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MBG: Plants in Bloom Index

MBG Plants in Bloom: January 1, 2006 (Sun, 01 Jan 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Camellias are past peak in the Linnean House but still worth a visit. Bedding primroses and cyclamen continue to be showy. Most witchhazels are on the down turn but they are being replaced by the winter hazels, such as Corylopsis sinensis. You can see several in the Jenkins Daylily Garden. Glory of the snow is flowering at many locations around the Garden, including the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens. Early daffodil cultivars are in full flower in many locations around the Garden. Over the next couple of months the spring flowering bulbs will be very showy in the bulb gardens. Striped squill can also be seen flowering in several locations around the Garden. Note the jade vine on the lower level of the Climatron near the exit to the Brookings Interpretive Center. It is just beginning to flower. Enjoy the sweet scent of the fragrant honeysuckle bush on warm sunny days in the Scented and Woodland Gardens. Crocus are in full flower as are the Hellebores including those in the English Woodland Garden and the Strassenfest Garden. Enjoy the fragrances of spring blooming in the Shoenberg Temperate House. The weeping cherries and plums in the Japanese garden are in full flower. Early magnolias, including the star magnolia, are flowering around the Garden.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 8, 2006 (Sun, 08 Jan 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Some camellias are blooming in the Linnean House. Peak bloom in this conservatory typically occurs in mid to late February. The sweetly scented flowers of both Vernal (Hamamelis vernalis) and Chinese (H. mollis) witchhazel bloom on mild sunny days in the Jenkins Daylily, English Woodland and Japanese Gardens. A few precocious clumps of Giant snowdrop (Galanthus elwesii) blooming in the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens are testimony to the exceptionally mild early winter weather. Fruits of hollies are showy at this time of year. Especially noteworthy is the Winterberry hedge (Ilex verticillata‘Red Sprite’) in the Kemper Bird Garden.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 15, 2006 (Sun, 15 Jan 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Many camellias are blooming in the Linnean House. Peak bloom in this conservatory typically occurs in mid to late February. The sweetly scented flowers of both Vernal (Hamamelis vernalis) and Chinese (H. mollis) witchhazel bloom on mild sunny days in the Jenkins Daylily, English Woodland and Japanese Gardens. A few intermedia hybrids (Hamamelis x intermedia) are also beginning to bloom. A few precocious clumps of Giant snowdrop (Galanthus elwesii) blooming in the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens are testimony to the exceptionally mild early winter weather. Fruits of hollies are showy at this time of year. Especially noteworthy is the Winterberry hedge (Ilex verticillata ‘Red Sprite’) in the Kemper Bird Garden.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 22, 2006 (Sun, 22 Jan 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Many camellias are blooming in the Linnean House. Peak bloom in this conservatory typically occurs in mid to late February. The sweetly scented flowers of both Vernal (Hamamelis vernalis) and Chinese (H. mollis) witchhazel bloom on mild sunny days in the Jenkins Daylily, English Woodland and Japanese Gardens. A few intermedia hybrids (Hamamelis x intermedia) are also beginning to bloom. A few precocious clumps of Giant snowdrop (Galanthus elwesii) blooming in the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens are testimony to the exceptionally mild early winter weather. Fruits of hollies are showy at this time of year. Especially noteworthy is the Winterberry hedge (Ilex verticillata‘Red Sprite’) in the Kemper Bird Garden.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 29, 2006 (Sun, 29 Jan 2006 10:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February 5, 2006 (Sun, 05 Feb 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Camellias are becoming showy in the Linnean House. Peak bloom in this conservatory typically occurs in mid to late February. The sweetly scented flowers of both Vernal (Hamamelis vernalis) and Chinese (H. mollis) witchhazel bloom on mild sunny days in the Jenkins Daylily, English Woodland and Japanese Gardens. A few intermedia hybrids (Hamamelis x intermedia) are also beginning to bloom. A few precocious clumps of Giant snowdrop (Galanthus elwesii) blooming in the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens are testimony to the exceptionally mild early winter weather. Fruits of hollies are showy at this time of year. Especially noteworthy is the Winterberry hedge (Ilex verticillata‘Red Sprite’) in the Kemper Bird Garden. In the Cimatron many plants are flowering, including brunfelsia and chenile plant.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February 12, 2006 (Sun, 12 Feb 2006 10:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February 19, 2006 (Sun, 19 Feb 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Camellias are at peak in the Linnean House. Bedding primroses are becoming showy. The sweetly scented flowers of both Vernal (Hamamelis vernalis) and Chinese (H. mollis) witchhazel bloom on mild sunny days in the Jenkins Daylily, English Woodland and Japanese Gardens. A few intermedia hybrids (Hamamelis x intermedia) are also beginning to bloom. A few precocious clumps of Giant snowdrop (Galanthus elwesii) blooming in the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens are testimony to the exceptionally mild early winter weather. Fruits of hollies are showy at this time of year. Especially noteworthy is the Winterberry hedge (Ilex verticillata‘Red Sprite’) in the Kemper Bird Garden. Also noteworthy is the yellow fruited form of the American holly in the Holly Fields and Rhododendron Gardens. In the Cimatron many plants are flowering, including brunfelsia and chenile plant. Also note the large showy flowers of the clerodendrum bush Clerodendrum quadriloculare on the upper level of the Climatron near the exit to the Rock Garden. Enjoy the sweet scent of the fragrant honeysuckle bush on warm sunny days in the Scented and Woodland Gardens. Early crocus are flowering in the Jenkins Daylily Garden. Peek beneath the old leaves of Hellebores in the English Woodland Garden to see their first showy blooms. Enjoy the fragrances of spring blooming in the Shoenberg Temperate House. With an arctic front bearing down on the region expected to usher in a return to a more normal winter weather pattern, we can anticipate the potential for some damage to open flowers outdoors, and a general slowdown in the progression toward the arrival of spring.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February 26, 2006 (Sun, 26 Feb 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Camellias continue at peak in the Linnean House. Bedding primroses are becoming showy along with cyclamen. Vernal (Hamamelis vernalis) witchhazel is past peak but Chinese (H. mollis) witchhazel blooms on mild sunny days in the Jenkins Daylily, English Woodland and Japanese Gardens. Intermedia hybrids (Hamamelis x intermedia) are becoming showy. You can see several in the Jenkins Daylily Garden. Snowdrops are flowering at many locations around the Garden, including the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens. An early clump of reticulated iris is flowering in the Rock Garden. In the Cimatron many plants are flowering, including brunfelsia and chenile plant. Also note the large showy flowers of the clerodendrum bush Clerodendrum quadriloculare on the upper level of the Climatron near the exit to the Rock Garden. Enjoy the sweet scent of the fragrant honeysuckle bush on warm sunny days in the Scented and Woodland Gardens. Early crocus are flowering in the Jenkins Daylily Garden. Peek beneath the old leaves of Hellebores in the English Woodland Garden to see their first showy blooms. Enjoy the fragrances of spring blooming in the Shoenberg Temperate House.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March 5, 2006 (Sun, 05 Mar 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Camellias continue at peak in the Linnean House. Bedding primroses are becoming showy along with cyclamen. Vernal (Hamamelis vernalis) witchhazel is past peak but Chinese (H. mollis) witchhazel blooms on mild sunny days in the Jenkins Daylily, English Woodland and Japanese Gardens. Intermedia hybrids (Hamamelis x intermedia) are becoming showy. You can see several in the Jenkins Daylily Garden. Snowdrops are flowering at many locations around the Garden, including the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens. An early clump of reticulated iris is flowering in the Rock Garden. Winter aconite is also in flower and Narcissus 'Tête-á-tête' is just beginning to flower. In the Cimatron many plants are flowering, including brunfelsia and chenile plant. Also note the large showy flowers of the clerodendrum bush Clerodendrum quadriloculare on the upper level of the Climatron near the exit to the Rock Garden. Enjoy the sweet scent of the fragrant honeysuckle bush on warm sunny days in the Scented and Woodland Gardens. Early crocus are flowering in the Jenkins Daylily Garden. Peek beneath the old leaves of Hellebores in the English Woodland Garden to see their first showy blooms. Enjoy the fragrances of spring blooming in the Shoenberg Temperate House. Other noteworthy early flowering shrubs include white forsthia, winter jasmine, and American hazelnut.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March 12, 2006 (Sun, 12 Mar 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Camellias continue at peak in the Linnean House. Bedding primroses and cyclamen are also very showy. Intermedia witchhazel hybrids (Hamamelis x intermedia) are very showy. You can see several in the Jenkins Daylily Garden. Snowdrops and glory of the snow are flowering at many locations around the Garden, including the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens. Reticulated iris and miniature daffodils including Narcissus 'Tête-á-tête' are in full flower. Several of the taller daffodil cultivars are in full bud and will begin to flower this week. Striped squill can also be seen flowering in several locations around the Garden. In the Cimatron many plants are flowering, including brunfelsia and chenile plant. Note the jade vine on the lower level of the Climatron near the exit to the Brookings Interpretive Center. It should begin flowering this week. Enjoy the sweet scent of the fragrant honeysuckle bush on warm sunny days in the Scented and Woodland Gardens. Crocus are in full flower as are the Hellebores including those in the English Woodland Garden and the Strassenfest Garden. Enjoy the fragrances of spring blooming in the Shoenberg Temperate House. Other noteworthy early flowering shrubs include white forsthia, winter jasmine, and American hazelnut.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March 19, 2006 (Sun, 19 Mar 2006 10:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March 26, 2006 (Sun, 26 Mar 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Camellias are past peak in the Linnean House but still worth a visit. Bedding primroses and cyclamen continue to be showy. The Mexican orange is in full flower and is filling the house with its sweet scent. Most witchhazels are done flowering for the most part but they are being replaced by the winter hazels, such as Corylopsis sinensis. You can see several in the Jenkins Daylily Garden. Glory of the snow is flowering at many locations around the Garden, including the Mausoleum and the English Woodland Gardens. The flowering bulbs seem little affected by the recent cold temperatures and early daffodil cultivars are in full flower in many locations. From now through the end of April the spring flowering bulbs will be very showy in the bulb gardens. Striped squill can also be seen flowering in several locations. In the Cimatron many plants are flowering, including Clerodendrum splendens and pineapple plant. Note the jade vine on the lower level of the Climatron near the exit to the Brookings Interpretive Center. Enjoy the sweet scent of the fragrant honeysuckle bush on warm sunny days in the Scented and Woodland Gardens. Crocus are in full flower as are the Hellebores including those in the English Woodland Garden, the Strassenfest Garden, and near the entrance to the Kemper Center. Enjoy the beauty of spring blooming in the Shoenberg Temperate House. The weeping cherries and plums in the Japanese garden are past peak but still adding color. The end of this week the Yoshino cherries should be at peak. Freezing temperatures turned brown the early flowers of magnolias that were in flower or showing color, including the star magnolia, but the buds that were still tight were unaffected. Forsythia remain in full flower. Also note the flowers of the Bonfire flowering peach in the Kemper Vegetable Garden.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 2, 2006 (Sun, 2 Apr 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Camellias are past peak in the Linnean House but still worth a visit. Bedding primroses and cyclamen continue to be showy. The Mexican orange is in full flower and is filling the house with its sweet scent. Many early flowering shrubs should begin flowering this week, including the Koreanspice viburnum and Japanese flowering quince. Rhododendron P.J.M. in the Rhododendron Garden is in full bloom. An early flowering crab in the Heckman Bulb Garden may start to open the end of the week and glory of the snow continues to be showy here and in the Mausoleum area. The flowering bulbs are popping up all over and early daffodil cultivars are in full flower in many locations. From now through the end of April the spring flowering bulbs will be very showy in the bulb gardens. Siberian squill can also be seen flowering in several locations. In the Cimatron, many plants are flowering, including Clerodendrum splendens and pineapple plant. Note the jade vine on the lower level of the Climatron near the exit to the Brookings Interpretive Center. Also look for the pods on the cacao plant, the source of chocolate. You can still enjoy the sweet scent of the fragrant honeysuckle bush on warm sunny days in the Scented and Woodland Gardens. Crocus are also still in flower as are the Hellebores including those in the English Woodland Garden, the Strassenfest Garden, and near the entrance to the Kemper Center. Enjoy the beauty of spring blooming in the Shoenberg Temperate House. The weeping cherries and plums in the Japanese garden continue to add color. And, the Yoshino cherries are now in flower. This week should be peak flowering for cherries at the Garden. Freezing temperatures damaged the early flowers of many magnolias, including the star magnolia. Some of the late flowering varietes may still bloom as normal. Forsythia remain in full flower. Also note the flowers of the Bonfire flowering peach in the Kemper Vegetable Garden. Snow Fountains cherry in the Boxwood Garden is spectacular. Herbaceous perennials of note now flowering include: Virginia bluebells, pasque flower, and windflower. Our pansies came through the mild winter very well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden including in the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax are being planted. Plan now to visit the Garden and enjoy spring.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 9, 2006 (Sun, 9 Apr 2006 10:42:31 CST)

