Rex Begonias

It was love at first site.  I had my first exposure to Rex Begonias just today at the nursery. As a Landscape Designer- texture and colour are highly seductive qualities in a plant.  Well, these hybradized begonias are stunning. The flowers are insignificant, but who needs them? The foliage is a georgous silver sheen and has many different hues.  There are hundreds of varieties that can enhance any planter and instantly create a sense of elegance.  Rex Begonias are shade lovers.  Actually they fancy the soil similar to that of a forest floor, dry and shady.  Unfortunately they are annuals in our climate.  Plant and enjoy for the year.  Don't fret though- they'll be back next year!  

Catmint

A plant that I've been loving lately is catmint (Nepeta).  It has a strong sage smell that is intoxicating to cats, hence the name.  Ultimately, it has long lasting stunning purple blooms and a loose habit.  It's beautiful paired with most colours, but I particularly like it with the bright yellow of yarrow and the silver foliage of artemesia.  The texture works well with grasses and shrub roses for a casual english cottage garden charm.  I would recommend the cultivar 'Six Hills Giant', it is a taller more dramatic variety.  Grow this plant in full sun or partial shade.