{"title":"On the Shadier Side","description":"\u003cp\u003eI have quite a bit to write about light requirements, but until that happens, here is a useful list for your shadier areas. Almost none of these plants will grow well in deep shade under a conifer. Morning sun can be similar to \u003cem\u003epart shade\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003edappled shade\u003c\/em\u003e, or \u003cem\u003ehigh and light shade\u003c\/em\u003e. Spring ephemerals want deciduous shade, ie: spring sunshine with a more closed canopy as the season progresses. Light is accumulative. Other things to keep in mind are that many plants can grow in a variety of light conditions, but they will grow differently, perhaps a more open or rangy shape. They may flower less and they may need less water. So, I also suggest reading each plant description for further details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat I will say right now is that plants want to grow and will grow in surprising places, often where humans did not think they could manage, so don't get too rule bound. Observe and take note of the specifics of each situation.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"actaea-racemosa","title":"Actaea racemosa - Black Cohosh","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/b\u003e 2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-7,  48-72\" x 48\", part shade, white bloom in July-August, soil fairly heavy, acid-neutral, somewhat adaptable but prefers consistent moisture and 2-3 hours of morning sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSynonym: \u003c\/b\u003eCimicifuga racemosa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eBlack Cohosh, Black Bugbane, Black Snakeroot, Rattle-top, Fairy Candle\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eRanunculaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eOccurs in eastern North America. Not native to Maine, but a garden escapee in parts of New England.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eDeciduous woodland openings, rich and moist, but adaptable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eNectar for pollinators! Black Cohosh is fragrant, although its scent is not to everyone's liking, and makes a good cut flower. It is an herbaceous, architectural perennial that is a charismatic understory connector between lower layers and woodland shrubs. The plant has numerous medicinal properties, including the treatment of menopausal symptoms. However, as with many medicinal plants it also contains potentially toxic components. It is a larval host for \u003cem\u003eCelastrina ladon \u003c\/em\u003e(Spring Azure) and \u003cem\u003eCelastrina argiolus \u003c\/em\u003e(Holly Blue), both of which are native to Maine. This northeastern native is not native to Maine, but is naturalizing in southern Maine. It prefers a few hours of morning sun or a dappled woodland.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits, \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ein order of appearance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003eInflorescence by H. Zell through Creative Commons; Wikimedia Commons; Growth Habit (in quite a bit of sun!) by H. Zell through Creative Commons; Wikimedia Commons; Seedheads by H. Zell through Creative Commons. All of H. Zell's images are on the North Carolina Extension Gardeners Plant Toolbox\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50581941879091,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/NCEXTTOOLACTARACEinflorHZell.jpg?v=1747675648"},{"product_id":"ageratina-altissima","title":"Ageratina altissima - White Snakeroot","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezone 3-8, 24-36\" x 24-36\", part sun to part shade, white blooms July to September, perhaps even later, quite adaptable with good drought tolerance, does best with consistent moisture in part shade\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSynonym: \u003c\/b\u003eEupatorium rugosum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eWhite Snakeroot, Richweed, White Sanicle\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eAsteraceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eeastern and central North America; these plants were grown from seed collected in New England and this plant is native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003ewoods, thickets, woodland openings, disturbed shade, shady waterway edges\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eNectar for a variety pollinators: flies, moths, butterflies, bees, wasps. Also a good cut flower. When in bloom, the highly adaptable and potentially self-seeding Snakeroot lights up shady woodland edges. This plant is toxic to both humans and livestock. If enough is consumed by a grazing animal, the milk and meat from that animal is also poisonous to humans. The foliage is bitter, which decreases the chance of over-grazing by livestock. However, the root and leaves have also been used medicinally. Deer resistant. Larval host for Phragmatobia assimilans (Large Ruby Tiger Moth), P. lineata (Lined Ruby Tiger Moth), Haploa clymene (Clymene Moth), Melanchra adjuncta (Hitched Dart or Hitched Arches Moth), Leucospilapteryx venustella (Ageratina Leafminer) among others. Also home to these gallformers: Asphondylia eupatorii (Stemgall Midge), Neolasioptera eupatorii, and Schizomyia euparoiflorae. bplant.org says that Ageratina altissima is quite competitive so I think it is potentially a good bet to hold ground against invasives. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Honey Petal Plants, grown from seed collected in New England\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50615196942643,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Ageratina_altissima__2021-09-10__Seldom_Seen__01.jpg?v=1745178543"},{"product_id":"anaphalis-margaritacea","title":"Anaphalis margaritacea - Pearly Everlasting","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 48.00, mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-8, 12-24” x 12-24”, full sun to part shade, charming white \"buttons\" bloom on a branching structure in mid to late summer, likes well-drained soil, sandy or gravelly and on the lean side. Drought tolerant and likes well drained soil, but can take a moister soil in full sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003ePearly Everlasting\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Asteraceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e North America, Asia, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eVery adaptable. Common along roadsides, fallow fields, meadows, and prairies as well as open woods, the edges of rivers and lakes (in full sun), and man-made or disturbed habitats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eBe prepared for the leaves to get munched and made into shelters by both American Lady, \u003cem\u003eVanessa virginiensis\u003c\/em\u003e and Painted Lady, \u003cem\u003eVanessa cardui\u003c\/em\u003e, caterpillars. They create silken webs around and among the leaves and stems. Your plants are used to this and will survive. Although shorter-stemmed, Pearly Everlasting makes a good cut flower, in particular, for drying and for smaller posies. It also has medicinal properties and has been used as a substitute for tobacco. This plant is dioecious so it's best planted in a group. Likes full sun but I have a good patch going in part shade. Tolerant of both drought and lean soil. Likes good drainage, however Go Botany says it can sometimes be found on wetland edges. This plant is stoloniferous and a strong spreader under the right conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from New Moon Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50615253303603,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Anapahlis_margaritacea.jpg?v=1745179781"},{"product_id":"aquilegia-canadensis","title":"Aquilegia canadensis - Wild Columbine","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eTBD, coming at the end of June\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezone 3-8, 24\" x 18\", part sun to part shade, red with yellow spur, spring to early summer bloom, consistently moist, well-drained soil with low fertility in full sun, but more drought tolerant in shady spots. Prefers calcareous soil, but adaptable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eWild Columbine, Eastern Red Columbine, Canada Columbine, Canadian Columbine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eRanunculaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003etemperate regions of Eastern and Central North America, native to Maine, these plants were grown from seed collected in New England\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003erocky slopes with dappled shade, good drainage, peat bog edges, open and high woodland shade\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eNectar for Ruby-throated hummingbirds and long-tongued insects such as butterflies and hawk moths. Host plant for \u003cem\u003eEosphoropteryx thyatyroides\u003c\/em\u003e (Pink-tinted Beauty). Has been used medicinally, but is also potentially toxic, so proceed with caution. Wild Columbine has also been used as a love charm. Perhaps caution is warranted there as well. Makes a good cut flower. Deer and rabbit resistant.  This plant prefers sandy, well-drained soils in part sun with adequate moisture, but can adapt to dry, part shade. It will hybridize with other Columbines. It might self-sow (in a good way). High fertility soils encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from Van Berkum Nursery, grown from seed collected in New England\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens; illustration from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642285461811,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Columbine1.jpg?v=1745437515"},{"product_id":"aralia-racemosa","title":"Aralia racemosa - American Spikenard","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3 to 7, 36-60\" x 36\", part shade, greenish-white flower in mid-summer, purple berry in fall, consistent to moderate moisture in fertile woodland soils, tolerant of rocky or clay soils, drought tolerant in the most shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eAmerican Spikenard, Small Spikenard, Indian Root, Spice Berry, Spignet, Life-of-Man, Petty Morel\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eAraliaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eEastern North America, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eMedium to moist, rich, woods, sheltered slopes and ravines, thickets, open woods and sun-dappled places\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eBerries attract birds. The aromatic root has been used medicinally as well as to flavor root beer. Deer resistant. The flowering racemes and berried branches are very attractive as is it's open, but architectural habit. I wonder if it makes a good cut for the vase. These plants were grown from seed collected in New England. Although not a shrub, Aralia racemosa has an open, wide-branching habit and a handsome shrub-like appearance. It makes an excellent understory transition from lower-growing perennials to the tree layer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eP\u003cstrong\u003ehoto credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens; also Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642304270643,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/aralia.jpg?v=1745438199"},{"product_id":"asarum-canadense","title":"Asarum canadense - Wild Ginger","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP #1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-7, 4-10\" x 6-18\", part shade to full shade, the fascinating, secretive brownish-red flower is hidden under the leaves in mid-spring. Get down on your knees and check it out! Although every resource says this plant wants consistent moisture, I have found it to be quite adaptable to drier shade. Wild ginger does like a neutral to acidic woodland soil with some richness to it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eWild Ginger, Catfoot, Broad-leaved Asarabacca, Woodland Ginger, Sturgeon Potato, Namepin\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eAristolochiaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eeastern North America From Quebec and New Brunswick to Ontario and Minnesota south to Florida and Louisiana, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eshady moist woods and woodland slopes, deciduous understory\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eWild ginger holds its foliage well through the summer so it's a good companion for spring ephemerals. It has the ability to shade out some invasive like Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata). A potential colony-former with velvety, kidney-shaped leaves. The seeds are distributed by ants and it also spreads by rhizome, Deer resistant. The root has been used medicinally, and the plant contains the anti-tumor compound aristolochic acid. However, some sources say it has potentially carcinogenic properties as well. The roots have also been used as a spice, mostly to mask the muddy flavors of certain fish or make meats palatable\/digestible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum or Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePhoto credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens; also Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642321604915,"sku":"","price":14.