Common Name

Genus Species

Type [Bloom Month(s)]

First Date(s)

Comments

N NATIVE
E EDENTON HEIRLOOM
P DONALD PARKER
X NOT CURRENTLY IN GARDEN

gj

A

Aaron’s Rod, Carolina Lupine

Thermopsis villosa, Syn. T. caroliniana
Perennial [5, 6]
Mountains of AL, TN, NC, SC, GA, WV. Cut foliage back about a month after flowering.
N 

American Beautyberry

Callicarpa americana
Shrub [7, 8]
1724: M. Catesby sent them to England from SC; 1771: T. Jefferson
Eastern N. America (MD to FL to TX). Inconspicuous flowers but known for its clusters of bright purple berries in the fall.
N 

American Bittersweet

Celastrus scandens
Vine [5, 6]
1783: Bartram
Introduced in 1736.
N   P   X

American Columbine, Red Columbine

Aquilegia canadensis
Perennial [4, 5]
1736: Wm Byrd II; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1791: T. Jefferson
N. American native, North Carolina.
N   E   P  

American Elm

Ulmus americana
Tree [4]
1670: D. Henchman (Boston); 1709: J. Lawson; 1785: Mt. Vernon; 1790: T. Jefferson
North American native (Gaspe to Saskatchewan and south to FL & TX). Introduced to England in 1752. Volunteer in fence line on west side after 1976.
N   X

American Holly

Ilex opaca
Tree [5]
1772: T. Jefferson; 1783 Bartram; 1785: Mt. Vernon
N. American native (MA to FL to TX).
N   P   X

Anemone, Wind Poppy ‘De Caen’

Anemone coronaria ‘De Caen’
Annual Tuber [2, 3, 4]
1655: Van der Donck; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1790s: Faris; 1807: M’Mahon & T. Jefferson
Southern Europe, Mediterranean. Introduced to Britain in 1592. The DeCaen hybrids were developed in the Caen & Bayeux districts of northern France in the 18th century.

Anise Hyssop ‘Blue Fortune’

Agastache foeniculum ‘Blue Fortune’
Perennial Herb [7, 8, 9]
Native to North America
N   X

Anise, Sweet Cicely

Myrrhis odorata
Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7]
1780s: Mt. Vernon
Southern Europe. 1649 Culpeper. Linnaeus (1707-1778).
P   X

Annual Wormwood, Sweet Annie

Artemisia annua
Annual Herb [8]
1709: J. Lawson
Temperate regions of the northern hemisphere
N   X

Apothecary Rose

Rosa gallica officinalis
Shrub [5, 6]
1761: Bethabara
South & Central Europe east to Turkey and the Caucasus. An emblem of the House of Lancaster during War of the Roses in the 15th Century. Popular with apothecaries of the Middle Ages.

Apple ‘Albemarle Pippin’, first known as ‘Newtown Pippin’

Malus pumila ‘Albemarle Pippin’
Tree [4]
1700
Kazakhstan. 1700 Grown by Newtown Creek in NY state on estate of Gershom Moore. 1755 William Smith, Surry County, VA. 1769 T. Jefferson. 1799 Richard Parkinson declared it the New World’s best apple.

Apple ‘Horse Apple’, ‘Pound Sweet’, ‘Pumpkin Sweet’

Malus pumila ‘Horse Apple’, ‘Pound Sweet’, ‘Pumpkin Sweet’
Tree [4]
1763: T. Sorsby
Kazakhstan.
P   X

Apple ‘Mattamuskeet’

Malus pumila ‘Mattamuskeet’
Tree [4]
Kazakhstan. Legend states this cultivar probably originated near Lake Mattamuskeet, NC, and that the seed was taken from the gizzard of a wild goose by the Mattamuskeet Indians.

Apple Mint

Mentha suaveolens
Perennial Herb [7, 8]
Europe. J. F. Ehrhart (1742-1795). Favretti states suitable for 1600-1776 garden.
P   X

Arabian Jasmine

Jasminum sambac
Perennial Vine [8, 9]
1738: Collinson sent to Custis
South Asia (India?), freezes to ground in Zone 8, then blooms late summer/fall, very fragrant
X

Auricula, Mountain Cowslip, Bear’s Ear

Primula auricula
Perennial [4, 5]
1767: T. Jefferson
Northern Europe. 1596 Gerard’s Herbal. Yellow, 6”-12” tall. Anne Isabella Iredell (daughter of Judge James and Hannah Johnston Iredell) requested auricular seeds in a letter dated August 27, 1806 to her brother James who was studying at Princeton. She was an avid gardener and thought James might be able to obtain seeds from ladies of his acquaintance. Anne lived on Church St. in Edenton, NC.
X

Autumn Crocus, Meadow Saffron, Naked Ladies

Colchicum autumnale
Perennial Corm [9]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith
Central to Southeastern Europe including Britain
X

Bachelor’s Button, Cornflower

Centaurea cyanus
Annual to Biennial [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
1760: Townley (Boston); 1780s: Mt. Vernon; ca. 1800: T. Jefferson
Europe & Northern Asia. Can be invasive.
X

Balloon Flower

Platycodon grandiflorum
Perennial [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1806: M’Mahon
China, Japan, Korea, E. Siberia.
P   

Bears Breeches ‘Summer Beauty’

Acanthus mollis ‘Summer Beauty’
Perennial [7, 8]
1780s: Mt. Vernon
Greece.

Beebalm, Bergamot

Monarda didyma
Perennial Herb [6, 7, 8]
1783: Bartram; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1790s: Faris
New York to Michigan and south to Georgia & Tennessee.
N   P 

Blackberry Lily

Belamcanda chinensis AKA Iris domestica
Perennial [7, 8]
1793 J. Skipwith, 1807 T. Jefferson
Asia

Bloodroot

Sanguinaria canadensis
Perennial Herb [3]
1735: Custis; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith
Eastern North America
N 

Bloody Geranium, Cranesbill Geranium

Geranium sanguineum
Perennial [4, 5, 6, 7]
Europe. Linneaus (1707-1778).
E   X

Blue Flag Iris

Iris virginica
Perennial Rhizome [5]
Native (VA to LA)
N 

Blue Flax

Linum perenne
Perennial [5, 6]
1736: Wm. Byrd II
Europe
X

Blue Mistflower, Blue Ageratum

Conoclinium coelestinum, Syn. Eupatorium coelestinum
Perennial [9, 10]
1780s: Mt. Vernon
N. American native (Eastern USA)
N 

Blue Passion Flower

Passiflora caerulea
Perennial Vine [7, 8]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon
Tropical S. America
X

Blue-Eyed Grass

Sisyrinchium angustifolia
Perennial [4, 5, 6]
ca. 1800: T. Jefferson
Native to coastal plain of NC to FL and west to TX
N  

Bouquet Dill

Anethum graveolens
Annual Herb [6, 7]
1709: J. Lawson; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1761: Bethabara
Europe. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
P 

Boxwood

Buxus microphylla var. koreana x B. sempervirens ‘Green Mountain’
Shrub [N/A]
1966: Introduced by Sheridan Nursery
Sheridan Nursery hybrid box introduced in 1966, and similar in growth to B. sempervirens ‘Arborescens’ but more refined. Also planted on either side of the path leading from back door to the herb garden.

Bread Seed Poppy

Papaver somniferum
Annual [5, 6]
1760: Townley (Boston); 1761: Bethabara; 1781: Dr. Bond Philadelphia, PA
Greece, Subtropical Asia.
E 

Bulbous Buttercup

Ranunculus bulbosus
Perennial [2, 3, 4, 5, 6]
Europe, N. Africa, Caucasus. Favretti states suitable for 1776-1850 garden.

Butterflyweed, Pleurisy Root

Asclepias tuberosa
Perennial [6, 7, 8]
1736: J. Custis; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1783: Bartram
N. American native.
N   P 

Byzantine Gladiola

Gladiolus communis ssp. byzantinus
Perennial Corm [4, 5]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith
Eastern Mediterranean. 1629 Hatfield House/Cranborne Garden Centre.

Blackeyed Susan, Gloriosa Daisy, Yellow Oxeye Daisy

Rudbeckia hirta
Perennial [6, 7, 8]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1783: Bartram
North America (Canada, Eastern USA). Cultivated in Britain in 1732 by James Sherard.
N   P   

Cabbage

Brassica oleracea
Annual Vegetable [N/A]
1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1736: Collinson sent to Custis; 1759: Bethabara
Europe and Mediterranean. 1722 Joseph Miller.
P X

Camellia

Camellia japonica
Shrub [1, 2, 12]
1790: Michaux gave to H. Middleton, Charleston; 1798: John Stevens NJ; 1800: Michael Floy, NY
Korea, China, Japan. Introduced in 1740. ‘Single Red’ or double white ‘Alba Plena’ (Intro. 1597) are earliest varieties. Known as “Japonica” in the South. ‘Reine de Fleurs’ given to Henry Middleton by Andre Michaux, Charleston, SC in 1790. Camellia sasanqua arrived later.
X

Campernelle (Campernelli) Jonquil

Narcissus x odorus
Perennial Bulb [2, 3, 4]
circa 1801: Elgin Bot. Garden, Elgin, NY; 1806: M’Mahon
Eastern Mediterranean. Hybrid cross between the wild jonquil and the Lent Lily (N. pseudonarcissus) but is regarded as a botanical because it was discovered as a wild flower in the 17th century. Listed by Clusius in 1595 and Linnaeus in 1762. Favretti states suitable for 1776-1850 garden. 13Y-Y, Early blooming. Some bulbs rescued with permission from old Chowan County homestead.
E 

Canterbury Bells

Campanula medium
Biennial [5, 6, 7]
1760: Townley (Boston); 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1799: G. French; 1802: M’Mahon
Southern Europe. Introduced 1597. 1812 T. Jefferson.
X

Caracalla Bean, Snailflower

Vigna caracalla, Syn. Phaseolus caracalla
Annual [7, 8, 9]
1792: T. Jefferson
Central America to tropical S. America. 15-20’ vine. Linnaeus (1707-1778).
X

Cardinal Flower

Lobelia cardinalis
Perennial [7, 8, 9]
1736: Wm Byrd II; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1783: Bartram; 1807: T. Jefferson
N. American native (southern & southeastern USA).
N   P   X

Cardoon, Artichoke Thistle

Cynara cardunculus
Tender Perennial Herb [6, 7]
1793: M. Collins, Va Gazette; 1802: M’Mahon
Mediterranean. Dates to 4th century BC in Greece. Nearly invisible spines can cause substantial pain - wear gloves! Seed can be highly invasive!

