Holden Plants

Propagated and grown by Holden's nursery staff

Below is the list of plants we expect to be available during the Artisans at the Arboretum featuring Holden Plants event on May 18 & 19.

Small native tree with green bark and white stripes.
The green foliage turns brilliant golden yellow in fall.
Prefers partial shade to shade and humus-rich,
moist, well-drained soil. Not tolerant of poor soils or
drought. Useful for naturalizing in a woodland
garden. Ohio native.

TYPE: Tree
HEIGHT: 15-25 ft
SPREAD: 15-20 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Light green

Allium ‘Millenium’ is a charming perennial known for
its globe-shaped clusters of purple flowers that
bloom in late summer, attracting pollinators with its
nectar-rich blossoms. With its upright growth habit
and slender, grass-like foliage, ‘Millenium’ thrives in
sunny to partially shaded locations with well-drained
soil, making it a standout choice for borders, rock
gardens, or cottage gardens. Low-maintenance and
deer-resistant, this elegant plant adds both beauty
and architectural interest to any landscape.


TYPE: perennial
HEIGHT: 15-20 in
SPREAD: 10-15 in
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Purple

This is a strong growing plant that needs room to
move. White single flowers bloom from mid spring to
early summer. This competitive plant is great for
naturalizing a large area and will brighten up
woodland edges and shady corners of the garden.
Attractive to pollinators, host to several native
moths. Propagated from seed collected in Holden’s
Wildflower Garden.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: White to light pink

Snowdrop windflower is a perennial plant flowering
in spring, native to meadows and dry deciduous
woodlands of central and western Europe and
temperate Asia. It forms spreading patches White,
cheerful spring flowers with a pleasant aroma.


TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-1.5 ft
SPREAD: 9-12 in
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: White

Like hardy passionflower, the aboveground portions
of this vine die back in winter. New sprouts emerge
the following spring from belowground tubers. These
tubers are edible once cooked. Tight clusters of
unusual pink blooms are borne above wisteria-like
foliage in late summer. Hosts the silver-spotted
skipper.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Vine
HEIGHT: 8-16 ft
SPREAD: vine
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to moist
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

Deep tubular flowers? Red corollas with yellow
throats? This can only mean one thing. Our native
red columbine is hummingbird pollinated! A hardy,
attractive perennial, and quite distinct from other
columbines.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-3 ft
SPREAD: 1-1.5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Red with yellow

Aquilegia canadensis ‘Corbett’ is a delightful cultivar
of the native wild colombine, prized for its yellow
flowers and compact growth habit. Blooming in late
spring to early summer, this charming perennial
attracts hummingbirds with its nectar-rich blossoms
and thrives in partial shade and moist, well-drained
soil. With its graceful nodding flowers and fern-like
foliage, ‘Corbett’ adds a touch of elegance to shaded
gardens, woodland borders, or naturalized areas,
providing habitat for pollinators while adding color
and charm to any landscape.


Ohio Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-1.5 ft
SPREAD: 9-12 in
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Light yellow

This species is an herbaceous member of an
otherwise mostly shrubby genus. It appears shrub like in form and size, with a relatively coarse texture,
but dies back to the ground completely in winter.
Flowers are attractive to a variety of pollinators, and
the fruit is excellent bird forage.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-5 ft
SPREAD: 3-5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: White

Arisaema dracontium is similar to Jack-in-the pulpit,
except green dragon usually has only one large,
compound leaf divided into 7-15 lance-shaped
leaflets. In addition, the spadix is green and lacks
the distinctive purple striping of Jack. Green dragon
goes dormant in the summer, with the mature plants
producing large red berries visible in mid to late
summer. Fruit eaten by several groups of animals,
including birds, rodents, and box turtles. Roots
contain calcium oxalate and are poisonous in an
uncooked state. Propagated from seed collected
west of Blueberry Pond.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2 ft
SPREAD: 1-1.5 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Green

Instead of the normal petal arrangement seen in
most flowering plants, the flowers of this family have
an unusual form. The “jack” (spadix) is a 2-to-3-inch
erect club which sits inside a green or purplish hood,
the “pulpit” (spathe). The base of the green club is
lined with tiny male or female flowers that are
protected by the hood. Only female flowering plants
produce fruit, a cluster of shiny green berries that
turn red in fall. Fruit eaten by several groups of
animals, including birds, rodents, and box turtles.
Propagated from seed collected in Holden’s natural
areas.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-3 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Green

This US native vine comes from an unusual family of
plants including wild ginger. The vine does not seem
to voraciously consume fences and garages like
Wisteria, though it will ramble. The heart-shaped
leaves are pleasing to look at, and the unusuallyshaped flowers are a real conversation-starter.
Preferred host plant for the pipevine swallowtail.


US Native
TYPE: Vine
HEIGHT: 15-30 ft
SPREAD: vine
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: Light yellow with burgundy

Swamp milkweed is easily grown in medium to wet
soils in full sun but is also tolerant of average welldrained soils in cultivation. Pink/mauve-flowers
appear in summer. Milkweeds have deep taproots
and are best left undisturbed once established.
Foliage is slow to emerge in spring. The flowers are
attractive to butterflies as a nectar source and the
leaves are a food source for the larval stage of
Monarch butterflies. Ohio native propagated from
seed collected in the Arboretum gardens.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-4 ft
SPREAD: 3-4 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Pink/mauve

Lady fern is a graceful fern prized for its elegant
fronds and arching growth habit. With its finely
divided, lance-shaped fronds and vibrant green
color, ‘Victoriae’ adds texture and movement to
shaded gardens or woodland areas. Thriving in moist,
well-drained soil and partial to full shade, this lowmaintenance fern is perfect for adding a touch of
natural beauty to shady borders, woodland gardens,
or rockeries.


TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1.5-2ft
SPREAD: 1.5-2 ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: N/A
BLOOM COLOR: N/A

Japanese painted fern ‘Regal Red’, is a stunning fern
prized for its striking foliage and colorful accents.
With its arching fronds and metallic silver-gray color,
‘Regal Red’ provides a dramatic contrast to the
garden. In addition to its silver-gray hue, the fronds
feature striking burgundy-red highlights along the
midribs, adding a splash of color to shaded gardens
or woodland areas. Thriving in moist, well-drained
soil and partial to full shade, this low-maintenance
fern is perfect for adding texture and interest to
shady borders, woodland gardens, or rockeries.


TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-1.5 ft
SPREAD: 1.5-2 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Moist
BLOOM TIME: N/A
BLOOM COLOR: N/A

The perennial features bluish purple, pea-like
flowers which appear in late spring. The flowers
appear to sit atop a mound of bluish green foliage. It
is easily grown in average, dry to medium, welldrained soil in full sun and is exceptionally drought
tolerant once established. Blue false indigo develops
a large taproot and is best left undisturbed.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-3 ft
SPREAD: 3-4 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Purple

Although there is a yellow-flowering Baptisia native
to Ohio, its floral display is decidedly less-thanspectacular. This species is found in the southcentral US, and has bountiful golden blooms. They
are held tightly-clustered on erect inflorescences
above clean green foliage. Larval host to several
butterflies and moths; flowers support variety of
native pollinators.


US Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-3 ft
SPREAD: 2-3 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

Summer squill, is a charming bulbous perennial
prized for its elegant spikes of pink flowers that
bloom in late summer. Native to Asia, this woodland
plant adds a touch of elegance to shaded gardens or
naturalized areas. With its low-growing habit and
grass-like foliage, summer squill forms an attractive
ground cover in moist, well-drained soil, attracting
bees and butterflies while interest in the garden.


TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 10-15 in
SPREAD:
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

Paper Birch is a graceful deciduous tree prized for its
striking white bark and delicate foliage. With its
slender, pyramidal shape and pendulous branches,
Paper Birch adds vertical interest to the landscape.
In addition to its distinctive bark, the tree features
serrated, diamond-shaped leaves that turn vibrant
yellow in the fall, providing a stunning display of
color. Thriving in full sun to partial shade and moist,
well-drained soil, Paper Birch is perfect for adding
beauty and structure to parks, estates, or large
gardens. Several native species of insects depend
on this tree as a host plant.


Ohio Native, P4T Large Tree
TYPE: Tree
HEIGHT: 50-70 ft
SPREAD: 25-50 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Green and brown, insignificant

Hardy orchid is a charming terrestrial orchid prized
for its delicate pink, purple, flowers that bloom in
late spring to early summer. Native to East Asia, this
herbaceous perennial adds a touch of elegance to
shaded gardens or woodland areas. With its low-growing habit and grass-like foliage, hardy orchid
forms an attractive ground cover in moist, well-drained soil providing early-season interest in the
garden.


TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-1.5 ft
SPREAD: 6-12 in
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

Bears dainty daisy-like flowers atop strappy green
foliage. While flower color ranges from white to
purple in the wild, this seedlot bears blooms of pink.
Supports a wide variety of native pollinators.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-5 ft
SPREAD: 3-5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late summer to early fall
BLOOM COLOR: White to pink

Purple poppy mallow is a delightful perennial prized
for its cup-shaped magenta flowers that bloom in
late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators
with its nectar-rich blossoms. With its sprawling
growth habit and deeply lobed foliage, it forms a
colorful ground cover in sunny, well-drained
locations, making it a standout choice for rock
gardens, borders, or cottage gardens. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, this charming plant
adds both beauty and ecological value to any
landscape.


US Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 6-12 in
SPREAD: 6-36 in
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: Magenta

Sweetshrub is a deciduous shrub prized for its
fragrant, maroon-brown flowers that bloom in late
spring to early summer. With its compact growth
habit and glossy green foliage, sweetshrub adds
beauty and fragrance to the garden. Thriving in partial
shade to full sun and moist, well-drained soil, this
versatile shrub is perfect for borders, woodland
gardens, or naturalized areas, attracting butterflies
and hummingbirds while providing early-season
interest in the landscape.


US Native
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 6 ft
SPREAD: 8 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: Maroon

Bristleleaf sedge is a charming perennial grass prized
for its fine-textured foliage and graceful arching
habit. With its tufted growth habit and ivory-white
flowers, bristleleaf sedge adds elegance and texture
to shaded gardens or woodland areas. Thriving in
moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade, this
low-maintenance grass is perfect for adding a touch
of natural beauty to shady borders, woodland
gardens, or rockeries. Flowers are followed later on
by jet-black shiny seeds. Sedges act as host plants
to several native insects. One of our propagator’s
favorite sedges.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 7.5 in
SPREAD: 6-12 in
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Light yellow

Blue wood sedge, is a versatile perennial prized for
its striking blue-green foliage and graceful arching
habit. With its tufted growth habit and slender,
pendulous seed heads, blue wood sedge adds
texture and movement to shaded gardens or
woodland areas. Thriving in moist, well-drained soil
and partial to full shade, this low-maintenance plant
is perfect for adding a touch of natural beauty to
shady borders, woodland gardens, or rockeries.
Sedges act as host plants to several native insects.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 6-12 in
SPREAD: 6-12 in
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: Light green

Sedges of the genus Carex are the most speciose
group of plants native to Ohio, and with that quantity
comes a diversity of forms and habitats. This sedge
is so-named palm sedge for its upright growth with
tufted leaves at the top of the stem, appearing
maybe not truly palm-like, but certainly tropical.
Photos do not do this species justice.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-3 ft
SPREAD: 2-3 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow, insignificant

This sedge, unlike many others, is instantly
recognizable. The wide leaves lay flat on the forest
floor, and bear a silvery-blue sheen. This plant will
form loose drifts over time. For woodland gardens,
there is nothing quite like this sedge.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 8-12 in
SPREAD: 1 ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Light yellow

Shellbark Hickory is the largest of the true hickories.
The shellbark hickory’s nut is larger than shagbark
hickory and is sweet and edible. Bark is similar to
shagbark hickory on mature trees. Found on moist
fertile soils of floodplains and bottomlands. Native to
Ohio. Fast grower. No pollinator needed, produces
male and female flowers. Host plant for regal moth
larvae.


Ohio Native, P4T Large Tree
TYPE: Tree
HEIGHT: 60-80 ft
SPREAD: 60-70 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: N/A
BLOOM COLOR: Insignificant

Northern Sea Oats is a graceful grass prized for its
flat ornamental seed heads that look like oats. With
its bamboo-like stems and drooping seed heads,
Northern Sea Oats adds texture and movement to
shaded gardens or woodland areas. Thriving in moist,
well-drained soil and full sun to part shade, this lowmaintenance grass is perfect for adding a touch of
natural beauty to shady borders, woodland gardens,
or rain gardens. Native grasses are important host
plants for native insects, even though the blooms
don’t provide any nectar or pollen to pollinators.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-5 ft
SPREAD: 1-2.5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Late summer to early fall
BLOOM COLOR: Green

In summer, this Appalachian native produces long,
pendent spikes of white flowers. The flowers smell
fantastic, and are a favorite of native pollinators of all
shapes and sizes. The foliage can host several
species of butterfly and moth.


