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2014 Report: Bedding Plant Field

and Container Trials

Kansas State University

Horticulture Research & Extension

3

Research Report

2014

Bedding Plant

Field and Container Trials

Dr. Alan Stevens

Robin L. Ruether

Department of Horticulture, Forestry

and Recreation Resources

Kansas State University

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Table of Contents

Page

Introduction ……………………………………………………………… 5

Procedures ……………………………………………………………… 6

Weather ………………………......………………………………… 8

Data Collection …………………………...………………………………… 10

Key to Sources of Plant Material …………………………………… 11

Seed Propagated Annuals ………..………………………………… 12

Vegetatively Propagated Annuals ………...……………………… 25

Container Grown Trials …………………………………………. 41

Prairie Star Collection List ……………………………………………. 60

Pictured on front cover, clockwise from center: Impatiens Big Bounce and

Bounce series, Cuphea Vermillionaire, Pelargonium Glitterati Ice Queen,

Begonia Big Green Leaf Pink, Pelargonium Sarita Wild Salmon, Caladium Fire

and Ice, Canna Happy Wilma

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Introduction

The importance of the commercial floriculture industry to the economic and social health of

Kansas is a known reality. Greenhouse production, retail sale, and landscape installation of flowers

all contribute to the Kansas economy and beautify local environments. Plant sales bring in revenue

for a variety of businesses, from independent nursery/garden centers, to home improvement,

hardware, and grocery store chains. Color programs – the seasonal change of flowering plants – is a

strong profit center for landscape maintenance firms, and many golf courses rely on annual plant

displays to accent their greens and club houses.

Flowers also add to a community’s quality of life when planted to showcase color during the

spring, summer, and fall. Flower displays are becoming a common sight in public areas like city

parks, sidewalk planters, and government buildings with the intent of making the downtown a

more desirable place to shop, work, and live. Businesses also are putting container gardens or

bright flower displays by their storefronts, and homeowners contribute to a community’s appeal

when they decorate their front yards with colorful blooms.

The bedding plant trials conducted by K-State are designed to give citizens

recommendations on which plants do well in the Kansas climate through the Prairie Star program.

Kansas is the geographic center of the country, but it does not enjoy the average climate of the cool

North and hot South. Extreme and sudden changes in heat and cold, rain and drought are common

in all four seasons and the wind blows much of the time. Our prairie climate creates unique

stresses on flowering plants. There is also variation in climate and soil across Kansas. Eastern

Kansas generally has higher rainfall, more vegetation, and neutral to slightly acidic soil while the

western portion of the state has low rainfall and more alkaline soils.

Field trials of annual and perennial plants were conducted at four Kansas locations: Olathe,

Hays, Wichita, and Colby. The four sites are spread across a 400 mile range east to west and 140

miles north to south. The sites encompass two USDA cold hardiness zones, 5 and 6 and two AHS

heat tolerance zones, 7 and 8. Container trials of annuals in Olathe started in 2007. As container

gardening becomes more widespread, this data has been very useful in discovering some cultivars

that perform very well in pots but would not otherwise get good marks in the field trials.

While the Kansas climate provides challenges for growing plants, the desire for new and

superior flower cultivars is always present. With the increasing importance of commercial

floriculture on the Kansas economy and quality of life, it is pivotal to continue developing and

researching cultivars of herbaceous flowering plants for prairie landscapes.

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Procedures

Seeds were sown off site in plug trays, and once the plants were of size they were brought to

the K-State Horticulture Research & Extension center in Olathe, KS, and transplanted into 806 cell

packs or 4 ½” round geranium pots . Potting media was donated by Family Tree Nursery.

Vegetatively propagated plant materials were received as rooted cuttings and potted directly into 4

½” round geranium pots. Liquid fertilizer was applied at 150ppm N from a 20-10-20 formula. All

production was finished in Olathe and subsequently transported to the other trial sites. The plants

were hardened off with reduced night temperature (<55oF) before planting into the field.

After planting, Treflan 5G (5% granular, Trifluralin) was broadcast over the beds and

watered in for pre-emergent weed control. The plants were watered on an as-needed basis using

drip irrigation for the duration of the trial. A minimum of one inch of water was applied at each

irrigation. Beds were allowed to dry substantially between watering. At the Olathe site, a 16-8-8

fertilizer was applied after planting, and every two weeks thereafter for a total of five applications,

at a rate of 1lb N/1,000 sq ft.

Thrips were present early in the season and treated with a cyfluthrin spray. Budworm

damage was observed on the container trials and susceptible cultivars were treated with a Bt

product during the growing season.

The container grown shade trials were grown under an 80% shade cloth, then moved under

tree cover for the field days. All other trials were grown in full sun unless otherwise stated in the

tables below.

The container trials were planted in 16 or 20” diameter pots, with three or five plants per

container. The plants received an application of a slow-release fertilizer (15-9-12) at planting, then

liquid feed (20-10-20) every other week in June through early August. The containers were

watered when needed, typically three times a week.

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Planting Dates

Horticulture Research & Extension Center - Olathe, Kansas Week 21 & 22

Container trials – Olathe, Kansas Week 20 & 21

Agriculture Research Center - Hays, Kansas Week 21

Agriculture Research Center - Colby, Kansas Week 21

Smaller quantities of select varieties were also sent to 20 Demonstration & Research

Gardens in counties throughout the state, which are maintained by Extension Master

Gardener Volunteers.

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Weather Conditions

Temperatures were cool in May and continuous June rains oversaturated some of the areas

early in the season. July and August were unusually mild, but had short periods of heat with little rain.

Weather data from Olathe, KS research site for the period of May 1 – September 10, 2014.

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Data Collection

Visual ratings of each cultivar were made in June, July and August. Cultivars were rated for

vigor and floriferousness. Vigor was related to the growth, strength and substance of the vegetative

portion of the plant. Floriferousness was defined as the overall visual impact of the floral display, a

combination of flower size, number of blooms and how the flowers were displayed on the plant. On

plants where it is the foliar display that is of concern (e.g. Coleus, Sweet Potato), the color and

visual impact of the leaves – the foliagiferousness – was used to determine the rating.

A scale of 1 - 5 was used to rate each of the cultivars for the two characteristics.

1 = dead or no flowers

2 = poor

3 = acceptable

4 = good

5 = exceptional

The height and spread (width) of each cultivar was measured in mid-August. If no value is

listed in the following tables of this report for a particular cultivar, then those plants had died by

that point in the season.

The Prairie Star program is a compilation of annual plants that have performed very well

(overall rating of 4.3 or higher) for two or more years in the K-State bedding plant trials. There is

also a Prairie Bloom list for perennial plants. The plants on these lists are recommended as the

“best of the best” for Kansas gardeners. The Prairie Star collection is organized in three sections:

Plants for Flower Display, Plants for Foliage Display, and Plants for Containers. The Container

category lists plants that displayed exemplary performance in the container trials, and it must be

noted that some of these plants do not grow as well when planted in the flower bed.

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Key to Sources of Plant Material:

AAS = All-American Selections

ATK = American Takii

BALL = Ball Horticulture

BEN = Benary

BFP = Ball Flora Plant

BI = Ball Ingenuity

BHG = Burpee Home Gardens

HC = Hort Couture

KFT = Kieft ProSeeds

Local = Obtained from local sources

McH = McHutchison Horticulture Distributors

OGLEVEE = Oglevee

ORO = Oro

PAS = PanAmerican Seed

PW = Proven Winners

REDFOX = Red Fox

SEL = Selecta

SUN = Suntory

K-State is a proud participant in the National Plant Trials Database

www.planttrials.org

http://www.planttrials.org/

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General Field Trials

Seed Propagated

Annuals

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Seed Propagated Annuals

Alcea

Once established, these compact plants were incredibly resilient and put on an impressive

flower display. The Rose color had especially great interest. Spring Celebrities also had a strong showing

in the Hays, KS trial site in the western part of the state.

Table 1. Performance of select varieties of Alcea in Kansas

Cultivar Color V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

Spring Celebrities Apricot 4.3 4.2 4.3 22 13 ATK Spring Celebrities Rose 4.3 4.2 4.3 23 15 ATK

Angelonia

The AAS award-winning variety is easy-growing and vigorous, and the plants stayed very

uniform and compact.

Table 2. Performance of select varieties of Angelonia in Kansas


Serenita Pink 2014 AAS Winner 4.7 4.2 4.4 15 13 AAS

(See also Vegetatively Propagated and Container Grown – Angelonia)

Asclepias curassavica

These tropical milkweed plants didn’t come on strong until the weather warmed up, but once

they started blooming it was a magnificent display. With all the interest in Monarch butterflies and

beneficial pollinators, this was a very popular plot with the visitors (both insect and human) to the trials.

Table 3. Performance of select varieties of Asclepias in Kansas


Silky Formula Mix 4.7 3.7 4.2 46 37 Local

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Begonia

The BIG series is a solid Prairie Star choice – it’s hard to beat the color from the flowers and

foliage! The new Green Leaf Pink seems to fit right in with the other high-performing colors in the series.

Table 4. Performance of select varieties of Begonia in Kansas


BIG Bronze Leaf Red 4.3 5.0 4.7 18 12 BEN BIG Bronze Leaf Rose 4.3 5.0 4.7 18 12 BEN BIG Green Leaf Pink 4.3 5.0 4.7 18 12 BEN BIG Green Leaf Red 4.2 5.0 4.6 15 10 BEN (See also Vegetatively Propagated and Container Grown – Begonia)

Campanula

This little plant bloomed its heart out all season! For a small perennial it had a very long

flowering period and good display of color.

Table 5. Performance of select varieties of Campanula in Kansas


carpatica Blue 4.2 4.0 4.1 8 9 KFT

Canna

The Cannova series had a great first year in the trials. All the colors were easy to grow from seed

and transplanted out well. They stayed in bloom well up until frost. The Red Shades had the best flower

display of the three, with the blooms displayed on taller stems. Mixing the colors together made for a

very attractive landscape display by the research center front entry.

Table 6. Performance of select varieties of Canna in Kansas


Cannova Red Shades 4.7 5.0 4.8 52 14 BI Cannova Rose 4.7 4.7 4.7 46 14 BI Cannova Yellow 4.7 4.3 4.5 46 15 BI

South Pacific Scarlet 4.7 4.7 4.7 36 15 ATK (See also Vegetatively Propagated and Container Grown – Canna)

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Celosia

While Arrabona Red had a decent performance in the main Olathe research trials, it seemed to

really shine in some of the more western demonstration gardens. It’s a good choice for hot and dry

climates. The Red Flame cut-flower was very striking with its dark foliage and bright, almost iridescent,

flower color.

Table 7. Performance of select varieties of Celosia in Kansas


Arrabona Red 4.0 4.0 4.0 17 10 PAS

First Flame Yellow 3.8 3.8 3.8 13 10 PAS

WATCH 4.7 4.0 4.3 14 14 Local

Red Flame 4.3 4.0 4.2 26 15 Local

Cramer's Burgundy 4.3 3.7 4.0 30 15 Local

Sunday Mix 4.3 4.0 4.2 30 15 Local (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Celosia)

Coleus (Solenostemon)

The Coleus plots struggled early in the season due to frequent rains and cool temperatures.

However, most bounced back nicely, especially Kong Jr. Scarlet and Premium Sun Mighty Mosaic, which

are new additions to the Prairie Star list. The Scarlet is the latest to bloom of the Kong Jr.’s and has a

very nice growth habit and color contrast.

Table 8. Performance of select varieties of Coleus in Kansas


Kong Lime Sprite 4.3 4.0 4.2 20 18 PAS

Kong Jr. Lime Vein 4.0 4.0 4.0 16 16 BI

Kong Jr. Rose 4.3 4.0 4.2 23 20 BI

Kong Jr. Scarlet 4.7 4.3 4.5 20 21 BI

Premium Sun Mighty Mosaic 4.7 4.3 4.5 20 17 PAS

(See also Vegetatively Propagated and Container Grown – Coleus)

Coreopsis

Sun Up was early to bloom and stayed colorful all season long – a very nice little Coreopsis!

Table 9. Performance of select varieties of Coreopsis in Kansas


Sun Up 4.7 4.3 4.5 16 12 KFT

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Craspedia

These curious plants took a while to bloom and the flowers are not plentiful enough to stand

out in a landscape. However, they are a novelty plant that would be great for children (Dr. Seuss!) or cut

flower arrangements.

Table 10. Performance of select varieties of Craspedia in Kansas


Sun Ball 4.0 3.7 3.8 24 15 Local

Dianthus

The Rose AAS Holdover was really quite stunning in the trials – a strong grower with a very

impressive and long-lasting flower display. The Dash colors struggled to get established at the beginning

of the season and the plants stayed pretty small, but did have attractive flowers.

Table 11. Performance of select varieties of Dianthus in Kansas

Cultivar Color/AAS Trial V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

Rose AAS Holdover 4.7 4.5 4.6 15 11 AAS Dash Crimson 3.8 4.0 3.9 11 8 PAS Dash Magician 4.0 3.8 3.9 12 10 PAS

Digitalis

These Digitalis were fast growing in the greenhouse and had to adjust a bit when planted out,

but had a good performance as a perennial.

Table 12. Performance of select varieties of Digitalis in Kansas


purpurea Purple 4.0 4.0 4.0 12 11 KFT

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Edibles

The vegetable entries had some difficulties with wet soil in the early season and struggled to get

going. The Patio Snacker cucumbers were quite productive despite their small size. The SimplyHerbs

varieties were very vigorous – they were still going strong into late October – and attractive for an edible

option in the garden. The container trials gave a better representation of the tomato cultivars’

performances.

