Tuesday, September 24, 2013
This ground cover grows 12 inches to 18 inches tall. Once established, it is drought tolerant needing water every few days. If you have some planted and it is leggy or struggling, it's most likely not receiving enough water. The plant is great in a shade garden or morning sun near a pool or fountain and will become more dense with an occasional pruning.
With it dramatic burgundy foliage and cute pink flowers late spring through fall, the Purple Queen is a terrific companion plant when paired with other deep-green plants, gray-leafed plants or contrasting pinks or yellows. With lower frost risk gardens, it can also be used to fill beds on sheltered locations or be mixed into tropical plantings to add purple foliage color. It is a great choice for hanging baskets or pots as the rapid growth habit will trail off the sides of the container nicely. For minimalist modern gardens, Purple Queen will add a nice pop of color and interest without interrupting the simplicity of the garden design.
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Tags: Marylee Pangman , container gardens , potted desert garden , summer flowers , Winter flowers , potted cactus , Potted Desert , Tucson garden , Southern Arizona , snowbird garden