Rocky Mountain Blue Columbine

The Hollyhock Indian Spring, 'Alcea rosea 'Indian Spring', has very tall spires of old fashioned flowers. The flowers are 3 to 6 inches wide and appear in colors of yellow, purple, pink, red, and white. They begin to bloom in early summer and continue to bloom for 30 to 90 days. Hollyhocks thrive in heavily composted fertile, organic soils. Plant seed in early summer, if planted too early they seem to lose their perennial habit. Indian Spring is used for edible flowers, cut flowers, dried flowers, and as background screens.

The Columbine Rocky Mountain Blue, 'Aquilegea caerulea', contains nectar in the tip of the petal's narrow spur that can only be reached by hummingbirds. It is the state flower of Colorado. This is a great addition to any perennial garden. The 2 inch or longer blue and white flowers appear atop wiry stems. Plant in early spring or as late as 2 months before the first fall frost. The Columbine Rocky Mountain Blue is used in rock gardens, border plants, and for cut flowers.

The English Daisy, 'Bellis perennis', has profuse bright red and white cushion-like flowers that are a perfect accent for any border. The English Daisy is the "original" Daisy. The yellow-eyed, bright red and white flowers will brighten up any border or rock garden. Plant in early spring, 2 to 3 weeks before the average last frost date or as late as 2 months before the first fall frost. The English Daisy makes excellent cut flowers and is an outstanding bedding and border plant.