BOYKINIA

(Boykin'ia)

DESCRIPTION: These perennials are found mainly in the northwestern U.S. These plants form mounds of bright green foliage. The leaves are kidney-shaped, up to an inch wide and leathery. They are produced in basal rosettes. B. Jamesii grows up to 24 inches high with a 12-inch spread. Its flowers are widely bell-shaped, up to an inch across. They are produced in sprays on long stalks early in the summer. The petals are spoon-shaped and colored cherry-carmine with a green center. This plant is great for a shady nook in a rock garden and as a pot plant for the alpine house.

POTTING: Boykinias need a shady spot in moist, but well-drained, peaty or leafy soil, which is neutral to acidic. They will flourish if given liberal amounts of liquid fertilizer.

PROPAGATION: These plants may be increased by division in the spring or by seeds in the fall.

VARIETIES: B. Jamesii; B. aconitifolia; B. tellimoides.

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