Horticultural Program

In the Gardens: The Radiance of the False Sunflower (Heliopsis helianthoides)

nmccarthy — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 13:04:00 +0000

In the Gardens: The Radiance of the False Sunflower (Heliopsis helianthoides) nmccarthy Wed, 07/31/2024 - 09:04:AM

The False Sunflower, scientifically known as Heliopsis helianthoides, is a vibrant and hardy perennial that brightens gardens and landscapes with its cheerful yellow blooms. Often mistaken for true sunflowers, this plant brings similar beauty and charm with less maintenance, making it a favourite among gardeners.

Characteristics and Appearance

The False Sunflower typically grows to heights of 3-5 feet, with a spread of 2-4 feet. Its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers, which can be 2-3 inches across, bloom from early summer to fall. These flowers are borne on sturdy, branching stems that rise above the dark green, lance-shaped leaves, creating a striking contrast. The plant's robust and upright form makes it a standout in any garden.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

Heliopsis helianthoides thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is highly adaptable and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including clay, loamy, and sandy soils. This plant is drought-tolerant once established and is hardy in USDA zones 3-9, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. Its long blooming period and minimal care requirements make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The False Sunflower, native to North America, has been a beloved garden plant for centuries. It is often used in traditional and cottage garden designs, where its bright blooms can be appreciated throughout the growing season. The plant's name, "Heliopsis," means "sun-like" in Greek, reflecting its sunny disposition and appearance.

Ecological Importance

Ecologically, Heliopsis helianthoides is a valuable addition to any garden. Its flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. The plant also provides seeds that are a food source for birds and other wildlife. Its deep root system helps improve soil structure and prevent erosion, contributing to the health of the garden ecosystem.

Landscaping and Uses

In landscaping, the False Sunflower is prized for its long-lasting blooms and versatility. It can be used in mixed borders, wildflower gardens, and as a backdrop for shorter plants. Its bright flowers make excellent cut flowers, adding a touch of sunshine to indoor arrangements. The plant's resilience and adaptability also make it suitable for naturalizing in meadows and along roadsides.

Beechwood's False Sunflower

Visitors to Beechwood Cemetery can enjoy the cheerful presence of the False Sunflower in Section 64. This peaceful setting provides an opportunity to appreciate the plant's beauty and ecological contributions in a serene and reflective environment.

The False Sunflower is more than just a beautiful plant; it is a symbol of resilience and a delightful addition to any landscape. Whether you're an avid gardener, a nature lover, or someone who enjoys the simple pleasure of bright blooms, Heliopsis helianthoides offers much to admire. Its adaptability, ecological benefits, and radiant flowers make it a species worthy of celebration and cultivation.

Horticultural Program

August 13, 2024

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In the Gardens: the Charm of Picea pungens Semi-Dwarf Colorado Spruce

nmccarthy — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 16:54:27 +0000

In the Gardens: the Charm of Picea pungens Semi-Dwarf Colorado Spruce nmccarthy Thu, 06/20/2024 - 12:54:PM

Picea pungens 'Baby Blue Eyes', a semi-dwarf variety of the Colorado Spruce, is a captivating conifer that brings year-round beauty and elegance to any landscape. Known for its striking blue needles and manageable size, this spruce variety is a favourite among gardeners and landscapers.

Characteristics and Appearance

'Baby Blue Eyes' is a semi-dwarf evergreen conifer, typically reaching heights of 20-30 feet with a spread of 10-15 feet. Its most notable feature is its vibrant blue needles, which retain their colour throughout the year. The tree has a dense, pyramidal shape, making it an excellent choice for ornamental planting. In spring, small, inconspicuous cones appear, adding to the tree's visual interest.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

Picea pungens 'Baby Blue Eyes' thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is well-suited to a range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. Its moderate growth rate and compact size make it ideal for residential gardens, borders, and as a specimen plant.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Colorado Spruce, including its 'Baby Blue Eyes' variety, is native to the Rocky Mountains of North America. It has been valued for its ornamental beauty and resilience in landscape design. The unique blue colour of 'Baby Blue Eyes' makes it a standout choice for adding visual interest and year-round colour to gardens and landscapes.

