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"For top performance in difficult conditions you can count on recommendations
from the GreatPlants program." Midwest Living
One of five "Awards Worth Watching," Garden Design
Magazine
GreatPlants Suppliers, Supporters and Advertisers
Information for Nursery Owners
GreatPlants promotional pieces (banners, tags, newsletters)
Cumulative Listing of GreatPlants
Other Plant Promotion Programs
Recommended plants for the Eastern and Western Great Plains
The GreatPlants program is a joint effort of the Nebraska
Nursery & Landscape Association and the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum
that selects and promotes exceptional plants – reliably
hardy, easy to care for, and ornamentally worthwhile – for
Plants of the Year and for GreatPlants Releases and Introductions. Ask
for them at your local nursery!
2009 GreatPlants Selections
 Tree of the Year —Corneliancherry dogwood , Cornus mas
Durable small tree has rounded clusters of tiny yellow flowers in early spring before leaves appear, and lustrous dark green leaves and bright cherry red fruit in late summer. The olive-shaped fruits are relished by songbirds or can be used to make jam or jelly. Bark is an attractive mix of gray and brown that exfoliates on mature branches. The main trunk is typically very low, with low branches hovering just above the ground. It can be trimmed up at the base to make it more tree-like and better reveal the exfoliating bark. Slow-growing European native remains free of insect, disease and cold injuries. It prefers rich, well-drained soils, but tolerates high pH and heavy clay better than any dogwood. Ideal for a small yard as an accent plant or planted in groups as a hedge or screen. It grows best in full sun, but tolerates some shade. Zone 5. ('Redstone' is a USDA release from Elsberry , MO selected for seedling vigor, dense growth, glossy foliage and no pest problems in 44 years of evaluations. Hardy to zone 5a.) 20-25' h, 15-20' w
 Conifer of the Year—Serbian spruce , Picea omorika
This handsome spruce is another alternative to Norway and blue spruce. It has a slender trunk with short, ascending or drooping branches—creating a graceful, ballerina effect. Lustrous dark green needles have silver bands underneath. It has proven itself winter hardy throughout the Great Plains, growing best in full sun to light shade. Needles are prone to winterburn in strong winds so not useful as a windbreak. Struggles in wet clay and irrigated landscapes. Few diseases appear to bother it but the white pine weevil can destroy the central leader and seriously disfigure this spruce if not controlled. Hardy to zone 4. 50'h, 20-35' w
 Shrub of the Year—Creeping mahonia, Mahonia repens
This stoloniferous groundcover grows along the rocky ridges and under the thick evergreen canopy of western Nebraska 's Pine Ridge. Stiff, spine-tipped leaves, reminiscent of holly, turn a rich bronzy purple in late fall through the winter. Clusters of fragrant, yellow flowers in early spring, followed by small clusters of grape-like, dark bluish-purple berries in late summer. Planted en masse, it spreads slowly to make an attractive evergreen groundcover, but grows best in part shade or dry dappled shade, especially under conifers, where it benefits from acidic conditions. Growing only 12-15” high, this drought-tolerant gem is best protected from winter winds that can burn the foliage.
 Perennial of the Year— Arkansas bluestar, Amsonia hubrichtii
TExcellent, dependable plant with upright stems that emerge in early spring and rapidly extend to mature size. Plants are topped with starry, pale blue flowers in May and June. Fine, thread-like dark green leaves unfold along the thin stems to form a very fine-textured mound of foliage. In autumn, the foliage turns a lovely golden-yellow; brightest when planted in full sun. Takes several years to grow into an attractive mound, but dependable and long-lived in rich, well-drained soils. Very effective planted en masse or as a specimen. Hardy to zone 4. 3' h, 3' w
 Grass of the Year— Panicum ‘Shenandoah', Shenandoah switchgrass
Bright green leaves of this switchgrass are tipped with dark red by mid-summer, turning entirely red and orange in fall. Only 4-5' tall in flower, this slower-growing selection is very adaptable, tolerating drought and soggy soils, high pH and full, hot sun. One of the best grasses for maintaining upright habit and tight clump form in the garden. This North American prairie native was selected by Germany 's Hans Simon. Plant as a single specimen, in masses or as a companion to perennials with bold foliage. Hardy to zone 4.
GreatPlants Releases for 2009
Named cultivars released by the GreatPlants® program for 2009
 Prairie Gypsy Monarda, Monarda ‘Prairie Gypsy'
This wonderful new Monarda has 3” wide, raspberry-colored flowers with purple spots on the petals. This selection does not spread aggressively by rhizomes like other beebalms and its attractive minty-scented leaves are mildew-resistant. A hybrid of Bradbury's beebalm( Monarda bradburiana ), ‘Prairie Gypsy' inherited its clean foliage, shade tolerance, compact stature and earlier bloom time (late May to early June) than other species. Selected by Harlan Hamernik of Bluebird Nursery. 2-3' h, 2' w.
 Prairie Jewel Mistflower, Eupatorium ‘ Prairie Jewel'
Attractive cream and green mottled foliage brightly emerges in spring and grows up to a nice upright mound by late summer. Clusters of small white flower buds cover the plant in fall and slowly open over several weeks. It's a durable plant that's easy to grow in well-drained, moderately dry soils and is pest-free. This native prairie plant is most likely a hybrid between boneset, Eupatorium altissimum and white snakeroot, Eupatorium rugosum . Discovered by Ed Rasmussen of The Fragrant Path, Fort Calhoun , Nebraska . 4' h, 3' w
 Mongolian Snowflakes Clematis, Clematis hexapetala ‘Mongolian Snowflakes'
Clusters of white, fragrant flowers top this shrubby clematis in late spring and feathery, silver seedheads put on a spectacular show in July and August. Rich, dark green linear leaves. Grows best in well-drained, moderately dry soils and will take a few years to grow into a 3' mound. A rare clematis collected by Harlan Hamernik in China .