Table 13. Performance of select varieties of Edibles in Kansas


Cucumber Patio Snacker 3.7 3.7 3.7 16 20 PAS SimplyHerbs Curled Parsley 4.3 3.7 4.0 12 14 PAS SimplyHerbs Oregano 4.3 4.0 4.2 16 20 PAS Tomato Heirloom Marriage

Big Brandy 3.8 3.7 3.8 40 20 PAS

Tomato Heirloom Marriage

Genuwine 3.8 3.7 3.8 42 22 PAS

Tomato Heirloom Marriage

Perfect Flame 3.7 3.7 3.7 42 23 PAS

Tomato Homeslice 3.3 3.7 3.5 21 18 PAS Tomato Orange Zinger 3.7 3.7 3.7 33 22 PAS (See also Container Grown – Edibles)

Euphorbia

The local deer singled out these plants soon after planting and they got a serious haircut!

Fortunately they bounced back relatively quickly (the container grown plants were unharmed). The Glitz

cultivar was a strong grower but did not have as prominent a flower display as some of the other

Euphorbia in the trials.

Table 14. Performance of select varieties of Euphorbia in Kansas


Glitz 4.0 4.0 4.0 15 16 PAS (See also Vegetatively Propagated and Container Grown – Euphorbia)

Gaillardia

This is a fantastic Gaillardia with a very long bloom time. Its bright color radiated for much of

the season.

Table 15. Performance of select varieties of Gaillardia in Kansas


aristata Peach 4.7 4.7 4.7 17 16 KFT

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Gaura

These plants had incredible uniformity and strong growth. The plot stayed blooming up through

late October. The only downside was the flowers cycling out of bloom at times.

Table 16. Performance of select varieties of Gaura in Kansas


lindheimerii White 5.0 3.8 4.4 33 19 KFT

Gazania

The Gazanias were better suited for container plantings, as they struggled with the rain and

temperature fluctuations in the field.

Table 17. Performance of select varieties of Gazania in Kansas


New Day Red 3.3 3.7 3.5 5 7 PAS New Day Yellow Imp. 3.3 3.7 3.5 5 7 PAS (See also Container Grown – Gazania)

Gomphrena

Fireworks is a new addition to the Prairie Star list. It proved to be a great choice for a large

landscape plant that provides abundant color with low water needs, as it thrived in locations throughout

the state.

Table 18. Performance of select varieties of Gomphrena in Kansas


Audray White 5.0 4.8 4.9 31 22 Local Fireworks 5.0 4.7 4.8 46 36 Local Las Vegas White 4.0 5.0 4.5 18 18 BEN (See also Vegetatively Propagated and Container Grown – Gomphrena)

Lavandula

The two lavenders were strong plants going into the field and had very solid performances in

the trials. The Ellagance in particular had great vigor, and both maintained color practically all season

long.

Table 19. Performance of select varieties of Lavandula in Kansas


Ellagance Purple 5.0 4.3 4.7 13 12 KFT Lavance 4.3 4.0 4.2 15 10 KFT

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Lobelia x speciosa

These dark-leaved Lobelias were impressive in their first trial year. The two Scarlet plots were in

different locations, and not surprisingly the wetter location had higher ratings. The flower spikes were

very attractive and it had a phenomenal bloom time for a perennial. The Vulcan Red cultivar had darker,

almost black, foliage, but bloomed later and the flower quality was not as high.

Table 20. Performance of select varieties of Lobelia in Kansas


Starship Scarlet 4.8 4.7 4.8 30 14 KFT Vulcan Red 4.8 3.7 4.3 30 14 KFT Scarlet 4.7 4.0 4.3 21 11 KFT

Marigold (Tagetes)

It was an excellent year for the Marigold cultivars. Durango Yellow was especially bright.

Table 21. Performance of select varieties of Marigold in Kansas


Bonanza Deep Orange 4.0 5.0 4.5 14 15 PAS Bonanza Yellow 4.3 5.0 4.7 15 13 PAS Durango Bolero 4.0 5.0 4.5 15 13 PAS Durango Tangerine 4.7 5.0 4.8 19 14 PAS Durango Yellow 5.0 5.0 5.0 22 15 PAS First Lady 4.3 4.7 4.5 22 16 Local Inca II Mix 4.3 5.0 4.7 19 13 Local

Ocimum (Basil)

Aromatto’s purple foliage made it an attractive option in the landscape or in cut flower

arrangements, with the added bonus, of course, of the edible and fragrant qualities of basil.

Table 22. Performance of select varieties of Ocimum in Kansas


Aromatto 4.5 4.3 4.4 32 24 Local

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Ornamental Pepper

NuMex Easter is certainly a novelty plant with its orange and purple peppers. It was quite

compact in a landscape bed, and could fit well in decorative fall container displays. The Holdover pepper

has great vigor and dark foliage color and is actually a nice plant for spicing up cut-flower bouquets (no

pun intended). The small peppers are not noticeable until very late in the season when they finally start

turning red.

Table 23. Performance of select varieties of Ornamental Pepper in Kansas

Cultivar AAS trial / Color V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

NuMex Easter 2014 AAS Winner 5.0 4.3 4.7 8 9 AAS Purple w/White Center AAS Holdover 5.0 3.7 4.3 30 24 AAS

Osteospermum

Akila Daisy White performed at a very high level for an Osteospermum in this area. The plants

stayed healthy and green all summer and always had a few blooms, though they peaked early in the

season before it got too hot.

Table 24. Performance of select varieties of Osteospermum in Kansas

Cultivar V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

Akila Daisy White 2014 AAS Winner 4.7 3.7 4.2 13 12 AAS (See also Vegetatively Propagated and Container Grown – Osteospermum)

Penstemon

Mexicalli Red had good vigor with average floriferousness.

Table 25. Performance of select varieties of Penstemon in Kansas


mexicalli Red 4.3 3.3 3.8 16 12 KFT

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Petunia

African Sunset was a show-stopper with its well behaved habit and a color like no other. Many

of the field Petunias were set back or done in by continuous rains soon after planting. The container

trials give a better representation of their season-long performance. The Success series was great to

grow in the greenhouse – the plants were compact and uniform and loaded with flowers. The Pink was

the best performing in the Olathe trials. The White did the best in western Kansas.

Table 26. Performance of select varieties of Petunia in Kansas

Cultivar Color/AAS V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

African Sunset 2014 AAS Winner 4.7 5.0 4.8 13 16 AAS Milliflora AAS Holdover 5.0 4.3 4.7 12 24 AAS Red 14BP01 4.7 4.3 4.5 12 14 AAS Easy Wave™ Red 14BP01C-1 4.3 4.0 4.2 13 20 AAS Trilogy™ Scarlet 14BP01C-3 4.0 4.0 4.0 9 12 AAS Milliflora AAS Holdover 5.0 4.3 4.7 12 24 AAS Ramblin'™ Red 14F01C-1 4.5 4.3 4.4 13 21 AAS Tidal Wave Cherry 14F01C-2 4.7 4.7 4.7 11 24 AAS Easy Wave Berry Velour 4.0 4.3 4.2 8 15 PAS Easy Wave Burgundy Velour 4.0 4.0 4.0 8 15 PAS Easy Wave Red Velour 3.7 4.0 3.8 9 17 PAS EZ Rider Deep Pink 1.3 1.3 1.3 - - PAS EZ Rider Deep Salmon 4.0 4.3 4.2 7 13 PAS EZ Rider Rose 3.0 2.7 2.8 - - PAS EZ Rider White 4.3 4.7 4.5 7 15 PAS Sophistica Twilight 2.7 2.5 2.6 - - PAS Success Blue 2.7 2.7 2.7 - - BEN Success Burgundy 4.0 4.3 4.2 9 10 BEN Success Pink 5.0 4.7 4.8 12 16 BEN Success Red 4.8 4.5 4.7 13 18 BEN Success Rose 4.0 4.5 4.3 7 9 BEN Success Salmon 4.3 4.7 4.5 8 10 BEN Success Violet 1.3 1.3 1.3 - - BEN

(See also Vegetatively Propagated and Container Grown – Petunia)

Perovskia (Russian Sage)

The AAS test variety had some advantages over the comparison, as it displayed more attractive

foliage in a tighter form.

Table 27. Performance of select varieties of Perovskia in Kansas

Cultivar AAS Trial V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

(test variety) AAS 14F02 4.0 4.0 4.0 30 20 AAS Taiga AAS 14F02C-1 3.7 3.5 3.6 31 14 AAS

22

Pre-Mixed Combinations

Healing Waters had a solid performance, although the planting was dominated by the more

aggressive petunia in the mix. The bacopa was practically invisible by mid-season.

Table 28. Performance of select varieties of Pre-Mixed Combinations in Kansas


Fuseables Healing Waters 4.3 4.3 4.3 15 22 PAS

(See also Container Grown – Pre-Mixed Combinations)

Rudbeckia

Chim Chiminee was an excellent new Rudbeckia mix with unusual quilled petals.

Table 29. Performance of select varieties of Rudbeckia in Kansas


Chim Chiminee 4.3 4.3 4.3 22 18 Local

Salvia coccinea

The AAS test variety looks to have high potential as a quality bedding plant. Summer Jewel Red –

a Prairie Star winner – also had a good year.

Table 30. Performance of select varieties of Salvia coccinea in Kansas

Cultivar Color/AAS V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

White AAS 14BP02 5.0 4.3 4.7 12 22 AAS Snow Nymph AAS 14BP02C-1 5.0 3.6 4.3 36 24 AAS Summer Jewel Red 5.0 4.0 4.5 24 22 ATK Summer Jewel Pink 4.3 4.0 4.2 20 16 ATK

Salvia nemorosa

This perennial had a good showing - it looked excellent in the greenhouse and had a relatively

long bloom time.

Table 31. Performance of select varieties of Salvia nemorosa in Kansas


Blue 4.5 3.7 4.1 12 9 KFT

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Statice

Table 32. Performance of select varieties of Statice in Kansas


Pacific Mix 4.2 4.0 4.1 31 15 Local

Sunflower (Helianthus)

It is difficult for Sunflowers to fit into our rating system, since their bloom time is relatively

short. This year’s All-American Selections entries, especially the test cultivars, were incredibly healthy

and robust. The large single blooms on the Semi-Dwarf cultivar were absolutely stunning in late July. It

overlapped with our public open house and everyone wanted to know when they could get ahold of

that seed. The Dwarf cultivar was well-branched and had high numbers of quality flowers.

Table 33. Performance of select varieties of Sunflower in Kansas

Cultivar AAS Trial V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

Dwarf 14F03 4.8 3.5 4.2 20 12 AAS Microsun 14F03C-1 4.8 3.2 4.0 22 16 AAS Ballad 14F03C-2 4.5 3.2 3.8 21 11 AAS Semi-Dwarf 14F04 4.8 3.5 4.2 42 16 AAS Prado Gold 14F04C-1 4.5 3.2 3.8 44 18 AAS Holiday 14F04C-2 4.8 3.0 3.9 44 24 AAS Premier Lemon 14F04C-3 4.5 3.2 3.8 18 12 AAS (See also Container Grown – Sunflower)

Vegetables – see Edibles

Vinca (Catharanthus)

Thrips were a bit of a nuisance on the Vinca this year. Despite that, many of the AAS entries and

comparisons had impressive vigor and quickly filled in the plots. The Vitesse Lavender Morn had the

least showy flower display, with smaller blooms than the other cultivars.

Table 34. Performance of select varieties of Vinca in Kansas

Cultivar Color/AAS Trial V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

Pink w/White Center 14BP03 5.0 4.0 4.5 17 18 AAS Titan Rose Halo 14BP03C-1 5.0 4.0 4.5 18 20 AAS Cora Lavender 14BP03C-2 5.0 4.0 4.5 16 18 AAS Vitesse Rose Morn 14BP03C-3 5.0 4.0 4.5 15 18 AAS Purple w/White Center 14BP04 4.3 4.0 4.2 18 18 AAS Titan Lavender Blue Halo 14BP04C-1 4.3 4.0 4.2 14 16 AAS Vitesse Lavender Morn 14BP04C-3 4.2 3.7 3.9 14 14 AAS Titan Lilac Imp. 4.2 4.0 4.1 14 16 PAS

24

Yarrow

Colorado was very slow to establish. The blooms were large, but the colors somewhat muted.

Table 35. Performance of select varieties of Yarrow in Kansas


Colorado Mix 3.3 3.0 3.2 23 11 Local

Zinnia

All the Zinnias did really well in the trials this year. UpTown Grape was a favorite in our county

Master Gardener demonstration gardens – its vigor is unmatched! It’s a great choice for mass plantings,

and with nice weather it stayed blooming well into late October in our gardens. Bridesmaid continued to

put on a great display of bright yellow double flowers. Similarly, the Dreamland colors stood out for

their large blooms and strong plants. Dreamland Red is a new addition to the Prairie Star list. The Zahara

cultivars continue to be excellent for the landscape. Starburst is exceptionally bright in color.

Table 36. Performance of select varieties of Zinnia in Kansas


Bridesmaid 4.7 4.9 4.8 26 18 PAS Dreamland Mix 4.3 5.0 4.7 28 17 Local Dreamland Red 4.7 4.8 4.8 22 17 ATK UpTown Grape 5.0 4.5 4.8 23 27 PAS Zahara Raspberry 5.0 4.2 4.6 14 15 PAS Zahara Starbust 4.7 5.0 4.8 14 16 PAS

25

General Field Trials

Vegetatively

Propagated Annuals

26

Vegetatively Propagated Annuals

Abutilon

Southern Charm had strong growth in the field trials, but the flowers point downward and

weren’t visible enough to make it a good landscape plant. It was better suited in the container trials,

where the flowers were raised up and visitors had more opportunity to inspect them up close.

Table 37. Performance of select varieties of Abutilon in Kansas


Southern Charm Flowering Maple 4.3 3.2 3.8 18 18 Local (See also Container Grown – Abutilon)

Angelonia

All the Angelonias did well in the trials, though some cycled out of bloom for a period in late

summer.

