Type of Plant

Primary Color

Location

Season

Absalon Tulip

Acacia

Adam's Needle

African Marigold

Alfalfa

Alpine Squill

American Plum

Apple

Apricot

Asparagus

Balsam

Banana

Basket of Gold

Beautyberry

Bee Balm

Beets

Black Locust

Black-eyed Susan

Blackberry Lily

Blackhaw

Blue False Indigo

Blue Flag Tulip

Blue Sky Vine

Boston Marrow Squash

Boxwood

Breadseed Poppy

Broccoli

Broom Corn

Browallia

Brown-eyed Susan

Bullnose Pepper

Bush Bean

Bush Lima Bean

Butter and Eggs Daffodil

Butterfly Pea

Butterfly Weed

Byzantine Gladiolus

Cabbage

Calendula

Candytuft

Canterbury Bells

Cardinal Flower

Carolina Allspice

Carolina Jessamine

Carrot

Cauliflower

Cayenne Pepper

Celery

Charles de Mills Rose

Cheese's Mallow

Chicory

China Aster

Chinaberry

Chives

Clary Sage

Climbing Old Blush Rose

Cockscomb

Coffee

Cotton

Cowpea

Cowslip

Cranberrybush

Crimson Clover

Crocus 'Cloth of Gold'

Crown Imperial

Cucumber

Damask Rose

Dame's Rocket

Dipper Gourd

Drumstick Allium

Duc van Tol Red and Yellow Tulip

Duc van Tol Rose Tulip

Early Louisiana Daffodil

Eastern Redbud

Eglantine Rose

Egyptian Walking Onions

Elecampane

Endive

English Bluebells

English Daisy

English Lavender

Fall Daffodil

Fava Beans

Fig

Fish Pepper

Flaming Parrot Tulip

Flax

Florentine Tulip

Fothergilla

Four O'clock

Foxglove

French Marigold

French Striped Marigold

Garden Phlox

Garlic

German Bearded Iris

Germander

Globe Amaranth

Globe Artichoke

Globe Candytuft

Globe Thistle

Gloriosa Daisy

Golden Standard Tulip

Gooseberry

Gray Santolina

Great Blue Lobelia

Halberd-leaf Rose Mallow

Hardy cyclamen

Heliotrope

Helmar Tulip

Hemp

Hollyhock

Honesty

Honeysuckle

Hoop Petticoat Daffodil

Horseradish

Hydrangea

Jatropha

Jerusalem Artichoke

Joe Pye Weed

Johnny Jump-Up

Jospeh's Coat

Kale

Keizerskroon Tulip

Kentucky Coffeetree

Key Lime

Lac van Rijn Tulip

Lady Tulip

Lamb's Ears

Lantana

Larkspur

Leeks

Lemon

Lemon Balm

Lettuce

Leucothoe

Lilac

Live Oak

Lombardy Poplar

Long Island Cheese Pumpkin

Love-in-a-Mist

Love-Lies-Bleeding

Maltese Cross

Mangelwurzel

Maximus Daffodil

Mock Orange

Monkshood

Muscadine Grape

Muskmelon

Mustard Greens

Nasturtium

New England Aster

New York Ironweed

Nora Barlow Columbine

Obedient Plant

Odorus Flore Pleno Daffodil

Okra

Old Blush Rose

Oleander

Onion

Orange

Oregano

Oriental Poppy

Palmetto

Parsnips

Pawpaw

Peach

Pear

Peas

Peony

Persian Fritillary

Persian Lilac

Persimmon

Pheasant's Eye Daffodil

Pincushion Flower

Plum

Pole Bean

Pole Lima Bean

Pomegranate

Potato

Pummelo

Purple Coneflower

Radish

Raspberry

Red Currant

Red Hue Tulip

Rhododendron

Rhubarb

Roman Hyacinth

Rosa Mundi Rose

Rose Campion

Rose Mallow

Rosemary

Rutabaga

Sage

Sago Palm

Sainfoin

Salad Burnet

Salsify

Scarlet Rose Mallow

Scotch Rose

Seminole Squash

Seventeen Sisters Daffodil

Siberian Iris

Silver Standard Tulip

Snake's Head Fritillary

Snapdragon

Sneezeweed

Snowdrop

Southern Catalpa

Southern Magnolia

Spiderwort

Spinach

Stinking hellebore

Stock

Strawberry

Strawberry Bush

Sugar Maple

Summersweet

Sunflower

Swan's Neck Daffodil

Sweet Alyssum

Sweet Potato

Sweet William

Swiss Chard

Sycamore

Tansy

Tart Cherry

Tennessee Red Valencia Peanut

Threadleaf Coreopsis

Thyme

Tiger Daylily

Tobacco

Tournesol Tulip

Tulip Poplar

Turnip

Twin Sisters Daffodil

Valerian

Van Sion Daffodil

Virginia bluebell

Virginia Pine

Virginia Sweetspire

Virginia White Gourdseed Corn

Wallflower

Wapen van Leiden Tulip

Watermelon

Weeping Willow

White Mulberry

White Oak

White Rose of York

Wild Bergamot

Wild Columbine

Willing's Barbados Bird Pepper

Winter Aconite

Winter Rye

Winterberry Holly

Woodland Phlox

Yellow buckeye

Yellow Crookneck Squash

Yellow Willow

Absalon Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1780

Details

Absalon is one of the rarest tulips grown at Mount Vernon. It features yellow flames on maroon petals and is one of the few remaining truly broken tulips.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Absalon'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Acacia

History

Washington wrote in his diary on June 13, 1785, that he planted “a species of the Acacia (or Acasee) used in the West Indias for incircling their Gardens” in "the inclosure I had prepared for a Nursery" (his Botanic Garden).

Details

Sweet acacia bears golden, sweet-smelling flower during the winter months that are attractive to a variety of pollinators. Its ferny foliage and serpentine branch structure add interest to the garden. Acacia trees make almost impenetrable hedges due to their thorny branches, while the flowers are used in the perfume industry.

Latin Name Vachellia farnesiana
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Sweet acacia
Huisache
Needle Bush
Bloom Season November - March
Native Range Mexico and Central America
Max Height 35'
Max Spread 25'
Uses Hedge

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Adam's Needle

History

This Virginia native was grown by a wide variety of historical figures including John Custis, Lady Jean Skipwith, and Thomas Jefferson.

Details

This unique plant looks more suited to a desert climate, but it is found wild up and down the east coast. Its strappy leaves are crowned by huge spikes of creamy white flowers every other year.

Latin Name Yucca filamentosa
Family Asparagaceae
Also Known As Common Yucca
Spanish Bayonet
Needle Palm
Bloom Season June - July
Native Range Southeastern United States
Max Height 8'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Erosion
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

African Marigold

History

Aztec marigolds were brought to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. By 1770, John Bartram of Philadelphia was offering them for sale.

Details

This upright yellow-flowering plant, with its distinctive odor, is a classic of the summer border.

Latin Name Tagetes erecta
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Mexican Marigold
Aztec Marigold
Bloom Season June - October
Native Range Mexico, Central America
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Clay Soil
Uses Annual
Flower Border
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Alfalfa

History

Washington wrote in his diary in March of 1760 that he, "Began plowing the field by the Garden for Lucern."

Details

This plant is used as a perennial fodder crop for livestock.

Latin Name Medicago sativa
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Lucerne
Bloom Season July - July
Native Range South-central Asia
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Ground Cover
Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Alpine Squill

History

This is an old garden plant that was grown widely in Europe by the mid-1700s.

Details

These tiny blue flowers are some of the most shade tolerant of the spring flower bulbs.

Latin Name Scilla bifolia
Family Asparagaceae
Bloom Season March - April
Native Range Central and southern Europe, Turkey
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

American Plum

History

Washington wrote in his diary in March of 1786, "Hoed the ground behind the Garden again and planded therein, in three Rows 177 of the wild, or Cherokee plumb; (sent me by Mr. Geo. A Washington) 8 inches a part in the rows with 18 inch intervals."

Details

This native plum has a sprawling habit, which showcases the beautiful white flowers in spring and the unique pink plums in midsummer. The plants become scaly with age and are somewhat disease prone.

Latin Name Prunus americana
Family Rosaceae
Also Known As Wild Plum
Bloom Season March - March
Native Range Eastern and Central North America
Max Height 25'
Max Spread 25'
Tolerances Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Naturalize
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Apple

History

Apples were an important crop during the colonial period due to the popularity (and necessity) of cider production. Washington grew several varieties for this purpose in the Orchard at his Mansion Farm, as well as on his outlying farms. He records "Received 215 Apple trees (red striek) from Major Jenifer; wh[ic]h I sent to the river plantation in the Neck, to be planted" in his diary on November 12, 1785.

Details

Apples are ideally planted in multiples of different varieties for optimal fruit production, and many also benefit from pollinators to increase the effectiveness of cross-pollination. Most apple trees are grown from scionwood grafted to rootstock, and the kind of rootstock will determine the ultimate height and disease resistance of the tree. Dwarf and some semi-dwarf trees, with their smaller root systems, must be staked or trained to a wall or fence, much like the espaliered trees at Mount Vernon. The health and fruit yields of most trees depends on proper pruning and treatment of pests and disease.

