Plants for Backyard Color



magnolia trees are truly symbol of South

With their glossy foliage and waxy, fragrant blossoms, magnolia trees are truly a symbol of the South.

To fit this backyard's dimensions, we've selected the dwarf Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem'). A smaller cousin of the stately tree, the Little Gem still produces the magnificent blossoms but can be kept pruned to the size of a small tree or large shrub. What makes the magnolia really beautiful are the large leaves and the huge flowers. Those do great in the South, but in areas that are colder, like the Northeast, you can substitute a plant like paulonia, which has equally huge leaves and flowers. You'll get the same effect of a romantic, strong statement tree that can really take the cold.


daylilies are signature plant of South

On one end of the arc with the magnolia trees, place a bed of Starburst Salmon Evergreen daylilies (Hemerocallis x 'Monon').

These are another signature -- but not native -- plant of the South. They will help define the areas of the walkway in the same way that the groundcover roses are doing on the opposite side.

daylilies are easy to grow and are also edible

Daylilies are very easy to grow -- and as they're also edible, they can be added to dinners, desserts and salads.

Facts About Daylilies
In fact, daylilies -- which originated in China -- are an essential ingredient in hot-and-sour soup and are best when they're just opening. Because the red varieties tend to be somewhat bitter, if you plan to grow daylilies to eat, you should choose the yellow ones.



endless summer hydrangea have big blue blooms




euryops daisies are great choice along fence

What would a Southern garden be without daisies?

Behind the clothesline, and in close proximity to the blue hydrangeas, plant a bed of green-leaved euryops (Euryops pectinatus 'Viridis'). Euryops come from South Africa; they like lots of sun, and they don't like lots of water. One thing about euryops that's fantastic is that they bloom quite a long period of time. Remember: They are short-lived perennials. They'll go from three to seven years, but eventually you're going to have to tear them out and replant them or cut them back and rejuvenate them. Euryops daisies are a great choice along this fence. The bright yellow of the flowers contrasts nicely with the wood, and they'll bloom almost year-round.

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