US Native
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 20 ft
SPREAD: 6 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to moist
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: White

Though not a true basil of the genus Ocimum, this
native member of the mint family is still pleasantly
aromatic and can be used in cooking. An opportunist
of mown and disturbed ground. This species will not
spread aggressively like other mints.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2 ft
SPREAD: 6-12 in
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

Although there are many other broad-leaved
monocots with white flowers and fleshy fruits native
to eastern woodlands, they all have their own
charms, and this species is no exception.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2 ft
SPREAD: 6-12 in
LIGHT: Full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to moist
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: White

Not only is this species among the most beautiful of
Ohio’s dogwoods, it also performs many important
ecological functions. The wide, flat flower clusters
are very attractive to native pollinators, and the
metallic-blue fruit is eaten by birds as they migrate
south for the winter, among other animals such as
raccoons and turkeys. The thicket-forming habit is
useful along streams and in wetlands to stabilize
banks and reduce erosion. To top it all off, the foliage
supports the caterpillars of azure butterflies.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 6-12 ft
SPREAD: 6-12 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to summer
BLOOM COLOR: White

This native dogwood is often overlooked. It does
have reddish stems, but these are not nearly as
flashy as those seen on other dogwoods. However,
this species has red pedicels and white fruit, and the
contrast between them is interesting to look at,
somewhat like Actaea pachypoda. The leaves
usually turn a rich purple in fall, which complements
the fruit color nicely. The shrubs themselves are very
hardy, tolerating mowing and competition from
perennials. The fruit is high in fat, and is produced
late in the season: an excellent food source for
migratory songbirds.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 10-15 ft
SPREAD: 10-15 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: White flowers

Japanese cedar ‘Yoshino’, is a graceful evergreen
tree prized for its pyramidal shape and feathery
foliage. With its aromatic scent and compact growth
habit, ‘Yoshino’ adds beauty and structure to the
landscape. Thriving in full sun and moist, welldrained soil, Japanese cedar ‘Yoshino’ is perfect for
adding year-round interest to parks, estates, or large
gardens.


P4T Medium Tree
TYPE: Tree
HEIGHT: 30-40 ft
SPREAD: 20-30ft
LIGHT: full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: medium
BLOOM TIME: N/A
BLOOM COLOR: N/A

Woodvamp, also commonly known as climbing
hydrangea, is a charming woody vine prized for its
lush green foliage and fragrant white flowers that
bloom in late spring to early summer. With its
climbing habit, climbing hydrangea adds vertical
interest to walls, fences, or arbors. Thriving in partial
to full shade and moist, well-drained soil, this
versatile vine is perfect for adding beauty and
fragrance to shaded gardens or woodland areas.
Flowers attract native pollinators.


US Native
TYPE: Vine
HEIGHT: 15-30 ft
SPREAD: 1-3 ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: White

The breakout star of North American prairies. Parent
to about a million cultivars of every shape, size, and
color imaginable, but nothing quite beats the classic.
An excellent host for herbivorous insects, native
pollinators, and seed-eating birds.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-5 ft
SPREAD: 1.5-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Magenta

Bonesets are almost entirely deer-proof. Even in a
neighborhood where deer will eat bee-balm to the
ground, bonesets remain untouched. This allows
them to flower profusely anywhere there is sufficient
soil moisture. The flowers are like joyous white fluffy
clumps, have a pleasant smell, and are extremely
attractive to native pollinators. When the plants are
not in flower, the fuzzy, oppositely-arranged foliage
adds a pleasing texture to the garden. Hosts several
species of butterfly and moth.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 4-6 ft
SPREAD: 3-4 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer to fall
BLOOM COLOR: White

In late summer, Joe-Pye weeds produce large ballshaped inflorescences composed of hundreds of
pink flowers. Like their close cousins, the bonesets,
Joe-Pye weed flowers are excellent sources of
sustenance for butterflies, bees, and other native
pollinators. Before blooms emerge, their burgundy
stems contrast nicely with the foliage, and bring a
coarse (yet manageable) texture to gardens and
natural areas alike. Hosts several species of
butterfly and moth.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 4-7 ft
SPREAD: 2-4 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

Unusual among geums as a prairie resident. Bears
distinctive nodding pinkish flowers and long, feathery
styles. Leaves have wonderful texture. Can spread
rhizomatously.


US Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 6-18 in
SPREAD: 6-12 in
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to summer
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

Gingko biloba ‘Shangri-la’ is a graceful deciduous
tree prized for its unique fan-shaped leaves and
golden-yellow autumn color. With its pyramidal
shape and upright growth habit, ‘Shangri-la’ adds
beauty and structure to the landscape. Thriving in full
sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, Gingko
‘Shangri-la’ is perfect for adding year-round interest
to parks, estates, or large gardens.


P4T Medium Tree
TYPE: Tree
HEIGHT: 40-55 ft
SPREAD: 25-30ft
LIGHT: full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Green, insignificant

Oxeye ‘Bleeding Hearts’ is a charming perennial
prized for its cheerful yellow flowers and extended
blooming period. With its upright growth habit and
lance-shaped foliage, ‘Bleeding Hearts’ adds color
and texture to sunny borders or cottage gardens.
Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, this lowmaintenance plant adds beauty and wildlife appeal
to any landscape.
Ohio Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-4 ft
SPREAD: 1.5-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer to fall
BLOOM COLOR: Orange

False-sunflowers are so similar to their namesakes
that they were once considered true sunflowers.
Floral characteristics have since excluded them from
that group, but false sunflowers can still be used to
extend the sunflower blooming season earlier.
‘Burning Hearts’ is an interesting twist on the typical
sunflower appearance, with scarlet centers to the
otherwise-yellow blooms. Like other sunflowers, the
seeds of this impostor provide nutritious forage to
migrating birds.


Ohio Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-4 ft
SPREAD: 1.5-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer to fall
BLOOM COLOR: yellow with scarlet

Coral Bells ‘Zipper’ is a charming perennial prized for
its colorful foliage and compact growth habit. With
its ruffled leaves ‘Zipper’ adds texture and interest to
shaded gardens or woodland areas. Thriving in
partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil,
Coral Bells ‘Zipper’ is perfect for adding a touch of
color to shady borders, woodland gardens, or
containers.


US Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 8 in
SPREAD: 1 ft
LIGHT: part sun to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: White

Heartleaf is a delightful perennial prized for its heartshaped leaves and unique maroon flowers that
bloom in early spring. With its spreading habit and
low-growing foliage, it forms an attractive ground
cover in moist, well-drained soil and partial to full
shade, making it a standout choice for woodland
gardens or naturalized areas. Drought-tolerant and
deer-resistant, this charming plant adds both beauty
and ecological value to any landscape. This
particular species of heartleaf is known in the wild
from only four counties in Alabama, and is very
difficult to find in the trade. It bears arguably the
most striking flowers of any plant in this genus.


US Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 6-12 in
SPREAD: 12-15 in
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Magenta with white

Smooth hydrangea is a charming deciduous shrub
prized for its large clusters of white flowers that
bloom in mid to late summer. With its rounded
growth habit and lush green foliage, smooth
hydrangea adds beauty and fragrance to the garden.
Thriving in partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil, this versatile shrub is perfect for
borders, woodland gardens, or naturalized areas,
attracting copious bees and butterflies while
providing mid-summer interest in the landscape.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 3-5 ft
SPREAD: 3-5 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer to early fall
BLOOM COLOR: White

Bigleaf hydrangea ‘Nigra’ is a stunning deciduous
shrub prized for its large mophead blooms and dark
purple-black stems. With its rounded growth habit
and glossy green foliage, ‘Nigra’ adds drama and
elegance to the garden. Thriving in partial shade and
moist, well-drained soil, this versatile shrub is
perfect for borders, woodland gardens, or
containers, providing mid-summer interest in the
landscape.

TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 4-6 ft
SPREAD: 4-6 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Pink or Lavender

This species is quite distinct from other hydrangeas.
Large, lobed leaves look lush in the growing season,
and offer a nice burgundy color in the fall. The
pyramidal panicles have enough large, sterile flowers
to please the human eye, but still plenty of small,
nectariferous florets to please the bees. Native
hydrangeas can host hundreds of species of native
pollinators.


US Native
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 6-8 ft
SPREAD: 6-8 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to summer
BLOOM COLOR: White

TYPE: shrub
HEIGHT: 3-5 ft
SPREAD: 2-4 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: summer
BLOOM COLOR:

Best grown in organically rich, well-drained soils in part shade with medium moisture. Will tolerate close to full shade. If grown in full sun, the soil must be kept consistently moist. When planting, rhiozome should site on top of the soil and the roots should be tucked into the soil. Well sited plants will quickly naturalize by branching rhizomes. Ohio Native Cultivar TYPE: Perennial HEIGHT: <1 ft SPREAD: 2 ft LIGHT: Part shade to full shade SOIL MOISTURE: Medium BLOOM TIME: Spring BLOOM COLOR: White with gold crested falls

The POCO series of red hot pokers were bred to
eliminate the common problems of this South
African genus of plants. Across the board, they are
compact with a long flowering season. Kniphofias
evolved to utilize sunbirds as pollinators; sunbirds
are old-world analogues for hummingbirds. As such,
the long, tubular flowers are excellent nectar sources
for our native ruby-throated hummingbird. POCO
Red was selected for its striking red blossoms.


TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 14-20 in
SPREAD: 14 in
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Red

Gayfeather has a tall, unbranched habit with a nice
architectural form. The stems are covered in long,
narrow leaves and are topped with a spike of purple
flowers. The flowers bloom from top downward.
Liatris prefers moist humus-rich sandy soils, but
adapts to average garden soils.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-5 ft
SPREAD: 2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Mid to late summer
BLOOM COLOR: Purple

The flowers of this species are large orange-red
trumpets that hang facing downward. There are one
to five flowers at the top of the plant with petals that
curve backward, but not as far as its close relative,
Turk’s-cap lily. The large, brilliant flowers of this lily
attract many pollinators such as Speyeria cybele,
great spangled fritillary and various swallowtail
butterflies. Ruby-throated hummingbirds also visit
the flowers. Warning: These plants are highly
attractive to deer! Propagated from seed collected in
Holden’s natural areas.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-5 ft
SPREAD: 12-15 in
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Moist to wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Orange-red

Easily grown in average, medium to wet, well-drained soils in full sun to part/filtered sun. Best in consistently moist, humusy soils. Soils should not be allowed to dry out. Mulch helps keep root zone cool. Plant bulbs 5-6″ deep in fall. Bulbs are stoloniferous, and plants often spread to form impressive colonies in the wild. Pollinated by butterflies and hummingbirds.

Ohio Native

TYPE: Perennial

HEIGHT: 4-7 ft

SPREAD: <1 ft

LIGHT: Full sun to part shade

SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet

BLOOM TIME: Summer

BLOOM COLOR: Orange, spotted maroon

Vigorous grower with vibrant orange-red flowers from
late May until frost. More resistant to aphids than
other varieties and highly attractive to Hummingbirds


US Native
TYPE: Vine
HEIGHT: 10-20 ft
SPREAD: vine
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Red

Major Wheeler’ prefers average, well-drained soil in
full sun to part shade but will flower more prolifically
in full sun. It is tolerant of drought and dry soils once
established. This species blooms on previous year’s
growth and new growth, so you can trim it back or
leave it be. The sweetly scented tubular red flowers
of this native honeysuckle often attract
hummingbirds to the garden throughout the summer.
The flowers are followed by bright red fruit and are
attractive to birds. Unlike its Japanese cousin, it is a
well-behaved member of the border. A twining vine, it
needs a trellis or fence for support.


US Native Cultivar
TYPE: Vine
HEIGHT: 10-20 ft
SPREAD: vine
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Red

The most distinctive characteristic of this plant is its
namesake cuboid fruits. These six-sided capsules
have a rustic handmade look, with a floral pattern
impressed on the top surface. Before fruiting, the
plant has pretty yellow flowers and excellent red fall
color. Pollinated by native bees.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-3 ft
SPREAD: 1-1.5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

This native magnolia bears leaves up to 2 feet long,
arranged in such a way to resemble an umbrella.
Large flowers, at least half a foot across, ripen to
vertical, knobby pink fruit. The leaves and the
flowers lend the tree a tropical feel. Like other
magnolias, this one is pollinated by beetles.


Ohio Native, P4T Small Tree
TYPE: Tree
HEIGHT: 15-30 ft
SPREAD: 15-30 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: White

Allegheny monkeyflower is one of two nearlyidentical Ohio natives in this genus. It easily
colonizes wet ground, both through seed and
stolons, making it a good choice for filling in space
around ponds and streams. The flowers are mostly
pink, with a throat ranging in color from white, to
typical yellow, to blue, purple, and sometimes
almost black. The blossoms feature a large landing
pad and somewhat collapsed throat – indicators that
this species is pollinated by large bees, about the
only insects capable of muscling their way in to
reach the pollen and nectar. Some smaller bugs
such as hoverflies can slip into the flower, and
butterflies are able to fit their tongues in as well. The
foliage hosts several species of lepidopteran.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Moist to wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer to early fall
BLOOM COLOR: Light purple

A selection of scarlet beebalm from the
Appalachians; among the best of this species.
Vigorous and floriferous, with excellent red color.
Very attractive to hummingbirds and other long-tongued pollinators. Foliage has a pleasing aroma.