Previous Perennials of the Year
 2008 Perennial-- Geum triflorum, Prairie Smoke
Distinctive native of the northern plains has small purplish-red nodding flowers in very early spring that give rise to feathery silver and pink seedheads and persist for many weeks after flowering (they remind me of the signature hair of troll dolls!). Attractive, deeply cut leaves look great for the rest of the season and the entire plant is “softly hairy.” Easy to grow in well-drained areas of full sun and thrives in poor, dry soil. Grows less than a foot high and creeps slowly by rootstocks. Hardy to zone 3.
 2007 Perennial— Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks' , Fireworks Goldenrod
Sparkling golden-yellow flower spikes cascade to resemble a fireworks show in late summer to fall. This species prefers a moist site to perform its best. 3-4' h, 2-3' w. Hardy to zone 4.
 2006 Perennial—Pasque Flower, Pulsatilla species
The native pasque flower is a beautiful harbinger of spring with its delicate lavender cup-shaped flowers blooming in April, often appearing before the snow has disappeared. Flower colors of the European pasque flower include lavender, dark red, creamy white, pink and blue. Grows from 12-18” high and prefers a well-drained site and dry soils for best performance. Hardy to zone 4. Silky seed heads and fuzzy foliage remain attractive all season long on this drought-tolerant perennial.
 2005 Perennial—Dwarf Blue Indigo, Baptisia minor
A miniature version of blue false Indigo, Baptisia australis, for the hot, sunny border from seed Great Plains native collected in north central Kansas. Pea-shaped indigo blue flower spikes appear in spring, displayed nicely above the blue-green foliage. The showy flowers are reminiscent of lupines and are a favorite of bumble bees. In late summer and fall interesting seedpods develop, changing from a soft green to rich black in autumn and persisting into winter.
Native Americans called this plant 'Rattle Pod', because of the rattling pods used in dancing ceremonies for children. A tough, durable plant that looks good all season long! Only 15-24" tall and hardy to zone 4.  2004 Perennial—Variegated Solomon's Seal, Polygonatum
multiflorum 'Variegatum'
Try this exciting alternative to hosta
for the shade garden, probably the most handsome of the Polygonatums.
Common name refers to King Solomon's use of crushed
root to "seale or close up greene wounds," particularly broken
bones. Shoots emerge watermelon red with traces of green,
and bright color holds until almost fully grown.
Emerging
leaves are boldly blotched and striped ivory-white along the arching stems. Delicate, vase-shaped white flowers hang from
stems in May. In fall blue-black
fruits hang from the stems and leaves turn a nice yellow.
Grow in a shady location and rich, organic soils. Once
established, will tolerate dry shade and form full patches
with stems all arranged in the same direction. Combine with spring
bulbs or groundcovers. Native to Europe and Siberia.
2' h, 2' w. Hardy to zone 4.
 2003 Perennial—Purple
Coneflower, Echinacea genus
This is one of the best groups of native
wildflowers for the garden. There are a number of choices from this
exciting group of summer blooming plants. All Echinacea perform
best in well-drained soil and most are very drought tolerant. Most species
prefer dry soils and will get leggy with too much water and rich soil.
Many gardeners are discovering the cheerful bright pink petals of the
Echinacea tennessensis hybrids or the wispy, drooping pale pink
petals of Echinacea pallida or Echinacea angustifolia.
The striking yellow coneflower, Echinacea paradoxa, provides
a strong vertical plant with brilliant yellow rays surrounding a high-domed
bright chocolate brown disk.
 2002 Perennial—
Crane's Bill, Geranium sanguineum
Hardy Geraniums are considered
by many the workhorses of the perennial border, forming
decorative, long-lived, trouble-free colonies. This durable plant forms
mounds of deeply cut foliage that turn blood red in the fall, hence
the common name of Bloody Crane's-Bill. The bowl-shaped, magenta flowers
cover the plant in late spring to early summer and bloom sporadically
through the summer if plants are sheared back after flowering. Plant
in full sun to light shade as specimens in front of the border
or massed to form a groundcover around upright, leggy plants. Grows 18" high and 2' wide and hardy to zone
3.
2001 Perennial - The genus Penstemon
There are so many beautiful and hardy
plants among the 270 some species, so the entire group was selected.
Plants range from dwarf, cushion-forming types for rock gardens to taller
types suited to perennial borders. Penstemons perform best in full,
hot sun on sandy loam or raised soils. Individual plant species may
be short-lived in rich or clay soils. Allow attractive seedheds to persist
all winter to encourage self-sowing. Longer lived species include P.
digitalis, P. strictus, P. x mexicale and P. hirsutus (shown).
 2000 Perennial - Butterfly Milkweed,
Asclepias tuberosa
Very drought-tolerant herbaceous
perennial with extensive root system. Showy dark orange-red flower clusters
in summer followed by attractive seed pods in fall. A Great Plains wildflower!
Care must be taken not to overwater. Plant in full sun in a light soil
or raised bed. Grows 24 to 36" h. Hardy to zone 4.
1999 Perennial - Lead Plant, 
Amorpha canescens
Lead plant grows like an herbaceous perennial,
but with age and certain growing conditions can take on woody characteristics.
Most plants develop into small bushes with up to six basal stems. The
very silvery green color immediately catches the eye, which is caused
by very pubescent leaves. Dark purple spike-like racemes rise above
the foliage in June and July. Very drought tolerant.
Hardy to zone 3. 4' h 3' w
Previous Shrubs of the Year
 2008 Shrub-- Euonymus atropurpurea, Eastern Wahoo
This native shrub is also referred to as burning bush with its orange/red fall color and attractive rosy-pink fruit capsules that persist into winter; not to be confused with the common winged euonymus, Euonymus alatus . Very shade tolerant, but grows well and becomes an attractive dense specimen in full sun; pH adaptable and drought-tolerant. Can be grown in clump form or pruned up to form an attractive 8-12' small tree. Deserves to be planted more!
 2007 Shrub—Amelanchier alnifolia ‘Regent' , Regent Serviceberry
Attractive white flower clusters are the star of the show in early spring; forms sweet, red to black fruit clusters in June. Attractive oval leaves on this suckering shrub; adaptable to dry or wet soils, tolerates heavy clay. 4' h, 3' w.