Carolina Cherry Laurel

Prunus caroliniana
Tree [3]
Texas to North Carolina. Good for hedging. Highly toxic!
N   X

Carolina Jasmine, Yellow Jessamine

Gelsemium sempervirens
Vine [4, 5]
1734: M. Catesby; 1771: T. Jefferson; 1783 Bartram; 1793: J. Skipwith
N. American native, Southeastern USA (VA to TX). Introduced in 1640.
N   P 

Castor Bean, Palma Christi

Ricinus communis
Annual [7, 8, 9]
1780: Mt. Vernon. 1781: T. Jefferson; 18th C.: Landon Carter (Sabine Hall) VA
Africa. Naturalized in American and Asian tropics. Introduced to Britain 1590. Gerard 1633. Can be traced to the 3rd C. BC. Source of ricin. Extremely toxic, must remove seed heads to prevent toxic seed production! One seed can be fatal.
X

Catmint, Catnip

Nepeta cataria
Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7]
1631: Winthrop, Jr.; 1790: Faris
Eastern Mediterranean. 1722 Joseph Miller.

Cayenne Pepper

Capsicum annuum
Annual Herb [5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
1759: Bethabara; 1767: T. Jefferson
Central America to Columbia. 1649 Culpeper.
P   X

Cemetery Iris, White Flag Iris

Iris albicans
Perennial Rhizome [3, 4]
Yemen & Saudi Arabia. Gaetano Savi (1769-1844). Tradition holds that the Moors brought it to Spain from the Arabian peninsula to plant on the graves of fallen Muslim soldiers. Spanish colonists then brought it to Florida in the 1500’s and planted them in cemeteries there. Has been in cultivation since at least 1400 BC.
E

Chaste Tree

Vitex agnus-castus
Tree [6, 7]
1762: Cultivated in VA; 1807: T. Jefferson
Southern Europe, Western Asia. Introduced in 1570 in England.
P

Cheddar Pinks

Dianthus gratianopolitanus
Perennial [4, 5, 6]
1760: Townley (Boston); 1767: T. Jefferson
From Cheddar Gorge in England.
P   X

Cherokee Rose

Rosa laevigata
Shrub [4, 5]
1780; 1804: T. Jefferson
S. China, Formosa, Burma.
P 

Chestnut Rose, Chinquapin Rose

Rosa roxburghii
Shrub [5, 6]
Before 1814
E. Asia (China & Himalayas). England 1820.
E 

China Aster

Callistephus chinensis, Syn. Aster chinensis
Annual [8, 9]
1735: J. Custis; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1792: Wm. Faris; 1800: G. French
China. Introduced 1728.
X

China Pinks, India Pinks

Dianthus chinensis
Annual [6, 7, 8]
1738 Collinson sent to Custis
N. China, Korea, Mongolia, SE Russia

Chinese Rose ‘Old Blush’ or ‘Old Pink Daily’

Rosa chinensis ‘Old Blush’ or ‘Old Pink Daily’
Shrub [4, 5, 9, 10]
Mid 18th Century; 1810: Champney
1752 China. Blooms irregularly all year.
E 

Chives

Allium schoenoprasum
Perennial Herb [4, 5, 6]
1709: J. Lawson; 1736: Wm Byrd II
Europe, Asia (China). Purple flower head.

Christmas Fern

Polystichum acrostichoides
Perennial [N/A]
Eastern North America
N  

Christmas Rose

Helleborus niger
Perennial [1, 12]
Austria. Culivated since Roman times. Introduced to Britain circa 1596.
X

Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum sp.
Perennial [11]
1735: J. Bartram
Europe, North Africa (White and Yellow)

Coastal Sweetpepperbush, Summersweet Clethra

Clethra alnifolia
Shrub [7, 8]
1751: J. Bartram; 1771: T. Jefferson
N. American native, Maine to Florida & Texas. Introduced to England in 1730.
N 

Cock’s Comb

Celosia cristata
Annual [8, 9]
1738: Collinson sent to Custis; 1767: T. Jefferson
Asiatic tropics. Cultivated in Britain in 1570. Some horticulturists maintain a distinction between C. argentea and C. cristata; however, both infiltrated the American colonies by the middle of the 18th C.
X

Columbine Meadow Rue, Greater Meadow Rue

Thalictrum aquilegifolium
Perennial [5, 6]
1709: J. Lawson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Eurasia
X

Common Borage

Borago officinalis
Annual Herb [6]
1709: J. Lawson; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1761: Bethabara
Europe, North Africa. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short. Edible flower.
P   X

Common Bugle

Ajuga reptans
Perennial [4, 5]
1780s: Mt. Vernon
Europe. 1649 Culpeper.

Common Comfrey

Symphytum officinale
Perennial Herb [5, 6]
1709: J. Lawson; 1761: Bethabara
Europe, Asia

Common Daffodil, Lent Lily, Early Virginia Daffodil

Narcissus pseudonarcissus
Perennial Bulb [2, 3]
1759: Bethabara; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1806: M’Mahon
Wales to Portugal.In English gardens by 1200. Narrow deep yellow trumpet and forward-swept paler yellow petals. 13Y-Y, Very early blooming. Some bulbs rescued with permission from old Chowan County homestead.
E 

Common Fig, Edible Fig

Ficus carica
Tree [N/A (see comments)]
1621 Virginia 1629 Jamestown, NY; 1769: T. Jefferson 1771 Prince Nursery
Western Asia, Southern Europe. Introduced to Britain in the 16th C. Tiny flowers are found on the inside wall of the fruit (synconium) and are fertilized by wasps.
P 

Common Grape Hyacinth

Muscari botryoides
Perennial Bulb [3]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: Spurrier
Southern Europe (Italy). Introduced to Britain in 1596.

Common Hedgenettle, Betony, Bishop’s Wort

Stachys officinalis, Syn. Betonica officinalis
Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7]
1761: Bethabara
Europe

Common Peony

Paeonia officinalis ‘Rubra Plena’
Perennial [5, 6]
1737: Brickell; 1771: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Temperate Eurasia. 1722 Joseph Miller.
P   X

Common Periwinkle

Vinca minor
Perennial [3, 4]
1771: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1807: Bartram
Europe.
P  

Common Rue

Ruta graveolens
Perennial Herb [7, 8]
1709: J. Lawson; 1761: Bethabara; 1794: T. Jefferson
Southern Europe, North Temperate Zone.
P   X

Copper Iris, Louisiana Iris hybrid

Iris fulva
Perennial Rhizome [3, 4]
Parent species are native to the Southeast. Plants termed Louisiana Iris are interspecific hybrids encompassing varying percentages of the native parent species.
N  

Coral Honeysuckle, Woodbine

Lonicera sempervirens
Vine [3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]
1771: T. Jefferson; 1783 Bartram; 1793: J. Skipwith
N. American native, Eastern USA
N  

Coriander, Chinese Parsley

Coriandrum sativum
Annual Herb [5]
1736: Wm Byrd II; 1761: Bethabara; 1820: T. Jefferson
Western Mediterranean. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
P   X

Corn Poppy, Flanders Poppy

Papaver rhoeas
Annual [3, 4, 5, 6]
M’Mahon; 1802: T. Jefferson; 1807
Eurasia and North Africa
X

Costmary

Balsamita major, Syn. Chrysanthemum balsamita
Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7, 8, 9]
1620s: Brought by Puritans
Europe, Western Asia. Linnaeus (1707-1778).
P   X

Cowslip Primrose, English Cowslip

Primula veris, Syn. P. officinalis
Perennial [4, 5]
1747: K. Risteau, Maryland
Temperate Europe and Asia. Has larger yellow flowers than the P. elatior.
X

Crape Myrtle

Lagerstroemia indica
Tree [6, 7, 8, 9]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1786: Charleston, SC
China. Introduced in 1747.
P  

Cream Narcissus, Straws, Stars, Minor Monarque

Narcissus tazetta italicus, Syn. N. x italicus
Perennial Bulb [12, 1]
1792: M. Collins; 1793: J. Skipwith; 1799: Ads in 6 southern nursery lists
Canary Islands to Japan. Off-white flowers with a small creamy yellow cup. This is a sterile hybrid between N. tazetta (cream narcissus) and N. papyraceus (paperwhite narcissus) found in Italy altho N. papyraceus is not an Italian native but was introduced long ago and naturalized along the coast. No longer available in the plant trade. Very early blooming. 8W-Y

Creeping Phlox, Moss Phlox

Phlox subulata
Perennial [3, 4, 5]
1745 Bartram
Eastern and Central United States
N  

Crested Cock’s Comb

Celosia argentea, Syn. Celosia argentea var. cristata
Annual [8, 9, 10]
1738: J. Custis; 1767: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1792: Wm. Faris
Asiatic tropics. Cultivated in Britain in 1740. ‘Pink Candle’ is best performer, but strict nostalgic gardeners would use only red as pink came later.

