Flower Description and Bloom Time
The pink 5-petalled flowers have red veins and white throats. Some evaluators reported that plants produced prolific bloom in June and then bloomed sporadically throughout the summer. Other evaluators had flowers throughout the growing season and into late October.
Foliage Interest — Color and Texture
Foliage is deeply lobed and bronze-green. The fine-textured foliage remains clean all season. Burgundy fall color through October and November.
Habit and Growth Rate Observations
Plants produce a mound of foliage about 12 x 12 inches, although in one trial garden, plants were 6 inches tall and 18 inches wide.
Site Preference — Soil and Light
Easily grown in average well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, organic soil. Established plants can be drought-tolerant.
Successes and Possible Drawbacks
The three-year period for this evaluation experienced drought. One exceptionally hot March caused plants to emerge that were then subjected to freezing weather. Some evaluators lost all three trial plants in the first year. Others had plants emerge in March with unusually warm (80 F) temperatures, and the plants then disappeared in May. Evaluators provided supplemental watering during drought conditions. Proper siting, where the plant receives afternoon shade and medium moisture, will help. If summer heat reduces flowering, plants can be cut back to rejuvenate, shape and/or encourage a late summer/early fall rebloom. Although this plant is touted as deer and rabbit resistant, deer did browse some flowers in one trial garden.
Notes from Growers/Retailers
Hardy in Zones 5 through 8. Provide additional water during periods of drought while plants are establishing.
Good Combinations
Suitable for massing as a front border or edging plant in rock gardens and cottage gardens. Consider companions such as coral bells (Heuchera), foam flower (Tiarella)), dwarf goat’s beard (Aruncus ‘Misty Lace’) and other perennials that prefer afternoon shade.
Parting “SHOT” — The overall evaluation results were Good ***
Although some evaluators lost all three of their plants due to summer drought or erratic spring weather, plants that did survive performed well with supplemental watering. As one evaluator noted, it’s a “great small edging plant with fall foliage color and long bloom cycle.”
Evaluated 2011-2014