The petals on the flowering cherries are falling rapidly, but the flowering crabapples are now coming into full bloom. Other small flowering trees of note include: serviceberries and bird cherry. Redbud and white redbud are also in full flower. The flowering dogwoods are not far behind. Our pansies came through the mild winter very well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden including in the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax have been planted and are starting to flower. Herbaceous perennials of note now flowering include: Virginia bluebells, pasque flower, and windflower. Also of note are candytuft, bugleweed, and epimediums. The flowering bulbs are popping up all over with daffodil and tulip cultivars in full flower in many locations. From now through the end of April the spring flowering bulbs will be very showy in the bulb gardens. Don't miss the charming grape hyacinth as well as the true hyacinths. You can also still enjoy the beauty of spring blooming in the Shoenberg Temperate House. In the Climatron don’t' miss the unsual color of the jade vine located on the lower level of the Climatron near the exit to the Brookings Interpretive Center. Also look for the pods on the cacao plant, the source of chocolate. Many spring flowering shrubs are flowering this week, including the Koreanspice viburnum and Japanese flowering quince. Rhododendron P.J.M. in the Rhododendron Garden is in full bloom. Other shrubs to note are fothergilla and azaleas that will be flowering in many locations inlcuding the Azalea and Rhododendron Garden as well as in the Japanese Garden. A few camellias are still flowering in the Linnean House. Bedding primroses and cyclamen continue to be showy. Overhead in the hanging baskets is the lovely, sweet-smelling Jasminum polyanthum.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 16, 2006 (Sun, 16 Apr 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Several viburnums are in flower. Of note are the lantanaphyllum viburnum and nannyberry. The doublefile viburnums will be starting soon. Don't miss the spectacular wisteria and Kanzan cherries in the Japanese Garden. The tree peonies are also beginning to bloom. In the Kemper Center's Native Missouri Woodland Garden check out the unusual flowers of the paw paw. Golden ragwort and celendine poppy are turning the garden bright yellow. A wonderful woody plant to note is the Carolina allspice. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. You can also see a very nice plant of rosemary flowering in the Kemper Center's herb garden. The very mild, dry winter was well suited for its winter survival this year. Herbaceous perennials in bloom are too many to list all of them, but you will see fairy bells, Jacob's ladder, and small Solomon's seal. Also look for several lungworts beginning to flower as well as Siberian bugloss. Bleeding hearts are always welcome bloomers in any garden. You will also see woodland phlox as well as creeping phlox. The mountain bluet in the Strassenfest Garden is spectacular. The ground cover, Vinca minor, is flowering and the beautiful and well adapted Narcissus 'Thalia' makes an excellent bulb for any spring garden. Don't miss the spring flowering bulbs in the Mausoleum area when you pay your respects to the Garden's founder, Henry Shaw. Tulips remain in full flower around the Garden and should not be missed. The flowering crabapples are in full bloom. Lilacs will be starting this week. The bird cherry also continues to be very showy. Redbud, white redbud and the flowering dogwoods are in full flower. Our pansies came through the mild winter very well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden including in the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax are flowering nicely in beds and containers. Herbaceous perennials of note that continue in flower include: Virginia bluebells, pasque flower, and windflower. Also of note are candytuft, bugleweed, and epimediums. The flowering bulbs are popping up all over with daffodil and tulip cultivars in full flower in many locations. From now through the end of April the spring flowering bulbs will be very showy in the bulb gardens. Don't miss the charming grape hyacinth and Spring starflower. Other shrubs to note are fothergilla, both the dwarf and large species, and azaleas that will be flowering in many locations inlcuding the Azalea and Rhododendron Garden as well as in the Japanese Garden.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 23, 2006 (Sun, 23 Apr 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Azaleas are in full flower throughout the Garden and are stunning. Hawthorns are also now in flower. The irises are just beginning. Red buckeye, horsechestnut, and empress tree are three showy trees to note. Among the shrubs don't miss the slender deutzia and the black chokeberry. A large shrub or small tree of note is the fringetree. Blueberries are flowering now. The tasty fruit loved by both humans and birds, will ripen in July. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals in flower now are spiderwort, wild geranium and blue star. Columbine and some early coral bells are beginning to flower as is an early flowering sage, 'Viola Klose'. Don't miss the lovely Fremont's leather flower in the Kemper Center's rock garden. Snowdrop anemone is a rhizomatous plant that forms spreading patches. Its lovely white flowers are always welcome. Several viburnums are in flower. Of note are the lantanaphyllum viburnum, nannyberry, and the doublefile viburnum. The wisteria in the Japanese Garden is past peak but the tree peonies are in full flower. A few early, single-flowered herbaceous peonies have opened, but peak bloom will not be until about the first week in May. In the Kemper Center's Native Missouri Woodland Garden check out the unusual flowers of the paw paw. Golden ragwort and celendine poppy are turning the garden bright yellow. A wonderful woody plant to note is the Carolina allspice. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. There are also some weigelas starting to flower. Other perennials still in flower are fairy bells, Jacob's ladder, and small Solomon's seal. Also look for lungworts flowering as well as Siberian bugloss. Bleeding hearts continue to look lovely. You will also see woodland phlox as well as creeping phlox. The mountain bluet in the Strassenfest and Boxwood Gardens is spectacular. The ground cover, Vinca minor, is flowering. Don't miss the spring flowering bulbs in the Mausoleum area. The area is filled with Spanish bluebells. The flowering dogwoods are in full flower and lilacs will continue to perfume the Garden for a short while. Our pansies came through the mild winter very well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden including in the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax are flowering nicely in beds and containers. Two long-flowering herbaceous perennials of note that continue in flower are Virginia bluebells and pasque flower. Also of note are candytuft and bugleweed. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still very lovely late flowering daffodils and other bulbs in the bulb gardens. Around the Garden you will see Spanish bluebells and camassia in flower.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 30, 2006 (Sun, 30 Apr 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Azaleas are in full flower throughout the Garden and many evegreen rhododendrons are coming into bloom. The doublefile viburnums are continuing and the irises will be reaching full-flower this week. Red buckeye, horsechestnut, and empress tree continue in flower. Among the shrubs don't miss the slender deutzia and itea. A large shrub or small tree of note is the fringetree. The Kousa dogwood is starting to bloom as are spireas and ninebark. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals in flower are spiderwort, wild geranium and blue star. Columbine and some early coral bells are beginning to flower as is an early flowering sage, 'Viola Klose'. Don't miss the lovely Fremont's leather flower in the Kemper Center's rock garden. Snowdrop anemone is a rhizomatous plant that forms spreading patches. Its lovely white flowers are always welcome. Two lovely hydrangeas in flower around the end of the week will be oakleaf hydrangea and climbing hydrangea. Three trumpet honeysuckle cultivars all planted together in the Kemper Center's Herb Garden are striking. Don't miss the charming lily of the valley and the gorgeous Chinese ground orchid. Clematis are beginning to flower. A wonderful woody plant to note is the Carolina allspice. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. Weigelas and beautybush are also in flower. Other perennials still in flower are lungworts, wood phlox and small Solomon's seal. Don't miss the striking blue of false indigo, the lovely panicles of garden phlox and the charming flowers of the pincushion flower. Our pansies came through the mild winter very well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden including in the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax are flowering nicely in beds and containers. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still very lovely late tulips and wonderful flowering onions in flower. Around the Garden you will see Spanish bluebells in several locations.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May 7, 2006 (Sun, 7 May 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Peonies in the Japanese Garden and else where in the Garden are in full flower as are the irises. The doublefile viburnums are continuing. Red buckeye and horsechestnut continue in flower as do the beautiful, large-leaved rhododendrons. Among the shrubs don't miss the slender deutzia and itea. A large shrub or small tree of note is the fringetree. The Kousa dogwood is in full flower as are spireas and ninebark. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals in flower are spiderwort, wild geranium and blue star. Columbine and some early coral bells are beginning to flower as are the salvias including MAY NIGHT.Some woody plants of note are the Japanese snowbell, bigleaf magnolia, and the alternate-leaved butterfly bush in the Scented Garden. Two lovely hydrangeas in flower are the oakleaf hydrangea and climbing hydrangea. Tulip tree is also in flower. Three trumpet honeysuckle cultivars all planted together in the Kemper Center's Herb Garden are striking. Clematis is beginning to flower as is the gorgeous Chinese ground orchid. Carolina allspice is still flowering. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. Weigelas and beautybush have mostly finished flowering, but they are being replaced by mockoranges and shrub roses. Don't miss the striking blue of false indigo, the lovely panicles of garden phlox and the charming flowers of the pincushion flower. Our pansies continue at peak but will decline as hot temperatures arrive. The pansies and other spring-flowering annuals will soon be replaced with summer-flowering annuals. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still many very lovely flowering onions in flower. A couple interesting plants to see near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening when you stop by for lunch at the newly opened Terrace Café, include the sweet bay magnolia and the pitcher plants.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May 14, 2006 (Sun, 14 May 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Peonies in the Japanese Garden and else where in the Garden are almost past, but some late flowering ones are still very attractive. Irises are past peak but still very showy. Roses are starting to flower in many locations including our two rose gardens. Two large shrubs or small trees of note are smoketree and Japanese tree lilac. A vine of note is the Japanese hydrangea vine. Among the shrubs, the slender deutzia is still in flower and itea is just starting to flower. A very spreading shrub that can make a mid-size groundcover is the lace shrub. The Kousa dogwoods are stills in full flower; spireas and ninebark are mostly past. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals in flower are spiderwort, wild geranium and blue star. Columbines and coral bells are flowering as are the salvias including MAY NIGHT. Japanese snowbell is nearing the end of its bloom. Also of note is the bigleaf magnolia, and the alternate-leaved butterfly bush in the Scented Garden. Two lovely hydrangeas just starting to flower are the oakleaf hydrangea and climbing hydrangea. Tulip tree is also still in flower. Some lovely perennials to note are the spotted bellflower, the catnips, and the Missouri primrose. Many clematis are in flower as is the gorgeous Chinese ground orchid. Astilbes are starting to flower. Carolina allspice is still flowering. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. Some mockoranges are still in flower as are many more roses this week. Don't miss the striking blue of false indigo, the lovely panicles of garden phlox and the charming flowers of the pincushion flower. Our pansies and other spring-flowering annuals will soon be replaced with summer-flowering annuals. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still many very lovely flowering onions in flower. The next big show in the bulb gardens will be the true lilies starting in June. Three interesting plants to see near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening when you stop by for lunch at the newly opened Terrace Café, are the sweet bay magnolia, the pitcher plants, and the Dutchman's pipe.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May 21, 2006 (Sun, 21 May 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Peonies are well past peak, but you may still find a few very late flowering ones. Irises are also past peak but still very lovely. Roses are coming into full-flower in many locations around the Garden including our two rose gardens.The smoketree is still in flower and lindens are beginning. Their flowers are rather inconspicuous, but if one is close by you will smell its sweet perfume. A tree we get many questions about is the tricolor beech. Though not in flower, the very colorful leaves viewed from a distance gives the tree the appearance of being in bloom.Among the shrubs, the heavenly bamboo will be starting to flower. It is not a true bamboo and can be tender in St. Louis, but its evergreen leaves and showy, red winter berries make it a nice plant for a protected area. Itea continues in flower this week. A vine of note in the Kemper Center's Garden for All is the Japanese hydrangea vine.The Kousa dogwoods are past peak but some are still showy. The Japanese spireas, such as 'Little Princess' are starting to flower. Gray dogwood is also starting.Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals are spiderwort and wild geranium. You will also find a few flowers of blue star.Columbines and coral bells are flowering as are many salvias and sages including Salvia transsylvanica.You can still find some flowers on the bigleaf magnolia.An oakleaf hydrangeas at the Kemper Center has been flowering for a couple of weeks already, but most around the Garden will just be starting to flower this week. The climbing hydrangea is almost finished. Tulip trees may still have a few scattered, late flowers.Some lovely perennials to note are the spotted bellflower, the catnips, and the veronicas.Many clematis are now in full-flower and the gorgeous Chinese ground orchid still has some flowers. Astilbes are starting.You can still find some flowers on the Carolina allspice. If you find one, be sure and smell it. Some mockoranges are still in flower. You will also find some penstemons blooming, including the gorgeous, Penstemon cobaea.Don't miss the last of the striking blue of false indigo. The lovely panicles of garden phlox and the charming flowers of the pincushion flower will be around for many weeks. Our summer annuals trail bed has been planted and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are being planted throughout the Garden.The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still some very lovely flowering onions. The next big show in the bulb gardens will be the true lilies starting in June.Three interesting plants to see near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening when you stop by for lunch at the newly opened Terrace Café, are the sweet bay magnolia, the pitcher plants, and the Dutchman's pipe.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May 28, 2006 (Sun, 28 May 2006 10:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June 4, 2006 (Sun, 04 Jun 2006 10:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June 11, 2006 (Sun, 11 Jun 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Lilies are flowering in many locations around the Garden including the two bulb gardens as well as the Kemper Center. The Japanese iris in the Japanese Garden are past peak and will be mostly finished by the end of the week. The sacred lotus will be starting around the end of the week. The big leaf hydrangeas including 'Tokyo Delight' are beginning. Roses are still flowering in many locations around the Garden including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias are still flowering and elderberry has begun. A tree we get many questions about is the tricolor beech. Though not in flower, the very colorful leaves viewed from a distance gives the tree the appearance of being in bloom. Among the shrubs, the heavenly bamboo is still flowering. It is not a true bamboo and can be tender in St. Louis, but its evergreen leaves and showy, red winter berries make it a nice plant for a protected area. The beautiful prairie rose is in full-flower as is one of the Plants of Merit, bottlebrush buckeye. Daylilies are beginning to flower. They would look lovely combined with Japanese spireas or Stachys 'Hummelo'. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals continuing in flower are spiderwort and wild geranium. In the Kemper Center's rock garden be sure and see the showy prickly pear cactus. Gaura and coral bells are flowering as are some St. John's worts including 'Hidcote'. One of the earliest of the ornamental grasses to flower is feather reed grass. You will also see Ural false spirea and purple coneflowers. Oakleaf hydrangeas are in full flower and in the Japanese Garden the combination of baloon flower with butterfly weed is striking. Yarrows are beginning to flower in many locations along with coreopsis. Either would be striking planted with the lavindin cultivar 'Grosso' in the Kemper Herb Garden, which is spectacular. Clematis are in full-flower as are many of the astilbes. The purple poppy mallow has started and the Missouri primrose is still flowering. The Chinese trumpet creeper in the Kemper Bird Garden is in full flower. In the Kemper Center's flower trial area the Shasta daisy 'Sunny Side Up' is lovely as is Stokes' aster 'Peach Melba'. In the Woodland Garden the gooseneck loosestrife is charming, but beware. This aggressive grower can take over your garden! Bear's breeches is an unusual and lovely plant. The lovely spikes of red hot poker are dramatic. The charming flowers of the pincushion flower will be around for many more weeks. In the Kemper Center's herb garden three cultivars of trumpet honeysuckle planted next to each other are back in flower and are spectacular. Our summer annuals trail bed is growing rapidly and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, have been planted throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Three interesting plants to see near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening when you stop by for lunch at the newly opened Terrace Café, are the sweet bay magnolia, the pitcher plants, and the mint-shrub.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June 18, 2006 (Sun, 18 Jun 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Lilies are in full flower in many locations around the Garden including the two bulb gardens as well as the Kemper Center. Big leaf hydrangeas including 'Tokyo Delight' are coming into full flower in many locations. In the Japanese Garden the sacred lotus will be starting around the end of the week. Roses are still flowering in many locations including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias are still flowering and the Japanese stewartia will be in flower for a short time. A tree we get many questions about is the tricolor beech. Though not in flower, the very colorful leaves viewed from a distance gives the tree the appearance of being in bloom. The buttonbush has a very interesting flower and the flowers on sumac promise a nice crop of red berries for the fall. The bottlebrush buckeye, a Plant of Merit, is still in full flower and should not be missed. Daylilies are coming into full flower. They would look lovely combined with Japanese spireas or Stachys 'Hummelo'. Around town and at the Garden you will see mimosa and 'Annabelle' hydrangea in flower. In the Rhododendron Garden don't miss the charming flowers of the sourwood. Gaura and coral bells are flowering as are thr St. John's worts including 'Hidcote'. One of the earliest of the ornamental grasses to flower is feather reed grass. You will also see the charming bottle brush grass and many cultivars of purple coneflowers. Oakleaf hydrangeas are still in full flower and in the Japanese Garden the combination of balloon flower with butterfly weed is striking. Yarrows are in full flower in many locations along with coreopsis. Either would be striking planted with the lavindin cultivar 'Grosso' in the Kemper Herb Garden, which is spectacular. Most of the clematis have finished their spring flush of flowers but serveral cultivars will repeat flowering throughout the summer. Astilbes are in flower in many locations. The purple poppy mallow has started and the leadplant looks regal with its silvery foliage and purple flowers. The Chinese trumpet creeper in the Kemper Bird Garden is in full flower. In the Kemper Center's flower trial area the Shasta daisy 'Sunny Side Up' is lovely as is Stokes' aster 'Peach Melba'. Many blue-flowered cultivars of Stokes' aster are blooming around the Garden. Bear's breeches is an unusual and lovely plant. The lovely spikes of red hot poker are dramatic. The charming flowers of the pincushion flower will be around for many more weeks. In the Kemper Center's herb garden three cultivars of trumpet honeysuckle planted next to each other are back in flower and are spectacular. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas are mostly grown for their foliage but they also have attractive flowers, which can be seen in many locations. Our summer annuals trail bed is growing rapidly and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, have been planted throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Two interesting plants to see near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening when you stop by for lunch at the newly opened Terrace Café, are the sweet bay magnolia and the pitcher plants, which are still in flower.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June 25, 2006 (Sun, 25 Jun 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Lilies are in full flower in many locations including the two bulb gardens as well as the Kemper Center. Big leaf hydrangeas including 'Tokyo Delight' are coming into full flower. In the Japanese Garden the sacred lotus is in flower. Roses are still flowering in many locations including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias still have fragrant flowers and golden raintrees have turned yellow with flowers. Tamarisk can also be seen in flower. The buttonbush has a very interesting flower and the flowers on sumac promise a nice crop of red berries for the fall. The bottlebrush buckeye is mostly past peak, but a few plants in the Boxwood Garden have yet to begin. Daylilies are in full flower. They would look lovely combined with Russian sage or Stachys 'Hummelo'. Three very showy rose of Sharon's in flower are 'Diana', 'Minerva', and 'Aphrodite'. Many beebalms are flowering as are the St. John's worts including 'Hidcote'. You can see the charming bottle brush grass in the Woodland Garden. Many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers are in flower. Oakleaf hydrangeas are mostly past and in the Japanese Garden the combination of balloon flower with butterfly weed is striking. Yarrows are in full flower in many locations along with coreopsis. In the Kemper Herb Garden the lavindin cultivar 'Grosso' is still spectacular. Most of the clematis have finished their spring flush of flowers but serveral cultivars will repeat flowering throughout the summer. Most astilbes are past, but a few are still showy. At the Kemper Center the giant hysop cultivar 'Honey Bee Blue' is most atractive and the flowers of the flat sea holly are most beguiling. The Chinese trumpet creeper in the Kemper Bird Garden is in full flower. In the Kemper Center's flower trial area the Shasta daisy 'Sunny Side Up' is lovely as is Stokes' aster 'Peach Melba'. Many blue-flowered cultivars of Stokes' aster are blooming around the Garden. Bear's breeches is an unusual and lovely plant. The lovely spires of red hot poker are dramatic. Some garden phlox are beginning to flower. In the Kemper Center's herb garden three cultivars of trumpet honeysuckle planted next to each other are back in flower and are spectacular. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas are mostly grown for their foliage but they also have attractive flowers, which can be seen in many locations. Mimosa is still in flower and the chaste tree has begun. Our summer annuals trail bed is growing rapidly and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, have been planted throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. An attractive native woodland flower is black cohosh. It adds charm to any woodland setting. Finally, two interesting plants to see at the Kemper Center are the variegated oxeye daisy LORAINE SUNSHINE and the kalimeris cultivar 'Hortensis'

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 2, 2006 (Sun, 2 Jul 2006 10:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 9, 2006 (Sun, 9 Jul 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Lilies are past peak but still a few late bloomers are showy. Daylilies continue in full bloom. Some big leaf hydrangeas are still showy and some Pee Gee hydrangeas are blooming. In the Japanese Garden the sacred lotus is past peak but still worth a visit. Roses are still flowering in many locations including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias still have fragrant flowers and the flowers on the golden raintrees have turned into inflated seed pods. Crape myrtles are beginning to flower. Summer sweet is starting as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Most of the bottlebrush buckeye plants have finished flowering but a few are still in bloom. Butterfly bush is blooming and Russian sage continues. Abelia is a long-flowering shrub. Three very showy rose of Sharon's in flower are 'Diana', 'Minerva', and 'Aphrodite'. Many beebalms are flowering and plumbago has started in some locations. Rattlesnake master is an ususual plant and many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers are in flower. Meadow rue is attractive and balloon flower continues. The large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, agapanthus and crinums. Most of the clematis have finished their spring flush of flowers but serveral cultivars will repeat flowering throughout the summer. Most astilbes are past, but the Chinese astilbe is still showy. Blackberry lily is just starting. At the Kemper Center the giant hysop cultivar 'Honey Bee Blue' is most atractive and the flowers of the flat sea holly and globe thistle are very attractive. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see Culver's root, western ironweed, and Joe Pye weed. Tropical waterlilies are beginning to bloom. The lovely spires of blazing star are dramatic. Many garden phlox are flowering. In the Kemper Center's herb garden three cultivars of trumpet honeysuckle planted next to each other are still showy. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas are mostly grown for their foliage but they also have attractive flowers. Some are still in flower. Mimosa is still in flower around town and the chaste trees at the Garden are magnificent. Our summer annuals trial bed is in full flower and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. An attractive native woodland flower is black cohosh. It adds charm to any woodland setting. You will also see the colorful leaves of caladiums in many shady locations.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 16, 2006 (Sun, 16 Jul 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Lilies are well past peak but still a few late bloomers are showy. Some lovely large-flowered dahlias can be seen in the bulb gardens. Daylilies are past peak but still very showy. A few big leaf hydrangeas are still showy and some Pee Gee hydrangeas are blooming. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Roses are still flowering in many locations including our two rose gardens. The Japanese pagoda tree is beginning and many crepe myrtles are coming into full bloom. Summer sweets are flowering as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Most of the bottlebrush buckeye plants have finished flowering but a few are still in bloom. Their bloom time is quite variable depending upon location. Butterfly bush is blooming and Russian sage continues. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Three very showy rose of Sharons still in flower are 'Diana', 'Minerva', and 'Aphrodite'. Many beebalms are still flowering and plumbago has started in several locations. Rattlesnake master is an ususual plant and many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers are in flower. Meadow rue is attractive and balloon flower continues. The large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, agapanthus and crinums. The late-flowering Chinese astilbe is still showy and a great choice for color in the shade. Blackberry and candy lilies are flowering. At the Kemper Center the giant hysop cultivar 'Honey Bee Blue' is still a show-stopper and the flowers of the flat sea holly and globe thistle are still attractive. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see Culver's root, western ironweed, and Joe Pye weed. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Many garden phlox are flowering. In the Kemper Center's herb garden three cultivars of trumpet honeysuckle planted next to each other are still showy. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas are mostly grown for their foliage but they also have attractive flowers. Some are still in flower. Mimosa is still in flower and the chaste trees at the Garden are very attractive large shrubs. Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. An attractive native woodland flower is black cohosh. It is coming to the end of its bloom but can add charm to any woodland setting. The pollia in the Woodland Garden is showy as are the fruit on the Italian arum plants, which are turning orange. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already, the blue salvia in the Rock Garden, and the nodding onion.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 23, 2006 (Sun, 23 Jul 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Several trees were uprooted or damaged in the July 19th storm but clean-up has progressed rapidly and the Garden is lovely with dayliles, roses and many summer annuals in flower. A few big leaf hydrangeas are still showy and some Pee Gee hydrangeas are blooming. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. The Japanese pagoda tree is flowering as are many crepe myrtles. Summer sweets are flowering as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Butterfly bush continues in bloom as does Russian sage. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Many beebalms are still flowering and plumbago is flowering in several locations. Rattlesnake master is an ususual plant and many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers can be seen. Meadow rue is attractive and balloon flower continues. The large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. The late-flowering Chinese astilbe is still showy in a few locations and a great choice for color in the shade. Blackberry and candy lilies are flowering. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see slender mountain mint, western ironweed, and obedient plant. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Many garden phlox are flowering. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas provide colorful leaves for shady gardens. "Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. You can view our top 20 picks from the 2005 trials in the Trials (http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/cvratings_top.asp?order=top) area of our web site. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden." Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. The pollia in the Woodland Garden is showy as are the fruit on the Italian arum plants, which are turning orange. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already, the blue salvia in the Rock Garden, and the nodding onion.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 30, 2006 (Sun, 30 Jul 2006 10:42:31 CST)

