In October 2014, I picked up a one-gallon pot of
Barleria obtusa at my local botanic garden's fall plant sale. In 2015, it had reached a modest size and flowered nicely. In 2016, it looked even better but in 2017 I began to have some concerns that it might be a trifle too exuberant. However, I adore plants with blue flowers and the Barleria blooms profusely so I was willing to forgive a lot.
At the end of its bloom period last November, I cut my largest plants back hard, even as I transferred some of their seedlings to new areas. Despite being cut to a height of 6 inches or less, the original plants have already exceeded their mature size last year.
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| This one had begun to engulf the Echium webbii next to it so I cut it back for a second time in July |
Plants that were mere seedlings last year have also assumed a respectable size.
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| This was a tiny seedling last year |
And I continue to find seedlings all over my garden.
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| Every time I cut something back or clean up and area, I find more Barleria seedlings. I've considered transplanting some of these on my ugly, neglected back slope to see if they can survive even there. They have a reputation for being very drought tolerant. |
But when I saw this I began to wonder if perhaps I've made this plant too welcome in my garden.
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| If it looks like this plant's in a cage, that's because it is. But I didn't put it there. |
Pulling back a bit, here's a better view of where I found this seedling.
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| This chimenea was left behind by the prior homeowner. I had an Aloe striata in a pot sitting in front of the chimenea's grill and, while inspecting the battered aloe last week, I noticed a splash of green color in the background. |
At one time I had a vague plan to use the chimenea as a plant container but that task never rose to the top of my project list.
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| I'd made do with topping the chimenea's smoke vent with a pot of Euphorbia 'Sticks on Fire' |
I haven't decided what to do with either the chimenea or the plentiful supply of
Barleria seedlings I have on hand but I feel as though a pushy Mother Nature is nudging me along.
This is my Wednesday Vignette. For others,
visit Anna at Flutter & Hum.
All material © 2012-2018 by Kris Peterson for Late to the Garden Party