 2006 Shrub—Redleaf Rose, Rosa glauca (R. rubrifolia)
An exciting shrub rose with attractive leaves that emerge reddish-purple in spring and become waxy bluish-green in summer. Fragrant 1½” pink flowers are followed by copious amounts of ½” dark red rose hips that hold well into winter. Its habit is upright, spreading to a rounded 5-7’ shrub with robust, reddish-violet stems. This is one of the most cold hardy roses, tolerant of a variety of different soil types and highly resistant to black spot. Hardy to zone 2. This rose should be in every garden!
 2005 Shrub—Korean Spirea, Spiraea fritschiana
This exciting little spirea is not very common but offers dark green foliage and large clusters of flat-topped, white flowers in May and June that contrast nicely with the rich green foliage. Serrated leaves turn a good yellow in fall on this dense, mounded shrub. Used as a filler plant or low massing plant, will perform in a variety of tough conditions. If pruning is required, remove flowers after they fade for a second flush of growth. 2-3' h, 3-4' w. Zone 4.
2004 Shrub—Clove Currant, Ribes odoratum
A western
Nebraska native that is an excellent choice for early spring color. In April the plant is covered with
bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers, deliciously clove-scented. If you
smell the blossoms you will not rest until you own a plant. The arching
stems, usually surrounded by a mass of young suckering growth, form bright
green tri-lobed leaves that turn orange in the fall. The selection 'Crandall' has excellent fruit quality and resistance
to mildew. The beautiful black fruits ripen in mid-July with a sweet spicy
flavor and will literally pull down the stems. Plant in full sun to part shade in any good garden
soil. 4-6' h, 4-6' w. Hardy to zone 4.
 2003 Shrub—Blackhaw Viburnum, Viburnum prunifolium
Develops into a large stiffly
branched shrub or small tree with branches often forming a fishbone-like
tiered pattern for winter interest. In spring the 2-4" flat-topped
white flower clusters cover the plant and the emerging leaves can be
tinged in maroon. Summer leaves are dark green and remain free of mildew,
then turn a rich bronze to a shining red in autumn. Fruit ripens to a dark bluish black in fall and can be quite showy. 12-15'
h, 10' w. Hardy to zone 3
 2002 Shrub—
kalm St. John's Wort, Hypericum kalmianum
A small, dense, little shrub with stout
erect stems that form a perfect mound. A handsome hardy plant, with
small, bluish green summer foliage. Small, buttercup yellow flowers
are a beautiful sight from July to August and the chocolate-brown seed
heads add winter interest. Hypericums hold up well in heat
and drought, and perform best in well-drained soils. Hypericum frondosum 'Sunburst'
and the Shrubby St. John's Wort, Hypericum prolificum, have proven superior in western Nebraska.
2001 Shrub - Oakleaf hydrangea,  Hydrangea
quercifolia
A dramatic shrub with bold, lobed foliage
resembling large oak leaves that are dark green in summer and range
from red to orange to purple in fall. White-to-pink drooping flowers
in June and July that can be up to 12" in length. Attractive exfoliating
bark in winter. Grows 4-8 foot tall with equal spread. Does best with
some shade and mulching to maintain cool, moist root environment. Hardy
to zone 5.
2000 Shrub - Chenault Coralberry ,
Symphoricarpos x chenaulti
Dense low-growing shrub with long cascading
branches. Produces brightly colored pink to red berries in fall that
persist all winter. Nice against the snow!. A nice tough groundcover
for full sun to part shade and well-adapted to a variety of soils. Grows
3 feet x 8 feet. Hardy to zone 4.
 1999 Shrub - Koreanspice Viburnum,
Viburnum carlesii
Koreanspice Viburnum has a spicy-sweet
fragrance much like a Daphne. Flowers are a 2-3" rounded inflorescence,
which are in full bloom from late April to early May. Flower buds develop
from pink to reddish in the early stages to open white blooms. Develops into a rounded shrub with very stiff upright branches. Reddish autumn color. Also try 'Cayuga' and 'Aurora.'. 5' h 5' w
1998 Shrub - Black Chokeberry ,
Aronia melanocarpa
Highly adaptable to a variety of soil
conditions, the black chokeberry will complement landscapes throughout
the state. Attractive small white flowers in spring and glossy, deep
green foliage in summer. Particularly effective in the fall with clusters
of blackish-purple fruit and wine red to purple leaf color, this 5'
h 3' w shrub is hardy to zone 3. 'Viking,' 'Elata' and 'Autumn Magic'
are excellent selections.
Previous Trees of the Year
 2008 Tree--Ostrya virginiana , American Hophornbeam
Graceful medium-sized native tree with horizontal branches forming an interesting zig-zag pattern. Sinewy bark and catkins in winter; hops-like fruits in summer; heart-shaped leaves are soft to the touch and change to a mild yellow in the fall. Slow-growing until established. Resists ice, snow, insects and disease. Grows best in part shade away from hot, windswept areas and salted winter roads. 30-40' h, 20-25' w. Hardy to zone 4 .
 2007 Tree—Aesculus glabra, Ohio Buckeye
This native species has attractive dark green leaves that may turn pumpkin orange in fall, but often variable. Greenish-yellow flowers in terminal clusters during May. Coarse winter habit, handsome bark. Adapted throughout the state. 30-40' h, 25-30' w. Hardy to zone 4
 2006 Tree—Chinkapin Oak, Quercus muehlenbergii
Chinkapin oak is one of our most beautiful native oaks. It is at its best in the Great Plains, where it has been found growing on rocky bluffs, in floodplains and in forests, making it the most adaptable and widespread of the chestnut oaks. One of the more alkaline-tolerant and faster-growing oaks, it performs well under drought conditions. Hardy to zone 4. Attractive 6" long, sharp-toothed leaves turn a pleasant yellow to light orange in fall. Picturesque older specimens have shaggy gray bark and beautiful branch structure.  2005 Tree-Ginkgo, Ginkgo biloba
One of the most distinct and beautiful of all deciduous trees and a durable tree for difficult landscape situations. Bright green, fan-shaped leaves are actually fern leaves from the Age of the Reptiles and native in North America at one time. Leaves can turn a brilliant golden yellow in fall. Pyramidal in youth, in old age, a well-developed Ginkgo is an impressive sight, forming large picturesque branches and handsome bark. Female trees produce a malodorous fruit after 20 years, so usually only male trees are selected. In western Nebraska the Ginkgo prefers a protected site with supplemental moisture to get established. We recommend male selections 'Autumn Gold' and 'Princeton Sentry' for the landscape. 50-60' h, 30-40' w. Hardy to zone 4.
