May and June are prime months for tropical plants to enter the garden picture, as temperatures during the day (and night) are finally warm enough for these tender flowering beauties.
The most common and widely grown is a native of South Africa, Plumbago auriculata, a shrubby white or blue bloomer that’s typically used in container plantings in sun to part sun. If you haven’t tried it and prefer either color in your garden or planters, it’s a lovely and tough addition. An occasional light clip and fertilizer to keep new growth and buds coming are all it requires.
Another of my favorites of the last few years in container plantings, and pictured here, is Thryallis, Galphimia glauca, a floriferous yellow tropical that also blooms through the summer and is quite carefree. A native of tropical areas extending from Mexico to Guatemala in Central America, it likes it hot and soil that’s not soggy but well drained; take care to not overwater.
Since it will get quite robust by the end of the season, place it in a large container or bed and let it go. It will be at its best in full, hot sun, ideally in a spot that’s protected from a lot of wind. Finally some good news for any of you that deal with deer issues – they don’t like it and won’t touch it (Though we won’t make any promises!).
We have plumbago and thryallis in stock now if you’d like either of these tropical beauties to brighten your summer garden. They won’t disappoint!
By Kris Blevons