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Bay State Perennial Farm is known for its wide selection of perennials. Plants are listed alphabetically by their latin names and can be located by clicking on the first letter of the plant name in the alphabet above.
Primula denticulata blue
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PAEONIA (Garden Peony)
Lactiflora and hybrid double peonies
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‘Angel Cheeks’ Double soft pink mounding petals, red flecks, sturdy stems, disease resistant, blooms early season. 26” high.
‘Coral Charm’ Deep coral buds open lighter peach with gold anthers, semi-double or double, early blooming, 36”.
‘Eden’s Perfume’ One of the most fragrant and beautiful varieties we offer. 4-7in., double, rose-pink blossoms with a complementary layer of cream-colored petals. 24-34ins. tall. Blooms in June.
‘Festiva Maxima’ A classic double white peony introduced in 1851 and still widely favored by gardeners. Blooms late spring to early summer. 36” tall.
‘Kansas’ Beautiful double, bright, rosy red flowers carried high on exceptionally strong stems. Excellent for cutting. A Gold Medal Winner. 34" tall. Blooms early to mid spring.
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‘Lady Orchid’ Double lavender-pink, strong stems, late season, 30” tall.
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‘Love’s Touch’ New Double soft pink flowers with just a hint of golden stamens in the center. Fragrant. 26" tall, souble, blooms mid-late season.
‘Marshmallow Button’ New Double white bomb-type flowers that extend upward from a base of white petals with only a hint of yellow. The growtuh habit is compact with strong flower stems. Fragrant. 24" tall, bomb-type, blooms mid season.
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‘Pink Hawaiian Coral’ Fragrant, simi-double coral flowers blending to soft pink at the tips. 36ins. tall, strong stems. Blooms in June. A beautiful peony that always gets lots of attention in our border.
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‘Raspberry Sundae’ Huge, full blossoms up to 6ins. across are delightfully fragrant and great for cutting. Pale pink guard petals surround a fluffy vanilla to blush pink center flushed deeper pink on top. 30ins. tall. Blooms early summer.
Intersectional Peonies
Intersectional peonies are the result of crossing herbaceous and woody or tree peonies. They retain the best qualities of both parents including: large flowers in unique colors, strong weather resistant stems, longer bloom time, extreme winter hardiness, and increased vigor. Plants should not be pruned to the ground in fall as lower portions of the stem carry next years buds. Buds will also initiate from the crown as do herbaceous peonies.
‘Bartzella’ Huge, 6-8”, semi-double to double, pastel yellow flowers with a small rose purple flare in the center and a pronounced sweet scent. Blossoms are neatly spaced on the top and sides of the sturdy clump of healthy green, tree peony-like foliage. 3’ tall, with best bloom in full sun with rich, evenly moist but well drained soil, pH around neutral.
Japanese and Single Peonies
‘Burma Joy’ New Single, true red flowers with bright yellow stamens and short, strong flower stems that present the flowers beautifully in the garden and in the vase. 26” tall. Early blooming.
‘Butter Bowl’ New Rose pink petals surrounding a center of bright butter yellow anthers. 32” tall, single flowered, mid season blooming.
‘Doreen’ New 30-40" tall, single, dark pink flowers, with yellow fringed center, blooming late May-late June.
‘Charles Burgess’ Fire engine red flowers with golden yellow centers. Absolutely glows on a spring evening. 30” tall, japanese type, blooms mid season.
‘Foxtrot’New Single flowers of deep magenta with a small golden center. The plant habit is short, compact, and very heavy blooming. Slightly fragrant. 22” high, early.
‘Soft Salmon Joy’ New Beautifully cupped soft shell pink blossoms over deep green foliage. Single, 28" high, blooms mid season.
Tree Paeonia (suffruiticosa)
Paeonia suffruiticosa Tree Peony We’ve grouped the tree peonies with their herbaceous cousins to eliminate unnecessary clicking back and forth between web pages and because it just seems to make sense to present them together. But make no mistake, tree peonies do have stems of real wood. Plants seldom get much taller than 4ft., appreciate a rich, slightly basic, moist, well-drained soil, and do very well in light afternoon shade. Full sun is certainly okay, but here water becomes more of an issue. Pruning should be avoided unless plants become misshapen, at which time they may be cut back to a foot or so to encourage the development of new shoots. This should not be done routinely, and actually, is best avoided altogether unless plants become an unshapely mess. These are not difficult plants to grow when provided with conditions even remotely approaching ideal. We’ve had our tree peony for many years and I defy anyone to accuse us of pampering it. When we remember to do it, a little lime, fertilizer and compost get turned under in spring. For this meager effort we’re rewarded every year with two weeks of huge, beautiful blooms during late spring/early summer. Zone 4.    
