Plant Database

(sorted alphabetically by common name)

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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

Go directly to the plants whose common names begin with:

A
B
C
D
E
F

G
H
J
K
L
M

N
O
P
Q
R
S

T
U
V
W
Y
 

 

A

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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

B

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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

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   

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.

C

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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

D

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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

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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

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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

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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

H

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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   

J

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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 self sowing.

X

K

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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

L

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Lady Tulip

Tulipa clusiana ‘Chrysantha’

Perennial Bulb [4]

Asia Minor (Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan). Yellow and orange-red with yellow center. Dates to 1607.

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

Lenten Rose

Helleborus orientalis

Perennial [2, 3, 4]

Eastern Europe/Asia Minor. 1597 Gerard. J. B. de Lamarck (1744-1829). Favretti states suitable for gardens 1776-1850. Elizabeth Lawrence via The Homestead garden.

E   

Lettuce

Lactuca sativa

Annual Vegetable [N/A]

1631: Winthrop,Jr.; 1709: J. Lawson; 1759: Bethabara

Temperate Eurasia.

P   

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.

E   

Lima Bean

Phaseolus lunatus

Vegetable [5, 6]

T. Jefferson; 1777

Mesoamerica in Pre-Columbian cultural areas

X

Loquat

Eriobotrya japonica

Tree [11]

Introduced in 1784; 1793: Simpson (Virginia); 1824 Landreth

China, Japan.

P   

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.

X

Lyreleaf Sage

Salvia lyrata

Perennial Herb [3, 4, 5, 6]

Native to Eastern US (NY to FL to TX)

N   

M

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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

Mullein

Verbascum thapsus

Annual Herb [6]

1736: Wm. Byrd II

Europe, North Africa, Asia

X

Musk Rose ‘Trier’

Rosa ‘Trier’

Shrub [5, 6]

ca. 1850?. Will be replaced.

N

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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.

None-So-Pretty, Sweet William Silene, Catchfly

Silene armeria

Annual or Biennial [6]

1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1799: G. French; 1802: M’Mahon

Southern Europe

O

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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.

P   

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   

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

Oxlip

Primula elatior

Perennial [4, 5]

1806: M’Mahon

England. Introduced in 1764. 10” tall, dark-eyed yellow flowers.

X

P

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Pale Beardtongue

Penstemon pallidus

Perennial [5, 6]

Eastern and Southeastern US. Will naturalize.

N   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.

Peachleaf Bellflower

Campanula persicifolia

Perennial [5, 6, 7]

1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1802: M’Mahon

Eurasia. Introduced to Britain in 1596.

X

Pear ‘Hendre Huffcap’

Pyrus communis ‘Hendre Huffcap’

Tree [3]

United Kingdom. Descended from 2 wild hybrids (P. communis subsp. communis brought to Northern Europe by the Romans and P. communis subsp. Pyraster). Grown for hard cider called perry. Elliptical shaped fruit. Jefferson cites 3 English pears in 1778. Perhaps one was this perry pear?

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.

Pear ‘Seckel’

Pyrus communis ‘Seckel’

Tree [3]

1790: Wm. Faris; 1807: T. Jefferson

Central & Eastern Europe and SW Asia

Pennyroyal, Peppermint

Mentha pulegium

Perennial Herb [8]

1672: Josselyn; 1760: Mt. Vernon

Europe.

P   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   

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

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.

Pheasant’s Eye

Narcissus poeticus var. recurvus

Perennial Bulb [4]

1831

Spain into the Balkans. 1600’s pictured in English herbals. Late blooming. 13W-YYR

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 Jasmine

Jasminum officinale

Perennial Vine [6, 7, 8]

1794 T. Jefferson

Caucasus, northern Persia, Himalayas, and China. Common in England before 1548.

X

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

Q

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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

R

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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   

S

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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 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. Vernon

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.

Sweet Scented Geranium (Rose)

Pelargonium graveolens

Perennial Herb [5, 6]

1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: Ads in 6 southern nursery lists; 1793: J. Skipwith

South Africa

Sweet William

Dianthus barbatus

Perennial [5]

1760: Townley (Boston); 1767: T. Jefferson; 1780s: Mt. Vernon; 1793: J. Skipwith

Europe, Asia. Introduced in 1533. Although a perennial it is quite short-lived and degenerates after its second year. In the garden it is best treated as a biennial.

P   X

Sweet Woodruff

Galium odoratum

Perennial Herb [4, 5]

Europe. 1649 Culpeper. 1722 Joseph Miller (Aspergula odorata).

Sweetbay, White Bay

Magnolia virginiana

Tree [6]

1736 J.Custis; 1785: Mt. Vernon; 1783 Bartram; 1790: T. Jefferson

N. American native (MA to FL & TX).

N   P   

Sweetbriar, Shakespeare’s Briar Rose

Rosa eglanteria

Shrub [5, 6]

1771: T. Jefferson; 1786: Mt. Vernon

Recorded in literature from Chaucer to Shakespeare.

Sweetscented Marigold, Mexican Marigold

Tagetes lucida

Perennial Herb [8, 9, 10, 11]

Central to South America (Guatemala & the state of Oaxaca, Mexico). Used by the Aztecs in their ritual incense. A good substitute for French Tarragon.

T

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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   

U

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Umbrella Magnolia

Magnolia tripetala

Tree [4, 5, 6]

1737: J.Custis

Southeastern US, 30-40’ tall

N   X

V

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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

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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

Y

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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