Stillwater Living Magazine Volume 10 Issue 12 June 2014 | Page 21

spotlight

Evergreen weeping plants can range
from our native Eastern Redcedar
(Juniperus virginiana ‘Pendula) to
Cedar of Lebanon (Cedrus libani
‘Pendula’) and Atlas Cedar (Cedrus
atlantica ‘Glauca Pendula’).
How about splendiferous plants
with contorted stems and leaves?
Corkscrew Willow (Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’) is a wonderful deciduous tree that fits the description.
It’s just fascinating to look at all of
the curly branches and stems. Take
note, though, this IS a willow and it
needs to be planted a good distance
from your house and any water features. The roots of willow can be
fairly invasive when looking for water
sources. In the shrub category there is
Harry Lauder’s Walkingstick (Corylus
avellana ‘Contorta’). This is a fantastic plant for winter interest. In the
summer it can be difficult to notice the
uniquely contorted stems when the
leaves cover the plant, but it’s a great
specimen to bring some Dr. Seuss to
leaf-less days. In the annuals category, a great plant for container gardens
is Soft Rush (Juncus effusus). With
cultivars like ‘Curly Wurly’, ‘Spiralis’
and ‘Unicorn’ you can be assured that
someone will ask you about it.
How about pom pom type
growth? Allium bulbs are great for
this effect. They send up a single
stalk with a round inflorescence at
the top in spring and summer. There

“Be grateful you’re not in the forest in France
Where the average young person just hasn’ t a chance
To escape from the perilous pants eating plants
But your pants are safe, you’re a fortunate guy
You ought to be shouting how lucky am I”
― Dr. Seuss, “Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are?”

JUNE 2014 | STILLWATER LIVING MAGAZINE

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