suffruiticosa ‘Shimanishiki Semidouble, two-toned reddish purple flowers striped with white. 4-5' tall. Blooms late spring. Tree peonies are real shrubs with woody stems that should receive only occasional cosmetic pruning and should never be cut back to the ground as are herbaceous or garden peonies. Generally, it's best to avoid pruning altogether. To reach their spectacular blooming potential, tree peonies require rich, moist but well drained soil and an annual applications of a balanced fertilizer and/or compost, as well as a handful of lime. Full sun to very light shade. And, don't be intimidated by their exotic beauty,- they're easy to grow! Zone4.
suffruiticosa ‘Yoshinogawa’ Very large, semidouble, ruffly white to blush pink flowers with magenta brush strokes at the base. 5' tall. Blooms mid to late spring. Tree peonies are real shrubs with woody stems that should receive only occasional cosmetic pruning and should never be cut back to the ground as are herbaceous or garden peonies. Generally, it's best to avoid pruning altogether. To reach their spectacular blooming potential, tree peonies require rich, moist but well drained soil and an annual applications of a balanced fertilizer and/or compost, as well as a handful of lime. Full sun to very light shade. And, don't be intimidated by their exotic beauty,- they're easy to grow! Zone4.
tree peonies by color;
suffruiticosa Lavender
suffruiticosa Red
suffruiticosa White
suffruiticosa Yellow/Orange
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Papaver nudicaule ‘Wonderland Mixture’ The foliage develops low 4" high rosettes from which rise narrow and fragile-looking yet sturdy 10" stems each carrying a single flower with the special, crinkled tissue paper texture that endears poppies to so many gardeners. Flowers display a range of colors including yellow, orange, white and red for several weeks in spring. To encourage more blooms give plants a light shearing after blooms begin to fade and, after a short rest, they will fill out and continue blooming for the rest of the summer. Short lived but so delightful that they're worth replacing when needed. Zone 2.
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Papver orientale(Oriental Poppy) All oriental poppies decline after flowering, usually to the point of complete dormancy by summer. Plants will reemerge with cooler fall weather. Combine with Gypsophila (Baby's Breath) or some other leafy, later-blooming plant to fill in the gap.  
orientale ‘Allegro’ Compact growing, with orange-scarlet flowers with black eyes, only 1½ ft. tall. Blooms mid-May into June.
orientale ‘Beauty of Livermere’ Deep oxblood-red flowers measure 4-6” across. One of the finest reds. A big, bold, red poppy. One of the best reds. 30” tall.
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orientalis ‘Patty’s Plum’ Large, luscious, plum purple flowers with the typical poppy, melt-your-heart, tissue paper texture. 2½’ high. Blooms June-July.
orientale ‘Queen Alexandra’ Bright salmonl-pink flowes with smooth, rounded petals measure 4-5” across. Blooms late spring - early summer. 30” tall.
orientale ‘Royal Wedding’ Pure white flowers with black centers, 2’ tall, blooms May-June.
orientale ‘Watermelon’ A unique designer color, not just pink, but rich deep pink with a hint of purple and a whole lot of gusto. 2-2½' tall, blooms June-July. Zone 4.
Other Poppies
nordhagenianum ssp. islandicum (radiatum ssp. radiatum) (Arctic Poppy) This very long name belongs to the little orange poppy that has graced our borders for many years. We've called it Papaver spicatum, Papaver atlanticum, Papaver "Cute Little Orange Poppy", but had never been quite sure of the correct name until a staff horticulturist a the Montreal Botanic Gardens suggested the above name. Whatever the name, it’s a charmer, with orange, crepe paper-like flowers over gray-green foliage, 18-24". Blooms off and on all summer long. Self sows. Very hardy (all the Google hits were in Iceland!).
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Paxistima canbyi Look under shrubs.
Penstemon calycosus New (Calico Beard Tongue) Pale pinkish lavender snapdragon-like flowers, with pale to white insides, bloom spring through early summer on branched central stalks, 30-48” tall. Similar to P. digitalis except slightly smaller and more shade tolerant. Native to the eastern U.S., it’s a great choice for naturalizing but refined enough for the formal garden. Sun, with rich, evenly moist soil. Zone 4.
Penstemon digitalis ‘Dark Towers’ Immediately recognizable as an improvement over ‘Husker Red’, with foliage that emerges deep wine purple and keeps its rich color through the summer heat. Masses of lavender pink, rather than white, flowers are carried on strong, upright 42” tall stems. Blooms for many weeks beginning in mid summer. Flowers are suitable for cutting. Foliage remains a focal point after the bloom has finished. With its showy flowers, attractive foliage and sturdy vertical habit, ‘Dark Towers’ brings season-long interest to the mixed perennial border and is also perfectly suited to more naturalistic plantings. Plants do best in rich, moist but well drained soil, in sun. Zone 5.
