark and branches?

Helleborus Gold Collection® – the best of the best

Nov 14, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 8 Comments Tags: combinations, container design, deer, design, fall, foliage, perennials, Skagit Gardens

The magical colors of Merlin. Photo credit; Skagit Gardens

As the last of the colorful leaves fall from the trees and blue skies turn gray – especially here in Seattle, I find myself yearning for color. Spring is many months away – I need something NOW and the new Lenten roses (Helleborus) fill that gap beautifully.

Helleborus Gold Collection® grown by Skagit Gardens has revolutionized the hellebore world. Blooming at a younger age than older hybrids and offering an unbelievably long bloom time these really do earn their gold star status. Another breakthrough is that each of the large flowers faces outwards so that you can appreciate the beauty without getting on your hands and knees! They are also fuss free, deer resistant, evergreen and shade tolerant. What more can you ask? Here are three personal favorites.

Plant 'Pink Frost' where the light can stream through from behind to really appreciate its delicate beauty

Top of the list has to be Pink Frost (Helleborus x ballardiae Gold Collection® Pink Frost). This award winning variety was introduced about three years ago and I absolutely love it. I use this massed in the landscape as well as in shade containers where they bloom from November to March. (Even though Skagit says these bloom mid-January onwards I have found them to be covered in fat pink buds held high on their red stems in early November with flowering starting shortly thereafter). At any one time the silvery green foliage is adorned with flowers in shades of pink, burgundy and deep red. Clumps spread nicely to form 2’ wide mounds.

Foliage and flowers are equally beautiful on Merlin. Photo credit; Skagit Gardens

The new kid on the hellebore block is Merlin (Helleborus x ballardiae Gold Collection® Merlin). I met this magical perennial recently at the Garden Writer’s Association symposium in Tucson and was struck by the outward facing blooms which opened pale pink, transitioning through rose before maturing to a rich cranberry. The foliage and stems are much darker than those of ‘Pink Frost’ and are truly spectacular. This would be worth growing as a foliage plant even if it never flowered! A little smaller than ‘Pink Frost’, this beauty grows about 15” wide.

Cinnamon Snow will add sparkle to the shade garden. Photo credit; Skagit Gardens

Cinnamon Snow (Helleborus x ballardiae Gold Collection® Cinnamon Snow) is one of the earliest to bloom which makes it a great addition when I am replanting containers in fall. Pink buds open creamy white, each petal brushed lightly with shades of rose and warm cinnamon. This delicious confection reminds me of ‘grown up’ ice cream – the sort you only buy as a treat when the children aren’t at home! The foliage is a dark green; a perfect backdrop that allows the flowers to really sparkle. This robust hellebore grows to 2’ wide and blooms from December – February according to the grower but once again I have found these to be in bud as early as late October.

How to grow

Rich, moisture retentive soil
Part or full shade (bloom best in morning sun and afternoon shade or dappled shade all day)
Mulch in summer to retain moisture
Trim off older leaves in spring to freshen it up.

Cinnamon Snow works equally well in containers and the landscape. Photo credit; Skagit Gardens

Companion ideas

Landscape – Mass at the base of a coral bark maple (Acer p. ‘Sango Kaku) to enhance the winter interest. The Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘All Gold’) could then be added to form bright waterfalls of gold from spring-fall, contrasting beautifully with the hellebore foliage

Containers – partner with pink hued coral bells (Heuchera) such as ‘Georgia Peach’ or ‘Berry Smoothie’ to repeat the pink tones and perhaps a green and white variegated grass to add finer texture. In this container a burgundy Cordyline and evergreen fern have been used as companions.

Which is your favorite hellebore? Plant all three and you’ll have color from now until March!

Houzz – fresh design inspiration

Oct 29, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 4 Comments Tags: design, Houzz

Inspiration for fall color - Sumac 'Tiger Eyes'

I need to choose tile for our bathroom. Selecting a color palette was easy – soft earth tones. I could even make a quick decision on the material – either porcelain or ceramic since as much as I love natural stone it is more maintenance than I want.

After that comes the hard part – the design. Tiles are available in every size from 1″ to 24″ square as well as rectangular and hexagonal options. The surface can be matte, glossy, smooth or textured. And then there are the accent tiles! Listellos, mosaics, decorative inserts all in multiple size and color options. And how to put them together without making our bathroom look like a circus tent?

Contemporary Bathroom design by San Francisco Design-build Custom Kitchens by John Wilkins Inc

So what has this got to do with gardening? Any design process can be overwhelming whether selecting plants or tile. With a seemingly infinite number of plants to choose from where do you start? Where can you go for inspiration?

Books, magazines and blogs are a great starting point and I use them to write notes of my preferences. Of course I then have to make sense of my notes; assuming I can find them weeks later.

I’ve introduced you to Landscaping Network before and find that to be a fast way to pull up lots of options for patios or fire pits for example.

For this project I have found myself turning frequently to the website Houzz (pronounced how-zz)

This is a great way to build up ‘idea books‘, find professional articles and get product information, all for free and from the comfort of your own home.

Looking for ideas for a shade garden? Use the search box at the top of the screen, type shade+garden and select photos to find thousands of high quality images as well as related links. See the screenshot below to give you an idea.

