Encore Azaleas
We all recognize azaleas as one of the icons of the spring garden, but Encore azaleas have been bred to bloom in the fall and summer as well. Other than bloom time, they are the same as most other azaleas.
Located – NATO Triangle and Garden Wide
Fall Foliage
Peak fall color for us usually occurs somewhere between early and mid-November. Some of the best places to enjoy it are Mirror Lake, The Enchanted Forest, The Glade, Shady Woods, and along the road between the Hofheimer Camellia Garden and the Rhododendron Garden.
Located – Garden Wide
Japanese Maples
One of the most spectacular plants at this time of year are the Japanese maples (Acer palmatum). Their fall foliage colors are stunning. While we have them planted in many spots, some the best places to see them are the Japanese Garden, The Glade, and The Rhododendron Garden.
Located – Garden Wide
Korean Sweetheart Tree
Although the flowers are insignificant on the Korean sweetheart tree (Euscaphis japonica), at least to our eyes, the fall fruit is quite showy with its red, heart-shaped capsules that split open revealing blue-black fruit. In order to have those pretty fruits, you need to have 2 sweetheart trees planted near each other, otherwise one tree by itself will be a lonely heart tree.
Located – Rose Garden Hall Entrance
Oakleaf Hydrangea
Most hydrangeas are known for their wonderful flowers, and the oakleaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) is no exception. However, it is the only hydrangea to have attractive fall foliage in shades of red and burgundy tinged with orange. Also unusual for a hydrangea, this species has attractive exfoliating bark that keeps the plant interesting through the winter months.
Located – Colonial Garden
Sasanqua Camellias
The flowers of wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox) are somewhat bell shaped and hang from the bare branches, usually with the first warm spell of winter. Their fragrance is sweet like the best perfume.
Located – Hofheimer Camellia Garden
