New in retail centers this coming spring from Spring Meadow Nursery — all Proven Winners brand.
Bobo™ Hydrangea
(Hydrangea paniculata 'ILVOBO')
This a new dwarf hydrangea, 3' tall x 3-4' wide, (are they ever really dwarf??) with upright blooms from early spring until frost. As the season progresses, the flowers take on a blush color, then a deep pink. Sun to part sun, zones 3-9. It can be used in the border or even in a container. Great plant for small gardens.
Tuff Stuff™ Hydrangea
(Hydrangea serrata 'MAK20')
I've always favored Hydrangea serratas, and this one was bred particularly for bud and stem hardiness. It flowers on new and on old wood even in cool temperatures from early summer until frost. Blooms are pink to blue, depending on soil acidity. Just two to three feet tall and wide, so again, a great plant for small gardens. Sun to part sun, zones 5-9.
Buddleia 'Lilac Chip'
Another dwarf butterfly bush, just 18-24 inches tall and 2-3' wide. This is part of the Lo & Behold® series, said to be non-invasive. Blooms are a soft lavender color and no need to deadhead. Flowers until frost. Full sun, zones 5-9.
Show Off® Sugar Baby Forsythia
(Forsythia 'NIMBUS')
Sady, forsythias are just too big for many gardens, but this new one could be the answer for small city spaces. Just 1.5-2.5 feet high and wide, it needs no pruning and has an impressive display of color in early spring. A great candidate for a low hedge or in the front of the border. Full sun, zones 4-8.
Sonic Bloom™ Weigela
Weigela florida 'Verweig-6' (red); 'Bokrasopin' (pink); 'Bokrasopea' (pearl)
This weigela is not exactly tiny, at 4-5 feet tall and wide, but it's a bit smaller than the usual variety. It also comes in three colors — red, pink (shown here) and pearl. These are deer resistant and attract hummingbirds when in bloom (not ever long enough). Good for shrub borders and perhaps a specimen in a small garden in the right place. Full sun, zones 4-8.
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