Ecological Importance

Ecologically, Picea pungens 'Baby Blue Eyes' provides habitat and shelter for various birds and small mammals. Its dense branches offer protection and nesting sites, while the seeds from its cones provide a food source for wildlife. The tree's presence contributes to the biodiversity of its environment, supporting a range of species and promoting ecological balance.

Landscaping and Uses

In landscaping, 'Baby Blue Eyes' is cherished for its ornamental value and versatility. Its compact size and striking blue needles make it an excellent choice for small gardens, urban landscapes, and as a focal point in larger garden designs. It is often used in mixed borders, foundation plantings, and as a standalone specimen. The tree's year-round colour and low maintenance requirements make it a practical and aesthetically pleasing addition to any landscape.

Beechwood's Baby Blue Eyes

Visitors to Beechwood Cemetery can find the enchanting 'Baby Blue Eyes' Colorado Spruce in Section 29 as part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan Memorial. This serene location allows guests to appreciate the tree's unique beauty and reflect on its ecological and ornamental significance in a peaceful setting.

Picea pungens 'Baby Blue Eyes' is more than just a beautiful tree; it is a symbol of resilience and a delightful addition to any landscape. Its adaptability, ecological contributions, and year-round beauty make it a species worthy of celebration and cultivation.

Horticultural Program

July 30, 2024

In the Gardens - Elegance of the Royal Star Magnolia

nmccarthy — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 12:51:26 +0000

In the Gardens - Elegance of the Royal Star Magnolia nmccarthy Thu, 06/20/2024 - 08:51:AM

The Royal Star Magnolia, scientifically known as Magnolia stellata 'Royal Star,' is a captivating tree that brings a touch of grace and beauty to gardens and landscapes. Known for its stunning blossoms and manageable size, this magnolia variety is a favorite among gardeners and nature enthusiasts.

Characteristics and Appearance

The Royal Star Magnolia is a small deciduous tree or large shrub, typically growing to heights of 10-20 feet with a similar spread. Its most striking feature is its profuse, star-shaped flowers, which bloom in early spring. These blossoms are white, fragrant, and measure 3-4 inches across, with up to 30 petals each, creating a stunning display. The tree's dark green leaves emerge after the flowers, providing a lush backdrop through the summer before turning yellow in the fall.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

Magnolia stellata 'Royal Star' thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is often found in garden beds, borders, and as a specimen plant in lawns. This tree is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil types, making it a versatile choice for various landscapes.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Royal Star Magnolia, a cultivar of the native Japanese Star Magnolia, has become a beloved ornamental tree in gardens worldwide. Its early spring blooms are often associated with renewal and the arrival of warmer weather. This tree’s elegance and beauty make it a popular choice for commemorative plantings and decorative landscaping.

Ecological Importance

Ecologically, the Royal Star Magnolia provides early spring nectar and pollen for pollinators such as bees. Its dense branches offer shelter for birds and other small wildlife. While not a primary food source, the tree contributes to the biodiversity of its environment by supporting various insect species and providing habitat.

Landscaping and Uses

In landscaping, the Royal Star Magnolia is cherished for its ornamental value. Its early blooming period adds a burst of color to gardens just as winter fades. The tree’s compact size makes it suitable for small gardens, patios, and urban settings. It is often planted as a focal point in garden designs, where its stunning flowers can be fully appreciated.

Beechwood's Royal Star Magnolia

Visitors to Beechwood Cemetery can enjoy the beauty of the Royal Star Magnolia, located in Section 29 as part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. This serene setting allows visitors to experience the tree's breathtaking blooms and reflect on its cultural and ecological significance.

