In addition to the trees (see last post), we have now received shrubs, native grasses and perennials. The contractors have been placing them according to the landscaper’s plan, and planting them with plenty of rich compost.
Among the perennials is milkweed, which is both a food source and a host plant for monarch butterflies. The sap of milkweed plants makes both caterpillars and butterflies taste bad to predators. Our milkweed plants will take 2-3 years to reach their full size, but we should see flowers next summer.
Trumpet vine and wisteria will grow over the arbor. These will also start small, but will eventually cover the arbor with flowers of purple and orange.
Among the native grasses is muhlenbergia capillaris “Pink Cloud,” also known as “pink muhly grass.” This is a tough North American native grass that is drought tolerant, handles poor soil and is perfect for slopes. We expect to see clouds of cotton candy when the grass blooms next year.