Latin Name Malus pumila
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Europe, Asia
Max Height 20'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Flowering Tree
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Apricot

History

Apricots have been grown at Mount Vernon since 1762 when Washington notes that he was grafting them.

Details

This underappreciated stone fruit has lovely blossoms early in the spring. Because of their early bloom time, the flowers are susceptible to freezing.

Latin Name Prunus armeniaca
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Asia
Max Height 20'
Max Spread 10'
Uses Edible
Flowering Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Asparagus

History

George Washington was growing asparagus in his south (lower) garden in 1785.

Details

Asparagus is an unusual plant that is primarily cultivated for its edible tender young shoots in the spring. When mature, it has large ferny foliage that is pale green.

Latin Name Asparagus officinalis
Family Asparagaceae
Native Range North and South America
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Rabbit
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Balsam

History

In 1793, a Mr. Minton Collins of Alexandria advertised balsam seeds for sale which he had received in a shipment from London.

Details

This plant is ideally used in the front of the flower border and is prone to reseeding. It was a common garden plant in the 18th century.

Latin Name Impatiens balsamina
Family Balsaminaceae
Also Known As Touch-Me-Not
Bloom Season June - September
Native Range India, Southeast Asia
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Banana

History

George Washington received banana plants in 1799 in a shipment of plants and seeds from the East Indies.

Details

Since bananas must reach a certain size to set fruit, today they are mostly used in the garden for their dramatic foliage.

Latin Name Musa coccinea
Family Musaceae
Native Range Indochina
Max Height 10'
Max Spread 10'
Uses Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Basket of Gold

History

Horticulturist Henry Middleton of South Carolina had this plant in his garden by 1800.

Details

These sweet-smelling golden flowers are ideal for the front of the border in spring when bulbs are blooming.

Latin Name Aurinia saxatilis
Family Brassicaceae
Also Known As Golden-tuft Alyssum
Rock Madwort
Gold Dust
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Central and Southeastern Europe
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Drought
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Annual
Flower Border
Ground Cover
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Beautyberry

History

It was first sent to England in 1724 by Mark Catesby.

Details

All parts of this bold shrub are fragrant. It particularly deserves its name for the profusion of amethyst purple berries borne on its long branches.

Latin Name Callicarpa americana
Family Lamiaceae
Bloom Season June - August
Native Range Southeastern United States
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 6'
Tolerances Clay Soil
Uses Naturalize
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Bee Balm

History

William Faris referred to this plant as "Bergamot Balm" and kept it in his Annapolis garden.

Details

Bee Balm is a tall summer-blooming perennial with brilliant red flowers subtended by a whorl of showy, red-tinged, leafy bracts. The aromatic leaves can be used for tea, but are susceptible to mildew, so this plant needs good air circulation. A member of the mint family, bee balm spreads readily by rhizomes and self-seeding to form large colonies, so be prepared to divide it every few years.

Latin Name Monarda didyma
Family Lamiaceae
Also Known As Monarda
Bergamot
Oswego tea
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Canada, United States
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Clay Soil
Deer
Rabbit
Wet Soil
Uses Flower Border
Edible
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Beets

History

George Washington's gardeners recorded many instances of planting beets.

Details

Beets are a popular root crop used for pickling, roasting, and salads. They come in an array of colors, including red, yellow, and red and white striped.

Latin Name Beta vulgaris
Family Amaranthaceae
Native Range Europe, northern Africa, southern Asia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Black Locust

History

Black locust has historically been a valuable source of wood for fence posts, due to their rot-resistance. Washington planted a grove of locust on the north end of the mansion.

Details

Black locust trees are fast-growing with an open habit, prominent thorns when young, and deeply furrowed bark when mature. Their fragrant white pea-like flowers attract honey bees, who make an aromatic honey from the pollen.

Latin Name Robinia pseudoacacia
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As False Acacia
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Eastern and central United States
Max Height 80'
Max Spread 35'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Deer
Drought
Uses Shade Tree
Street Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Black-eyed Susan

History

John Bartram of Philadelphia was selling orange coneflower in his 1770 catalog.

Details

A cottage garden favorite, black-eyed susan features masses of ferociously yellow flowers that attract butterflies. They are incredibly hardy and tolerate a wide variety of conditions, making them ideal for naturalizing.

Latin Name Rudbeckia fulgida
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Perennial coneflower
Orange coneflower
Bloom Season June - October
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Deer
Drought
Clay Soil
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Blackberry Lily

History

Lady Jean Skipwith planted these in her Virginia garden in 1793.

Details

Blackberry lilies are named for their glossy black seeds which look nearly identical to an actual blackberry. They have beautiful orange flowers with darker spots on long graceful stems above strappy green foliage.

Latin Name Iris domestica
Family Iridaceae
Also Known As Leopard Lily
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Central Asia, India, China, Japan
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Blackhaw

History

Blackhaws are an American native that initially appeared on John Bartram's lists in 1739.

Details

These large spring blooming shrubs with edible berries do best in natural areas where they can achieve their full size.

Latin Name Viburnum prunifolium
Family Adoxaceae
Also Known As Sweet Haw
Stag Bush
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Eastern and Central North America
Max Height 15'
Max Spread 12'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Black Walnut
Clay Soil
Drought
Uses Edible
Hedge
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Blue False Indigo

History

False indigo was originally cultivated as a potential dye, but the color proved weaker than true indigo. It was noted in the early 18th century by Williamsburg naturalist John Clayton.

Details

This unique plant features bright blue-purple flowers on tall green stalks followed by interesting black seedpods. It forms a deep taproot and does not transplant well, so be certain of its location before planting.

Latin Name Baptisia australis
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Rattleweed
Blue Wild Indigo
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 4'
Tolerances Drought
Rabbit
Clay Soil
Erosion
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Blue Flag Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1750

Details

Blue Flag is a petite double tulip with flouncy purple petals. Its short stature makes it ideally suited for the front of the border.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Blue Flag'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Blue Sky Vine

History

George Washington received blue sky vine plants from Thomas Law, who was his grandson-in-law, in 1799.

Details

Blue sky vine is a large, twining vine that boasts beautiful pale blue flowers. It is a rapid grower and becomes quite large over the course of a season.

Latin Name Thunbergia grandiflora
Family Acanthaceae
Also Known As Bengal Clockvine
Native Range Northern India
Max Height 30'
Max Spread 6'
Uses Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Boston Marrow Squash

Details

Boston Marrows are large, bright orange squashes that can weigh anywhere between 10 and 50 lbs., although 25 lbs. is more common. They are an excellent eating squash and can be turned into soups or pies.

Latin Name Cucurbita maxima 'Boston Marrow
Family Cucurbitaceae
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range South America
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Annual
Edible
Ornamental
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Boxwood

History

After visiting Mount Vernon in 1796, architect Benjamin Latrobe observed, "On one side of the lawn is a plain Kitchen garden, on the other side a neat flower garden laid out in squares, and boxed with great precission [sic]."

Details

Boxwood are the quintessential southern garden hedge plant. They are popular for use in knot gardens, parterres, edging, and as topiaries. While the historic English boxwood (Buxus suffruiticosa) are especially susceptible to a devastating and widespread blight caused by the fungus Cylindrocladium buxicola, there are new varieties that have been bred to offer various levels of resistance. Several varieties of boxwood grow in the Mount Vernon gardens including: Buxus sempervirens (American), Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Green Beauty', and 'Morris Dwarf.'

Latin Name Buxus spp.
Family Buxaceae
Native Range Europe, Asia
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 5'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Uses Hedge
Flower Border
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Breadseed Poppy

History

Historically, this plant has been used for cooking and medicinal purposes. Brother August Schubert of Bethabara was growing breadseed poppies in 1761.

Details

This elegant annual forms an attractive seedhead after blooming and is ideal for the middle of the border in the spring garden. It self-sows reliably, but does not transplant well.

Latin Name Papaver somniferum
Family Papaveraceae
Also Known As Lettuce-leaf Poppy
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Eastern Mediterranean
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Broccoli

History

George Washington's gardener recorded planting "brockley" in the "high" garden on June 9, 1798.

Details

Broccoli is a cool season vegetable which has been cultivated since the Roman Empire. It is grown for its tender florets which can be eaten raw or cooked.

Latin Name Brassica oleracea (Italica)
Family Brassicaceae
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 2.5'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Broom Corn

History

This was a popular colonial plant used for making brooms.

Details

This large plant is used to make brooms. However, it is not a true corn.

Latin Name Sorghum vulgare
Family Poaceae
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Central Africa
Max Height 12'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Annual
Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Browallia

History

It was introduced into cultivation in 1735, and was recommended by Philadelphia nurseyman Bernard McMahon in The American Gardener's Calendar (1806).

Details

Airy blue flowers form a stunning mass mid-border late in the season when many other flowers are fading. In southern climates, this plant self-sows with vigor.

Latin Name Browallia americana
Family Solanaceae
Also Known As Amethyst Flower
Bush Violet
Bloom Season August - October
Native Range South America
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Brown-eyed Susan

History

The plantsman John Bartram sold Brown-eyed Susans in his catalog in 1770.