The Royal Star Magnolia is more than just a beautiful tree; it is a symbol of renewal and a delightful addition to any landscape. Its exquisite flowers, adaptability, and ecological benefits make it a species worthy of recognition and enjoyment.

Horticultural Program

July 23, 2024

In the Gardens - the Majesty of the English Oak (Quercus robur)

nmccarthy — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 12:29:11 +0000

In the Gardens - the Majesty of the English Oak (Quercus robur) nmccarthy Thu, 06/20/2024 - 08:29:AM

The English Oak, known scientifically as Quercus robur, is a majestic and enduring tree species that has been revered for centuries across Europe and beyond. Known for its strength, longevity, and historical significance, this tree is a cherished presence in both natural landscapes and cultivated gardens.

Characteristics and Appearance

The English Oak can grow up to 70-100 feet tall, with a broad canopy spread of 40-70 feet. Its leaves are characterized by their lobed, rounded structure, typically 2-5 inches long. The foliage is a vibrant green in the spring and summer, turning to a rich yellow-brown in the fall. The bark is rugged and deeply furrowed, adding to the tree’s stately appearance. In the spring, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers, followed by acorns in the fall, which are a vital food source for wildlife.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

Quercus robur thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and can adapt to a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy loams. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is commonly found in woodlands, parklands, and large gardens. This oak is known for its remarkable hardiness and ability to withstand adverse conditions, making it a versatile and resilient choice for various landscapes.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The English Oak holds a prominent place in European history and culture. It has been a symbol of strength and endurance for centuries and is often associated with English heritage. The tree’s wood has been used in shipbuilding, construction, and furniture-making due to its durability and strength. The English Oak is also deeply rooted in folklore and tradition, often seen as a symbol of wisdom and longevity.

Ecological Importance

Ecologically, the English Oak is a cornerstone species in its native habitats. Its acorns provide a crucial food source for a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects. The tree supports a wide range of species, from fungi to insects, creating a rich biodiversity around it. Its dense canopy offers shelter and nesting sites for numerous birds and small mammals.

Landscaping and Uses

In landscaping, the English Oak is prized for its shade and ornamental value. Its grand size and striking appearance make it an excellent choice for parks, large gardens, and estates. The wood of the English Oak is highly valued for its strength and resistance to decay, making it a preferred material for construction, furniture, and historical restoration projects.

Beechwood's English Oak

Visitors to Beechwood Cemetery can find the venerable English Oak in Section 29 as part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan memorial. This serene location allows guests to appreciate the tree's natural beauty and historical significance in a peaceful setting.

The English Oak is more than just a tree; it is a symbol of strength, an ecological pillar, and a magnificent addition to any landscape. Its resilience, ecological contributions, and timeless beauty make it a species worthy of celebration and preservation.

Horticultural Program

July 16, 2024

In the Gardens - Elegance of the Chinkapin Oak (Quercus muehlenbergii)

nmccarthy — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 12:16:04 +0000

In the Gardens - Elegance of the Chinkapin Oak (Quercus muehlenbergii) nmccarthy Thu, 06/20/2024 - 08:16:AM

The Chinkapin Oak, scientifically known as Quercus muehlenbergii, is a remarkable tree species celebrated for its adaptability, ecological benefits, and historical significance. Found primarily in the central and eastern United States, this oak is a standout addition to forests, parks, and large gardens.

Characteristics and Appearance

The Chinkapin Oak can grow up to 40-60 feet tall, with a canopy spread of 50-60 feet. Its leaves are distinctive, with a lanceolate shape and coarse, serrated edges, turning from a shiny dark green in the summer to a warm yellow-brown in the fall. The bark is light gray and flaky, adding to the tree’s visual appeal. In spring, it produces small, inconspicuous flowers, followed by sweet, edible acorns in the fall, which are favored by wildlife.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

Quercus muehlenbergii thrives in a variety of soil types, including limestone-rich and well-drained soils. It is commonly found in rocky, upland areas and along limestone outcrops. This oak is drought-tolerant and can grow in full sun to partial shade, making it a resilient and versatile choice for various landscapes.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Chinkapin Oak has played a significant role in the history and culture of its native regions. The tree’s name, "Chinkapin," is derived from the Algonquian word for chestnut, reflecting the similarity of its acorns to those of the chestnut tree.

