Orange Libertia

There is a unique grass like plant that resides in the garden bed near the kiosk.  It's actually very closely related to the iris. Orange Libertia (Libertia peregrinans) is a perennial with bright orange evergreen leaves. It's a great compliment to silver or bright green plants. 

This New Zealand native grows by rhizomes and has leaves that reach up to 2 feet. It's a nice little pop of colour in the Westcoast Winter months. 

In early Spring, small white flowers appear on branched stems. You can see the dried remains of last years flowers in this picture. 

A great addition to most gardens due to it's easy going nature. It can handle sun or light shade and has moderate watering requirements. 

Spring is Coming

We are looking forward to Spring at Quilchena. Their are hints of it's upcoming arrival everywhere. I was exploring the garden surrounding the pond between #9 and #18 and came across a hopeful sign. The iris's were starting to awaken from their slumber and push through the decomposed leaf debris from last year.   What a beautiful sight!

An Annual Haircut

Last week, the Calamagrostis 'Karl Foerster' near the kiosk, got it's annual haircut. I cut the mass planting of ornamental grasses back before the growing season to allow for a flush of  fresh new growth to develop. It's short right now but will grow back to its original glory over the next few months.