Discovering Old Beauties

While doing some research on heirloom plants, I discovered this terrific resource for plants that are dated with their introductions.

http://www.oldhousegardens.com/display.aspx?cat=WebOnly

Here is a 1902 Canna grown by Gertrude Jekyll (who introduced Munstead Lavender), named 'Richard Wallace' with glossy green apple leaves.

The website also has old-timey Peonies - one of which I saw on my recent walk through the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. They have Gladioulus in many colors, and Dahlias dating back to 1789.

Their collection consists of Spring flowering bulbs; Tulips, Hyacinth and Daffodils, including the 'Empress' introduced just after the Civil War


And don't forget the Iris! Though I was disappointed they were sold out of this beauty - 'Blue Rhythm', one of several varieties from the early to mid 1900's.

The site has been praised by gardeners across the country:

“I just wanted you to know that the bulbs we ordered from you are absolutely beautiful! The gardens look superb and it is great to know that we once again have the heirloom bulbs that those from 200 years ago once enjoyed.”
        — Dean Norton, Director of Horticulture, Mount Vernon

So, if you have an interest in something new, that's really very old, try an heirloom plant or two. You're guaranteed not to see it in everybody else's backyard!

Bloom on!
Lyn