Penstemon ‘Prairie Twilight’ New Lavender blue flowers with white tops on burgundy stems, late May-mid June, excellent for cutting. Plants have a dense, upright form lending bold color and a vertical element. Another great introduction from the University of Nebraska Breeding Program. Solidly winter hardy and easy to grow. 2' tall. Grow in sun, in average, moist but well drained soil. Good drainage is important. Zone 3.
Penstemon virgatus ‘Blue Buckle’ Blue-purple flowers in dense clusters on rigid, upright stems. Withstands heat and drought, cold hardy, tough, and, it’s pretty to boot! A good candidate for the meadow garden and more naturaized plantings. Attractive enough for the traditional, sunny perennial border. Grows 1’ tall, blooms July-September. Zone 5.
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Penstemon x ‘Elfin Pink' Hundreds of delicate pink trumpets on 12-14in. spikes for many weeks in summer. Charming in the border, and always alive with hummingbirds.
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Perovskia atriplicifolia (Russian Sage) Finely textured, aromatic, silver-gray foliage topped with long spikes of purple flowers in late summer, persisting for many weeks. Plants have an airy and relaxed form. Full sun and good drainage are essential. Cut back in spring to no more than 1ft. It has been our experience that going lower than 1 ft. greatly impedes the plants ability to fully regrow during the season. Hardy to zone 5.    
Perovskia atriplicifolia ‘Blue Spire’ Winner of the Royal Horticultural Society Award of Merit for its larger flowerheads. 'Blue Spire' grows 2-3' tall, with whitish gray stems clad in gray/green leaves and topped with large, lavender blue flower spikes that are noticably larger than the species. The bare stems are beautiful in winter as they take on a ghostly white sheen, maintaining good structure well into winter. I happened upon them in the garden just after our big nor'eastern,(1/12/11), poking up through 1½' of snow, and, making a virtue of neglect, I congradulated myself for having had the foresight to skip the usual fall cleanup. Zone 5.
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Perovskia atriplicifolia'Little Spires' Selected for its shorter more upright habit and its longer bloom period. Grows 2 1/2ft.-3ft. tall. At left, ‘Little Spires’ harmonizes with Tanacetum vulgare ‘Isla Gold’ in our front border.
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Persicaria filiformis ‘Painter’s Palette’ From seed, so the variegation is different on every plant, each displaying a unique combination of the colors red, ivory, yellow and pink, splashed over the basic, green leaves. Not all colors are present on every plant but every combination is attractive no matter how many colors are in the mix. These make great fillers in the shade border and, after a season of self-seeding, will populate large areas with their pretty foliage and their understated but quite effective panicles of tiny, bright red, bead-like flowers. Blooms in late summer for many weeks. Prolific self-seeders but unwanted volunteers are easily pulled. I've spent many a pleasant time culling through a bunch of seedlings picking out the most colorful for growing on. Easy in average soil in part to full shade. 2' high. Zone 4.
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Persicaria polymorpha Fluffy, creamy-white plumes all summer long over strong stemmed, upright, non- spreading mounds of foliage. Its long bloom period, strong upright habit and ease of culture commend this plant as a first rate garden specimen. Several years ago when it was new on the gardening scene, polymorpha created a good bit of excitement, and if you’re looking for a large, pest free perennial with good form and season-long bloom, then this might be just your plant. 5-6ft. high. Zone 4.
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Taller Growing, Border Phlox
PHLOX paniculata (Summer Phlox) Summer Phlox are invaluable for exuberant displays of color at that awkward time between mid summer and fall. They’re easy to satisfy, needing only a site in full sun with average or better, well-drained soil, with reasonably consistent moisture. If powdery mildew should become a problem, the following recommendations may prove helpful. First, after selecting a resistant variety, hope and pray that you never have to deal with the problem. If that doesn’t work, consider adding extra doses of lime to the soil. I know of one major grower who swears that raising the pH will significantly reduce outbreaks. Fall cleanup is important. The spores overwinter in the fallen leaves so, as well as cutting back stems, as many leaves as possible should be raked up, hand picked or otherwise gotten into the trash,(not into the compost pile), and off your property. A low impact application of baking soda, alone, dissolved in warm water or in solution with one of the new, light weight, horticultural oils can be quite effective. 
Phlox Early Start™ Pink New This interspecific hybrid looks much like garden phlox but flowers a full 4-6 weeks before Phlox paniculata. Full heads of medium pink flowers over plants that only reach 12" high. Zone 5.