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Ginger2.jpg?v=1745438534"},{"product_id":"astilbe-chinensis-milk-and-honey","title":"Astilbe chinensis 'Milk and Honey' - False Spiraea cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-9, 30\" x 18\", part sun to part shade, a white bloom that ages to pale pink about crisply dissected foliage in mid-summer, prefers a rich, moist but well-drained soil, resents drying out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eFalse Spiraea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eSaxifragaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eThe species occurs in Japan, eastern China, and Korea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eFoothills and mountainous regions in the open shade of moist, deciduous forests, also on river and stream banks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eA pollen and nectar source, a good cut flower fresh or in seed, resistant to deer, rabbits, and juglone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants or Van Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bluestone Perennials\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642332516659,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/ASMH-0-Astilbe-Milk-and-Honey1-wg.1625814496.jpg?v=1748260689"},{"product_id":"athyrium-nipponicum-snow-star","title":"Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Godzilla' - Japanese Painted Fern cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, eventually 3' x 4-6', part to full shade, prefers moist, rich, loamy soil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eJapanese Painted Fern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eWoodsiaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eAthyrium niponicum is found in Japan, northern China, Korea, and Japan\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003emoist woodlands and shady edges\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eFrom the Morris Arboretum blog: \"The genus name \u003cem\u003eAthyrium\u003c\/em\u003e derives from the Greek \u003cem\u003eathyros\u003c\/em\u003e, meaning doorless, and refers to the hinged indusia, a covering that protects the sorus, a collection of spore cases which are slow to open. \u003cem\u003eNiponicum\u003c\/em\u003e means of or from Japan...\u003cem\u003ePictum\u003c\/em\u003e means highly painted or highly colored...\" Can you guess what 'Godzilla' means? Don't you love this stuff?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy grow ferns? How about admiration for a group of plants that has been present on earth for over 360 million years, beautiful, leafy textures, and ecological services? All ferns provide much needed cool, shady cover for toads, frogs, salamanders, and small mammals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Van Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants, young 'Godzilla' on the nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642403361075,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/AMBGodzilla.jpg?v=1747871352"},{"product_id":"carex-appalachica","title":"Carex appalachica - Appalachian Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP 1 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 3-8, 8-12\" x 12\", part to full shade, but with consistent moisture can do well in a sunnier spot, tiny and subtle green flower in mid-spring, in shade it is very drought tolerant, wants good drainage\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/b\u003e Appalachian Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily:\u003c\/b\u003e Cyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/b\u003e eastern North America, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/b\u003e Occurs in dry, temperate forest - both deciduous and mixed deciduous\/evergreen, rocky, open woods, rock outcrops, woodland slopes, sometimes associated with hemlocks and in high, dry areas with maple, oak or beech.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore:\u003c\/b\u003e Larval host for various skipper and satyr butterfly species. Sedges are excellent cover and habitat for numerous invertebrates, small mammals and ground-nesting birds. C. appalachia is deer, rabbit, and juglone resistant. It has a formal look and is good for ground cover under shrubs and deciduous trees. Cut back in late winter prior to the onset of new growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhoto credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642595250483,"sku":"","price":9.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Carex_appalachica_-_Brooklyn_Botanic_Garden_-_Brooklyn__NY_-_DSC07918.jpg?v=1745231617"},{"product_id":"carex-plantaginea","title":"Carex plantaginea - Seersucker Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e Sizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-8, 6-12\" x 12-24\", part to full shade, bright light green, quilted leaves, prefers moist woodland soils, but quite drought tolerant once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eSeersucker Sedge, Plantain-leaved Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eCyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003enative to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eopen woodland\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eAlthough Carex species are generally deer and rabbit resistant, I have noticed that this one gets munched in the winter. Since it is an evergreen sedge and the herbivory happens under snow cover, I am thinking voles. But no worry, it bounces back just fine. This sedge has a formal look and works very well in a tailored garden. More information coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part, they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642613993779,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankCarexPlantaginea.jpg?v=1745442433"},{"product_id":"clematis-virginiana","title":"Clematis virginiana - Virgin's Bower","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-9, 12'-15' x 3', full sun to part shade, starry white blooms in late summer, likes a high organic content to its soil, but adaptable as to soil type. Is found in well-drained but moist sites, but is somewhat drought tolerant once established, especially in shady spots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eVirgin's Bower, Devil's Darning Needles, Devil's Hair, Love Vine, Traveler's Joy, Wild Hops, Woodbine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eRanunculaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:  \u003c\/b\u003eNewfoundland and Nova Scotia south to Oklahoma, Georgia, Louisiana, these plants were grown from seed collected in New England. This plant is native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003ewood's edge, damper slopes, thickets, stream banks, low and moist open woodland\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eLarval host for, among others, the Banded Hairstreak, \u003cem\u003eSatyrium calanus\u003c\/em\u003e, (pictured in Frank's photo) and the Clematis Clearwing, \u003cem\u003eAlcathoe caudata\u003c\/em\u003e, both of which are native to Maine. This lovely vine is rabbit, deer, and juglone resistant, and attracts pollinators, including hummingbirds. I am going to try it as a trailing component in flower arrangements. I am not sure it will last long in flower, but the seedheads are also interesting and will probably have a longer vase life if cut at that stage. There will certainly be plenty to cut. It has been used medicinally, but also contains toxic components, and may cause contact dermatitis in some people so proceed with caution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum Nursery, grown from seed collected in New England\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642618253619,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankClematisVirFlower.jpg?v=1745443792"},{"product_id":"cysopteris-bulbifera","title":"Cystopteris bulbifera - Bulblet Fragile Fern","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e 2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-8, 12-24\" x 12-24\", dappled to part to full shade, lime-y to neutral in humid and sheltered environments with \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003egood drainage\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eBulblet Fragile Fern, Bulblet Bladder Fern, Berry Bladder Fern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eWoodsiaceae (Go Botany)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eNewfoundland to Manitoba and Wisconsin, south to Georgia and Arkansas, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eshaded rocky slopes, balds, ledges, ridges, crevices of cliffs, talus, mossy boulders, protected and humid environments\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eGreat for a shady rock garden or woodland garden or that dream stumpery you've been cooking up. Lovely texture for a bouquet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy grow ferns besides your admiration for a plant that has been present on Earth for over 360 billion years? Ferns support wildlife by creating protective cover and shady, moist micro-habitats, in particular for small mammals and invertebrates. The fuzzy covering on emerging croziers is used by birds for nesting material. Ferns help prevent erosion and filter run-off. For the gardener they offer the gifts of graceful architecture and low-maintenance, textural beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eoverall form of the fern courtesy of Diderot, close up of bulbils on underside of frond courtesy of Richtid, both via Creative Commons through the North Carolina Extension Gardeners Plant Toolbox\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642625986867,"sku":"","price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/NCEXTTOOLCYSTopterisbulbDaderot.jpg?v=1748051427"},{"product_id":"dicentra-spectabilis-valentine","title":"Dicentra spectabilis 'Valentine' - Bleeding Heart cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eTrue gallon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, 24-30\" x 30\", part sun to part shade, vivid red flowers on dark, reddish stems, can endure a bit more sun than other Dicentra spectabilis cultivars and goes dormant a bit later, too. Is somewhat drought tolerant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSynonym: \u003c\/strong\u003eLamprocapnos spectabilis 'Valentine'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eThe species has many common names including Bleeding Heart, Locks and Keys, Lyre Flower, Heart Flower, Lady-in-a-Bath, Purse Peony (China), Gold Bag Flower (Japan).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003ePapaveraceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eSpecies is native to eastern Asia: Siberia, Japan, northern China, Korea. 'Valentine' was discovered as a chance seedling in British Columbia, Canada in 2005.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003ePrefers moist, open shade such as woodlands and woods openings and edges, but also grows in grasslands where it may go summer dormant and its roots are shaded by larger growing plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThis is a classy cut flower. I have it growing under mature oaks in my own garden and it is doing very well. More compact than the species. Bleeding Hearts are juglone, rabbit, and deer resistant.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642923225395,"sku":"","price":21.