Regional Picks: Large-Leaved Perennials – Southern California

1. ‘Orange Aide’ Bromeliad

Name:Aechmea blanchetiana‘Orange Aide’

USDA hardiness zones:10 to 11

Size:3 to 4 base improbable and 2 feet all-embracing

condition : Full Lord’s Day to partial shade ; acidic , well - run out land

aboriginal to Brazil , this bromeliad cultivar develop a beautiful orangish pinch on its big leaves when grown in full sun , while in shade , the chromaticity is more of a light green . It is not broad of salt spray but is drought resistant once lay down . The coral red flush issue on a angry walk in spring from the crocked center russet scab of folio and normally last for a few months . The plant can reach 5 to 6 feet improbable when in bloom . ‘ Orange Aide ’ bromeliad has no serious pestis problems . I frequently establish it under tree with shallow root organization because it is an epiphyte and has the power to grow in very shallow soil . Keep it away from the edge of walkway as the spiny gross profit margin can wound passersby .

2. Portea

Name:Portea petropolitanavar.extensa

Zones:9 to 10

Conditions : Full sunshine to partial specter ; well - drained filth

This beauty has bright Paris green evergreen leaf , with sharp spines along its edges . If portea is grown in the shade , its leaf become dark green . It may reach 3 feet tall prior to blossoming , growing in an upright rosette . When in bloom , however , the flower stalk can reach 4 feet grandiloquent , so give it the right way . The 12- to 18 - inch - long pink and purple inflorescence hold back lavender flower petal , apple green ovaries , and berry that turn dismal purple . The flowers show up in former bounce and last until midsummer . Portea can be found under trees because it will not compete for base space . It makes a outstanding focal point when planted in a group , and the inflorescence can be used as a cut flower for a long - lasting arrangement .

3. Mexican Grass Tree

Name:Dasylirion longissimum

Zones:8 to 11

Size:4 to 6 foundation tall and wide

Conditions : Full Sunday ; well - drained stain

This striking evergreen shrub has grasslike , glaucous green leaves that shine from a central trunk . It is a slow cultivator but can accomplish a total pinnacle of 12 feet after many , many years . Although the width of the leave may not be much , the distance of the individual blade are a whopping 4 feet long . Native to northeasterly Mexico , this plant require extremely good drainage . The singular physique of Mexican grass Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree makes it an unforgettable focal point ; it is striking when uplit at dark . I wish to compound this plant with down in the mouth succulents that do not vie with its figure and oculus - catching chassis .

4. Ghost Agave

Name:Agave attenuata

Zones:9 to 11

Size : Up to 3 feet tall and 6 feet wide

This smooth - leaf agave is soft to the spot and to the centre . With pale green foliage , this plant will mix well with tropicals or with other succulents . Its pliable leaves come forth from a tight central lance to arch graciously back , which make ghost agave look like a large exposed unripened blossom . The individual rosettes may get to 4 feet wide atop a hardy , suave grey base that rise up and curves . trace agave tends to create turgid colony as new plant life grow promptly from the base . Its flowers are a pale greenish yellow and get into many new small plant . If it ’s grow in full Lord’s Day in hot and dry climates , you ’ll need to leave some shade for this plant in summer . It will develop in moist or dry soils but looks best with occasional lacrimation . This agave tolerates seaside conditions .

Amelia Lima is the principal designer and owner of Amelia B Lima & Associates , Inc. , a landscape painting excogitation firm in San Diego , California .

Photos : # 1 , Joshua McCullough ; # 2 , millettephotomedia.com ; # 3 , Jerry Pavia ; # 4 , Kerry Ann Moore

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Regional Picks: Large-Leaved Perennials - Northeast

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