Sometimes in the blazing heat of summer we tend to shy away from the garden and retreat to more comfortable spots like the pool, the mall or just potato out on the couch. Weeding, pruning and watering when its 100 degrees outside is not the most enjoyable thing to do, so wouldn’t life be easier if plants just took care of themselves and looked beautiful all the time? Unfortunately most plants do not have that capability, but there are some that come close: conifers. Conifers are easy maintenance, architecturally stunning, and blend well with broadleaf plants in the landscape. With so many styles, sizes, varieties and colors to choose from, there is sure to be one or more that are perfect for that tough spot in your garden!
co·ni·fer/ˈkänəfər/ : a plant that bears cones with needlelike or scalelike leaves.
I recently made a trip to Portland OR, where some of the most beautiful and exotic plants in the world are grown. During my time there, I ran across quite a few tasty treats that I just had to have for the garden center, many of which were coniferous evergreens. I must tell you, I have a soft spot in my heart for conifers. The first one I ever planted in my own yard was a Cryptomeria japonica ‘Black Dragon’ many years ago. I have not watered it since the first year it was planted, yet each year it becomes more beautiful and naturally sculpted with absolutely no maintenance. I’ve been a huge fan ever since. Black Dragon is a slow growing upright conical evergreen with dark green needles that will not bronze in the winter. Well suited for containers, small gardens, or as a conversation piece anywhere in the garden where you have lots of sunlight. Black Dragon is heat tolerant and can withstand periods of extreme drought with no problems.
Cryptomeria japonica ‘Black Dragon’
Another wonderful selection that is very dear to my heart is Chamaecyparis thyoides ‘Red Star’. I know, these botanical names are a mouthful! But once you’ve planted one and your neighbors are asking “What is that amazing plant?” you will be happy to tell them ”Oh that? It’s my Red Star Chamaecyparis I bought at The Gardens of Blackhawk” and they will think you are some kind of plant guru. Red Star has a tight upright form with congested small needles that are blue-green most of the year then reddish purple in the winter, which is where it gets its name. Red Star is a great addition to any garden and requires only part sun but can thrive in full sun as well. Slow growing and heat tolerant. Once established, zero maintenance.
Chamaecyparis thyoides ‘Red Star’
When you think of cool conifers, usually junipers are not the first thing that comes to mind. That’s only because you haven’t seen Juniperus x media ‘Daub’s Frosted’ yet! Daub’s Frosted has to be one of the most colorful and gorgeous ground cover junipers on the planet. Golden yellow foliage mixed with blue-green frosted undersides that almost appear to be airbrushed on. Daub’s Frosted redefines what a colorful yet durable juniper should be. This one has been staked from a young age to give a layered look where the branches cascade back to the ground showing off its multicolored look. Drought, heat and sun tolerant? Yes, yes and yes!!! This plant can withstand the reflective heat of pavement and concrete driveways like it’s nobody’s business. Try one or three in the hottest, sunniest, driest part of your garden and watch it thrive.
Juniperus x media ‘Daub’s Frosted’
I hope you will consider one or all of these beauties for your own. After all, wouldn’t you rather be sipping on a cold margarita by the pool or throwing the football with the kids rather than slaving in the garden and watering on these hot August days. I know I would.