Details

Brown-eyed Susans form masses of bright gold flowers above dark green foliage. It will flop without a midseason trim to keep it from getting too tall. It is ideal for naturalizing because it reseeds readily.

Latin Name Rudbeckia triloba
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Thin-leaved Coneflower
Three-leaved Coneflower
Bloom Season July - October
Native Range Central United States
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Bullnose Pepper

History

Thomas Jefferson was growing Bullnose peppers in 1774.

Details

The bullnose pepper is a type of sweet pepper which produces abundantly. Its fruits are somewhat smaller than modern bell peppers and they are susceptible to sunscald. However, they have an excellent flavor.

Latin Name Capsicum annuum
Family Solanaceae
Native Range South and Central America
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Drought

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Bush Bean

History

George Washington planted "bunch" or bush hominy beans in his fields at The Neck, Frenches', and Muddy Hole.

Details

Bush beans are compact, low growing plants that produce large crops of beans. They can be used for fresh eating or as dry beans.

Latin Name Phaseolus vulgaris
Family Fabaceae
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 2.5'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Bush Lima Bean

History

George Washington sent a letter to William Pearce in 1794 where he included lima beans for the gardener to plant.

Details

Bush lima beans are vigorous, productive plants. Their smaller size makes them easy to grow in the home garden and they still provide a bounteous harvest. They can be used dry or fresh.

Latin Name Phaseolus lunatus
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Butter Bean
Native Range Central America
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Annual
Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Butter and Eggs Daffodil

History

Date of Introduction: 1777

Details

Butter and Eggs is pale yellow double daffodil with many frilly petals. Its height makes it well suited to the middle of the flower border.

Latin Name Narcissus incomparabilis aurantius plenus
Family Amaryllidaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Southern Europe and northern Africa
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Butterfly Pea

History

George Washington received butterfly pea seeds from his grandson-in-law Thomas Law in 1799.

Details

Butterfly peas are short lived tropical perennials with striking blue flowers. They have a twining habit and prefer rich, moist, well-drained soils. They make attractive container plants in Virginia.

Latin Name Clitoria ternatea
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Asian Pigeonwings
Blue Pea
Native Range Tropical Asia
Max Height 15'
Max Spread 6'
Uses Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Butterfly Weed

History

They are native in all counties of Virginia and have long been popular in gardens, including Lady Skipwith's garden at Prestwould in 1793.

Details

This plant features brilliant orange flowers that light up the garden and are attractive to pollinators, including monarchs and honeybees.

Latin Name Asclepias tuberosa
Family Apocynaceae
Also Known As Pleurisy Root
Bloom Season June - August
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Erosion
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Dry Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Byzantine Gladiolus

History

Lady Skipwith planted corn flags at her Virginia estate, Prestwould, in 1793.

Details

This petite, graceful gladiolus features bright pink flowers on long, elegant stems. It is somewhat hardier than most modern gladioli.

Latin Name Gladiolus communis
Family Iridaceae
Also Known As Corn Flag
Bloom Season June - July
Native Range Southern Europe and northwestern Africa
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1'
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cabbage

History

George Washington had cabbage planted between his rows of corn at several of his farms.

Details

Cabbage is a cool season annual that was a staple crop in the colonial period and continues to be so today.

Latin Name Brassica oleracea
Family Brassicaceae
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Calendula

History

Thomas Jefferson was growing calendula at his home as early as 1767.

Details

Calendulas are an old fashioned herb with bright yellow or orange flowers. They are profuse bloomers in the spring and fall, but will stop blooming during the hot part of the summer. Their flowers can be used in salads and soaps.

Latin Name Calendula officinalis
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Pot Marigold
Scotch Marigold
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Southern Europe
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Rabbit
Uses Annual
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Candytuft

Details

This compact plant is covered in drifts of tiny white flowers in the spring. It blooms at the same time as many of the spring bulbs and provides a nice accent among them.

Latin Name Iberis sempervirens
Family Brassicaceae
Also Known As Evergreen Candytuft
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Southern Europe
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Rabbit
Deer
Drought
Uses Ground Cover

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Canterbury Bells

History

George French of Fredericksburg, Virginia offered seeds of these for sale in January of 1799.

Details

Canterbury bells are a common sight in cottage gardens. Their bright purple flowers add a richness of color to the pastels of late spring and early summer. They are a short-lived perennial and often need to be replanted.

Latin Name Campanula medium
Family Campanulaceae
Also Known As Bellflower
Glass Flower
Bloom Season May - July
Native Range Southern Europe
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cardinal Flower

History

The Marquis de Lafayette wrote to George Washington requesting seeds of the cardinal flower for the King's gardens at Versailles.

Details

The vibrant red blooms of the cardinal flower makes it an ideal plant for the shady summer garden. It reseeds readily and is ideal for naturalizing and sharing with friends.

Latin Name Lobelia cardinalis
Family Campanulaceae
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range North America
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Wet Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Carolina Allspice

History

In May of 1786, Washington's diary records that he "Planted or rather transplanted from the Box sent me by Colo. Wm. Washington of So. Carolina 6 of the Sweet scented, or aromatic shrub in my Shrubberies, on each side the Serpentine walks on this (or East) side of the Garden gate."

Details

Give this shrub ample room to sprawl, as it tends to sucker when it's happy. The unusual chocolatey maroon flowers give off a spicy sweet fragrance which is echoed in cut twigs and leaves.

Latin Name Calycanthus floridus
Family Calycanthaceae
Also Known As Sweetshrub
Bloom Season May - July
Native Range Southeastern United States
Max Height 10'
Max Spread 12'
Tolerances Clay Soil
Deer
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Carolina Jessamine

History

Washington's gardener planted four yellow jessamines by the garden gates in 1786.

Details

This rambling evergreen vine sports masses of fragrant tubular yellow flowers in late winter and early spring. It is well-suited for use on arbors and fences.

Latin Name Gelsemium sempervirens
Family Gelsemiaceae
Also Known As Evening Trumpetflower
Woodbine
Bloom Season February - April
Native Range Southern United States, Mexico, Guatemala
Max Height 20'
Max Spread 6'
Uses Ground Cover
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Carrot

History

Washington grew carrots as a field crop in between rows of potatoes, and in the vegetable gardens on the Estate.

Details

Carrots are a root crop which comes in a wide variety of colors. They can be yellow, orange, or purple. While the purple colored varieties are some of the oldest types, orange varieties of carrots were popular by the mid-1700s. They can be served fresh in salads, or cooked.

Latin Name Daucus carota var. sativa
Family Apiaceae
Native Range Afghanistan
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Vegetable
Edible
Annual

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cauliflower

History

In May of 1798, Washington's gardener records that he planted "calliflowers" in the lower garden.

Details

Cauliflower is a cabbage relative with broad blue-green leaves and a large white head. It is slow to harvest and benefits from a long cool season.

Latin Name Brassica oleracea (Botrytis)
Family Brassicaceae
Native Range Western Europe
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cayenne Pepper

History

Washington planted cayenne peppers in his botanical garden in 1785.

Details

Cayenne peppers are large prolific plants. They produce bountiful crops of slender, spicy red peppers that can be used fresh or dried.

Latin Name Capsicum annuum
Family Solanaceae
Native Range Tropical North and South America
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Celery

History

Brother Lung of the Moravian settlement at Bethabara, North Carolina was growing celery in the Upland Garden in 1759.

Details

Celery is a familiar component of Bloody Marys, salads, and soups. It is grown primarily for its crisp stalks which add a mild flavor to food. Celery is a cool season vegetable and does not like the hot summers of the southern part of the country.

Latin Name Apium graveolens var. dulce
Family Apiaceae
Native Range Europe
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 1.5'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Charles de Mills Rose

History

The Charles de Mills rose has been known in cultivation since approximately 1790.

Details

This Gallica class rose is full-flowered with luscious petals of a deep crimson. It has fragrant flowers in the spring.

Latin Name Rosa gallica 'Charles de Mills'
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Central and southern Europe
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 5'
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cheese's Mallow

History

John Bartram of Philadelphia listed High Mallow for sale in his plant catalog by 1770.

Details

High Mallow is an upright, bushy plant with magenta flowers and darker purple stripes. It reseeds readily and naturalizes quickly in the garden.

Latin Name Malva sylvestris
Family Malvaceae
Also Known As High Mallow
Common Mallow
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Western Europe, Northern Africa, Asia
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize
Annual

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Chicory

History

Washington was experimenting with chicory as a field crop.

Details

This blue-flowered perennial is common as a roadside weed, but has a long history of being used as an edible or fodder.

Latin Name Cichorium intybus
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Wild Endive
Succory
Coffeeweed
Bloom Season May - October
Native Range Europe, northern Africa, western Asia
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Edible
Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

China Aster

History

They have been cultivated in the United States since 1737, when John Custis was growing them in his Williamsburg garden.

Details

The pink, purple, or white flowers of this cheerful daisy are an excellent midsummer accent in any flower garden.

Latin Name Callistephus chinensis
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Annual Aster
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range China
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Chinaberry

History

Washington planted Pride of China in his botanical garden, writing on July 23, 1785, "Perceived a few Plants of the Pride of China (the Seed of which were Sowed on the 13th. of June) to be coming up."