 2004 Tree-Bur
Oak, Quercus macrocarpa
With its wide, welcoming limbs and cooling
shade, the bur oak was a welcome site on the prairie savannah. Despite
rumor, bur oaks don't take forever to grow, but they can get big. Withstands
drought, wind and extreme cold and heavy soils of the Midwest and
is easy to grow if planted as a young tree. The large dark green leaves
generally turn yellow to brown in fall and brown bark becomes deeply
ridged and furrowed with age.
The acorns, enclosed by a heavily fringed cap, are an excellent source
of food for wildlife. With its massive trunk and broad crown of branches
the bur oak is more suited to large areas and makes for an excellent,
durable street tree. Native to the Great Plains. 50-60' h, 45-50' w. Hardy
to zone 2.
2003 Tree-  Concolor
Fir, Abies concolor
This is the most adaptable of the firs
for the Midwestern landscape and one of the most beautiful conifers.
Horizontally tiered branches and short flat needles create an elegant,
pyramidal crown. Soft needles vary from green to blue-green to almost
silver-blue and are flattened. It prefers deep, rich and well-drained
soils and dislikes heavy clay and over-irrigated lawns. 30-50' h, 15'-25'
w. Hardy to zone 4.
 2002 Tree - Kentucky Coffeetree,
Gymnocladus dioicus
This is a durable native tree with
bold winter habit and handsome, ridged bark. The large, compound leaves
are a beautiful blue-green summer color and often turn clear yellow
before falling. With age the tree's habit becomes uniform, producing
a picturesque crown of rugged branches that form striking winter architecture.Adaptable
to a wide range of conditions such as heavy clay, drought, and city
conditions. Female plants produce beautiful mahogany colored seed pods
that persist through winter. 50'-60' tall and 40-50' w. Hardy to zone
3b. A truly handsome tree!
2001 Tree - Baldcypress ,
Taxodium distichum
A stately conifer that has proven hardy
and adaptable across the eastern Great Plains. Deciduous, needlelike
leaves are soft "sage" green in summer, turn orange-tan before
dropping in the fall. Relatively fast-growing, reaching 50-70 feet in
height. Mature trees are pyramidal, can assume picturesque buttressed
trunk. Native to wetlands but has proven adaptable to dry, compacted
soils. Chlorosis will occur in high pH soils.
 2000 Tree - Pagoda Dogwood,
Cornus alternifolia
Small tree with striking horizontal multi-tiered
branches. White flower clusters in late spring. Plant in full sun or
light shade in well-drained soil. Grows to 25 ' h. Hardy to zone 4.
1999 Tree - Swamp White Oak ,
Quercus bicolor
Swamp white oak is a large tree (50’)
comparable to the size of many other oak species and has a leaf resembling
both burr and white oak. The name bicolor refers to the two-colored
leaf, green above and the white velvety pubescence below. It does get
a hint of fall color, usually golden brown to light brown. Swamp white
is found throughout north central Missouri, all of eastern Iowa and
southern Minnesota. Soil pH can be a problem, high soil pH (>7.2)
can cause leaf chlorosis. As far as landscape sites, this oak seems
to be one of the most versatile. It can withstand poorly drained or
compacted sites as well as dry upland soil.
 1998 Tree - Serviceberry,
Amelanchier x grandiflora
This small tree, with its pinkish white
pendulous blossoms, delicious fruit and rich yellow to dusty red fall
color should find a place in many of today's smaller landscapes. Will
tolerate full sun or partial shade and performs well in a variety of
soils. A hybrid of A. arborea and A. laevis, this serviceberry
is hardy to zone 4. 15-20' h, 15-20' w. Recommendations: Autumn Brilliance', 'Robin Hill' and 'Forest Prince.'
CONIFERS OF THE YEAR--New in 2009
 2008 Conifer-- Pinus bungeana , Lacebark Pine
This Chinese native is one of the most beautiful pines, with the bark flaking away to create a patchwork of white, green and purple. Lustrous deep green needles are stiff and sharply pointed. Slow-growing, prefers well-drained, dry soils and full sun. Pyramidal when young, often with many trunks. Grows into an open, picturesque specimen with age. 30-40' high. Hardy to zone 4.
Previous Grasses of the Year
 2008 Grass--Bouteloua gracilis , Blue Grama
Beautiful, short native grass that forms low mats of curly, narrow 3-6” leaves. The eyelash-like seedheads rise above tufts of foliage to 18” high in July and persist all winter. Blue grama is more drought tolerant than buffalograss and can be planted with wildflowers to create a short grass prairie habitat. Short stature allows it to be used in the front of a mixed perennial border or as a turfgrass alternative in areas of low traffic and hot, droughty conditions. 18” h, 18” w. Hardy to zone 4.
 2007 Grass—Calamagrostis brachytricha,
Korean Feather Reed Grass
The glossy green foliage is topped by feathery inflorescences, tinted red-purple in September. This clump-forming grass is easy to grow in a variety of soils in partial shade to full sun. Effective as a specimen, in masses or as a container plant. Hardy to zone 4.
