Learn about some attractive perennials that proved tough and reliable during CSU perennial trials. Each has been in the ground at least three seasons and was ranked high by the perennial trial garden advisory committee.

Heuchera x hybrid ‘Carnival Silver Streak’ PPAF (Carnival Silver Streak Heuchera) from Darwin Perennials
With its dense, uniform and vigorous growth habit, this plant is one of the better in the Carnival Series. In June, its heavy white flower coverage contrasts nicely with the dark foliage color. The plant is beautiful from a distance but even gets more impressive up close as the leaf coloration comes into focus. Good for use in mass plantings or as a specimen in the shade.

Phlox subulata ‘Early Spring® Light Pink’ (Early Spring Light Pink Creeping Phlox) from Bartels - pictured at top of page
The growth habit is a dense mat, which grows vigorously, filling in quickly after initial planting. Flowering starts in early March and flowers are pink. The plant grows to about 6-8 inches in height. This very adaptable phlox provides some winter texture to the perennial border with more evergreen foliage.

Solidago ‘Barseven’ (Sweety® Golden Rod) from Bartels
Early in its growing season during June and July, this plant has a dense, vigorous and uniform growth habit. Peak flowering is in July and August and the plant grows to about 16 inches in height. After flowering some lodging occurred due to overhead watering. This is a very cold hardy plant, makes a good fresh cut flower and also can be used in dried flower arrangements.

See more hardy perennials in the March-April 2017 issue of Colorado Green (pages 16-17).

Read more in this issue of Colorado Green NOW:
Pansies and violas offer cool-season color
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Drone technology streamlines large projects
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