Ajuga - Metal. Crispa
The Ajuga ‘Metal. Crispa’, Ajuga pyramidalis, is a useful ground cover with short spikes of cobalt blue flowers. ‘Metal. Crispa’ has very tight, crisp-leafed crinkled purple foliage, almost prune-like, with a green-brown shine. The flowers appear in early spring on 8” spikes with a plant spread of 12-24”. ‘Metal. Crispa’ is excellent for shady moist areas but will adapt to a little more sun than most Ajuga. (The foliage colors will be more vivid with morning sun. ) It prefers moist soil with a good drainage but will tolerate moderately dry areas. Do avoid soggy conditions. Metal. Crispas are best grown in a rocky area or with other smaller plants (so that it does not get overwhelmed), under trees or in poor soils. ‘Metal. Crispa’ can be aggressive so don't place it near lawns without proper edging to prevent spread, or in borders where spreading is not desired. Butterflies and hummingbirds are defiantly attracted to Ajuga, not to mention being deer resistant and a low allergen. If one is looking for a perennial ground cover to exceed in a hard to grow shady area, Ajuga's are the way to go. ... additional information
Gaura - Karalee Petite Pink The Gaura Karalee Petite Pink, 'Gaura hybrids', a Proven Winners selection, has numerous butterfly-shaped prolific pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. ‘Karalee Petite Pink’ is one of the dwarf forms in its family. The green foliage makes a great contrast with its flower color. With a plant height of 10-14” and a width of 24-36”, it is definite addition to any perennial garden. ‘Karalee Petite Pink’ Gaura requires full sun in a well-drained area with average to rich soil and is very drought tolerant. A major attraction to butterflies, it continues to bloom through the first hard frosts of autumn into winter. ‘Karalee Petite Pink’ looks great on a rocky ledge, near bricks and stones, near Sedum 'Autumn Joy' or small dahlias. It's also enchanting with pink bush roses and as a contrast to plants with big fleshy leaves.