The Japanese pagoda tree is still flowering and crape myrtles are lovely and very tolerant of summer heat. A few daylilies are still showy and roses continue in flower. The summer annuals are in full summer glory. Pee Gee hydrangea is blooming as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Summer sweets are finishing flowering but the chaste tree in the herb garden is very attractive and a few early bluebeards are coming into flower. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Many beebalms are still flowering as are the Joe Pye weeds. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Rattlesnake master is an ususual plant and many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers can be seen. Balloon flower continues and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Surprise lilies are always a welcome sight. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Blackberry and candy lilies are still in flower. Many garden phlox are flowering. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see slender mountain mint, western ironweed, and obedient plant. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Pickerel weed is also flowering in several locations. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas provide colorful leaves for shady gardens. "Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. You can view our top 20 picks from the 2005 trials in the Trials (http://www.mobot.org/gardeninghelp/plantfinder/cvratings_top.asp?order=top) area of our web site. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already and the blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August 6, 2006 (Sun, 6 Aug 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses also continue and the summer annuals are in full glory. Pee Gee hydrangea is blooming as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree in the herb garden is very attractive. Some bluebeards are coming into flower. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. ome beebalms continue as do the Joe Pye weeds. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Compass plant is coming into flower but the purple coneflowers are past prime. Many other coneflowers can also be seen. Balloon flower continues and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Surprise or magic lilies are always a welcome sight. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and Chinese trumpet vine. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see slender mountain mint, western ironweed, and obedient plant. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Pickerel weed is also flowering in several locations. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas provide colorful leaves for shady gardens. Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. You can view our top 20 picks from the 2005 trials in the Trials area of our web site. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already and the blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August 13, 2006 (Sun, 13 Aug 2006 10:42:31 CST)

Crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses also continue and the summer annuals are in full glory. Hydrangea 'Tardiva' is still in flower. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree in the herb garden is still very attractive. Bluebeards are coming into flower. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Turtlehead is flowering and the Joe Pye weeds continue. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Compass plant is coming into flower but the purple coneflowers are past prime. Many other coneflowers can still be seen. The seven-son flower is just beginning and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Surprise or magic lilies are always a welcome sight. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and Chinese trumpet vine. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see slender mountain mint and obedient plant. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Pickerel weed is also flowering in several locations. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia and the large-flowered fragrant hosta as well as others. Hostas also provide colorful leaves for shady gardens. "Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. You can view our top 20 picks from the 2005 trials in the Trials area of our web site. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden." Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already and the blue salvia. Don't miss the unusual flowers of the buttonbush in a pool in front of the Linnean House.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August 20, 2006 (Fri, 18 Aug 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Fall is approaching but the crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses are coming back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still in full glory. Hydrangea 'Tardiva' is still in flower. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree in the herb garden is still very attractive. Bluebeards are flowering. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. It has a long period of bloom. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Turtlehead is flowering and the Joe Pye weeds continue. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Compass plant is flowering and some coneflowers can still be seen. The seven-son flower is just beginning and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Surprise or magic lilies are reaching the end of their flowering. In the bulb gardens you can still see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and Chinese trumpet vine. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Some fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome', are starting to flower. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia and the large-flowered fragrant hosta as well as others. "Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. You can view our top 20 picks from the 2005 trials in the Trials area of our web site. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden." Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already and the blue salvia. Don't miss the unusual flowers of the buttonbush in a pool in front of the Linnean House.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August 27, 2006 (Fri, 25 Aug 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Fall is approaching but the crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses are coming back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still showy. Hydrangea 'Tardiva' is still in flower. The cardinal flower is almost past. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree in the herb garden still has some flowers. Bluebeards are flowering. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Turtlehead is flowering and the Joe Pye weeds are past prime. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Compass plant is flowering and some coneflowers can still be seen. The seven-son flower is flowering and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. In the bulb gardens you can still see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and Chinese trumpet vine. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Some fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome', are starting to flower. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. "Our summer annuals trial beds are winding down and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. You can view our top 20 picks from the 2005 trials in the Trials area of our web site. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already and the blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 3, 2006 (Fri, 1 Sep 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Fall is approaching but the crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses are coming back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still showy. A few Hydrangea 'Tardiva' are still in flower. The cardinal flower is almost past but bush clover is starting. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree is still gorgeous. Bluebeards are flowering. Some butterfly bushes continue in bloom and several miscanthus are displaing their showy panicles. Rose of Sharons continue and the castor aralia is in flower near the eastern entrance to the Japanese Garden. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are starting. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. In the prairie and butterfly gardens the compass plant is flowering. Also, don't miss the beautify passion vine. The seven-son flower is flowering and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Don't miss the late-flowering golden rain tree. It is very welcome as a lovely late-flowering tree. In the bulb gardens you can still see dahlias, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are still in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and Chinese trumpet vine. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Some fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome', are starting to flower. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops which are beginning to flower. Our summer annuals trial beds are winding down and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. The beds are still worth a visit. Other summer flowering annuals you can still see are vincas and petunias throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you can still see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for and enjoy are the Japanese anemones and the blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 10, 2006 (Fri, 8 Sep 2006 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 17, 2006 (Fri, 15 Sep 2006 08:42:31 CST)

In the bulb gardens you can still see dahlias, caladiums and crinums. Also, don't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas. Liriope is stil flowering and the sweet autumn clematis is in full-flower is several locations. Cooler temperatures have brought nice fall flowering on several spiderworts, obedient plants, and gauras. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper experimental garden. In the Japanese garden, the balloon flowers are very showy. In the Kemper Fragrance Garden smell the sweet blooms of the tuberose and enjoy the lovely blue of the long-flowering Russian sage. Crape myrtles continue in flower and add bright colors to early fall. Roses have come back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still showy but are being replaced with mums and other fall-bloomers. Both blue and red cardinal flowers are in flower as well as the bush clovers. The fountain grasses are lovely and the chaste tree is still gorgeous. Bluebeards are in full-flower. Some butterfly bushes continue in bloom and miscanthus are displaing their showy panicles. Rose of Sharons continue and the castor aralia is in flower near the eastern entrance to the Japanese Garden. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are starting. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. In the prairie and butterfly gardens the compass plant is flowering. Be sure and smell the flowers on the prairie dropseed. The seven-son flower is in full-flower and the solitary clematis is lovely. Some early beautyberries have showy fruit. Many garden phlox are still in flower but they will soon be outdone by the fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome'. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. In the Woodland Garden you will see white snake root. The Japanese anemones and coming into full-flower and the blue salvia is still striking. Monkshood will be flowering soon in the Ottoman Garden. Our summer annuals are being replaced with fall blooming plants but you will still see vincas and petunias throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Some plants you can still see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 24, 2006 (Fri, 22 Sep 2006 08:42:31 CST)

In the bulb gardens you can still see dahlias, caladiums and crinums. Also, don't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas. Liriope and autumn clematis is still flowering in several locations. Cooler temperatures have brought nice fall flowering on several spiderworts, obedient plants, and gauras. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper experimental garden. In the Japanese garden, the balloon flowers are still very showy. Crape myrtles continue in flower and add bright colors to early fall. Roses have come back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still showy but are being replaced with mums and other fall-bloomers. Both blue and red cardinal flowers are in flower as well as the bush clovers. The ornamental grasses are lovely. Bluebeards are in full-flower. Some butterfly bushes continue in bloom and miscanthus are displaying their showy panicles. Rose of Sharons continue and the castor aralia is just finishing flowering near the eastern entrance to the Japanese Garden. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are flowering. Plumbago is still showy in several locations. The seven-son flower is still in full-flower and the solitary clematis is lovely. Some early beautyberries have showy fruit. Some garden phlox are still in flower but they are being outdone by the fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome'. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. The Japanese anemones are in flower and the blue salvia is still gorgeous. Monk's-hood is flowering in the Ottoman Garden. It has very striking and unusual flowers. Some summer annuals you will still see are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Some plants you can still see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 1, 2006 (Fri, 29 Sep 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Summer bedding plants are rapidly being replaced with mums, pansies and other fall-blooming plants. Hanging baskets of mums are also showing up all over the Garden. In the bulb gardens the dahlias are loving the cooler temperatures. Caladiums and crinums can still be seen. Also, don't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas, which will be showy until the first frost usually around October 15th. Liriope has mostly finished blooming. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it is especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. Cooler temperatures continue to bring nice fall flowering on several spiderworts and gauras. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper experimental garden. In the Japanese garden, the balloon flowers are still very showy. Crape myrtles continue in flower and add bright colors to fall. Roses continue with their fall display. Some summer annuals will remain until frost. The blue cardinal flower is still striking in the Woodland Garden. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Some bluebeards are still in flower. Butterfly bushes will continue to bloom until frost and some miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Rose of Sharons continue and the red berries on the prickly ash are striking. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are flowering. Plumbago can still be found in flower. The seven-son flower is past peak. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit. Fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. You can find short, ground hugging ones like the lovely heath aster as well as many mid-sized varieties. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden you can still enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Tropical waterlilies continue. The impressive Amazon water lily also has several flowers. In the Prairie Garden the combination of New England asters, goldenrods and willow-leaved sunflower is striking. In shady areas you can still enjoy the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. Several of the Japanese anemones are still in flower and the blue salvia is still gorgeous. Monk's-hood is flowering in the Ottoman Garden. It has very striking and unusual flowers. Some summer annuals you will still see are begonias, ageratum and pentas. You will also still see Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and impatiens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 8, 2006 (Fri, 6 Oct 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color is starting with sassafras and dogwood. Before long the Garden will be bright colors of yellow, orange, and red. Mums, pansies and other fall-blooming plants have been planted throughout the Garden. Hanging baskets of mums are also showing up all over the Kemper Center gardens. In the bulb gardens the dahlias are loving the cooler temperatures. Caladiums and crinums can still be seen. Also, don't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas, which will be showy until the first frost usually around October 15th. Liriope has mostly finished blooming. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it is especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. Mexican bush sage is very attractive. Cooler temperatures continue to bring nice fall flowering on several spiderworts and gauras. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper experimental garden. In the Japanese garden, the balloon flowers are still very showy. Crape myrtles are almost finished for the year. Roses continue with their fall display. Some summer annuals will remain until frost, after which they will be replaced with spring-blooming bulbs. The blue cardinal flower is still attractive in the Woodland Garden. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Don't miss the lovely willow-leaved sunflower 'First Light' in the Kemper Bird Garden. Butterfly bushes will continue with sparse bloom until frost but some miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. The red berries on the prickly ash in the Native Garden are striking. Turtlehead continues with a few last flowers and the goldenrods are flowering. Plumbago can still be found in flower. Fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. You can find short, ground hugging ones like the lovely heath aster as well as many mid-sized varieties. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden you can still enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Tropical waterlilies continue. The impressive Amazon water lily also has several flowers. In the Prairie Garden the combination of New England asters, goldenrods and willow-leaved sunflower is striking. Several of the Japanese anemones are still in flower and the blue salvia is still gorgeous. Monk's-hood is flowering in the Ottoman Garden. It has very striking and unusual flowers. Some summer annuals you will still see are begonias, vincas, and pentas. You will also still see Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and impatiens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 15, 2006 (Fri, 13 Oct 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color is starting with sassafras and dogwood. Before long the Garden will be bright colors of yellow, orange, and red. Mums, pansies and other fall-blooming plants have been planted throughout the Garden. Hanging baskets of mums are also showing up all over the Kemper Center gardens. Don't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas in the bulb gardens, which will be showy until the first frost usually around October 15th. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it is especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. Mexican bush sage is very attractive. The fall color on itea is very attractive. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper experimental garden. In the Japanese garden, the mum display is well worth the walk to view. Roses continue with their fall display. Some summer annuals will remain until frost, after which they will be replaced with spring-blooming bulbs. The blue cardinal flower is still attractive in the Woodland Garden. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Don't miss the lovely willow-leaved sunflower 'First Light' in the Kemper Bird Garden. Butterfly bushes will continue with sparse bloom until frost but some miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. The red berries on the prickly ash in the Native Garden are striking. Turtlehead continues with a few last flowers and the goldenrods are still flowering. Fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. You can find short, ground hugging ones like the lovely heath aster as well as many mid-sized varieties. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden you can still enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. In the Prairie Garden the combination of New England asters, goldenrods and willow-leaved sunflower is striking. Several of the Japanese anemones are still in flower. Monk's-hood is flowering in the Ottoman Garden. It has very striking and unusual flowers. Some summer annuals you will still see are begonias, vincas, and pentas. You will also still see Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and impatiens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 22, 2006 (Fri, 20 Oct 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color is peaking with sassafras, dogwood, and burning bush. You can also enjoy many maples, witchhazels, and ashes. The fruit on many crabapples is also showy. Mums, pansies and other fall-blooming plants have been planted throughout the Garden. Hanging baskets of mums are also showing up all over the Kemper Center gardens. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it is especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. Mexican bush sage is very attractive as is itea. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. And allow enough time to walk through the Japanese garden, the mum display and fall color is well worth the walk to view. A few roses continue with their fall display. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. The red berries on the prickly ash in the Native Garden are striking. Fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. You can find short, ground hugging ones like the lovely heath aster as well as many mid-sized varieties. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden, you will see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. In the Prairie Garden the combination of New England asters and goldenrods is still showy. A few Japanese anemones are still in flower and Monk's-hood in the Ottoman Garden is still striking. It has very unusual flowers. A few summer annuals you may still see until a hard frost are begonias, vincas, and petunias.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 29, 2006 (Fri, 27 Oct 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Highlights in the Garden are fall color and mums. Come and view the striking sassafras near Tower Grove House and enjoy dogwood and burning bush throughout the Garden. You can also marvel at the many colors in the maples, witchhazels, and ashes. The fruit on many crabapples is also showy. Mums and pansies continue to be showy. The pansies will remain all winter to return in Spring to bloom with the spring bulbs. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it's last flowers are especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. Mexican bush sage remains in a few locations and is still very attractive as is itea. You can still find some of the wonderful toad lilies. And allow enough time to walk through the Japanese garden, the mum display and fall color is well worth the walk to view. A few roses continue to flower. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit with a very bright unusual color. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. The red berries on the prickly ash in the Native Garden are still striking. Though past peak, fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. Take note of 'Jindai' and 'Purple Dome'. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden, you will see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. The bluestars have very nice fall color and some goldenrods are still showy. The Japanese anemones are mostly finished but the Monk's-hood in the Ottoman Garden is still striking. It has very unusual flowers.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November 5, 2006 (Fri, 3 Nov 2006 08:42:31 CST)

