Where have I been?

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. 

Comments

[Kristin]

What fun to make a discovery in your own yard! It's lovely, and I'm glad it's come into its own.

[Barbara H.]

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.

[Kris P]

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.

[Frank]

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 :)

[hb]

That is a beauty. The ugly duckling became a swan. I love how plants surprise us!

[danger garden]

Wow, it really has matured into quite the looker!

[Lisa at Greenbow]

What a nice surprise. It is like finding a lovely new plant in your own garden.