Shrub Itea virginica 'Sprich' [sold as Little Henry™] [Dwarf Virginia Sweetspire] The Little Henry Virginia Sweetspire is a compact, dwarf cultivar that has excellent flowers and fall color. Quite drought and pH tolerant although best situated in moist areas with some acidity. Flowers best in full sun, but is shade tolerant. Pruning sometimes needed to maintain form, primarily for removal of wayward branches. Avoid pruning in late fall or winter as flowers form on previous season's wood. Susceptible to flea beetle and leaf spot.
Shrub Kalmia latifolia [Mountain-laurel] Mountain-laurel is an Ericaceous broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers in the spring. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering…
Shrub Kalmia latifolia 'Elf' [Elf Mountain-laurel] The Elf Mountain-laurel is a dwarf broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering for…
Shrub Kalmia latifolia 'Minuet' [Minuet Mountain-laurel] The Minuet Mountain-laurel is a dwarf broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering for…
Tree Kalopanax septemlobus [Castor Aralia] No disease or insect problems. Stout prickles could cause injury. Slight weediness via the seeds. Not common in commerce.
Shrub Kerria japonica [Japanese Kerria] Fairly adaptable to soils and microclimates, including considerable shade; best out of extremely sunny exposures. Occasionally winter-injured in the north, but otherwise relatively trouble-free. Suckers and spreads slowly. Needs occasional pruning to remove dead branches and renewal pruning to maintain form.
Shrub Kerria japonica 'Golden Guinea' [Golden Guinea Japanese Kerria] 'Golden Guinea' has crisply textured leaves and bears an abundance of large yellow flowers. Fairly adaptable to soils and microclimates, including considerable shade; best out of extremely sunny exposures. Occasionally winter-injured in the north, but otherwise relatively trouble-free. Suckers and spreads slowly. Needs occasional pruning to remove dead branches and renewal pruning to maintain form.
Tree Koelreuteria paniculata [Goldenraintree] Colorful small tree in bloom and interesting for its form. Tolerates heat, drought, wind, alkaline soils, and air pollution. Newly emerging leaves can be damaged by late spring freezes. Rather weak-wooded. Can be damaged or killed by –25 degrees F. Invasive in some parts of the country.
Shrub/Tree Lagerstroemia indica [Common Crapemyrtle] Can be grown as a tree or shrub. This species prefers hot sunny sites. For Zones 5 and 6, apply winter mulch to protect roots. Flower color ranges from white, pink, purple, or deep red that terminates the current year's growth. Long flowering period from July to September. Can have problems with powdery mildew.
Shrub Lavandula angustifolia [Common Lavender] Beautiful, fragrant purple flowers and foliage. Great plant for fine texture in the front landscape borders. Pruning to the ground every 3 to 4 years keeps the foliage full to the ground and produces uniform, fresh new growth.
