Oppressive heat is not a problem for this drought-tolerant native

Drought-tolerant native plants

A few years ago while traveling in England in July - and it happened to be during a severe heat wave - I happened to observe a plant; Despite the steamy conditions it stood out proudly. while most of its neighbors were With wilting leaves and falling leaves, this plant was a beautiful 3 feet tall plant. Then I found out it was MartyCross sneezes, a beacon of resilience in the midst of adversity. Its blooming flowers in reds, oranges and yellows glistened happily, undisturbed by record-breaking temperatures. Its exceptional qualities are apparently no secret to gardeners in England, for I have seen it all over the landscape. 

This perennial's ability to thrive with little irrigation highlights its adaptability and makes it a valuable asset in gardens with unpredictable weather patterns. Its vibrant colors are untouched by the merciless sun. Like many Helenium varieties, Mardi Gras thrives in full sun, but does well with some partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil, but is suitable for a variety of soil types, including clay and loam. While it is drought tolerant, regular watering during dry periods will help maintain optimal growth and flooring. There are many varieties of sneezeweed in a variety of colors and growth heights, but the Mardi Gras is the perfect combination of fancy and good manners. You can expect this sprig to bloom from mid-summer to late fall.

Since a single stem can sport dozens of daisy-like flowers, it's an ideal candidate for cut bloomers. Bright flowers are also very attractive to pollinators, and the remaining seed pods are a favorite bird snack. However, Mardi Gras®'s biggest bonus is its deer and rabbit resistance. If your soil is on the moist side, your plant can reach 4 feet tall. In that case, you might Stock it to prevent failure. To support the plant, I use a dark colored tomato cage hidden by the foliage. It is an easily shared perennial; Cut pieces of the root mass with a spade in spring. The genus name Helenium refers to the Helen of Troy of Greek mythology, whose beauty was the cause of the Trojan War—"the face that launched a thousand ships," as the saying goes. In my garden, Mardi Gras® brings a thousand smiles during its growing season.