Crimson-eyed Rosemallow, Swamp Rosemallow, Marsh Mallow

Hibiscus moscheutos
Perennial [4, 5, 6]
1783: Bartram
N. American native (MD to IN & south to FL & AL). Introduced to the Jardin des Plants in Paris in 1644.
N   

Crossvine

Bignonia capriolata
Perennial Vine [6, 7]
Native VA to IL to FL/LA, first taken to Europe @1700
N   X

Cypress Vine, Star Glory

Ipomoea quamoclit
Annual [8, 9]
1791: T. Jefferson; 1802: M’Mahon
Tropical South America. Introduced in 1629. Prolific self sower - could become invasive.
X

Dalmation Iris

Iris pallida ‘Dalmatica’
Perennial Rhizome [4, 5]
1793: J. Skipwith; 1819: Bloodgood (NY)
Turkey. 1596 Hatfield House/Cranborne Garden Centre.
E  

Damask Rose ‘Autumn Damask’

Rosa x damascena ‘Autumn Damask’
Shrub [5, 6]
1740: Collinson sent to Custis; 1791: T. Jefferson
Carried to Europe from Damascus, Syria, by crusaders. Evidence suggests it was brought to our west coast by Spanish missionaries.

Damask Rose ‘York and Lancaster’

Rosa damascena variegata ‘York and Lancaster’
Shrub [5, 6]
1742: Collinson sent to Custis
ca. 1551 England. Used as a symbol of the end of the War of Roses and unification of the Houses of York and Lancaster.

Dame’s Rocket, Dame’s Violet

Hesperis matronalis
Biennial [5, 6]
1735: Collinson sent to Custis; 1762: Bartram; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: Spurrier
Europe (Italy), Western & Central Asia. Introduced by 1572.
X

Double Snowdrop

Galanthus nivalis ‘Flore Pleno’
Perennial Bulb [3, 4]
1737: Brickell; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon; 1808: T. Jefferson
Central/Southern/Eastern Europe. Has a double flower. Does not perform well in the garden.
X

Downy Phlox

Phlox pilosa
Perennial [4, 5]
Native (CT to ND and south to TX & FL), lavender blooms, grows wild in Chowan County
N   E   X

Dutch Crocus ‘Pickwick’, ‘Mammoth Yellow’

Crocus vernus ‘Pickwick’, ‘Mammoth Yellow’
Perennial Corm [1, 2, 3]
1684: W. Byrd (VA); 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith; 1802: M’Mahon
Eastern & Central Europe. ‘Pickwick’ is white striped lilac flower. Rabbits are fond of this.

Dwarf Palmetto

Sabal minor
Shrub-size Tree [6]
1736: Wm Byrd II
Southeastern US. A “volunteer” in the garden.
N   

Dwarf Yaupon Holly

Ilex vomitoria ‘Nana’
Shrub [5]
1709: J. Lawson
N. American native (Southeastern US)
N   X

E

Back to Top

Eastern Bluestar

Amsonia tabernaemontana
Perennial [4, 5]
1793: J. Skipwith
N.E. and Central United States.
N

Eastern Purple Coneflower

Echinacea purpurea
Perennial Herb [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
1783: Bartram
Native of USA (from MI to LA)
 N 

Eastern Redbud, Judas Tree

Cercis canadensis
Tree [4]
1709: J. Lawson 1735: J. Custis; 1771: T. Jefferson
N. American native, Canada to Florida and west to Texas and Mexico. Cultivated in 1641.
N

Eastern Smooth Beardtongue

Penstemon laevigatus
Perennial [5, 6]
Eastern and Southeastern US. Will naturalize.
N   X

Eastern Sweetshrub, Carolina Allspice

Calycanthus floridus
Shrub [4, 5, 6, 7, 8]
1760 & 1778: T. Jefferson; 1783: Bartram; 1785: Mt. Vernon; 1790s: Faris; 1793: J. Skipwith
N. American native, Southeastern US. In 1726 M. Catesby sent them to England.
N   P

Ebony Spleenwort Fern

Asplenium platyneuron
Perennial [N/A]
1736: Wm Byrd II
Eastern N. America to Rocky Mtns
N

Egyptian Walking Onion, Tree Onion

Allium cepa proliferum
Annual Vegetable [7, 8]
1759: Bethabara; 1809: T. Jefferson
Temperate Northern Hemisphere. Sacred to and not eaten by the Egyptians. Small bulbs form at top of stalk.

Elatior Hybrid Primrose

Primula x polyantha
Perennial [4, 5]
1812: T. Jefferson
England. Introduced in 1693. This is the most often cultivated type of primrose, but it may be a bit age-wise late for our garden. Wide range of colors.
X

Elephant Garlic, Broadleaf Wild Leek

Allium ampeloprasum
Perennial Bulb [5, 6]
Central Asia. Listed by Linnaeus (1707-1778).

English Box

Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’
Shrub [N/A]
1736: Collinson sent to Custis; 1737: SC Gazette; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Europe, Africa, Asia.
P

English Daisy, Lawn Daisy

Bellis perennis
Perennial [2, 3, 4, 5, 6]
1629; 1761: Bethabara; 1771: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Europe. NC State Univ. describes it as a perennial grown as a tender biennial.

English Ivy

Hedera helix
Perennial [N/A]
1748: P. Kalm; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Western Europe. Removal begun in 2004, invasive.
P   X

English Lavender ‘Munstead’

Lavandula angustifolia ‘Munstead’
Perennial Herb [6, 7, 8]
1761: Bethabara; 1736: Wm. Byrd II
Western Mediterranean basin. 1649 Culpeper. Philip Miller (1691-1771) Chelsea Physick Garden. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
P   X

English Primrose, Cowslip

Primula vulgaris
Perennial [4, 5]
1771: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith
Europe, Asia Minor, North Africa. Long cultivated. 1722 Joseph Miller. Use yellow color only.
E

Europe Sage, Clary Sage

Salvia sclarea
Biennial Herb [5, 6]
1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1670: J. Josselyn; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
S. Europe & Syria.
P   X

Eustis Lake Beardtongue

Penstemon australis
Perennial [3, 4, 5, 6]
Eastern and Southeastern US. Will naturalize.
N   X

Evergreen Candytuft

Iberis sempervirens
Perennial [3, 4]
1760: Townley (Boston); 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith
Southern Europe. P   X

Everlasting Peavine, Perennial Sweet Pea

Lathyrus latifolius
Perennial Vine [5]
1760: Townley (Boston); 1771: T. Jefferson; 1793: J. Skipwith
Chile
X

F

Back to Top

Fall Phlox, Perennial Phlox

Phlox paniculata
Perennial [7, 8, 9]
1765: Bartram; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith
N. American native (NY to IA & south to GA & AL).
N   E   P   

False Indigo, Blue Wild Indigo

Baptisia australis
Perennial [5, 6]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1783: Bartram
N. American native.
N   

Farkleberry, Sparkleberry

Vaccinium arboreum
Shrub [5]
VA to FL west to KS south to TX.
N   X

Feathered Pinks, Cottage Pinks, Grass Pinks

Dianthus plumarius
Perennial [4, 5, 6]
1760: Townley (Boston); 1767: T. Jefferson
Southeastern Europe. Introduced in 1629.
X

Feverfew

Tanacetum parthenium, Syn. Chrysanthemum parthenium
Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7, 8, 9]
1672: Josselyn; 1709: J. Lawson
Temperate northern hemisphere. Long cultivated. A short-lived perennial herb.
N   P 

Flame Azalea

Rhododendron calendulaceum
Shrub [4]
1832: Kenrick (Boston)
N. American native (WV to GA). Cultivated since 1800.
N   P   X

Florida Azalea, Orange Azalea

Rhododendron austrinum
Shrub [4]
N. American native (AL to FL).
N   P  

Florist’s Daisy ‘Sheffield’

Dendranthema x grandiflorum ‘Sheffield’
Perennial [9, 10]
China (Dendranthema cultivars were brought from China to Europe in late 18th century). A pink chrysanthemum-like flower.
E

Flowering Dogwood

Cornus florida
Tree [4]
1709: J. Lawson; 1712: Virginia; 1735: J. Custis; 1771: T. Jefferson
N. American native, Eastern USA. Cultivated in 1731.
N   P   

Flowering Tobacco, Jasmine Tobacco

Nicotiana alata, Syn. N. affinis
Annual [7, 8, 9]
1780s: Mt. Vernon
Brazil
X

Four O’Clock, Marvel of Peru

Mirabilis jalapa
Perennial [7, 8, 9, 10]
1767: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon
South America. Can be invasive
E  

Foxglove

Digitalis purpurea
Biennial [5, 6, 7]
1737: Collinson sent to Custis; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon
Spain and Portugal. Introduced to Britain by 1600 and now naturalized.

French Lavender, Spanish Lavender

Lavandula stoechas
Perennial Herb [5, 6]
1735: Collinson sent to Custis
Southern Europe, N. Africa. Cultivated since ancient times. 1548 Wm. Turner. 1597 Gerard. Called French Lavender in Europe and called Spanish Lavender in the USA.
X

French Marigold

Tagetes patula
Annual [7, 8, 9, 10]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: Spurrier; 1793: J. Skipwith
Mexico

French Rose ‘Charles de Mills’

Rosa gallica ‘Charles de Mills’
Shrub [5, 6]
Before 1780
Brought to France from Damascus by crusaders.

