Common name:Dwarf Bottlebrush Little John
Botanical name:Callistemon X viminalis 'Little John'
The 'Little John' exhibits very dense, compact growth to 3' x 3'. It produces clusters of blood red flowers and grey green foliage. A very regular, almost symmetrical, spiral patten of dense oval leaves is shown along the stems.
Common name:Variegated Tobira
Botanical name:Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata'
This variegated evergreen shrub or small tree has creamy margins on its gray green leaves. In spring, clusters of small, cream-colored flowers appear with the fragrance of orange blossoms. Variegated Tobira is often used to brighten shaded areas.
Common name:Red Star Texas or Autumn Sage
Botanical name:Salvia greggii 'Red Star'
This shrub will grow 1'-4' tall and wide. It has glossy green leaves with red flowers that bloom from spring through fall. It prefers well draining soil with regular watering although it will take drought conditions. It will become leggy looking. Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooming.
Designer: Susan and Pat Price
Photographer: GardenSoft
Practice grass-cycling by leaving short grass clippings on lawns after mowing, so that nutrients and organic matter are returned to the soil.
Adjust sprinklers to avoid watering sidewalks and driveways.
Develop healthy soil for plants that are vigorous and naturally pest-resistant.