September is my favorite month for many reasons. It's full of back-to-school excitement, and we collectively pivot from pool parties to tailgating. It also has me thinking of Sugar Shack®Cephalanthus. While the actual sugar shacks are a late winter thing, this version of our native buttonbush is still showing off in the landscape with its bright red fruit. It's also smaller than the straight species, coming in at about 4-5' tall and wide. From USDA 4-10, you can grow Cephalanthus occidentalis in full sun (more north) to part shade (more south).
Flowers?
Those distinctive Cephalanthus flowers were a wonderfully fragrant addition to landscapes earlier in the summer. While we enjoy the way they look, our pollinator friends LOVE their nectar. It's their own version of a sugar shack, but without the heavy coats.
Problem-solver
It's pretty and attracts pollinators, which is enough for many of us. But it's also a great problem-solving plant if the challenge is too much water. Many plants aren't happy in that situation, but Cephalanthus loves it. Learn more from our friends at Creekside Nursery in this video.
Fall is back to school for everyone
There are plenty of great continuing education opportunities for landscape professionals this fall. Two coming in September are the Grow West Coast trade show in Vancouver, and NALP's Elevate in Orlando.
Proven Winners® ColorChoice® is pleased to be a sponsor of both events, and we hope to see you at a conference soon!
Spring Meadow Nursery, 12601 120th Avenue, Grand Haven, Michigan 49417, United States, 800-633-8859