 2006 Grass—Autumn Red Miscanthus, Miscanthus sinensis var. purpurascens ‘Autumn Red’
As a group among grasses, miscanthus is unmatched in the diversity and beauty of its flowers, foliage, autumn colors, and winter interest. Reliable red-orange fall leaf color, compact 3-4’ height, upright habit, early flowering, and extreme cold-hardiness make ‘Autumn Red’ a superb choice among the hundred or more varieties. Rarely if ever self-sows. Hardy to zone 4.
 2005 Grass—Sideoats Grama, Bouteloua curtipendula
This durable native grass has delicate, oat-like spikelets that hang to one side of the inflorescence in summer, arching to 3' above the basal mound of gray-green foliage. Numerous seedheads are purplish when they first appear in June and July, then bleach to straw color as they age. Autumn foliage is generally bronze-purple to orange and red, to straw-colored in winter. articularly handsome when backlit by the sun or combined with little bluestem and prairie wildflowers. It spreads slowly to form a dense mat of foliage that is ideal for erosion control, choking out weeds or mass plantings. Hardy to zone 4.
2004 Grass —Indiangrass, Sorghastrum nutans
One of the Great Plains
most beautiful native grasses! Attractive, upright, clumping,
warm season grass that makes an excellent tall background or specimen
plant. Foliage ranges from various shades of green to almost blue
topped by silky-soft, golden seedheads in late summer to early autumn.
In fall it yellows and dries to an attractive burnt orange, remaining showy through winter. Apowerful late season statement in the landscape at 5-7'. Grows
readily in full sun on any well-drained soil, from dry sand to heavy clay,
but prefers rich, deep soils. Benefits from additional water in
summer in the west and reseeds itself in areas with
adequate moisture. Some cultivars include 'Holt', 'Bluebird',
and 'Sioux Blue'. Hardy to zone 4. 2003 Grass— Prairie
Dropseed, Sporobolus heterolepis
An exciting native bunch grass with graceful
ribbon-thin leaves adding an element of softness to the landscape. Abundant
seed heads form a veil over the mound of leaf blades beginning in late
summer. As the fall season approaches, emerald green leaf blades change
to a striking golden-orange color. Slow growing at first, it prefers
full sun, well-drained soils and will not tolerate an over-irrigated
site. Once established you will enjoy its dependable fountain-like habit
for years. 2' h, 18" w. Hardy to zone 3.
 (1998 Perennial) - Little Bluestem,
Schizycharium scoparium
This small, non-spreading bunch grass
will find a place in almost every perennial bed or border. The bluish-green
leaves turn bronze-red in the fall and the fluffy silver-white seedheads
persist into winter. A tough, dependable performer in hot, sunny locations.
Adaptable to a variety of soils and performs best when not overwatered.
Nebraska's state grass. Hardy to zone 2. 2' h 18" w
GreatPlants® Releases
Releases are named cultivars developed
by GreatPlants®
The plants developed by the GreatPlants program are well-adapted to
the Plains climate. They are all drought tolerant and prefer well-drained
or raised soils to perform their best. Extreme care must be taken not
to overwater these plants, especially when dormant.
 2008 Release-- Prairie Gold® Quaking Aspen, Populus tremuloides ‘NeArb'. This fast-growing tree grows in everything from moist sandy soil to shallow rocky soils and clay. Attractive cream-colored bark, beautiful silvery catkins in early spring, and lustrous dark green leaves that flutter in the slightest breeze, turning yellow in fall. Quaking aspen is normally a relatively short-lived ornamental tree for the landscape, often plagued by a host of diseases at an early age, including canker, leaf spot, and borers. Prairie Gold® has performed well, even in the heat and high humidity of eastern Nebraska , and appears to be resistant to the diseases that usually plague this species. Should perform well in other parts of the Great Plains and the front range of the Rockies as well. Best planted in a confined bed or surrounded by turf grass to minimize suckering. Grows to 35-40' high and 20-30' wide.
 2008 Release--Dwarf Chinkapin Oak, Quercus prinoides. This handsome native is one of the best shrub oaks available. The height of this tree rarely exceeds 15 ft. with equal width, perfect for the smallest yard. This is an oak for eye level with its lustrous, dark green leaves and sulphur-yellow spring catkins. In fall chestnut-like leaves turn yellow-brown to bronze highlighted with clusters of tasty acorns, very attractive to wildlife, and forming on trees only 3-4 ft. tall! Grow as a large shrub with picturesque branching or prune into a single trunk to expose attractive bark. Grows best in full sun and deep, well-drained soils but will also thrive in clay and rocky soils. Hardy to zone 4.
 2008 Release--Dianthus ‘Wink'. Excellent groundcover, forming neat, blue 4”h foliage mounds that remain evergreen in winter. The plant is covered with delicate soft pink flowers from mid spring to early summer. Shearing plants after flowering promotes new growth and additional flowers in the summer. A dependable performer, very drought-tolerant and not subject to the centers dying out as with other Dianthus selections. Grows to 6” high, 15” wide. Hardy to zone 4.
 2007 Release—Prairie Lode Yellow Sundrops, Calylophus serrulatus ‘Prairie Lode’
A low, shrubby, woody-based perennial, native to dry prairies in the Great Plains, typically growing 15-18" tall. Prairie Lode is an outstanding selection from Harlan Hamernik that behaves more like a spreading groundcover on plants only 6" high. Abundant yellow flowers remain open throughout the day. Butter yellow flowers (to 1" wide) bloom from mid-spring to late summer. Likes lean, well-drained soil and a good shearing before the growing season starts in late spring to keep it looking tidy and loaded with flowers. Great for rock gardens, dry border fronts or prairie areas.
  2007 Release—Mongolian Silver Spires Littleleaf Peashrub
Caragana microphylla ‘Mongolian Silver Spires’
The sparkling ferny silver leaves of this durable shrub offer a fine-textured companion to the abundant 1" yellow flowers in spring. Flowers are followed by smooth, narrow seed pods that turn a rich red color in summer. This 8-9’ xeric shrub was selected by Harlan Hamernik from seed collected from a Mongolian steppe. The somewhat spiny stems and upright, arching habit offer a natural buffer for a hedge, low windbreak or living fence. The plant is quite adaptable and can be grown in adverse conditions. Hardy to zone 2.
