Which plants are holding up despite the heat and weeks of drought? I admit I have buried soaker hoses everywhere, so these aren't exactly drought-tolerant plants; yet I'm surprised at how the garden is burgeoning despite summer's intensity. Here's what's happening at this hot late July moment:
Right before a thunderstorm, the almost-lurid evening light caught the brilliant glow of a golden locust tree (Robinia pseudoacacia 'Frisia'), with the purple-belled clematis 'Roguchi' climbing up into its branches.
I love sneezeweed despite its off-putting name - this is Helenium autumnale 'Mardi Gras'. It blooms for nearly eight weeks, with chocolate-colored center cones and petals ruffling out like multi-colored petticoats.
These perennial Gallardia 'Oranges and Lemons' are long blooming, starting in mid-July and continuing nearly until frost. They thrive in heat and sun, and hold up well in arrangements.
Orienpet lilies 'Orange Crush' grow about five feet high and never needs staking. The crisp, creamy white flowers cool down the garden while it's heavy perfume scents the air. The clump is so thick after three years you can cut lilies out of the center for a bouquet, and never miss them.