Table 38. Performance of select varieties of Angelonia in Kansas


Archangel Dark Purple 4.5 4.3 4.4 22 15 BFP Archangel Dark Rose 4.3 4.3 4.3 25 15 BFP Statuesque Blue 4.7 3.3 4.0 25 15 HC Statuesque Pink 5.0 3.3 4.2 27 18 HC Statuesque White 4.3 4.2 4.3 22 13 HC Sungelonia® Blue 4.3 4.7 4.5 20 14 SUN Sungelonia® Deep Pink 4.7 4.7 4.7 21 14 SUN Sungelonia® White 4.7 3.5 4.1 20 15 SUN

(See also, Seed Propagated and Container Grown – Angelonia)

27

Begonia

The Surefire colors are excellent performers and have been added to the Prairie Star list this

year. The Whoppers had another solid year with very colorful foliage and flowers. The other cultivars did

better in the shaded container trials.

Table 39. Performance of select varieties of Begonias in Kansas


Aurora 3.3 3.5 3.4 - - Local Painter's Palette 3.3 3.5 3.4 - - Local Ruby Slippers 3.3 3.5 3.4 - - Local Pegasus 3.7 3.8 3.8 10 10 PW Surefire Red 4.7 5.0 4.8 15 13 PW Surefire Rose 4.7 5.0 4.8 18 12 PW Whopper Bronze Leaf Red 4.5 5.0 4.8 16 15 Local Whopper Green Leaf Pink 4.5 5.0 4.8 13 14 Local (See also Seed Propagated and Container Grown – Begonia)

Bidens

Goldilocks Rocks continues to be an exceptional Bidens as the only one on the Prairie Star list.

Table 40. Performance of select varieties of Bidens in Kansas


Bidy Gonzales 2014 3.3 4.3 3.8 8 10 REDFOX Goldilocks Rocks 4.7 4.3 4.5 12 16 PW

Caladium

The Caladium cultivars did quite well in the full sun and wind exposure. While much smaller

than those grown in the shaded Container Trials, it demonstrates the versatility of these plants.

Table 41. Performance of select varieties of Caladium in Kansas


Fire and Ice 4.7 4.2 4.4 24 18 PW Heartfire 4.3 4.7 4.5 16 12 PW

(See also Container Grown – Caladium)

Calibrachoa

(See Container Grown – Calibrachoa)

28

Canna

Donna and Wilma were two colors in the Happy Canna series that received especially high

ratings. Both of them had exciting foliage color to go with the flowers. Donna displayed very dark,

almost black leaves with bright red blooms, while Wilma had slightly bronze leaves that brought out the

orange/coral shade of the flowers. All the Happy plants stayed compact with abundant shoots and

flowers.

Table 42. Performance of select varieties of Canna in Kansas


Happy Cleo 5.0 3.7 4.3 32 16 Local Happy Donna 5.0 4.7 4.8 36 19 Local Happy Joan 4.7 4.3 4.5 30 14 Local Happy Lilli 4.7 3.3 4.0 29 15 Local Happy Wilma 5.0 4.7 4.8 32 16 Local

(See also Seed Propagated and Container Grown – Canna)

Celosia

China Town performed very well this year, with many flower spikes and red foliage.

Table 43. Performance of select varieties of Celosia in Kansas


Celosia China Town 4.2 4.7 4.4 25 14 Local (See also Seed Propagated – Celosia)

Cleome

Pequena Rosalita is a nice new addition to the Proven Winners Cleome lineup. It stayed shorter

than the original Senorita Rosalita, but still displayed similar form and foliage. It would be good for

smaller landscape displays and was a nice option for a large container planting.

Table 44. Performance of select varieties of Cleome in Kansas


Pequena Rosalita 4.5 4.2 4.3 20 22 PW Senorita Blanca 4.5 4.2 4.3 32 24 PW Senorita Rosalita 4.5 4.2 4.3 32 26 PW

(See also Container Grown – Cleome)

29

Coleus/ Solenostemon

Lime Time looks to be a nice vibrant addition to the ColorBlaze series, much brighter than Life

Lime that has been previously trialed. Under the Sea King Crab is one of the best performing Coleus we

have trialed and has been added to the Prairie Star list. Its vigor is unmatched and the attractive foliage

makes it a real winner.

Table 45. Performance of select varieties of Coleus in Kansas


ColorBlaze Lime Time 4.0 4.7 4.3 22 15 PW ColorBlaze Keystone Kopper 4.5 4.3 4.4 28 20 PW ColorBlaze Marooned 4.7 4.3 4.5 34 22 PW Under the Sea Gold Anemone 4.7 4.2 4.4 25 20 HC Under the Sea King Crab 5.0 4.8 4.9 32 22 HC Under the Sea Sea Weed 4.3 3.0 3.7 24 17 HC (See also Seed Propagated and Container Grown – Coleus)

Cuphea

The Cuphea micropetala had very healthy shrub-like growth that slowed during the peak

summer heat but came on strong again when the weather cooled off. While it boasts attractive foliage

and a distinctive flower, the plants went out of bloom for much of the season.

Table 46. Performance of select varieties of Cuphea in Kansas

Cultivar V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

micropetala Tall Cigar Plant 4.5 3.3 3.9 35 28 Local (See also Container Grown – Cuphea)

Dahlia

The Hypnotica and Temptation colors had incredibly lush growth that filled in the plots quickly.

However, the floral display was lacking for much of the season with not enough blooms. The XXL colors

had much more visible flowers held above the foliage that colored the plots, with the Durango (yellow)

and Taxco (dark red) cultivars earning especially high marks.

Table 47. Performance of select varieties of Dahlia in Kansas


Hypnotica Lavender 5.0 3.3 4.2 18 15 ORO Hypnotica Orange Improved 4.7 3.3 4.0 15 15 ORO Hypnotica Pink Improved 5.0 3.3 4.2 10 14 ORO Temptation Pink Bicolor 5.0 3.3 4.2 16 14 ORO XXL Alamos 4.3 4.3 4.3 20 14 REDFOX XXL Durango 4.3 4.7 4.5 18 13 REDFOX XXL Paraisa 4.3 4.0 4.2 24 13 REDFOX XXL Taxco 4.7 4.3 4.5 27 16 REDFOX (See also Container Grown – Dahlia)

30

Echibeckia

Summerina Orange stood out in its first testing here. The plants had great uniformity and were

a solid mass of color during the peak of summer heat.

Table 48. Performance of select varieties of Echibeckia in Kansas


Summerina Orange 4.3 4.3 4.3 16 14 McH Summerina Yellow 4.0 3.7 3.8 17 11 McH (See also Container Grown – Echibeckia)

Euphorbia

The new Diamond Delight was impressive in the field and containers. It’s a smaller plant, and its

double flowers make the white color much more powerful. Stardust Super Flash had a solid first year

performance, handling the weather conditions well and putting on a very strong flower show.

Table 49. Performance of select varieties of Euphorbia in Kansas


Diamond Delight 4.4 5.0 4.7 10 12 PW Diamond Frost 5.0 4.0 4.5 16 18 PW Stardust Super Flash 4.3 5.0 4.7 11 15 REDFOX (See also Seed Propagated and Container Grown – Euphorbia)

Evolvulus

Blue My Mind was an outstanding performer in the K-State trials, thriving in the heat and

whatever else the weather throws at it. This year it was in full bloom up through late October, well after

the trials stopped receiving water and care.

Table 50. Performance of select varieties of Evolvulus in Kansas


Blue My Mind 5.0 4.3 4.7 8 15 PW (See also Container Grown – Evolvulus)

Geranium – see Pelargonium

31

Gomphrena

Pink Zazzle started off strong but quickly faded. The Qis series is well-adapted for landscape use

in this region, putting on a nice floral display.

Table 51. Performance of select varieties of Gomphrena in Kansas


Pink Zazzle 3.2 3.3 3.3 7 12 Local Qis Red 4.5 4.0 4.3 26 24 Local Qis Carmine 4.5 4.0 4.3 23 19 Local (See also Seed Propagated and Container Grown – Gomphrena)

Helichrysum

This Prairie Star winner had another great year in the trials; it quickly filled in the plot and

produced an endless color display.

Table 52. Performance of select varieties of Helichrysum in Kansas


Silver Leaf Yellow 4.7 4.7 4.7 11 16 SUN

Impatiens

The Big Bounce and Bounce hybrids were phenomenal in the trials this year. From planting until

fall, they were strong growers that were as florific as the best petunia or begonia. The ratings are

unusually high, but they reflect just how well these plants performed.

Table 53. Performance of select varieties of Impatiens in Kansas


Big Bounce Cherry 5.0 5.0 5.0 24 26 SEL Big Bounce Lavender 5.0 4.7 4.8 24 28 SEL Big Bounce Lilac 5.0 5.0 5.0 25 26 SEL Big Bounce Red 5.0 5.0 5.0 25 28 SEL Big Bounce Violet 5.0 5.0 5.0 23 24 SEL Big Bounce White 4.7 5.0 4.8 23 24 SEL Bounce Cherry 5.0 5.0 5.0 24 23 SEL Bounce Lilac 5.0 5.0 5.0 18 20 SEL Bounce Pink Flame 5.0 5.0 5.0 22 25 SEL Bounce Violet 5.0 5.0 5.0 17 20 SEL Bounce White 4.7 5.0 4.8 15 21 SEL (See also Container Grown – Impatiens)

32

Impatiens, New Guinea

The cooler summer temperatures (in addition to genetics!) helped make a big difference in the

grand showings for the New Guinea Impatiens. There were some terrific plants, especially Tamarinda

Orange Orchid. This plot was a solid dazzling color for all of late June.

Table 54. Performance of select varieties of New Guinea Impatiens in Kansas


Divine Blue Pearl 4.2 4.7 4.4 14 12 PAS Divine Burgundy 4.2 4.3 4.3 13 14 PAS Divine Orange 3.9 4.3 4.1 13 14 PAS Divine Orange Bronze Leaf 4.3 4.7 4.5 15 16 PAS Divine Scarlet Bronze Leaf 4.3 4.3 4.3 15 16 PAS Divine White Blush 4.0 4.3 4.2 12 13 PAS Ruffles Fuchsia Rose 4.3 4.7 4.5 10 12 PW Ruffles Lavender 4.5 4.7 4.6 12 12 PW Ruffles Peach 4.5 4.3 4.4 11 12 PW Ruffles Red 3.8 4.0 3.9 10 11 PW Tamarinda Max Purple 5.0 4.3 4.7 16 18 ORO Tamarinda Orange Orchid 5.0 4.7 4.8 17 18 ORO (See also Container Grown – Impatiens, New Guinea)

Ipomoea (Sweet Potato)

Ipomoea are great landscape plants and most always do well in the field trials, but due to heavy

deer pressure not all are planted in the landscape. Instead, all the cultivars are grown in protected

containers. The field varieties did have strong performances this year. South of the Border Chipotle was

a little more aggressive than the other cultivars, making it hard to contain. It also lost some of its

distinctive variegation when the weather turned hot.

Table 55. Performance of select varieties of Ipomoea in Kansas


Desana Bronze 4.3 4.3 4.3 16 34 SUN Desana Lime 4.7 4.8 4.8 16 36 SUN Desana Maple 4.7 4.3 4.5 16 31 SUN Illusion Emerald Lace 4.5 4.8 4.7 10 24 PW South of the Border Chipotle 4.7 3.7 4.2 14 48 HC Bewitched (Imp) 4.2 4.8 4.5 9 16 PW

(See also Container Grown - Ipomoea)

33

Lantana

The Little Lucky series is truly petite, but packs a nice flower display with the heat tolerance we

expect from Lantanas. Three colors have made it onto the Prairie Star list for 2015: Hot Pink, Pot of Gold,

and Red. Lucky Lavender is a very nice cultivar, with a larger form and beautifully colored flowers. The

Luscious cultivars had another robust year, and South Beach Purple Sky had strong growth, but its

flower display was better in the container trials.

Table 56. Performance of select varieties of Lantana in Kansas


Little Lucky Hot Pink 4.7 4.0 4.3 13 17 BFP Little Lucky Lemon Cream 4.3 4.0 4.2 9 16 BFP Little Lucky Orange 4.5 4.3 4.4 12 15 BFP Little Lucky Peach Glow 4.3 4.0 4.2 11 12 BFP Little Lucky Pot of Gold 4.7 4.5 4.6 14 17 BFP Little Lucky Red 5.0 4.2 4.6 14 17 BFP Lucky Lavender 5.0 4.3 4.7 21 22 BFP Luscious Berry Blend 5.0 4.0 4.5 15 20 PW Luscious Citrus Blend 5.0 4.0 4.5 26 30 PW Luscious Grape 5.0 3.7 4.3 18 25 PW Luscious Lemonade 5.0 4.3 4.7 20 24 PW Luscious Pina Colada 5.0 4.0 4.5 14 16 PW South Beach Purple Sky 5.0 3.7 4.3 14 14 HC (See also Container Grown - Lantana)

Lobelia erinus

Hard to believe such strong ratings for a Lobelia, but Bella Bianca 2014 was in full bloom all

season! Very impressive.

Table 57. Performance of select varieties of Lobelia in Kansas


Bella Bianca 2014 4.8 4.7 4.8 13 15 REDFOX (See also Container Grown – Lobelia)

34

Lobularia

The water and temperature fluctuations in the field threw the Lobularia cultivars off and they

cycled in and out of bloom. White Knight was unable to recover from saturated soils early in the season.

Table 58. Performance of select varieties of Lobularia in Kansas


Blushing Princess 4.3 4.0 4.2 8 16 PW Dark Knight 4.7 3.3 4.0 7 14 PW Frosty Knight 4.2 4.0 4.1 7 13 PW Snow Princess 4.2 4.0 4.1 7 15 PW White Knight 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - PW (See also Container Grown – Lobularia)

Mandevilla

(See Container Grown – Mandevilla)

Nicotiana

The Babybella plants were oversized going into the ground, but the plants recovered and put on

another flush of blooms by mid-season. This Nicotiana stayed compact and had an attractive growth

habit.

Table 59. Performance of select varieties of Nicotiana in Kansas


Babybella 4.3 4.0 4.2 23 15 Local

Osteospermum

Blue Eyed Beauty did not last the full season in the ground and was better suited to container

plantings in this area.