Fringe Tree

Chionanthus virginicus
Tree [5, 6]
1735: J. Custis
Southeastern USA
N 

Fringed Tulip ‘Swan Wings’

Tulipa ‘Swan Wings’
Annual Bulb [3, 4]
1959
Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia. Fringed, pure white with “lace” on petal edges, 16-22”, mid season
X

Frost Aster, White Oldfield Aster

Aster pilosus var. pilosus
Perennial [9, 10]
1793: J. Skipwith
N. America (ME to FL and west to MO). White flower.
N   X

G

Back to Top

Garden Chervil

Anthriscus cerefolium Annual Herb [5, 6, 7] 1759: Bethabara; 1786: Crowells Europe & Western Asia. P   X

Garden Heliotrope

Heliotropium arborescens
Annual [4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1786: T. Jefferson
Peruvian Andes
X

Garden Hyacinth, Blue Roman Hyacinth

Hyacinthus orientalis
Perennial Bulb [2, 3, 4]
1766: T. Jefferson; 1793: J. Skipwith; 1799: G. French
Asia Minor and Central Asia. 1596 Hatfield House/Cranborne Garden Centre.
E

Garden Leek

Allium porrum
Vegetable [4]
1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1790s: Faris
Portugal & N. Africa to Turkey, Iran & Tajikistan. Originated from wild species Allium ampeloprasum.
X

Garden Lovage

Levisticum officinale
Perennial Herb [7, 8]
1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1760: Mt. Vernon; 1761: Bethabara
Southern Europe. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
P   X

Garden Nasturtium

Tropaeolum majus
Annual [6, 7, 8]
1759: Bethabara; 1774: T. Jefferson
South America (Peru)
X

Garden Plum ‘Ozark Premier’ or ‘Premier’

Prunus domestica ssp. domestica ‘Ozark Premier’ or ‘Premier’
Tree [3]
1629: MA - Pilgrims; 1771: Prince, T. Jefferson
Europe, Northern Asia
X

Garden Sorrel

Rumex acetosa
Perennial Herb [5]
1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1761: Bethabara; 1774: T. Jefferson
Europe, Asia. Naturalized from Canada to Pennsylvania.
P   

Garden Thyme ‘Narrow Leaf French’, ‘Wedgewood English’

Thymus vulgaris ‘Narrow Leaf French’, ‘Wedgewood English’
Perennial Herb [4, 5]
1709: J. Lawson; 1759: Bethabara; 1760: Mt. Vernon; 1794: T. Jefferson
Southern Europe. 1722 Joseph Miller.
P   

Gardenia, Cape Jasmine

Gardenia jasminoides
Shrub [3, 4, 5]
1762: Dr. Garden, Charleston, SC; 1807: Bartram
China. Named for Dr. Alexander Garden of Charleston, SC who was a friend of Linnaeus.
X

Garlic Chives

Allium tuberosum
Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
India, China. Described/recorded by J. P. Rottler (1749-1836) and George Don (1764-1814). Don called it A. uliginosum. Favretti gives dates as being suitable for 1776-1850 gardens.
X

Gas Plant, Burning Bush, Dittany

Dictamnus albus
Perennial [5, 6, 7]
1736: Wm Byrd II; 1742: Collinson sent to Custis; 1761: Bethabara
Mediterranean and temperate Asia. 1793 J. Skipwith. 1807 T. Jefferson.
X

German Chamomile

Matricaria recutita
Annual Herb [6, 7, 8, 9]
1761: Bethabara
Temperate Northern Hemisphere. ? too hot for coastal plain
N   P   X

German Iris ‘Kochii’

Iris germanica ‘Kochii’
Perennial Rhizome [3, 4]
Fragrant red-purple native of northern Italy (Lake Como area). Ogden: “another old pseudospecies inherited from the gardens of antiquity”. They are remontant and known to rebloom in the fall and into winter.
E   

German Iris ‘Purple King’/’Nepalensis’

Iris germanica ‘Purple King’/’Nepalensis’
Perennial Rhizome [4]
1672: Josselyn; 1771: T. Jefferson
Northern Europe. During the 1800’s collectors discovered the same variety in the gardens of Kathmandu and introduced it as ‘Nepalensis’
E

German Winter Thyme

Thymus vulgaris ‘German Winter’
Perennial Herb [6, 7]
1794: T. Jefferson
Southern Europe & Asia. 1649 Culpeper.
X

Giant Spider Flower, Pink Queen

Cleome hassleriana, Syn. C. spinosa, C. hasslerana
Annual [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
1780s: Mt. Vernon
Subtropical & tropical zones all over the world
X

Giant Sunflower

Helianthus giganteus
Perennial [9]
Eastern USA
N 

Globe Amaranth, Bachelor’s Buttons

Gomphrena globosa
Annual [6, 7, 8, 9]
1734: Collinson sent to Custis; 1760: Townley (Boston); 1767: T. Jefferson
Tropical Asia

Golden Alexander

Zizia aurea
Perennial [5, 6]
Mid to Eastern Canada and Mid to Eastern US.
N

Golden Ragwort

Packera aurea
Perennial [3, 4]
MD to MO and south to FL & AR. Cultivated in England in 1759.
N 

Goldenrod

Solidago sp.
Perennial [9, 10]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1799: Ads in 6 southern nursery lists; 1802: M’Mahon
N. American native
N 

Grass Leaf Daylily

Hemerocallis minor
Perennial Tuber [5, 6, 7]
1822: Prince Nursery
Temperate East Asia. Introduced to Britain in 1759. Parent plant of the hybrid ‘Stella d’Oro’.
P   

Greek Yarrow

Achillea taygetea
Perennial [5, 6]
1780s: Mt. Vernon
Europe and temperate Asia. ‘Taygetea’ thought to be a garden hybrid whose parents are possibly A. millefolium and A. clypeolata. Yellow flower.
X

Green Santolina (Lavender Cotton), Holy Flax

Santolina virens
Perennial Herb [6]
T. Jefferson (undated manuscript)
Spain, Portugal, S. France. Philip Miller (1691-1771) Chelsea Physick Garden.
P   

Grey Santolina (Lavender Cotton)

Santolina chamaecyparissus
Perennial Herb [6]
Mediterranean. 1649 Culpeper. Favretti states suitable for 1600-1776 garden.
P   X

Halberdleaf Rose Mallow

Hibiscus laevis, Syn. H. militaris
Perennial [6, 7, 8]
1783: Bartram
Coastal wetlands in NC to TX and up the Mississippi River to AR
N   X

Heliopsis Sunflower, Oxeye

Heliopsis helianthoides
Perennial [6, 7, 8, 9]
N. American native
N 

Hollyhock

Alcea rosea, Syn. Althaea rosea
Biennial [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
1631: J.Winthrop,Jr; 1735: Collinson sent to Custis; 1767: T. Jefferson; 1793: J. Skipwith
Eastern Mediterranean. Winthrop was founder and governor of Connecticut arriving in the colonies in 1631.
E   X

Honesty, Money Plant

Lunaria annua
Biennial [4, 5]
1672: Josselyn; 1767: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Southern Europe, Mediterranean. Cultivated in Britain in 1596.
E 

Hoop-Petticoat Daffodil

Narcissus bulbocodium
Perennial Bulb [3, 4]
1806: M’Mahon
Europe (Portugal). Introduced to Britain in 1629. Early, short, yellow flower with funnel-like cups and tiny ribboned petals. Mid season blooming. 13Y-Y

Horehound

Marrubium vulgare
Perennial Herb [6, 7]
1802: M’Mahon
Europe, Northern Asia. 1649 Culpeper. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
P  

Horseradish

Armoracia rusticana
Perennial Herb [8]
1759: Bethabara; 1794: T. Jefferson
Eastern Europe. 1722 Joseph Miller.

Hyacinth Bean

Lablab purpureus, Syn. Dolichos lablab
Annual [6, 7, 8, 9]
1804: M’Mahon
Introduced in 1790 from SE Asia or Africa
X

Hyssop

Hyssopus officinalis
Perennial Herb [5, 6]
1709: J. Lawson; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1760: Mt. Vernon; 1761: Bethabara; 1794: T. Jefferson
Southern Europe, Western Asia. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
P 

Jerusalem Sage

Phlomis fruticosa Perennial [7, 8] 1736: Collinson sent to Custis Mediterranean

Johnny Jump Up

Viola tricolor Perennial [3, 4] 1718: Lawson; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1767: T. Jefferson; 1793: J. Skipwith Europe, Temperate Asia X

Jonquil, Sweeties, N. Simplex

Narcissus jonquilla Perennial Bulb [3, 4] 1766: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon Southern Europe, N. Africa (Algeria). Introduced to Britain in 1596. Clusters of nickel-sized yellow flowers, rush-like green leaves. Early blooming. 13Y-Y P   

Joseph’s Coat

Amaranthus tricolor Annual [7, 8, 9] 1786: T. Jefferson South Central Mexico X

Jupiter’s Beard, Red Valerian

Centranthus ruber Perennial [6, 7] 1802: M’Mahon Mediterranean region. England 16th Century. Can become invasive from selfsowing. X

Kiss Me Over the Garden Gate, Prince’s Feather

Polygonum orientale Annual [6, 7, 8] 1737: J. Custis China to the Himalayas X  

Kitchen sage

Salvia officinalis Perennial Herb [6, 7] 1761: Bethabara; 1794: T. Jefferson Mediterranean. 1649 Culpeper. 1722 Joseph Miller. P   X

Lady Tulip, Peppermint Tulip

Tulipa clusiana ‘Lady Jane’ Perennial Bulb [3, 4] Asia Minor (Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan). Species, rose-red edged with white, 10-14”, mid spring. 1607, introduced to Britain in 1636.

