Category Archives: Asperagaceae

Yucca filamentosa ‘Golden Sword’, Golden Sword yucca

Family: Asperagaceae

Description:

This evergreen yucca is comprised of a rosette of flat, sword-shaped leaves. The variegated form is susceptible to reversion. In summer, creamy bell-shaped flowers emerge along a central stalk, reaching 6-feet in height. Flowers are lightly fragrant and only pollinated by the yucca moth, which does not live in the Vancouver region. It will, however, spread aggressively by rhizomes.

Growing conditions:

This species is best in full-sun, tolerating dry spells.   It can tolerate moisture, as long as it is planted in a sunny location with well-drained soil.

Suitable uses:

Because this is a prone to spread, it is best to plant this in a contained environment, such as a median, container, or traffic circle.

CC Image courtesy of biggest_toes on Flickr

CC Image courtesy of DM on Flickr

Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nippon’, dwarf mondo grass

Family: Asparagaceae

Description:

Ophiopogon japonicus is a low-tufted grass growing a maximum 2-5 inches tall. It is dark in color and fine textured. Depending on site conditions, this clump-forming species can provide either an even or patchy covering.

Growing conditions:

This species is extremely shade tolerant. It is best in a protected area, away from foot traffic. To avoid browning of grass tips, it is best to plant at lower elevations, as this species is not particularly cold-hardy.

Suitable uses:

Ophiopogon is often used as a groundcover. If kept away from foot traffic this grass species will form a more even covering, neat and tidy in appearance. It works particularly well planted as islands interspersed with moss and rocks.

CC Image courtesy of Megan Hansen on Flickr

CC Image courtesy of Michael on Flickr

Hosta ‘Fortunei Variegata’, variegated Fortune hosta

Family: Asperagaceae

Description:

Hostas are a versatile group with around 1,000 different varieties with characteristic foliage. The broad leaves are tough with parallel veination and undulating margins. Hosta ‘Fortunei Variegata’ has variegated leaves, though the hosta group has a variety of leaf colors ranging from dull to bright green. Purple bell-shaped flowers extend above the low mounded clump of leaves. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds pollinate these relatively short-lived flowers.

Growing conditions:

Hostas are notable for shade tolerance. When leaves are expanding, regular moisture is ideal. After established, these plants do not require too much water, making it relatively low maintenance. This particular variety is fairly fibrous and less susceptible to slugs.

Suitable uses:

As a shade loving species, Hosta ‘Fortunei Variegata’ can be planted under large trees and foliage, or along the north side of a building. It can be planted in containers or on slab.

            CC Image courtesy of                  Edith Maracle (Berghout) on Flickr

CC Image courtesy of pattynwalter on Flickr