Ecological Importance

Ecologically, the Chinkapin Oak is an essential species in its native habitats. Its acorns provide a crucial food source for various wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and squirrels. The tree also supports a wide range of insects, which in turn attract birds and other predators. Its deep root system helps prevent soil erosion, contributing to the stability of its environment.

Landscaping and Uses

In landscaping, the Chinkapin Oak is appreciated for its shade and ornamental value. Its striking fall foliage and robust structure make it a popular choice for parks, large gardens, and urban green spaces. The wood of the Chinkapin Oak is highly valued for its strength and resistance to decay, making it suitable for furniture, fencing, and even firewood.

Beechwood's Chinkapin Oak

For those visiting Beechwood Cemetery, the Chinkapin Oak can be found in Section 29 as part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan memorial. This location offers visitors the chance to admire the tree's beauty and reflect on its ecological and historical significance in a tranquil setting.

The Chinkapin Oak is more than just a tree; it is a symbol of resilience, an asset to the ecosystem, and a beautiful addition to any landscape. Its hardiness, ecological benefits, and aesthetic appeal make it a species worthy of recognition and cultivation.

Horticultural Program

July 9, 2024

In the Gardens - The Majesty of the Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)

nmccarthy — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 12:04:01 +0000

In the Gardens - The Majesty of the Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) nmccarthy Thu, 06/20/2024 - 08:04:AM

The Sugar Maple, known scientifically as Acer saccharum, is an iconic tree that stands as a symbol of natural beauty and ecological importance in North America. Renowned for its stunning fall foliage and the production of maple syrup, this tree is a cherished presence in forests and landscapes across the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada.

Characteristics and Appearance

The Sugar Maple can reach impressive heights of up to 75-100 feet, with a canopy spread of 50-75 feet. Its leaves, typically 3-5 inches long and wide, are characterized by their five-lobed, palmate structure. Throughout the year, the foliage transitions from lush green in the summer to vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and red in the fall, making it a standout in any landscape.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

Acer saccharum thrives in well-drained, fertile soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is often found in hardwood forests and along hillsides, where the soil is moist but not waterlogged. This tree is highly adaptable and can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, making it a versatile choice for various planting sites.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Sugar Maple holds a significant place in North American history and culture. People valued the tree for its sweet sap, which is boiled down to produce maple syrup and sugar. Today, the process of tapping Sugar Maples and producing syrup remains a time-honored tradition, especially in regions like Vermont and Quebec. The Sugar Maple is also the state tree of New York, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Vermont, and is featured prominently on the Canadian flag.

Ecological Importance

Ecologically, the Sugar Maple plays a crucial role in its native habitats. Its dense canopy provides shelter for various wildlife species, including birds, squirrels, and insects. The tree's sap and seeds are vital food sources for many animals, and its leaves contribute to the nutrient cycle through decomposition, enriching the soil.

Landscaping and Uses

In landscaping, the Sugar Maple is prized for its shade and ornamental beauty. Its impressive size and striking fall colors make it an excellent choice for parks, large gardens, and urban green spaces. Additionally, its wood is highly valued for its strength and fine grain, making it a preferred material for furniture, flooring, and musical instruments.

Beechwood's Sugar Maples

Visitors to Beechwood Cemetery can find the majestic Sugar Maples across the cemetery and lining the back of the National Military Cemetery Main Monument. The Sugar Maple is more than just a beautiful tree; it is a cornerstone of North American ecology and culture.

Whether you're an avid gardener, a nature enthusiast, or someone who appreciates the rich traditions of maple syrup production, Acer saccharum offers much to admire. Its durability, ecological contributions, and breathtaking beauty make it a treasured species worthy of celebration and preservation.