Lance Coreopsis, Lanceleaf Tickseed

Coreopsis lanceolata Perennial [5, 6, 7] 1804: M’Mahon N. American native (VA to WI and south to GA & TN). N   P   

Lantana

Lantana camara Shrub [6, 7, 8, 9] 1793: J. Skipwith; 1806: M’Mahon Caribbean territories. We should use orange/red/yellow color for accuracy. X

Larkspur

Consolida ajacis Annual [5, 6] 1760: Townley (Boston); 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon Mediterranean, West & Central Asia. 1722 Joseph Miller. P   

Laurel, Culinary Bay

Laurus nobilis Tree [6] 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1736 Collinson sent to Custis; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1811: Landreth Southern Mediterranean. “The true laurel of antiquity whose branches in garland symbolized victory or accomplishment” - Hortus. 1746 Tho. Short. 1649 Culpeper.

Lavender ‘Provence’

Lavandula x intermedia ‘Provence’ Perennial Herb [5, 6] 1761: Bethabara Southern Europe, Mediterranean, North Africa. A natural hybrid of L. angustifolia & L. latifolia. French used them for oil in early 1820’s.

Lemon Balm, Common Balm

Melissa officinalis Perennial Herb [6, 7] 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1760: Mt. Vernon; 1761: Bethabara; 1794: T. Jefferson Mediterranean. 1573 Hatfield House/Cranborne Garden Centre. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short. P   

Lemon Lily, Yellow Daylily

Hemerocallis lilioasphodelus, Syn. H. flava Perennial Tuber [5, 6, 7] 1793: Spurrier; 1793: J. Skipwith Temperate East Asia. Introduced in 1570. These have not survived well here in The Homestead garden, possibly too warm (Zone 7b) Old House Gardens says best in cool climate. E   X

Lemon Thyme & Lime Thyme

Thymus x citriodorus Perennial Herb [4, 5] 1802: M’Mahon Southern Europe. This is a cross between T. vulgaris and T. pulegioides. J. C. D. vonSchrerber (1739-1810). P   X

Lemon Verbena, Lemon Beebrush

Aloysia triphylla Perennial Herb [7, 8] South America. Introduced to England in 1784. C. L. L’Heritier (1746-1800). P   X

Lettuce

Lactuca sativa Annual Vegetable [N/A] 1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1709: J. Lawson; 1759: Bethabara Temperate Eurasia.

Lily-of-the-Valley

Convallaria majalis Perennial Rhizome [4] 1672: Josselyn; 1738: Collinson sent to Custis; 1771: T. Jefferson France to Siberia and colder parts of N. America. Introduced 1568. 1746 Tho. Short.

Lima Bean

Phaseolus lunatus Vegetable [5, 6] T. Jefferson; 1777 Mesoamerica in Pre-Columbian cultural areas

Loquat

Eriobotrya japonica Tree [11] Introduced in 1784; 1793: Simpson (Virginia); 1824 Landreth China, Japan.

Love Lies Bleeding, Prince’s Feather

Amaranthus caudatus Annual [10, 11, 12] 1709: J. Lawson; 1760: Townley (Boston); 1767: T. Jefferson American/African/Asian tropics (East Indies). Introduced to England in 1596. Plant in July to avoid cucumber beetle predation. X

Love-in-a-Mist, Devil-in-the-Bush

Nigella damascena Annual [6] 1802: M’Mahon Mediterranean & Western Asia. Annual but self sows.

Lyreleaf Sage

Salvia lyrata Perennial Herb [3, 4, 5, 6] Native to Eastern US (NY to FL to TX) N   

Madagascar periwinkle

Catharanthus roseus Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7, 8, 9] Madagascar. Philip Miller (1691-1771) Chelsea Physick Garden. 1759 Linnaeus. X

Madonna Lily, Common White Lily

Lilium candidum, Syn. L. album Perennial Bulb [7] Pilgrims - Plymouth, MA; 1654: Wm. Bradford; 1761: Bethabara; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1782: T. Jefferson Southern Europe to Southwest Asia. P   X

Maltese Cross

Lychnis chalcedonica Perennial [6, 7] 1804: M’Mahon; 1807: T. Jefferson Central and Eastern Russia to NW China X

Mangold, Chard

Beta vulgaris ssp. cicla Annual vegetable [N/A] 1759 Bethabara Mediterranean, Sicily. A member of the beet family. X

Marguerite

Argyranthemum frutescens Perennial [6] Canary Islands. Linnaeus (1707-1778), has distinctive feathery foliage.

X

Mock Orange

Philadelphus coronarius Shrub [4, 5] 1771: Prince Nursery, NY Turkey. Intro. in Europe in 1562. X

Native Violet

Viola sp. Perennial [3, 4] Eastern Canada and south throughout eastern US N   

New England Aster

Symphyotrichum novae-angliae Perennial [9, 10] 1737: J. Bartram; 1780s: Mt. Vernon N. American native (New England). Flower is dark blue/purple. N   

New York Aster, Michaelmas Daisy

Symphyotrichum novi-belgii Perennial [9, 10] 1804: M’Mahon N. American native. So named because they bloom around the time of St. Michael’s day (Sept. 29th). Flower is light blue. N  

Noisette Rose ‘Champney’s Pink Cluster’

Rosa noisette ‘Champney’s Pink Cluster’ Shrub [4, 5, 6] 1802 Charleston, SC. John Champney created this 1st American hybrid rose.

Oakleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea quercifolia Shrub [5, 6, 7] 1776: W. Bartram; 1780s: Mt. Vernon Southeastern USA (GA to FL). Introduced in 1803. N   P   

Obedient Plant

Physostegia virginiana ssp. virginiana Perennial [8, 9, 10] 1804: M’Mahon Eastern & Central North America. N   E   

Oleander

Nerium oleander Shrub [6, 7] 1760: Christopher Witt (PA); 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1790: Prince; 1793: J. Skipwith Southern Europe, Mediterranean.

Orange Coneflower

Rudbeckia fulgida Perennial [6, 7] 1806: M’Mahon N. American native (NJ west to IL) N 

Orange Phoenix, Eggs and Bacon, Nonesuch Daffodil

Narcissus x incomparabilis, AKA N. incomparabilis albus aurantius plenus Perennial Bulb [3] Introduced to Britain in 1731. Flowers double, yellow and orange. 4W-O, Early blooming. Rescued with permission from old Chowan County homestead. E 

Oregano

Origanum vulgare Perennial Herb [6, 7, 8, 9] 1672: Josselyn; 1760: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon Mediterranean & Temperate Asia. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.

P

Oxlip

Primula elatior Perennial [4, 5] 1806: M’Mahon England. Introduced in 1764. 10” tall, dark-eyed yellow flowers.

X

Orris Root

Iris germanica var. florentina Perennial Rhizome [4, 5] 1672: Josselyn; 1737: Brickell; 1793: J. Skipwith Italy. Flower nearly white with traces of blue or purple. Ogden: “Remontant in favorable years”. 1746 Tho. Short. P

Pale Beardtongue

Penstemon pallidus Perennial [5, 6] Eastern and Southeastern US. Will naturalize.

N   X

Peachleaf Bellflower

Campanula persicifolia Perennial [5, 6, 7] 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon Eurasia. Introduced to Britain in 1596.

X

Parsley

Petroselinum crispum Biennial Herb [6] 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1759: Bethabara; 1774: T. Jefferson Southern Europe. 1649 Culpeper. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.

Pear ‘Seckel’

Pyrus communis ‘Seckel’ Tree [3] 1790: Wm. Faris; 1807: T. Jefferson Central & Eastern Europe and SW Asia

Pear ‘Kieffer’

Pyrus communis x pyrifolia ‘Keiffer’ Tree [4] Mid 19th C Cross by Peter Kieffer of Chinese Sand pear with Bartlett pear. Kieffer came to America in 1834 so it was after that time and before his death in 1891. It was the first hybridized oriental pear tree. It is just outside the garden where we use it for pollination of the Seckel pear in the garden.

Pennyroyal, Peppermint

Mentha pulegium Perennial Herb [8] 1672: Josselyn; 1760: Mt. Vernon Europe.

P   X

Persian Buttercup

Ranunculus asiaticus Perennial Corm [5, 6] 1741: Collinson sent to Custis; 1786: VA Journal ad; 1807: T. Jefferson Persia. In 17th C it was used as a “florist’s flower” being potted up instead of as a cut flower.

X

Peppermint

Mentha x piperita Perennial Herb [7] 1802: M’Mahon Europe, Asia, Africa. 1649 Culpeper, Linnaeus. 1722 Joseph Miller. A natural hybrid between watermint (Mentha aquatica) & spearmint (Mentha spicata).

P

Persimmon

Diospyros virginiana Tree [5, 6] Only female trees bear fruit.

N   X

Peruvian Zinnia

Zinnia peruviana Annual [6, 7, 8, 9, 10] 1806: M’Mahon Peru. 1753 Linnaeus. Introduced in 1770. 3-4’ tall, mixed yellow and orange pastel flowers.

