Doreanthus 'Mezoo Trailing Red'

Button-sized red flower of Dorotheanthus ‘Mezoo Trailing Red’

Although it resembles a standard variegated succulent, we find Dorotheanthus ‘Mezoo Trailing Red’ more versatile and less fussy. In the south it is used as a variegated green groundcover, whereas in the north it’s considered a houseplant to take outside in the summer and bring back inside during the winter. In Cincinnati we are in the middle, so we can take advantage of ‘Mezoo’ in landscapes, combos, and as a display specimen. A key feature is its easy-going nature.

When Cilantro blooms and seeds it is called Coriander

If you’re working with edible landscapes, ornamental herbs, or are just plain curious about what Cilantro blooms look like we can report that they make a beautiful addition to the front garden. We have some blooming right now in our ornamental bed. They are surprisingly beautiful and delicate flowers that bloom in mid-June, though they rarely get noticed. This is the same herb used in Asian and Mexican cuisine—there is nothing ornamental about it, except when we let it go to flower on purpose. This happens very quickly once the day temperature gets above the mid-70s, so June is usually when we see the delicate display.

A lacy, lofty element in the front garden growing tall and slender from a single stem

Cilantro is Spanish for Coriander and is the name we use when referring to the leaves of the plant; when Cilantro blooms and seeds it is called Coriander. Flowering Coriander grows very tall and slender from a single stem but branches out into an elegant, fern-like inverted cone that somewhat resembles a miniature Queen Anne’s Lace. It stands about two or three feet above the ground and is as thin as a soda bottle rising up to that height. We like to use this herb as a companion plant for areas where we want a lofty, thin, lacy element to wave in the breeze. Surprisingly, the leaves and flowers are still tasty if you like a strong Cilantro flavor.

Cilantro is available in the 3.25-inch pot.

Field Day—talking plants with Elmer and industry peers

Mark your calendar: Field Day 2019 will be held on Wednesday, August 21st. Join us and fellow industry peers as we walk our educational display gardens and talk plants. Elmer and Ron will lead discussions focusing on the new material and techniques we’re trying out in each of the display beds. Which plant will draw the biggest buzz this year? There will be plenty of time for Q & A, in addition to a delicious lunch. See you there!