Variety Notebook

Veronica orchidea Blue Fingers
The little-known European Veronica orchidea is an endangered species in Austria and was once considered a subspecies of the popular Veronica spicata. Jelitto began observing this Veronica in 1996, but it took many years to realize the full potential of Blue Fingers. The species features wide, glossy green leaves that produce thick clumps. Sturdy flowering spikes have lovely blooms with slightly twisting petals of brilliant medium blue. Blue Fingers is first-year flowering from seed.

For more: Jellito, www.jellito.com

Goldcrest digitalis
Goldcrest digitalis is a great addition to growers’ perennial programs for those late-season sales. This peachy-yellow beauty will flower in the summer and continue through the fall. Goldcrest is sterile so it will not set seed, allowing for a longer bloom time. It forms a low rosette of dark green leaves, bearing taller stems that hold spikes of dangling bells. Blooms are a peachy-yellow tone, marked with maroon-red spots. The plants are well-branched, with very strong, upright stems, ensuring a succession of blossoms over a long period.

For more: Pacific Plug & Liner, www.ppandl.net

Salvia nemorosa Ave Maria
This new salvia has purple stems and deep pink flowers followed by purple seed heads.In May, the plants bloom with pink spikes on purple stems, and in late summer/early fall plants can rebloom. These clumping plants prefer a well-drained soil in full sun. The hardiness is zones three to nine, and this plant can be planted in spring, summer or fall. This new salvia combines nicely with other salvias like Caradonna as well as short ornamental grasses.

For more: Intrinsic Perennial Gardens, www.intrinsiceperennialgardens.com

Insider Info
Salvia nemorosa is native to much of Central Europe and Western Asia.