Ohio Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-4 ft
SPREAD: 3 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Red

Pink evening primrose is a charming perennial prized
for its large, pink flowers that bloom in late spring to
early summer. With its spreading habit and lance-shaped foliage, pink evening primrose forms an
attractive ground cover in sunny, well-drained
locations, making it a standout choice for rock
gardens, borders, or cottage gardens. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, this delightful plant
adds both beauty and ecological value to any
landscape. Attractive to a variety of native
pollinators.


US Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 9-24 in
SPREAD: 1-1.5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to summer
BLOOM COLOR: White and pink

Opuntia humifusa, commonly known as the Eastern prickly pear, is a native cactus found in parts of eastern North America, including Ohio! The flowers are yellow to gold in color and measure 4-6 cm wide and bloom in the late spring. The juicy and edible red fruits change color from green to red as they mature and often remain on the cactus until the following spring. Like most cactus, the prickly pear prefers well drained soil in full sun. Propagated vegetatively from plants in Myrtle S. Holden Wildflower Garden. Ohio Native

TYPE: Perennial

HEIGHT: <1 ft

SPREAD: 1-1.5 ft

LIGHT: Full sun

SOIL MOISTURE: Dry

BLOOM TIME: Summer

BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

Ornamental oregano ‘Rosenkuppel’ is a delightful
herbaceous perennial prized for its aromatic foliage
and attractive pink flowers that bloom in mid to late
summer. With its spreading habit and compact
growth, ‘Rosenkuppel’ adds beauty to sunny borders
or herb gardens. Thriving in dry to well-drained soil
and full sun, ornamental oregano adds color and
texture to the garden.


TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 12-18 in
SPREAD: 12-18 in
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer to fall
BLOOM COLOR: Pink and purple

Switch grass is a versatile perennial grass prized for
its upright growth habit and graceful arching foliage.
With its slender stems and airy seed heads, it adds
texture and movement to sunny borders or meadow
gardens. This low-maintenance grass is perfect for
adding height and visual interest to the landscape,
attracting birds and has winter appeal. Native
grasses serve as important hosts for many native
insects.


TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-6 ft
SPREAD: 2-3 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

This cultivar of our native panic-grass was selected
for its excellent upright form. Like the straight
species, this plant has lovely mistlike seedheads,
and the foliage supports several species of butterfly
and moth.


Ohio Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 4-5 ft
SPREAD: 2-2.5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

This species is one of 300+ within the genus and
most are tropical; luckily, this one is native to Ohio.
Passionflower prefer sun and average garden soil.
Although they are late to emerge in the spring, this
vine usually grows to a height of 10-20 feet annually.
Because this is close to the northern-most range of
the species, harsh winters might harm the roots.
Heavy mulching in the fall is advisable.
Passionflower plants can be a food source for the
variegated fritillary butterfly, and the fruits are edible
to humans. Dies down to the ground every winter.


Ohio Native
TYPE: Vine
HEIGHT: 10-20 ft
SPREAD: vine
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Purple and white

This beardtongue is a charming perennial prized for
its tall spikes of tubular, lavender-blue flowers that
bloom in late spring to early summer attracting
pollinators, especially bees. With its upright growth
habit and lance-shaped foliage, Smooth
Beardtongue adds color and texture to sunny and
part-shade borders or rock gardens with moist well
drained soil. This low-maintenance plant is perfect
for adding beauty and wildlife appeal to any
landscape.


TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-3 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: Pink to purple

This variety of beardtongue is a striking perennial
prized for its tall spires of deep purple flowers that
bloom in late spring to early summer, attracting
pollinators with its nectar-rich blossoms. With dark
purple foliage adding contrast to the garden,
‘Blackbeard’ thrives in sunny to partially shaded
locations with well-drained soil, making it a standout
choice for borders, cottage gardens, or naturalized
areas. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, this
elegant plant adds beauty to any landscape.


Ohio Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2.5-3 ft
SPREAD: 1.5-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring to summer
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

Best grown in humusy, medium moisture, welldrained soil in full sun to part shade. Good shade tolerance. Prefers acidic, rich, organic soils with continuous, even moisture. Species self-seeds in optimum growing conditions. Spreads by stolons to form large colonies in the wild as both the common and species names suggest. Its is a fantastic groundcover and provides interest early in the season before many perennials emerge. Looks great combined with ferns, Geum, bulbs , foam flowers and spring ephemerals too! Ohio Native Cultivar

TYPE: Perennial

HEIGHT: <1 ft

SPREAD: 1 ft

LIGHT: Part shade

SOIL MOISTURE: Medium

BLOOM TIME: Spring

BLOOM COLOR: Purple

Unlike most ground-cherries for sale, this one is a
perennial native. New shoots will come up in late
spring from a deep horizontal stolon. Capable of
colonizing a small area, this plant is not able to
compete well with taller plants, and is often found on
the mown edges of fallow fields and the like. Fruit
are edible once fully ripe, tasting primarily of
pineapple, and are arguably better than the
commoner cultivated species of this genus. Nodding
flowers hidden below the leaves are pollinated by
bumblebees. Foliage hosts a variety of insects;
much more tolerant of potato beetles than Japanese
lantern (Physalis alkekengi).

Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow with purple

Jacob’s Ladder is a delicate perennial known for its
clusters of sky-blue flowers and finely divided
foliage. Native to North America, this woodland plant
blooms in late spring to early summer, adding a
splash of color to shaded gardens or woodland
borders. With its spreading habit and moderate
growth rate, Jacob’s Ladder forms an attractive
ground cover in moist, well-drained soil, attracting
bees and butterflies while providing habitat for small
wildlife.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-1.5 ft
SPREAD: 1-1.5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring to summer
BLOOM COLOR: Purple

Great Solomon’s seal has long, arching stems that
dangle cream-colored flowers in early spring. It
spreads slowly by rhizomes in optimal conditions.
Large purple fruits and golden leaves add interest in
fall. Great Solomon’s seal can grow in full sun if
provided adequate and consistent moisture but does
best in part to full shade in average, humus-rich soil.
Pollinated by small native bees.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-3 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: White

This Solomon’s seal prefers partial sun to medium
shade, moist conditions, and organic soils. It is a
wonderful spring blooming plant with white tubular
flowers gracing arching stems. Flowers give way to
large blue fruit in the fall which appear in stark
contrast to the yellow fall foliage. Pollinated by small
native bees.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2 ft
SPREAD: 1 ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to moist
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow-green

Similar in effect to but somewhat larger than the true
larches, the golden larch (genus Pseudolarix,
meaning false larch) is an uncommon landscape
tree. Like the larches, it is a deciduous conifer,
turning a golden color in fall before dropping its
needles. Cones are attractive and shatter at
maturity, unlike many conifers. A choice tree in the
right spot, they prefer well-drained, organic, acidic
soils. Trees at Holden’s David G. Leach Research
Station are about 70 feet tall and 35 feet wide after
nearly 50 years. These are seedlings from those
trees.
P4T Large Tree
TYPE: Tree
HEIGHT: 50 ft
SPREAD: 25 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: N/A
BLOOM COLOR: N/A

Primarily found in the coastal plain and piedmont of
the Southeastern US. Distinct from other mountain-mints with its showy flowers held in ball-shaped
terminal clusters, and foliage with a mild citrusy
aroma.
US Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-3 ft
SPREAD: 1-3 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: White

Though in the mint family, and referred to as a mint,
plants in this genus are not nearly as weedy as true
mints in the genus Mentha. Although the individual
flowers of this plant are not much to look at, leaves
and bracts near to the blooms don a silvery sheen
which greatly increases the beauty and wow factor.
Foliage is mint-scented, and arguably better-tasting
than true mints. Flowers attract smaller pollinators,
and foliage hosts a couple of moths.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-3 ft
SPREAD: 1-3 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: White

Grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil
in full sun. Prefers clay or sandy soils. Tolerates poor,
dry soils.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-5 ft
SPREAD: 1.5-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

One of 6 new introductions from HF&G’s David G.
Leach Research Station being offered this year.
Resistant to root rot disease with showy flowers and
compact form, this hybrid is the result of 20+ years of
breeding at HF&G. Get one in every color! Like all
rhododendrons, afternoon shade or filtered all day
light and acidic, well-drained soils are best.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 5 ft
SPREAD: 4 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Fuchsia

One of 6 new introductions from HF&G’s David G.
Leach Research Station being offered this year.
Resistant to root rot disease with showy flowers and
compact form, this hybrid is the result of 20+ years of
breeding at HF&G. Get one in every color! Like all
rhododendrons, afternoon shade or filtered all day
light and acidic, well-drained soils are best.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 5 ft
SPREAD: 5 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Peachy with pink and yellow tones

One of 6 new introductions from HF&G’s David G.
Leach Research Station being offered this year.
Resistant to root rot disease with showy flowers and
compact form, this hybrid is the result of 20+ years of
breeding at HF&G. Get one in every color! Like all
rhododendrons, afternoon shade or filtered all day
light and acidic, well-drained soils are best.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 5 ft
SPREAD: 5 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

One of 6 new introductions from HF&G’s David G.
Leach Research Station being offered this year.
Resistant to root rot disease with showy flowers and
compact form, this hybrid is the result of 20+ years of
breeding at HF&G. Get one in every color! Like all
rhododendrons, afternoon shade or filtered all day
light and acidic, well-drained soils are best.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 4 ft
SPREAD: 5 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Pink in bud, opening white with a
prominent red nectar guide

One of 6 new introductions from HF&G’s David G.
Leach Research Station being offered this year.
Resistant to root rot disease with showy flowers and
compact form, this hybrid is the result of 20+ years of
breeding at HF&G. Get one in every color! Like all
rhododendrons, afternoon shade or filtered all day
light and acidic, well-drained soils are best.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 4 ft
SPREAD: 5 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Deep raspberry

One of 6 new introductions from HF&G’s David G.
Leach Research Station being offered this year.
Resistant to root rot disease with showy flowers and
compact form, this hybrid is the result of 20+ years of
breeding at HF&G. Get one in every color! Like all
rhododendrons, afternoon shade or filtered all day
light and acidic, well-drained soils are best.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 4 ft
SPREAD: 5 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Red to reddish pink

Big and bold, Rhododendron ‘Calsap’ is a favorite in
our rhododendron gardens. A hybrid between
Rhododendron catawbiense var. album (“Cal”) and
Rhododendron ‘Sappho’ (“Sap”), ‘Calsap’ gets its
hardiness from R. catawbiense and its gaudy, white,
maroon-blotched flowers from ‘Sappho’. This plant
will get large, growing about as tall and wide as the
standard lavender-flowered rhododendrons in
everyone’s yard. It flowers in late May. These plants
are grafted onto one of those lavender cultivars,
‘English Roseum’, to help it perform better in our
climate.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 4-7 ft
SPREAD: 4-7 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: White with maroon blotch

)The standard zone 5 hardy, yellow-flowered
rhododendron. This is grafted on ‘English Roseum’,
one of the standard lavender-flowered
rhododendrons, which tends to perform better in our
area.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 6 ft
SPREAD: 6 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

We’re not sure what happened to Delp’s Pride #1-14,
but we’re fond of #15 and have been propagating it
for several years. Big, orange-red flowers cover the
shrub in May. Foliage turns a dark, maroon color in
fall and persists through winter. A good one.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 4
SPREAD: 4
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Orange-Red

When Holden Forests and Gardens opted to hand
over the Lantern Court property to Red Oak Camp,
staff made efforts to propagate plants of interest
before the property changed hands. The team at the
Leach Research Station was intrigued by this coded
Girard azalea that was growing well, knowing it’s a
piece of azalea history from the famous nursery in
Geneva. We cannot find any more information about
it, but it’s a Girard evergreen azalea, so we’re sure it
will be showy, floriferous, and cold hardy. Try one out
in your garden. We’ll be doing the same.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 4 ft
SPREAD: 4 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: To Be Determined

A slow, compact grower named by David Leach in 1962. Our oldest plants at the Leach Research
station are maybe 8 feet tall after 60 years. Perhaps
an allusion to the Maid of the Mist at Niagara Falls, its
name fits perfectly, especially on those cool, foggy
mornings around Mother’s Day when it is in bloom.
This is grafted onto English Roseum, one of the
standard lavender-flowered rhododendrons that
perform well enough in our area. Like every
rhododendron in our area, part shade and well-drained, acidic soils are best.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 3 ft
SPREAD: 3 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: No wet soils
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Pink in bud, opening to white