This past week fall color was spectacular in the Garden. There is still much to enjoy, such as the chestnut brown of bald cypress, the golden yellow of ginkgo and the bright fuschia to red of burning bush. You can also marvel at the many colors in the maples, the clear yellow in the witchhazels, and the colorful fruit on many crabapples. Mums are past and have been replaced with pansies underplanted with tulips for a spectacular spring bloom. In the Japanese Garden, however, the cascading mums are still very attractive. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it's last flowers are especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. Note it in combination with fothergilla near the entrance to the Climatron. Itea continues to be colorful in some areas. A few roses still in tight bud may yet open if warm weather continues, but for the most part roses have finished for the year. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit with a very bright unusual color, but it is short-lived. Most are past. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. The red berries on the prickly ash in the Native Garden are still striking. Though well past peak, some fall asters are still flowering. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden, you will see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November 12, 2006 (Fri, 10 Nov 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color has been outstanding this fall. And there are still treasures to be seen. It is rare to see a shrub just come into full flower this time of year but that is what the common witch-hazel does. Its light lemon-yellow flowers can be enjoyed in several locations. The fruit on the heavenly bamboo is also noteworthy. You can still enjoy the chestnut-brown of the bald cypress, but as soon as the leaves of ginkgo turn yellow they drop. You may not see may leaves on the trees but the yellow carpet below is delightful. Berries on American holly are also very showy. Some Ozark witch hazels still have attractive yellow leaves and the fruit on the crabapples becomes more visible after the leaves fall. Pansies are thriving in many beds underplanted with tulips for a spectacular spring blooom. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it's last flowers are especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. It is almost past, but still note it in combination with fothergilla near the entrance to the Climatron. Itea continues to be colorful in some areas. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Though well past peak, some fall asters are still flowering. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden, you will see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November 19, 2006 (Fri, 17 Nov 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color has been outstanding this fall but this past week leaves dropped rapidly and winter is on its way. There are still some treasures to be seen though. It is rare to see a shrub that comes into full flower this time of year but that is what the common witch-hazel does. Its light lemon-yellow flowers can be enjoyed in several locations. The fruit on the heavenly bamboo is also noteworthy. Fruit on hollies and crabapples are still very attractive. Pansies are thriving in many beds underplanted with tulips for a spectacular spring bloom. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Some iteas at the Kemper Center still have colorful leaves. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden, you will see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Now is a great time to appreciate the form, structure, and bark of trees and shrubs. Evergreens also add welcome green to the winter landscape.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November 26, 2006 (Fri, 24 Nov 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Eastern witch-hazel is still flowering in a few locations and the fruit on the heavenly bamboo is noteworthy. Pansies continue to be very colorful. Fruit on hollies and crabapples are still very attractive. Also take note of the fruit on the coralberry, which is a Missouri native. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Some iteas still have colorful leaves. Plants with other noteworty winter features are the berries on winterberries and the attractive bark on the paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods add bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens and impatiens. Now is also a great time to take a closer look at many of the superb evergreens growing in the Garden. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Norway spruce is a good large growing evegreen for the area and sawara cypress makes a dependable evegreen under 6 feet tall.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December 3, 2006 (Fri, 1 Dec 2006 08:42:31 CST)

The recent ice storm damaged several trees in the Garden but one can't deny that the effect of the ice on the trees has been a very special visual treat. When the sun came out the trees sparkled. The Japanese Garden was particularly picturesque and even lowly ornamental grasses took on a new life. As the ice melts the common witch-hazel will still be flowering in a few locations and the fruit on the heavenly bamboo will still be noteworthy. Pansies are covered by snow now but will be back for spring. Fruit on hollies and crabapples are still very attractive. Also take note of the fruit on the coralberry, which is a Missouri native. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Plants with other noteworty winter features are the berries on winterberries and the attractive bark on the paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods add bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens and impatiens. Some white pines and arborvitae suffered greatly from the ice but others have come through with very little damage. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Norway spruce shed the ice well and is a good large growing evegreen for the area. Sawara cypress also saw little damage. It makes a dependable evegreen under 6 feet tall.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December 10, 2006 (Fri, 8 Dec 2006 08:42:31 CST)

The beautiful structure of trees around the Garden continue to brighten the winter landscape as winter sets in and the fruit on the heavenly bamboo is still noteworthy. Pansies are peaking through the snow and in warm weather you may catch a flower hear and there but the real show won't be back until spring. Fruit on hollies and crabapples are still very attractive. Also take note of the fruit on the coralberry, which is a Missouri native. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Plants with other noteworty winter features are the berries on winterberries and the attractive bark on the paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods add bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens and impatiens. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Norway spruce is a good large growing evegreen for the area. Sawara cypress makes a dependable garden evegreen under 6 feet tall.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December 17, 2006 (Fri, 15 Dec 2006 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December 24, 2006 (Fri, 22 Dec 2006 08:42:31 CST)

The shortest day of the year is behind us and on nice days it feels like spring but we still have two months of winter. Still a walk through the Garden may delight with some early flowers on an x intermedia witch-hazel that typically blooms in February. You also can't help but appreciate the many beaurtiful dogwoods grown for their colorful winter stems. Winter is also a wonderful time to appreciate the beautiful structure of trees around the Garden as well as views hidden in summer with foliage. The heavenly bamboo still has some fruit and the warm weather has brought out a few pansy flowers. Some hollies and crabapples still have some fruit, but they slowly disappear as they are eaten by birds. The fruit on the coralberry, which is a Missouri native, is still noteworthy for this time of year. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Some other plants with noteworthy winter bark are Japanese stewartia, paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods add bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens and impatiens. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Also appreciate the many evergreen around the Garden, which add texture to the winter scene. "This concludes our first year of Plants in Bloom podcasts. We hope you have enjoyed them and return in 2007 to learn more about the plant treasures at the Garden. As always, you can learn more about these plant by going to www.mobot.org and clicking on "Plants in Bloom."

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 1, 2007 (Fri, 29 Dec 2006 08:42:31 CST)

Warm weather has brought forth flowers on a number of the witch-hazels in the Garden. You will see some x intermedia hybrids in flower as well as the Ozark and Chinese witch-hazels. You can also enjoy the sweet scent of winter and fragrant honeysuckles, the beauty of winter jasmine, and the stunning Christmas rose. Winter is also a wonderful time to appreciate the beautiful structure of trees around the Garden as well as views hidden in summer with foliage. The heavenly bamboo still has some fruit and the warm weather has brought out a few pansy flowers. Some hollies still have some fruit, but they slowly disappear as they are eaten by birds. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Some other plants with noteworthy winter bark are Japanese stewartia, paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods add bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens and impatiens. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Also appreciate the many evergreen around the Garden, which add texture to the winter scene.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 7, 2007 (Fri, 5 Jan 2007 08:42:31 CST)

The warm weather has brought out some very early flowers on the Japnaese apricot in the Chinese garden. You can also enjoy the bright yellow flowers of the winter jasmine. In the Japanese garden some pussy willows are just starting to come out. A number of the witch-hazels are in flower. You will see some x intermedia hybrids in flower as well as the Ozark and Chinese witch-hazels. You can also enjoy the sweet scent of winter and fragrant honeysuckles and the stunning Christmas rose. Flower buds are already beginning to appear on the stinking hellebore. Heavenly bamboo and hollies still have berries and a number of pansies are in flower. Some plants with noteworthy winter bark are Japanese stewartia, paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods adds bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens and impatiens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 14, 2007 (Fri, 12 Jan 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Snowdrops are beginning to flower. You can enjoy them in the Mauoleum area as well as several other locations around the Garden. The warm weather has brought out some early flowers on the Japanese apricot in the Chinese garden. Also you can enjoy the bright yellow flowers of the winter jasmine. In the Japanese garden some pussy willows are just starting to come out. A number of the witch-hazels are in flower. You will see some x intermedia hybrids in flower as well as the Ozark and Chinese witch-hazels. You can also enjoy the sweet scent of winter and fragrant honeysuckles and the stunning Christmas rose. Flower buds are already beginning to appear on the stinking hellebore. Heavenly bamboo still has some attractive fruit and 'Wintergreen' boxwoods have small but fragrant blossoms. A number of pansies are in flower. Some plants with noteworthy winter bark that are still worthy of mention are Japanese stewartia, paperbark maple and river birch. Don’t overlook the shrub dogwoods, which can add bright colors to the winter scene. In the Linnean House you can enjoy camellias as well as cyclamens and impatiens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 21, 2007 (Fri, 19 Jan 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Snowdrops are beginning to flower. You can enjoy them in the Mauoleum area as well as several other locations around the Garden. On warm days you can also enjoy some early flowers on the Japanese apricot in the Chinese garden. Also you can enjoy the bright yellow flowers of the winter jasmine. In the Japanese garden some pussy willows are just starting to come out. A number of the witch-hazels are in flower. You will see some x intermedia hybrids in flower as well as the Ozark and Chinese witch-hazels. On very cold days the petals may look shriveled, but as the temperatures warm they come back to life! You can also still enjoy the sweet scent of winter and fragrant honeysuckles and the stunning Christmas rose. Flower buds are already beginning to appear on the stinking hellebore. Heavenly bamboo still has some attractive fruit and 'Wintergreen' boxwoods have small but fragrant blossoms. On warm days you can enjoy some pansy flowers. Some plants with very handsome winter bark to take note of are Japanese stewartia, paperbark maple and river birch. Don’t miss the shrub dogwoods, which are adding bright colors to the winter landscape. In the Linnean House you can enjoy camellias as well as cyclamens and impatiens. The fragrant olive still has a few sweet smelling flowers.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 28, 2007 (Fri, 26 Jan 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Snowdrops are in flower in many locations. You can enjoy them in the Mauoleum area as well as several other locations around the Garden. Winter aconite is also beginning to bloom. On warm days you can also enjoy some early flowers on the Japanese apricot in the Chinese garden. You can also enjoy the bright yellow flowers of the winter jasmine. In the Japanese garden some pussy willows have a few very early catkins pushing out. Some of the witch-hazels are past but many others are looking very lovely. You will see some x intermedia hybrids in flower as well as the Ozark and Chinese witch-hazels. On very cold days the petals may look shriveled, but as the temperature warms they come back to life! You can also still enjoy the sweet scent of winter and fragrant honeysuckles and the stunning Christmas rose. Flower buds are already beginning to appear on the stinking hellebore. Don’t miss the shrub dogwoods, which are adding bright colors to the winter landscape. In the Linnean House enjoy the camellias. You can also enjoy cyclamens and primroses. The fragrant olive still has a few sweet smelling flowers.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February 4, 2007 (Fri, 02 Feb 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Our cold snap has slowed new plants coming into flower but snowdrops are pushing through the snow and winter aconite is adding a touch of gold in the Heckman bulb garden. On warm days early flowers on the Japanese apricot in the Chinese garden continues. You can also enjoy the bright yellow flowers of the winter jasmine. In the Japanese garden some pussy willows are in a hold pattern with a few very early catkins pushing out. Some of the witch-hazels are past but many others are looking very lovely. You will see some x intermedia hybrids in flower as well as the Ozark and Chinese witch-hazels. On very cold days the petals may look shriveled, but as the temperature warms they come back to life! You can also still enjoy the sweet scent of winter and fragrant honeysuckles and the stunning Christmas rose. They have been flowering from the first of the year and continue to be welcome winter flowers. Flower buds are already beginning to appear on the stinking hellebore. Don’t miss the shrub dogwoods, which continue to add bright colors to a snowy winter landscape. In the Linnean House enjoy the wonderful display of camellias. You can also enjoy cyclamens and primroses. The fragrant olive still has a few sweet smelling flowers.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February 11, 2007 (Fri, 09 Feb 2007 08:42:31 CST)

The very cold weather has closed up the snowdrops and winter aconite, but look for them to return on warm days. You can enjoy snowdrops in the Mauoleum area as well as several other locations around the Garden. Some winter aconite can be found in the Heckmann Bulb Garden. Flowers on the Chinese apricot and winter jasmine have been frozen but buds that are still tight should still open later as temperatures warm. In the Japanese Garden some pussy willows have a few very early catkins just beginning to push through their bud scales. Open flowers of the witch-hazels have also been damaged, but again, buds that are still tight should still open later. There will still be a nice showing of x intermedia hybrids as well as Chinese witch-hazels. As warm temperatures return there still should be some flowers to enjoy on the winter and fragrant honeysuckles. Open flowers on the hellebores have suffered, but tight buds will still open later. The colorful shrub dogwoods have been on this list for many weeks now and with good reason. They still add bright colors to the winter landscape, especially in late afternoon light. On these cold winter days be sure and enjoy the magnificent display of camellias in the Linnean House. You can also enjoy cyclamens and primroses. The fragrant olive still has a few sweet smelling flowers. You can also enjoy several floral treats in the Climatron while you warm up. You can enjoy bauhinia, glory bower and brunfelsia. Also of note is the fruit pod on the chocolate plant and the bush clock vine. In the Temperate House enjoy Clanwilliam daisy, flowering maple, and paperbush. Don't miss the lovely wax flower, the cowslips, and the cyclamens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February 18, 2007 (Fri, 16 Feb 2007 08:42:31 CST)

The temperature is predicted to rise this week so snowdrops and winter aconite will return. You can view snowdrops in the Mausoleum area as well as several other locations around the garden. Some winter aconite can be seen in the Heckmann Bulb Garden. The camellias are nearing peak in the Linnean House. You can also enjoy cyclamens, primroses, and the fragrant olive. There are also some striking amaryllis and the jasmine should begin flowering this week. In the Temperate House enjoy Clanwilliam daisy, flowering maple, and paperbush. Don't miss the lovely wax flower, the cowslips, and the cyclamens. Also take note of the lovely African daisy, winter daphne, and geraniums. You can also enjoy several floral treats in the Climatron while you warm up. You can enjoy bauhinia and brunfelsia. The glory bower is just past peak but is still spectacular. Also of note is the fruit pod on the chocolate plant and the bush clock vine. Other sights to see are the banana and papaya plants with fruit, the powerpuff tree, and of course orchids. Open flowers of the witch-hazels have been damaged, but buds that are still tight should still open later. There will still be a nice showing of x intermedia hybrids as well as Chinese witch-hazels. The colorful shrub dogwoods have been on this list for many weeks now and with good reason. They still add bright colors to the winter landscape, especially in late afternoon light.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February 25, 2007 (Fri, 23 Feb 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Snowdrops and winter aconite have returned. You can view snowdrops in the Mausoleum area as well as several other locations around the garden. Some winter aconite can be seen in the Heckmann Bulb Garden. The camellias continue near peak in the Linnean House. They are not to be missed. You can also enjoy cyclamens, primroses, and the fragrant olive. There are also some striking amaryllis and the jasmine is just beginning to flower. In the Temperate House enjoy Clanwilliam daisy, flowering maple, and paperbush. Don't miss the lovely wax flower, the cowslips, and the cyclamens. Also take note of the lovely African daisy, winter daphne, and geraniums. You can also enjoy several floral treats in the Climatron while you warm up. You can enjoy bauhinia and some lovely heliconias. Also of note is the fruit pod on the chocolate plant and the bush clock vine. Other sights to see are the banana and papaya plants with fruit, the powerpuff tree, and of course orchids. Witch-hazels are starting to open again. There will be a nice showing of x intermedia hybrids as well as Chinese witch-hazels.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March 4, 2007 (Fri, 02 Mar 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Snowdrops and winter aconite have returned and are looking lovely. You can view snowdrops in the Mausoleum area as well as several other locations around the garden. Some winter aconite can be seen in the Heckman Bulb Garden. You can also see many lovely snow crocuses and some early reticulated iris. Helleborus hybrids and some Lenten roses are in flower and sharp eyes may spot some early striped squill. The camellias continue at peak in the Linnean House. They are not to be missed. You can also enjoy cyclamens, primroses, and the fragrant olive. The jasmine is still just beginning to flower. Witch-hazels are starting to open again. There is a nice showing of x intermedia hybrids as well as Chinese witch-hazels. In the Temperate House enjoy Clanwilliam daisy, flowering maple, and paperbush. Don't miss the lovely wax flower, the cowslips, and the cyclamens. Also take note of the lovely African daisy, winter-hazel, and geraniums. You can also enjoy several floral treats in the Climatron while you warm up. You can enjoy bauhinia and some lovely heliconias. Also of note is the fruit pod on the chocolate plant and the bush clock vine. Other sights to see are the banana and papaya plants with fruit, the powerpuff tree, and of course orchids.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March 11, 2007 (Fri, 09 Mar 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Snowdrops and winter aconite continue to be lovely. You can view snowdrops in the Mausoleum area as well as several other locations around the garden. Some winter aconite can be seen in the Heckman Bulb Garden. You can also see many lovely snow crocuses and some early reticulated iris. Crocus have also started to flower in the lawn area near Tower Grove House. Helleborus hybrids and some Lenten roses are in flower. Striped squill is also in bloom. It has a long bloom time. The camellias continue at peak in the Linnean House. They are not to be missed. You can also enjoy cyclamens, primroses, and the fragrant olive. The jasmine is flowering and the Mexican orange is starting. You can also see some lovely amaryllis. Witch-hazels are magnificent. There is a nice showing of x intermedia hybrids as well as Chinese witch-hazels. A few Ozark witch-hazels are also in flower. The winter and fragarant honeysuckles are back in flower and the cornelian cherry is just starting. In the Japanese Garden the pussy willow is of note. Two fun plants in flower are the American hazelnut with its lovely hanging catkins and Harry Lauder's Walking Stick with its interesting contorted branches. In the Temperate House enjoy Clanwilliam daisy, flowering maple, and the firecracker plant. Don't miss the lovely wax flower, the cowslips, and the cyclamens. Also take note of the lovely African daisy, winter-hazel, and geraniums. You can also enjoy several floral treats in the Climatron. You can enjoy bauhinia and some lovely heliconias. Also of note is the fruit pod on the chocolate plant and the bush clock vine. Other sights to see are the banana and papaya plants with fruit, the powerpuff tree, and of course orchids.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March 18, 2007 (Fri, 16 Mar 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Spring has arrived at the Garden and it is alive with daffodils, crocus and star magnolias. Some wonderful daffodil cultivars to enjoy are 'Peeping Tom', 'Cassata', and 'Tete-a-Tete'. You can also still see many lovely snow crocuses and reticulated irises. Crocus continue in flower in the lawn area near Tower Grove House. Helleborus hybrids and Lenten roses are glorious. Striped squill and glory of the snow are lovely. Forsythia are coming into flower as well as the white forsythia. They are true harbingers of spring. The lovely spicebush is also of note. In the Chinese Garden some flowers on Prunus mume 'Peggy Clark' and the winter jasmine have also returned. The camellias continue at peak in the Linnean House. They are not to be missed. You can also enjoy cyclamens, primroses, and the fragrant olive. The jasmine is flowering and the Mexican orange is starting. You can also see some lovely amaryllis. Witch-hazels are magnificent. There is a nice showing of x intermedia hybrids as well as Chinese witch-hazels. They are being followed by the equally lovely winter hazels. The winter and fragarant honeysuckles are back in flower and the cornelian cherry is very attractive. Some small treasures to see are early hyacinths, pansies and color on the Virginia bluebells. In the Japanese Garden the pussy willow is of note. Two fun plants in flower are the American hazelnut with its lovely hanging catkins and Harry Lauder's Walking Stick with its interesting contorted branches. In the Temperate House enjoy Clanwilliam daisy, flowering maple, and the firecracker plant. Don't miss the lovely wax flower, the cowslips, and the cyclamens. Also take note of the lovely African daisy, winter-hazel, and geraniums. You can also enjoy several floral treats in the Climatron. You can enjoy bauhinia and some lovely heliconias. Also of note is the fruit pod on the chocolate plant and the bush clock vine. Other sights to see are the banana and papaya plants with fruit, the powerpuff tree, and of course orchids.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March 25, 2007 (Fri, 23 Mar 2007 08:42:31 CST)