Petite Pink Scotch Rose

Rosa x ‘Petite Pink Scotch’ Shrub [5, 6] Ca. 1750 Scotland. Rose was “found” in 1949 by Jackson M. Batchelor growing in the garden of a 1750’s plantation near Wilmington, NC. This area was originally settled by Scottish & English immigrants and it is felt it came with them. This rose shows no relationship to the R. spinosissima or R. pimpinellifolia.

Pineapple sage

Salvia elegans Perennial Herb [9, 10] Mexico & Guatemala. N. H. Vahl (1749-1804).

X

Pink Gaura, Lindheimer’s Beeblossom

Oenothera lindheimeri Syn. Gaura lindheimeri Perennial [7, 8, 9, 10] TX & LA

N

Plum ‘Green Gage’

Prunus domestica ‘Green Gage’ Tree [3, 4] 1755: Wm. Smith, Williamsburg, VA; 1783: T. Jefferson Developed in France from a green-fruited wild plum originally found in Asia Minor.

P

Plum ‘Stanley’

Prunus domestica ‘Stanley’ Tree [3, 4] European prune-type plum thought to be an ancient hybrid.

Poet’s Narcissus

Narcissus poeticus ‘Actaea’ Perennial Bulb [4] Early 1800s: Middleton (SC); 1806: M’Mahon Southern Europe (Spain to Greece). White petals with tiny yellow eye edged in red. Late blooming. 9W-YYR

Pomegranate

Punica granatum Tree [5, 6] 1736: Wm Byrd II; Early 1760s: MA - Pilgrims; 1769: T. Jefferson; 1792: Bartram Mediterranean & S. Asia. Cultivated since time immemorial.

P

Pot Marigold, Calendula

Calendula officinalis Annual Herb [5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10] 1631: J.Winthrop,Jr; 1767: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon France, Italy. 1746 Tho. Short. Dies out in the summer.

X

Purple Passion Flower, Maypop

Passiflora incarnata Perennial Vine [7, 8] 1737: J. Custis Native MD to FL to TX. Edible fruit.

N   X

Queen of the Meadow, Meadowsweet

Filipendula ulmaria
Perennial [5]
1806: M’Mahon
Europe, Western Asia. Long cultivated. 1649 Culpeper.

Quince

Cydonia oblonga
Tree [6]
1736: Wm. Byrd II; 1759: Bethabara; 1769: T. Jefferson
Persia and Anatolia. Prized for its edible fruit unlike the Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles speciosa).
X

Radish

Raphanus sativus
Annual Vegetable [N/A]
1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1802: M’Mahon; 1809: T. Jefferson
China
X

Ragged Robin

Lychnis flos-cuculi
Perennial [4, 5, 6]
1761: Mt. Vernon
Europe

Rain Lily

Zephyranthes atamasca
Perennial Bulb [5]
1793: J. Skipwith
Southeastern US. Indian name is “cullowhee”. Introduced to Britain in 1629.
N  

Red Leaf Orach

Atriplex hortensis
Annual Herb [7, 8, 9]
1790s: Faris; 1802 M’Mahon; 1813: T. Jefferson
Asia. Naturalized to Europe and N. America.
P   X

Red Spider Lily

Lycoris radiata
Perennial Bulb [9]
ca. 1870s: See Comments
China & Japan. 1758 Hatfield House/Cranborne GardenCentre. C.L. L’Hertier (1746-1800). Rear Admiral James Gilchrist Green who married a local girl from Edenton brought the bulbs from Japan ca. 1870’s. The bulbs became popular passalong plants which no self-respecting southern garden should be without, and so they have been passed along to the Cupola house garden despite their later date.
E   

Roman Chamomile

Chamaemelum nobile
Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7, 8, 9]
1736: Wm Byrd II; 1761: Bethabara; 1794: T. Jefferson
Europe, North Africa, Azores. 1649 Culpeper. 1746 Tho. Short. Does not grow well here, too hot.
X

‘Rosa Mundi’ Rose

Rosa gallica versicolor
Shrub [6]
1740: Collinson sent to Custis; 1791: T. Jefferson
Middle East. Returning Crusaders introduced to England. Introduced in the 16th C. or before. Crimson & pale pink stripes, few thorns, 4’x4’, good for hedge or mixed border.

Rose Campion

Lychnis coronaria
Perennial [5, 6, 7]
1767: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Temperate North America. Classified as a short-lived perennial, it is also considered a biennial or annual according to some sources. 1746 Tho. Short.
N   E

Rosemary

Rosmarinus officinalis
Perennial Herb [2, 3, 4]
1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1709: J. Lawson; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1794: T. Jefferson
Southern Europe, Asia Minor. Cultivated for centuries. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
P   

Ruellia, Carolina Wild Petunia

Ruellia caroliniensis
Perennial [6, 7]
East coast native through to Florida
N 

Saffron Crocus

Crocus sativa
Perennial Corm [10, 11]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1790s: Faris; 1802: M’Mahon; 1807: T. Jefferson
Europe, N. Africa, and temperate Asia. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.

Salad Burnet

Sanguisorba minor, Syn. Poterium sanguisorba
Perennial Herb [5, 6]
1620s: Pilgrims; 1736: Wm Byrd II
Europe. 1722 Joseph Miller.
P   X

Salsify, Goatsbeard

Tragopogon porrifolius
Biennial Flower [4, 5]
1761: Bethabara; 1774: T. Jefferson
Europe (Mediterranean)

Scarlet Rose Mallow, Scarlet Hibiscus

Hibiscus coccineus
Perennial [6, 7, 8]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1792 Bartram; 1793: J. Skipwith
Southeastern United States
N   

Scarlet Runner Bean

Phaseolus coccineus
Annual [6, 7, 8, 9]
1791: T. Jefferson. 1806: M’Mahon
Mexico
X

Seashore Mallow

Kosteletzkya virginica
Perennial [8, 9]
1753 Linnaeus
N 

Serviceberry, Shadbush

Amelanchier arborea var. arborea
Tree [6]
1804: T. Jefferson
Native to eastern Canada and the US (ME to FL to TX). Jefferson lists as A. canadensis.
N   X

Sesame

Sesamum orientale, Syn. S. indicum
Annual Herb [8, 9]
1808: T. Jefferson
Central America (El Salvador). Linneaus (1707-1778).
X

Siberian Iris

Iris sibirica
Perennial Rhizome [5]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; Early 1800s: Middleton (SC); 1806: M’Mahon
Temperate Eurasia (France to Lake Baikal). Introduced in 1596.
P   

Silky Camellia

Stewartia malacodendron
Shrub [5]
Eastern N. America, grows in Chowan County. Linnaeus (1707-1778).
N   X

Small’s Beardtongue

Penstemon smallii
Perennial [5, 6]
Eastern TN, NC, SC.
N   X

Smilax, Lanceleaf Greenbrier

Smilax, Lanceleaf Greenbrier
Smilax smallii
Vine [N/A]
1731: M. Catesby; 1736: Wm Byrd II
N. American native (Eastern USA)
N  

Snapdragon

Antirrhinum majus
Annual [5, 6]
1771: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Mediterranean

Snowdrop

Galanthus nivalis
Perennial Bulb [2, 3]
1737: Brickell; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon; 1808: T. Jefferson
Central/Southern/Eastern Europe. Does not perform well in the garden.
X

Soapwort, Bouncing Bet

Saponaria officinalis
Perennial Herb [6]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; ca. 1800: T. Jefferson
Europe

Solomon’s Seal

Polygonatum biflorum
Perennial [5]
1672: Josselyn; 1793: J. Skipwith
Southern Canada & Eastern USA
N 

Sour Cherry ‘Montmorency’

Prunus cerasus ‘Montmorency’
Tree [4]
France (Montmorency Valley), developed sometime before the 17th century. Did not thrive here.
X

Southern Blue Monkshood

Aconitum uncinatum
Perennial Herb [7, 8, 9]
1793: J. Skipwith
Extremely toxic, does not divide or transplant well, avoid sap on hands
N   X

Southern Crabapple

Malus angustifolia
Tree [4]
1784: St. G. Tucker
VA to FL and MS. Cultivated in Britain in 1725.
N 

Southern Maidenhair Fern, Common Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum capillus-veneris
Perennial [N/A]
1736: Wm Byrd II
Quebec to MN & south to GA & LA.
N   E

Southernwood

Artemisia abrotanum
Perennial Herb [9]
1761: Bethabara; 1794: T. Jefferson
Europe (Spain & Italy). Introduced to Britain in 1548. 1746 Tho. Short.
P   

Sowbread Cyclamen

Cyclamen hederifolium, AKA C. neapolitanum
Perennial [8, 9, 10]
1739-40: Collinson sent to Custis
Southeastern France thru Turkey

Spanish Bluebell, Hispanic Hyacinthoides

Hyacinthoides hispanica
Perennial Bulb [3, 4]
1800: H. Middleton
Spain 1601. 1722 Joseph Miller. Philip Miller of Chelsea Physick Garden (1691-1771). Hatfield House/Cranborne Garden Centre gives 1683 date (Scilla hispanica)

Spanish Broom

Spartium junceum
Shrub [7, 8, 9]
1738: Collinson sent to Custis
Mediterranean
X

Spearmint

Mentha spicata
Perennial Herb [7]
1761: Bethabara
Europe, Asia, Africa. 1649 Culpeper. 1722 Joseph Miller.
P   

Spike Speedwell

Veronica spicata
Perennial Herb [5, 6]
1800: H. Middleton
Europe, Asia. Linnaeus (1707-1778).
P   X

Spotted Beebalm, Horsemint

Monarda punctata
Perennial herb [10]
Mid to Eastern Canada and Mid to Eastern US. Favretti states suitable for 1776-1850 garden.
N 

Spuria Iris, Seashore Iris, Salt Marsh Iris

Iris spuria, Syn. Iris orientalis
Perennial Rhizome [5]
S. Europe to Afghanistan. 1753 Linnaeus. Introduced to Britain in 1759. 1850-1900 Favretti. Previously known as I. ochroleuca, beardless.
E   X

St. Johnswort

Hypericum perforatum
Perennial Herb [6]
1736: Wm Byrd II; Early 1800s: Middleton (SC)
Asia Minor. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1739 Hatfield House/Cranborne Garden Centre. 1746 Tho. Short.