Table 60. Performance of select varieties of Osteospermum in Kansas


Blue Eyed Beauty 2.3 2.3 2.3 8 6 BFP (See also Seed Propagated and Container Grown – Osteospermum)

35

Ozothamnus

The shrub-like Radiance had aromatic foliage and long-lasting white flowers that worked well in

bouquets.

Table 61. Performance of select varieties of Ozothamnus in Kansas


Radiance 4.3 3.7 4.0 22 17 Local

(See also Container Grown – Ozothamnus)

Pentas

The Butterfly series of Pentas are all excellent in our trials.

Table 62. Performance of select varieties of Pentas in Kansas


Butterfly Red 4.5 4.0 4.3 16 14 Local Butterfly Deep Pink 4.5 4.0 4.3 17 14 Local

Pelargonium/ Geranium

It was a stellar year for the Pelargoniums. The Dixieland series was very impressive – incredibly

strong growth and vibrant flowers on long stems. Glitterati Ice Queen had tremendous vigor for a

variegated cultivar and it thrived in the summer heat. The Sarita Dark Red and Wild Salmon had rare

perfect scores, proving they can be excellent landscape choices.

Table 63. Performance of select varieties of Pelargonium in Kansas


Dixieland Deep Red 4.8 5.0 4.9 15 18 OGLEVEE Dixieland Orange 4.8 5.0 4.9 17 18 OGLEVEE Dynamo Bright Lilac 4.0 4.7 4.3 12 15 BFP Dynamo Dark Salmon 3.7 4.5 4.1 13 15 BFP Dynamo Light Pink 3.7 4.3 4.0 11 13 BFP Dynamo Red 4.0 4.8 4.4 12 12 BFP Dynamo Violet 3.7 4.5 4.1 10 10 BFP Glitterati Ice Queen 4.7 4.2 4.4 16 16 HC Sarita Dark Red 5.0 5.0 5.0 15 14 REDFOX Sarita Lilac Splash 5.0 4.7 4.8 13 12 REDFOX Sarita Wild Salmon 5.0 5.0 5.0 16 13 REDFOX Timeless Fire 4.3 4.0 4.2 14 13 PW Big Easy Red 4.3 4.3 4.3 10 10 Local Big Easy Pink 4.3 4.8 4.6 11 10 Local (See also Container Grown – Pelargonium)

36

Pennisetum

Sky Rocket looked fantastic planted en masse. The variegated foliage is a bonus, but the form

and seedheads make it a wonderful choice for an ornamental grass.

Table 64. Performance of select varieties of Pennisetum in Kansas


Graceful Grasses Sky Rocket 5.0 5.0 5.0 48 36 PW

(See also, Container Grown – Pennisetum)

Petunia

It was a challenging year for the petunias – the saturated soils from the June rains wiped many

of the cultivars out. Of the ones unaffected, many did very well in the field for the remainder of the

season. Supertunia Flamingo and Surfinia White Imp. are new additions to the Prairie Star list for 2015.

Some of the new Supertunia cultivars look to have potential, like Black Cherry and Morning Glory

Charm.



Fortunia Early Pink 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - ORO Fortunia Early Pink Lemonade 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - ORO Glamoflage Blueberry 4.3 4.0 4.2 7 16 HC Peppy Cerise 2.0 2.3 2.2 - - RED FOX Peppy Red 2.3 2.0 2.2 - - RED FOX Potunia Piccola Purple Ice 3.0 3.0 3.0 - - RED FOX Sun Spun Orange 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - BFP Suncatcher Blue Blast 4.3 4.2 4.3 8 14 BFP Suncatcher Plum Blast 4.3 4.2 4.3 7 16 BFP Suncatcher Vintage Rose 4.3 4.2 4.3 8 16 BFP Supertunia Bermuda Beach 3.8 4.3 4.1 6 13 PW Supertunia Black Cherry 4.2 4.7 4.4 9 16 PW Supertunia Bordeaux 3.8 4.5 4.2 8 18 PW Supertunia Flamingo 4.2 4.5 4.3 9 30 PW Supertunia Giant Pink 4.5 5.0 4.8 9 20 PW Supertunia Indigo Charm (Imp) 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - PW Supertunia Lavender Skies 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - PW Supertunia Limoncello 3.2 3.2 3.2 18 14 PW Supertunia Morning Glory Charm 4.8 5.0 4.9 10 15 PW Supertunia Orchid Charm 3.2 3.2 3.2 9 16 PW Supertunia Picasso in Pink 3.0 3.0 3.0 - - PW Supertunia Pink Charm 4.0 5.0 4.5 7 24 PW Supertunia Pretty Much Picasso 3.3 3.0 3.2 - - PW Supertunia Raspberry Blast 3.0 3.0 3.0 - - PW Supertunia Red 4.0 4.7 4.3 7 20 PW Supertunia Royal Magenta 5.0 5.0 5.0 9 24 PW Supertunia Royal Velvet 4.5 5.0 4.8 9 24 PW

37

Supertunia Sangria Charm 5.0 4.8 4.9 12 21 PW Supertunia Watermelon Charm 4.0 5.0 4.5 6 20 PW Supertunia White (Imp) 5.0 5.0 5.0 10 20 PW Supertunia Mini Appleblossom 4.7 5.0 4.8 9 18 PW Supertunia Mini Blue 4.0 4.0 4.0 8 16 PW Supertunia Mini Blue Veined 4.3 3.8 4.1 7 16 PW Supertunia Mini Bright Pink 4.0 3.8 3.9 7 16 PW Supertunia Mini Purple 4.5 4.7 4.6 6 17 PW Supertunia Mini Rose Veined (Imp) 2.2 2.0 2.1 - - PW Supertunia Mini Silver 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - PW Supertunia Mini Strawberry Pink Veined 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - PW Supertunia Mini White 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - PW Supertunia Vista Bubblegum 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - PW Supertunia Vista Fuchsia 4.7 5.0 4.8 14 26 PW Supertunia Vista Silverberry 5.0 5.0 5.0 20 36 PW Surfinia® Baby Deep Purple 4.5 4.7 4.6 7 20 SUN Surfinia® Blue Veined 5.0 4.7 4.8 10 22 SUN Surfinia® White Improved 4.2 4.3 4.3 8 18 SUN Surfinia® Wild Plum 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - SUN

(See also Seed Propagated and Container Grown – Petunia)

Plectranthus

The Plectranthus was extremely vigorous and rapidly filled in the field plot. The foliage had

some variegation and fuzzy texture, in addition to a strong scent when brushed up against or crushed.

Table 66. Performance of select varieties of Plectranthus in Kansas


variegatus 5.0 4.0 4.5 24 22 Local (See also Container Grown – Plectranthus)

Portulaca (Purslane)

The Orange color had the best performance of the RioGrande series. While vigorous, the plants

have a limited bloom period that varies with the sun and clouds.

Table 67. Performance of select varieties of Portulaca in Kansas


RioGrande Magenta 4.5 3.7 4.1 6 14 BFP RioGrande Orange 4.3 4.2 4.3 5 13 BFP RioGrande White 4.3 3.8 4.1 4 10 BFP RioGrande Yellow 4.5 3.7 4.1 6 14 BFP

(See also Container Grown – Portulaca)

38

Rosa

These roses were left in the field to overwinter from last year’s trial. The Sunrosa Red rose was

quite impressive in its floral display. The petite plants put on a strong showing of attractive red flowers.

Table 68. Performance of select varieties of Rosa in Kansas


Sunrosa Red 4.0 4.5 4.3 21 17 SUN Sunrosa Yellow 3.8 3.3 3.5 16 14 SUN Kolorscape Milano 3.5 3.0 3.3 14 15 BI Veranda Sunbeam 3.0 3.5 3.3 12 12 BI Kolorscape Flamingo 4.0 3.5 3.8 18 23 BI Veranda Lavender 3.5 3.5 3.5 19 20 BI Kolorscape Kardinal 4.5 3.5 4.0 22 20 BI Veranda Brilliant 4.5 3.8 4.1 20 22 BI Kolorscape Cheri 4.5 3.5 4.0 24 25 BI Veranda Chica 3.0 3.5 3.3 15 13 BI (See also Container Grown – Rosa)

Salvia farinacea

The two Salvias in the trial both had great showings. The shorter Mannequin Blue Mountain had

vibrant blue flowers on long spikes. The taller and bushier Playin’ the Blues was a darker blue/purple.

Table 69. Performance of select varieties of Salvia farinacea in Kansas


Mannequin Blue Mountain 4.7 4.7 4.7 27 17 HC Playin' the Blues 5.0 4.0 4.5 40 26 PW

Scaevola

The standout Scaevola this year was Surdiva White Improved – it boasted a terrific mounded

growth habit and blooms that made a complete circle around the stems. It was stunning in the field.

Table 70. Performance of select varieties of Scaevola in Kansas


Pink Wonder 4.0 5.0 4.5 7 15 PW Surdiva® Blue 5.0 4.5 4.8 8 17 SUN Surdiva® Light Blue 5.0 4.7 4.8 7 16 SUN Surdiva® White Improved 5.0 5.0 5.0 7 20 SUN (See also Container Grown – Scaevola)

39

Sutera

The Sutera cultivars were not able to handle the soil moisture and temperature changes in the

field and perished mid-season.

Table 71. Performance of select varieties of Sutera in Kansas


Snowstorm Blue Bubbles 3.3 3.3 3.3 6 12 PW Snowstorm Snow Globe 2.0 2.0 2.0 - - PW (See also Container Grown – Sutera)

Torenia

The Torenia cultivars thrived in this year’s trial conditions, having better than usual ratings. They

are undeniably strong growers, it’s just a matter of the flower display during the peak summer heat.

Table 72. Performance of select varieties of Torenia in Kansas


Catalina Gilded Grape 4.3 4.0 4.2 12 17 PW Catalina Grape -O-Licious 4.7 3.8 4.3 13 18 PW Catalina Midnight Blue 5.0 4.0 4.5 18 20 PW Catalina Pink 4.7 4.1 4.4 14 19 PW Catalina White Linen 5.0 4.3 4.7 16 20 PW (See also Container Grown – Torenia)

Verbena

The Verbena section was hit with some flooding in June and some of the cultivars could not

recover from the saturated soils. The ones that did hang in, though, ended up growing very strong for

the remainder of the season. Once the weather turned hot there was some cycling out of bloom, but

some of the strongest performers were: EnduraScape Dark Purple; Superbena Dark Blue; Superbena

Royale Chambray, Cherryburst, Silverdust and Whitecap; Temari Blue, Candy Stripe and Patio Hot Pink.

Table 73. Performance of select varieties of Verbena in Kansas


Empress Burgundy Charme 4.5 3.7 4.1 10 21 REDFOX Empress Dark Red 2014 4.5 3.3 3.9 10 23 REDFOX EnduraScape Blue 4.5 3.6 4.1 10 23 BFP EnduraScape Dark Purple 4.7 3.9 4.3 15 21 BFP EnduraScape Dark Rose 4.3 4.0 4.2 9 18 BFP EnduraScape Hot Pink 4.5 3.7 4.1 8 22 BFP EnduraScape Lavender 3.3 2.7 3.0 - - BFP EnduraScape Red 4.0 3.7 3.8 8 18 BFP Lindolena Blue 2.2 1.7 1.9 - - ORO Lindolena Neon 2.2 1.7 1.9 - - ORO

40

Little One 4.0 4.0 4.0 16 13 Local Superbena Burgundy 5.0 3.3 4.2 16 24 PW Superbena Coral Red (Imp) 5.0 3.3 4.2 11 23 PW Superbena Dark Blue 5.0 3.7 4.3 15 24 PW Superbena Large Lilac Blue 5.0 3.3 4.2 15 24 PW Superbena Pink Shades 5.0 3.3 4.2 15 24 PW Superbena Purple 5.0 3.3 4.2 16 25 PW Superbena Violet Ice 4.8 3.3 4.1 14 23 PW Superbena Royale Chambray 5.0 4.0 4.5 6 18 PW Superbena Royale Iced Cherry 5.0 3.0 4.0 7 20 PW Superbena Royale Cherryburst 5.0 3.7 4.3 8 20 PW Superbena Royale Peachy Keen 4.5 3.3 3.9 7 18 PW Superbena Royale Plum Wine 5.0 3.3 4.2 10 21 PW Superbena Royale Red 5.0 3.3 4.2 10 20 PW Superbena Royale Silverdust 5.0 4.0 4.5 6 20 PW Superbena Royale Whitecap 5.0 4.0 4.5 11 22 PW Temari® Blue 4.7 4.0 4.3 11 19 SUN Temari® Candy Stripe 4.7 4.0 4.3 9 19 SUN Temari® Cherry Red 5.0 3.3 4.2 12 22 SUN Temari® Patio Blue 4.5 3.3 3.9 10 20 SUN Temari® Patio Hot Pink 4.5 4.0 4.3 15 22 SUN (See also Container Grown – Verbena)

41

Container Grown Trials

42

Container Grown Trials

Abutilon

The Southern Charm flowering maple is a nice specimen plant that grew well in the container

trials and boasted a pretty apricot and orange bloom, but the flowers point downward instead of

greeting the viewer. They need to be placed somewhere that allows visitors time to inspect them.

Table 74. Container grown performance of select varieties of Abutilon in Kansas


Southern Charm 4.2 3.3 3.8 20 22 Local

(See also Vegetatively Propagated – Abutilon)

Angelonia

Angelonias are great choices for container plantings, and the ones in the trial this year all did

well. Archangel Dark Rose and Statuesque Pink had especially strong vigor and floriferousness

combinations.

