Date published: April 1, 2012
5 plants that are making us happy right now
THE FLOWER
Superbena Royale Peachy Keen
WHY WE LOVE IT
Tiny salmon-hued blooms that flower through spring and summer are a fresh take on spring's pastels.
PLANTING TIPS
Growing 10 inches tall and about twice as wide, the new verbena is perfect spilling out of containers or as a ground hugger in the front of borders.
THE FLOWER
Gonzpbrena `All Around Purple'
WHY WE LOVE IT
Rich magenta flowers pop against bright green leaves, and its thin, strong stems make it great for drying.
PLANTING TIPS
The showy annual reaches 2 feet and can hold its own in a container or create a sultry contrast against deep burgundy foliage.
THE FLOWER
Hypearls Olivia St Johnswort
WHY WE LOVE IT
It's hard to decide which is prettier, the cheeky puffs of sunny summer flowers or the coral berries that come in fall.
PLANTING TIPS
These versatile new shrubs are perennials and work best in the ground, where they can reach 3 feet. They also do well in targe pots.
THE FLOWER
Stachys byzantina Big Ears'
WHY WE LOVE IT
A supersize version of lamb's ears, this perennial is one we dare you to keep your hands off. The occasional purple flower spikes are pretty, but the silky soft leaves are the star.
PLANTING TIPS
It tops out at I1A feet; plant it in the ground where it will soften a path.
THE FLOWER
Double Scoop Bubble Gumechlnacea
WHY WE LOVE IT
Well, just look at it. The fluffy pink pompoms topping skirts of petals make this new variety the most playful coneflower on the market.
PLANTING TIPS
It's gorgeous planted en masse with other sunloving summer perennials like penstemon, salvia, and yarrow.