Star Boltonia, White Doll’s Daisy

Boltonia asteroides
Perennial [8, 9]
Eastern & Central USA
N   X

Star of Bethlehem

Ornithogalum umbellatum
Perennial Bulb [4]
1793: J. Skipwith; 1802: M’Mahon
Mediterranean. In process of removing, invasive.
X

Sternbergia, Lily-of-the-Field

Sternbergia lutea
Perennial Bulb [9]
1793 J. Skipwith
W. Mediterranean to Central Asia, grown in England 1596, like a yellow crocus. Sometimes called Autumn Daffodil.

Stock

Matthiola incana
Annual [4, 5, 6]
1771: T. Jefferson
Europe, Central and SW Asia, N. Africa

Stokes’ Aster

Stokesia laevis
Perennial [6, 7]
1780s: Mt. Vernon
N. American native (SC to LA). Introduced to England ca. 1766 by James Gordon.
N 

Strawberry Tree

Arbutus unedo
Tree [10, 11, 12]
1737: Collinson sent to Custis
Mediterranean, W. Europe, France, Ireland. Fruit & Flower at same time!
X

Sulphur Phoenix, Codlings & Cream

Narcissus pseudonarcissus albus-plenus sulphureus
Perennial Bulb [3, 4]
Unknown country of origin. Pre-1820, 4 W-Y, registered with the RHS. Rescued with permission from Bennett’s Millpond and from an old Chowan County homestead. E.H.
E 

Summer Savory

Satureja hortensis
Annual Herb [6, 7]
1631: Winthrop, Jr.; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1802: M’Mahon; ca. 1820: T. Jefferson
Northern Hemisphere. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
N   P   X

Summer Snowflake

Leucojum aestivum
Bulb [2, 3, 4]
Great Britain to Iran. 1596 Hatfield House/Cranborne Garden Centre. Favretti says suitable for gardens 1776-1850.
E 

Swamp Bluebell, Swamp Leather Flower

Clematis crispa
Vine [5, 6]
Southern USA
N

Swamp Redbay

Persea palustris
Tree [6, 7]
N. American native (DE to FL). Introduced to England in 1739.
N 

Swamp Rose

Rosa palustris
Shrub [5, 6]
Eastern North America
N   X

Swan’s Neck, Silver Bells, Weeping March Flowers

Narcissus moschatus, AKA N. cernus
Perennial Bulb [3]
Spanish Pyrenees, sent to Clusius by Venerius in 1604, 1629 John Parkinson, 1633 Gerard, 1762 Linnaeus. Early blooming, white trumpet, corona hangs its head surrounded by a drooping perianth of twisted segments, 10-12”, 13W-W. Some bulbs rescued with permission from old Chowan County homestead.
E

Sweet Basil

Ocimum basilicum
Annual Herb [7, 8, 9]
1631: Winthrop, Jr.; 1709: J. Lawson; 1761: Bethabara
Old World Tropics (India). 1722 Joseph Miller.
P 

Sweet Cherry ‘Emperor Francis’

Prunus avium ‘Emperor Francis’
Tree [3, 4]
Europe and Western Asia. ‘Emperor Francis’ is the closest substitute to the old white heart cultivated in the 1700’s.
P   X

Sweet Cherry ‘Windsor’

Prunus avium ‘Windsor’
Tree [3, 4]
Europe and Western Asia. ‘Windsor’ is the closest substitute to the black heart cherry cultivated in the 1700’s.
P   X

Sweet Fennel

Foeniculum vulgare var. dulce
Perennial Herb [6, 7]
1736: Wm Byrd II; 1761: Bethabara
Mediterranean. 1649 Culpeper. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
P

Sweet Fine Basil

Ocimum compactus
Annual Herb [7, 8, 9]
1760: Mt. Vernonv Tropical Asia & Africa
X

Sweet Marjoram

Origanum majorana
Tender Perennial Herb [7, 8]
1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1759: Bethabara; 1794: T. Jefferson
Mediterranean (N. Africa or Portugal). 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
P   X

Sweet Pea

Lathyrus odoratus
Annual [5]
1760: Mt. Vernon; 1761: Bethabara; 1771: T. Jefferson; 1793: J. Skipwith
Italy. Introduced 1699.
X

Sweet Scabious, Pincushion Flower

Scabiosa atropurpurea
Annual [7, 8, 9]
1760 Townley, Boston; 1793 Skipwith
Mediterranean. Introduced into cultivation in 1621.
Load More loader

Talus Slope Penstemon, Foxglove Beardtongue

Penstemon digitalis
Perennial [5, 6]
Eastern and Southeastern US. Will naturalize.
N   X

Tansy

Tanacetum vulgare
Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7, 8, 9]
1709: J. Lawson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1794: T. Jefferson
Europe, Asia. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.

Tarragon

Artemisia dracunculus
Perennial Herb [8, 9]
1760: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon; 1806: T. Jefferson
Europe. 1722 Joseph Miller.
P

Tassel Flower

Emilia coccinea, Syn. Cacalia coccinea, Emilia javanica
Annual [7, 8, 9, 10]
1776-1850: T. Jefferson
Africa (Madagascar). Introduced to England in 1799.
X

Tawny Daylily

Hemerocallis fulva var. fulva
Perennial Tuber [5, 6]
1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith
Asia. Introduced to Europe in 1576.
P

Tea Camellia

Camellia sinensis
Shrub [9, 10, 11]
1735: Savannah Trustees’ Garden; 1760: Bethabara; 1786: Michaux, Charleston
China, Japan. Also 1807 Bartram’s catalogue.
X

Tenby Daffodil

Narcissus obvallaris
Perennial Bulb [3]
Tenby, Wales. Cultivated 1613. 1796? Golden large cups with petals of similar color up to 12” high. Very early blooming. 13Y-Y
X

‘Texas Star’

Narcissus x intermedius
Perennial Bulb [3, 4]
Cross between N. tazetta & N. jonquilla. Published in Flora Gallica in 1806. Mid-season, 13 Y-Y Bulbs rescued with permission from old Chowan County homestead.
E 

Tree Box

Buxus sempervirens ‘Arborescens’
Shrub [N/A]
1652: Long Island, Nathaniel Sylvester; 1807: Bartram; 1811: Landreth
Europe, Africa, Asia.
P   

Tree Box

Buxus sempervirens ‘Pyramidalis Hardwickensis’
Shrub [N/A]
Europe, Africa, Asia. Ours is grown from a cutting taken in Colonial Williamsburg.

Trumpet Creeper, Trumpet Vine

Campsis radicans
Vine [7, 8, 9, 10]
1731: M. Catesby; 1737: Brickell; 1771: T. Jefferson; 1783: Bartram
N. American native, Southeastern USA.
N   P   X

Tuberose

Polianthes tuberosa
Perennial Bulb [8, 9, 10]
1735: Collinson sent to Custis; 1792: M. Colllins; 1793: J. Skipwith
Mexico

Tulip ‘Ancilla’

Tulipa ‘Ancilla’
Annual Bulb [4]
Turkestan. 6-8” Kaufmanniana hybrid, exterior rose/soft pink, interior white with yellow center encircled by red ring, early
X

Tulip ‘Blue Heron’

Tulipa ‘Blue Heron’
Annual Bulb [4]
Turkey, Iran & Central Asia, 14-18’ tall, fringed, pale purple, late
X

Tulip ‘Blue Parrot’

Tulipa ‘Blue Parrot’
Annual Bulb [4]
1782: T. Jefferson
Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia. In existence since 1665. 14” - 18” tall, bright violet-blue, fringed, late.
X

Tulip ‘China Pink’

Tulipa ‘China Pink’
Annual Bulb [4, 5]
Turkey, Iran and Central Asia, 16-20” lily-flowered, medium pink with white heart, late
X

Tulip ‘Estelle Rijnveldt’

Tulipa ‘Estelle Rijnveldt’
Annual Bulb [5]
1954
Turkey, Iran & Central Asia, parrot, red flames on white, late, 18-20”
X

Tulip ‘Keizerskroon’

Tulipa ‘Keizerskroon’
Annual Bulb [3, 4]
1750: Mt. Vernon
Asia Minor. Introduced to Europe in the 16th century. Single early tulip, bright scarlet edged in vivid yellow. 12-14”
X

Tulip ‘Lilac Perfection’

Tulipa ‘Lilac Perfection’
Annual Bulb [4]
Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia. Medium lilac/purple with small white heart, 18-20”, double/peony, late. Didn’t do well for us.
X

Tulip ‘Lilac Wonder’

Tulipa Bakeri ‘Lilac Wonder’
Perennial Bulb [3]
Greece (Crete), S. Turkey. Species tulip. 6” tall.
X

Tulip ‘Maja’