Details

Chinaberry is a fast-growing deciduous tree often made of several smaller trunks, as it is able to readily sprout from the roots. The widely spreading crown, pale purple tube-like fragrant blooms, and attractive yellow drupes that persist all winter made it a popular ornamental shade tree in southern yards during the 1900s, but now it is noted for its invasive qualities, naturalizing along roadsides and fence rows. Many animal species - including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, dogs, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs, poultry and humans - have been poisoned by chinaberry, usually by ingesting the fallen fruit.

Latin Name Melia azedarach
Family Meliaceae
Also Known As Pride of China
Bead Tree
Ceylon Mahogany
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Northern India, central and western China
Max Height 50'
Max Spread 50'
Uses Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Chives

History

William Byrd II recorded chives on his plant list in 1736.

Details

Chives are a small clump-forming onion relative. The stems are frequently used as a culinary herb, and the flowers are attractive to pollinators.

Latin Name Allium schoenoprasum
Family Amaryllidaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Balkans, Siberia, Asia Minor
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Black Walnut
Uses Herb
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Clary Sage

History

John Bartram of Philadelphia listed Clary sage in his 1770 catalog.

Details

Spires of pink and white bracts crown this large-leafed salvia. It has been used as an herb since the Middle Ages and is currently used as flavoring for wines, vermouth, and liqueurs.

Latin Name Salvia sclarea
Family Lamiaceae
Bloom Season June - August
Native Range Europe to Central Asia
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Flower Border
Herb
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Climbing Old Blush Rose

History

Climbing Old Blush is a sport of the Old Blush rose and has been cultivated since the 1750s.

Details

This elegant climbing rose sports large pink flowers from spring until nearly Christmas. It is lightly fragrant and easily trained to a graceful climbing habit against walls or over trellises.

Latin Name Rosa chinensis 'Climbing Old Blush'
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season May - January
Native Range Eastern Asia
Max Height 20'
Max Spread 20'
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cockscomb

History

John Custis of Williamsburg received cockscomb seeds from plantsman Peter Collinson of London in 1738.

Details

A sturdy long-blooming annual, this impressive plant is ideal for the back of the border. Its bright flowers come in many colors, including hot pink, peach, deep rose, yellow, and red.

Latin Name Celosia argentea var. cristata
Family Amaranthaceae
Bloom Season July - October
Native Range India
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Annual
Flower Border
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Coffee

History

George Washington received coffee plants from Thomas Law, who was his grandson-in-law, in 1799.

Details

Coffee forms a large shrub with glossy green leaves. It has small white flowers. This plant produces the coffee beans so many of us rely on every day, but in this part of the world is primarily used as an ornamental.

Latin Name Coffea arabica
Family Rubiaceae
Native Range Tropical Africa
Max Height 15'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cotton

History

George Washington wrote to John Jay in March of 1794, "I thank you for the Nankeen Cotton-seed with which you had the goodness to furnish me. It shall be sent to Mount Vernon with orders to my Gardener to be particularly attentive thereto, but with little hope, I confess, of success; that climate & country being too high & cold for this plant."

Details

This crop is grown for the fibers it produces, although ornamental varieties do exist.

Latin Name Gossypium hirsutum
Family Malvaceae
Also Known As Upland Cotton
Bloom Season July - October
Native Range West Indies, Northern South America, Central America, Mexico
Max Height 8'
Max Spread 4'
Uses Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cowpea

History

In Washington's May 6, 1786 diary entry, he writes "Found that all the large (Indian) Peas I had, had been sown with the drill plow yesterday, at Dogue run"..." only compleated 8 rows—after which, they proceeded to sow the small black eyed pea & finished with them."

Details

The name "cowpea" was probably coined for their use as a fodder crop for cows, and while grown for their edible bean, the leaves and pods can also be consumed. Black-eyed peas can be harvested as a snap bean, or dried, and are the main ingredient in Hoppin' John, a traditional Southern dish ritually served on New Year's Day.

Latin Name Vigna unguiculata
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Black-eyed pea
Southern pea
Yardlong bean
Catjang
Crowder pea
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Western and eastern Africa
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 4'
Uses Edible
Crop
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cowslip

History

Lady Jean Skipwith recorded English cowslips in her Prestwould, Virginia garden in 1793.

Details

This cute perennial forms small masses of green foliage with bright yellow or red flowers in the early spring. It is particularly sweet when planted with bulbs or other spring ephemerals in the front of the border.

Latin Name Primula veris
Family Primulaceae
Also Known As Primula
English Cowslip
Fairy Cups
Tittypines
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Temperate Europe and Asia
Max Height 0.75'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Wet Soil
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cranberrybush

History

Washington received some young guelder rose plants from his neighbor George Mason at Gunston Hall in 1785.

Details

Cranberrybush has stunning white flowers reminiscent of a hydrangea, which makes up for its somewhat coarse texture and stiffly upright growth.

Latin Name Viburnum opulus
Family Adoxaceae
Also Known As Snowball Bush
Guelder Rose
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Europe, northern Africa, and Asia
Max Height 15'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Hedge
Naturalize
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Crimson Clover

History

George Washington planted red clover extensively as a cover crop at all his farms.

Details

This clover is used primarily as a cover crop and fodder, but it is also a good nectar source for bees.

Latin Name Trifolium incarnatum
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Italian Clover
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Europe
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Dry Soil
Clay Soil
Uses Annual
Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Crocus 'Cloth of Gold'

History

This bulb was first discovered in 1587 and were well known in England by 1629.

Details

Crocuses cheerfully herald the coming spring with bright yellow flowers. They naturalize easily in gardens, offering clumps which grow larger year by year.

Latin Name Crocus angustifolius 'Cloth of Gold'
Family Iridaceae
Bloom Season March - April
Native Range Europe to Western Asia
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Clay Soil
Deer
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Crown Imperial

History

William Faris, an Annapolis clock maker and gardener, records the crown imperial on his 1790s list of flowers grown in his garden.

Details

This large bulb has striking orange flowers borne on long lily-like flowers in spring. It is best placed on its side when planted to prevent rotting and then left undisturbed.

Latin Name Fritillaria imperialis 'Rubra Maxima'
Family Liliaceae
Also Known As Kaiser's Crown
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Western Asia to Himalayas
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Deer
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Cucumber

History

John Custis sent cucumber seeds to Peter Collinson in 1738.

Details

Cucumbers are a vining plant with yellow flowers and slightly prickly stems. There are many varieties which produce cucumbers of different sizes and shapes.

Latin Name Cucumis sativus
Family Cucurbitaceae
Native Range South Asia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 8'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Damask Rose

History

The Damask rose has a long and storied history, but its origin remains unclear. We know that it was documented in England by 1540, and in 1791 Thomas Jefferson was growing a variety of damask rose in his garden at Monticello.

Details

The highly fragrant damask rose offers a profusion of pink flowers in the spring. Flowers from this large and mostly upright shrub have been used for centuries in perfume making, as well as for rose oil, rose water, and for cooking.

Latin Name Rosa x damascena
Family Rosaceae
Also Known As Rose of Castile
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Eurasia
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 6'

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Dame's Rocket

History

The English plant collector Peter Collinson sent seeds of Dame's Rocket to John Custis of Williamsburg in 1735.

Details

A fragrant spring bloomer, this perennial naturalizes readily. Its white flowers are refreshing among all the pink and blue spring blooms. This flower cuts nicely for pleasant smelling bouquets.

Latin Name Hesperis matronalis
Family Brassicaceae
Also Known As Garden Rocket
Damask Violet
Sweet Rocket
Mother-of-the-evening
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Europe, central Asia
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Naturalize
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Dipper Gourd

History

John Custis sent Peter Collinson some gourd seeds in 1741.

Details

Dipper gourds are sprawling plants that produce enormous quantities of fruit over the course of the season. The gourds they produce can be used to make drinking vessels, birdhouses, and other decorative items.

Latin Name Lagenaria siceraria
Family Cucurbitaceae
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Pantropical
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 16'
Uses Annual
Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Drumstick Allium

History

Purple-headed garlick has been in popular use since 1766 and was listed in the first bulb catalog in the United States.

Details

This unique late-blooming bulb sports maroon flower-heads, for which it earns its common of drumstick allium.

Latin Name Allium sphaerocephalon
Family Amaryllidaceae
Also Known As Round-headed Leek
Purple-headed Garlick
Bloom Season June - July
Native Range Europe, northern Africa, western Asia
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Deer
Drought
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Duc van Tol Red and Yellow Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1595

Details

Duc van Tol Red and Yellow is a petite tulip that does best when planted near the front of the border.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Duc van Tol Red and Yellow'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Duc van Tol Rose Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1700

Details

Duc van Tol Rose is a petite tulip with pointed pink and white petals.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Duc van Tol Rose
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 0.75'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Early Louisiana Daffodil

History

Date of introduction: 1612

Details

Early Louisiana is a petite yellow daffodil that is well suited to naturalizing. It does well towards the front of the flower border.

Latin Name Narcissus jonquilla 'Early Louisiana'
Family Asparagaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Southern Europe and northern Africa
Max Height 0.75'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Drought
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Eastern Redbud

History

Washington writes that he "Road to my Mill Swamp, where my Dogue run hands were at work & to other places in search of the sort of Trees I shall want for my walks, groves, & Wildernesses" . This included "a great abundance of the red-bud of all sizes" that he found along the river near his old brick kiln.

