Many of the annuals died, their colors turning from yellow, orange, pink, purple and white to brown. Time to go looking for what survived.
One of my favorite fall bloomers has come through with flying colors. I'm not sure who the little visitor was but he was gone once the sun warmed up the air.
Ajania pacificum, also known as Chrysanthemum pacificum, is blooming just as predicted. It took a little damage during the hot, dry summer but I just ran my fingers along the stem to remove the crispy leaves. I think that I have underrated this plant. Given to me more than 10 years ago it languished beneath a yaupon holly, until I finally removed the tree two years ago. Then it just took off spreading by rhizomes to make a mat of silver-tinged green leaves, which reach a height of 1' during the growing season. It is very tolerant of our Texas heat and humidity.
Tucked beneath these stems are the new rosettes of next year's growth. I plan to move a few to other places in late winter. It has been suggested to cut the plants back by 1/3 in July to reduce their height. Although this has not been a problem for me I do see how the stems could become too heavy and lie down un her their own weight.
This might be a good plant for the rock garden.
I've come so close to almost buying that plant many a time, I love the foliage. The flowers? Not so much.
ReplyDeleteThat reminds me of the those who suggest cutting the flowers off Santolina, which are very similar. I like both flowers and yesterday there were hundreds of tiny pollinators on them yes.
DeleteIt's always interesting when a plant bides its time waiting for the right conditions to take off. Based on the name, I checked to see if this might be a prospect for my garden but it seems it's not. A pity. I hope you enjoyed a great Thanksgiving, Jenny!
ReplyDeleteI'm afraid that I frequently plant things that get completely crowded out by the bullies and they just wither away. This plant is made of stronger stuff. So happy I got rid of that annoying tree.
DeleteI used to grow this and for the life of me I don't remember why I dug it up. I love the wonderful crisp white edge to the foliage. I need to get another one !
ReplyDeleteI am more than happy that it has finally started to spread. Maybe I will be sorry in the end.
DeleteBeautiful foliage--hope you don't have too much frost damage.
ReplyDeleteThat's a beautiful mum! I know it's hardy around here in zone 5, too, and it blooms through most of November. So I'm not surprised it came through your cold snap unscathed. Tough plants like that are amazing! I love the foliage, too!
ReplyDelete