The Garden is alive with spring flowers. The weeping cherries are flowering in the Japanese Garden along with plums and spring bulbs everywhere. The star and saucer magnolias are in flower. Around town you will see Bradford pears coming into full flower. Among the wonderful daffodil cultivars to enjoy are 'Peeping Tom', 'Cassata', and 'Tete-a-Tete'. You can also still see many lovely crocuses and may still spot a few reticulated irises. The wind anemone is particularly charming. Grape hyacinth are starting in warm locations and the summer snowflake is in full bloom. Helleborus hybrids and Lenten roses are glorious. Striped squill and glory of the snow are still lovely. Forsythia is in full flower and the Chinese redbud is just starting. Also note the spicebush. In the Kemper Center Vegetable Garden don't miss the 'Bonfire' peach and 'Snow Fountains' cherry. Around the Garden Japanese flowering quince are also beginning. You will see the lovely blue flowers of vinca, the first flowers on lungworts, and also the gorgeous pasque flower. The camellias are past peak but still worth a visit. You can also enjoy cyclamens, primroses, and the fragrant olive. The jasmine is flowering and the Mexican orange is coming into full-flower. You can also see some lovely amaryllis. Most witch-hazels are past and have been replaced by the equally lovely winter hazels. The winter and fragrant honeysuckles are still in flower and the cornelian cherry is very attractive. Other treasures to see are hyacinths, pansies and Virginia bluebells. In the Temperate House enjoy Clanwilliam daisy, flowering maple, and the firecracker plant. Don't miss the lovely wax flower, the crimson bottlebrush, and the cyclamens. Also take note of the lovely African daisy, pride of Madeira, and geraniums. You can also enjoy several floral treats in the Climatron. You can enjoy bauhinia and some lovely heliconias. Also of note is the bush clock vine, the powderpuff tree, and of course orchids.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 1, 2007 (Fri, 30 Mar 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Tulips are in full-flower around the Garden and should not be missed. Cherries are also in full-flower in the Japanese Garden but petals will be dropping soon. Flowering crabapples are now coming into full bloom. Other small flowering trees of note include: serviceberries and bird cherry. Redbud and white redbud are also in full flower. The flowering dogwoods are not far behind. Our pansies came through the mild winter very well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden including in the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax have been planted and are starting to flower. Herbaceous perennials of note now flowering include: Virginia bluebells, pasque flower, and windflower. Also of note are candytuft, bugleweed, and epimediums. The flowering bulbs are popping up all over with daffodil and tulip cultivars in full flower in many locations. From now through the end of April the spring flowering bulbs will be very showy in the bulb gardens. Don't miss the charming grape hyacinth as well as the true hyacinths. You can also still enjoy the beauty of spring blooming in the Shoenberg Temperate House. In the Climatron don’t' miss the unusual color of the jade vine located on the lower level of the Climatron near the exit to the Brookings Interpretive Center. Also enjoy the lovely heliconias. Many spring flowering shrubs are flowering this week, including the Koreanspice viburnum and Japanese flowering quince. Rhododendron P.J.M. in the Rhododendron Garden is in full bloom. Other shrubs to note are fothergilla and azaleas that will be flowering in many locations inlcuding the Azalea and Rhododendron Garden as well as in the Japanese Garden. A few camellias are still flowering in the Linnean House. Bedding primroses and cyclamen continue to be showy. Overhead in the hanging baskets is the lovely, sweet-smelling Jasminum polyanthum.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 8, 2007 (Mon, 9 Apr 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Plants were flowering about a week earlier this year than last but the freezing temperatures this past weekend has damaged most open flowers as well as killed newly emerging leaves and shoots. Trees and shrubs will have to rebud but some will suffer tip dieback, such as magnolias. Herbaceous perennials that were damaged will need to send up new shoot from below ground. The extent of the damage will vary from location to location depending upon micro-climates and the lowest temperature experienced. All you can do now is wait. When new growth appears, dead growth can be removed. Open flower on dogwoods, redbuds and crabapples have turned brown. The flowers on fothergilla, both the dwarf and large species, were damaged and open flowers on azaleas were killed. Flower buds that were still tight appear to be unharmed so later flowering in the Azalea and Rhododendron Garden is still expected. Many herbaceous perennials were coming into bloom and several were damaged. Fairy bells were damaged, but Jacob's ladder and small Solomon's seal look okay. Tulips were in full flower around the Garden and although they may not be standing tall most will still look nice. Many flowering bulbs are past peak but there will still be very lovely late flowering daffodils and other bulbs in the bulb gardens. Around the Garden you will see Spanish bluebells and camas starting to flower. The wisteria in the Japanese Garden was starting to flower but the flowers were killed. The tree peonies are starting to flower and are fine. A few early, single-flowered herbaceous peonies may start to open soon but peak flowering will not be until the end of April or the first week in may. The Kanzan cherries came through fairly well but were close to their normal end of bloom so will be dropping soon. In the Kemper Center's Native Missouri Woodland Garden check out the blackhaw viburnum. Golden ragwort and celendine poppy are turning the garden bright yellow. A wonderful woody plant to note is the Carolina allspice. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. Some weigelias will be starting soon. Also look for several lungworts beginning to flower as well as Siberian bugloss. Bleeding hearts are always welcome bloomers in any garden. Woodland phlox as well as creeping phlox and the mountain bluet in the Strassenfest and Boxwood Gardens are in flower. The ground cover, Vinca minor, is flowering. Don't miss the spring flowering bulbs in the Mausoleum area. Our pansies came through winter well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden. In the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds you can see dramatic results in which varieties survived the cold winter well and which did not. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax are flowering nicely in beds and containers. Herbaceous perennials of note that continue in flower include: Virginia bluebells and pasque flower. Also of note are candytuft and bugleweed.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 15, 2007 (Mon, 16 Apr 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Lantanaphyllum viburnum has come into flower and flower buds that were still tight on later flowering azaleas survived the freeze and are coming into flower. Lilacs are scenting the Garden and colorful foliage and hanging flowers on the small Solomon's seal are very attractive. The cool weather has favored the tulips but they are nearing the end of their flowering. Many flowering bulbs are past peak but there will still be very lovely late flowering daffodils and other bulbs in the bulb gardens. Around the Garden you will see Spanish bluebells and camas starting to flower. The tree peonies are very lovely and should not be missed. There are some in the Chinese Garden and a very nice showing in the Japanese Garden. Late-flowering azaleas in the Japanese Garden are also coming into flower. In the Kemper Center's Native Missouri Woodland Garden check out the blackhaw viburnum. Golden ragwort and celendine poppy are turning the garden bright yellow. Also look for several lungworts, the last of the Virginia bluebells, and ajuga. Woodland phlox as well as creeping phlox and the mountain bluet in the Strassenfest and Boxwood Gardens are in flower. The ground cover, Vinca minor, continues. Don't miss the spring flowering bulbs in the Mausoleum area. Our pansies came through winter well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden. In the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds you can see dramatic results in which varieties survived the cold winter well and which did not. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax are flowering nicely in beds and containers.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 22, 2007 (Fri, 20 Apr 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Later flowering azaleas are looking very nice around the Garden. Hawthorns are in flower and irises are just beginning. Red buckeye has been in flower for a while aready, and horsechestnut and empress tree are starting. Blueberries are flowering but some blooms have been damaged by the late frost. Black chokeberry is very attractive. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals in flower now are spiderwort, wild geranium and blue star. Several viburnums are in flower. Of note are the lantanaphyllum viburnum, nannyberry, and the European cranberrybush. The tree peonies are lovely and in the Kemper Center's Native Missouri Woodland Garden check out golden ragwort and celendine poppy, which are turning the garden bright yellow. A wonderful woody plant to note is the Carolina allspice. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. There are also some weigelas starting to flower. Other perennials still in flower are lungworts, Jacob's ladder, and small Solomon's seal. You will also see woodland phlox as well as creeping phlox. The mountain bluet in the Strassenfest and Boxwood Gardens is spectacular. The ground cover, Vinca minor, is flowering. Don't miss the spring flowering bulbs in the Mausoleum area. The area is filled with Spanish bluebells. Only a few flowering dogwood flowers have survived but lilacs will continue to perfume the Garden for a short while yet. Our pansies came through winter well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden including in the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax are flowering nicely in beds and containers. Two long-flowering herbaceous perennials of note that continue in flower are Virginia bluebells and pasque flower. Also still of note are candytuft and bugleweed. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still many lovely bulbs in the bulb gardens. Around the Garden you will see Spanish bluebells and camassia in flower.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 29, 2007 (Fri, 27 Apr 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Late-flowering azaleas are looking very nice throughout the Garden and some evergreen rhododendrons are starting to bloom. The doublefile viburnums were hard hit by the frost so only a few have any flowers. Irises are still just starting to come into flower. Red buckeye, horsechestnut, and empress tree continue in flower. Kousa dogwood, spireas and ninebark will start this week. Spiderworts are a bit slow, but wild geranium and blue star are starting. Columbine and some early coral bells are beginning to flower as is an early flowering sage, 'Viola Klose'. Don't miss the lovely Fremont's leather flower in the Kemper Center's rock garden. Snowdrop anemone is a rhizomatous plant that forms spreading patches. Its lovely white flowers are beautiful, but some may consider the plant invasive as it will reseed throughout your garden. Hydranges were hard hit by the late frost and we don't expect many if any flowers on our oakleaf and climbing hydrangeas. Three trumpet honeysuckle cultivars all planted together in the Kemper Center's Herb Garden are striking. Don't miss the charming lily of the valley and the gorgeous Chinese ground orchid. Clematis are beginning to flower. A wonderful woody plant to note is the Carolina allspice. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. Weigelas and beautybush are also in flower. Other perennials still in flower are lungworts, wood phlox and small Solomon's seal. The mountain bluet in the Strassenfest Garden is still striking and the bleeding heart in the Kemper Secret Garden is charming. Our pansies came through the winter very well and are making lovely displays throughout the Garden including in the Kemper Center's Pansy Trial Beds. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax are flowering nicely in beds and containers. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still very lovely late tulips and wonderful flowering onions in flower. Around the Garden you will see Spanish bluebells in several locations. The herbaceous peonies in the Japanese Garden will be starting this week.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May 6, 2007 (Fri, 04 May 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Peonies in the Japanese Garden and else where will be coming into full flower the end of the week and should look lovely for Mother's Day. Irises continue in full flower. The common bleeding hearts that were killed back by the late freeze have resprouted and are looking great, albeit a bit late in flowering this year. The linden viburnums are coming into flower and horsechestnut continues. The late-flowering azaleas and large-leaved rhododendrons are gorgeous. Among the shrubs slender deutzia was hard hit by the freeze so this is a good year to cut overgrown plants down to 8-12 inches to rejuvenate them as flowering will be very sparse or non-existent. Itea should still flower but is a bit late this year. A large shrub or small tree of note that survived well in most locations is the fringetree. The Kousa dogwoods are coming into full flower as are spireas and ninebark. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennials in flower are spiderwort, wild geranium and blue star. Columbine and some early coral bells are beginning to flower as are the salvias including MAY NIGHT. Japanese snowbell and bigleaf magnolia were set back in some locations but in others the plants are flowering as normal. The alternate-leaved butterfly bush in the Scented Garden is lovely. Our oakleaf hydrangeas are sending out flower buds. They may start flowering for Mother's Day. Tulip tree should start flowering toward the end of the week. The Japanese tree lilac is just beginning with its sweet-scented flowers. Three trumpet honeysuckle cultivars all planted together in the Kemper Center's Herb Garden continue to be striking. Clematis is beginning to flower as is the gorgeous Chinese ground orchid. Carolina allspice is still flowering. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. Weigelas and beautybush continue but will soon be replaced by mockoranges and shrub roses. Don't miss the striking blue of false indigo and the lovely yellow of yellow flag and king's spear. Our pansies continue at peak but will decline as hot weather arrives. The pansies and other spring-flowering annuals will soon be replaced with summer-flowering annuals. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still many very lovely flowering onions in flower. Some lovely and interesting plants to see at the Kemper Center for Home Gardening when you stop by for lunch at the Terrace Café, include FIREWITCH dianthus, the pitcher plants, and the Dutchman's pipe vine.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May 13, 2007 (Fri, 11 May 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Peonies in the Japanese Garden and else where in the Garden are past peak, but some late flowering ones will continue to be very attractive. Irises are past peak but still very showy. Roses are starting to flower in many locations including our two rose gardens. Two large shrubs or small trees of note are smoketree and Japanese tree lilac. Some late-flowering azaleas and the large-leaved rhododendrons continue. Itea is just starting to flower and the common bleeding hearts are coming to an end. The Kousa dogwoods are stills in full flower; spireas and ninebark are mostly past. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals in flower are spiderwort, wild geranium and blue star. Columbines and coral bells are flowering as are the salvias including MAY NIGHT. Japanese snowbell is nearing the end of its bloom. Also of note is the bigleaf magnolia, and the alternate-leaved butterfly bush in the Scented Garden. Oakleaf hydrangeas may start flowering the end of the week. Tulip tree is still in flower. Some lovely perennials to note are the spotted bellflower, the catnips, and the Missouri primrose. Many clematis are in flower as is the gorgeous Chinese ground orchid. Astilbes are starting. Carolina allspice is still flowering. Be sure and smell its fragrant flowers. Some mockoranges are still in flower as are many more roses this week. Don't miss the striking blue of false indigo, the lovely panicles of garden phlox and the interesting King's spear. Our pansies and other spring-flowering annuals will soon be replaced with summer-flowering annuals. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still many very lovely flowering onions to see. The next big show in the bulb gardens will be the true lilies starting in June. Near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening don't miss the pitcher plants.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May 20, 2007 (Fri, 18 May 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Peonies are past peak, but you can still find a few late-flowering ones. Irises are also past peak but a few can still be enjoyed. Roses are starting to come into flower in many locations around the Garden including our two rose gardens. The smoketree continues to have colorful foliage and lindens are beginning to flower. Their flowers are rather inconspicuous, but if one is close by you will smell its sweet perfume. A tree we get many questions about is the tricolor beech. Though not in flower, the very colorful leaves viewed from a distance gives the tree the appearance of being in bloom. Itea is coming into flower. It is one of our Plants of Merit, a most deserving honor for this plant with many seasons of interest. The Kousa dogwoods will soon be past peak but some are still showy. The Japanese spireas such as 'Little Princess' are starting to flower. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals are spiderwort and wild geranium. You will also find a few flowers of blue star. Columbines and coral bells are flowering as are many salvias and sages including Salvia transsylvanica. You can still find some flowers on the bigleaf magnolia. Japanese tree lilac continues in bloom and catalpa will be in full flower soon. Some oakleaf hydrangeas are starting to flower, but others were damaged by the late frost and will have sparse flowering this year. Also enjoy the sweetbay and the southern magnolias. Some lovely perennials to note are the spotted bellflower, the catnips, and the veronicas. Many clematis are now in full-flower and the gorgeous Chinese ground orchid still has some flowers. Astilbes are starting. You can still find some flowers on the Carolina allspice. If you find one, be sure and smell it. Some mockoranges are still in flower. You will also find some penstemons blooming, including the gorgeous, Penstemon cobaea. Don't miss the last of the striking blue of false indigo. The charming flowers of the pincushion flower will be around for many weeks. Our summer annuals trail bed will be planted with many summer flowering annuals soon, including vincas and petunias. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still some very lovely flowering onions. The next big show in the bulb gardens will be the true lilies starting in June. Some interesting plants to see near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening when you stop by for lunch at the Terrace Cafe are the pitcher plants and the Dutchman's pipe.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May 27, 2007 (Fri, 25 May 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Roses are coming into full-flower in many locations around the Garden including our two rose gardens. Some southern magnolias and lindens are flowering. Linden flowers are rather inconspicuous, but if they are close by you will smell its sweet perfume. A tree we get many questions about is the tricolor beech. Though not in flower, the very colorful leaves viewed from a distance gives the tree the appearance of being in bloom. Among the shrubs, the heavenly bamboo is starting to flower. It is not a true bamboo and can be tender in St. Louis, but its evergreen leaves and showy, red winter berries make it a nice plant for a protected area. Itea continues in flower this week. Though not showy in flower RED SPRITE holly is flowering, promising a nice crop of red berries for winter color in the garden. The Kousa dogwoods are mostly past. The Japanese spireas, such as 'Little Princess' are starting to flower. Gray dogwood is also in flower. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals continuing in flower are spiderwort and wild geranium. You will also still find some flowers of blue star. Gaura and coral bells are flowering as are many salvias and sages including Salvia transsylvanica. Japanese tree lilac is finishing but catapa is still in flower around town. Oakleaf hydrangea are still just starting to flower. Penstemon 'Husker Red' is showy in many locations. Some lovely perennials to note are the yarrows which are just starting, the catnips, and the veronicas. Many clematis are in full-flower and the gorgeous Chinese ground orchid still has some flowers. Astilbes are beginning in many locations. The purple poppy mallow has started and some mockoranges are still in flower. You will also find some native penstemons blooming, including the gorgeous, Penstemon cobaea. The lovely spikes of red hot poker are dramatic. The charming flowers of the pincushion flower will be around for many more weeks. Our summer annuals trail bed has been planted and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are being planted throughout the Garden. The flowering bulbs are past peak but there are still some very lovely flowering onions. A few true lilies are just beginning. Two interesting plants to see near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening are the pitcher plants and leptodermis.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June 3, 2007 (Fri, 01 Jun 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Lilies are beginning to flower and will be lovely in many locations around the Garden including the two bulb gardens as well as the Kemper Center. Roses are still in full-flower in many locations around the Garden including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias and lindens are still flowering. Linden flowers are rather inconspicuous, but if they are close by you will smell their sweet perfume. A tree we get many questions about is the tricolor beech. Though not in flower, the very colorful leaves viewed from a distance gives the tree the appearance of being in bloom. Among the shrubs, the heavenly bamboo is flowering. It is not a true bamboo and can be tender in St. Louis, but its evergreen leaves and showy, red winter berries make it a nice plant for a protected area. The beautiful prairie rose is starting to open and the bottlebrush buckeye will be beginning soon. Daylilies are beginning to flower. They look lovely combined with Japanese spireas or Stachys 'Hummelo'. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals continuing in flower are spiderwort and wild geranium. In the Kemper Center's rock garden be sure and see the showy prickly pear cactus. Gaura and coral bells are flowering as are many salvias and sages including Salvia transsylvanica. Other perennials of note include speedwell, rose campion, and yellow loosestrife. Oakleaf hydrangeas are in full flower around the Garden. Penstemon 'Husker Red' is still showy in many locations and the smooth hydrangea is just beginning. Yarrows are beginning to flower in many locations along with coreopsis. Either would be striking planted with the lavindin cultivar 'Grosso' in the Kemper Herb Garden, which will be spectacular when it comes into flower this week. Clematis are in full-flower as are many of the astilbes. The purple poppy mallow has started and the Missouri primrose is still flowering. The trumpet creeper in the Kemper Bird Garden is just beginning to flower. Bear's breeches is an unusual and lovely plant that is just beginning. The lovely spikes of red hot poker are dramatic. The charming flowers of the pincushion flower will be around for many more weeks. Our summer annuals trail bed has been planted and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, have been planted throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. The pitcher plants are still attractive and in the Japanese Garden the Japanese iris are in bloom.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June 10, 2007 (Fri, 08 Jun 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Lilies are flowering in many locations around the Garden including the two bulb gardens as well as the Kemper Center. The Japanese iris in the Japanese Garden continues. The sacred lotus will be starting around the end of the week. Roses are still flowering in many locations around the Garden including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias are still flowering and elderberry has begun. A tree we get many questions about is the tricolor beech. Though not in flower, the very colorful leaves viewed from a distance gives the tree the appearance of being in bloom. Among the shrubs, the heavenly bamboo is still flowering. It is not a true bamboo and can be tender in St. Louis, but its evergreen leaves and showy, red winter berries make it a nice plant for a protected area. The beautiful prairie rose is in full-flower as is one of the Plants of Merit, bottlebrush buckeye. Daylilies are beginning to flower. They would look lovely combined with Japanese spireas or Stachys 'Hummelo'. Some noteworthy native herbaceous perennals continuing in flower are spiderwort and wild geranium. In the Kemper Center's rock garden be sure and see the showy prickly pear cactus. Gaura and coral bells are flowering as are some St. John's worts including 'Hidcote'. One of the earliest of the ornamental grasses to flower is feather reed grass. You will also see Ural false spirea and purple coneflowers. Oakleaf hydrangeas are in full flower and in the Japanese Garden the combination of baloon flower with butterfly weed is striking. Yarrows are beginning to flower in many locations along with coreopsis. Either would be striking planted with the lavindin cultivar 'Grosso' in the Kemper Herb Garden, which is spectacular. Clematis are in full-flower as are many of the astilbes. The purple poppy mallow has started and the Missouri primrose is still flowering. The trumpet creeper in the Kemper Bird Garden is in full flower. In the Kemper Center's flower trial area the Shasta daisy 'Sunny Side Up' is lovely as is Stokes' aster 'Peach Melba'. In the Woodland Garden the gooseneck loosestrife is charming, but beware. This aggressive grower can take over your garden! Bear's breeches is an unusual and lovely plant. The lovely spikes of red hot poker are dramatic. The charming flowers of the pincushion flower will be around for many more weeks. Our summer annuals trail bed is growing rapidly and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, have been planted throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Two interesting plants to see near the Kemper Center for Home Gardening when you stop by for lunch are the pitcher plants and the mint-shrub.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June 17, 2007 (Fri, 15 Jun 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Lilies are in full flower in many locations around the Garden including the two bulb gardens as well as the Kemper Center. In the Japanese Garden the Japanese iris and sacred lotus are starting. You won't want to miss them. Roses are still flowering in many locations including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias are still flowering and the Japanese stewartia will be in flower for a short time. The buttonbush has a very interesting flower and the flowers on sumac promise a nice crop of red berries for the fall. The bottlebrush buckeye, a Plant of Merit, is still in full flower and should not be missed. Daylilies are coming into full flower. They would look lovely combined with Japanese spireas or Stachys 'Hummelo'. Around town and at the Garden you will see mimosa and 'Annabelle' hydrangea in flower. In the Rhododendron Garden don't miss the charming flowers of the sourwood. Gaura and coral bells are flowering as are the St. John's worts including 'Hidcote'. One of the earliest of the ornamental grasses to flower is feather reed grass. You will also see the charming bottle brush grass and many cultivars of purple coneflowers. Oakleaf hydrangeas are still in full flower and in the Japanese Garden the combination of balloon flower with butterfly weed is striking. Yarrows are in full flower in many locations along with coreopsis. Either would be striking planted with lavindin. Most of the clematis have finished their spring flush of flowers but serveral cultivars will repeat flowering throughout the summer. Astilbes are in flower in many locations. The purple poppy mallow has started and the leadplant looks regal with its silvery foliage and purple flowers. The trumpet creeper in the Kemper Bird Garden is in full flower. Around the garden enjoy shasta daisies and Stokes' asters. Both have a long bloom period. Bear's breeches is an unusual and lovely plant. A couple of plants are starting to flower already.The lovely spikes of red hot poker are dramatic. The charming flowers of the pincushion flower will be around for many more weeks. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas are mostly grown for their foliage but they also have attractive flowers, which can be seen in many locations. Our summer annuals trail bed is growing rapidly and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, have been planted throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June 24, 2007 (Fri, 22 Jun 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Lilies are past peak but still lovely in many locations including the two bulb gardens as well as the Kemper Center. 'Annabelle' hydrangea is in flower as is black snakeroot. In the Japanese Garden the sacred lotus is in flower. Roses are still flowering in many locations including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias still have fragrant flowers and golden raintrees have turned yellow with flowers. Tamarisk can also be seen in flower. The buttonbush has a very interesting flower and the flowers on sumac promise a nice crop of red berries for the fall. The bottlebrush buckeye is mostly past peak, but a few plants in the Boxwood Garden have yet to begin. Daylilies are in full flower. They would look lovely combined with Russian sage or Stachys 'Hummelo'. Three very showy rose of Sharon's in flower are 'Diana', 'Minerva', and 'Aphrodite'. Many beebalms are flowering as are the St. John's worts including 'Hidcote'. You can see the charming bottle brush grass in the Woodland Garden. Many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers are in flower. Oakleaf hydrangeas continue and in the Japanese Garden the combination of balloon flower with butterfly weed is striking. Yarrows are in full flower in many locations along with coreopsis. In the Kemper Herb Garden the lavindin cultivar 'Grosso' is still spectacular. Most of the clematis have finished their spring flush of flowers but serveral cultivars will repeat flowering throughout the summer. Most astilbes are past, but a few are still showy. At the Kemper Center the giant hysop cultivar 'Honey Bee Blue' is most attractive and the flowers of the flat sea holly are most beguiling. The trumpet creeper in the Kemper Bird Garden is in full flower. Shasta daisy 'Sunny Side Up' is lovely as is Stokes' aster 'Peach Melba'. Many blue-flowered cultivars of Stokes' aster are blooming around the Garden. Bear's breeches is an unusual and lovely plant. A couple of plants have begun to flower. The lovely spires of red hot poker are dramatic. Some garden phlox are beginning to flower. In the Kemper Center's herb garden three cultivars of trumpet honeysuckle planted next to each other are back in flower and are spectacular. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas are mostly grown for their foliage but they also have attractive flowers, which can be seen in many locations. Mimosa is still in flower and the chaste tree has begun. Our summer annuals trail bed is growing rapidly and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, have been planted throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 1, 2007 (Fri, 29 Jun 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Lilies are past peak but still showy in many areas. Daylilies are in full bloom. 'Annabelle' hydrangea and black snakeroot are still in flower. In the Japanese Garden the sacred lotus is gorgeous. Roses are still flowering in many locations including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias still have fragrant flowers and the flowers on the golden raintrees have turned into inflated seed pods. Crape myrtles are beginning to flower. Summer sweet is just starting as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Most of the bottlebrush buckeye plants have finished flowering but a few are still in bloom. Butterfly bush has started and Russian sage continues. Abelia is a long-flowering shrub. Three very showy rose of Sharon's in flower are 'Diana', 'Minerva', and 'Aphrodite'. Many beebalms are flowering as are the St. John's worts including 'Hidcote'. You can see the charming bottle brush grass in the Woodland Garden. Many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers are in flower. Meadow rue is attractive and balloon flower continues. The large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Yarrows are in full flower in many locations along with coreopsis. In the Kemper Herb Garden the lavindin cultivar 'Grosso' is still spectacular. Most of the clematis have finished their spring flush of flowers but serveral cultivars will repeat flowering throughout the summer. Most astilbes are past, but a few are still showy. Blackberry lily is just starting. At the Kemper Center the giant hysop cultivar 'Honey Bee Blue' is most attractive and the flowers of the flat sea holly are most beguiling. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see Culver's root, western ironweed, and Joe Pye weed. Bear's breeches is an unusual and lovely plant that is still showy. The lovely spires of blazing star are dramatic. Many garden phlox are flowering. In the Kemper Center's herb garden three cultivars of trumpet honeysuckle planted next to each other are back in flower and are spectacular. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas are mostly grown for their foliage but they also have attractive flowers, which can be seen in many locations. Mimosa is still in flower and the chaste tree is magnificent. Our summer annuals trail bed is in full flower and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 8, 2007 (Fri, 06 Jul 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Lilies are past peak but still a few late bloomers are showy. Daylilies continue. Some Pee Gee hydrangeas are blooming as well as the lovely 'Little Lamb' hydrangea. Roses continue in many locations including our two rose gardens. Southern magnolias still have fragrant flowers and the flowers on the golden raintrees have turned into inflated seed pods. Crape myrtles are beginning to flower. Summer sweet is starting as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Most of the bottlebrush buckeye plants have finished flowering but a few are still in bloom. Butterfly bush is blooming and Russian sage and abelia continue. Three very showy rose of Sharon's in flower are 'Diana', 'Minerva', and 'Aphrodite'. Many beebalms are flowering and plumbago has started in some locations. Rattlesnake master is an ususual plant and many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers are in flower. Meadow rue is attractive and balloon flower continues. The large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, agapanthus and crinums. Most of the clematis have finished their spring flush of flowers but serveral cultivars will repeat flowering throughout the summer. Most astilbes are past, but the Chinese astilbe is still showy. Blackberry lily is starting. At the Kemper Center the giant hysop cultivar 'Honey Bee Blue' is most atractive and the flowers of the flat sea holly and globe thistle are very attractive. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see Culver's root, western ironweed, and Joe Pye weed. Tropical waterlilies are beginning to bloom. The lovely spires of blazing star are dramatic. Many garden phlox are flowering. In the Kemper Center's herb garden three cultivars of trumpet honeysuckle planted next to each other are still showy. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas are mostly grown for their foliage but they also have attractive flowers. Some are still in flower. Mimosa is still in flower around town and the chaste trees at the Garden are magnificent. Our summer annuals trial bed is in full flower and other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. An attractive native woodland flower is black cohosh. It adds charm to any woodland setting. You will also see the colorful leaves of caladiums in many shady locations.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 15, 2007 (Fri, 13 Jul 2007 08:42:31 CST)