 2006 Release—Rock clematis, Clematis columbiana var. tenuiloba
This prized rock garden clematis has ascending or erect 6” non-vining stems with longer stems trailing or leaning on neighboring vegetation or rocks. Forms an attractive groundcover with smooth, slightly glossy leaves.
Light blue to lavender flowers, slender and
tapering, are arranged in a nodding fashion to add character and grace to this lovely Black Hills native. Prefers part shade and thrives in clay, limestone rubble or garden loam. When well-established this clematis is very long-lived.
 2006 Release—Silver Sunrise™ bluestem, Andropogon ‘Silver Sunrise’
This prairie native is a selection of a hybrid between big bluestem, Andropogon gerardii, and sand bluestem, Andropogon hallii. Silvery basal foliage reaches a height of 2’ by early summer. Interesting yellow bands appear all the way up the 5-6’ flowering stalks. The seed heads, hairy and golden-yellow in color, appear in early August. When planted in groups, the grass is impressive in the low light of early autumn. Frost turns the silvery foliage purple to reddish-brown and stems form a golden-yellow to russet-brown hue. Will perform best and remain upright planted in full sun with well-drained, dry soils. Tough, low-maintenance plant for the perennial backdrop, grass garden, prairie and xeriscape.
 2006 Release—Prairie Snow shell-leaf penstemon,
Penstemon grandiflorus ‘Prairie Snow’
This outstanding shell-leaf penstemon is a unique species because of its snow white flowers. Plants form a rosette of greenish-gray, thick leaves the first year of growth and begin to flower the second. Large flowers are arranged in groups above a pair of rounded leaves at the tops of 3’ stems. They bloom for 3-4 weeks in June and soon develop attractive seed heads that remain through winter. Cut seed heads and scatter seed for new plants next year, or use in dried arrangements.
 2006 Release—Prairie Pink dianthus,
Dianthus caryophyllus ‘Prairie Pink’
This exciting dianthus was selected for its winter hardiness, compact growth, attractive fuchsia pink double flowers and repeat blooming. Fragrant flowers, accentuated by bright blue-green foliage, bloom in early June for 2-4 weeks and repeat in late summer. Does best in full sun and in soil with good drainage. Grows 15"-18" high. Hardy to zone 5 or lower.
 2006 Release—Eureka thickspike gayfeather,
Liatris pycnostachya ‘Eureka’
This majestic wildflower sends up spectacular 5’ flower spikes in mid-summer, with the top foot or so crowded with feathery, reddish-purple flowers. This outstanding native is found in moist soils but does not tolerate wet feet in winter. Planted in masses, it is breathtaking in the garden and never fails to garner attention.
 2005 Release—Prairie Splendor Penstemon
Aagnificent Penstemon developed by
Dale Lindgren at University of Nebraska North Platte Station and
registered with American Penstemon Society in 1993. The result of a cross between P. cobaea and P. triflorus,
resulting in large, robust flowers in shades of rose, lavender, pink
and white. Perhaps the largest flowers of any penstemon available today!
The flower spikes rise above attractive, glossy foliage to just over
26" high and bloom throughout the month of June. A short-lived perennial, living 3-5 years and performs best when
planted in full sun and dry, well-drained soils.
 2005 Release—War Axe Penstemon, Penstemon grandiflorus
'War Axe'
An exceptional strain
of the beautiful native, shell-leaf penstemon with a
wide range of colors--pinks, maroon, reds, purples, and creamy
white--nicely complemented with
reddish pigmented stems. This upright perennial has thick, rounded gray-green
leaves neatly arranged along the flower stalk with numerous large tubular
flowers from mid to late spring. Handsome, robust seed heads remain
attractive all year. Plants form a basal rosette
the first year and flower the second, reaching a height of 2-3'.
The flower stalks can be removed to increase longevity of the plant
or allow it to self-sow in the garden. Performs best in full
sun and well-drained soil. Discovered by Harlan Hamernik
of Bluebird Nursery near the War Axe Wildlife Management Area in south
central Nebraska.
2005 Release—Lemon Lace Vine- Fallopia 'Lemon Lace' 
'Lemon Lace' vine is an attractive, sparkling
golden-leafed sport of the silver-lace vine. The silver-lace vine is
often referred to as mile-a-minute vine due to its rampant growth, but
the 'Lemon Lace' is more reserved, more like a half-mile-a-minute vine.
This exciting lemon-colored vine also features red stems and petioles
in early spring and again in fall when foamy white flowers compliment
the bright foliage. It's ideal to add a crisp brightness to the trellis,
fence or small tree for contrast. The color remains bright all season
and persists well into fall with no scorch on the heart-shaped leaves.
It's easy to grow in full sun or part shade and grows to 4-5' high and
wide the first year. This beautiful new vine was discovered by Pam Bahns
of Bluebird Nursery.
 2005 Release—Wichita Mountains Goldenrod, Solidago
'Wichita Mountains'
A true golden-rod selection,
with numerous 2" thick bright golden rods up to 12" tall in
late summer until frost. Easy to grow in a
variety of soils and soil conditions, but best with well-drained
conditions and full sun. This clump-forming goldenrod was discovered
in the Wichita Mountains of southwestern Oklahoma by Steve Bieberich
of Sunshine Nursery. 24-30" tall. Hardy to zone 4.
 2004 Releases
Mongolian Mist pincushion flower,
Scabiosa superba ‘Mongolian Mist’
Large, dazzling, purple-blue pincushions
arise from substantial 18" stems above elegant deep green 12"
mounds of foliage. Collected in Inner Mongolia. Rigorous selection has
given us ‘Mongolian Mist’. Hardy to zone 4.