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/AMBDicentraSpecValentine.jpg?v=1747735883"},{"product_id":"epimedium-x-versicolor-sulpheureum","title":"Epimedium x versicolor 'Sulphureum' - Barrenwort hybrid","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eTrue gallon (uprooted early June)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 5-9, 12\" x 18\" (can spread up to 4\" per year), part to full shade, pale yellow flowers on curved wands held above the foliage in mid-spring, new leaves flush red and mature to green, very adaptable to dry shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eBarrenwort\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eBerberidaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eMost species Epimediums are from Asia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003edeciduous woodland\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThis particular Epimedium is quite vigorous and makes an excellent woodland ground cover that looks good all year, so site accordingly. Many varieties of Barrenwort have been in cultivation for over 150 years. A tried and true perennial for a shady border. Will gradually increase into a nice-size clump via rhizome. The foliage looks great all summer. Clumps can be divided in late summer. I have seen early season bees feeding on the flowers. This one is too robust for all but the largest woodland rock gardens. Epimediums are deer and rabbit resistant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eMidwest Groundcovers, LLC\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642930762035,"sku":"","price":24.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Epimedium_Sulphureum-1.jpg?v=1748908673"},{"product_id":"euthamia-graminifolia","title":"Euthamia graminifolia - Grass-leaved Goldenrod","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-9, 24-48\" x 12-24\", full sun to part shade, numerous tiny yellow flowers in a loose, flat-topped cluster over mid-green, \"grassy\" foliage in late summer, drought tolerant in part shade, but prefers full sun and consistent moisture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eGrass-leaved Goldenrod, Flat-topped Goldenrod\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSynonyms: \u003c\/b\u003eSolidago graminifolia: DNA analysis has resulted in this plant being reclassified from Solidago to Euthamia and it is not a true goldenrod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eAsteraceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eNative from Quebec to Maryland and west to North Dakota, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Euthamia graminifolia is native to Maine. These plants were grown from seed collected in New England.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003edamp to drier thickets, open areas, wood's edge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThis is an example of an adaptable, strong grower that can be slowed down by planting it in less than ideal conditions. In sun, with good moisture, it can dominate a planting. Try it in dry, part shade to curtail its enthusiasm. Makes a great cut flower, both before blooming as a textural filler and as a classic ingredient for a meadow-centered bouquet. The seeds are eaten by the Swamp Sparrow, \u003cem\u003eMelospiza georgiana\u003c\/em\u003e, which is not a year-round resident, but uses Maine for its breeding grounds. The American (or Eastern) Goldfinch, \u003cem\u003eCarduelis tristris\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eis\u003c\/span\u003e a year round resident of Maine that also enjoys the seeds. The blooms are attractive to numerous insects: both long and short-tongued bees, moths, butterflies, and small beetles such as the Goldenrod Soldier Beetle, \u003cem\u003eChauliognathus pensylvanicus,\u003c\/em\u003eand the Black Blister Beetle, \u003cem\u003eEpicauta pensylvanica\u003c\/em\u003e, both native to Maine. Euthamia graminifolia also hosts numerous gall-forming insects. Has been used medicinally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum Nursery, grown from seed collected in New England\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003ePrairie Moon Nursery; illustration from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642942525747,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/EUTHAMIA-GRAMINIFOLIA-GRASS-LEAVED-GOLDENROD-MAIN.jpg?v=1748873176"},{"product_id":"geranium-maculatum","title":"Geranium maculatum - Wild Geranium","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plug\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezone 4-9, 12-18\"x12-18\", full sun to part shade, light pinky-purple flower in mid to late spring, moist and well-drained acidic woodland soil, needs consistent moisture in the most sun in order to grow well. but somewhat drought tolerant in the shady spots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eWild Geranium, Spotted Geranium, Wood Geranium. In Europe: Spotted or Wild Cranesbill, Alumroot, Alum Bloom, Old Maid's Nightcap\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eGerinaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eeastern and central North America, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003edry to moist open woodland, woodland edge, lightly shaded meadows, for example, in a moist meadow this could be a feature in the spring and then happily be shaded by larger fall-blooming asters, etc. for the rest of the season\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eHas attractive leaves and an interesting seedhead. The seeds are enjoyed by Mourning Doves and Quail. The flowers are an early source of pollen and nectar for bumblebees and solitary bees as well as butterflies. \u003cem\u003eAndrena distans\u003c\/em\u003e, one of our wild bee species in Maine, is a specialist on this plant. It is a larval host for \u003cem\u003eOrgyia\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003eleucostigma\u003c\/em\u003e (White-marked Tussock Moth). G. maculatum likes open shade and wants consistent moisture when in full sun. It co-exists happily with Carex species, small ferns, epimediums, woodland asters, and goldenrods as part of a shady matrix. Deer and rabbit resistant. The root has been used medicinally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from North Creek Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eFrank Meuschke from Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642944786739,"sku":"","price":7.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankGerMacFlower.jpg?v=1745452875"},{"product_id":"heuchera-villosa-autumn-bride","title":"Heuchera villosa 'Autumn Bride' - Coral Bells cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, 12-24\" x 24\", part shade, loose spires of tiny ivory-white flowers held over large, fuzzy leaves in late summer to early autumn, drought tolerant once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eHairy Alum Root, Coral Bells\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eSaxifragaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eThe species is native from Virginia to Indiana and south to Alabama and Arkansas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eshady, rocky slopes, ledges, cliffs, well-drained woodlands, wood's edge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThis is hands down my favorite Heuchera. It grows much larger than other heucheras and has a substantial panicle of bloom late in the season. The maple-shaped leaves are large and velvety. Although it takes a couple of seasons to establish, 'Autumn Bride' grows well in dry shade and the bloom makes a good cut flower. Both the pale green leaves and the white flowers really brighten up the shady garden. Overall its character is elegant and stately. Salt tolerant and deer and rabbit resistant. Good cut flower. and good for larger rock gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50642983026995,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/HuechBrideFlower.jpg?v=1745524609"},{"product_id":"menyanthes-trifoliata","title":"Menyanthes trifoliata - Bogbean","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eBare root\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-10, 9-12\" x 12-24\", full sun to part shade, pink buds open to a very pretty white bloom in early to mid summer, must be wet. This is an aquatic species, but can be grown in a good sized tub and will winter over. Water needs to be 3\" over the rhizome. Likes acidic, peaty mud.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eBogbean, Buckbean, Marsh Trefoil\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eMenyanthaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eThis plant has been around since at least the Middle Miocene Era (Amazing!). It occurs in Asia and Europe as well a North America and it is native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003epond margins, wet woods, fens, bogs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eHas been used medicinally and the rootstock has been used to make flour or to stretch other grains during times of famine or other emergencies. The leaves are sometimes used in place of hops in beer-making. They are also boiled with honey to make mead. It is sometimes a bitter ingredient in schnapps. However, raw plant parts may cause vomiting, so proceed with caution. Spreads by rhizome and is a good plant for stabilizing wet edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eBare root from\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003eKind Earth Growers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644160315699,"sku":"","price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-MenyanthesTrifoliata_001.jpg?v=1745250460"},{"product_id":"nepeta-subsessilis","title":"Nepeta subsessilis - Japanese Catmint","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-9, 24-36\" x 24\", full sun to part shade, a more blue than purple wand of flowers in the summer, prefers a cooler, moister soil than other catmints.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eJapanese Catmint, Short-stalked Catmint\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eLamiaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eJapan, Korea\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003emoist, mountain slopes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eI am interested in learning about Catmints and have four different Nepetas available in the nursery this year. I am particularly interested in this one because it grows wild in dappled shade. I am also interested in these larger flowered repeats for bouquets. I will add more information as I learn more about it. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644171391283,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Nepeta-subsessilis-1.jpg?v=1749394276"},{"product_id":"osmundastrum-cinnamomea","title":"Osmundastrum cinnamomeum - Cinnamon Fern","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-9, part to full shade, 24-60\" x 24-48\", consistent moisture in rich woodland soils, if at a water edge actually in some water it can take more sun, a bit adaptable as to water needs in the shadiest spots. May go dormant in dry summers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eCinnamon Fern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eOsmundaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eeastern and central North America including Mexico and parts of Central America\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003emoist dappled shade, wetland edges, low, damp woodland, boggy spots\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eA beautiful, vase-shaped, clump-forming fern, the upright rust-colored fertile fronds give this fern its common name. These look good in dried flower arrangements, too. It takes a little while to get going but is long-lived, It is deer, rabbit, and juglone tolerant. The fuzzy coating on emerging croziers is used by birds as nesting material and the root crown fibers are used as a potting medium for orchids. As do all ferns, Cinnamon Fern provides both sheltered habitat and protected byways for numerous creatures. The fronds turn yellow in the fall. Has been used medicinally. Frond\u003cstrong\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003etips\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eare edible and can be eaten raw or in soups.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons; Frank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644178305331,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Cinnamon_fern.jpg?v=1745252526"},{"product_id":"patrinia-gibbosa","title":"Patrinia gibbosa - Patrinia","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezone 5-8, 12-18\" x 12-24\", sun to part shade, yellow spray of flowers in late summer, likes rich humus-y soil, well-drained, but not particularly picky. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003ePatrinia, Swollen Patrinia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eCaprifoliaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003enorthern Japan and the Kuril Islands\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003ehillsides with open shade, woodland edge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThis is a tough plant. I have wintered it over in pots above ground and it hasn't skipped a beat. Some sources say hardy to only zone 6, but I don't agree. Its numerous yellow flowers attract late season pollinators and even out of flower the dark green, textured leaves look fresh and the seed heads age well. It is a clump-former with a long bloom time. Good as a cut flower. Deer and rabbit resistant. May self-seed if happy. A good woodland edge or dappled shady border participant. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eJelitto Staudensamen GmbH\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644194754867,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/JelittoPatriniaGibbosa.jpg?v=1747582580"},{"product_id":"penstemon-hirsutus","title":"Penstemon hirsutus - Hairy Beardtongue","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eLandscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 4.80, mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-9, up to 18\" x 12\", full to part sun to partial shade, pale pinky-purple tubular flowers in late spring to early summer, can really take anything you throw at it: wet, med-wet, med-dry, dry. I would imagine it wants good winter drainage, though.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/b\u003e Hairy Beardtongue, Northeastern Beardtongue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003ePlantaginaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eMaine to Wisconsin and south to Virginia and Kentucky\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003edry fields and open or dapple-shaded woodlands\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eVery attractive to pollinators, persistent attractive leaves at ground-cover height. This is another waaaaaay underutilized native plant. Perhaps because of its unfortunate name? As you can see from the basic information, it is extremely adaptable. I have been saying when in doubt plant a strawberry or a violet and I am going to add \u003cem\u003ePenstemon\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003ehirsutus\u003c\/em\u003e to the list of no-brainer native plants. This plant would also be good for a rock garden. The flower is sweet in small posies. Penstemons, in general, are both deer and rabbit resistant as well as drought tolerant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens; illustration from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644201767219,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankPenstemonHirsutus.jpg?v=1745456130"},{"product_id":"pinellia-tripartita","title":"Pinellia tripartita - Green Dragon","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 5-9, 1-1.5' x .5-1', part sun to part shade to full shade, unique green bloom (a hood and spadix arrangement) in summer leading to an interesting seed head, likes moist, well-drained, fertile woodland soils, but it has tolerance to drought in its shadiest spots for sure. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eGreen Dragon, Voodoo Lily (Amorphophallus konjac is also known by this name, but is not this plant!)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eAraceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eeastern China, Japan, Korean peninsula\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eforest, forest edges, cultivated fields, roadsides\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThe whole plant is very charismatic. The seed heads are decorative and the tri-lobed leaves are a fresh green. It is related to Jack-in-the-Pulpit. Will self sow and spread by seeding and offsets. Good woodland ground cover candidate. I wonder if this would make a good house plant. It would go winter dormant, and likes a humid environment, but I imagine it would be pretty easy going. I am also going to try it as a cut flower and seed head. I will keep you posted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource \u003c\/strong\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eillustration from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644205633843,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Rumphia__sive__Commentationes_botanicae__imprimis_de_plantis_Indiae__Orientalis__8329496823.jpg?v=1747521367"},{"product_id":"polemonium-reptans","title":"Polemonium reptans - Jacob's Ladder","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-7, 12-18\" x 12-18\", part sun (full sun with consistent moisture) to part shade, sky blue flowers held on a stalk over highly dissected, mid-green foliage, blooms in spring, prefers moist, humus-rich soils, low drought tolerance, can probably take more shade than sources suggest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eJacob's Ladder, Greek Valerian, Skunked, Bluebell, Creeping Polemonium\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003ePolemoniaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eNew York to Minnesota, south to Georgia and Arkansas\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003edeciduous woodland - moist, humus-y, open canopy, also stream banks (think cool, damp, dappled shade edges)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore:\u003c\/b\u003e Early season nectar for pollinators, spring ephemeral - however, foliage will persist for longer if not too dry and sunny, will self sow, juglone tolerant and deer resistant. Lovely in a mixed woodland planting in which it takes a summer rest and its neighbors give it shelter while it snoozes. The root has been used medicinally. The flowers are pretty in smaller posies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644208681267,"sku":"","price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankPoleRept2.jpg?v=1745456345"},{"product_id":"polystichum-acrostichoides","title":"Polystichum acrostichoides - Christams Fern","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-9, 24\" x 18\", part to full shade, an evergreen fern with leathery leaves, wants a cool, moist, acidic, well-drained soil. Does not do well in clay or tolerate standing water or too much sun. I do think it may be more drought tolerant than stated, however. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eChristmas Fern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eDryopteridaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eNova Scotia to southeast Minnesota, and south to central Florida, east Texas, and Mexico. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003erocky woods with fertile soil, moist edges such as stream banks, or near, but not in, low damp places.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThis is a clump-forming fern that will play well with other shade lovers in a mixed border with moist, woodland soil. The root has been used medicinally, but is also potentially toxic, so proceed with caution. Cut fronds look good in bouquets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFerns are common in Maine and I often hear \"there are plenty of ferns in the woods; I don't need ferns\". It's one of those things, like wild strawberry or native violet, if you are rich in them you might consider them commonplace or even weedy. Why have ferns in your shady beds? Well, besides the fact that they are millions of years old, they offer important structural ecosystem services. They offer that cool, sheltered understory that so many of our small creatures like salamanders, toads, chipmunks, and mice, as well as insect and insect larvae, need. Cover from predators and moist, cool respite, living mulch, beautiful forms, ancient heritage. All good reasons to introduce more ferns...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644210090291,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Polystichum_acrostichoides__Jenkins_Arboretum.jpg?v=1745259688"},{"product_id":"solidago-flexicaulis","title":"Solidago flexicaulis - Zig Zag Goldenrod","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, 12-36\" x 12-24\", sun to part shade, yellow flowers bloom up the stems at each leaf axil in mid summer to early fall. Drought tolerant once established. Likes a nutritious woodland soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eZig Zag Goldenrod, Axillary Goldenrod, Broadleaf Goldenrod\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eAsteraceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eThe native distribution is Quebec and Nova Scotia south to eastern North Dakota, down into Georgia, Arkansas, and northeast Kansas. It occurs in mountainous regions, especially in the southern part of its range. It is native to all New England states including Maine and these plants were grown from seed collected in New England.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003esandy stream banks, rich deciduous woods and dappled sun\/shade slopes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eZigzag goldenrod does best in dappled shade but can grow in full shade. It spreads by rhizome and seed and can vary considerably in height. I think it would do well in combination with Bigl eaf Aster, White Woodland Aster and Silverrod. Has been used medicinally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGoldenrods are keystone species in our region and offer excellent late-season forage for pollinators as well as being host plants for many insect larvae\u003cstrong\u003e*\u003c\/strong\u003e. There are many different forms of goldenrods that can grow in various conditions. To know them is to love them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGoldenrods have gotten bad publicity for causing allergies, however, they do not. The wind-pollinated ragweeds (Ambrosia species) that bloom at the same time, but are much less showy, are the cause of hay fever. Goldenrod pollen is large and sticky in order to adhere to visiting insects and therefore cannot become airborne.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e*\u003c\/strong\u003eHere is a very general list of the insects that utilize our beautiful goldenrods: Butterflies, Moths, Beetles, Carpenter bees, Sweat bees, Plasterer bees, (The North Carolina Extension Gardeners Plant Toolbox has an extensive list of Goldenrod-supported specialized bees. Check it out!), Sphecid wasps, Vespid wasps, Tachnid flies, Flesh flies, Blow flies, Muscid flies, the Gall-formers such as \u003cem\u003eEpiblema scudderiana\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eAsteromyia carbonifera\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eGnorimoschema gallae solidaginis\u003c\/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003eProcecidochares atra\u003c\/em\u003e, all of which are native to Maine (such an interesting group - look for the galls in the late fall and early winter when they are easy to spot on the dried up stems).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum Nursery, grown from seed collected in New England\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens; illustration from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644240138547,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankSolidFlexFlowers.jpg?v=1745457052"},{"product_id":"thalictrum-dioicum","title":"Thalictrum dioicum - Early Meadow Rue","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP quart,\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eComing later in 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, 12-36\" x 12\", dappled sun to part shade, male flowers are greenish-white with yellow stamens, female flowers are greenish-white with purple pistils, both are very pretty and bloom in late spring to early summer, prefers dry to medium moisture, not too picky as to soil type and will require more moisture in the brightest conditions, adaptable to drier shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eEarly Meadow Rue, Quicksilver-weed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eRanunculaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eNew Brunswick, southwest Quebec, southern Ontario, to Minnesota and south to Arkansas, Georgia, and Alabama, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003edamp meadow, streamside, lightly shaded woodland\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThis plant is dioecious and wind-pollinated. \u003cem\u003eDioicum\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003edioecious\u003c\/em\u003e derive from the Greek meaning \"two households\". Both male and female plants are needed to set viable seed. Good to plant with bulbs and spring ephemerals as the foliage is attractive and persistent and will hide the gaps left by summer dormant species. Larval host for the Pink-tinted Beauty, \u003cem\u003eEosphoropteryx thyatyroides, \u003c\/em\u003ewhich is native to Maine. Has been used medicinally. Deer resistant. Cut flower? Good companions are \u003cem\u003eAsarum canadense\u003c\/em\u003e, Wild Ginger, \u003cem\u003eCarex plantaginea\u003c\/em\u003e, Plantain-leaved Sedge, and the woodland asters. Also good for a shady rock garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plugs from Pizzo Native Plant Nursery, grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens, male flowers pictured 1st, female flowers pictured 2nd\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644282114355,"sku":"","price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankThalDioMale.jpg?v=1745457446"},{"product_id":"thalictrum-pubescens","title":"Thalictrum pubescens - Tall Meadow Rue","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, 36-84\" x 24-36\", dappled sun or light shade to full shade, starry white flowers on a tall stalk in summer, really needs consistent moisture to wet soils in order to grow well. It can grow in a lot of sun in the wettest conditions in a climate with cooler summers, but really prefers a bit of shade, especially in the afternoon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eKing-of-the-Meadow, Tall Meadow Rue\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSynonym: \u003c\/b\u003eThalictrum polygamum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eRanunculaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003emost of eastern Canada and eastern United States except Florida, native to Maine. These plants were grown from seed collected in New England.