Straight and to the point, ‘Red Red’ produces red
flowers in mid-late May. Hybridized by Tony
Shammarello of South Euclid, this azalea is part of a
long tradition of rhododendron and azalea
hybridizing in our area. Red Red is one of our
favorites at the Leach Research Station. Azaleas are
rhododendrons but tend to be more garden-friendly.
Still, partial shade and acidic, well-drained soils are
your friend.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 4 ft
SPREAD: 4 ft
LIGHT: Part shade
SOIL MOISTURE:
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Red

Wild black currant is a deciduous shrub prized for its
fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in early spring,
followed by edible black berries beloved by birds and
wildlife. With its spreading habit and arching stems,
this native plant thrives in full sun to partial shade
and moist, well-drained soil, making it an excellent
choice for woodland gardens, hedgerows, or wildlife
habitats. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance,
wild black currant adds both beauty and ecological
value to any landscape.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 6 ft
SPREAD: 6 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Moist
BLOOM TIME: Spring to early summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

This cultivar was discovered in Illinois, and is
distinguished by its rolled petals. This species of
Susan is known best for its anise-scented flowers.
Like other Susans, this one is adaptable and reliable,
and supports many native pollinators.
US Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-5 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

This sage is a striking perennial prized for its vibrant
purple flowers and dark purple stems, which
contrast beautifully with its aromatic gray-green
foliage. It blooms late spring to early summer but
repeats bloom with deadheading. ‘Caradonna’
attracts pollinators with its nectar-rich blossoms and
thrives in sunny, well-drained locations. With its
upright growth habit and long-lasting blooms, this
drought-tolerant plant is ideal for borders, rock
gardens, or containers, adding color and texture to
any landscape.
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Purple

Lizard’s Tail is a charming perennial native to North
America, prized for its unique white flower spikes
that resemble the tail of a lizard. This aquatic plant
thrives in moist to wet soil and part shade, making it
ideal for pond margins, stream banks, or rain
gardens. With its spreading habit and lush green
foliage, Lizard’s Tail provides habitat for aquatic
wildlife while adding visual interest to water features
and wetland areas. The interesting flowers are
pollinated by wind, bees, and flies, and the foliage
has a slight, pleasant spicy aroma. The flowers are
also supposedly a favored perch of dragonflies and
damselflies.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Wet
BLOOM TIME: Summer to early fall
BLOOM COLOR: White

This scabiosa is a charming perennial known for its
lavender-blue flowers and extended blooming
period. With compact growth and fern-like foliage, it
thrives in sunny, well-drained locations, making it
ideal for borders, rock gardens, or containers. Lowmaintenance and drought-tolerant, ‘Butterfly Blue’ is
tolerant of deer. Holden’s director of horticulture
loves scabiosas – and you will, too!
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Purple

Little Bluestem is a native North American grass
prized for its ornamental value and ecological
benefits. With slender stems and fine foliage that
transitions from blue-green to bronze and red in the
fall, it offers year-round interest. Little Bluestem is
ideal for prairie gardens and naturalized areas,
providing habitat for wildlife while adding texture and
color to the landscape. Native grasses serve as
important hosts for many native insects.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-4 ft
SPREAD: 1.5-2 ft
LIGHT:
SOIL MOISTURE:
BLOOM TIME: Late summer
BLOOM COLOR: Brown

Sedum ‘SunSparkler’ Dazzleberry is a striking
perennial with compact growth and vibrant raspberry-pink flowers that bloom in late summer. Its
succulent, blue-green foliage forms dense ground
cover, making it perfect for sunny, well-drained
gardens or containers. Low-maintenance and
drought-tolerant, Dazzleberry adds vibrant beauty to
any landscape, and is tolerant of rabbits and deer.
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 6-8 in
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry
BLOOM TIME: Late summer to fall
BLOOM COLOR: Burgundy

A sedum for shade! Yup, this sedum is a beautiful
low-growing groundcover for the shady garden,
covered with flowers in masses of small white stars
in the early spring. This plant usually grows on flood
plains near streams, but it will grow in the garden
average soils. This cultivar was originally found in
the shale barrens of New Jersey and it has more
flowers and stays more compact than the normal
species. The flowers offer a wonderful early food
source for those early butterflies and bees and the
plant also can be a food source for the caterpillars of
the variegated fritillary butterfly.
Ohio Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 6 in
SPREAD: 1-1.5 ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: White

Wild Senna is a striking perennial prized for its
clusters of bright yellow flowers and ornamental
seed pods. Native to North America, this herbaceous
plant blooms in mid to late summer, attracting
pollinators with its nectar-rich blossoms. With
pinnate leaves and upright stems, Wild Senna forms
a bushy clump in sunny to partially shaded locations
with well-drained soil. Ideal for prairie gardens,
meadows, or naturalized areas, Senna hebecarpa
adds beauty and ecological value with its vibrant
blooms and wildlife-attracting features.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 4-6 ft
SPREAD: 3-4 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to moist
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

This species of goldenrod is on the federal
endangered species list. There are fewer than 20
known populations remaining in the world. This
cultivar was developed by the Cincinnati Zoo &
Botanical Garden during preservation efforts. It is
well-behaved, beautiful in flower, and of great
benefit to native pollinators.
US Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-2.5 ft
SPREAD: 1.5-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Fall
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

Indian pink, is a charming herbaceous perennial
known for its tubular red flowers with yellow throats.
Blooming in late spring to early summer, this North
American native attracts hummingbirds and thrives
in shaded, moist soil. Perfect for woodland gardens,
Indian Pink adds vibrant color and wildlife interest to
any landscape.
US Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2 ft
SPREAD: 6-18 in
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer
BLOOM COLOR: Red with yellow

This cultivar of Stokes’ aster is a captivating
perennial prized for its creamy white flowers. Stokes’
aster features lance-shaped deep green leaves,
providing a stunning contrast to the vibrant blooms
that appear in summer. The daisy-like flowers, held
on sturdy stems, attract a wide array of pollinators
and add a splash of color to garden borders, rock
gardens, or containers. Thriving in full sun and welldrained soil, ‘Silver Moon’ is a low-maintenance and
drought-tolerant addition to any garden, offering both
beauty and resilience.
US Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-1.5 ft
SPREAD: 1-1.5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer to early fall
BLOOM COLOR: White

Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-1.5 ft
SPREAD: 9-12 in
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME:
BLOOM COLOR:

