Variety Notebook

Heucherella ‘Gold Cascade’
This rust-resistant heucherella from Terra Nova Nurseries is a trailing variety that features small, scallop-shaped foliage. ‘Gold Cascade’ makes a low spreader as a groundcover or a very graceful spiller in a container. The gold colored foliage along with dramatic central markings add a sophisticated touch to any mixed container or garden bed. In mid-spring, short spikes of light coral flowers grace this plant for several weeks. This perennial grows up to 8 inches high and 24 inches wide. It’s hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9.

For more: Terra Nova Nurseries, www.terranovanurseries.com

Calathea crocata
Calathea plants have rich green and deep purple variegated leaves. Underneath, the foliage provides lavish color of deep purple to showcase the vibrant orange blooms. These flowering shoots last up to eight weeks when proper care is provided. Calathea plants prefer temperatures of 65°-72°F, indirect, bright light and moderately moist soil. After two to three months, the plant will finish flowering.

For more: Northland Floral, www.northlandfloral.com

Begonia Silhouette Lemon Rose
Begonia Silhouette Lemon Rose is a striking begonia hybrid with phenomenal basal and lateral branching. Plant sterility gives maximum continual flowering throughout the season with double the bloom number of a traditional non-stop begonia. Dark mahogany foliage with contrasting emerald green veining provide a dramatic contrast to the soft lemon yellow 1½- to 2-inch diameter blooms that blush apple blossom pink in high light. It’s ideal for mixed pots and containers, hanging baskets or the summer border.

For more: Plant Haven, www.planthaven.com

Caladium Rio Red
Rio Red’s color is reminiscent of a watermelon during a summer picnic. This new strap leaf selection is the deepest red of any caladium variety, and it makes beautiful rivers of red in the landscape. The red is complemented by its black petioles. Rio Red is suitable for pot sizes 4 inches and up, and it’s also good in baskets and combination planters. De-eying improves habit in smaller pots. Rio Red is sun tolerant.

For more: Abbott-IPCO, www.abbott-ipco.com

Insider Info
After flowering, consumers can place Calathea in a cold, dark and dry place in their homes. It will then grow new shoots, and after about nine months will flower again.