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PHLOX paniculata ‘Blue Paradise’ This is the bluest garden phlox I’ve seen. Flowers open a unique, smoky-blue, then take on a bit of red, finally resolving to a nice blue/purple. With average, even moisture, plants bloom for most of the summer and demonstrate good mildew resistance. It was recommended to us that the addition of extra amounts of lime to the soil can greatly reduce the presence of powdery mildew. We’re trying it and it seems to be helping. So, more lime, together with a fastidious cleanup in fall, are two non-chemical measures that can help combat the scourge of mildew.
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paniculata 'David' 4-5', white, fragrant, mildew resistant - this plant has it all. Perennial Plant of the Year 2002.
paniculata ‘Jade’ New Pure white flowers edged in green cover this compact growing phlox. What's unique about 'Jade' is that the flower petals are retained until the whlole flower cluster is spent resulting in a fuller flower over a longer period. 20" high. Zone 4.
paniculata ‘Jeana’ Intriguing, tiny (½"), pink flowers are tightly crowded into golf ball sized clusters which, in turn, are combined with many similar clusters to form a single large flower panicle. Very different, possessing that special allure of the miniature. Grows quite tall with clumps in our border reaching 5 to 6' in height. Very high mildew resistance.
paniculata 'Laura' Huge panicles of royal purple flowers with distinct white stars in the center of each floret, mildew resistant. 3’ tall. Very eye-catching and a consistent best seller.
paniculata ‘Lord Clayton’ New A regal combination of leaf and bloom with foliage that emerges deep purple with lime green stems and veins, later changing to a deep purple-green. From late June and into September, bright, cherry-red flowers yet more excitement as they contrast so effectively with the dark foliage. 2-3' tall. Shows good mildew resistance. Does best in sun, in fertile, evenly moist soil. Zone 4.
paniculata ‘Mystisque Black’ New Black flowers are always in style! In this case, it's actually the unopened flower buds that stay black for weeks until they finally open to solve the mystery by revealling lavender-pink flowers with a deep pink eye. Compact growing, only 20" high. Zone 4.
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PHLOX paniculata 'Nicky' 3-4ft. tall with deep, luscious, magenta-purple flowers, mildew resistant. A beautiful, standout color that attracts much attention all summer long. The photo dosen’t begin to capture the intensity of the color of these flowers. They’re really a knockout, brilliant burgundy-purple.
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paniculata ‘Peppermint Twist’ Resembling a peppermint pinwheel candy, 'Peppermint Twist' features flower petals striped white and bubble gum pink, a color combination that is rare and very showy. Flowers are held in large panicles on strong stems above deep green, mildew resistent foliage. Blooms from July into Sept. with flowers that emit a sweet fragrance. Compact growing at 2' high. Best planted in rich, well-drained soil in full sun in a location with good air circulation. Zone 4.
paniculata‘Tequila Sunrise’ New Deep salmon-orange flowers with a tiny red eye. Nice and compact growing at only 18" high. Blooms for many weeks in summer with flowers of such intensity that just a few plants can breath life into a tired summer borded. In larger group the effect is stop-you-in-your-tracks devastating! Dead-heading will extend the bloom. Zone 4.
paniculata‘Tiara’ New Huge clusters of individual white flowers unfurl like a rose bud giving them a fuller, almost double appearance. Flowers hold their petals for an extended period both in the garden and as cuts. Though plants are very compact growing at only 18" high, the sheer heft of the large panicles may make it necessary to stake them. Zone 4.
Lower Growing Phlox
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Phlox divaricata ‘May Breeze’ Fragrant, light blue flowers in mid-spring. At only 12" high they're well suited for an up-front spot in the part to full shade border where their sweet fragrance can be deeply inhaled. A combination of 'May Breeze' with yellow and white daffodils is an invitation to pause and marvel at the return of spring.
Phlox divaricata ‘Manita’ New An exciting new Woodland Phlox with flowers twice the size of many other varieties. Though flowers are described as white with an indigo eye, the cool temperatures of early spring nudge the indigo out into the petals giving them an attractive smoky purple look. Flowers are carried above the basal foliage on delicate,12" stems and seem choreographed to sway gently, in unison, on every spring breeze. Adapted to growing in part to full shade with average, evenly moist soil, preferably containing lots of organic matter. Vigorous and heavy blooming. Always looks best in drifts. Marginally evergreen but not a standout winter plant. Zone 4.
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Phlox glaberrima ‘Triple Play’ A showy, smaller phlox with striking dark green, narrow or willow-like foliage edged with wide cream margins. Margins are whiter in more sun. Foliage mounds to 4-5" and spreads hesitantly to 1' wide. From mid June and into July, clusters of pinkish lavender flowers bloom on 10 -15" stems creating a sparkling contrast with the green and white variegated foliage. Foliage is semi-evergreen and, depending on the weather, adds garden appeal in spring, summer and fall. Grow in sun to part shade, in average to rich soil that's well drained. Very showy! A great choice for adding some flare to the "all green" shade garden. Zone 4.
