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I’m hearing a lot of grumbling over how awful our gardens are looking. I share your grumblings. So I thought I’d go on patrol for things that aren’t entirely terrible.

Have you noticed how a tight shot shows what you might otherwise have missed? I wholeheartedly advise against looking at the big picture. Especially this time of year.

This combination makes me happy, Canna musafolia, Eucomis ‘Sparkling Burgundy’, and Euphorbia ‘Fen’s Ruby’. Pay no attention to the surrounding Blackberries and Japanese Knotweed.

Eucomis 'Sparkling Burgundy' with Euphorbia 'Fen's Ruby' at its feet.
Eucomis ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ with Euphorbia ‘Fen’s Ruby’ at its feet.

The bloom on Eucomis comosa ‘Sparkling Burgundy’ seems miraculous. Also know as Pineapple Lily, and it’s easy to see why.

Euphorbia ‘Fen’s Ruby’ gets a little full of itself, but so billowy and healthy, easy to put up with. And if it really gets to be too much, just give it a yank. Watch for skin irritating sap, and definitely don’t stick your finger in your eye.

Euphorbia 'Fen's Ruby' aka Spurge can be a tad rampaging, but still so soft and billowy looking.
Euphorbia ‘Fen’s Ruby’ aka Spurge can rampage a tad, but still so soft and billowy.

Okay, here’s a little bit bigger picture. But just to give you the marriage of texture and foliage.

Canna musafolia 'Rubra'
Canna musafolia ‘Rubra’

My love affair with Cannas is still on the rise. They’re pretty good, don’t you think?

Canna 'Intrigue' in the Sea of Juniper Garden
Canna ‘Intrigue’ in the Sea of Juniper Garden

The sedums and sempervivums are looking good. But don’t kid yourself; they’re better with water–especially this year. As with most years.

Sedum Mix from Little Prince of Oregon
Sedum Mix from Little Prince of Oregon

Plants gifts from friends are always a superb addition.

Arundo donax, a recent gift from Danger Garden, looking good.
Arundo donax, a gift from Danger Garden, looking good.

And if all else fails, go buy some more plants. It’ll give you the incentive to get out there and keep at it.

a flat full of new plants
a flat full of new plants
here's to you
to you and yours

Cheers