See something you like? You don’t need to sign up simply to browse but to start your own collection of idea books you will. The sign up box is at the top of the page. (Mine says Karen’s Houzz since I am signed in).

Just click or tap on the +idea book sign to add it to your own idea book – either a new one or one you have already started. Incidentally these idea books can be kept private (a great designer-client option) or public which means we all benefit from one another’s research. You can add notes to these images too such as ‘love the orange flowers’ or you can leave a question for the contributor such as ‘what are those orange flowers?’

Regional garden writers submit checklists so that gardeners know what should be done in their gardens that month. Many also write about a Great Design Plant, often one they have firsthand experience of, providing not just cultural information but also design ideas and planting tips.

Since many writers are designers you can also see some of their projects, read reviews of their work and get in touch with them to discuss your own garden plans!

Traditional Landscape design by Santa Barbara Landscape Architect Margie Grace – Grace Design Associates

The only down side is that truthfully I find the website can be frustrating to navigate. It is a huge site and you have to go through multiple loops to find say the regional garden guide for the Mid-West if you use their menus. Houzz knows this and are working on streamlining the site. In the meantime I find the search box works the best for me.

How did I find out about them? A couple of months ago they invited me to be the Pacific Northwest regional garden writer, giving me the opportunity to inspire others, offer practical ideas, introduce you to some of my favorite plants and keep you on track with your garden to-do list. I’ll be writing additional articles from time to time including one on Holiday containers which will publish in time for thanksgiving.

So whether you need tile or trees, check out Houzz today and you’ll be hooked!

Website; www.houzz.com

Stark Silhouettes – a lesson from the desert

Oct 22, 2012 By Karen Chapman in Uncategorized 15 Comments Tags: cacti, combinations, design, drought tolerant, foliage, succulents

I had the opportunity recently to visit Tucson, Arizona and was fascinated to see a landscape so different from the lush Pacific Northwest. Instead of ferns and mossy glades beneath towering evergreens the arid desert landscape was filled with cacti, succulents and other drought tolerant specimens piercing the rocky terrain.

Walking around the hotel grounds offered a lesson in landscape design in itself!

To some this stark landscape seemed barren yet I found the juxtaposition of the different architectural shapes fascinating. When I design gardens and plant combinations I pay great attention to the details of foliage to create a layered tapestry. I also love to work with color – high contrast and monochromatic being my two favorite schemes. The desert plantscape was an exciting study in monochromatic planting with shades of silvery-green and steel blue predominating and it was also a lesson in appreciating the structural quality of each plant.

Dramatic spires of cacti stand out in sharp relief against the vast blue Arizona sky

While in Tucson I heard a wonderful presentation by Scott Calhoun, a local and highly regarded landscape designer on Hot Gardens – designing in the south west. Whereas I am often asked to create a sense of enclosure, a hidden oasis for my clients, Scott designs for a sense of openness and transparency. He aims to mimic the surrounding landscape in his gardens, framing views of the surrounding mountains. It is a principle called ‘borrowed landscape’ where the garden seems to extend into the distance and boundaries are obscured.

A simple vignette of an Agave against a weathered boulder draws attention to the ground plane

Rather than creating screening he looks for ways to add stark silhouettes against the sky – emphasizing the wider landscape or vista. Closer at hand he creates vignettes of plant material, boulders wildflowers and native grasses.

Stunning in its simplicity. The powdery blue Agave highlights the blue wall with a bold golden yellow bench providing high contrast.

My favorite trip was to a wonderful private garden where the homeowner had adapted these principles to an urban environment. He had built the most beautiful stucco walls, each painted a different bold color and then set the plants against this unadorned backdrop. Sunlight cast shadows on these walls creating a sense of greater depth allowing the form of each cactus to be silhouetted without distraction from background plants.

This monochromatic scheme looks striking when the silhouette of each plant is showcased against the stucco wall

Although the plants themselves were of a similar hue, by placing them against walls of cobalt blue, yellow ochre, terracotta and olive green each specimen ‘popped’.

Each plant was well spaced from its neighbor – a practical necessity in the desert since they are competing for water. Yet this allowed the graphical shape of each plant to be appreciated in isolation creating an almost minimalistic look.

Barrel cactus with its remarkable radial pattern of spines

Short spines, long spines, orange spines, ghostly white spines. Paddle shapes, columnar pickets, pointed arrows and mounds. The variety was still there in the details although at first glance the desert may seem like a moonscape to those of us used to a completely different environment.

Whereas in the PNW we might leave snags of tall trees for wildlife and to simply lend a sculptural statement, in Tucson we saw many cacti skeletons creating the same effect

This trip provided a wonderful opportunity to learn about different design techniques and many of those ideas can be employed in our own gardens. Creating silhouettes using the contorted branching structures of trees and shrubs for example. Or a stand of vertical grasses against the solid backdrop of evergreen trees can have the same dramatic effect as the cacti against the sky. If you would like more ideas on designing silhouettes, especially valuable in the winter landscape of more temperate climates, you may enjoy this article I wrote a while ago.

A simple container, well placed against a colorful backdrop allows the light to cast strong shadows

No matter where you live, it’s still all about the details.

This trip was organized by the Garden Writers Association

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