 Smoky Hills prairie skullcap, Scutellaria resinosa ‘Smoky Hills’ (2004)
A densely branched little bush growing to a 10" high mound from
a deep taproot. Bright purple-blue flowers, dotted with tiny white lines,
cover the plant from mid-May to late June. Small, gray-green leaves
are in harmony with the small, round flowers. Deadheading will provide
new growth andbloom through fall. Thrives in hot, sunny areas with well-drained,
dry soil. This durable shortgrass prairie native was named for the Smoky
Hills of north central Kansas where it was collected. Hardy to zone
4.
 Mongolian Gem allium,
Allium senescens sub. ‘Mongolian Gem’ (2004)
Handsome blue-green, strap-like leaves are followed in late summer by
18" stems of decorative 2" lavender-pink flowers. Use throughout
the garden for the pinkish lavender balloon-like flowers giving a festive
or carnival-like feeling. Has bronzy yellow fall foliage. Hardy to Zone
3.
 Mongolian Stars sedum,
Sedum tatarinowii ‘Mongolian Stars’ (2004)
This charmer is only 5-8" tall and up to 12" wide with a nice
mounded habit. Bluish-green, coarsely toothed leaves turn rosy pink
in late summer . The dense clusters of dainty flowers are pinkish-white,
covering the plant from July through August. “A most attractive,
though relatively unknown miniature member of the Tall Sedums”
says Ray Stephenson. Give it good drainage, plenty of sun and little
water. A good rock garden plant. Hardy to zone 3.
 2003 Release – Taylor Junipe,
Juniperus virginiana ‘Taylor’
Outstanding upright conical-columnar form (a mature tree will be up
to 25’ tall and 3’ wide) with emerald green summer foliage.
An excellent specimen, grouping and screening plant for narrow areas
of the landscape. This hardy, disease-resistant selection performs well
in the landscape and tolerates a wide variety of soil and environmental
conditions. In trials it has performed well throughout Nebraska, Minnesota,
North Dakota and Oklahoma. Hardy to zone 3.
 2003 Introduction – Mongolian Skies Skull Cap,
Scutellaria scoridifolia 'Mongolian Skies'
Outstanding subshrub from seed collected in Inner Mongolia. Slowly spreads
to form 8" high foliage mats of narrow, shiny, deep green foliage.
Blooms from June to August with beautiful, tubular hooded flowers of
purple to violet blue that crowd into clusters near the uppermost leaves.
To perform at its best this long-blooming perennial requires full sun
and a drier site in a well-drained, gravelly, loam. Hardy to zone 4.
8" high, 2' wide.
2003 Introduction – Dwarf spiderwort, Tradescantia tharpii
An exciting new spiderwort for the
garden that blooms throughout the month of May in a variety of colors.
The plants bloom profusely and the showy 1" flowers, tipped with
bright yellow stamens, literally cover the plant. The candy-colored
flowers are usually a rich rose but can occasionally be light pink,
violet-blue or purple. A tufted perennial emerging early in the spring,
forming 12" mounds of linear leaves that are covered with silvery
hairs. Carefree and happy in sun or part shade. Will go into a natural
semidormancy during the heat of the summer, with new fans appearing
in the cooler days of fall and remaining through the winter.
 2002 Release – Stephanie Purple Prairie Clover, Dalea
purpurea 'Stephanie'Bright
lavender flowers on compact 15-18” bushy plants with as many as
40 stalks per plant! Great new selection with darker green foliage that
stays upright. A prize from UNL breeder Dale Lindgren. Grows in full
sun and well-drained soil. Hardy to zone 4.
 2001 Release - Comanche Campfire Primrose
Oenothera macrocarpa 'Comanche Campfire'
Large shiny silver leaves are complemented by glowing ruby stems throughout
the season, opped with huge, delicious bright yellow flowers from
June through October. Plants are 12-15" tall and 18-24" wide, thrive
in full sun and are hardy to Zone 4.
 2000 Release – Logan Calhoun Poppy Mallow
Callirhoe alcaeoides ‘Logan Calhoun’
Sparkling white "wine cups" on pants that are 8-12" tall,
4' wide. Outstanding Great Plains native named after native American
plantsman. Enjoys the same cultural conditions as its better known cousin,
purple poppy mallow. Native to the Great Plains.
1999 Release - My Antonia Aster ,
Aster fendleri 'My Antonia'
A drought-resistant native perennial with an 8-10" compact mounding
habit.
Produces delicate, pure white flowers, blooming profusely in late summer.
The foliage is dark green and fine-leaved, and the plant should be grown
in full sun in well-drained soil. ‘My Antonia’was discovered
on a plant collecting trip near Willa Cather’s birth place in Red
Cloud, Nebraska, and is named for her famous novel. Hardy to zone 4.
GreatPlants® Introductions
An introduction
is a plant species introduced to commercial production through GreatPlants®.
 2000 Introduction - Fremont's Clematis, Clematis fremontii
A Plains clematis that grows like a herbaceous perennial. It has a non-vining
habit, 20" x 12" with stems emerging in clusters. Thick, leathery leaves
emerge in early spring. Attractive 1" urn-shaped flowers with thick blue
to purple petals, blooming in May. Like most clematis species, it can
take several years to grow into maturity. A rare native to the Great Plains!
1999 Introduction - Mongolian Gold Clematis ,
Clematis fruticosa
A 4 foot shrub with finely textured foliage collected from the Daqing
Shan Mountains of Inner Mongolia, China. This shrub features clusters
of yellow, bell-like flowers blooming profusely in late summer to fall,
followed by silky seed heads. Mongolian Gold tolerates full sun and
partial shade, and prefers well-drained soil. Hardy to zone 4.