The Garden is lovely with dayliles, roses and many summer annuals in flower. A few big leaf hydrangeas have some flowers and the Pee Gee hydrangeas are blooming. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. The Japanese pagoda tree is flowering as are many crepe myrtles. Summer sweets are flowering as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Butterfly bush continues in bloom as does Russian sage. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Many beebalms are still flowering and plumbago is flowering in several locations. Rattlesnake master is an ususual plant and many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers can be seen. Meadow rue is attractive and balloon flower continues. The large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. The late-flowering Chinese astilbe is still showy in a few locations and a great choice for color in the shade. Blackberry and candy lilies are flowering. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see slender mountain mint, western ironweed, and obedient plant. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Many garden phlox are flowering. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas provide colorful leaves for shady gardens. Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. The pollia in the Woodland Garden is showy as are the fruit on the Italian arum plants, which are turning orange. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already, the blue salvia in the Rock Garden, and the nodding onion.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 22, 2007 (Fri, 20 Jul 2007 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 29, 2007 (Fri, 27 Jul 2007 08:42:31 CST)

The garden is alive with summer flowers and colorful displays. The Japanese pagoda tree is still flowering and crape myrtles are lovely and very tolerant of summer heat. A few daylilies are still showy and roses continue in flower. The summer annuals are in full summer glory. Pee Gee hydrangea is blooming as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Summer sweets are finishing but the chaste tree is very attractive. A few early bluebeards are coming into flower. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Many beebalms are still flowering as are the Joe Pye weeds. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Rattlesnake master is an ususual plant and many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers can be seen. Balloon flower continues and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Surprise lilies are always a welcome sight. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Blackberry and candy lilies are still in flower. Many garden phlox are flowering. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see slender mountain mint, western ironweed, and obedient plant. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Pickerel weed is also flowering in several locations. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas provide colorful leaves for shady gardens. Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already and the blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August 5, 2007 (Fri, 03 Aug 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses also continue and the summer annuals are in full glory. Pee Gee hydrangea is blooming as is Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree is very attractive. Some bluebeards are coming into flower. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Some beebalms continue as do the Joe Pye weeds. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Compass plant is coming into flower but the purple coneflowers are past prime. Many other coneflowers can still be seen. Balloon flower continues and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Surprise or magic lilies are always a welcome sight. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see slender mountain mint, western ironweed, and obedient plant. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Pickerel weed is also flowering in several locations. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas provide colorful leaves for shady gardens. Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already and the blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August 12, 2007 (Fri, 10 Aug 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses also continue and the summer annuals are in full glory. Hydrangea 'Tardiva' is still in flower. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree is still very attractive. Bluebeards are coming into flower. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Turtlehead is flowering and the Joe Pye weeds continue. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Compass plant is coming into flower but the purple coneflowers are past prime. Many other coneflowers can still be seen. The seven-son flower is just beginning and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Surprise or magic lilies are always a welcome sight. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and trumpet vine. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see slender mountain mint and obedient plant. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia and the large-flowered fragrant hosta as well as others. Hostas also provide colorful leaves for shady gardens. Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones, some of which are beginning to flower already and the blue salvia. Don't miss the unusual flowers of the buttonbush in a pool in front of the Linnean House.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August 19, 2007 (Fri, 17 Aug 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Fall is approaching but the crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses are coming back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still in full glory. Hydrangea 'Tardiva' is still in flower. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Butterfly bush continues and miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. It has a long period of bloom. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree is still very attractive. Bluebeards are flowering. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Turtlehead is flowering and the Joe Pye weeds continue. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Compass plant is flowering and some coneflowers can still be seen. The seven-son flower is just beginning and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. In the bulb gardens you can still see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and trumpet vine. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Some fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome', are starting to flower. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia and the large-flowered fragrant hosta as well as others. Our summer annuals trial beds are in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones and the blue salvia. Don't miss the unusual flowers of the buttonbush in a pool in front of the Linnean House.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August 24, 2007 (Fri, 24 Aug 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Fall is approaching but the crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses are coming back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still showy. Hydrangea 'Tardiva' is still in flower. The cardinal flower is almost past. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree still has some flowers. Bluebeards are flowering. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus are beginning to display their showy panicles. Rose of Sharons are also still in flower. Turtlehead is flowering but the Joe Pye weeds are past prime. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. Compass plant is flowering and some coneflowers can still be seen. The seven-son flower is flowering and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. In the bulb gardens you can still see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and trumpet vine. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Some fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome', are starting to flower. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. Our summer annuals trial beds are winding down and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, are flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones and the blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 2, 2007 (Fri, 31 Aug 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Fall is approaching but the crape myrtles continue in flower and are very tolerant of summer heat. Roses are coming back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still showy. A few Hydrangea 'Tardiva' are still in flower. The cardinal flower is almost past but bush clover is starting. Fountain grass is flowering and the chaste tree is still gorgeous. Bluebeards are flowering. Some butterfly bushes continue in bloom and several miscanthus are displaying their showy panicles. Rose of Sharons continue and the castor aralia is in flower near the eastern entrance to the Japanese Garden. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are starting. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. In the prairie and butterfly gardens the compass plant is flowering. The seven-son flower is flowering and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Don't miss the late-flowering golden rain tree. It is very welcome as a lovely late-flowering tree. In the bulb gardens you can still see dahlias, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are still in flower. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and trumpet vine. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Some fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome', are starting to flower. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops which are beginning to flower. Our summer annuals trial beds are winding down and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. The beds are still worth a visit. Other summer flowering annuals you can still see are vincas and petunias throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you can still see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for and enjoy are the Japanese anemones and the blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 9, 2007 (Fri, 07 Sep 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Very welcomed rain has brought new life to plants in the area and liriope and the sweet autumn clematis are in full-flower is several locations. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper experimental garden. In the Kemper Fragrance Garden smell the sweet blooms of the tuberose and enjoy the lovely blue of the long-flowering Russian sage. Crape myrtles continue in flower and add bright colors to early fall. Roses have come back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still showy but are being replaced with mums and other fall-bloomers. A few Hydrangea 'Tardiva' are still in flower. The cardinal flower is almost past but bush clover is flowering. The fountain grasses are lovely and the chaste tree is still gorgeous. Bluebeards are in full-flower. Some butterfly bushes continue in bloom and miscanthus are displaing their showy panicles. Rose of Sharons continue and the castor aralia is in flower near the eastern entrance to the Japanese Garden. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are starting. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. In the prairie and butterfly gardens the compass plant is flowering. The seven-son flower is in full-flower and the solitary clematis is lovely. The late-flowering golden rain tree is almost past. In the bulb gardens you can still see dahlias, caladiums and crinums. Many garden phlox are still in flower but they will soon be outdone by the fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome'. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. The Japanese anemones and coming into full-flower and the blue salvia is still striking. Our summer annuals are being replaced with fall blooming plants but you will still see vincas and petunias throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you can still see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 16, 2007 (Fri, 14 Sep 2007 08:42:31 CST)