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003erich woodlands and other moist, low places with some shade, also found in wetter spots such as marshes, stream and river banks, swamps, and pond edges\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThe flowers of \u003cem\u003eT. pubescens \u003c\/em\u003eare attractive to a variety of pollinators. Mostly dioecious, but sometimes male and female flowers occur on the same plant. The lacy blue-green foliage is very pretty. The plant provides cover for small mammals, amphibians, and birds. Larval host for, (among others), the Canadian Owlet Moth, \u003cem\u003eCalyptra canadensis\u003c\/em\u003e, the Straight-lined Looper, \u003cem\u003ePseudeva purpurigera,\u003c\/em\u003e the Pink-patched Looper, \u003cem\u003eEosphoropteryx thyatroides\u003c\/em\u003e, and the Hitched Arches, \u003cem\u003eMelanchra adjuncta\u003c\/em\u003e, all native to Maine. Will self-sow if happy with the situation. Has been used medicinally. The leaves have been used to flavor fish. I will be testing it out as a cut flower and foliage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSources: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum Nursery; illustration from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644294664499,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/Thalictrum-pubescens-1.jpg?v=1748910174"},{"product_id":"uvularia-grandiflora","title":"Uvularia grandiflora - Large-flowered Bellwort","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 3-9, 1-2' x 12\", partial to full, deciduous shade, cheerful yellow, nodding, elongated bells in mid-late spring over fresh green foliage, prefers a moist, humus-rich woodland soil, and maybe on the lime-y side. Drought tolerant once established. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large-flowered Bellwort, Merrybells, Yellow Bellwort\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Colchicaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe species is found from Quebec and Vermont south to Georgia and Oklahoma and west to Minnesota. Native to western parts of New England but not Maine.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003eOccurs in deciduous woodland, open shade, and wooded floodplain (water that moves through seasonally, not standing). Go Botany says it occurs in regions with high pH bedrock, but other sources conflict.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a somewhat lax, but quite elegant, slowly spreading woodlander. Rhizomatous, and can take some drought, but will go summer dormant if it is too dry. Bumblebees, halictid bees, mason bees, and adrenid bees enjoy the nectar and pollen. Ants are attracted to the nutrient-rich elaiosome attached to the seed and will replant the seed while harvesting it for the elaiosome. According to some, makes a good cut flower. Beautiful in a woodland garden along with ferns, Solomons Seals, Epimediums, Erythroniums and their ilk. Also good in a rock garden with enough moisture and shade. Deer may browse. This plant has been used medicinally (Potawatomi).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644307804467,"sku":"","price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Uvularia_grandiflora_individual.jpg?v=1745320985"},{"product_id":"woodsia-obtusa","title":"Woodsia obtusa - Blunt-lobed Cliff Fern","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-8, 12\" x 12-36\", part to full shade, spreads slowly by rhizomes, wants well-drained, calcareous to neutral soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eBlunt-lobed Cliff Fern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eWoodsiaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003enative to Maine, but infrequent in New England due to its preference for a lime-y soil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003ecliffs, rocky sloping, well-drained\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eRock garden, woodland garden...More information coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhy grow ferns besides your admiration for a plant that has been present on Earth for over 360 billion years? Ferns support wildlife by creating protective cover and shady, moist micro-habitats, in particular for small mammals and invertebrates. The fuzzy covering on emerging croziers is used by birds for nesting material. Ferns help prevent erosion and filter run-off. For the gardener they offer the gifts of graceful architecture and low-maintenance textural beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eJakhouse via Creative Commons through North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644373373235,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/NCExtToolWoodsiaobtusaJaknouse.jpg?v=1748169453"},{"product_id":"zizia-aurea","title":"Zizia aurea - Golden Alexanders","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eHPP #1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, 24-36\" x 12-24\", full sun to light shade, The umbel of yellow florets blooms in late spring to early summer, adaptable as to soil moisture except extreme wet or dry, and somewhat drought tolerant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eGolden Alexanders\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eApiaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eThe native distribution is Quebec to Saskatchewan down into parts of Montana and south to New England, Florida, and Texas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eopen woods, moist prairies, and thickets\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cem\u003eZizia aurea\u003c\/em\u003e has been used medicinally. However, it is also potentially toxic, so proceed with caution. This is a host plant for the Black Swallowtail butterfly, \u003cem\u003ePapilio polyxenes asterius\u003c\/em\u003e. The females of the mining bee \u003cem\u003eAndrena ziziae\u003c\/em\u003e, which is native to Maine, only eat Zizia aurea pollen. This is one of the first plants to wake up on the nursery benches in the spring, which means it's one tough cookie, but it takes awhile to settle into the garden. It is a good source of nectar for short-tongued insects in particular. In your drier spots you are better off trying \u003cem\u003eZizia aptera\u003c\/em\u003e, a North American relative that is not native to Maine. Lovely cut flower and will self-sow if happy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eseed grown by\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants with seed from Toadshade Nursery, or up-potted landscape plugs from North Creek Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eclose up of flower head Frank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens; also Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50644375142707,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankZizAurea.jpg?v=1745457816"},{"product_id":"carex-rosea","title":"Carex rosea - Rosy Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eHPP quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics:\u003c\/b\u003e zones 3-9, 12\" x 12\", part sun to full shade, the bloom is a very cute, green, star-like spikelet in mid to late spring, medium wet to dry soils, but drought tolerant especially in shade. In brighter light it will not fare well unless the soil is consistently moist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eRosy Sedge, Curly-styled Wood Sedge, Golden Star Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily:\u003c\/b\u003e Cyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/b\u003e central and eastern North America, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/b\u003e C. rosea's happy places are bright shade or part sun at a woodland edge, bottomland, shoreline of ponds or streams, and dry to moist deciduous woods, under oaks in particular.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cover for small mammals, amphibians, and ground-nesting birds. Sedges offer lovely grass-like textures in a matrix with other low-growing shade perennials and are deer and rabbit tolerant. Cut back in late winter before new growth begins. Carex rosea is closely related to Carex radiata and both often grow in association with oaks. Although Carex rosea is more often found on drier sites with Quercus alba, Q. rubra, or Q. macrocarpa and Carex radiata favors wetter sites and Quercus bicolor, they are also often found growing together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit tolerant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plugs from North Creek, grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Frank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50779621949747,"sku":"","price":9.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankCarexRosea.jpg?v=1745442912"},{"product_id":"dryopteris-marginalis","title":"Dryopteris marginalis - Marginal Wood Fern","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics:\u003c\/b\u003e zone 4-9, 15-24\" x 30\", part to full shade, moderately acid to neutral damp woodland soils, but drought resistant once established.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eMarginal Wood Fern, Eastern Leather Wood Fern, Marginal Shield Fern, Eastern Wood Fern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily:\u003c\/b\u003e Dryopteridaceae (Polypodiaceae)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution:\u003c\/b\u003e widely distributed in eastern North America, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/b\u003e stream edges, roadside ditches, rocky woodland slopes, in particular north-facing, old walls, talus slopes, woodland edge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore:\u003c\/b\u003e Why grow ferns besides your admiration for a plant that has been present on Earth for over 360 billion years? Ferns support wildlife by creating protective cover and shady, moist micro-habitats for small mammals, toads, salamanders, and numerous insects. The fuzzy covering on emerging croziers is used by birds for nesting material. Ferns help prevent erosion and filter run-off. For the gardener they offer the gifts of graceful architecture and low-maintenance, textural beauty. They are also rabbit, deer, and juglone resistant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDryopteris marginalis is good in a shady matrix of low-growing perennials and it will spread slowly to form a ground cover. It wants protection from wind. Has been used medicinally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Van Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/strong\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50779628437811,"sku":"","price":15.