Details

This small, spreading native tree offers a profusion of purplish-pink flowers lining the dark branches in April, followed by large heart-shaped leaves. The redbud evolved in the understory and wood edges of forests, where it is sheltered from intense sunlight, and is prettiest planted among dogwoods and other small spring- flowering shrubs.

Latin Name Cercis canadensis
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Spicewood Tree
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 30'
Max Spread 35'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Deer
Clay Soil
Uses Street Tree
Flowering Tree
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Eglantine Rose

History

The Eglantine rose was known in the American colonies by the 1740s.

Details

Eglantine roses are large and sprawling, with single pale pink flowers in late spring and early summer. They are strongly apple-scented and their hips are popular for use in tea. This rose may be restrained by growing on posts or trellises to control its long, thorny canes.

Latin Name Rosa rubiginosa
Family Rosaceae
Also Known As Sweetbriar Rose
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Europe and Western Asia
Max Height 15'
Max Spread 8'
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Egyptian Walking Onions

History

Bernard McMahon of Philadelphia listed walking onions in his 1802 seed catalog.

Details

Egyptian walking onions are a unique plant which produces the next generation in a crown of bulblets atop their stalks in lieu of flowers. As the bulblets grow, their weight pulls them to the ground, where they take root to grow new plants. While the young bulbs are mild and can be used as scallions, old bulbs are quite pungent.

Latin Name Allium x proliferum
Family Amaryllidaceae
Also Known As Tree onion
Topsetting onion
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1'
Uses Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Elecampane

History

John Bartram had this plant in his catalog in the mid-18th century.

Details

This plant's large leaves add a unique texture to the back of the border, while its yellow flowers provide late season interest. Elecampane is used in France and Switzerland to make absinthe.

Latin Name Inula helenium
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Horse Heal
Elfdock
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Eurasia
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Flower Border
Herb

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Endive

History

Thomas Jefferson was growing endive in his garden in 1777.

Details

Endive has broad, bright green leaves and looks somewhat like a rougher-textured lettuce. It has a sharp, bitter flavor.

Latin Name Cichorium endivia
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Escarole
Native Range Europe
Max Height 0.75'
Max Spread 0.75'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

English Bluebells

History

These delicate flowers were first cultivated for the garden in 1200.

Details

Cascading blue flowers on arching stems slowly naturalize in the garden.

Latin Name Hyacinthoides non-scripta
Family Asparagaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Western Europe
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Heavy Shade
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

English Daisy

History

Due to its homeopathic qualities, English Daisy was included in the Hortus Medicus at Bethabara, North Carolina, which is known as the oldest medical garden in the country.

Details

With its cute white flower, this petite daisy makes a charming addition to the garden. It is usually grown as a short-lived perennial, but it will reseed if permitted.

Latin Name Bellis perennis
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Woundwort
Bloom Season May - July
Native Range Southwestern Eurasia
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 0.75'
Uses Flower Border
Annual
Herb
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

English Lavender

History

Thomas Jefferson grew English lavender as one of his kitchen herbs in 1794.

Details

Fragrant spires of dark purple flowers above silvery foliage light up the garden border in summer. If trimmed after blooming, they will flower again. Their flowers may be used in sachets or as flavoring in baking and drinks.

Latin Name Lavandula angustifolia
Family Lamiaceae
Also Known As Common Lavender
Garden Lavender
True Lavender
Bloom Season June - August
Native Range Mediterranean
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 4'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border
Herb

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Fall Daffodil

History

Date of introduction: 1596

Details

This crocus-like lemon yellow bulb is a surprising and unusual find in the fall garden. They perform best in sunny, protected locations.

Latin Name Sternbergia lutea
Family Amaryllidaceae
Also Known As Winter Daffodil
Yellow Autumnal Amaryllis
Bloom Season September - October
Native Range Mediterranean to central Asia
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Fava Beans

History

Of the broad, or "horse" bean, Jefferson wrote John Taylor, 29 Dec. 1794, “The President has tried it without success.” It is possible that Washington's failure was due to the hot Virginia summers, which this bean cannot tolerate.

Details

Fava beans, a cool season plant, performs best in either the spring or the fall. They are quite robust and can grow to three feet high, producing many large pods which are best eaten shelled.

Latin Name Vicia faba
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Broad bean
Horse bean
Native Range Northern Africa and southern Asia
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Fig

History

On November 18, 1784, Washington wrote to John Marsden Pintard, agent for the United States in the Island of Madeira, asking for "a few slips of the vines of your best eating Grape; and a young fig tree or two." While these fig trees didn't survive the voyage, he did eventually plant some figs in the Lower Garden, as noted in his Gardener's report on February 18, 1798, when the gardeners were " Diging & pruning Fig trees in the under Garden..." Washington often mentions the vine and fig as a metaphor for retirement from public life, as in a 1797 letter to the Marquis du Lafayette, writing "that I have once more retreated to the shades of my own Vine and Fig tree, where I shall remain with best vows for the prosperity of that country for whose happiness I have ... "

Details

The fig tree dates back to ancient times and is an important source of food for many cultures. Flowers are borne inside the fig structure (syconium), and the fig is ripe and at its sweetest when it softens and turns dark late in the season. Coarse-textured leaves, which are large and deeply lobed, are immediately eye-catching in the garden.

Latin Name Ficus carica
Family Moraceae
Native Range Asia
Max Height 30'
Max Spread 30'
Uses Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Fish Pepper

History

Fish peppers were commonly seen in the gardens of the enslaved people and were often used for making fish sauces.

Details

Fish peppers are hot peppers with variegated white leaves. The peppers themselves are often streaked with white and start green before maturing to red.

Latin Name Capsicum annuum
Family Solanaceae
Native Range Caribbean
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Flaming Parrot Tulip

History

Date of introduction: circa 1650

Details

Flaming Parrot is a favorite here at Mount Vernon, with its bold red stripes on fringed yellow petals. It is a tall, late-blooming tulip that does well in the middle of the border.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Flaming Parrot'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Flax

History

Washington grew flax at most of his farms.

Details

This crop has bright blue flowers. It is primarily used to make linen from its fibers and its seeds used as supplements and for linseed oil.

Latin Name Linum usitatissimum
Family Linaceae
Also Known As Linseed
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Middle East
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 1'
Uses Annual
Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Florentine Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1597

Details

The Florentine tulip is a charming yellow species tulip, with its bright flowers held on long, elegant stems.

Latin Name Tulipa sylvestris
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.25'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Fothergilla

History

Its name honors Alexander Garden, a Scottish physician and plant enthusiast, who took up residence in Charleston, South Carolina in 1752 and first discovered and introduced Fothergilla gardenii to England.

Details

The aromatic flowers on this dwarf shrub are redolent of honey. It is a plant of multi-season interest with its brilliant fall foliage and unique branching.

Latin Name Fothergilla gardenii
Family Hamamelidaceae
Also Known As Dwarf Fothergilla
Witch Alder
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Southeastern United States
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 4'
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Four O'clock

History

At Monticello, Thomas Jefferson observed in 1767, "Mirabilis just opened, very clever."

Details

Named for the time of day the bloom opens, four o'clocks will attract hummingbirds and nocturnal pollinators to your garden. This bushy plant reseeds readily, producing hundreds of large black seeds that resemble hand grenades.

Latin Name Mirabilis jalapa
Family Nyctaginaceae
Also Known As Marvel of Peru
Bloom Season June - October
Native Range Tropical America
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Wet Soil
Uses Annual
Flower Border
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Foxglove

History

In 1787, Washington received a packet of foxglove seeds from the Rev. William Gordon, who wrote that "The gentlewoman who has favoured me with the seeds, is fond of the digitalis as a cure for the dropsy, & therefore has sent some of the seed: but from what I have been told, it is so violent & so little to be depended upon in a general way, that I should not choose to make trial of it."

Details

Wands of bell-shaped flowers ascend from a broad, woolly basal rosette. This common cottage garden flower has an important role in the manufacture of heart medicine.

Latin Name Digitalis purpurea
Family Plantaginaceae
Also Known As Lady's Glove
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Europe
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 2.5'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

French Marigold

History

George French listed French marigold seeds in his 1799 advertisement in the Fredericksburg Virginia Herald

Details

French marigolds are iconic garden plants with distinctly fragrant leaves. The flowers are single, semi-double, double, or crested in shades of yellow, orange, or red, and can also be bi-colored. When planted in the vegetable garden, marigolds can repel certain pests, such as white flies on tomatoes.

Latin Name Tagetes patula
Family Asteraceae
Bloom Season July - November
Native Range Mexico, Guatemala
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Clay Soil
Deer
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

French Striped Marigold

History

French marigolds were first featured in Curtis' Botanical Magazine in 1791.

Details

This dazzling plant blooms in masses of yellow flowers with deep burgundy stripes and is the star of the fall garden.

Latin Name Tagetes patula
Family Asteraceae
Bloom Season September - October
Native Range Mexico and Guatemala
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Clay Soil
Uses Annual
Edible
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Garden Phlox

History

In her garden at Prestwould, Lady Jean Skipwith grew garden phlox in 1793.