In the bulb gardens you can still see dahlias, caladiums and gladiolus. Also, don't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas. Liriope is still flowering and the sweet autumn clematis is in full-flower in several locations. Cooler temperatures have brought nice fall flowering on several spiderworts, obedient plants, and gauras. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper experimental garden. In the Kemper Fragrance Garden smell the sweet blooms of the tuberose and enjoy the lovely blue of the long-flowering Russian sage. Crape myrtles continue in flower and add bright colors to early fall. Roses have come back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still showy but are being replaced with mums and other fall-bloomers. Both blue and red cardinal flowers are in flower as well as the bush clovers. The fountain grasses are lovely and the chaste tree is still gorgeous. Bluebeards are in full-flower. Some butterfly bushes continue in bloom and miscanthus are displaying their showy panicles. Rose of Sharons continue and the castor aralia is in flower near the eastern entrance to the Japanese Garden. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are starting. Plumbago is flowering in several locations. In the prairie and butterfly gardens the compass plant is flowering. Be sure and smell the flowers on the prairie dropseed. The seven-son flower is in full-flower and the solitary clematis is lovely. Some early beautyberries have showy fruit. Many garden phlox are still in flower but they will soon be outdone by the fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome'. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. In the Woodland Garden you will see white snake root. The Japanese anemones and coming into full-flower and the blue salvia is still striking. Our summer annuals are being replaced with fall blooming plants but you will still see vincas and petunias throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Some plants you can still see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 23, 2007 (Fri, 21 Sep 2007 08:42:31 CST)

In the bulb gardens you can still see dahlias, caladiums and gladiolus. Also, don't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas. Liriope and autumn clematis is still flowering in several locations. Cooler temperatures have brought nice fall flowering on several spiderworts, obedient plants, and gauras. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper experimental garden. Crape myrtles continue in flower and add bright colors to early fall. Roses have come back for a fall display and the summer annuals are still showy but are being replaced with mums and other fall-bloomers. Both blue and red cardinal flowers are in flower as well as the bush clovers. The ornamental grasses are lovely. Bluebeards are in full-flower. Some butterfly bushes continue in bloom and miscanthus are displaying their showy panicles. Rose of Sharons continue and the castor aralia is just finishing flowering near the eastern entrance to the Japanese Garden. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are flowering. Plumbago is still showy in several locations. The seven-son flower is still in full-flower and the solitary clematis is lovely. Some early beautyberries have showy fruit. Some garden phlox are still in flower but they are being outdone by the fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome' . In the Kemper Center Bird Garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Tropical waterlilies are blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. The Japanese anemones are in flower and the blue salvia is still gorgeous. Monk's-hood is flowering in the Ottoman Garden. It has very striking and unusual flowers. Some summer annuals you will still see are begonias, ageratum and pentas. Some plants you can still see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 30, 2007 (Fri, 28 Sep 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Summer bedding plants are rapidly being replaced with mums, pansies and other fall-blooming plants. Hanging baskets of mums are also showing up all over the Garden. In the bulb gardens the dahlias are loving the cooler temperatures. Caladiums and gladiolus can still be seen. Also, don't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas, which will be showy until the first frost usually around October 15th. Liriope has mostly finished blooming. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it is especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper herb garden. Crape myrtles continue in flower and add bright colors to fall. Roses continue with their fall display. Some summer annuals will remain until frost. The blue cardinal flower is still striking in the Woodland Garden. You can also enjoy the lovely yellow sage growing there as well. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Some bluebeards are still in flower. Butterfly bushes will continue to bloom until frost and some miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Rose of Sharons continue and the red berries on the prickly ash are striking. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are flowering. Plumbago can still be found in flower. The seven-son flower is past peak. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit. Fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. You can find short, ground hugging ones like the lovely heath aster as well as many mid-sized varieties. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden you can still enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Tropical waterlilies continue. Don't miss the impressive Amazon water lily. In the Prairie Garden the combination of New England asters, goldenrods and willow-leaved sunflower is striking. In shady areas you can still enjoy the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. Several of the Japanese anemones are still in flower and the blue salvia is still gorgeous. Monk's-hood is flowering in the Ottoman Garden. It has very striking and unusual flowers. Some summer annuals you will still see are begonias, ageratum and pentas. You will also still see Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and impatiens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 7, 2007 (Fri, 05 Oct 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Summer bedding plants are rapidly being replaced with mums, pansies and other fall-blooming plants. Hanging baskets of mums are also showing up all over the Garden. In the bulb gardens the dahlias are loving the cooler temperatures. Caladiums and gladiolus can still be seen. Also, don't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas, which will be showy until the first frost usually around October 15th. Liriope has mostly finished blooming. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it is especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper herb garden. Crape myrtles continue in flower and add bright colors to fall. Roses continue with their fall display. Some summer annuals will remain until frost. The blue cardinal flower is still striking in the Woodland Garden. You can also enjoy the lovely yellow sage growing there as well. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Some bluebeards are still in flower. Butterfly bushes will continue to bloom until frost and some miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Rose of Sharons continue and the red berries on the prickly ash are striking. Turtlehead continues and the goldenrods are flowering. Plumbago can still be found in flower. The seven-son flower is past peak. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit. Fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. You can find short, ground hugging ones like the lovely heath aster as well as many mid-sized varieties. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden you can still enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. Tropical waterlilies continue. Don't miss the impressive Amazon water lily. In the Prairie Garden the combination of New England asters, goldenrods and willow-leaved sunflower is striking. In shady areas you can still enjoy the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. Several of the Japanese anemones are still in flower and the blue salvia is still gorgeous. Monk's-hood is flowering in the Ottoman Garden. It has very striking and unusual flowers. Some summer annuals you will still see are begonias, ageratum and pentas. You will also still see Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and impatiens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 14, 2007 (Fri, 12 Oct 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Due to the recent very warm weather fall color has not started yet but with cooler days and nights it should be starting soon. Some of the first plants to watch for are sassafras and dogwood. In a couple of weeks the Garden will be bright colors of yellow, orange, and red. Mums, pansies and other fall-blooming plants have been planted throughout the Garden. Hanging baskets of mums are also showing up all over the Kemper Center gardens. on't miss the spectacular alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas in the bulb gardens, which will be showy until the first frost. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it is especially showy. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper Herb garden. In the Japanese garden, the mum display is well worth the walk to view. Roses continue with their fall display. Some summer annuals will remain until frost, after which they will be replaced with spring-blooming bulbs. The blue cardinal flower is still attractive in the Woodland Garden. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Don't miss the lovely willow-leaved sunflower 'First Light' in the Kemper Bird Garden. Butterfly bushes will continue with sparse bloom until frost but some miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. The red berries on the prickly ash in the Native Garden are striking. Turtlehead continues with a few last flowers and the goldenrods are still flowering. Fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. You can find short, ground hugging ones like the lovely heath aster as well as many mid-sized varieties. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden you can still enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. In the Prairie Garden the combination of the asters, goldenrods and willow-leaved sunflower is striking. Several of the Japanese anemones are still in flower. Monk's-hood is flowering in the Ottoman Garden. It has very striking and unusual flowers. Some summer annuals you will still see are begonias, vincas, and pentas. You will also still see Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and impatiens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 21, 2007 (Fri, 19 Oct 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color is late this year. It is just beginning. Some plants to watch for color are sassafras, dogwood, and ashes. Some maples are also beginning to show color. In about two weeks the Garden will be bright colors of yellow, orange, and red. Mums continue and pansies have been planted throughout the Garden for fall as well as spring bloom. Several hanging baskets of mums are still showy. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it is especially showy. Mexican bush sage and pineapple sage are lovely late-flowering salvias. Be sure and look for the wonderful toad lilies. Also don't miss the spectacular hyacinth bean in the Kemper Herb garden. In the Japanese garden, the mum display is still well worth the walk to view. Roses will continue with their fall display up to frost. Some summer annuals will also remain until frost, after which they will be replaced with spring-blooming bulbs. The blue cardinal flower is still attractive in the Woodland Garden and the beautyberries still have attractive, showy fruit. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Don't miss the lovely willow-leaved sunflower 'First Light' in the Kemper Bird Garden. Butterfly bushes will continue with sparse bloom until frost but some miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Turtlehead continues with a few last flowers and the goldenrods are still flowering. Fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. You can find short, ground hugging ones like the lovely heath aster as well as many mid-sized varieties. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden you can still enjoy scarlet rose mallow. You will also see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. In the Prairie Garden the combination of the asters, goldenrods and willow-leaved sunflower is striking. Several of the Japanese anemones are still in flower. Monk's-hood is flowering in the Ottoman Garden. It has very striking and unusual flowers. Some summer annuals you will still see are begonias, vincas, and pentas. You will also still see Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and impatiens.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 28, 2007 (Fri, 26 Oct 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color is still just starting but do come and view the striking sassafras near Tower Grove House and enjoy dogwoods in the English Woodland Garden, which are coloring up nicely. Also note the flowers on the common witchhazels. Maples and ashes are beginning to show color and as leaves fall the colorful fruit on many crabapples will be showy. Mums and pansies continue to be striking. The pansies will remain all winter to return in Spring to bloom with the spring bulbs. Salvia guaranitica has been flowering all summer but now it's last flowers are especially showy in combination with orange fall colors. Mexican bush sage and pineapple sage remain very attractive. You can still find some of the wonderful toad lilies. And allow enough time to walk through the Japanese garden, the mum display and early fall color is well worth the walk to view. Roses and dahlias continue in flower. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit with a very bright unusual color. The lovely pinkish fruit of the spindletree should not be missed. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. The red berries on the prickly ash in the Native Garden are still striking. Though past peak, fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. Take note of 'Jindai' and 'Purple Dome'. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden, you will see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. The bluestars have very nice fall color and some goldenrods are still showy. The Japanese anemones are nearly finished but the Monk's-hood in the Ottoman Garden is still striking. It has very unusual flowers.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November 4, 2007 (Fri, 02 Nov 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color continues to come slowly but recent frosts should hasten color development. Be sure and come and view the striking sassafras near Tower Grove House and enjoy dogwoods in the English Woodland Garden, which are coloring up nicely. Also note the flowers on the common witchhazels. An autumn treat. Maples and ashes are showing color. Mums and pansies continue to be striking. The pansies will remain all winter to return in Spring to bloom with the spring bulbs. Mexican bush sage and pineapple sage remain very attractive. You can still find some of the wonderful toad lilies. And allow enough time to walk through the Japanese garden, the mum display and early fall color is well worth the walk to view. Roses and dahlias continue in flower. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit with a very bright unusual color. The lovely pinkish fruit of the spindletree should not be missed. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. The red berries on the prickly ash in the Native Garden are still striking. Though past peak, fall asters are flowering throughout the Garden and are lovely. Take note of 'Jindai' in the Experimental Garden. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden, you will see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. The bluestars have very nice fall color and some goldenrods are still showy. The Japanese anemones are nearly finished but the Monk's-hood in the Ottoman Garden is still striking. It has very unusual flowers.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November 11, 2007 (Fri, 9 Nov 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color should be at peak this week. Be sure and come to enjoy it. There are also other treasures to be seen. It is rare to see a shrub just comes into full flower this time of year but that is what the common witch-hazel does. Its light lemon-yellow flowers can be enjoyed in several locations. The fruit on the heavenly bamboo is also noteworthy. You can still enjoy the chestnut-brown of the bald cypress, but as soon as the leaves of ginkgo turn yellow they drop. You may not see many leaves on the trees but the yellow carpet below is delightful. Berries on American holly are also very showy. Some Ozark witch hazels have attractive yellow leaves. Pansies are thriving in many beds underplanted with tulips for a spectacular spring bloom. Salvia guaranitica still has some flowers and the fall color of fothergilla is of special note. Itea is starting to be colorful in some areas. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Though well past peak, a few fall asters are still flowering. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden, you will see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November 18, 2007 (Fri, 16 Nov 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Fall color is past peak but there is still a lot of nice fall color to enjoy. By the end of the week, however, most leaves will be on the ground. Be sure and come to enjoy the color early in the week. There are also other treasures to be seen. It is rare to see a shrub just comes into full flower this time of year but that is what the common witch-hazel does. Its light lemon-yellow flowers can be enjoyed in several locations. The fruit on the heavenly bamboo is also noteworthy. You can still enjoy the chestnut-brown of the bald cypress, but the leaves of ginkgo have alrelady turned yellow and dropped. Berries on American holly are showy. Some Ozark witch hazels have attractive yellow leaves. Pansies are thriving in many beds underplanted with tulips for a spectacular spring bloom. The fall color of fothergilla is of special note. Itea is starting to be colorful. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden, you will see a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November 25, 2007 (Fri, 23 Nov 2007 08:42:31 CST)

Eastern witch-hazel is still flowering in a few locations and the fruit on the heavenly bamboo is noteworthy. Pansies continue to be very colorful. Fruit on hollies is still very attractive. Also take note of the fruit on the coralberry, which is a Missouri native. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Some iteas still have colorful leaves. Plants with other noteworty winter features are the berries on winterberries and the attractive bark on the paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods add bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias. Some cyclamens are also beginning to bloom. Now is also a great time to take a closer look at many of the superb evergreens growing in the Garden. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Norway spruce is a good large growing evegreen for the area and sawara cypress makes a dependable evegreen under 6 feet tall.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December 2, 2007 (Fri, 30 Nov 2007 08:42:31 CST)

The common witch-hazel will still be flowering in a few locations and the fruit on the heavenly bamboo will still be noteworthy. Pansies are still looking nice. Fruit on hollies is still very attractive. Also take note of the fruit on the coralberry, which is a Missouri native. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Plants with other noteworthy winter features are the berries on winterberries and the attractive bark on the paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods adds bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens and impatiens. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Norway spruce is a good large growing evergreen for the area. Sawara cypress makes a dependable evergreen under 6 feet tall.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December 9, 2007 (Fri, 07 Dec 2007 08:42:31 CST)

The beautiful structure of trees around the Garden continues to brighten the winter landscape as winter sets in. The fruit on the heavenly bamboo is still noteworthy. Pansies are peaking through the snow and in warm weather you may catch a flower hear and there but the real show won't be back until spring. Fruit on hollies is still attractive. Also take note of the fruit on the coralberry, which is a Missouri native. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Plants with other noteworty winter features are the berries on winterberries and the attractive bark on the paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods adds bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Norway spruce is a good large growing evergreen for the area. Sawara cypress makes a dependable garden evergreen under 6 feet tall.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December 16, 2007 (Fri, 14 Dec 2007 08:42:31 CST)

On crisp mornings the frost on the Garden is lovely and a light covering of snow adds to its winter beauty. The fruit on the heavenly bamboo provides a touch of color and pansies peaking through the snow assure us that Spring is not all that far away. Fruit on hollies and coralberries are still attractive. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. The feathery texture of miscanthus will be attractive until late winter. Plants with other noteworthy winter features to enjoy are the berries on winterberries and the attractive bark on the paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods adds bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque be sure and take a stroll to see them. Also note Norway spruce, which is a good large growing evergreen for the area. Sawara cypress, one of our Plants of Merit, makes a dependable garden evergreen under 6 feet tall.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December 23, 2007 (Fri, 21 Dec 2007 08:42:31 CST)

The shortest day of the year is behind us but spring is still two months away. Still a walk through the Garden is delightful and before long we may see some early flowers on a few x intermedia witch-hazel that typically bloom in February. You also can't help but appreciate the many beaurtiful dogwoods grown for their colorful winter stems. Winter is also a wonderful time to appreciate the structure, bark, and branching of trees around the Garden as well as views hidden in summer with foliage. The heavenly bamboo still has some fruit and warm weather will bring out a few pansy flowers. Some hollies still have fruit, but they slowly disappear as they are eaten by birds. The fruit on the coralberry, which is a Missouri native, is still noteworthy for this time of year. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Some other plants with noteworthy winter bark are Japanese stewartia, paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods adds bright colors to the winter landscape. In the Linnean House you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Also appreciate the many evergreen around the Garden, which add texture to the winter scene. This concludes our Plants in Bloom podcasts for 2007. We hope you have enjoyed them and return in 2008 to learn more about the plant treasures at the Garden. As always, you can learn more about these plant by going to www.mobot.org and clicking on Plants in Bloom.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January 2008 (Fri, 04 Jan 2008 08:42:31 CST)