Phlox nivalis ‘Dark Eye’ Just 6” high and spreading with large, 1” across, uniquely shaped light purple flowers that always remind me of purple snowflakes because of their intricate notching. Provide average, acid soil in part shade. Not commonly seen in gardens but worthy of more use. Zone 3.
Phlox stolonifera (Creeping Phlox) Low, modestly spreading foliage from which arise 12in. flower stems with 2 or 3 blooms per stem. Probably the most shade tolerant phlox and a valuable source of color in the woodland garden where its spring bloom establishes a soft, ethereal presence. Zone 2.
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stolonifera ‘Blue Ridge’ Lavender-blue flowers are carried on 8” stems above low-growing, almost ground hugging foliage, spring. Similar to Phlox divaricata with similar growing requirements of light to heavier shade, in average or better, reasonably moist soil. And, like Phlox divaricata, they are a delight in the early to mid spring woodland garden as they gently undulate on even the slightest breeze, heralding the arrival of spring. Zone 4.
stolonifera ‘Bruce’s White’ Pure white flowers waft gentle on every spring breeze atop 8" high stems over low, mat-forming foliage that can be utilized for modest ground cover. Removing spent flowers results in thicker, more robust foliage mats. Zone 4.
stolonifera ‘Mary Belle Frey’ New 12” flower stems rise above low foliage mats, each carrying 2 or 3 rosy-pink flowers per stem. Shade tolerant phlox and a valuable source of color in the woodland garden where its spring bloom extends a warm welcome to the coming season. Zone 2.
stolonifera ‘Sherwood Purple’ Rich, deep purple flowers held on slender but sturdy stems 6-10" above thick, stoloniferous mats of foliage. Flower color is intense purple, very attractive, considered by many to be the best of the stolonifera type phlox. Valued for its flowers that last for several weeks in early spring, and for its spreading foliage mats that are suitable for modest ground cover over smaller areas. Shearing off flower stems after flowering encourages thicker foliage mats. Provide average or better soil with reasonable moisture in part to full shade, or even sun, with sufficient moisture. Becomes more drought tolerant when established. Native to the Appalachians. Zone 5.
Phlox subulata ‘Amazing Grace’ Pure white flowers with a red eye, over low, spreading foliage mats. Very effective at the front of the border, in the rock garden and drapping over retaining walls. For full sun and average, well drained soil. Blooms in April-May. Zone 2.
Phlox subulata ‘Cotton Candy’ New A prolific bloomer covered in masses of white flowers in early spring, continuing to bloom sporadically into summer. The clump forming floiage is substantial and retains its pleasing green color without getting rangy looking like other varieties. 4" high and spreading. Zone 3.
Phlox subulata ‘Crimson Beauty’ 4-6" high mats of attractive needle-like foliage and waves of rosy-red flowers in late spring. Zone 3.
Phlox subulata ‘Emerald Blue’ More compact, with lavender-blue flowers over emerald green foliage in May .
Phlox subulata ‘McDaniels Cushion’ Waves of deep pink flowers over compact foliage mounds. Almost everyone has some aquantance with ground phlox and, like Forsythia and Daffodils, they're often taken for granted until spring rolls around and they bust into dazzling bloom, reminding us that no garden is really complete without them. One of the best low, spreading perennials for harsh, open sites with average to poor, well drained to dry soil. Wonderful flowing over rocks, draping over walls, inserted into the sides of dry walls and tucked in between stepping stones. Zone 3.
Phlox subulata ‘Purple Beauty’ Deep purple flowers of an intensity not usually seen in creeping phlox. Flowers blanket low, spreading, foliage mats and have few rival when it comes to sheer flower power in early spring. 4-6” high. Zone 2.
Phlox subulata 'Snowflake' Pristine white flowers are more dense and compact than 'White Delight'.
Physostegia (Obedient Plant, False Dragonhead) 3-4ft. tall, vigorously spreading clumps with spikes of pink or white, snapdragon-like flowers for a long stretch in summer. Will spread out of control in a year or two, at which point all but a few sprigs should be dug out and tossed. This is a chore we’re willing to perform in return for handsome, carefree, cutflowers all summer. Neutral or higher pHs suit them as does an even moisture level. Zone 3. 
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Physostegia virginiana 'Miss Manners' A clump-forming selection that is indeed well mannered and will stay where you plant it! White flowers bloom on 2' stalks with glossy green foliage. Zone 3.