Horticultural Program

July 2, 2024

In the Gardens: The Aesculus glabra (Ohio Buckeye)

nmccarthy — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 11:40:36 +0000

In the Gardens: The Aesculus glabra (Ohio Buckeye) nmccarthy Thu, 06/20/2024 - 07:40:AM

The Ohio Buckeye, scientifically known as Aesculus glabra, is a fascinating tree species that graces the landscapes of North America, particularly the rich soils of Texas and other central United States regions. Known for its striking appearance and historical significance, this tree is a noteworthy addition to any botanical garden or natural landscape.

Characteristics and Appearance

The Ohio Buckeye can grow up to 50 feet tall, with a spread of 20-40 feet. Its distinctive leaves, arranged in a palmate pattern, consist of five leaflets that change colors throughout the seasons, from dark green in the summer to vibrant yellows and oranges in the fall. This tree blooms in early spring, showcasing clusters of yellow-green flowers that eventually give way to its signature fruit - the buckeye. These fruits, while visually appealing, contain seeds that are toxic if ingested.

Habitat and Growing Conditions

Aesculus glabra thrives in a variety of soil types but prefers moist, well-drained soils. It is commonly found in rich bottomlands and along riverbanks. This tree is tolerant of shade in its youth but requires more sunlight as it matures. Gardeners and landscapers appreciate the Ohio Buckeye for its hardiness and relatively low maintenance, making it a popular choice for parks and large open spaces.

Historical and Cultural Significance

The Ohio Buckeye holds a special place in American history and culture. It is the state tree of Ohio, and its name is deeply rooted in local tradition.

Ecological Importance

Beyond its cultural significance, Aesculus glabra plays a vital role in its ecosystem. The tree provides habitat and food for various wildlife, including squirrels and birds that feed on its seeds and flowers. Its early blooming period also makes it an important food source for pollinators emerging after the winter months.

Landscaping and Uses

In landscaping, the Ohio Buckeye is appreciated for its ornamental value. Its vibrant fall foliage and distinctive flowers make it an eye-catching addition to any landscape design. It is often planted in parks, large gardens, and naturalized areas where it can grow to its full potential.

Beechwood's Ohio Buckeye

For those visiting Beechwood Cemetery, the Ohio Buckeye can be found in Section 50. This location allows visitors to appreciate the tree's natural beauty and historical significance in a serene and respectful setting. The Ohio Buckeye is more than just a tree; it is a symbol of heritage, an asset to the ecosystem, and a beautiful addition to landscapes.

Whether you're a gardener, a nature enthusiast, or someone interested in American history, Aesculus glabra offers something to appreciate. Its resilience and beauty make it a remarkable species worthy of recognition and cultivation.

Horticultural Program

June 25, 2024

Introducing the Liberty Rose: A Tribute to Freedom and Sacrifice

nmccarthy — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 14:55:19 +0000

Introducing the Liberty Rose: A Tribute to Freedom and Sacrifice nmccarthy Thu, 06/06/2024 - 10:55:AM

We are thrilled to introduce a new edition to Beechwood Cemetery, - the Liberty Rose. This beautiful and symbolic rose hybridized by Brad Jalbert to honour those who have fought for and preserved our liberty and freedoms. This rose is a testament to the sacrifices made by countless individuals and carries a story that resonates deeply with the principles of remembrance and hope.

The Inspiration Behind the Liberty Rose

The Liberty Rose is a unique and hardy rose, carefully designed to resemble the poppy, a universal symbol of remembrance since the First World War. The poppy gained this symbolic status through its association with the famous wartime poem “In Flanders Field,” written by Canadian soldier and surgeon John McCrae. This poem, combined with the widespread growth of poppies in the battlefields of Europe, solidified the flower’s role as a poignant reminder of those who served and sacrificed.