Table 75. Container grown performance of select varieties of Angelonia in Kansas


Archangel Dark Rose 4.7 4.7 4.7 22 14 BFP Archangel Dark Purple 4.0 4.7 4.3 18 12 BFP Statuesque Blue 4.7 4.2 4.4 23 16 HC Statuesque Pink 4.7 4.7 4.7 23 16 HC (See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Angelonia)

43

Begonia

The BIG Begonias have always done well here, and the new Green Leaf Pink color is no

exception. Surefire was a little more vigorous coming out of the greenhouse, probably owing to it being

a vegetative variety instead of seed propagated. This series is now on the Prairie Star list. Pegasus is a

great choice for a shade foliage plant.

Table 76. Container grown performance of select varieties of Begonia in Kansas, grown in shade


BIG Bronze Leaf Red 4.3 4.3 4.3 13 15 BEN BIG Bronze Leaf Rose 4.3 4.7 4.5 13 16 BEN BIG Green Leaf Pink 4.3 4.3 4.3 16 18 BEN BIG Green Leaf Red 4.3 4.7 4.5 13 15 BEN Pegasus 5.0 4.0 4.5 23 32 PW Surefire Red 5.0 4.3 4.7 15 18 PW Surefire Rose 5.0 4.3 4.7 18 20 PW Aurora 4.0 4.0 4.0 9 12 Local Painter's Palette 4.0 3.5 3.8 10 14 Local Ruby Slippers 4.0 3.5 3.8 10 13 Local (See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Begonia)

Caladium

These Caladium cultivars were a huge draw in the shade container area. The Fire and Ice was

large and vigorous, quickly filling in the pot with beautiful red and white leaves. Heartfire was much

more compact, with very attractive red and green foliage.

Table 77. Container grown performance of select varieties of Caladium in Kansas, shade


Fire and Ice 5.0 5.0 5.0 30 30 PW Heartfire 4.7 5.0 4.8 20 24 PW (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Caladium)

44

Calibrachoa

After a second year of very high ratings, new additions to the Prairie Star list include Can-Can

Purple Star, Dark Purple and Hot Pink Star; and Superbells Cherry Blossom, Pomegranate Punch and

Scarlet. Showing great potential are the Cabaret colors, with the White Imp receiving a very rare perfect

score for the season. Aloha Tiki Neon was one of the most florific cultivars at the end of the season, with

the pot being a solid mass of bright color.

Table 78. Container grown performance of select varieties of Calibrachoa in Kansas


Aloha Hula Orange 2.7 2.7 2.7 - - REDFOX Aloha Purple Sky 3.0 2.7 2.8 - - REDFOX Aloha Hula Gold 4.0 4.3 4.2 8 30 REDFOX Aloha Tiki Neon 5.0 4.3 4.7 7 28 REDFOX Cabaret Rose Improved 4.7 4.3 4.5 7 28 BFP Cabaret Purple Improved 5.0 4.3 4.7 5 34 BFP Cabaret White Improved 5.0 5.0 5.0 8 36 BFP Cabaret Deep Yellow 4.7 4.7 4.7 8 30 BFP Can-Can Purple Star 4.7 4.0 4.3 8 28 BFP Can-Can Dark Purple 5.0 4.3 4.7 12 36 BFP Can-Can Peach 5.0 4.3 4.7 8 30 BFP Can-Can Hot Pink Star 5.0 4.3 4.7 10 38 BFP Conga Blush 5.0 4.7 4.8 7 32 BFP Conga Lemon 4.0 4.0 4.0 7 23 BFP Conga Strawberry Burst 4.0 4.0 4.0 6 28 BFP Conga Orange 4.2 4.3 4.3 8 28 BFP Isabells Coral Reef 5.0 4.3 4.7 9 32 BHG Lindura Light Blue 4.3 4.5 4.4 8 30 ORO Lindura Pink 5.0 4.3 4.7 7 31 ORO Lindura White Yellow Heart 4.8 4.3 4.6 9 32 ORO MiniFamous Double Purple 4.7 4.3 4.5 6 32 SEL MiniFamous Double Chiffon 4.7 4.3 4.5 6 27 SEL Superbells Apricot Punch 5.0 4.3 4.7 9 32 PW Superbells Blackberry Punch 4.7 4.3 4.5 13 36 PW

Superbells Blue 4.7 4.3 4.5 10 36 PW Superbells Cherry Blossom 5.0 4.3 4.7 10 36 PW Superbells Cherry Red (Imp) 5.0 4.3 4.7 11 38 PW Superbells Cherry Star 4.7 4.3 4.5 11 30 PW Superbells Coralberry Punch 4.7 4.3 4.5 10 32 PW Superbells Dreamsicle 5.0 5.0 5.0 13 40 PW Superbells Frostfire 4.2 4.2 4.2 8 22 PW Superbells Grape Punch 5.0 4.2 4.6 10 36 PW Superbells Lemon Slice 4.7 4.3 4.5 9 30 PW Superbells Miss Lilac 5.0 4.3 4.7 13 38 PW Superbells Pink 5.0 4.7 4.8 9 28 PW Superbells Plum 5.0 4.3 4.7 9 38 PW Superbells Red 5.0 4.3 4.7 11 28 PW

Superbells Pomegranite Punch 5.0 4.3 4.7 14 40 PW

45

Superbells Saffron 5.0 4.3 4.7 10 30 PW Superbells Scarlet 5.0 4.3 4.7 9 29 PW Superbells Spicy 2.7 2.7 2.7 - - PW Superbells Strawberry Punch 5.0 4.7 4.8 11 32 PW Superbells Sweet Tart 4.7 4.3 4.5 10 36 PW Superbells Tequila Sunrise (Imp) 3.0 2.7 2.8 - - PW Superbells Tickled Pink 4.7 4.3 4.5 12 32 PW Superbells White (Imp) 4.7 4.7 4.7 9 36 PW Superbells Yellow 5.0 4.3 4.7 11 38 PW Superbells Yellow Chiffon 5.0 4.7 4.8 11 40 PW

Canna

With relatively short heights, the cannas in the trials were easily adaptable as large container

plants. The Cannova series were the tallest at 38” and the Rose color was particularly florific. The Happy

Carmen and Wilma were the highest rated in that series, with Donna also being a particularly

noteworthy cultivar with its very dark foliage.

Table 79. Container grown performance of select varieties of Canna in Kansas


Cannova Red Shades 4.7 4.3 4.5 38 19 BI Cannova Rose 5.0 4.3 4.7 38 20 BI Cannova Yellow 4.7 4.1 4.4 38 22 BI Happy Carmen 5.0 4.3 4.7 28 16 Local Happy Cleo 5.0 3.7 4.3 37 22 Local Happy Donna 5.0 3.7 4.3 34 19 Local Happy Joan 4.7 3.3 4.0 26 20 Local Happy Lilli 4.7 3.3 4.0 25 18 Local Happy Wilma 5.0 4.7 4.8 35 17 Local (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Canna)

Caryopteris

This shrub was a healthy grower that provided some very late season color with its blue blooms.

Table 80. Container grown performance of select varieties of Caryopteris in Kansas


Good as Gold 4.3 3.8 4.1 21 28 Local

46

Cleome

The compact Pequena Rosalita has a similar look as the original Senorita Rosalita, and is much

better suited to mixed container plantings. It made for a great upright centerpiece in a large pot.

Table 81. Container grown performance of select varieties of Cleome in Kansas


Pequena Rosalita 4.3 4.3 4.3 26 24 PW

(See also Vegetatively Propagated– Cleome)

Coleus (Solenostemon)

The new Coleus additions to the Prairie Star list also proved to be well-adapted for container

use. Kong Jr. Scarlet, Premium Sun Mighty Mosaic, and Under the Sea King Crab all looked great.

Table 82. Container grown performance of select varieties of Coleus in Kansas, grown in shade


ColorBlaze Keystone Kopper 5.0 4.2 4.6 25 28 PW ColorBlaze Lime Time 4.8 3.7 4.3 28 34 PW ColorBlaze Marooned 5.0 4.3 4.7 30 36 PW Kong Lime Sprite 5.0 4.0 4.5 27 34 PAS Kong Jr. Lime Vein 5.0 4.0 4.5 27 32 PAS Kong Jr. Rose 5.0 4.0 4.5 24 30 PAS Kong Jr. Scarlet 5.0 4.3 4.7 28 33 PAS Premium Sun Mighty Mosaic 5.0 4.3 4.7 25 34 PAS Under the Sea Gold Anemone 4.7 4.0 4.3 18 24 HC Under the Sea King Crab 5.0 4.3 4.7 30 36 HC Under the Sea Sea Weed 3.8 3.0 3.4 18 20 HC (See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Coleus)

Cuphea

Vermillionaire had a strong performance in the container trials. It came on strong in mid to late

summer. The blooms are prolific but still delicate – it’s a plant best viewed up close to appreciate the

uniqueness. We noticed that seasoned gardeners who were looking for new and different plants were

especially drawn to this container. The micropetala had very strong growth, but cycled in bloom.

Table 83. Container grown performance of select varieties of Cuphea in Kansas


micropetala Tall Cigar Plant 4.7 3.0 3.8 36 29 Local Vermillionaire 4.3 4.0 4.2 22 28 Local (See also Vegetatively Propagated– Cuphea)

47

Dahlia

The XXL series was impressive in containers – they displayed a good balance of strong growth

and showy blooms. The Hypnotica and Temptation cultivars were very vigorous, but did not stay in

bloom all season.

Table 84. Container grown performance of select varieties of Dahlia in Kansas


Hypnotica Orange Improved 4.7 3.0 3.8 14 16 ORO Hypnotica Pink Improved 4.7 3.0 3.8 14 16 ORO Temptation Pink Bicolor 4.3 3.3 3.8 13 18 ORO XXL Alamos 5.0 3.3 4.2 17 18 REDFOX XXL Durango 4.7 4.0 4.3 17 15 REDFOX XXL Paraisa 4.3 4.3 4.3 24 16 REDFOX XXL Taxco 5.0 3.8 4.4 25 18 REDFOX (See also Vegetatively Propagated– Dahlia)

Dipladenia

A cheerful addition to any container, the Summer Romance Yellow color had gorgeous buttery

flowers on attractive vining foliage. It was not quite as vigorous as the other Mandevillas in the

container trials.

Table 85. Container grown performance of select varieties of Dipladenia in Kansas


Summer Romance Vining Yellow 4.0 4.3 4.2 32 18 BI

Echibeckia

These new plants (cross between Echinacea and Rudbeckia) seemed right at home in the Kansas

climate. The Summerina Orange cultivar was especially attractive with strong growth and uniform

flowers, and made for a great container display.

Table 86. Container grown performance of select varieties of Echibeckia in Kansas


Summerina Yellow 4.3 4.0 4.2 21 14 Local Summerina Orange 4.5 4.2 4.3 19 15 Local

(See also Vegetatively Propagated – Echibeckia)

48

Edibles

For the following herbs, fruits, and vegetables, the ratings were adapted to take yield into

consideration instead of only floriferousness. The Patio Snacker cucumber was a perfect container plant.

The harvest from three plants was abundant and the plants stayed strong through early August. The

onions were a huge hit in containers. Easy to grow, the bulbs were baseball and softball sized at harvest

time. The two SimplyHerbs were easy to grow from seed and did incredibly well in their containers. The

Parsley was unfazed by the heat and the Oregano even put on an attractive flower display late in the

season.

As far as tomatoes go, some of the Heirloom Marriage cultivars were a bit large for containers,

but all the plants were trellised and had strong growth. Big Brandy was a staff favorite for its perfect-

looking heirloom style fruits (no green shoulders!) and great taste, although it was not as prolific as the

other cultivars. Genuwine and Perfect Flame had the largest yields of the Heirloom Marriage series,

while Homeslice seemed to have troubles with sunscald. The hands-down kids’ favorite was Orange

Zinger – wow, did it have a long season – the fruit never lasted long on the vines before little fingers

found them! It was a perfect tomato for quick snacking and tasted great. It was pretty large for

containers without serious staking. The AAS tomatoes were rated in the vegetable, not flower, category.

Fantastico was the best performing of that group.

Table 87. Container grown performance of select varieties of Edibles in Kansas


Brazelberry Raspberry Shortcake 4.0 3.3 3.7 15 29 Local Cucumber Patio Snacker 4.2 4.2 4.2 22 32 PAS Onion Red Zepplin 4.3 4.0 4.2 Onion Big Daddy 4.3 4.0 4.2 Oregano AAS 14V11 4.7 3.5 4.1 8 20 AAS Oregano, Greek AAS 14V11C-1 3.7 3.7 3.7 15 18 AAS Oregano, Italian AAS 14V11C-2 4.0 3.7 3.8 17 20 AAS SimplyHerbs Curled Parsley 4.7 4.0 4.3 10 18 PAS SimplyHerbs Oregano 4.7 4.0 4.3 16 22 PAS

Tomato Heirloom Marriage Big Brandy

4.7 4.0 4.3 38 48 PAS

Tomato Heirloom Marriage Genuwine

4.7 4.3 4.5 38 36 PAS

Tomato Heirloom Marriage Perfect Flame

4.7 4.3 4.5 34 26 PAS

Tomato Homeslice 4.7 4.0 4.3 30 30 PAS Tomato Orange Zinger 4.7 4.3 4.5 36 42 PAS

Tomato Dwarf, Heart Shape AAS 14V22

3.0 3.7 3.3 10 19 AAS

Tomato Fantastico AAS 14V22C-1

3.7 3.7 3.7 11 28 AAS

Tomato Sweet 'N Neat Scarlet AAS 14V22C-2

3.0 3.0 3.0 10 10 AAS

Tomato Tomtoberry AAS 14V22C-3

3.3 3.7 3.5 32 36 AAS

(See also Seed Propagated – Edibles)

49

Euphorbia

The three Euphorbias all had differing looks. Diamond Delight had the densest white color of

them all, with a compact form and double flowers that really concentrated the flower impact. Glitz was

much more open and airy – very strong growth that would be better as a filler and less useful as a focal

point. Star Dust Super Flash was in the middle with less vigorous growth, but a great flower display for a

container Euphorbia.