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virginiana ‘Pink Manners’ New Here's an Obedient Plant that delivers carefree beauty without any unwanted spread. A sport of that other great, non-invasive Obedient Plant, the white flowering Physostegia v. 'Miss Manners', it retains the best qualities of its progenitor and then goes a step further in offering pink flowers. Grows 2-3' tall, blooms for many weeks during mid to late summer and, most important, it's clump forming. An excellent low maintenance border perennial that does well in sun,(best), or light shade, with average though evenly moist soil. One of the best perennials for cutting. Zone 3.
virginiana ‘Variegata’ Gray-green leaves, generously outlined with a wide, white margin provide the background for the numerous lilac-pink flowers that bloom on short spikes for many weeks in late summer. A pretty plant for both the attractive foliage and the late summer flowers, and, it's not as aggressive as some of the green leaf types. Grow in sun to part shade in average soil. Zone 3.
Phyteuma scheuchzeri This is a tough plant to describe but one that's well worth seeking out. First of all, it's related to the Bellflowers but you'd never know it except for the gorgeous deep blue color of its flowers. The shape of the flowers is very distinctive,-which should not be taken to mean that they're "odd" or merely "curious-looking", because, in fact, they are very beautiful. They're roundish, with many spiky, tubular, deep blue "structures" encircling a central orb, somewhat similar to Echinops but more loosely arranged. Foliage is grass-like, blue/green in color, tufted and modestly spreading. Flowers are attractively presented above the foliage on 8" stems, blooms over a long period, June-July. Suitable for the rock garden or any sunny, evenly moist, well drained spot. Zone 6, and 5 with snow or some other protection. I've carried it over for several years without protection here at Bay State, zone 5 on the line between a & b.
Pimpinella major ‘Rosea’ Plants have the look of Queen Ann’s Lace, (to which they are related), but with greener foliage and a more rounded, multi-branched habit. Flowers are large, flat discs 3-5” across, soft pink in color. Flowering starts in late spring and continues into summer. 3’ high. Plant in full sun with average or better, well-drained soil. Not common in gardens yet its airy habit and attractive flowers attract lots of attention in our border. Zone 5.
Platycodon (Balloon Flower) Long lived, long blooming and pest free, balloon flowers are true low maintenance perennials. Plants are late to emerge in spring so take care not to accidentally dig them out or mash them under foot. Large, inflated buds that always remind me of miniature hot air balloons open to reveal 2-3in. wide, five petaled flowers that, depending on variety, are either blue, white or pink in color and single or double in form. Again, depending on variety, plants can range in height from 6ins. up to 3ft. tall. Begins blooming in mid summer and continues for many weeks. Zone 3.
‘Astra Blue’ True blue, ballon-like buds that are highly ornamental by themselves burst open into lovely, bell or star-shaped, single, periwinkle blue flowers, 2-3" wide. The compact, well branching habit, only 8-10ins. tall, and flower petals of thick substance guarantees a long display of flowers. They are completely hardy and long lived, with flowers that begin opening in mid summer and continue for many weeks, providing the perfect floral antidote for the dog days of the summer border. For best growth, site in full sun, with rich, reasonably moist, but well drained soil, (good drainage is important). Plants are late to emerge in spring so care must be taken not to accidently snap off the small, asparagus-like shoots. Zone 3.
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Platycodon ‘Astra Double Blue’ Balloon-like buds burst open into fully double, bell-shaped flowers. Exceptional branching and flower petals of thick substance make for long-lasting periwinkle blue blooms. Compact habit, only 8-10ins. tall. Zone 3.
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‘Astra Double White’ Large, 2-3” wide, fully double, bell-shaped white flowers on compact, exceptionally well branched and uniform plants. 8-10ins. tall. Blooms for many weeks starting in mid summer. Very reliable and carefree, pest and disease free.
‘Astra Pink’ Large, pink, ornamental, ballon-like buds burst open into lovely, single, bell or star-shaped soft pink flowers, 2-3" wide. The compact, well branched habit, only 8-10ins. tall, and flower petals with thick substance make for a long-lasting flower display. They are completely hardy and long lived, with flowers beginning to open in mid summer and continuing for many weeks, providing the perfect floral antidote for the dog days of the summer border. For best growth, site in full sun, with rich, reasonably moist, but well drained soil, (good drainage is important). Plants are late to emerge in spring so care must be taken not to accidently snap off the small, asparagus-like shoots. Zone 3.