The Creation of the Liberty Rose

In 2017, William McCarthy, a long-time friend and patron of Brad Jalbert, commissioned Jalbert to create a rose that would honour those who served in the armed services. McCarthy, a Master Rosarian, envisioned a rose that would complement a monument dedicated to Canadians who served in Afghanistan. This monument, located at McCarthy’s property outside Mission, British Columbia, features a Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV III) that served in Afghanistan.

Jalbert embraced this challenge by focusing on creating a hardy, disease-resistant shrub rose that resembled the red poppy. Each year, Jalbert hand-propagates thousands of rose seedlings, meticulously selecting only a few for further evaluation. From these few, the Liberty Rose emerged, meeting Jalbert’s high standards for appearance, color, vigor, and disease resistance.

The Significance of the Liberty Rose

The Liberty Rose holds a special place in Jalbert’s heart, as it commemorates his grandfather’s service in the Second World War as a member of the British Columbia Regiment. This connection adds a personal layer to the rose’s significance, making it a tribute not only to all who have served but also to Jalbert’s own family history. The name “Liberty” was chosen to encapsulate the deep and profound meaning behind the rose. It symbolizes freedom, sacrifice, and service, making it a perfect tribute to those who have and will serve their countries.

The Liberty Rose in the McCarthy Collection

The Liberty Rose is part of the McCarthy Collection, a series of roses commissioned by William McCarthy and hybridized by Brad Jalbert. This collection includes several noteworthy roses, each with its own unique story and significance. The Liberty Rose stands out as a beautiful, hardy, and vigorous shrub rose with stunning flowers and foliage, designed to evoke the image of a large red poppy.

A Monument of Remembrance

Adding to its significance, the Liberty Rose is now proudly planted in the flower beds surrounding the Tri-Service Monument at the National Military Cemetery in Ottawa. This monument, unveiled on June 28, 2004, honors the men and women of Canada’s Armed Forces who have served their country with distinction. The monument features poems inscribed on each side representing the Navy, Army, and Air Force. The presence of the Liberty Rose at this monument enhances its role as a place of reflection and remembrance, ensuring that the sacrifices of service members are not forgotten.

The Liberty Rose is a beautiful symbol of remembrance, hope, and freedom. It is a testament to the dedication and skill of Brad Jalbert, one of the world’s leading rose hybridizers, and the passion and vision of William McCarthy. This rose, generations in the making, is a tribute to all who have served and continue to serve in defense of liberty.

For more information about the Liberty Rose, Brad Jalbert, or William McCarthy, please visit their respective websites.

The Liberty Rose is a reminder that some things are worth fighting for and that the sacrifices made in the name of liberty should never be forgotten.

Horticultural Program

June 18, 2024

Arboretum Fundraising Update

ewagner — Thu, 02 May 2024 16:46:57 +0000

Arboretum Fundraising Update ewagner Thu, 05/02/2024 - 12:46:PM

Those who are regular readers of the Beechwood Way know about the Echo tree tag program — a program where when someone donates $400 toward our Horticulture program, a tree is planted somewhere on the Beechwood grounds and a wooden tag with an image of Echo the Fox gets hung from its sapling branches. What Beechwood hasn’t shared is why this program was so important.

There are three important phases to building an Arboretum:

1. Replace old or sick trees. This means cutting down the trees that are dangerous to passersby or trees with diseases that can spread to other trees.

2. Diversify the tree population. Every so often a disease can run rampant in the tree community. If our grounds consist solely of a few types of trees, in one fell swoop we could lose half of the Beechwood trees. Over the past five years, Beechwood has not only been removing the sick trees but replacing them with different varieties:

Three Flowered Maple
Acrocona Norway Spruce
Prairie Expedition Elm
Jacobsen’s Pyramid Larch
Contorted White Pine
Maidenhair Tree

3.Identify and catalogue. Beechwood spans 160 acres, so it is no easy feat to catalogue every tree. Our horticulture crew has done a fantastic job recording the new additions, but a tree expert needs to be hired to come and identify the older trees. From there, a tree tag system can be created, giving visitors not only information about the type of tree it is, but hopefully a little history about it as well.

