Got a couple picks this week that I have been very impressed with the look, hardiness, and ability to bring in those pollinators.Both are ‘annuals’ (one on the hardiness borderline here), very similar in growth and flowering habit, and one will be the 2023 Annual of the year! (Which is interesting as it has been my personal pick introducing new annuals to gardeners in our area thru our garden talks!)
Verbena bonariensis – or commonly known as Verbena on a stick Taller, airy tender perennial (for our zone – but does reseed), with brightly colored lavender / deep lilac clusters of flowers held high on their wiry stems. All summer bloomer, great for cutting, great in containers in ground, pollinator favorite, 3’ tall / 2’ wide (wiry), loves the sun. Deadhead / cut back a bit to help encourage even more flowers. Great wispy wiry moving show!
Gomphrena ‘Truffula – or commonly know as Globe Amaranth ‘Truffula’ Taller, airy, annual with brightly colored clusters of hot pink flowers held up above the foliage. All summer bloomer, great for cutting, great in ground or containers, pollinator favorite, 24-30inches tall, loves the sun, but will take light shading. No deadheading needed – older flowers age nicely!Watch for this one to be the 2023 Annual of the Year!