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-DryopterisMarginalis.jpg?v=1745236892"},{"product_id":"gillenia-trifoliata","title":"Gillenia trifoliata - Bowman's Root","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eHPP quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-8, 24-36\" x 18-30\", part sun to part shade, delicate, star shaped flowers on reddish stems in mid to late summer, low to medium water needs and acid to neutral well-drained, but nutritive rocky soils, however, quite adaptable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSynonym: \u003c\/b\u003ePorteranthus trifoliatus\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eBowman's Root, Indian Physic, Ipecac, Mountain Indian-Physic\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eRosaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003esouthern Ontario south to Delaware and Georgia and west to Kentucky, Arkansas, and Louisiana. This plant is naturalizing in Massachusetts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003edry to moist upland woods and rocky banks, mostly mountainous\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThere is absolutely no reason not to grow this plant. The flowers are delicate and ethereal and bring joy to pollinators and gardeners alike. The foliage turns lovely shades of red and orange in the fall. It has a long history of use as a medicinal plant, but constituent components can also be toxic at high dose, so proceed with caution. G. trifoliata is slow to mature, but a very attractive woodlander that enjoys a fertile soil and some moisture to thrive, yet isn't partial to wet feet. A sweet bouquet detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eLandscape plugs from North Creek\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eJelitto Staudensamen GmbH\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784303087923,"sku":"","price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/JelittoPorterTrifoliata.jpg?v=1747649765"},{"product_id":"lysimachia-lanceolata-var-purpurea","title":"Lysimachia lanceolata var. purpurea - Lance-leaved Loosestrife selection","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e Sizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eHPP #1 (two plants per pot)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-9, 12-24\" x 18\", full sun to part sun, to high, dappled shade, charming, dainty yellow blooms above lacy, green and reddish-bronze foliage in early summer and then intermittently into early fall, wet to moist to average soils, adaptable as to soil type.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eLance-leaved Loosestrife selection\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003ePrimulaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eeastern and central North America\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a naturally occurring selection of the species and frankly, should be included in the Maine native plants category. However, there is so much misunderstanding (confusion sometimes bordering on panic) as to selections, cultivars, hybrids, seed-grown, local ecotype, landrace, clone, etcetera (blog posts hopefully coming this winter), that I am relegating it to non-native status. This is an excellent plant either way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003ewoodland edges, moist slopes in deciduous woods with high, light shade, also consistently moist areas in full sun\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eSome Lysimachia species produce floral oil, not nectar, and are used by the oil-collecting bees in the genus Macropis. \u003cem\u003eLysimachia lanceolata var. purpurea \u003c\/em\u003eis one of these oil producers. The two species of oil-collecting bee, \u003cem\u003eMacropis nuda\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eMacropis patellata\u003c\/em\u003e occur in Maine. These tiny bees line their nests with the fragrant oil from Lysimachia flowers and use it to feed their larvae. And that's not all! These bees are parasitized by the Macropis Cuckoo Bee, \u003cem\u003eEpioloides pilosulus\u003c\/em\u003e, which is also native to Maine. We don't need to go into gory detail right now, but it's a tough world out there, so buck up and help the food chain in all its disturbing, messy glory. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs far as for the joy of the gardener, this is a plant you always want to invite to the party. It creates a lovely, airy living mulch, is tolerant of various conditions, and in order to help out our oil-collecting bees, and their parasitizers, you need to plant a large patch. It also makes a pretty addition to smaller bouquets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plugs from North Creek, grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eHoney Petal Plants, a young plant already happily blooming away. Check out that foliage!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784331333939,"sku":"","price":5.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/AMBLysimachialanceolata_b4e64e58-ef6a-4cb3-a12f-d919d3487973.jpg?v=1745508002"},{"product_id":"mertensia-virginica","title":"Mertensia virginica - Virginia Bluebells","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/b\u003e one quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-9, 1.5-2' x 1-1.5', deciduous part to full shade, dangling bells of light blue with a pale purple tinge on a curved stem. The buds start pink and change to blue. Blooms in mid to late spring and then goes dormant, prefers moist to mesic (medium), nutritious woodland soils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eVirginia Bluebells, Virginia Cowslip, Lungwort Oyster Leaf, Roanoke Bells\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eBoraginaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003enorth-central and eastern North America, introduced in New England, but not native there\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003edeciduous woodland, rich and moist woods, low wooded hillsides, also floodplains and various disturbed habitats\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eA\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003epotential early season nectar source as well as an early season joy for the gardener. Rabbit and juglone tolerant, has been used medicinally, and is apparently edible, including the flower. Long-lived, gradual colonizer that is summer dormant, so plant amongst shady characters that wake up later or in a part of the woods you don't mind there being a springtime party and then a good long rest.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens; also Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784351060275,"sku":"","price":14.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankMertVirg.jpg?v=1745455172"},{"product_id":"onoclea-sensibilis-1","title":"Onoclea sensibilis - Sensitive Fern","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-8, 12-48\" x 12-36\", part sun to full shade, moist and acidic soils but adaptable to some dryness in shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eSensitive Fern, Bead Fern, Sympathy Fern\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eOnocleaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003ecentral and eastern North America as well as eastern Asia, China, and parts of Russia. Native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003ewoodland thickets, low places, consistent wet meadow edges, stream and river banks, roadside ditches, open swamps and bogs\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eAll ferns provide much needed cool, shady cover for toads, frogs, salamanders, and small mammals. Deer will use this fern as bedding, The fertile fronds persist through the winter. Turkeys eat these fronds and flower-arrangers will enjoy using them in bouquets. The fiddleheads are beautiful emerging in the spring. Sensitive Fern is rhizomatous and a strong spreader. It needs consistent moisture, especially in sunny positions and when supplied that can take quite a bit of sun. Has been used medicinally and is edible when cooked as a vegetable. It MUST be cooked. This plant is toxic if consumed raw. Proceed with knowledge, please. Onoclea sensibilis has been used medicinally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLarval Host for the Silver-spotted Fern Moth, \u003cem\u003eCallopistria cordata,\u003c\/em\u003e and the Sensitive Fern Borer Moth, \u003cem\u003ePapaipema inquaesita\u003c\/em\u003e, both of which are native to Maine. Fern aphids, fern miners, and sawfly larvae feed on various parts of the plant (they gotta eat, too you know). The Royal Horticultural Society even likes it and has given it an Award of Garden Merit. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe Wikipedia entry is fascinating and touches upon further information regarding parasitic fungi, bacteria, and mycorrhizal associations. Check it out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eVan Berkum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eoverall form courtesy Hornet Photography; fern with fertile frond prior to darkening courtesy of C.T. Johansson; leaf and frond, courtesy Fredlyfish - all via Creative Commons through the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784363479347,"sku":"","price":16.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/NCExtOnocleaSensHornetPhotography.jpg?v=1747761871"},{"product_id":"packera-aurea","title":"Packera aurea - Golden Groundsel","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available:\u003c\/b\u003e Landscape plug, 6.00 ea or 10 for 48.00, mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, 12-24\" x 12\", sun to part shade, more shade tolerant than other Packera species, yellow umbel in mid to late spring, held high above the foliage, very adaptable as to soil and moisture. Perhaps it's ideal spot is a mesic to moist to even wet site in fertile acid soils, but on my property it is doing great on a well-drained, slightly sloping woodland edge (see image)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSynonym: \u003c\/b\u003eSenecio aureus\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eGolden Groundsel, Golden Ragwort, Life Root, Uncum Root, False Valerian, Cough Weed, Cocash Weed, Staggerwort, St. James Weed, Female Regulator, Butterweed, Squaw-weed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eAsteracae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eeastern North America from Quebec to Georgia and west to Minnesota and Louisiana, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003emeadows, boggy swales, low moist deciduous woods, riparian areas, pond or stream edge, ditch. However, see above comments in the \"Basics\" section.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThis is an underutilized and easy-going native plant. It interweaves well with other plants in many types of setting and makes a good ground cover. The perky yellow flower stalks can be removed after flowering (and setting seed!) right back to the leaves, which are ground-hugging and add much to the living mulch layer of our understory. The leaves and roots have been used medicinally, however, many ragworts also contain toxic alkaloids, so proceed with caution. Potential replacement for non-native vinca or pachysandra.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e landscape plugs from Kind Earth Growers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eHoney Petal Plants, in situ at the edge of a shady path in my garden\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784379830579,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Packera_aurea__2024-04-30__Kane_Woods__02.jpg?v=1745255294"},{"product_id":"phlox-divaricata-may-breeze","title":"Phlox divaricata 'May Breeze' - Woodland Phlox cultivar","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-8, 8-12\" x 12-18\", part shade to full sun (with enough moisture), the flower is a very pale bluish white in late spring. The flowers are held above the foliage on a wiry stem, enjoys relatively moist woodland soils, but is drought tolerant after blooming (as are many spring-blooming woodlanders)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eWoodland Phlox\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003ePolemoniaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003e'May Breeze' is an introduction from the Netherlands. The species is native to eastern North America, but not Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003emoist, deciduous woodlands\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003e'May Breeze' is a good grower and lights up the shade with its charming bloom. It has a gentle fragrance and is a long-lasting addition to a posey-sized bouquet. Works well with spring bulbs and as part of a shady, low-growing matrix or underplanting for larger shade perennials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plugs from North Creek, grown on by Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eHoney Petal Plants, young potted plant blooming on the nursery\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784512016691,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/AMBPhloxdivMayBreeze.jpg?v=1748436424"},{"product_id":"alnus-incana-subsp-rugosa","title":"Alnus incana - Speckled Alder","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezone 2-6, sun to part shade, 10-40 feet high, flowers prior to leafing out in early spring, catkins and then cones, both male and female flowers on the same plant, tolerant as to soil type, nitrogen fixer, prefers wet-consistent moisture, but can adapt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSynonym: \u003c\/b\u003eAlnus rugosa, A. incana subsp. rugosa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eSpeckled Alder, Gray Alder, Tag Alder, Hoary Alder, Hazel Alder, Swamp Alder, River Alder, Thin-leafed Alder\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eBetulaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003ecooler northern hemisphere, Maine native\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eSunny wetlands: bogs, streams, borders of low-lying land, swamps. Most vigorous in full sun but can dominate an understory as well. Gaps created in wetland forests are quickly colonized. Often associated with Black Spruce (Picea mariana).