Here is a sample of what the tree tag info could provide:

The Tulip Tree

The tulip tree is a large, fast-growing tree, up to 35 metres tall with a trunk up to 160 centimetres in diameter. As its name suggests, the tulip tree produces beautiful yellow-green flowers that are about 5 centimetres long. They have 6 petals and are shaped like tulip flowers and bloom in the spring. Its leaves are 7 to 12 centimetres long and are straight across the top, with 4 lobes beneath. They are light green and turn yellow in the fall. The tulip tree’s bark is smooth and dark green when the tree is young, then turns brown and ridged.

Tsukumo False-cypress – Chamaecyparis pisifera Tsukumo

'Tsukumo' is a dwarf evergreen shrub that is very slow-growing and will reach only 10 inches in 10 years. Its form is rounded and flat-topped, and grows wider than tall.

The origin of the cultivar is not known with certainty, but it most likely originated in Japan well before the mid-20th century. This tree's slow rate of growth and naturally dwarf habit make it a popular subject for bonsai or planting in a rock garden or container.

Next to the pond in the rock garden, this tree was planted 24 years ago.

We placed a Beechwood coffee cup next to the tree to show its size.

Horticultural Program

Off

In the Gardens: Weeping Eastern White Pine

nmccarthy — Mon, 29 Apr 2024 13:09:12 +0000

In the Gardens: Weeping Eastern White Pine nmccarthy Mon, 04/29/2024 - 09:09:AM

In the realm of garden landscapes, certain plants captivate us not just with their mere presence, but with their unique forms and ornamental charm. One such gem is the Weeping Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus 'Pendula'), a captivating dwarf conifer that adds a touch of elegance to any garden setting.

The Weeping Eastern White Pine can be found next to the pond in the Botanical Gardens.

Distinctive Appearance

What sets the Weeping Eastern White Pine apart is its loose weeping form and trailing branches, a stark departure from the typical growth habit of the species. This cultivar boasts soft blue needles that retain their color year-round, offering a delightful contrast against winter's white backdrop. This ornamental shrub, though relatively small in stature, makes a big impact with its graceful, weeping branches that can either cascade along the ground or elegantly drape over rocks and walls. Alternatively, when trained on a standard, it transforms into a striking weeping accent plant.

Landscape Attributes

The Weeping Eastern White Pine is prized for its rounded form and fine, weeping foliage, which sets it apart from other landscape plants. Despite its delicate appearance, it is surprisingly low-maintenance, typically looking its best without requiring regular pruning. Ideal Growing Conditions This delightful shrub thrives in full sunlight and adapts well to various growing conditions, from dry to moist soils, although it dislikes standing water. It's not picky about soil type or pH, making it versatile in garden settings. However, it does have a low tolerance for urban pollution, preferring sheltered locations away from busy city environments.

Landscaping Uses

The Weeping Eastern White Pine is a versatile addition to gardens, serving as a striking accent plant or a charming feature in general garden landscapes. Its slow growth rate ensures that it won't overpower smaller spaces, reaching a height of about 7 feet with a spread of 10 feet at maturity. This makes it ideal for planting under power lines or in areas where space is limited.

Growing Tips

For those considering this enchanting shrub for their garden, remember to provide it with ample sunlight and well-drained soil. While it's adaptable, avoid overly wet conditions and ensure it has some protection from harsh urban environments.

The Weeping Eastern White Pine is a testament to the beauty found in nature's variations. Its weeping form, coupled with evergreen bluish-green needles, adds year-round interest and elegance to gardens. Whether cascading over a rock wall or standing as a focal point, this cultivar embodies the art of landscape design, offering a touch of grace and tranquility to any outdoor space.

Horticultural Program

April 30, 2024