‘Astra White’ Pure white, ballon-like buds that are highly ornamental even before they pop open into lovely, bell or star-shaped, single, white flowers, 2-3" wide. The compact, well branching habit, only 8-10ins. tall, and flower petals of thick substance guarantees a long display of flowers. They are completely hardy and long lived, with flowers begining to open in mid summer and continuing for many weeks, providing the perfect floral antidote for the dog days of the summer border. For best growth, site in full sun, with rich, reasonably moist, but well drained soil, (good drainage is important). Plants are late to emerge in spring so care must be taken not to accidently snap off the small, asparagus-like shoots. Zone 3.
grandiflora ‘Fuji Blue’ Large deep blue, wide open bells, 1½ -2" across that bloom smack dab in the middle of summer at a time when yellow flowers dominate the garden, 2’ high. The lower platycodon are perfect for the very front of the border but I like the greater height of ‘Fuji Blue’ because it allows a wider range of placement, especially in the mid-border area. One of the best for maintaining a blue color scheme in the summer border.
grandiflora ‘Fuji Pink’ Large pale pink flowers striped with darker veins. The flower color resembles that of Geranium sang. var. striatum. 20-25’ tall. As with ‘Fuji Blue’, the taller stature of ‘Fuji Pink’ make it very useful when working in the mid-border region where these large, lovely, low maintenance and long blooming beauties will provide weeks of color.
grandiflora ‘Sentimental Blue’ An outstanding dwarf selection, 6-9ins. high, with large, single blue flowers. These are amazing and irresistible little blooming machines that delight first with their wonderful, hot air balloon-like buds, and then with the month long display of charming flowers.
Polemonium (Jacob's Ladder) Foliage is most heavily concentrated at the base, thinning out as it rises up the flower stalks. The placement of the leaflets on the long, compound leaves resembles rungs on a ladder, thus the common name. More commonly blue but also white, 3/4in.-1in. flowers occur in loose clusters conspicuously elevated above the foliage where they make a very pleasant display from late spring, well into summer. Plants are valued for their attractive foliage as well as their flowers and do best in half shade, in moist but well drained soil. Full sun is only recommended if sufficiently moist. Whether in sun or shade, good drainage is vital. Polemonium is suitable for perennial borders, but really shines in the partially shaded, woodland garden. Zone 4.
boreale ‘Heavenly Habit’ Rich violet blue flowers on compact, spreading mats of delicate green foliage, blooms May-June. 2' tall encluding the flower height. Nice for cutting. Carefree and strong blooming. Best in part to full shade, with reasonable fertile and moist soil. Zone 3.
boreale ‘San Juan Skies’ Low, compact mounds of fern-like silvery-green foliage and medium blue flowers with a central purple ring and white eye. Grows only 8-12" high and is perfect for the rock and trough garden. Zone 3.
caeruleum ‘Brise d’Anjou’ Variegated green and gold leaves that retain their rich color throughout the season. Blue flowers held attractively above the foliage in spring. 12in. high foliage mound. This is a beautiful plant that can be challenging to grow. Many gardeners report having excellent luck consistently bringing this plant through winter. At the same time, there are many reports of failure at getting through a single winter. It seems to be one of those plants that has to be tried to determine how it will do in any particular garden. It's too beautiful not to be tried at least once, and maybe twice. Grow in part shade in rich, moist, but perfectly drained soil.
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Polemonium reptans 'Touch of Class' Foliage emerges pink in the spring and slowly changes to green with a creamy white border. Light blue flowers bloom in May on 15" stems. Zones 4-8.
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Polygonatum See woodland plants.
Potentilla atrosanguinea ‘Fireball Mixed’ Up to 3' tall with vivid, yellow, orange or red, double flowers, June-July over pleasing silvery-green leaves, clump forming with a relaxed, upright habit. Tolerant of infertile, well drained soil, plants are indispensable for infusing bright color to sites where many other flowers would shrivel. Full sun. Zone 4.
Potentilla atrosanguinea ‘Red’ Not just red, but deep, intense, blood-red flowers above attractive silvery/green foliage. 1-1½' high, clump forming, with an upright habit that's more dense than other selections. Best used on average, even infertile sites that are well drained where they combine beautifully with plants of similar requirements such as Artemisia 'Powis Castle' whose shimmering silver foliage acts as the perfect foil for the intense red flowers. Full sun. Zone 4.
Primula beesiana New 18-30" stems bear several tiers of violed-magenta flowers, with yellow eyes, June-July. Free-flowering and slightly fragrant. Zone 5.
Primula bullesiana A cross between P. beesiana and P. bulleyana with flowers that are a combination of both species. In spring, a succession of yellow, orange, red or violet umbels whorl around 20in. stems. Zone 4.
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Primula capitata ssp. mooreana (Salvana) Small, fluted, dark violet, silver-powdered, flowers are held 10ins. above the rosetted foliage in large, flattened clusters, each flower positioned horizontally in tight discs, two or three levels deep. The rich purple color is deepest toward the outside with centers heavily silver powdered. Sensational! Unlike any Primula we’d seen before.
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Primula denticulata (Drumstick Primrose) Easily grown and frost resistant, asking only for reasonably moist soil with good drainage and partial shade. One of the earliest Primulas to flower, in April and May. 6-12ins. high, zones 4. We offer the following cultivars:
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PRIMULA den. 'Alba' White flowers.
