Perennial ‘Top Performers’: Information from the CSU Two-Year Perennial Trial

By: Jim Klett, Professor and Extension Landscape Horticulturist, Department of Horticulture and L.A., Colorado State University

Now since it is officially spring, industry professionals and gardeners are thinking of growing and planting perennials. I hope you will consider these ‘Top Performers’ from the CSU Trials. These perennials were planted in 2010 and researched for 3 growing seasons and 2 winter periods.  For more information on the perennial trials, visit our website. 



Buzz™ Butterfly Bush

Buddleia davidii ‘buzz™’ ^PPAF series, (Buzz™ Butterfly Bush Series) – This entire series was noted for excellent flower production and dense growth. Range of colors in series was Blue Violet, Ivory, Pink Purple, Violet and Magenta. These more compact Butterfly Bushes work well as a mixed border plant.

Gold Collection® Lenten Rose

Helleborus x ballardiae ‘Gold Collection®’ series, (Gold Collection® Lenten Rose series) – The plants were noted for early blooms (March) with flowers facing upright and dark glossy green foliage year round. These plants make a great groundcover for a shady area. Flower color varies from a pink blush with yellow interior to pink blush on chartreuse petals.



Fireball Bee Balm

Monarda ‘Fireball’ ^{PP #14,235}, (Fireball Bee Balm) – Plants are prolific bloomers in July with wine colored blooms on sturdy stems with no lodging, even with overhead irrigation. They have superior mildew resistance and great for the back of perennial border.

Phlox paniculata ‘Classic Cassis’ ^PPAF, (Classic Cassis Perennial Phlox) – Plant has a long bloom time with big bold flowers. Flowers are a bright pink color with hints of mauve which start in June and continue well into August. Plants have good clean green foliage throughout the season.



Pina Colada Perennial Phlox

Phlox paniculata ‘Pina Colada’ ^PP#19968, (Pina Colada Perennial Phlox) – Pure white flowers are impressive against the dark green foliage from June into September. Growth habit is compact and spent flowers drop off the flower panicles that give plant a clean look throughout the season.

These five perennials are a must for producers, retailers and gardeners for the 2013 growing season.