Ghosts in the forest?

This is a ghostly image of Cotinus x 'Grace' Smoke Tree. Its planted at the back of the property on the edge of the forest. In this photo its limbs and foliage disappear as the flower heads float, illuminated by the morning sun shining through the canopy. Grace is known for its fluffy pale pink clusters of flowers in early summer (June), followed by a brilliant display of red, copper and purple foliage lasting through fall. Its a vigorous grower and can be pruned or allowed to grow tall (up to 20 feet). It prefers full sun but will take some shade. Although its not as showy as the purple smoke bush, its unique characteristics make it worth having.

This is a closer look at Grace's flowers. Its one of those "What is that?" plants.

Malva sylvestris 'Zebrina' better known as Zebra Hollyhocks. They are shorter than most at around 3 feet but produce a lot of flowers. This is our first year growing this variety and they have done quite well. They are said to reseed heavily if allowed to die back naturally. We'll test that theory and see what happens next season.

Our Campanula poscharskyana was covered by a robust patch of Solomon's Seal this year. It clumps very well and blooms heavily when happy. Its always eaten by voles but a few small patches have escaped the critters.

This is a patch of Oenothera fruticosa also known as Sundrops. Although similar to the Evening Primrose, they are different in that their flowers close up at night. Pollinators love 'em and the bright yellow really pops against green foliage. They reach about 24 inches and like morning to midday sun. Despite claims of liking dry soil and full sun, we have found them to prefer regular water with cover from afternoon sun. They wilt quickly if dry and hot. While not invasive, if happy they will easily spread. They transplant easily too.

A full cluster of Veronica Tickled Pink spikes.

We moved two Spiraea japonica 'Norman' out from under a bridal wreath and they came alive this year. They must have sun to bloom well but will take a little shade. It's easy to grow, quite dense and reaches about 3 feet when happy.

Gold Flame Spirea blooms at the same time as japonica above.

Asclepias tuberosa or butterfly weed came back strong this year. The flowers are a source of nectar for butterflies and the leaves are a food source for monarch butterfly larvae. Its also called pleurisy root referencing an old medicinal use of its roots to treat lung inflammation.

The dainty flower spikes of Sweet Tea Heuchera.