Mail-Order Wish List: Heliopsis scabra

Summer Sun False Sunflower - I have seen this in full bloom in another horticulturist's garden and have fallen in love with the prolific blooms and how large of plant it was.  When they told me they grew it from seed I was amazed.  I haven't tried it yet, that is why it is on my wish list.  :)

This variety grows 3 feet, but the one that I saw growing was 5 feet tall.  I'm not sure which variety grows to that height, but I will see if I can find out.

Mail-Order Wish List: Tanacetum coccineum

Painted Daisy - This is not a plant that I have a lot of experience with, but seeing that I can grow it from seed I am willing to give it a try, even though it is hardy to zone 4 and here in the Calgary region we are zone 3.  This plant blooms in early summer and is a long lasting cut flower.  I hear however that though this plant has sturdy stems it might not withstand strong winds which is something of an issue in my neighborhood.  But like I said earlier, these look great and I am willing to give it a try.

Mail-Order Wish List: Liatris spicata

Liatris spicata - One of my favorites, and it can be grown from seed!  Sure it will take some time, but its work the wait.  I love the fine textured, strap-like foliage, and of course in bloom they make a very unique looking plant.  If you can stand it I recommend not cutting the flower heads off and you will have some visual interest in the winter garden, which is something to really consider here in our area of the Great White North.

Mail-Order Wish List: Gaillardia Arizona Red Shades

Arizona Red Shades Gaillardia, perennial that is a close relative of Gaillardia aristata which is a native flower in our area.

Mail-Order Wish List: Cherokee Sunset Rudbeckia

Rudbeckia - Cherokee Sunset, considered a hardy annual, I might consider this a biennial and count myself lucky if it comes back the next year.