Pansies and violas flower until severe cold arrives. Additional flowering occurs sporadically during mild winter spells. Well-rooted plants will begin to grow and flower heavily again with the arrival of spring. The fragrant vernal or Ozark witchhazel (Hamamelis vernalis) blooms on warm, sunny days. Fruits of the winterberry holly (Ilex verticillata) are persistent and showy until eaten by wildlife. Especially noteworthy are the clump (I. verticillata 'Afterglow') by the statue of Henry Shaw by Tower Grove House, and the hedges (I. verticillata 'Red Sprite') in the Kemper Bird Garden. Camellias begin their winter show in the Linnean House, building toward peak bloom in mid to late February. Cyclamen and Rex begonias brighten the beds beneath the camellia trees. The sweet aroma of the Fragrant olive trees (Osmanthus fragrans) wafts throughout the house. It may be winter outside, but spring begins in the Shoenberg Temperate House in January. Come smell the incredible sweet fragrance of the winter daphne (Daphne odora 'Marginata') and enjoy the fuzzy yellow blossoms of the Australian Cootamundra wattle (Acacia baileyana). The tiled Moorish Garden features seasonal annuals, roses, and cyclamen. Snowdrops begin blooming in the Mausoleum, English Woodland, and the Kemper Bird Gardens. Flowering apricot trees (Prunus mume) bloom sporadically in the Chinese Garden after mild winter spells. On cold January days many floral treats await you in the Climatron. It is an oasis of beauty and warmth. You will always find orchids to enjoy as well as other season bloomers such as angel trumpet and powder puffs. The Climatron always has many lovely plants and flowers to enjoy every month of the year. January walks around the Garden will reward you with many picturesque views, interesting branch structures, and trees with attractive bark. Another obvious destination is the Japanese Garden where the flower of winter - snow - can result in spectacular landscapes.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February 2008 (Fri, 01 Feb 2008 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March 2008 (Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:42:31 CST)

Our spectacular orchid show continues in early March and should not be missed. It is a yearly highlight for many Garden visitors and a wonderful treat for gardeners looking for spectacular flowers while there is still snow ourdoors. In the Linnean House camellias peak this month. You can also enjoy the sweet smell of the fragrant olive and the colorful cyclamens and primroses that thrive in this cool greenhouse. The Climatron should also be a destination for its warmth and spectacular late winter show. You can enjoy the powder puff tree (Calliandra haematocephala), Clerodendron splendens, and Hibiscus schizopetalus. Also of note is the bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) and the chenille plant (Acalypha hispida). Alongside in the cooler Shoenberg Temperate House you will see plants from many of the world’s more temperate areas. Take note of the paperbush (Edgeworthia papyrifera), primrose jasmine (Jasminum mesneyi), and the calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica). The bright orange of the California poppy (Escholtzia californica) shouldn't be missed. Outdoors late-winter snowdrops continue in bloom and will be joined by winter aconite. Crocus and reticulated iris will also start to bloom as days warm. Early clumps of the Lenten rose and striped squill are also not uncommon. Winter flowering witch-hazels continue and will be joined by more and more x intermedias as well as Chinese witch-hazels as the month progresses. Late in the month the witch-hazels will be replaced with the equally lovely winter hazels. The winter and fragrant honeysuckles and the cornelian cherry have small flowers but are lovely examined closeup. Towards the end of the month the weeping cherries begin flowering. They are joined by star magnolias, saucer magnolias and Bradford pears as long as the weather cooperates and late killing frosts pass us by. Early daffodils start late in the month. The first to appear are the dwarf cultivars such as ‘Peeping Tom’, Cassata’, and the very reliable ‘Tete-a-Tete’. In the Woodland Garden 'February Gold' is always spectacular. Later in the month enjoy more later flowering crocus as well as wind anemone and grape hyacinth. Striped squil continues and is joined by glory of the snow. By the end of the month the bulb gardens will be in regal form. Don’t miss the sweet fragrance of hyacinths, the bright faces of pansies and the striking Virginia bluebells. Flowering shrubs adding to the riot of color are forsythia, redbud and spicebush. Flowering peaches, cherries and Japanese quinces will be popping. Low to the ground don’t miss the lovely blue flowers of vinca, the first flowers on the lungworts and the stunning pasque flower.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April 2008 (Fri, 28 Mar 2008 08:42:31 CST)

Early in the month tulips usually peak and should not be missed. They are joined with cherries which have a short time when they are at peak. Flowering crabapples will also be in full flower along with serviceberries and bird cherries. Redbuds and whitebuds join in are closely followed by the flowering dogwoods. Pansies make lovely displays with the bulbs and also in the Kemper Center’s Pansy Trial Beds. Many spring-flowering annuals, such as toadflax will be in flower all month. Virginia bluebells, pasque flower, and windflowers continue into mid month. Also of note are candytuft, bugleweed, and the epimediums. The flowering bulbs will be continuing through the month. Don’t miss the always charming grape hyacinth as well as the very fragrant true hyacinth. Many spring-flowerering shrubs will be in peak form including: the Koreanspice viburnum, Japanese quince, and fothergilla. Throughout the month there will be a lovely show of flowers in the Shoenberg Temperate House. You can enjoy Callistemon citrinus, Euphorbia dendroides, and Rosa banksia‘Alba Plena’. In the Climatron enjoy a wide range of tropical plants and flowers. Take note of Thunbergia erecta, Sinningia cardinalis, and Passiflora vitifolia. A few camellias will still be in flower in the Linnean House and the sweet-smelling jasmine and the colorful cyclamens are most enjoyable. By mid-month azalea will be making a good showing. Lilacs will be in flower. Don’t miss the small Solomon’s seal and Spanish bluebells, both Plants of Merit, along with camas. The tree peonies are loved by all. Some wonderful Missouri native plants to look for are the blackhaw viburnum, golden ragwort, and celandine poppy. Woodland phlox, creeping phlox, and mountain bluet will be showy. Late in the month hawthorns and irises will begin. The red buckeye, horsechestnut, and empress tree will be starting. Blueberries flower now along with the black chokeberry. Other plants chiming in will be spiderworts, wild geraniums, and bluestar. Noteworthy shrubs will be the lantanophyllum viburnum, nannyberry, and European cranberry bush. Don’t miss the fragrant flowers of the Carolina allspice and the first flowers of the weigelas.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May 2008 (Thu, 1 May 2008 08:42:31 CST)

Late flowering azaleas and evergreen rhododendrons begin flowering this month and iris will continue. The doublefile viburnums are also very showy. Red buckeye, horsechetnut, and empress tree continue. Kousa dogwood, spireas, and ninebarks will also begin early in the month. Spiderworts, wild geraniums, and bluestar continue. They will be joined by columbine, coral bells and early flowering sages such as ‘Viola Klose.’ Climbing hydrangeas, trumpet honeysuckle, and weigela are showy. Beautybushes will be covered with flowers and many clematis will be in bloom. Mountain bluet will be striking and the bleeding hearts charming. Violas and spring-flowering annuals perform well if the weather remains cool. There will still be several late flowering bulbs in the bulb gardens including flowering onions and Spanish bluebells. Peonies will be begin and continue through about the second week in May. Rhododendrons continue and are joined by deutzias, itea, and fringe tree. Styrax, bigleaf magnolia, and the alternate-leaved butterfly bush, three lesser known shrubs, come into flower mid-month. Don’t miss the sweet smelling mockoranges, the striking false indigo, and the bright yellow flag. Late in the month roses will be in full glory. Note the colorful leaves of the smoketree, the sweet-smelling flowers of lindens, and the very showy variegated foliage of the tricolor beech. Oakleaf hydranges, sweetbay magnolia, and the Japanese tree lilac are well worth searching out. Perennials that will add into the show with those found blooming early in the month will include bellflowers, catnips, and the many veronicas. Astilbes will be starting joined by the gorgeous Penstemon cobaea and long-blooming pincushion flower. Late in the month our summer annuals will be planted and will include vincas, petunias and many other tried and true as well as new varieties. Also late in the month some of our spectacular hydrangeas will be starting. Two lovely ones to take note of are ‘Nikko Blue’ and ‘Tokyo Delight.’

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June 2008 (Thu, 29 May 2008 08:42:31 CST)

Roses will be in full-flower this month. Southern magnolia will provide large showy flowers and the sweet-smelling lindens small inconspicuous ones. Iteas continue in bloom and are joined by nandina and ‘Little Princess’ spirea. Spiderworts, wild geraniums and blue stars continue in bloom. Coral bells continue and are joined by guaras and many sages and salvias. Catalpa will be very show at the Garden and around town and the lovely oakleaf drangeas will top their attractive foliage with spikes of bright white panicles. Herbaceous perennials coming into flower will include yarrow, catnips and veronicas. All have a long summer bloom period. Clematis remain in flower and astilbes reach peak this month. Mockoranges will be waning but the purple poppy mallow and red-hot pokers will be adding to the early summer display. Our summer annuals will be growing rapidly and by the end of the month many will be covered with flowers. You can enjoy well-tested standbys like vinca and petunias. Also enjoy many new varieties such as pentas, lantanas, and caricature plant. Mid-month lilies will be in full flower. Japanese iris and the sacred lotus flower will be lovely in the Japanese Garden. Also mid-month look for the large clusters of white flowers on elderberries. Daylilies will begin to flower as well as the bright showy prickly pear cactus. Look for St. John’s worts as well as the purple coneflowers and Ural false spirea. Balloon flowers are always fun to see and the bright orange of butterfly weed is a welcome sight in the garden as well as along roadsides this time of year. Plants in flower are numerous this month. You may see lavenders, Missouri primrose and trumpet creeper in flower. Shasta daisies, Stokes asters and the charming, but invasive, gooseneck loosestrife can also be seen. Look for the unusual bear’s breeches. Check out our many container where you will find Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla and scaevola amoung other all-summer bloomers. Late in the month the golden raintree, tamarisk, and chaste tree will add to the color. Also of note will be the buttonbush, Russian sage, and the monardas. Three showy rose of Sharons to take note of are ‘Diana’, Minera’, and ‘Aphrodite.’ Around town you will see mimosa in flower.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July 2008 (Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August 2008 (Tue, 29 Jul 2008 08:42:31 CST)

In August the Garden will be alive with summer flowers and colorful displays. Early in the month the Japanese pagoda tree will still be flowering and all month you will see crape myrtles, which are very tolerant of summer heat. A few daylilies will still be showy and roses continue in flower. The summer annuals are in full summer glory. Pee Gee hydrangea continues as does Hydrangea 'Tardiva'. Enjoy the bright red of the cardinal flower. Summer sweets will be finishing but the chaste tree will be very attractive all month. A few early bluebeards come into flower. Butterfly bush continues in bloom and some miscanthus begin to display their showy panicles. 'Rose Carpet' indigo is a great ground cover for a sunny location. Rose of Sharons continue in flower. Turtleheads will begin flowering mid-month and the Joe Pye weeds will reach their full glory. Plumbago will be flowering in several locations. Compass plant will begin early in the month and many cultivars of purple coneflowers as well as other coneflowers can be seen. Balloon flower continues and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Surprise lilies are always a welcome sight in early to mid-August. In the bulb gardens you will see gladiolus, caladiums and crinums. Blackberry and candy lilies are still in flower early in the month. Some garden phlox can be enjoyed all month. In the Kemper Center's prairie and butterfly gardens you will see slender mountain mint, western ironweed, and obedient plant. Tropical waterlilies will be blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Pickerel weed may also be seen in flower. Oxeye daisy brings bright yellow flowers to summer and the speedwells bring colors ranging from white to pink to blue. Hostas provide colorful leaves for shady gardens. Our summer annuals trial beds will be in full flower and real differences can be observed in cultivar performance. Other summer flowering annuals, including vincas and petunias, will be flowering throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note may be begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you may see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you will see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for are Japanese anemones and the striking blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September 2008 (Mon, 01 Sep 2008 08:42:31 CST)

Fall is approaching but you will find some crape myrtles in flower throughout the month. Roses will also be coming back for a fall display and the summer annuals will be very showy. Early in the month a few Hydrangea 'Tardiva' will still be in flower. You may find some cardinal flowes still blooming and the bush clovers will be starting. Fountain grass will be flowering and the chaste tree continues. Bluebeards will be flowering. Some butterfly bushes continue in bloom and several miscanthus will be displaying their showy panicles all fall and into the winter. Rose of Sharons continue and the castor aralia near the eastern entrance to the Japanese Garden flowers most of the month. Some jewels of fall that begin flowering this month are turtleheads and the goldenrods. Plumbago will be showy in several locations. In the prairie and butterfly gardens the compass plant flowers and around the garden don't miss the lovely toadlilies. Mid-month some of the early beautyberries will begin to color-up with more becoming show later in the month. The seven-son flower will be flowering and the large-flowering herbaceous mallows are impressive. Don't miss the late-flowering golden rain tree. It is very welcome as a lovely late-flowering tree. Fall is a great time for dahlias, caladiums, and maybe some fall gladiolus. Many garden phlox will still have flowers and liriope will produce lovely purple flowers followed by black pea-size fruits. The sweet-smelling autumn clematis vine begins early in the month. In the Kemper Center bird garden enjoy scarlet rose mallow and trumpet vine. Tropical waterlilies will still be blooming and you may also catch a flower on the impressive Amazon water lily. Some fall asters, such as 'Purple Dome', will be starting to flower. In shady areas you may see the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. Our summer annuals trial beds will be winding down but you will observed real differences in cultivar performance. Other summer flowering annuals you can still see are vincas and petunias throughout the Garden. Other annuals of note will be begonias, ageratum and pentas. Still others you will see are lantana, heliotrope, and caricature plant. Some plants you can still see in our summer baskets and containers include Chinese hibiscus, mandevilla, and scaevola. Other plants to look for and enjoy are the Japanese anemones and the blue salvia.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October 2008 (Wed, 01 Oct 2008 08:42:31 CST)

In October our summer bedding plants will be replaced with mums, pansies and other fall-blooming plants. Hanging baskets of mums will also show up around the Garden. In the bulb gardens the dahlias and caladiums will be attractive until the first killing frost. Likewise, alocasias, colocasias and xanthosomas will be showy until the first frost, which usually arrives around October 15th. Late flowering toad lilies will still be attractive as will the ornamental grasses. Crape myrtles continue in flower and add bright colors to fall. Roses continue with their fall display. Some summer annuals will remain until killed by frost. Butterfly bushes will continue to bloom and some bluebeards will still be in flower. Rose of Sharons continue and the red berries on the prickly ash will be striking. Turtleheads and goldenrods continue in flower. Plumbago should still have some late flowers and if not its fall color is still very attractive. The seven-son flower will be past peak but some of the beautyberries will still have attractive showy fruit. Fall asters continue flowering throughout the Garden. You will find short, ground hugging ones like the lovely heath aster as well as many mid-sized varieties. Mid to late in the month fall color will begin with cooler days and nights. Some of the first plants to watch for are sassafras and dogwood. Following, in a couple of weeks the Garden will be bright colors of yellow, orange, and red. Tropical waterlilies continue and don't miss the impressive Amazon water lily if frost holds off. In the Prairie Garden the combination of New England asters, goldenrods and willow-leaved sunflower will be striking. In shady areas you can still be able to enjoy the hardy begonia. In sunny areas look for the showy stonecrops. Several of the Japanese anemones will still be in flower and the blue salvia may still be gorgeous.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November 2008 (Sat, 01 Nov 2008 08:42:31 CST)

Early November is a great time to see fall color in the Garden. Early in the month be sure and view the striking sassafras near Tower Grove House and enjoy dogwoods in the English Woodland Garden. Also note the flowers on the common witchhazels. An autumn treat. Maples and ashes will also be showing color. Mums and pansies continue to be striking. The pansies will remain all winter to return in Spring to bloom with the spring bulbs. Mexican bush sage and pineapple sage remain very attractive up to a killing frost. Early in the month you can still find some of the wonderful toad lilies. And allow enough time to walk through the Japanese garden, the mum display and fall color is well worth the walk to view. Roses and dahlias continue in flower up to frost. The beautyberries have attractive, showy fruit with a very bright unusual color. The lovely pinkish fruit of the spindletree should not be missed. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. The red berries on the prickly ash in the Native Garden are striking early in the month. Though past peak, fall asters can continue into November. Be sure and take note of 'Jindai' in the Experimental Garden. In the Kemper Center Bird Garden we usually get a great crop of red berries on the winterberry, which will provide many months of winter color. The bluestars will have very nice fall color and some goldenrods should still be showy. The Japanese anemones finish early in the month but the Monk's-hood in the Ottoman Garden may still be in flower. It has very unusual flowers.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December 2008 (Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:42:31 CST)

By December fall color is past and we are into winter but don't miss enjoying the beautiful structure of trees around the Garden. They continue to brighten the winter landscape as winter sets in. The fruit on the heavenly bamboo will still be noteworthy. Pansies will be peaking through the snow and in warm weather you may catch a flower hear and there but the real show won't be back until spring. Fruit on hollies will still be attractive. Also take note of the fruit on the coralberry, which is a Missouri native. The ornamental grasses remain lovely. Miscanthus will display their showy panicles until late winter. Plants with other noteworthy winter features are the berries on winterberries and the attractive bark on the paperbark maple and river birch. Colorful bark on many of the shrub dogwoods adds bright colors to winter. In the Linnean House, late in December, you can enjoy some early camellias as well as cyclamens. The pines in the Japanese Garden are always picturesque. Norway spruce is a good large growing evergreen for the area. Sawara cypress makes a dependable garden evergreen under 6 feet tall.

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January (Fri, 02 Jan 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February (Sun, 01 Feb 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March (Mon, 02 Mar 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April (Fri, 17 Apr 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May (Fri, 1 May 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June (Mon, 18 May 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July (Wed, 01 Jul 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: August (Fri, 31 Jul 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: September (Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: October (Thu, 01 Oct 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: November (Sun, 01 Nov 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: December (Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: January (Fri, 01 Jan 2010 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: February (Mon, 01 Feb 2010 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: March (Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: April (Thu, 01 Apr 2010 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: May (Sat, 01 May 2010 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: June (Tue, 01 Jun 2010 08:42:31 CST)

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MBG Plants in Bloom: July (Wed, 30 Jun 2010 08:42:31 CST)

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