Details

Garden phlox has long been a staple of the perennial border, providing height and bright blooms at the back of the bed. The pink flowers are fragrant and attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.

Latin Name Phlox paniculata
Family Polemoniaceae
Also Known As Summer phlox
Tall phlox
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Clay Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Garlic

History

William Faris of Annapolis, Maryland was growing garlic in his garden in 1790.

Details

Garlic is a popular ingredient in many types of cooking. This bulbous plant is an onion relative with fleshy green leaves and umbels of pinkish white flowers.

Latin Name Allium sativum
Family Amaryllidaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Asia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Deer
Black Walnut
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

German Bearded Iris

History

William Faris had German irises in his garden in Annapolis, Maryland, in 1790.

Details

Irises add interesting texture to the spring garden with strappy leaves and unique flowers, nicely accenting the later blooming flower bulbs. They grow to form large clumps which are easily divided and spread around the garden.

Latin Name Iris germanica
Family Iridaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Eastern Mediterranean
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Drought
Deer
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Germander

History

Germander was used as edging in many colonial revival gardens, as well as for knot gardens during the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods.

Details

Germander is a small, shrubby herb with bright flowers and a distinctive fragrance. It works well as a short, clipped hedge.

Latin Name Teucrium chamaedrys
Family Lamiaceae
Also Known As Wall Germander
Bloom Season July - July
Native Range Europe to Caucasus
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Rabbit
Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Herb
Hedge

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Globe Amaranth

History

John Custis said in 1742, "I esteem it one of the prettiest things I ever saw."

Details

This magenta gem is well suited to the front of the border. Its lush blooms are attractive to butterflies, and they hold their color well when cut for use in dried arrangements.

Latin Name Gomphrena globosa
Family Amaranthaceae
Bloom Season June - October
Native Range Tropical America
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Clay Soil
Dry Soil
Drought
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Globe Artichoke

History

In September of 1794, Washington wrote to William Pearce to request artichoke seeds for Martha, and was growing them in the lower garden.

Details

Artichokes have large silvery green leaves that make them a striking addition to the garden. Their flower buds are traditionally used for culinary purposes, but if allowed to open offer large, brilliant purple flowers.

Latin Name Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus
Family Asteraceae
Bloom Season June - November
Native Range Chile, Ecuador, United States
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Flower Border
Vegetable
Ornamental
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Globe Candytuft

History

Introduced to cultivation in the 1600s, purple candytuft was mentioned by plantsman Bernard McMahon in his 1802 publication

Details

A mid-border plant, this pink or lavender flower can flop, but is an attractive addition to the spring garden.

Latin Name Iberis umbellata
Family Brassicaceae
Also Known As Garden Candytuft
Purple Candytuft
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Mediterranean
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1.5'
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Globe Thistle

History

John Custis of Williamsburg received globe [thistle] from his friend Peter Collinson in 1738.

Details

An unusual flower for the summer garden, these blue thistle-like blooms add a unique texture. If cut back after blooming, they will send up new flowers. They make excellent dried and cut flowers.

Latin Name Echinops ritro
Family Asteraceae
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Southeastern Europe
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2.5'
Tolerances Drought
Dry Soil
Rabbit
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Gloriosa Daisy

History

In 1714, at the beginning of the naturalistic gardening craze, this American native was introduced to European gardens.

Details

This large-flowered, cheerful plant is perfect for dry, difficult spots. It self-sows readily in variations of orange, yellow, and gold.

Latin Name Rudbeckia hirta
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Black-eyed Susan
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Central United States
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Golden Standard Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1760

Details

Golden Standard is a brilliant red and yellow broken tulip. Its vibrant flowers bring light to the middle of the border.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Golden Standard'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Gooseberry

History

Washington wrote to Edward Newenham in 1789, "I have just been returning my thanks for his Gooseberry plants to your friend Colonel Persse, who I perceive is a fond admirer of a Country life, as well as myself."

Details

This uncommon shrub produces tart green fruits in summer that are suitable for jams and desserts. They have many sharp thorns and some care should be used when working around them.

Latin Name Ribes uva-crispa
Family Grossulariaceae
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Europe, north Africa, and southeast Asia
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 4'
Tolerances Rabbit
Uses Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Gray Santolina

History

Santolina has been in use since the middle ages as a medicinal herb and is a staple of Colonial Revival gardens.

Details

Soft silvery foliage, which somewhat resembles French lavender, gives this plant its common name of lavender cotton. It is a good edging plant in sunny, well-drained spots. Santolina was commonly used medicinally and can be used to ward off insects.

Latin Name Santolina chamaecyparissus
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Lavender Cotton
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Western and Central Mediterranean
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Herb
Hedge
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Great Blue Lobelia

History

The plantsman John Bartram of Philadelphia offered Great Blue Lobelia in his catalog by 1770.

Details

This tall, late blooming perennial adds a pleasant blue to shady glades in the summer. Native to Virginia, it is often found along stream banks and in wetland areas. It self seeds enthusiastically.

Latin Name Lobelia siphilitica
Family Campanulaceae
Also Known As Indian-tobacco
Pukeweed
Eyebright
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Heavy Shade
Wet Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Halberd-leaf Rose Mallow

History

John Bartram listed this plant for sale in his catalog in 1770.

Details

One of the most cold tolerant hibiscuses, this plant has pale pink flowers with a red eye. It adds an interesting texture to the summer border.

Latin Name Hibiscus laevis
Family Malvaceae
Bloom Season August - September
Native Range Eastern and central United States
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Wet Soil
Uses Water Plant
Rain Garden
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Hardy cyclamen

History

While we have very few records of plants Washington was growing in his Upper Garden, by the end of the eighteenth century cyclamen were being planted in other gardens in Virginia, such as Lady Jean Skipwith’s garden at Prestwould Plantation in Mecklenburg County, Virginia.

Details

Small pinkish-white flowers emerge from corms in September, followed by mottled green and silver ivy-shaped leaves, adding an unexpected touch of color to the fall woodland garden.

Latin Name Cyclamen hederifolium
Family Primulaceae
Also Known As Persian violet, sowbread
Native Range Western Asia, southern Europe
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Heliotrope

History

Jefferson said of this plant, "To be sowed in spring. A delicious flower, but I suspect it must be planted in boxes and kept in the house in winter. The smell rewards the care."

Details

A fragrant addition to your summer border, this sturdy plant prefers well-drained soil and afternoon shade in the southern garden.

Latin Name Heliotropium arborescens
Family Boraginaceae
Bloom Season August - October
Native Range Peru
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Annual

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Helmar Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1735

Details

Helmar is a yellow and red tulip. Its red flames mimic the pattern of some of the broken tulips of the tulip mania.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Helmar'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Hemp

History

George Washington’s initial interest in hemp was as a cash crop, but he decided to grow it to meet the needs of his own plantation. Hemp was used at Mount Vernon for rope, thread for sewing sacks, canvas, and for repairing the seine nets used at the fisheries. Washington’s diaries and farm reports indicate that hemp grew at all five farms which made up Mount Vernon (Mansion House, River Farm, Dogue Run Farm, Muddy Hole Farm, and Union Farm).

Details

Hemp is originally from central Asia, and has been cultivated throughout history as a source of fiber, seed, oil, and medicine.

Latin Name Cannabis sativa
Family Cannabaceae
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Eastern Asia
Max Height 10'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Crop
Herb

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Hollyhock

History

In 1790 in Annapolis, William Faris was growing them in his garden.

Details

Hollyhocks are old-fashioned cottage garden favorites for their height and cheerful flowers in a wide range of colors. Most require staking to support their heavy stems.

Latin Name Alcea rosea
Family Malvaceae
Bloom Season June - August
Native Range Southwestern Asia and the Balkans
Max Height 8'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border
Annual
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Honesty

History

This was on of the first European flowers introduced to the colonies, where it was valued for its edible roots and ornamental seedpods. Thomas Jefferson was growing these in his garden as early as 1767.

Details

Honesty is an old fashioned plant with briliant pink flowers that give way to paper-thin silvery seedpods, hence its many common names.

Latin Name Lunaria annua
Family Brassicaceae
Also Known As Silver Dollar Plant
Money Plant
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Central and southern Europe
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Honeysuckle

History

George Washington wrote in his diary in March of 1785, "Planted the Scarlet or French honey suckle (as my Gardner calls it, & which he says blows all the Summer) at each Column of my covered ways—as also against the circular walls between the Store house &ca. and the two new necessaries."

Details

A woody, twining vine, honeysuckle needs some structure to support itself. It blooms nearly all summer and is attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. It is well-suited for arbors, pergolas, and fences.

Latin Name Lonicera sempervirens
Family Caprifoliaceae
Also Known As Trumpet Honeysuckle
Coral Honeysuckle
Bloom Season May - November
Native Range Southeastern United States
Max Height 15'
Max Spread 6'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Clay Soil
Deer
Uses Ornamental
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Hoop Petticoat Daffodil

History

Date of Introduction: 1629

Details

The Hoop Petticoat is one of the smallest daffodils grown at Mount Vernon and is often crowded towards the front of the border for ease of viewing. It has unique flowers with large bells and slender, petite petals.

