Someone's Grandma (bless her heart)
Grandma flowers, you know 'em when you see them. My first thought would be those red and white pinwheel petunias. Maybe a row of stiff-stemmed gladiolas. But for many it's the moss rose.
Add one of those "fanny granny" yard art things and you know what I mean. I'm allowed to make fun since I know my neighbors probably recognize me from the behind before the front.
It turns out grandma was one pretty smart lady. She didn't have a lot of time for fussy flowers.
Today that same quality translates to 'green'.
I go on and on so much about tall annuals and perennials, some might accuse me of being "height-ist", but I'm not. Portulaca is a ground hugging plant with plenty of potential.
Portulaca, Pazazz "Salmon Glow" A big favorite during the tour. The Garden Buzz
With its fat fleshy leaves and bright flowers, it's almost a succulent with low water requirements, but with faster growth that makes it useful and decorative in a number of ways.
I've found it to be a versatile container plant with loads of style. The new Pazazz series has completely charmed me with the waxy single blooms in beautiful colors like "Salmon Glow". Last year I was enamored of a variety called "Neon Rose", a hot fuchsia with a yellow flare. Butterflies love them too.
Put portulaca in terra cotta containers, it loves the heat and well-drained situation, while throwing off a Tuscany vibe. I like to use it on my hot and often-windy deck mixed with million bells, coleus and grasses for a combination that can handle the strong breeze without wilting.
Portulaca "Neon Rose" The Garden Buzz
Lastly, portulaca can become a living mulch, either in summer beds or pots, keeping out stray weeds and conserving moisture while looking fabulous.
Lookin' good, Grandma.
(blogtown.portlandmercury.com)
