Falling Over For Fall Foliage

It is an absolute flawless fall day here on the farm, and there is no better time then to discuss autumn foliage. Sure, of course, maples of all types first come to mind, but have you thought about all the beauty there is to behold in shrubs, perennials and even annuals whom haven't met their time due to frost?

The farm here is surrounded by long shrub borders; within their living walls contains alees, espaliers, perennial fields, and huge containers bursting with seasonal eye candy. We are going to take a closer look at some of the more unusual plant material we carry here that would be dramatic in any garden from here in Maine on southwards.

 

Above from left to right we are starting with Stewartia pseudocamellia. This shrub-like tree is a standout, with spring blooms, orange-red fall foliage and the most gorgeous gray bark. Next, a real hard to find shrub is Heptacodium. It's green leaves become edged in plum and the pink seed pods are to die for. Smokebush or Cotius coggygria is a proven all-star in the garden keeping it's grape colored leaves from early spring when they emerge till the hard frost. Finally Vanicum or Blueberry doesn't look like much during the growing season, but the cooler temperatures turn it to fire in the landscape.

Onto more shrubs from left to right. Starting with another plant that doesn't look like much at all in the warmer months is Ilex verticillata or Winterberry. This shrub is best planted in the distance as it looks more like a weed tree but as soon as it's berries ripen and its leaves become tinged in purple its a showstopper! Viburnums are much like the Stewartia in the since that they produce spring or summer blooms, great architecture and their foliage turns more chocolate like hues. Last but not least, the shrub everyone wants this time of year, the Burning Bush. Again, one that should be planted at a distance and thoughtfully placed this shrub knocks your socks off when its burning in the garden.

Most don't think of associating perennials with the fall but in mass or as a detail specimen they really hold up amongst the shrubs of the season. Left to right we are starting with Stoke's asters or Stokesia laevis. This perennial just recently finished blooming and it's seed pods and strapped like leaves go from rich green to violet tones.
Next another perennial that just ended its show is Eupatorium or Joe Pye Weed. This super tall native is best planted in masses where its golden yellow foliage and faded pink plumes can be admired. Amsonia is another all season pleaser with gray foliage and blue star like flowers in the spring it changes to all yellow almost over night.
Another hard to find shade perennial is Persicaria 'Red Dragon' or Fleeceflower. When it emerges and leafs out in the spring its edged in shades of silver that fade towards deep plum at its center.

The next batch of perennials definitely also add texture to the autumn garden. Left to right Rodgersia is an architectural giant. This massive clump former has rigid deep green leaves that turn a kaleidoscope in the cool nights.
Vines can also offer detailed bursts of autumn color like this Clematis 'Montana'. Once established up a trellis its a site to behold this time of year.
One perennial one might not think to plant in a border is Asparagus. Yes, the edible varieties if not harvested they become giant plooms of light green. Later in the season look like sunshine yellow feathers with red berries clinging to them.
Ligularia is a super sweet foliage plant, bringing architecture much like the Rodgersia with a softer look. It's dark rounded leaves hold sturdy all season with the added bonus of large brilliant yellow blooms carried high over the foliage.

And finally another unexpected group of plants that offer gorgeous fall color to the garden, annuals and tropical plant material. Before a frost these plants hold their own and can make a mighty statement! Left to right; first off is the huge genus of Canna. They come in so many different colors and leaf shapes and they are either grown for the later or their tropical blooms. This variety is aptly named 'Grande'
Next up is a hard to find one, Eupatorium capillifolium, a native of the south east though not zone hardy here this tender perennial is a tall upright feathered compact version of the previously mentioned asparagus. It also turns a subtle gold at the base with corn stalk like subtle blooms at the top.
Coleus like Canna offers a huge genus with a plethora of unique varieties. A subtle frost will make this foliage annual turn a sad dark sight but until then it holds its own and adds brilliant color to a container or garden bed.
Another edible that can be enjoyed in the garden or on the table is Swiss chard 'Rainbow Lights'. Planted either in the spring or early fall this delicious foliage vegetable adds just the right charm and texture. Like Kale unless their is a deep freeze in your climate this one just might make it through for a whole other season!

We hoped you enjoyed this uncommon look at autumn foliage and we urge you to take a different perspective on all the different plants that are out there that can enhance your garden this time of year! Happy Fall Y'all from all of us here at Snug!