Whitewater Weeping Redbud Tree

Late last fall I planted Cercis canadensis 'Whitewater' in the woodland garden. It was one of my more expensive internet purchases.  I was nervous about spending so much on a tree I had never seen. It arrived in a five gallon container, apparently healthy in its dormant condition. I was pleased with its weeping form and eagerly waited for it to wake up this spring.

And waited, and waited. I was seriously worried about it. I had planted it in good soil in a partially shaded spot. Perfect conditions. Finally, well into April, after every other tree had put out spring growth, I saw a few dark rose, pea-like flowers along its bare branches. Only a few, but it was promising. I can imagine how gorgeous it will be when it is covered with such flowers.

After the flowers, I waited some more. Finally, tiny leaves slowly began to appear. They were solid green. This was a disappointment, as Whitewater is noted for its fabulous variegated heart shaped foliage. But I was happy enough with its weeping habit, so I was going to love it even if the leaves were solid.

To my amazement, the leaves have grown to nearly the size of the palm of my hand, much larger than the wild redbuds that grow in my garden, and over time many of the leaves are acquiring beautiful variegated patterns.The leaves started out green, then developed splotches, which is opposite of what is advertised. Normally, they would emerge white or variegated, then gradually become solid green as the season progresses. My tree may be backwards, but I am loving it more every day!

Redbuds are North American natives, and this cultivar came out of North Carolina. It will grow in hardiness zones 6-9. Plant in fall or early spring in acid to slightly alkaline soil that is moist but well drained. It is best to water it well about once a week while it the roots are becoming established, but after that it can take occasional drought. 

Whitewater provides four seasons of interest with its lovely flowers, variegated foliage and striking weeping form. It will grow to about 8 feet tall by 6 feet wide. It is a unique specimen. I am looking forward to watching my little tree progress through the seasons this year, then seeing what it will do next year after it has had time to become well established.

A Little Bit of Jungle

Penelope Rose is a beautiful shrub rose which begins its bloom in May and will repeat bloom through the summer and into fall:There are many flowers blooming in the garden now, but already I sense the sweet promise of spring is gone. I only hope we can survive the onslaught of high heat, bad bugs, viruses, mildew and molds that come with summer. Will I have the energy to face the thugs that hover over me and breathe down my neck? I break into a sweat just thinking about it. Overnight, weird weeds will spring up, and if I turn my back they are likely to tap me on the shoulder, then laugh when I discover my prized plants smothered by their tendrils. 

My garden is a refuge from the wild areas that encroach all around. It was carved out of tangled overgrowth, and a little bit of jungle remains. Warm temperatures and rain promote rapid growth, and the thicket would return quickly, if I let it.

I recently discovered black spot and white flies in my vegetable garden, along with invasive bamboo shoots sprouting up through its soil, so my gloomy mood is justified. But briefly, for I am always an optimist. Mornings are still cool, and the humidity is just beginning to rise in the afternoons. The weather of the past few days has been pleasant, and the garden is looking good. Here's a quick review of my little bit of jungle:

In the gardens that surround the lawn in front of the house:

Below are some of the late spring/early summer bloomers:

Row 1: Flowers by the parking court; Anthony Waterer Spirea. Row 2: Rosa Mutabilis; Penstemon Huskers Red. Row 3: Purple verbenas; McKana Hybrid Columbine. Row 4: Calla Lily; Rosa Palustris.

Top: Amaryllis and Gazania. Bottom: Gazania; Hibiscus

Of course I love all these flowers, but my heart remains with beautiful foliage:Row 1: Red Banana plant; Chinese Fan Palm. Row 2: Hosta Francis Williams; Caladium. Row 3: Whitewater Redbud; Tropicana Canna Lily.

No plant has prettier foliage than the red banana plant, and I am happy to report that mine has returned, despite its marginal hardiness in my area. It remains my favorite plant purchase from last year:

In the top photo below you can see what is just a few steps beyond the woodland garden. Below that image are photos demonstrating what happens when a determined gardener intervenes!

Have a great week, and don't let the weeds get you down!   Deborah