Tulipa ‘Maja’
Annual Bulb [4]
1903
Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia, 20” tall, pale yellow with fringed petals, late, Darwin Hybrid

Tulip ‘Mariette’

Tulipa ‘Mariette’
Annual Bulb [4]
1942
Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia. Lily flowered, deep satin rose with silvery white base and edges, 16-20”, late.
X

Tulip ‘Pink Impression’

Tulipa ‘Pink Impression’
Annual Bulb [4]
1979
Darwin Hybrids originated in Belgium circa 1700. This is a newer Giant Darwin Hybrid, 20-22” tall, blooms mid-spring.
X

Tulip ‘Rai’

Tulipa ‘Rai’
Annual Bulb [3]
Turkey, Iran and Central Asia. Parrot, purple/rose splashed with light yellowish-green, 20”, late
X

Tulip ‘Sorbet’

Tulipa ‘Sorbet’
Annual Bulb [4]
1959
Turkey, Iran & Central Asia, rosy white exterior flamed with cardinal red. Rembrandt type, single late tulip, 18-20” tall

Tulip ‘West Point’

Tulipa ‘West Point’
Annual Bulb [4]
1943
Turkey, Iran, Central Asia. Yellow lily-flowered. 20-24”, late
X

Tulip ‘White Parrot’

Tulipa ‘White Parrot’
Annual bulb [3, 4]
ca. 1782 T. Jefferson
Turkey, Iran and Central Asia. In existence since 1665. Parrot, white, 14”, late.
X

Tulip ‘White Triumphator’

Tulipa ‘White Triumphator’
Annual Bulb [4]
1942
Turkey, Iran and Central Asia, 23-25”, lily-flowered, white, late
X

Tulip ‘Yellow Parrot’

Tulipa ‘Yellow Parrot’
Annual Bulb [3, 4]
ca. 1782: T. Jefferson
Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia. In existence since 1665. Parrot, yellow, 18-20”, late.
X

Tulipa ‘Ballade’

Tulipa ‘Ballade’
Perennial Bulb [4, 5]
Turkey, Iran, and Cenral Asia. Lily-flowered, pink/white, late, 20-24” tall.

Tulipa ‘Foxtrot’

Tulipa ‘Foxtrot’
Perennial Bulb [4]
Turkey, Iran, and Central Asia. Double, early to mid-spring, pink/rose, 10-12” tall.

Twin Sisters, Primrose Peerless

Narcissus x medioluteus
Perennial Bulb [4, 5]
Europe, Asia, N. Africa. Fragrant, two blooms/stem, white petals, tiny yellow cup. 1597 Gerard, 1629 Parkinson. Philip Miller (1691-1771) Chelsea Physick Garden. 13W-Y, Very late blooming.
E  

Umbrella Magnolia

Magnolia tripetala
Tree [4, 5, 6]
1737: J.Custis
Southeastern US, 30-40’ tall
N   X

Van Sion, Telamonius Plenus, Nonesuch Daffodil

Narcissus x incomparabilis
Perennial Bulb [3]
1730s: Bartram to Collinson; 1793: J. Skipwith
Introduced to Britain in 1629 (Parkinson). 1614 de Pas’ Hortus Floridus. Flowers double, yellow and green. Sometimes called ‘Butter and Eggs’ but is not the true ‘Butter and Eggs’. 4Y-Y, Very early blooming. According to a chapter in the Daffodil Handbook written in 1966 by Dr. John C. Wister, Bartram wrote to Collinson in the 1730’s that his daffodils were plentiful and that he did not want any more. Unfortunately he did not describe the kinds he was growing. It seems likely that among them was Telamonius Plenus which, under the name of Van Sion, is still to be found in old gardens. Some bulbs rescued with permission from old Chowan County homestead.
E   

Viburnum Laurustinus

Viburnum tinus
Shrub [3]
1804: M’Mahon
Mediterranean region.
P 

Virginia Blue Bells, Virginian Cowslip

Mertensia virginica
Perennial Bulb [4, 5]
1734: J.Custis; 1766: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith
NY to MN and south to SC & AR. Cultivated in England in 1699.
N   X

Virginia Creeper, American Ivy

Parthenocissus quinquefolia
Vine [6]
1804: M’Mahon
N. American native (New England to FL & Mexico to OH, IL, MO). Inconspicuous white flowers.
N 

Virginia Spiderwort

Tradescantia virginiana
Perennial [4, 5, 6]
1793: J. Skipwith; 1802: M’Mahon
Southeast USA
N 

Virginia Stock

Matthiola maritima
Annual [6, 7, 8, 9, 10]
1780s: Mount Vernon
Europe, Central and SW Asia, N. Africa. Robert Brown (1773-1858).
X

Virginia Strawberry, Wild Strawberry

Fragaria virginiana
Perennial [4, 5]
1736: Wm Byrd II; 1766: T. Jefferson
Temperate North America. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
N   X

W. P. Milner

Narcissus moschatus AKA N. milneri
Perennial Bulb [2, 3]
pre-1869
Spain. Hybridized in England by Wm. Backhouse. A variety of N. moschatus. Early to mid-season, 1W-W, dwarf <12.8”. Perianth and trumpet sulphur turning to creamy white. Bulbs rescued with permission from an old Chowan County homestead. E.H.
E 

Wall Germander

Teucrium chamaedrys
Perennial Herb [6, 7, 8, 9]
1760: Mt. Vernon
South & Central Europe, Near East, Morocco. 1746 Tho. Short. Does not grow well here, too hot.
P  

Wallflower, Aegean Wallflower

Erysimum cheiri, Syn. Cheiranthus cheiri
Annual [3, 4, 5, 6]
W. Faris; 1790
Southern Europe

Wax Myrtle, Southern Bayberry

Morella cerifera
Shrub [3, 4]
1709: J. Lawson; 1741: J. Custis; 1771: Prince
N. American native, DE to FL & TX. Formerly known as Myrica cerifera.
N   P   

Welsh Onion, Welsh Leek

Allium fistulosum
Perennial Vegetable [4]
1802: M’Mahon
Originated from wild species Allium altaicum (NW China & Kazakhstan). Brought to Europe in 1629 - Hatfield House/Cranborne Garden Centre.

White Lady Banks Rose

Rosa banksiae alba
Climber [4, 5]
1826: Prince
China. Introduced in England in 1796.
E   X

White Sage, Cudweed

Artemisia ludoviciana ssp. ludoviciana
Perennial Herb [7, 8]
Temperate regions of Northern Hemisphere, native to western USA and Mexico and adventive to the eastern seaboard.
N 

Whorled Tickseed

Coreopsis verticillata
Perennial [6]
N. American native (Southeastern USA)
N   X

Wild Blue Phlox, Sweet William

Phlox divaricata
Perennial [5]
1737: Bartram; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Quebec to Southcentral USA. Grows abundantly near the Roanoke River near Weldon, NC.
N   X

Wild Celery, Smallage

Apium graveolens
Vegetable [N/A]
1672: Josselyn; 1759: Bethabara; 1767: T. Jefferson; 1803: Davenport
Europe after 1640. 1722 Joseph Miller.

Wild Geranium

Geranium maculatum
Perennial [5, 6]
Eastern USA woodlands. Sent to Europe in 1732.
N   X

Winter Savory

Satureja montana
Perennial Herb [8, 9, 10]
1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1736: Wm Byrd II; 1802: M’Mahon 1820: T. Jefferson
Northern Hemisphere. 1722 Joseph Miller. 1746 Tho. Short.
N

Winterberry Holly ‘Jim Dandy’, ‘Spravy’ Berry Heavy (tm)

Ilex verticillata ‘Jim Dandy’, ‘Spravy’ Berry Heavy (tm)
Shrub [6, 7]
Eastern USA. Bartram sent to Collinson in England in 1736.
N

Woodland Sunflower

Helianthus divaricatus
Perennial [7, 8, 9, 10]
Saskatchewan, Ontario, Maine south
N   X

Woolly Hedgenettle, Lamb’s Ears, Woolly Betony

Stachys byzantina, Syn. S. olympica
Perennial Herb [5, 6]
1761: Bethabara
Turkey, Southwest Asia.
P   X

Woolly Yarrow

Achillea millefolium var. occidentalis
Perennial Herb [5, 6]
1780s: Mt. Vernon
Much of the USA including NC. White flower.
N

Yardlong Bean, Long-podded Cowpea

Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis
Annual Vegetable [5, 6]
1738: J.Custis; 1809: T. Jefferson
China & SE Asia. Vigorous climbing annual vine. Best if picked before full maturity.

Yarrow, Milfoil

Achillea millefolium var. rubra
Perennial Herb [5, 6, 7, 8, 9]
1709 J. Lawson; 1736 Wm Byrd II; 1761 Bethabara, NC
Europe, Western Asia. Pinkish/purple flower.
X

Yaupon Holly, Carolina Tea

Ilex vomitoria
Shrub [5]
1709: J. Lawson; 1735: J. Custis; 1771: T. Jefferson; 1783 Bartram
N. American native (Southeastern US). Sent to England in 1726 by Mark Catesby.
N   P   X

Yellow Flag Iris

Iris pseudacorus
Perennial Rhizome [4, 5, 6]
1767: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon
Europe, North Africa, Syria
X

Yellow Snap Bean

Phaseolus vulgaris
Vegetable [5, 6]
T. Jefferson; 1794: M’Mahon; 1802
Andes/Mesoamerica
X

Yellow Spring Bedstraw

Galium verum
Perennial Herb [6]
Europe. Cultivated in England in 1597. 1649 Culpeper.
P   X