Latin Name Narcissus bulbocodium 'Golden Bells'
Family Amaryllidaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Southern Europe and northern Africa
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Horseradish

History

Horseradish was noted in Washington's gardener's report in May of 1798.

Details

Horseradish is a large spreading vegetable, used primarily for its pungent roots. It should be given a confined space, as it spreads rapidly if left unchecked.

Latin Name Armoracia rusticana
Family Brassicaceae
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Southeastern Europe
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Hydrangea

History

Washington first purchased hydrangeas from John Bartram in 1792 to plant on the Bowling Green.

Details

This versatile hydrangea tolerates a wide variety of conditions and is ideal for borders or natural areas. It benefits from an annual pruning in late winter to prevent the heavy blooms from flopping.

Latin Name Hydrangea arborescens
Family Hydrangeaceae
Also Known As Smooth Hydrangea
Sevenbark
Bloom Season June - September
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Clay Soil
Dry Soil
Wet Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Jatropha

History

Washington planted jatropha in 1785 and knew of its purgative qualities.

Details

This large tropical plant is used for various medicinal and economic purposes. The oil from the nuts is currently being studied as a potential source for biodiesel.

Latin Name Jatropha curcas
Family Euphorbiaceae
Also Known As Physic Nut
Barbados Nut
Native Range Tropical America
Max Height 20'
Max Spread 15'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Hedge

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Jerusalem Artichoke

History

George Washington was growing Jerusalem artichokes at his Muddy Hole farm.

Details

Jerusalem artichoke is a perennial sunflower relative that produces a profusion of bright yellow flowers atop ten foot stalks. It is valued for its edible tubers, which resemble the flavor of water chestnuts.

Latin Name Helianthus tuberosus
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Sunroot
Sunchoke
Bloom Season August - September
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 10'
Max Spread 5'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Edible
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Joe Pye Weed

History

Joe Pye weed was introduced to Europe by 1640, and was listed in the plant collector, John Bartram's, catalog by 1793.

Details

This tall plant is crowned with purple-pink flowers in the late summer. It is an American native and tolerates a wide variety of environmental conditions. Its height and bloom time can be controlled by by pruning it back by half when it reaches about two to three feet.

Latin Name Eutrochium maculatum
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Spotted Joe Pye Weed
Purple Boneset
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Clay Soil
Wet Soil
Drought
Deer
Uses Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Johnny Jump-Up

History

The first known documented citation of this plant is by John Lawson in History of Carolina in 1718.

Details

This delightful little flower is a harbinger of spring in many gardens, but also adds charm to a fall or winter garden depending on your region. The flowers are edible and can be used to wonderful effect on cakes and in salads.

Latin Name Viola tricolor
Family Violaceae
Also Known As Heart's Ease
Love-in-idleness
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Europe
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Uses Annual
Flower Border
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Jospeh's Coat

History

Most species were introduced from the East Indies to Britain around 1600 and several species were common in early American gardens. John Custis of Williamsburg received these in 1742 from England.

Details

This voluptuous annual is grown for its showy multicolored foliage in shades of green, yellow, and red.

Latin Name Amaranthus tricolor
Family Amaranthaceae
Also Known As Edible Amaranth
Native Range Africa, Indochina
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Annual
Flower Border
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Kale

History

George Washington received "kail" seeds from Tobias Lear sent from Glasgow, Scotland in 1794.

Details

Kale is a popular leafy green that can be used cooked or in salads. It is also used as an ornamental plant in fall gardens. Historically, coarser types have been used as animal fodder.

Latin Name Brassica oleracea (Acephala)
Family Brassicaceae
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1.5'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Keizerskroon Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1750

Details

Keizerskroon is a bold yellow and red tulip that has a strong presence in the spring garden at Mount Vernon. Its colorful flowers are well suited for the middle of the border.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Keizerskroon'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.25'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Kentucky Coffeetree

History

Washington records in his diary on April 13, 1785 that he "Planted & Sowed in boxes placed in front of the Green House" "...Eight Nuts from a tree called the Kentucke Coffee tree; these had been steeped 48 hours."

Details

This large, suckering tree produces fragrant showy flowers, followed by a bean-like seedpod and was used in times of scarcity to make a coffee-like beverage. The seeds are very toxic before roasting and should never be eaten raw.

Latin Name Gymnocladus dioicus
Family Fabaceae
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Eastern and Central North America
Max Height 80'
Max Spread 55'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Drought
Uses Shade Tree
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Key Lime

History

During his 1797 visit to Mount Vernon, Amariah Frost observed the curiosities of figs, raisins, limes, and oranges.

Details

Key limes are small citrus trees with highly fragrant white blossoms. They produce many delightful fruits which are excellent for cooking. In this region, they are best grown in pots so that they can be moved in and out as the temperatures dictate.

Latin Name Citrus x aurantiifolia
Family Rutaceae
Also Known As Bartender's Lime
Native Range Southeast Asia
Max Height 12'
Max Spread 8'
Uses Edible
Flowering Tree
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Lac van Rijn Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1620

Details

Lac van Rijn has striking white and deep pink flowers that add dramatic appeal to the spring garden.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Lac van Rijn'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.25'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Lady Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1607

Details

This sweet white and pink tulip is an elegant mid-border charmer. The white and pink petals open to reveal a nearly pure white interior.

Latin Name Tulipa clusiana
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Lamb's Ears

History

Plantsman John Bartram listed lamb's ears for sale in his catalog from 1771 to 1809.

Details

This silver-leafed groundcover does best in well-drained soil, but tolerates adverse conditions. Its purple flowers are attractive to honeybees and bumblebees.

Latin Name Stachys byzantina
Family Lamiaceae
Also Known As Woolly Hedgenettle
Bloom Season May - July
Native Range Central Turkey, Iran, and the Caucasus
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Drought
Dry Soil
Black Walnut
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Air Pollution
Uses Flower Border
Ground Cover

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Lantana

History

Lady Jean Skipwith grew lantana in her garden at Prestwould in 1793.

Details

Lantana is a colorful, shrubby annual with masses of flowers in shades of orange, yellow, and pink. Its leaves give off a distinctive smell and it produces bluish-black seeds. Lantana is commonly used as a bedding plant because of its long bloom season.

Latin Name Lantana camara
Family Verbenaceae
Also Known As Big-sage
Red-sage
Tickberry
Bloom Season July - November
Native Range Tropical America
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Larkspur

History

This is one of the few flowers mentioned in George Washington's letters. William Gordon remarks in a letter from September of 1787 that he has "sent you three quarters of a pound of larkspur to make the garden gay."

Details

A favorite in the Mount Vernon gardens, this annual reseeds readily. Its pink, blue, and white flowers add height to the spring border.

Latin Name Consolida ajacis
Family Ranunculaceae
Also Known As Doubtful knight's spur
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Mediterranean
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Leeks

History

In the March 10, 1798 gardener's report, Washington's gardener mentions sowing leek seeds.

Details

Leeks are an onion relative with strappy green leaves which an edible stalk which is usually blanched.

Latin Name Allium ampeloprasum
Family Amaryllidaceae
Bloom Season June - June
Native Range Northern Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, southern North America, Caribbean, South America
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Deer
Black Walnut
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Lemon

History

Washington received a lemon tree in 1784 from Margaret Tilghman Carroll of Baltimore.

Details

As with the other tropicals grown at Mount Vernon, the lemons are grown in pots so that they can be moved into a greenhouse for the winter.

Latin Name Citrus limon
Family Rutaceae
Native Range Asia
Max Height 20'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Edible
Flowering Tree
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Lemon Balm

History

Lemon balm was a valuable herb in the fledgling American colonies and was found in the medicinal gardens at Bethabara in 1761.

Details

Lemon balm is a spreading herb with a strong citrusy fragrance. It can be used for teas and cooking and is frequently used for essential oil. Gardeners should be aware that it can be aggressive and should be carefully contained.

Latin Name Melissa officinalis
Family Lamiaceae
Also Known As Balm
Common Balm
Balm Mint
Bloom Season June - August
Native Range Southern Europe, Iran, Central Asia
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Edible
Herb
Ground Cover

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Lettuce

History

In April of 1786, Peter Crouwells and Co. of Philadelphia advertised in the Virginia Journal several different varieties of lettuce seed for sale.

Details

Lettuce is a cool season leafy vegetable that is most frequently used in salads. Its leaves come in a variety of colors, from green to red to splotchy.

Latin Name Lactuca sativa
Family Asteraceae
Native Range Mediterranean to Siberia
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 1'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Leucothoe

History

John Bartram recorded coastal doghobble in his 1792 nursery list.

Details

This glossy-leafed shade loving shrub has a graceful arching habit and panicles of white flowers in the late spring.

Latin Name Leucothoe axillaris
Family Ericaceae
Also Known As Dog-hobble
Coast Leucothoe
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Southeastern United States
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 5'
Uses Hedge

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Lilac

History

Washington planted a number of lilacs around his home.

Details

Large fragrant bouquets of purple flowers make this shrub the queen of spring in the northern garden.

Latin Name Syringa vulgaris
Family Oleaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Southeastern Europe
Max Height 16'
Max Spread 12'
Tolerances Rabbit
Deer
Clay Soil
Uses Hedge
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Live Oak

History

George Washington received a box of live oak plants and acorns from Mr. Josiah Parker of Norfolk, Virginia in March of 1785.