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eBeaver use speckled alder for dam and lodge construction. Alder thickets provide cover for birds and mammals. The seeds, buds, and catkins are eaten by birds including goldfinches, woodcock and grouse, and the young growth is browsed by moose, muskrats, beavers, and rabbits. Alder is a handsome native shrub and lends itself well as a structural element in large flower arrangements. It also has medicinal properties. Because of its fast growing nature it is useful for both erosion control and site rehabilitation. Speckled Alder is a nitrogen-fixing plant and therefore helpful for soil remediation on degraded sites. Yields of timber-producing stands are enhanced when grown with alders. This plant is monoecious and both the male and female catkins are decorative. Thicket-forming, but can be pruned. This plant can be used as livestock forage, kindling, smoking meat and fish. Has medicinal properties. Can hybridize with Alnus serrulata\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e whips from Cold Stream Farm, 2025\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784822133043,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Alnus_incana_rugosa_illustr.png?v=1745177891"},{"product_id":"amelanchier-arborea","title":"Amelanchier arborea - Downy Serviceberry","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eHPP #1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-9, full sun to part shade, 15-25' x 15-25', white bloom March-April, medium water needs to dry, prefers well-drained, acidic soil. Clay tolerant, but does not like limey soils. Can grow in quite a bit of shade but will bloom less. More drought tolerant than \u003cem\u003eA. canadensis \u003c\/em\u003eand \u003cem\u003eA. laevis\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eDowny Serviceberry, Downy Shadbush, Junebush, Juneberry, Shadberry, Service-tree, Shadblow, Sarvis-berry\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eRosaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eFound throughout eastern North America; native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eWoodland edge, open and rocky woods, ridges, and ledges\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eAmelanchiers are keystone shrubs or multi-stemmed trees and have high ecological value for numerous species of insects and animals. The fragrant flowers are an early pollen and nectar source. Squirrels, rabbits, deer, moose, mice, voles, fox, and black bear are some of the mammals supported by Amelanchiers. Birds supported include Cedar Waxwings, grouse, and woodpeckers. The berries, which develop in early summer and are called Juneberries, are food for over 40 species of birds and mammals, including humans who have used the berries in pies, jams, and wine-making, although the flavor and juice content of the berries can vary from tree to tree. The wood is hard and has been used for tool handles. Attractive fall color, Will sucker but can be pruned to a single stem. To learn more about Amelanchiers see the entry for \u003cem\u003eAmelanchier canadensis\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAmelanchier arborea \u003c\/em\u003eis a preferred larval host for the invasive Gypsy Moth caterpillar (now called Spongy Moth), \u003cem\u003eLymantria dispar. \u003c\/em\u003eIt is distinguishable from \u003cem\u003eAmelanchier laevis \u003c\/em\u003ebecause of the soft down on the undersides of new leaves (hence the common name, Downy Serviceberry).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven More: \u003c\/strong\u003eNaturally occurring and fertile crosses between \u003cem\u003eAmelanchier arborea \u003c\/em\u003eand \u003cem\u003eA. laevis \u003c\/em\u003eresult in \u003cem\u003eA. x grandiflora\u003c\/em\u003e. These crosses have been commercially developed into numerous cultivars including 'Autumn Brilliance', 'Ballerina', 'Forest Pride', 'Princess Diana' and 'Robin Hill'. they have been developed for hybrid vigor, larger berries, specific form, and\/or fall color.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003ewhips from Cold Stream Farm, 2025\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784824525107,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Downy_Serviceberry__Amelanchier_arborea___1add72f6-155d-451f-6794-ca13ce1c1c6e.jpg?v=1745179393"},{"product_id":"swida-racemosa","title":"Swida racemosa","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, 3-10' (possibly taller) x 3-10', full sun to part shade, white flowers bloom on red pedicels in late spring to early summer. The flowers ripen into white berries (drupes) from late summer into fall, prefers soils that are wet to average moisture, but is very adaptable to both drought and shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eGray Dogwood, Northern Swamp Dogwood, Panicled Dogwood, Grey-stemmed Dogwood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSynonyms: \u003c\/b\u003eCornus racemosa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eCornaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eThis shrub is widespread in southeastern Canada and the northeastern United States. Native to Maine. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eFound in both upland and lowland forests (thin-canopied) and although has the common name Swamp Dogwood is adaptable depending on light. It is also found in man-made and disturbed habitats, flood plains, meadows, field edges and on roadsides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eProvides both pollen and nectar and is a larval host (more specifics to follow). The high fat, nutritious fruit is enjoyed by birds and mammals. Offers cover and nest sites. Has been used medicinally and as a part of smoking mixtures. Has reddish-purple fall foliage. Will form a thicket if happy, so good for erosion control and windbreaks. Is salt tolerant. More information coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eWhips from Cold Stream Farm, potted on at Honey Petal Plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eFrank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784828817715,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/FrankSwidaRacemosaFlower.jpg?v=1745457234"},{"product_id":"corylus-americana","title":"Corylus americana - American Hazelnut","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eTBD, update coming soon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 4-9. full sun to part sun to high, light shade - less light, less fruit and a more open canopy, 8-16' x 10-15' (crown at maturity), male bloom is brown and female bloom is red - these occur on the same plant, blooms early to mid spring, nuts mature in the fall, likes well-drained loam, adaptable as to pH, medium water needs, clay tolerant, some drought tolerance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eAmerican Hazelnut, American Hazel, American Filbert\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eBetulaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eOccurs in the eastern and central U.S. and very southeastern and central Canada from southern Maine west to Saskatchewan, as far south as Georgia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eFound in both moist and dry thickets, woodland margin, open woodlands and upland forests, rocky hillsides and prairies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThe inner bark and twig hairs have been used medicinally. Edible, dye, fiber - more information coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003esmall whips from Cold Stream Farm grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credit: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784830292275,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-A_guide_to_the_trees__Page_182___8434866721.jpg?v=1745233494"},{"product_id":"hamamelis-virginiana","title":"Hamamelis virginiana - Witch Hazel","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eHPP quart, coming in 2026\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-8, 15-20' x 15-20', full sun to part shade, best flowering is in full sun, but will struggle there without enough moisture, yellow blooms in late fall usually after leaf drop, likes a moist but well-drained, rich, acidic soil, but is adaptable to both shadier and drier sites. Tolerates clay and can take occasional flooding. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eWitch Hazel, Common Witch-hazel, American Witch-hazel, Beadwood, Winterbloom, Snapping Hazelnut, Tobacco-wood, Water-witch, Wicke (Middle English for \"lively\") Hazel - also Striped or Spotted Alder. Common names can be confusing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eHamamelidaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eNova Scotia south to central Florida, east to Texas and north to Minnesota. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eFound in mixed hardwood understory, woodland edge and openings, stream banks, and moist thickets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eThe bark and leaves have been used medicinally. Extracts, distillates, ointments, and eye washes are currently available as over-the-counter remedies. Leaves and twigs are used to make tea. The crotched branches are used to locate underground water or buried treasure. I think the foliage has potential in spring bouquets and perhaps the flowering branches in fall. More information coming soon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003esmall whips from\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003eCold Stream Farm grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784830619955,"sku":"","price":11.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-20150318Hamamelis_virginiana3.jpg?v=1747569729"},{"product_id":"parthenocissus-quinquefolia","title":"Parthenocissus quinquefolia - Virginia Creeper","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003eTrue Gallon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-10, potentially 30-50' x 5-10' (can be pruned), full sun to part shade (perhaps even more shade), inconspicuous, greenish flowers bloom in spring and develop into dark blue fruits, leaves turn red shades in autumn, especially in sunnier spots, adaptable and tolerant of many conditions except standing water. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eVirginia Creeper, Woodbine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eVitaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eQuebec and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas and Minnesota, also further south into Mexico, native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eChaparral, brush, and thicket, open or shaded woodlands, stream or river edge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eIf you have room, or are inclined toward pruning things, please add this to your garden. The berries of Virginia Creeper are eaten by Chickadees, Nut Hatches, Mockingbirds, Cat Birds, Finches, Fly Catchers, Tanagers, Swallows, Vireos, Warblers, Woodpeckers, and Thrushes as well as small mammals. It is a larval host for the Abbott's Sphinx Moth, \u003cem\u003eSphecodina abbottii\u003c\/em\u003e, the Pandora Sphinx Moth, \u003cem\u003eEumorpha pandora\u003c\/em\u003e, and the Virginia Creeper Sphinx Moth, \u003cem\u003eDalapsa myron\u003c\/em\u003e, all of which are native to Maine. The nectar from the tiny flowers attracts bees. Provides shelter for numerous creatures. Salt and juglone tolerant, moderate resistance to herbivores (really, they are just helping you keep it pruned), can climb, trail or scramble and has adhesive tips, not penetrating rootlets, so although a very strong grower, is not damaging the trees it grows up or the ground it drapes over. Beautiful scrambling over a rocky bank. Good for erosion control, lovely autumn colors. The berries are toxic to humans and this plant may cause contact dermatitis in some people. However, the berries have also been used to dye feathers and as a ceremonial paint for the skin. The twigs, vines, and bark have been used medicinally so proceed with caution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003eHoney Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wikimedia Commons, an example of the growth habit and fall color\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784845791539,"sku":"","price":20.