BONUS - December Plants of the Month

Yuletide Camellia

The end of the year is filled with celebration but there is little to celebrate out in the garden.  Plants are either dormant or dead.  Very little is going on in the garden; however, the Yuletide Camellia is the one bright spot.

Additional information about Yuletide Camellia:

• Large evergreen shrub or small tree.
• Grows to about 7' - 8' Tall and 5' - 6' wide.
• Grows in partial shade or morning sun.
• Prefers acidic soils.
• Grows to zone 7.
• Fragrant bright red flowers.
• Many different varieties with single and double blooms in several different colors
• Blooms in late fall or early winter.
• Has glossy bright green leaves.
• Fertilize in early spring, early summer and early fall.
• Trim early spring after blooms have faded.
• Keep roots cool with 2" of mulch.

This is a wonderful evergreen plant that makes a great hedge or specimen tree. It is also low maintenance.  But the most rewarding thing about this plant is that when everything outside is cold and dismal, Yuletide Camellia's bright red blooms will bring great color to your garden and will always lift your spirit and brighten your day!

Santa Clause Dahlia

Christmas in July?  Yes,  it's possible with this spectacular Santa Claus Dahlia! The enormous and colorful blooms are show stoppers that will demand attention in any garden.

Additional information about the Santa Clause Dahlia:

• Red and white blooms are 6"- 8" across.  Referred to as the dinner plate series.
• Blooms summer to first frost.
• Perennial in zones 8-10. Elsewhere, you  can dig up and store in a protected frost free location.
• Grows to about 4' - 5' tall.  May need to stake plants.
• Needs about 6 to 8 hours a day of full sun.  Will also grow with some afternoon shade.
• Plant after all danger of spring frost has past.  Ground temperatures should be above 60 degrees.
• Fast Growing.
• Thrives in rich will drained soils.
• Hundreds of varieties with blooms in all sizes and colors.
• Works well as a cut flower.
• Use in your garden as mass plantings or use only one as a specimen plant.
• Grows well in containers.
• Attracts Hummingbirds.
• Deer resistant.

Santa Clause Dahlias are a fun and interesting plant to add to your garden.  However, they do not just grow anywhere, so check with your local garden centers for the best results.  If they do not grow in your area, then try them in a container.  What a great way to celebrate Christmas in July!

Lanai Candy Cane Verbena

Lanai Candy Cane Verbena is new as of 2013. This Verbena brings fun, candy striped color to your garden.  And if you think it looks good enough to eat, then you're in luck as the blossoms are edible.

More information about Candy Cane Verbena:

• Hardy to zone 9 or use as an annual.
• Grows to about 10" tall and 24" wide.
• Plant has a spreading growth habit.
• Heat and drought tolerant.  Blooms best with consistent water and well drained soils.
• Grows in most soils.
• Resistant to powdery mildew.
• Blooms are clusters of small red and white striped flowers.
• Blooms spring to fall.
• Attracts Hummingbirds and butterflies.
• Deadhead spent flowers for continuous blooms.
• Prefers full sun but will handle afternoon shade.
• Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Use in your landscape or great in hanging baskets or containers.

For an easy, fun to grow annual with very showy flowers try the new Lanai Candy Cane Verbena in your garden.  Remember, if you wish to use in a yummy summer salad the blooms are edible.