AZUSA, Calif. – Monrovia, the leading grower of premium garden plants, has partnered with renowned plant explorer, Dan Hinkley for the past four years. "He continues to astound us with new plant discoveries, and this year is no exception," said Nicholas Staddon, director of new plants. "Dan uncovered the first purple-leafed Hydrangea in China that gardeners will love. Plus, a rare Pachysandra with lovely fragrant flowers and a Variegated Box-Leaf Azara."
Plum Passion® Hydrangea
Hydrangea aspera Plum Passion®
USDA Zones 7 – 10
A Dan Hinkley Plant Collection® selection, this unique shrub was discovered in China – the first ever purple-leaved Hydrangea. Foliage is dark purple on the upper side of the leaf and rosy purple on the underside. Wispy, mid-sized lacecap flowers are somewhat insignificant in contrast with the striking foliage. This moderate growing, deciduous shrub will reach five to six feet tall spreading somewhat wider. Full to partial shade.
"This is one of the most unusual hydrangeas we've ever seen…almost to the point you wouldn't think it's a Hydrangea," Staddon said. "A true conversation piece, it would look stunning next to yellow plants like the Golden Spirit Smoke Tree or any blue-leafed Hosta."
Windcliff Fragrant Pachysandra
Pachysandra axillaris 'Windcliff Fragrant'
USDA Zones 6 – 9
Fragrant white flowers appear in early spring and repeat in autumn on this very special selection of Pachysandra. Glossy evergreen foliage provides an attractive groundcover for shade or partial sun. This perennial is a wonderful addition to Monrovia's Dan Hinkley Collection®. Grows to four to six inches tall with a spreading habit. Requires full shade to partial sun and regular watering, especially in extreme heat.
"This fragrant Pachysandra was discovered in China and brought to us by Dan Hinkley," explained Staddon. "This will be the new go-to plant for those seeking a shade-loving flowering groundcover."
Variegated Box-Leaf Azara
Azara microphylla 'Variegata'
USDA Zones 8 – 10
This dainty upright large bush or small tree has a fountain-like shape and arching branches. Its tiny half-inch-long green leaves are edged with a creamy white variegation — the first variegated one of the species. In late spring into early summer, the tiny petal-less flowers exude a vanilla fragrance. Flowers are followed in summer by orange-red berries. Evergreen. It will reach 15 to 25 feet tall and 8 to 10 feet wide. With pruning, it can be maintained at a smaller size. Care: Prefers partial shade to full sun. Needs weekly watering or more often in extreme heat. Another new addition to the Dan Hinkley Collection.
"It has a relaxed growth habit, especially in shade, but can be pruned into a columnar shape. I love its au natural look when left unpruned," said Staddon.
Background on Monrovia:
Founded in 1926, Monrovia is the leading grower of premium ornamental and edible plants, with more than 2,500 varieties. The company has introduced hundreds of improved plants, including more than 230 exclusives. Monrovia's Distinctively Better® plants are nurtured in custom-blended, premium soil mixes, to produce healthy plants that flourish in the landscape. Monrovia soils and organic fertilizers are now packaged for home use. From its three, eco-friendly nurseries in Visalia, Calif., Dayton, Ore. and Cairo, Ga., Monrovia distributes its plants through independent garden centers and re-wholesalers nationwide. The company remains a family owned entity. www.monrovia.com
Source: Monrovia