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Parthenocissus_quinquefolia__Sweden.jpg?v=1745256056"},{"product_id":"prunus-serotina","title":"Prunus serotina - Black Cherry","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e#1 (Trade gallon)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-9, 25-100' x 45-75' crown at maturity (however, fruit production starts at about 10 years and reaches peak at about thirty), sun to part shade, blooms in spring directly after leaf emergence, numerous small white flowers on panicles ripen to reddish-black drupes (fruit) in late summer to fall, likes slightly acidic, medium moist, well-drained soils. Tolerant of lean soils. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eBlack Cherry, Wild Black Cherry, Rum Cherry, Mountain Black Cherry\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eRosaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eThis is a very widespread species and occurs in southeastern Canada down to large parts of north and south (where it is considered invasive) America. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eThis is a pioneer species on disturbed site, old field, roadsides, forest margins, moist or dry open woods, flood plains, and riparian slopes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eVery high ecological value. Feeds over thirty bird species and many mammals. A larval host for over 400 species of butterfly and moth. Has been used medicinally, however, the bark, leaves, and seeds contain a glucoside called prunasin that upon digestion converts to the extremely toxic compound hydrocyanic acid, so proceed with caution under the guidance of an experienced herbalist. Fruit eaten fresh or dried (do NOT eat the seeds) and used to flavor syrups and rum. Deer browse this plant, but the leaves can be toxic to mammals if eaten in quantity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003esmall whips from Cold Stream Farm grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eillustration from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784846446899,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-A_guide_to_the_trees__Page_266___8435977590.jpg?v=1745260191"},{"product_id":"tilia-americana","title":"Tilia americana - American Linden","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/b\u003e6-12\" bare root whips coming in Spring, 2026, available for pre-order\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 2-8, can get 100' tall at maturity with a trunk diameter of 3-5' and a canopy that can be 30-60' wide, full sun to part shade, needs 14.5 hours of daylight in order to bloom (late spring to early summer). The flower is fragrant, small, and yellowish-white. Nutlets form late in the season. The tree leafs out prior to bloom. Likes a medium moist, deep, fertile, well-drained loam, but is somewhat drought tolerant once established. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eAmerican Linden, American Basswood, Bee Tree, Lime Tree, White Basswood, White Wood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eMalvaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eOccurs in eastern and central North America including all of New England. There is also a disjunct population in Texas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eOften occurs in mountainous regions in the warmer parts of its range. It is present in a variety of habitats, both dry uplands and low, moist woodlands. It often grows in association with Sugar Maples. According to Go Botany in Maine it is found mostly in river and stream flood plains and forests. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center says it is found in \"upland, deciduous woods, north and east slopes of mesic ravines\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003eI love this tree and have a lot to write about it, so a longer entry will be coming soon. Meanwhile, here are a few details. It is a fast growing tree and can live for up to 200 years. It definitely needs to be protected from herbivory in its youth. It is often planted as a street tree which is a testament to its adaptability. The inner bark has been used as a basketry material. The nectar is prized for honey. The leaves and flowers are edible. The wood has many uses. Has also been used medicinally, but over-use is potentially toxic, so proceed with caution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003ewhips from Cold Stream Farm - available for pre-order, but will also be up-potted and grown on to a larger size at Honey Petal Plants and sold at a later date\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eWikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784889241907,"sku":"","price":7.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Tilia_americana__Arnold_Arboretum_-_IMG_5911.jpg?v=1745320531"},{"product_id":"vitis-riparia","title":"Vitis riparia - River Grape","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e6-12\" bare root whips, coming in spring, 2026, pre-orders welcome\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBasics: \u003c\/b\u003ezones 3-9, can grow up to 75', but more often half that and takes well to pruning, sun to part shade, sweetly scented panicle of yellowish-green flowers in spring, ripens to bluish-black fruit from late summer into fall, tolerant as to soil texture and pH, does prefer consistent moisture, but has some drought tolerance\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/b\u003eRiver Grape, Wild Grape, Riverbank Grape, Frost Grape\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily: \u003c\/b\u003eVitaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/b\u003eOccurs from central to eastern Canada, south in all eastern states into Mexico. This plant has been introduced in parts of Europe as well as Washington state. Native to Maine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/b\u003eFound on disturbed woodlands - both upland and lowland, thickets, river banks, waste places, and railroad beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMore: \u003c\/b\u003ePollinated by various bees. Used for food and cover by birds and small mammals. The fruit is edible fresh or dried and has been used to make jelly and wine. Frost sweetens the grapes. Because of its adaptability, disease resistance, and cold tolerance it is used in wine-grape breeding programs and is also used as a rootstock for \u003cem\u003eVitis vinifera\u003c\/em\u003e. The trunk of an old vine can be up to 8\" in diameter. Fall leaf color is yellow and the bark is reddish-brown and exfoliating. Can shade out smaller trees and shrubs, so site accordingly. It climbs by tendrils and can be controlled by pruning. Salt and drought tolerant. Fruits best in full sun. According to Go Botany \"Many insects feed on the leaves, stems, and roots.\" Can be used in flower arranging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSource: \u003c\/b\u003esmall roots are from Cold Stream Farm and will be grown on to larger plants at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/b\u003eLeaves and fruit - BotBin via Creative Commons; later season fruit and vines by NadiaTalent via Creative Commons, both images courtesy of North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50784929022259,"sku":"","price":7.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/NCExtToolVitisripLvsBotBin.jpg?v=1748169917"},{"product_id":"carex-albicans","title":"Carex albicans - Whitetinge Sedge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003eLandscape plug, 6.00 each or 10 for 48.00, mix and match okay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics:\u003c\/strong\u003e zones 4-8, 1-1.5' x 1-1.5', part to full shade, tiny blooms in mid-late spring, likes medium to dry soils, not picky as to soil type, very adaptable and drought tolerant once established\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon names: \u003c\/strong\u003eWhitetinge Sedge, White-tinged Sedge\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003eCyperaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distrubution: \u003c\/strong\u003eeastern North America from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and Texas. Native to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003edry woodlands and forests, shady ledges, partially shaded ridge tops, can be found in association with oak, maple, or beech\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carex albican's fruits are disbursed by ants. Sedge species provided cover, habitat, and shade to invertebrates, small mammals, and ground-nesting birds. They are unbeatable ground cover in almost any garden setting and are deer and rabbit resistant. The Mt Cuba sedge trials gave C. albicans high points for its \"flowy tussocks\". Cut back in early spring, not an aggressive seeder.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEven more: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf I could talk more gardeners into filling their spaces with Carex species, I would consider my life well lived. They are an excellent ground cover layer and there are species for every conceivable light and moisture condition. Some of them also make good lawn alternatives. They can be planted under trees, shrubs, and taller herbaceous layers, acting as living mulch, retaining moisture and suppressing weeds and looking good doing it. They offer top notch habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and invertebrates, and acting as larval hosts for numerous species. Their fibrous root systems are good at holding banks, slopes, and edges. For the most part they are deer and rabbit resistant. And last but not least, they provide structural backbone - variations in texture, color, and rhythm - to your ornamental beds. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Landscape plugs from New Moon, grown on at Honey Petal Plants\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51327637258547,"sku":"","price":6.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/512px-Carex_albicans__2x3_1fdbf9da-efbb-4218-8ef4-312a4db7a340.jpg?v=1745231415"},{"product_id":"anemone-canadensis","title":"Anemone canadensis - Canada Anemone","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSizes available: \u003c\/strong\u003e2 quart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBasics: \u003c\/strong\u003ezones 2-8, 12-24\" x 12-24\", part shade to full sun, a sweet white bloom over attractive light green leaves in late spring to mid-summer, for most vigorous growth plant in full sun to part shade with lots of moisture, can be slowed down by drier and shadier conditions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Names: \u003c\/strong\u003eCanada Windflower, Canada Anemone, Meadow Anemone\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFamily: \u003c\/strong\u003eRanunculaceae\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\/Distribution: \u003c\/strong\u003eNative to Maine\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHabitat: \u003c\/strong\u003enative to river margins and flood plains as well as low moist grassy places\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore: \u003c\/strong\u003eThis is an ornamental, native ground cover with strong growing tendencies. It is also beautiful and long-blooming. I think the seedheads are adorable. Do not be afraid! First of all, there may be a space on your plot where you can let it roam free. Do it. It is a great addition to posy-sized bouquets and it looks magnificent blooming en masse. Also, like many strong growing native plants it is adaptable and can be slowed down by planting it in less than ideal conditions, like drier and shadier spots. The roots and leaves have been used medicinally. Most plants in the Buttercup family contain components of greater or lesser toxicity, so proceed with caution. Rabbit and deer resistant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants or Van Berkum Nursery\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImage credits: \u003c\/strong\u003eHoney Petal Plants; Frank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens;  illustration from Wikimedia Commons\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Honey Petal Plants","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51378649497907,"sku":"","price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0910\/6115\/8195\/files\/AnCanadBloom.jpg?v=1745525247"}],"url":"https:\/\/honeypetalplants.com\/collections\/the-shadier-side.oembed?page=3","provider":"Honey Petal Plants","version":"1.0","type":"link"}