Cumulative GreatPlants
Tree of the Year
2011 – Carya ovata, shagbark hickory
2010 – Cladrastis kentukea, American yellowwood
2009 – Cornus mas, Corneliancherry dogwood
2008 – Ostrya virginiana, American hophornbeam
2007 – Aesculus glabra, Ohio buckeye
2006 – Quercus muehlenbergii, chinkapin oak
2005 – Ginkgo biloba, ginkgo
2004 – Quercus macrocarpa, bur oak
2003 – Abies concolor, concolor fir
2002 – Gymnocladus dioicus, Kentucky coffeetree
2001 – Taxodium distichum, baldcypress
2000 – Cornus alternifolia, pagoda dogwood
1999 – Quercus bicolor, swamp white oak
1998 – Amelanchier xgrandiflora, apple serviceberry
Evergreen of the Year
2011 – Abies balsamea var. phanerolepis, Canaan fir
2010 – Pinus cembra, Swiss stone pine
2009 – Picea omorika, Serbian spruce
2008 – Pinus bungeana, lacebark pine
Shrub of the Year
2011 – Heptacodium miconioides, seven-son flower
2010 – Aesculus parvifolia, bottlebrush buckeye
2009 – Mahonia repens, creeping mahonia
2008 – Euonymus atropurpurea, eastern wahoo
2007 – Amelanchier alnifolia ‘Regent’, Regent serviceberry
2006 – Rosa glauca (R. rubrifolia), redleaf rose
2005 – Spiraea fritschiana, Korean spirea
2004 – Ribes odoratum, clove currant
2003 – Viburnum prunifolium, blackhaw viburnum
2002 – Hypericum kalmianum, Kalm St. Johnswort
2001 – Hydrangea quercifolia, oakleaf hydrangea
2000 – Symphoricarpos xchenaultii, Chenault coralberry
1999 – Viburnum carlesii, Koreanspice viburnum
1998 – Aronia melanocarpa, black chokeberry
Perennial of the Year
2011 – Phlox divaricata, woodland phlox
2010 – Eupatorium maculatum ‘Gateway’, Gateway Joe-Pye plant
2009 – Amsonia hubrichtii, narrowleaf bluestar
2008 – Geum triflorum, prairie smoke
2007 – Solidago rugosa ‘Fireworks’, Fireworks goldenrod
2006 – Pulsatilla species, pasque flower
2005 – Baptisia minor, dwarf blue indigo
2004 – Polygonatum multiflorum ‘Variegatum’, variegated Solomon’s seal
2003 – Echinacea species, coneflower
2002 – Geranium sanguineum, cranesbill
2001 – Penstemon species, beardtongue
2000 – Asclepias tuberosa, butterfly milkweed
1999 – Amorpha canescens, leadplant
1998 – Schizachyrium scoparium, little bluestem
Grass of the Year
2011 – Carex morrowii ‘Ice Dance’, Ice Dance sedge
2010 – Eragrostis trichodes, sand lovegrass
2009 – Panicum virgatum ‘Shenandoah’, Shenandoah switchgrass
2008 – Bouteloua gracilis, blue grama
2007 – Calamagrostis brachytricha, Korean feather reed grass
2006 – Miscanthus sinensis v. purpurascens ‘Autumn Red’, Autumn Red miscanthus
2005 – Bouteloua curtipendula, sideoats grama
2004 – Sorghastrum nutans, Indiangrass
2003 – Sporobolus heterolepis, prairie dropseed
(1998 Perennial of the Year – Schizachyrium scoparium, little bluestem)
GreatPlants® Releases and Introductions
2009 – Clematis hexapetala ‘Mongolian Snowflakes’, Mongolian Snowflakes clematis
2009 – Monarda ‘Prairie Gypsy’, Prairie Gypsy monarda
2009 – Eupatorium ‘Prairie Jewel’, Prairie Jewel eupatorium
2008 – Dianthus ‘Wink’, Wink dianthus
2008 – Quercus prinoides, dwarf chinkapin oak
2008 – Populus tremuloides ‘Prairie Gold’, Prairie Gold quaking aspen
2007 – Caragana microphylla, Mongolian Silver Spires littleleaf peashrub
2007—Calylophus serrulatus ‘Prairie Lode’, Prairie Lode sundrops
2006 Release – Penstemon grandiflorus ‘Prairie Snow’, Prairie Snow penstemon
2006 Release – Liatris pycnostachya ‘Eureka’, Eureka gayfeather
2006 Release – Dianthus ‘Prairie Pink’, Prairie Pink dianthus
2006 Release – Andropogon ‘Silver Sunrise’™ , Silver Sunrise bluestem
2006 Release – Clematis tenuiloba ‘Pixie Parasols’, Pixie Parasols clematis
2005 Release – Penstemon grandiflorus ‘War Axe’, War Axe penstemon
2005 Release – Penstemon x ‘Prairie Splendor’, Prairie Splendor penstemon
2005 Release – Fallopia ‘Lemon Lace’, Lemon Lace vine
2005 Release – Solidago ‘Wichita Mountains’, Wichita Mountains goldenrod
2004 Release – Scutellaria resinosa, Smoky Hills skullcap
2004 Release – Scabiosa superba ‘Mongolian Mist’, Mongolian Mist pincushion flower
2004 Release – Allium senescens ‘Mongolian Gem’, Mongolian Gem allium
2004 Release – Sedum tatarowinii ‘Mongolian Stars’, Mongolian Stars sedum
2003 Release – Juniperus virginiana ‘Taylor’, Taylor juniper
2003 Introduction – Scutellaria scoridifolia 'Mongolian Skies', Mongolian Skies skullcap
2003 Introduction – Tradescantia tharpii, dwarf spiderwort
2002 Release – Dalea purpurea 'Stephanie', Stephanie purple prairie clover
2001 Release – Oenothera macrocarpa 'Comanche Campfire', Comanche Campfire primrose
2000 Release – Callirhoe alcaeoides 'Logan Calhoun', Logan Calhoun poppy mallow
2000 Introduction – Clematis fremontii, Fremont's clematis
1999 Release – Aster fendleri ‘My Antonia’, My Antonia aster
1999 Introduction – Clematis fruticosa ‘Mongolian Gold’, Mongolian Gold clematis
Other Plant Promotion Programs
GreatPlants for the GreatPlains
Grow Native
Plants
of Merit
Plant Select
Nebraska Statewide Arboretum
P.O. Box 830715
University of Nebraska
Lincoln, NE 68583-0715
402-472-2971
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