Table 88. Container grown performance of select varieties of Euphorbia in Kansas


Diamond Delight 4.7 4.7 4.7 14 22 Local Glitz 4.8 4.0 4.4 17 27 Local Star Dust Super Flash 4.0 4.7 4.3 14 18 REDFOX

(See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Euphorbia)

Evolvulus

This heat-loving and long-blooming cultivar had another excellent year in the container trial. It

shows a great blue color.

Table 89. Container grown performance of select varieties of Evolvulus in Kansas


Blue My Mind 5.0 4.0 4.5 6 18 PW (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Evolvulus)

Gazania

New Day Red had very strong growth in the container trials, but the blooms were reduced in

the peak of summer heat. The Yellow Imp had nice brightly-colored flowers.

Table 90. Container grown performance of select varieties of Gazania in Kansas


New Day Yellow Imp. 4.0 4.0 4.0 9 9 PAS New Day Red 4.7 3.7 4.2 11 12 PAS (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Gazania)

Geranium – see Pelargonium

50

Gomphrena

When in bloom, Pink Zazzle has a unique look that everyone gets excited about. Its

performance in the Kansas climate, however, was lackluster. There were not enough flowers during the

peak of the summer.

Table 91. Container grown performance of select varieties of Gomphrena in Kansas


Pink Zazzle 3.3 3.3 3.3 11 13 Local (See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Gomphrena)

Hesperozygis

The Supermint colors were cute container plants. As expected, the foliage had a great scent,

but the flowers were very small and did not make much of a color impact.

Table 92. Container grown performance of select varieties of Hesperozygis in Kansas


Supermint Midnight Mojito 3.3 3.3 3.3 11 13 Local Supermint Sunrise Mojito 3.7 3.3 3.5 6 14 Local

Impatiens

Similarly to their performance in the ground, the Bounce and Big Bounce series were fantastic in

the container trials. There were slightly fewer flowers on the shade-grown pots, but they were still

excellent displays of color, with Bounce Pink Flame having the slightest edge on the other colors. The

Divine series of New Guinea Impatiens excelled in the shade container trials, filling in the pots nicely and

displays loads of blooms. The Ruffles series struggled more with the summer heat, while the Tamarinda

colors – Orange Orchid especially – were great choices for shade.

Table 93. Container grown performance of select varieties of Impatiens in Kansas, grown in shade


Big Bounce Cherry 5.0 4.3 4.7 23 34 SEL Big Bounce Lavender 5.0 4.3 4.7 21 34 SEL Big Bounce Lilac 5.0 4.3 4.7 22 30 SEL Big Bounce Red 5.0 4.3 4.7 23 32 SEL Big Bounce Violet 5.0 4.3 4.7 19 27 SEL Big Bounce White 5.0 4.3 4.7 19 29 SEL Bounce Cherry 5.0 4.3 4.7 20 28 SEL Bounce Lilac 4.7 4.0 4.3 20 28 SEL Bounce Pink Flame 5.0 4.7 4.8 16 25 SEL Bounce Violet 4.7 4.0 4.3 15 24 SEL Bounce White 4.7 4.7 4.7 13 25 SEL Divine Blue Pearl 5.0 4.3 4.7 18 24 PAS Divine Burgundy 5.0 4.3 4.7 18 24 PAS

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Divine Orange 5.0 4.3 4.7 18 24 PAS Divine Orange Bronze Leaf 5.0 4.3 4.7 19 26 PAS Divine Scarlet Bronze Leaf 5.0 4.3 4.7 14 22 PAS Divine White Blush 4.3 4.3 4.3 18 27 PAS Ruffles Fuchsia Rose 3.3 4.0 3.7 9 14 PW Ruffles Lavender 4.0 4.3 4.2 12 18 PW Ruffles Peach 4.0 4.2 4.1 10 15 PW Ruffles Red 4.3 4.0 4.2 10 12 PW Tamarinda Max Purple 5.0 4.3 4.7 15 20 ORO Tamarinda Orange Orchid 4.7 5.0 4.8 14 18 ORO (See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Impatiens)

Ipomoea

The Ipomoea containers were kept in the shade to reduce the possibility of deer damage, but

the cultivars still thrived. The new South of the Border Chipotle was a strong grower, but the green and

black patterning was unstable and reverted to all green in the summer. The Bewitched Imp was

especially attractive this year, garnering much attention from visitors.

Table 95. Container grown performance of select varieties of Ipomoea in Kansas, in shade


Desana ® Bronze 5.0 4.7 4.8 15 48 SUN Desana ® Lime 5.0 4.7 4.8 13 48 SUN Desana ® Maple 5.0 4.7 4.8 16 48 SUN Illusion Emerald Lace 5.0 4.7 4.8 13 48 PW Illusion Garnet Lace 5.0 4.7 4.8 12 48 PW Illusion Midnight Lace 5.0 4.7 4.8 16 48 PW South of the Border Chipotle 5.0 3.2 4.1 14 40 HC Sweet Caroline Bewitched (Imp) 5.0 4.7 4.8 12 40 PW Sweet Caroline Bronze 5.0 4.7 4.8 15 48 PW Sweet Caroline Green Yellow 5.0 3.0 4.0 15 48 PW Sweet Caroline Light Green 5.0 4.7 4.8 12 40 PW Sweet Caroline Raven 5.0 4.7 4.8 13 40 PW Sweet Caroline Red 5.0 4.7 4.8 14 48 PW Sweet Caroline Sweetheart Lt Green 5.0 4.7 4.8 11 40 PW Sweet Caroline Sweetheart Purple 5.0 4.7 4.8 15 55 PW Sweet Caroline Sweetheart Red 5.0 4.7 4.8 15 48 PW (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Ipomoea)

52

Lantana

The smaller Lantanas are great for medium sized container plantings. Little Lucky Red and

Peach Glow were the strongest performers in that series. Lucky Lavender was larger, but one of the

most florific in the container trials. South Beach Purple Sky had one of the nicest color combinations of

the Lantanas – pale purple surrounding a yellow center – making it stand out.

Table 96. Container grown performance of select varieties of Lantana in Kansas


Little Lucky Hot Pink 4.7 3.7 4.2 12 14 BFP Little Lucky Red 5.0 4.0 4.5 10 12 BFP Little Lucky Pot of Gold 4.7 4.0 4.3 11 15 BFP Little Lucky Orange 4.0 4.0 4.0 12 12 BFP Little Lucky Peach Glow 5.0 4.0 4.5 13 14 BFP Little Lucky Lemon Cream 4.3 4.0 4.2 9 12 BFP Lucky Lavender 5.0 4.3 4.7 17 21 BFP Luscious Marmalade 4.0 3.3 3.7 9 12 PW Luscious Berry Blend 4.0 3.3 3.7 8 11 PW Luscious Pina Colada 4.7 4.0 4.3 12 15 PW Luscious Bananarama 4.0 3.3 3.7 13 14 PW South Beach Purple Sky 4.7 4.3 4.5 14 17 HC (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Lantana)

Lobelia

Bianca 2014 hung in there through the peak of the summer heat, putting on a nice show of

white flowers all season.

Table 97. Container grown performance of select varieties of Lobelia in Kansas


Bianca 2014 4.0 4.3 4.2 10 13 REDFOX (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Lobelia)

Lobularia

Dark Knight had some troubles with its purple flowers cycling in and out of bloom. The other

Lobularia cultivars did quite well. Frosty Knight and White Knight are well mannered cultivars that are

especially good choices for containers.

Table 98. Container grown performance of select varieties of Lobularia in Kansas

Cultivar Color V F Overall Ht(in) Wd (in) Source

Dark Knight 4.7 3.3 4.0 10 19 PW Frosty Knight 4.7 4.0 4.3 9 22 PW Snow Princess 4.7 3.7 4.2 12 24 PW White Knight 4.7 4.0 4.3 9 22 PW Blushing Princess 4.7 3.7 4.2 12 22 PW (See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Lobularia)

53

Mandevilla

The Sun Parasol Crimson had one of its best years yet with very vigorous growth. Giant Pink

continues to impress – its vines skyrocketed to the top of its trellis and the plants were loaded with

blooms all summer long. (The 72” height on the Giant cultivars represents the trellis height; the plants

likely would have grown taller on a taller trellis.)

Table 99. Container grown performance of select varieties of Mandevilla in Kansas


Sun Parasol Giant White 4.3 4.0 4.2 72 24 SUN Sun Parasol Giant Crimson 4.3 4.3 4.3 72 24 SUN Sun Parasol Giant Pink 5.0 4.8 4.9 72 24 SUN Sun Parasol Crimson 4.7 4.8 4.8 24 27 SUN

Nematanthus

These petite plants were not especially flashy in the container trials. However, at the very end

of the growing season (September/October) they attracted attention for their unusual flowers and thick

glossy foliage. The Extension Master Gardeners were all excited about these little plants as something

different for the patio, but their use may be somewhat limited.

Table 100. Container grown performance of select varieties of Nierembergia in Kansas


Shady Ladies Marlene 3.3 3.3 3.3 6 10 Local Shady Ladies Heidy 3.3 3.0 3.2 6 10 Local Shady Ladies Mae 3.3 3.0 3.2 6 10 Local

Osteospermum

The Blue Eyed Beauty plants were healthy, but did not produce many blooms when the weather

turned hot.

Table 101. Container grown performance of select varieties of Osteospermum in Kansas


Blue Eyed Beauty 4.0 3.3 3.7 10 13 BFP (See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Osteospermum)

Ozothamnus

Radiance was an interesting plant with woody stems and fragrant foliage.

Table 102. Container grown performance of select varieties of Ozothamnus in Kansas


Radiance 4.0 3.7 3.8 23 16 Local

(See also Vegetatively Propagated – Ozothamnus)

54

Passaflora

The flowers on Aphrodite’s Purple Nightie are so intricate and beautiful; you just want to take

pictures of them all day long! It’s a plant to be seen up close while sitting or standing still. The vine is

delicate looking and the plant was a bit slow to get started in the season.

Table 103. Container grown performance of select varieties of Passaflora in Kansas


Aprhodite's Purple Nightie 4.3 3.7 4.0 56 16 Local

Pelargonium/ Geranium

With the cooler spring temperatures we did dis-bud the Geraniums to encourage plant growth

early in the season. Most had very solid performances, with the Dixieland colors being especially

impressive. Sarita Wild Salmon is a new Prairie Star addition this year and it has done well in both the

ground and containers. Glitterati Ice Queen is a variegated variety that was a very strong grower.

Table 104. Container grown performance of select varieties of Geranium in Kansas

Cultivar Color V F Overall Ht(in) Wd (in) Source

Big Easy Red 3.7 4.0 3.8 8 10 Local Big Easy Pink 4.3 4.5 4.4 8 10 Local Dixieland Deep Red 5.0 4.7 4.8 13 12 OGLEVEE Dixieland Orange 4.3 4.7 4.5 15 12 OGLEVEE Dynamo Bright Lilac 4.0 4.7 4.3 10 11 BFP Dynamo Violet 4.0 4.3 4.2 9 9 BFP Dynamo Light Pink 3.7 4.0 3.8 10 10 BFP Dynamo Dark Salmon 4.0 4.5 4.3 12 9 BFP Glitterati Ice Queen 4.5 4.0 4.3 12 11 HC Sarita Dark Red 4.7 4.3 4.5 12 11 REDFOX Sarita Lilac Splash 4.3 4.7 4.5 11 11 REDFOX Sarita Wild Salmon 4.8 4.3 4.6 13 13 REDFOX Timeless Fire 4.7 4.3 4.5 13 14 REDFOX (See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Pelargonium)

Pennisetum

Sky Rocket was a big hit as the centerpiece of a mixed container planting. It didn’t overwhelm

the pot, although it did start losing some variegation in August. Despite that, it still had showy plumes

that added to its appeal.

Table 105. Container grown performance of select varieties of Pennisetum in Kansas


Sky Rocket 4.8 4.5 4.7 40 26 PW (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Pennisetum)

55

Petunia

There are so many great container Petunia varieties! The Easy Wave Velour colors got washed

out in the field, so it was good to see them perform in containers. The flowers are indeed velvety,

especially the Burgundy. The growth was quite strong, making them some of the tallest of the Petunias

in containers this year. The Fortunias were compact and very colorful, with the Pink Lemonade

displaying an especially attractive pink flower with yellow center.

Glamoflage Blueberry was unique to the field with its variegated foliage. It held up quite well all

season, though not quite as vigorous as other cultivars. Still, it offers a much different look for container

displays. The Peppy and Potunia colors were solid bi-color choices that looked great. Sophistica Twilight

showed a large flower with unusual blended colors, and the growth quickly reached all the way to the

ground.

The Success series was practically a joy to grow from seed in the greenhouse. The plants were

compact and well-mannered and looked great when planting out in the field. Most of the colors

received very high ratings in the container trial, with White receiving a rare perfect score. Other perfect

performers that wowed in the trials this year include the Supertunias Black Cherry, Limoncello, and

Morning Glory Charm. All three offer some different colors and spectacular vigor. The Morning Glory

Charm in particular was like a globe of solid blue color.

Suncatcher Vintage Rose is a new addition to the Prairie Star container list, standing out as a

strong grower that doesn’t get too leggy. Plus it offers a distinctive color combination that is perfect for

containers. Surfinia Wild Plum was also a standout this year with very attractive purple flowers that

cascaded down the side of the pot.



