did you know?

The genus name is derived from two Greek words: meaning "sharp," and meaning "salt," for the bitter and acidic taste of the sap. Unlike the tiny, small-leafed species of a ubiquitous garden weed, many members of this genus are very ornamental.

general maintenance:

Remove faded leaves through the season to maintain a tidy appearance. Allow soil to dry and leaves to fade in fall. After leaves yellow, cut off foliage. In areas cooler than Zone 9, dig bulbs, and store as you would dahlias, in boxes of dry soil, sand, and peat in a frost-free location.

pests/diseases:

Leaf miners and spider mites may occur.

controls:

For leaf miners, remove damaged leaves. For spider mites, use horticultural oil spray.

how to sow/plant:

Plant in spring, 2?3 inches deep, 1?3 inches apart. Begin watering once new growth emerges in spring. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil moisture all season, watering as needed. Feed biweekly with a balanced, soluble fertilizer, following package direction. In fall, stop feeding, and reduce amount of watering.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Disease Resistant
• Shade Tolerant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Edging
• Flowerbed borders
• Shade Woodland Garden

other uses:

combine with:

ivy sweet alyssum and verbena in containers, or use for color at front of border.