I splurged on Syneilesis palmata 'Kikko' a good ten years ago. It turned out to be a big disappointment, as this fabulous patterning on the leaves did not last beyond spring. As the summer progressed the leaves became a matte green that did not add much to the garden. As a result, I put it in a spot that I rarely pass.
It's been growing there unloved and ignored ever since. I walked by it the other day and was completely shocked to see what it has morphed into over the years. It is a big dramatic foliage clump that has a distinctly blue cast to it.
Each leaf is splashed with a pale mauve. The whole thing has a subtle tropical look. It is growing in the shade — dry shade — under a grove of River Birch trees and an Arborvita hedge. I think I am going to steal a clump and put it in a spot with better conditions where I can enjoy this beauty that I have been missing for all these years.
What fun to make a discovery in your own yard! It's lovely, and I'm glad it's come into its own.
Posted by: Kristin | Monday, August 02, 2021 at 07:37 AM
It's sometimes shocking what happens when we aren't looking. For me, it's usually weeds or saplings of sweetgum trying to take over the world. Glad you had such a lovely surprise. It's beautiful.
Posted by: Barbara H. | Monday, August 02, 2021 at 12:38 PM
That's a nice discovery to kick off the week! I can't say I've had many of my plants surprise me like that after a period of benign neglect.
Posted by: Kris P | Monday, August 02, 2021 at 01:15 PM
You've been busy, no wonder you missed the transformation!
For as much as I think I check every square inch of the garden on a daily basis things are still missed. I love the surprises :)
Posted by: Frank | Monday, August 02, 2021 at 09:20 PM
That is a beauty. The ugly duckling became a swan. I love how plants surprise us!
Posted by: hb | Tuesday, August 03, 2021 at 09:35 AM
Wow, it really has matured into quite the looker!
Posted by: danger garden | Tuesday, August 03, 2021 at 09:56 AM
What a nice surprise. It is like finding a lovely new plant in your own garden.
Posted by: Lisa at Greenbow | Thursday, August 05, 2021 at 11:17 AM