African Sunset 2014 AAS Winner 4.0 4.0 4.0 13 20 AAS Easy Wave Red Velour 5.0 4.3 4.7 15 36 PAS Easy Wave Burgundy Velour 5.0 4.3 4.7 16 36 PAS Easy Wave Berry Velour 5.0 4.5 4.8 14 36 PAS EZ Rider Deep Salmon 4.0 4.0 4.0 9 25 PAS EZ Rider Deep Pink 3.3 4.0 3.7 6 14 PAS EZ Rider Rose 5.0 4.3 4.7 9 27 PAS EZ Rider White 4.2 4.0 4.1 13 22 PAS Fortunia Early Pink Lemonade 4.7 4.7 4.7 9 28 ORO Fortunia Early Pink 5.0 4.3 4.7 9 22 ORO Glamoflage Blueberry 4.0 4.1 4.1 9 28 HC Peppy Red 5.0 4.3 4.7 12 32 REDFOX Peppy Cerise 5.0 4.3 4.7 11 26 REDFOX Potunia Piccola Purple Ice 5.0 4.3 4.7 9 24 REDFOX Sophistica Twilight 5.0 4.0 4.5 11 30 PAS Success Pink 5.0 4.3 4.7 12 30 BEN Success Blue 4.3 4.0 4.2 8 22 BEN Success Salmon 4.3 4.3 4.3 8 23 BEN Success Burgundy 5.0 4.3 4.7 13 30 BEN Success Rose 5.0 4.2 4.6 14 36 BEN Success White 5.0 5.0 5.0 13 32 BEN

56

Success Red 5.0 4.3 4.7 13 30 BEN Success Violet 5.0 4.3 4.7 14 30 BEN Suncatcher Blue Blast 4.3 4.0 4.2 10 21 BFP Suncatcher Plum Blast 5.0 4.3 4.7 10 26 BFP Suncatcher Vintage Rose 5.0 4.3 4.7 11 36 BFP SunSpun Orange 4.7 5.0 4.8 13 39 BFP Supertunia Black Cherry 5.0 5.0 5.0 13 36 PW Supertunia Flamingo 4.7 4.2 4.4 12 24 PW Supertunia Limoncello 5.0 5.0 5.0 15 40 PW Supertunia Morning Glory Charm 5.0 5.0 5.0 11 40 PW Supertunia Piccasso in Pink 5.0 4.3 4.7 10 40 PW Supertunia Pretty Much Picasso 4.7 4.0 4.3 11 30 PW Supertunia Red 4.3 4.7 4.5 8 16 PW Supertunia Watermelon Charm 5.0 4.0 4.5 8 24 PW Surfinia Wild Plum 5.0 4.3 4.7 10 36 SUN Surfinia Blue Veined 5.0 4.0 4.5 10 32 SUN Surfinia White Improved 4.5 4.0 4.3 8 28 SUN Surfinia Baby Deep Purple 4.0 4.0 4.0 8 25 SUN (See also Seed Propagated and Vegetatively Propagated – Petunia)

Plectranthus

This Plectranthus was incredibly vigorous, practically overwhelming the pot by season’s end.

The foliage was pleasantly fuzzy with a strong citrusy smell.

Table 107. Container grown performance of select varieties of Plectranthus in Kansas


variegatus 5.0 4.0 4.5 25 38 Local

(See also Vegetatively Propagated – Plectranthus)

Rosa

This was the second year for these container Roses in the trials. Most overwintered with 100%

survival in an unheated greenhouse. The Sunrosa Red jumps out as the best flower display. The tight

plants put on several flushes of pretty red flowers. Veranda Brilliant also had a very good second year,

with healthy growth and nice orange blooms. The Roses were attacked by Japanese Beatles during the

season, but persistent hand removal of the insects into soapy water took care of the problem quite well.

Table 108a. Container grown performance of select varieties of Rosa in Kansas; 1 plant in a 16” pot


Kolorscape Cheri 4.3 3.5 3.9 21 26 BI Kolorscape Flamingo 4.3 3.7 4.0 23 31 BI Kolorscape Kardinal 4.0 4.3 4.2 26 33 BI Kolorscape Milano 4.0 3.7 3.8 28 36 BI Sunrosa Red 4.3 4.3 4.3 17 24 SUN

57

Sunrosa Yellow 4.3 3.3 3.8 21 26 SUN Veranda Brilliant 4.3 3.7 4.0 23 28 BI Veranda Chica 4.0 4.3 4.2 19 27 BI Veranda Lavender 4.3 3.3 3.8 28 31 BI Veranda Sunbeam 4.0 3.7 3.8 23 26 BI (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Rosa)

Table 108b. Container grown performance of select varieties of Rosa in Kansas; 3 plants in a 20” pot


Kolorscape Cheri 5.0 3.5 4.3 23 30 BI Kolorscape Flamingo 4.7 4.2 4.4 24 30 BI Kolorscape Kardinal 5.0 3.8 4.4 22 26 BI Kolorscape Milano 5.0 3.0 4.0 27 34 BI Sunrosa Red 5.0 4.3 4.7 21 26 SUN Sunrosa Yellow 4.5 3.5 4.0 25 24 SUN Veranda Brilliant 5.0 4.0 4.5 24 33 BI Veranda Chica 5.0 4.0 4.5 26 26 BI Veranda Lavender 5.0 3.3 4.2 25 36 BI Veranda Sunbeam 3.8 3.7 3.8 19 27 BI (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Rosa)

Purslane

The RioGrande colors had solid growth, but the flower display was not always there, as the

blooms were slow to open in the morning, and quick to close in the late afternoon.

Table 109. Container grown performance of select varieties of Purslane in Kansas


RioGrande Orange 4.3 3.5 3.9 10 12 BFP RioGrande White 4.7 4.0 4.3 8 15 BFP RioGrande Yellow 4.3 3.8 4.1 10 12 BFP RioGrande Magenta 4.0 3.5 3.8 7 11 BFP

(See also Vegetatively Propagated – Purslane)

Pre-Mixed Combinations

Healing Waters looked great in the container trials, but it was primarily dominated by the

petunias in the mix, and the Bacopa was practically invisible by mid-season.

Table 110. Container grown performance of select varieties of Designer Combinations in Kansas


Fuseables Healing Waters 4.7 4.0 4.3 18 40 PAS (See also Seed Propagated – Pre-Mixed Combinations)

58

Salvia greggii

Fancy Dancer was not particularly showy and had an average performance in the trials.

Table 111. Container grown performance of select varieties of Salvia farinacea in Kansas


Fancy Dancer 3.0 3.0 3.0 14 7 Local

Scaevola

Both Scaevolas in the container trial looked excellent. The Surdiva White Improved was one of

the year’s stand out cultivars. It had a great habit and full circular flowers that covered the plant.

Table 112. Container grown performance of select varieties of Scaevola in Kansas


Pink Wonder 4.3 4.7 4.5 8 14 PW Surdiva White Improved 5.0 5.0 5.0 9 15 SUN (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Scaevola)

Sunflower

The smaller sized Sunflower entries in the All-American Selections trial are intended for field

and container use. When in bloom they both made very attractive displays, with the dwarf cultivar

having smaller flowers and more branching. However, being Sunflowers, their short bloom season limits

their use.

Table 113. Container grown performance of select varieties of Sunflower in Kansas

Cultivar AAS trial V F Overall Ht (in) Wd (in) Source

Dwarf AAS 14F03 4.0 3.7 3.8 28 16 AAS Semi-Dwarf AAS 14F04 4.0 3.7 3.8 34 21 AAS (See also Seed Propagated – Sunflower)

Sutera

The Snowstorm colors were very vigorous growers, looking lush and green all season. The

number of flowers declined during the summer heat.

Table 114. Container grown performance of select varieties of Sutera in Kansas


Snowstorm Blue Bubbles 4.3 3.8 4.1 10 24 Local Snowstorm Snow Globe 4.3 3.8 4.1 11 25 Local (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Sutera)

59

Torenia

The Torenia cultivars always seem to have fantastic vigor and a solid flower display, making

them good choices for container plantings in this area.

Table 115. Container grown performance of select varieties of Torenia in Kansas


Catalina Grape-O-Licious 4.3 4.0 4.2 10 20 PW Catalina Pink 4.3 4.0 4.2 14 24 PW Catalina White 4.0 4.3 4.2 11 20 PW (See also Vegetatively Propagated – Torenia)

Vegetables (See Edibles)

Verbena

The Verbenas seemed to have their ups and downs during the season, having trouble with too

much rain early on and then cycling out of bloom with the summer heat. The Empress colors had the

best vigor and floriferous combination of the entries this year.

Table 116. Container grown performance of select varieties of Verbena in Kansas


Empress Dark Red 4.7 3.7 4.2 11 19 RED FOX Empress Burgundy Charme 4.7 3.7 4.2 12 18 RED FOX EnduraScape Lavender 4.0 4.0 4.0 11 18 BFP EnduraScape Hot Pink 4.3 3.3 3.8 9 18 BFP EnduraScape Deep Rose 4.7 3.3 4.0 13 28 BFP EnduraScape Dark Purple 4.3 3.5 3.9 12 20 BFP Lindolena Neon 3.3 4.0 3.7 10 18 ORO Temari Candy Stripe 4.3 3.7 4.0 10 24 SUN Temari Patio Hot Pink 4.0 3.7 3.8 12 15 SUN

(See also Vegetatively Propagated – Verbena)

Veronica

Moody Blues had nice long-lasting flower spikes, but the plant struggled to thrive in the

container trial.

Table 117. Container grown performance of select varieties of Veronica in Kansas


Moody Blues Dark Blue 3.0 4.0 3.5 10 15 Local

60

Prairie Star Collection 2015

Available online at www.prairiestarflowers.org

Plants for Flower Display:

Flower Cultivar/Color

Ageratum Artist Series (All Colors)

Ageratum High Tide Blue

Angelonia Angelface Series (All Colors)

Angelonia Angelmist Spreading Purple Imp.

Angelonia Archangel Raspberry Imp.

Angelonia Serena Blue

Angelonia Serena White Angelonia Serenita Series (All Colors)

Angelonia Statuesque White

Angelonia Sungelonia Series (All Colors)

Begonia Ambassador Pink

Begonia Baby Wing White

Begonia BIG Series (All Colors)

Begonia Brandy (Pink/Dark leaves)

Begonia Doublet Series (All Colors)

Begonia Dragon Wing Red

Begonia Olympia Rose

Begonia Olympia White

Begonia Party Pink (Bronze Leaf)

Begonia Surefire Series

Begonia Vodka (Red/Dark Leaves)

Begonia Whisky (White/Dark Leaves)

Begonia Whopper Series (All Colors)

Buddleia Buzz Ivory

Canna Chocolate Sunrise

Canna Magic Pink

Canna Rosita

Canna Shining Diva

Canna South Pacific Scarlet

Celosia Cramer’s Amazon (Red)

Celosia Cramer’s Burgundy

Celosia Flamingo Feather Purple

Celosia Fresh Look Red

Celosia Hi-Z (Purple)

Celosia New Look Red

Celosia Watch (Hot Pink)

Cleome Senorita Rosalita

Cleome Senorita Blanca

Cosmos Cosmic Orange

Cosmos Cosmic Mix

Dianthus Amazon Neon Cherry

Dianthus Amazon Neon Purple

Echinacea Cheyenne Spirit

Echinacea PowWow Wild Berry

Euphorbia Diamond Frost (White)

Evolvulus Blue My Mind

Gaillardia Arizona Apricot

Gaillardia Mesa Bright Bicolor

Gaillardia Mesa Yellow

Gaillardia Plume Series (All Colors) Gaillardia Torch Series (All Colors)

Geranium Americana Series (All Colors)

Geranium Cascade Acapulco Compact (Pink/White)

Geranium Cascade Lila Compact (Lavender/Pink)

Geranium Cascade Sophie (Salmon/Pink)

Geranium Classic Dark Salmon

Geranium Classic Salmon

Geranium Contessa Dark Red

Geranium Fidelity Salmon

Geranium Fireworks Cherry

Geranium Galleria Bright Sunrise (Orange/Red)

Geranium Galleria SnowFire (Pale Pink Bi-color)

Geranium Maverick Star

Geranium Patriot White Geranium Patriot Bright Red

Geranium Patriot Watermelon

Geranium Rocky Mountain Series (All Colors)

Geranium Showcase Light Lavender

Geranium Showcase Salmon

Geranium, seed BullsEye Light Pink

Geranium, seed Pinto Series (All Colors)

Geranium, seed Ringo 2000 Lavender

Geranium, Exotic Crystal Palace Gem

Geranium, Exotic Caliente Coral Pink

Geranium, Exotic Caliente Rose

Geranium, Exotic Graffiti Double Red

Geranium, Exotic Graffiti Double Salmon

Gomphrena Fireworks

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/ageratumhightideblue.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/angelonia%20serena%20white.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/angelonia%20serena%20white.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/begonia_ambassador_pink.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/begonia_brandy.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/begonia_doublet_all_colors.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/begonia_olympia_rose.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/begonia_olympia_white.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/begonia_party_pink.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/begonia_vodka.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/begonia_whisky.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/celosia_cramer.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/celosia_flamingo_feather_purple.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/celosia_fresh_look_red.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/celosia_hi-Z.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/celosia%20New%20Look%20Red.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/celosia_watch.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/cosmos_cosmic_orange.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/cosmos_cosmic_mix.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/dianthus_amazon_neon_cherry.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/dianthus_amazon_neon_purple.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/euphorbia%20diamond%20frost.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/gaillardia_plume_series_all_colo.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/gaillardia_torch_series_all_colo.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium_americana_series.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium_galleria_frost_fi.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium%20patriot%20white.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium_patriot_bright_re.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium%20Patriot%20watermelon.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium_rocky_mountain_se.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium_showcase_light_la.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium_showcase_salmon.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium_pinto_blush.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zonal_geranium_ringo_2000_lavend.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/Geraniumcrystalpalacegem.htm

61

Gomphrena Las Vegas Series (All Colors)

Helenium Dakota (Gold)

Helichrysum Silver Leaf Yellow

Impatiens Accent Coral

Impatiens Accent Lavender Blue

Impatiens Jambalaya Series (All Colors)

Impatiens Metallic Deep Salmon

Impatiens Showstopper Cherry

Impatiens Showstopper Tropical Flair Mix

Impatiens Super Elfin XP Rose Starburst

Impatiens Super Elfin XP Violet Starburst

Impatiens, Double Fiesta Series (All Colors)

Impatiens, Double Rockapulco Series (All Colors)

