As May unfolds and our gardens burst forth with vibrant colors, we find ourselves immersed in the excitement of the season. In light of this blooming spectacle, we're thrilled to present a fresh selection of standout plants for your consideration this month.
Among these botanical marvels are species that have returned after a hiatus or were once elusive in availability, each lending its distinctive allure to landscaping projects. If you’re ready to uncover the perfect addition for your outdoor sanctuary, check out the details outlined below to elevate your outdoor space to new heights!
Ramapo Rhododendron
Image source: Monrovia Nurseries
Description:
This beautiful dwarf rhododendron has large trusses of lovely purple spring flowers that provide a beautiful contrast to the green foliage. A very compact evergreen shrub that is perfect for small gardens in cool, damp climates. A terrific choice when a small accent plant with great presence is needed. Equally well-suited for a low hedge.
Species Specs
Height: 3’
Spread: 4’
Shape: Shrub
Exposure: Partial Sun
Foliage: Green
Zone: 4-8
Plant Care:
Plant shallowly in a location protected from strong winter winds. Protect from frost to prevent damage to flowers. Mulch annually with leaf mold to retain moisture, control weeds, and cool the soil. Removing spent flowers promotes new growth.
Blizzard Mockorange
Image source: Bailey Nurseries
Description:
A selection from a seedling population of Philadelphus lewisii collected in Alberta, Canada, that has proven hardy to zone 3. It blooms in June for up to 4 weeks with single, white fragrant flowers borne in clusters. It forms a medium sized upright shrub that is tolerant of full sun. The name 'Blizzard' was chosen for both the profuse amount of spring bloom and the extreme winter hardiness of this fine plant.
Species Specs
Height: 4-5’
Spread: 3’
Shape: Upright
Exposure: Full Sun
Foliage: Green
Zone: 3-7
Plant Care:
It is not picky about soil type, and it is drought tolerant once established. If pruning is needed, do so just after the shrub finishes blooming. This shrub responds well to renewal pruning, in which the oldest stems are cut off at the base.
Dianthus EverLast™ White+Eye
Image source: Sandy’s Plants
Description:
Compact mounds of grassy blue-green foliage produce pretty semi-double, white blooms with soft pink centers starting in spring and continuing into summer with a final burst in autumn. Fragrant and great for cutting.
Species Specs
Height: 8-12”
Spread: 12-14”
Shape: Mounded
Exposure: Full Sun
Foliage: Bluegreen
Zone: 4-9
Plant Care:
Water deeply once a week, letting the soil dry out between waterings. Avoid wetting the leaves, as this can lead to fungal issues.
Throughout the year, remove any stems or leaves that look diseased or damaged. Come fall, prune back the plant until there are only 1 to 2 inches of stem remaining above the soil. The plant will go dormant for the season and regrow the following spring.
Sensation Lilac
Image source: Bailey Nurseries
Description:
A mutation of 'Hugo de Vries' with single purple florets and a distinctive pure white border. An outstanding and unique lilac. Rarely to never fed on by Japanese beetles. We have seen occasional reversion to solid creamy white blossoms.
Species Specs
Height: 8-10’
Spread: 8-12’
Shape: Upright
Exposure: Full Sun
Foliage: Bluegreen
Zone: 3-7
Plant Care:
Promptly deadhead spent blossoms to produce more robust blooms for the following year. Prune lightly or renovate in late winter or early spring to maintain a healthy framework, remembering that most species form flowers the previous season. Plant in areas with good air circulation to thwart disease.