Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Autumn Gold

At this time of year, when there is not much blooming , it is so nice to look out and enjoy lovely golden color in the garden. I have two plants that have nice foliage in summer, but fall is when they really put on a show. The first is this Mexican Mint Marigold, or as we call it here..Texas Tarragon. We can't grow French Tarragon here in Texas, but this herb gives us a great substitute (it is wonderful in chicken salad!) for cooking. However, the biggest wow factor to me is the reliable fall color. It starts blooming around the end of October and continues until frost. The other plant that I am completely in love with is Copper Canyon Daisy. Sometimes it blooms a little in spring, but fall is really showtime. This plant can get pretty big, but I keep it cut back some in summer just making sure I don't do any pruning after the middle of July. Brushing the feathery foliage releases a very spicy, citrus smell. I love it--but it does not appeal to everyone. The CC Daisy begins blooming around the first of November, and like Texas Tarragon, blooms until frost.
I have enjoyed the look of this plant all summer, but now that it almost in full bloom--I am in LOVE! Both plants work well cut and used as fillers in fall bouquets inside. (especially with asters and spires of Mexican Bush Sage.) Unfortunately however, both plants die back completely over winter, but as soon as it starts to warm up in spring you will see new growth begin. If you need a little autumn gold in your garden, you might consider these two. They never fail to brighten dull autumn days for me!




9 comments:

Barbee' said...

They look and sound wonderful! Wish we could grow them here, but I doubt they would flourish here. Yours are beautiful!

Meadowview Thymes said...

Hi Barbee!! How are you?? Yes, I do think these are Texas Natives and like warmer weather. I love the spicy scents, but lots of my friends do not! :) (so good to hear from you!)

tina said...

They are golden and beautiful indeed. Yellow is my favorite color too. Happy fall to you!

Meadowview Thymes said...

I do love yellow in the garden Tina! Add some red, and a dash of blue or purple....yum!! (and happy fall to you too!)

JenningsJunk said...

It amazes me that you're just around the corner from me...it's like a whole other area of Texas when I see your pictures. Love the fall colors!

Meadowview Thymes said...

Hi JJ--these plus a very few other things are all I have right now. We have such a late fall this year-that is why I even have anything. Glad you like the pictures! Hope to see you soon!!

Nola said...

I just discovered CCD's this year, I bought 2 4" pots and each is now about 3'x3'! I am planting more of them next year, they have quickly become one of my favorites. I was reading up on them, and some sights call them natives, others consider them non-native adapted. Whatever they are, they are in my garden for good!

Meadowview Thymes said...

Nola--I have also read that the CC Daisies are natives--which is what I am trying to use so many of in my little back yard. I picked some the other day and put in a little jar. They are still pretty! Love, love these flowers! :)

Lola said...

Wishing you & yours a Merry Christmas Season.