Summer Blooms Followed by Red Stems in Winter

This sun-loving, drought-tolerant, perennial plant combo produces copious summertime blooms. The varied flower shape of Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' with its spires of purple paired with the magenta-pink, daisy-shaped blooms atop dark stems of Echinacea 'Merlot' create a simple, but successful and long lasting display. The lightly-colored, semi-evergreen foliage of the lamb's ear looks good almost year-round and as an edge of silver-colored foliage, illuminates the scene like a footlight. In summer the shrub dogwood, Cornus 'Midwinter Fire', hums quietly in the background, playing a supporting role to perennial blooms. Come winter, it sheds its deciduous foliage to reveal vivid orange-red stems; emboldened by cool weather, it steps to center stage, enlivening the dark days of winter.

Growing Conditions

Zone: 5, 6, 7, 8
Exposure: Afternoon Sun, Full Sun
Water Needs: Drought-tolerant, Low

Design Considerations

Style: Cottage, Modern, Naturalistic, Northwest Eclectic
Features: Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Flower Fest, Attracts Pollinator, Wildlife Friendly, Winter Interest
Focus: Mixed Border, Saving Water, Pleasing Seasonal Flow
Seasons of Interest: Late Spring / Early Summer, Summer, Fall, Winter, Pleasing Seasonal Changes, Three Seasons of Interest

Care and Maintenance


Maintenance Level: medium



Plants In this Combo