Also known as celandine poppy, in the spring, this
plant yields mounds of bright yellow flowers in the
woodland. All your neighbors will ask ‘What’s that
beautiful yellow flower?”. A small pair of leaves at
the base of each flower stalk gives this plant the
species name diphyllum, with ‘di’ meaning two and
‘phyllum’ meaning leaves. When temperatures warm
in mid-summer, cut the foliage to the ground to get a
fresh flush of growth and sporadic blooms through
the fall. Propagated from seeds collected in
Holden’s Wildflower Garden
Ohio Native Cultivar
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-1.5 ft
SPREAD: 1-1.5 ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Spring to summer
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

This is a tall, stately aster. It produces clusters of
large, periwinkle blue blossoms in late summer and
early fall. Like other asters, it is an important
nectaring plant for native pollinators, and hosts
many species of insects on its foliage. A plant of
moist to wet ground. It is able to colonize to an
extent, but does not form impenetrable stands.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 6-8 ft
SPREAD: 2-3 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Moist to wet
BLOOM TIME: Fall
BLOOM COLOR: Light purple with yellow

Like other Korean lilacs, this one produces pink
flowers with a wondrous aroma. ‘Palibin’ is
distinguished by its compact size.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 4-5 ft
SPREAD: 5-7 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

Similar in floral character to other Korean lilacs, with
soft pink flowers and a lovely fragrance. This one,
though, has an interesting weeping form.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 5-7 ft
SPREAD: 3-5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Pink

Named in honor of Albert Fairchild Holden, who
established the founding trust behind the Holden
Arboretum. This cultivar is upright in form, with darkgreen heart-shaped leaves, and pinky-purple
flowers.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 6-7 ft
SPREAD: 7-8 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Purple

Thuja koraiensis, the Korean Thuja or Arborvitae, is a
striking evergreen conifer prized for its elegant
pyramidal form, dense foliage, and year-round
ornamental value. Native to Korea, this majestic tree
features vibrant green to dark green scale-like leaves
arranged in flattened sprays, with inconspicuous
cones emerging in spring. Thuja koraiensis serves as
an ideal specimen tree, privacy screen, or
windbreak, offering both beauty and functionality in
residential and commercial landscapes.
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 15-30 ft
SPREAD: 10-15 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: N/A
BLOOM COLOR: N/A

Toad Lily is a captivating perennial prized for its
unique appearance. With elegant upright stems and
clusters of orchid-like flowers in shades of lavender
and white, delicately speckled with deeper purple
markings, it resembles a living watercolor
masterpiece. Its lush, glossy green foliage forms a
dense clump, providing a rich backdrop to the
exquisite blooms. Thriving in partial to full shade,
‘Seiryu’ is ideal for woodland gardens, shaded
borders, or patio containers, where its enchanting
presence adds a touch of sophistication and intrigue,
inviting admirers to pause and marvel at its beauty.
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2 ft
SPREAD: 3 ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to moist
BLOOM TIME: Late summer to fall
BLOOM COLOR: Purple with white

This species of toad lily is quite similar to the rest,
but with interesting white petals speckled maroon.
The real magic of this cultivar is the leaves. They are
variegated with light green; the tissue is striped
unpredictably with streaks of light and dark, adding
zing to any flower bed.
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1-2ft
SPREAD: 1-2ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Late summer to early fall
BLOOM COLOR: White with burgundy

Toad-lilies have unique spotted flowers that bloom
from late summer until fall. They can be considered
unfussy, long lived plants that unless starved of all
water, are very difficult to kill. Would make a great
addition to a woodland garden.
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2.5-3 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Fall
BLOOM COLOR: Pink with purple

This grass is similar to Panicum virgatum, with
upright form and tall, airy inflorescences. Purpletop
is a bit taller than Panicum, though, and the
inflorescences have a pronounced purple color.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 3-5 ft
SPREAD: 3 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Late summer to fall
BLOOM COLOR: Purple

This is a red trillium, whose burgundy flowers are in
sharp contrast with the whites of T. grandiflorum.
The distinctive leaves exhibit variegation in shades of
green.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 6-12 in
SPREAD: 6-12 in
LIGHT: Part shade to full shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Maroon

In addition to the edible berries we all know and love,
blueberries also bear beautiful, bell-shaped flowers
in spring and stunning red fall color. Blueberries
prefer full to part sun and moist acidic soil. It is best
to plant more than one selection to get more fruit –
for your pancakes or your pies!
Ohio Native
TYPE: Shrub
HEIGHT: 3-8 ft
SPREAD: 3-7 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet
BLOOM TIME: Spring
BLOOM COLOR: Whitish pink

Large cranberry is a creeping shrub with small alternate oval leaves. The delicate pink to white flower petals recurve to form a Turk’s cap and bloom in mid to late spring. Cranberries prefer full sun and moist soil. This selection from Lantern Court is unusually tolerant of dry soil and grows well in the island beds of the parking lot. Fruit is a great source of food for local wildlife and Thanksgiving dinner as well! Flowers are visited by native bees. Ohio Native

TYPE: Shrub

HEIGHT: <1 ft

SPREAD: 1-2 ft

LIGHT: Full sun to part shade

SOIL MOISTURE: Medium to wet

BLOOM TIME: Spring

BLOOM COLOR: White to pink

In warmer areas, this plant will live up to its common
name and grow to about 15 feet in height, complete
with true woody trunks. In Ohio’s climate, chastetree
will function as a perennial, dying back to the ground
every year. Even so, it will produce pretty spikes of
white blooms, which contrast nicely with the
interesting lobed foliage. Over time, this plant will
colonize an area. Native to the Mediterranean.
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 2-3 ft
SPREAD: 3-5 ft
LIGHT: Full sun
SOIL MOISTURE: Dry to medium
BLOOM TIME: Summer to fall
BLOOM COLOR: White

Golden Alexander is a member of the carrot family
and is easy to grow. Although short-lived, it will selfseed and adapt to a variety of soil and light
conditions. It has persisted in the Wildflower Garden
in full shade for many years but is much taller and
blooms more prolifically in full sun in the Butterfly
Garden. Yellow, umbel shaped flowers appear in
late spring and last for several weeks. This plant is
important for the black swallowtail whose
caterpillars feed on its leaves, and many shorttongued pollinators that take full advantage of the
nectar in the small yellow flowers. Propagated from
seed collected in the Butterfly Garden.
Ohio Native
TYPE: Perennial
HEIGHT: 1.5-3 ft
SPREAD: 1-2 ft
LIGHT: Full sun to part shade
SOIL MOISTURE: Medium
BLOOM TIME: Late spring
BLOOM COLOR: Yellow

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