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denticulata 'Blue Selection' Blue flowers clusters.
denticulata 'Rubin' As above, with carmine-red flowers.
japonica ‘Millers Crimson’ 18in. stems ringed with 7 to 10 tiers of brilliant crimson, tubular flowers in candelabra fashion. Striking in bloom with their brightly colored, architectural flower stalks. Particularly effective massed in the moist, partially shaded garden. Zone 5.
luteola Native to higher elevations of central europe, this underused but easy to grow primrose blooms from July-Sept. with large, tightly packed, sulfur yellow umbels at the ends of 10-14" upright flower stems. Prefers part to full shade with reasonably moist soil. Will tolerate sun if soil is consistently moist. Zone 5.
sieboldii 10-12" airy flower cluster bloom in various shades of pink. Quick to develope tight mats of light, pastel green rosettes that form the perfect backdrop to the delightful, rosy pink flowers. Blooms profusely in early to mid spring and then obligingly goes dormant. Be sure to mark its spot well to make sure they’re not accidentally dug up. Zone 4.
veris Primula veris is common throughout the English countryside along byways and in hedgerows, very evocative of spring in England and single-handedly responsible for a good part of the horticultural tourism that flourishes in that country. Tolerates sunnier and drier locations than many other Primula. Self seeds around nicely. Zone 5.
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Pulmonaria (Lungwort) Pulmonarias are valued as much for their handsome foliage as for the intriguing flowers, most of which open blue from pink buds and then fade back to pink. Plants look their best in part to full shade in average or better soil that's evenly moist and well-drained with mature plants developing increased drought tolerance. In the event that powdery mildew or drought disfigures the leaves, they can be cut back to the ground, and a fresh new crop of leaves will appear in short order. Siting in morning sun may discourage mildew. Good winter drainage is essential to survival. Otherwise, Pulmonaria is a pretty tough little plant, hardy and long-lived, and, not palatable to deer or slugs. All are hardy to at least zone 4.
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Pulmonaria ‘Excalibur’ Silver leaves edged in dark green with violet blue flowers that age to pink, 9” tall. Blooms April-May. Disease resistant.
‘Blye Ensigh’ A very compact habit with intense blue blooms in early spring. Foliage is deep green with no spots. Zone 4.
‘High Contrast’ Lance-shaped, green leaves liberally brushed with silver are the backdrop for clusters of bright pink flowers that undergo an intriguing transition to blue. Valued for its attractive foliage that can be massed to form a high impact ground cover in shade, or used singly or in smaller specimen groupings, and also for its charming flowers that are all the more appealing for their early spring bloom. Foliage mounds 6-9" high and flowers rise an additional 2-3". Best planting locations are in part to full shade with reasonably moist but well drained soil. 'High Contrast' demonstrates good mildew resistance and impressive drought tolerance once established. Zone 4.
‘Samaurai’ An improvement of P. 'Majeste', with intensely silver leaves with a more pronounced dark green edge, and blue-pink flowers April-May. Extremely heat tolerant. Zone 4.
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Pulsatilla vulgaris (Pasque Flower) Large, mostly horizontal to upfacing, urn-shaped flowers in early spring, followed by attractive, feathery seed pods. Finely dissected foliage is covered with soft silky hairs. Native to Europe and north to Sweden where it grows in full sun, on dry, alkaline soil. Good drainage is critical. Blooms early spring. Beautiful in flower and post-flower for its attractive seedheads, and, if conditions are righ, quite long blooming. Zone 5. We offer the following selection:
vulgaris Pinwheel Series ‘Blue Violett’ Bright blue-velvet, urn-shaped flowers held mostly horizontal to upfacing above compact tufts of finely dissected, soft, silver-haired foliage, 2-3 flowers in a cluster. Early flowering, usually around Easter. Followers are followed by decorative seed heads. Native to Europe and north to Sweden where they grow in full sun, on well drained, alkaline soil. Good drainage is critical. These are facinating and endearing little plants,(compact, 6-12" tall), that require full sun, with average to dry, well drained soil. Zone 3.
vulgaris ‘Pearl Bells’ Vigorous, compact tufts of silvery foliage support large, soft pink flowers on 6-12" stems in spring, just about when the Crocus appear in spring. Grow in sun, with well-drained, alkaline soil. Zone 3.
Pycnanthemum muticum A member of the mint family, this 3’ tall aromatic herb has showy silver bracts at the ends of its stems all summer. Lends bulk and vertical dimension to the sunny border, very fragrant. Excellent for cutting. Easy to grow and trouble free in average, well-drained soil, full sun. Zone 3.
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