Impatiens, NG Infinity Series (All Colors)

Impatiens, NG Super Sonic Cherry Cream

Lantana Bandana Series (All Colors)

Lantana Chipotle Flare

Lantana Landmark Series (All Colors)

Lantana Little Lucky Hot Pink

Lantana Little Lucky Pot of Gold

Lantana Little Lucky Red

Lantana Luscious Series (All Colors)

Lantana New Gold

Lantana Patriot Hot Country (Bright Pink/Orange)

Lantana The Desert Sunset (Pink/Orange/Yellow)

Lantana Trailing Lavender

Lobularia Snow Princess

Marigold Antigua Primrose (Yellow)

Marigold Bonanza Deep Orange

Marigold Disco Series (All Colors)

Marigold Discovery Orange

Marigold Hero Series (All Colors)

Marigold Inca II Primrose (Yellow)

Marigold Inca II Yellow

Marigold Little Hero Series (All Colors)

Marigold Moonsong Deep Orange

Marigold Perfection Mix

Marigold Perfection Yellow

Marigold Safari Series (All Colors)

Marigod Taishan Series (All Colors)

Mecardonia Gold Dust Melampodium Derby (Orange)

Melampodium Million Gold

Melampodium Showstar Yellow

Nierembergia Augusta Blue Skies

Nierembergia Mont Blanc (White)

Pentas Northern Lights Lavender

Petunia Blushing Princess (White/Lavender)

Petunia Carpet Lilac

Petunia Cascadia Series (All Colors)

Petunia Dream Series (All Colors)

Petunia Easy Wave Series (All Colors)

Petunia Fantasy Crystal Red

Petunia Fantasy Mix

Petunia Hurrah Series (All Colors)

Petunia Kahuna, both colors, Violet and White

Petunia Littletunia Series (All Colors)

Petunia Madness Series (All Colors)

Petunia Marco Polo Odyssey (Lavender)

Petunia Misty Lilac Wave

Petunia Plush Series (All Colors)

Petunia PopRocks White

Petunia Primetime Lavender

Petunia Primetime Rose

Petunia Ray Series (All Colors)

Petunia Shockwave Series (All Colors)

Petunia Storm Series (All Colors)

Petunia Suncatcher White

Petunia Supertunia Charm Series (All Colors)

Petunia Supertunia Citrus

Petunia Supertunia Bordeaux

Petunia Supertunia Flamingo

Petunia Supertunia Giant Pink

Petunia Supertunia Lavender Pink

Petunia Supertunia Mini Series (All Colors)

Petunia Supertunia Raspberry Blast

Petunia Supertunia Royal Magenta

Petunia Supertunia Royal Velvet (Purple)

Petunia Supertunia White

Petunia Supertunia Vista Bubble Gum (Pink)

Petunia Supertunia Vista Fuchsia

Petunia Supertunia Vista Silverberry

Petunia Surfinia Blue Veined

Petunia Surfinia White Imp

Petunia Surfinia Wild Plum

Petunia Tidal Wave Series (All Colors)

Portulaca Fairytales Series (All Colors)

Portulaca Happy Hour Series (All Colors) Portulaca Happy Trails Series (All Colors)

Portulaca Pazazz Series (All Colors)

Rudbeckia Denver Daisy

Rudbeckia Prairie Sun (Yellow)

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/helenium_dakota_gold.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/impatiens_accent_coral.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/impatiens_accent_lavender_blue.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/impatiens_metallic_deep_salmon.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/impatiens_showstopper_cherry.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/impatiens_showstopper_tropical_f.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/double_flowered_impatiens_fiesta_Salsa_Red.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/new_guinea_impatiens_infinity_pink.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/LantanaBandanaAllColors.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/LantanalandmarkAllColors.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/lantana_new_gold.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/lantana_patriot_hot_country.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/lantana_the_desert_sunset.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/lantana_trailing_lavender.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/marigold_antigua_primrose.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/marigold_inca_ii_primrose.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/marigold_inca_ii_yellow.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/marigold_perfection_mix.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/marigold_perfection_yellow.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/melampodium_derby.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/melampodium_million_gold.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/melampodium_showstar_yellow.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/nierembergia_mont_blanc.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_blushing_princess.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_carpet_lilac.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_cascadia_bicolor%20purple.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petitunia_bright_dream.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_easy_wave_series.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_fantasy_crystal_red.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_fantasy_mix.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_hurrah_series_all_colors.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_kuhuna_white.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_madness_merlot_mix.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_marco_polo_odyssey.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_misty_wave_lilac.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_primetime_lavender.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_primetime_rose.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_storm_series_all_colors.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_suncatcher_white.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_supertunia_bordeaux.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_supertunia_giant%20pink.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_supertunia_lavender_pink.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_supertunia_mini_blue_vei.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_supertunia_royal%20magenta.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_supertunia_royal%20velvet.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_supertunia_white.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_supertunia_vista_bubbleg.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_supertunia_vista_bubbleg.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/petunia_tidal_wave_silver.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/portulaca_fairytales_all_colors.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/rudbeckia_prairie_sun.htm

62

Rudbeckia Tiger Eye Gold

Salvia coccinea Summer Jewel Red

Salvia farinacea Evolution

Salvia farinacea Evolution White

Salvia farinacea Reference Blue & White

Salvia farinacea Sallyfun Series (All Colors)

Salvia farinacea Silver

Salvia farinacea Victoria (blue)

Scaevola Blue Shamrock Scaevola Blue Velvet

Scaevola New Wonder (Purple)

Scaevola Outback Fan Dancer

Scaevola Outback Purple Fan Flower

Scaevola Surdiva Series (All Colors)

Scaevola Whirlwind Blue Scaevola Whirlwind White Snapdragon (Anthirrhinum) Rocket Cherry

Tithonia Fiesta del Sol

Torenia Catalina Blue

Torenia Catalina Pink

Torenia Kauai Deep Blue

Torenia Kauai Magenta

Verbena Donalena Red Amour

Verbena Donalena Violet XL

Verbena Escapade Pink

Verbena Lanai Bright Pink

Verbena Lanai Lavender Star

Verbena Superbena Burgundy

Verbena Superbena Coral Red

Verbena Superbena Dark Blue

Verbena Superbena Large Lilac Blue

Verbena Superbena Pink Parfait

Verbena Superbena Pink Shades

Verbena Superbena Purple

Verbena Superbena Royale Chambray

Verbena Temari Blue

Verbena Temari Cherry Red

Verbena Temari Patio Blue

Verbena Temari Patio Hot Pink

Verbena Tukana Scarlet Star

Verbena Tukana White Vinca (Catharanthus) Cooler Series (All Colors) Vinca (Catharanthus) Mediterranean Series (All Colors)

Vinca (Catharanthus) Nirvana Series (All Colors)

Vinca (Catharanthus) Pacifica Series (All Colors)

Vinca (Catharanthus) Pacifica XP Series (All Colors)

Vinca (Catharanthus) Sunshower White with Eye

Vinca (Catharanthus) Sunstorm Orchid

Vinca (Catharanthus) Sunstorm White with Eye

Vinca (Catharanthus) Titan Series (All Colors)

Zinnia Bridesmaid

Zinnia Crystal White

Zinnia Dreamland Red

Zinnia Oklahoma Series (All Colors)

Zinnia Profusion Orange

Zinnia Profusion Red

Zinnia Profusion White Zinnia Queen Series (All Colors)

Zinnia Short Stuff Orange

Zinnia UpTown Grape

Zinnia Zahara Series (All Colors)

Plants for Foliage Display:


Basil (Ocimum) Boxwood

Basil (Ocimum) Pesto Perpetuo

Canna Tropicana (Variegated Leaves Orange Bloom)

Coleus Alligator Tears

Coleus Aurora Black Cherry

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/salvia_farinacea_reference_blue.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/salvia_farinacea_silver.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/salvia_farinacea_Victoria.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/scaevola_blue_shamrock.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/scaevola_blue_velvet.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/scaevola_new_wonder.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/scaevola_outback_fan_dancer.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/scaevola_outback_purple_fan_flow.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/snapdragon_rocket_cherry.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/verbena_escapade_pink.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/vinca_cooler_series.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/vinca_mediterranean_polka_dot.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/vinca_nirvana_cascade_white.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/vinca_pacifica_series_all_colors.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/vinca_sunshower_with%20with%20eye.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/vinca_sunstorm_orchid.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/vinca_sunstorm_white_w.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/vinca_titan%20series.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zinnia_angustifolia_crystal_whit.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zinnia_oklahoma_series_all_color.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zinnia_angustifolia_profusion_orange.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zinniaprofussionred.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/zinniaprofussionred.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_aurora_black_cherry.htm

63

Coleus Dark Chocolate

Coleus Dipt in Wine

Coleus Kaleidoscope Mix

Coleus Kong Jr. Scarlet

Coleus LifeLime Coleus Premium Sun Mighty Mosaic Coleus Rainbow Mix

Coleus Royal Glissade

Coleus Stained Glassworks Kiwi Fern (Purple Green Red)

Coleus Stained Glassworks Rose Explosion

Coleus Saturn

Coleus Sedona

Coleus Under the Sea King Crab

Colues Versa Lime

Coleus Wasabi

Coleus Wizard Scarlet

Colocasia Coffee Cups

Colocasia Heart of the Jungle

Colocasia Pink China

Cyperus papyrus Baby Tut

Cyperus papyrus King Tut

Dahlia Mystic Illusion

Hibiscus Mahogany Splendor

Hibsicus Maple Sugar

Ornamental Grass Carex Toffee Twist

Ornamental Grass Juncus Blue Mohawk

Ornamental Grass Pennisetum Fireworks

Ornamental Grass Pennisetum Red Riding Hood

Ornamental Grass Pennisetum Rubrum

Ornamental Grass Pennisetum Vertigo

Ornamental Grass Pennisetum White Lancer

Ornamental Millet Jade Princess

Ornamental Millet Jester

Ornamental Millet Purple Baron

Ornamental Millet Purple Majesty

Ornamental Pepper Black Olive

Ornamental Pepper Calico

Ornamental Pepper Chilly Chili (Red/Yellow)

Ornamental Pepper Medusa

Ornamental Pepper Purple Flash

Perilla Magilla (Purple/Pink)

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea) Ace of Spades

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea) Blackie

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea) Chillin Series (All Colors)

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea) Desana Bronze, Lime, Maple

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea) Illusion Series (All Colors)

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_kaleidoscope_mix.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_rainbow_mix.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_stained_glassworks_kiwi_f.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_stained_glassworks_rose_e.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_wizard_scarlet.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/kingtut.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/ornamental_pepper_chilly_chili.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/ornamental_pepper_medusa.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/perilla_magilla.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/Ipomeabatatasaceofspades.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/Ipomeabatatasblackie.htm

64

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea) Marguerite

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea) Sidekick Series (All Colors)

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea) Sweet Caroline Series (All Colors)

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea) Tri Color

Talinum Limon

Plants for Containers*:


Acalypha Lava Flow

Alternanthera Royal Tapestry

Begonia Gryphon

Begonia Sparkle Scarlet

Calibrachoa Can-Can Purple Star

Calibrachoa Can-Can Dark Purple

Calibrachoa Can-Can Hot Pink Star

Calibrachoa Million Bells Trailing Magenta

Calibrachoa Noa Mega Pink

Calibrachoa Superbells Blackberry Punch

Calibrachoa Superbells Blue

Calibrachoa Superbells Cherry Blossom

Calibrachoa Superbells Cherry Red

Calibrachoa Superbells Coralberry Punch

Calibrachoa Superbells Dreamsicle

Calibrachoa Superbells Grape Punch

Calibrachoa Superbells Lavender

Calibrachoa Superbells Lemon Slice

Calibrachoa Superbells Miss Lilac

Calibrachoa Superbells Pink

Calibrachoa Superbells Pomegranite Punch

Calibrachoa Superbells Red

Calibrachoa Superbells Saffron

Calibrachoa Superbells Scarlet

Calibrachoa Superbells Sweet Tart

Calibrachoa Superbells Tequila Sunrise

Calibrachoa Superbells Tickled Pink

Calibrachoa Superbells Yellow

Calibrachoa Superbells Yellow Chiffon

Calibrachoa Superbells White

Coleus Kong Salmon Pink

Coleus Versa Burgundy To Green Coleus Versa Crimson Gold

Coleus Wizard Golden

Coleus Wizard Scarlet Dichondra Silver Falls

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/sweet_potato_vine_chartreuse__fo.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/ipomeabatatastricolor.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_aurora_black_cherry.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_kaleidoscope_mix.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_rainbow_mix.htm

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/coleus_stained_glassworks_rose_e.htm

65

Gerbera Garvinea Orangina

Lobularia Frosty Knight

Lobularia Giga White

Lobularia Silver Stream

Mandevilla SunParasol Cream Pink

Mandevilla SunParasol Crimson

Mandevilla SunParasol Giant Crimson

Mandevilla SunParasol Giant Pink

Mandevilla SunParasol Giant White

Mandevilla SunParasol Pink

New Guinea Impatiens Sun Harmony Magenta

Otomeria O’Premiera Ruby

Pelargonium (Geranium) Sarita Wild Salmon

Petunia Soleil Purple

Petunia Sophistica Lime Bicolor

Petunia Suncatcher Vintage Rose

Petunia Supertunia Pretty Much Picasso

Petunia Supertunia White Russian

Phlox Intensia Cabernet

Phlox Intensia Lavender Glow

Phlox Intensia Pink

Plectranthus Silver Crest

Salvia splendens Saucy Red

Torenia Summer Wave Bouquet Cream Yellow

*All Prairie Star Flowers are recommended for use in both containers and landscape plantings. The plants

in this category displayed exemplary performances in the container trials, but it must be noted that some

do not grow well when planted in the flower bed and use should be restricted to containers only.

http://www.prairiestarflowers.org/kingtut.htm

2014 report: bedding plant field and container trials › bedding plant reports › 2014 k-state...

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