Details

This iconic evergreen tree of the south forms a wide spreading canopy and is often draped with Spanish moss. They are extremely resilient, which allows them to survive the severe weather patterns of the southern part of the country.

Latin Name Quercus virginiana
Family Fagaceae
Also Known As Virginia Live Oak
Southern Live Oak
Native Range Southeastern United States, Mexico
Max Height 80'
Max Spread 100'
Uses Shade Tree
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Lombardy Poplar

History

On October 14, 1792, Washington instructed his farm manager, Anthony Whitting, to have the gardeners "plant cuttings of the Weeping Willow, yellow willow, or Lombardy Poplar" to create living fences. The shrinking availabiliy of timber with which to make rail fences caused him to turn to live hedges, which could be started with fast-growing Lombardy poplar and willows, while slower growing cedars and locusts would eventually take over. Unfortunately, and with great disappointment, he never succeeded due to various setbacks.

Details

Lombardy poplar is best suited as a street tree or short-lived privacy screen. It is very fast-growing to approximately 40 feet.

Latin Name Populus nigra 'Italica'
Family Salicaceae
Also Known As Black Poplar
Bloom Season March - April
Native Range Europe, northern Africa, western Asia
Max Height 50'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Street Tree
Hedge

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Long Island Cheese Pumpkin

History

In May of 1788, Washington writes of planting pumpkins at Muddy Hole.

Details

The Long Island Cheese pumpkin is an excellent eating pumpkin and is well-suited for making pies. It is a beautiful tan pumpkin with deep lobes that grows on huge, sprawling vines.

Latin Name Cucurbita moschata
Family Cucurbitaceae
Native Range South and Central America
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Annual
Edible
Crop
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Love-in-a-Mist

History

Love-in-a-Mist was a common garden flower in Europe by the 16th century and had made its way to the colonies by the 18th century. It was listed on a seed order placed by Henry Middleton of South Carolina in 1800.

Details

This feathery flower blooms in shades of blue, white, and pink, and reseeds easily, but does not transplant well. It is noted for its interesting seedpods.

Latin Name Nigella damascena
Family Ranunculaceae
Also Known As Ragged Lady
Devil in the Bush
Bloom Season June - July
Native Range Southern Europe and northern Africa
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1.5'
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Love-Lies-Bleeding

History

Incredibly long-blooming and excellent for drying, they have been grown in the American garden since the 1700s.

Details

Love-lies-bleeding is an elegant cottage garden plant with cascading crimson flowers that are excellent for the summer border and as a cut flower.

Latin Name Amaranthus caudatus
Family Amaranthaceae
Also Known As Tassel Flower
Foxtail Amaranth
Bloom Season July - October
Native Range Africa, India, and Peru
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Maltese Cross

History

John Bartram of Philadelphia offered Maltese Cross in his 1770 catalog.

Details

Bright orange flowers offer a sharp contrast to the pinks and purples that proliferate in the early summer border. Maltese cross reseeds fairly easily, but can be choked out by more aggressive perennials.

Latin Name Lychnis chalcedonica
Family Caryophyllaceae
Also Known As Burning Love
Jerusalem Cross
Nonesuch
Meadow Campion
Bloom Season June - July
Native Range Asia
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Mangelwurzel

History

In April of 1788, Washington planted Root of Scarcity (mangelwurzels) in his vineyard enclosure.

Details

Mangelwurzels are incredibly large beets, sometimes over a foot long. They have typical red and green foliage, but their roots can weigh as much as 10 lbs.

Latin Name Beta vulgaris ssp. vulgaris
Family Amaranthaceae
Also Known As Mangold
Fodder beet
Mangel beet
Native Range Europe
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1'

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Maximus Daffodil

History

Date of introduction: 1576

Details

Maximus is a standard among daffodils for its height and large yellow blooms. It does well in the middle of the border where it can be easily seen.

Latin Name Narcissus hispanicus 'Maximus'
Family Amaryllidaceae
Also Known As Trumpet Major
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Europe, central Asia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Mock Orange

History

Washington planted a mock orange near the north necessary in 1785.

Details

Mock oranges are common in older gardens, although they are regaining popularity with the introduction of dwarf and double-flowering cultivars. Richly fragrant, they offer a profusion of star-shaped flowers with yellow centers.

Latin Name Philadelphus coronarius
Family Hydrangeaceae
Also Known As English Dogwood
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Southern Europe
Max Height 8'
Max Spread 8'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Flower Border
Hedge

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Monkshood

History

Lady Jean Skipwith enjoyed this purple flower in her Virginia garden in 1793.

Details

This late blooming perennial adds height and colorful spires to the end of summer shade garden. It prefers afternoon shade in the southern garden, but will tolerate sun further north.

Latin Name Aconitum napellus
Family Ranunculaceae
Also Known As Queen of All Poisons
Wolf's Bane
Aconite
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Western and central Europe
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Muscadine Grape

History

Throughout his lifetime, Washington experimented with a large variety of grape plants from different regions.

Details

This southern grape must be harshly pruned to keep it in check and producing vigorously. They are best used as table grapes, or for jams and jellies. If left unattended, it will rapidly take over your garden.

Latin Name Vitis rotundifolia
Family Vitaceae
Native Range Southeastern and southcentral United States
Max Height 100'
Max Spread 100'
Tolerances Dry Soil
Erosion
Uses Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Muskmelon

History

Washington thanks Charles Cotesworth Pinckney for some melon seeds that he had sent to Mrs. Washington in 1799.

Details

Muskmelons are a trailing, vining plant with small yellow flowers which often performs better when grown on a trellis. They produce fruit in a wide variety of shapes and colors. Their fruits are frequently fragrant.

Latin Name Cucumis melo
Family Cucurbitaceae
Native Range Middle East
Max Height 9'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Mustard Greens

History

Washington received an invoice from Robert Cary & Company in March of 1760 regarding an order for 12 lb. of best mustard seed.

Details

Mustard produces a leafy green that can be used for fresh eating, or as a cooked vegetable. It produces pretty yellow flowers that are attractive to pollinators.

Latin Name Brassica juncea
Family Brassicaceae
Also Known As Brown Mustard
Chinese Mustard
Native Range Russia to central Asia
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1.5'
Uses Edible
Crop
Vegetable
Annual

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Nasturtium

History

The Spanish brought nasturtiums to Europe from South America and they have been cultivated as a garden plant ever since. Minton Collins of Virginia offered nasturtium seeds for sale in the Virginia Gazette in 1793.

Details

A sprawling annual herb, nasturtiums have long been a charming kitchen garden plant. Their flowers, leaves, and seeds are all edible, and add a peppery bite to salads.

Latin Name Tropaeolum majus
Family Tropaeolaceae
Also Known As Indian Cress
Monks Cress
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range South and Central America
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Annual
Edible
Flower Border
Herb

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

New England Aster

Details

The pink and purple flowers of asters add color and height to the late summer garden. Due to their spreading habit they will naturalize when planted in the garden. A mid-spring trim will delay bloom time and help keep them restrained.

Latin Name Symphyotrichum novae-angliae
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Michaelmas Daisy
Bloom Season August - October
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 4'
Tolerances Clay Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

New York Ironweed

History

John Bartram of Philadelphia offered New York Ironweed for sale in his catalog between 1771 and 1809.

Details

This towering perennial is crowned with clusters of brilliant purple flowers. The size can be kept in check by a mid-spring pruning.

Latin Name Vernonia noveboracensis
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Vein-leaf Hawkweed
Bloom Season August - October
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Clay Soil
Wet Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Nora Barlow Columbine

History

This type of columbine has been recorded in herbals since the 17th century.

Details

A fluffier flower sets this columbine apart from the simpler native type. It has cheerful magenta and white flowers on tall stems and reseeds readily.

Latin Name Aquilegia vulgaris var. stellata 'Nora Barlow'
Family Ranunculaceae
Also Known As Common Columbine
Granny's Nightcap
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Europe
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Rabbit
Deer
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Obedient Plant

History

The famous plantsman John Bartram sold obedient plant in his catalog by 1770.

Details

This tall Virginia native has spires of bright pink flowers and can be seen growing along waterways and woodland trails. It makes an excellent addition the back of the border, but be prepared for some spreading. It does not earn its name by staying in one place, but due to the ability to manipulate the flowers in different directions.

Latin Name Physostegia virginiana
Family Lamiaceae
Also Known As False Dragonhead
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range North America
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Clay Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Odorus Flore Pleno Daffodil

History

Date of introduction: 1601

Details

Odorus Flore Pleno is a medium to small daffodil with double yellow flowers. It is strongly fragrant.

Latin Name Narcissus odorus flore pleno
Family Amaryllidaceae
Also Known As Queen Anne's Double Jonquil
Double Campernelle
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Southern Europe and northern Africa
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Okra

History

Lady Jean Skipwith of Prestwould was growing okra in her garden in 1793.

Details

Okra is a tall plant with cheerful yellow flowers that are reminiscent of hibiscus blossoms. They produce green seedpods that are best harvested when they are 2 to 3 inches long.

Latin Name Abelmoschus esculentus
Family Malvaceae
Also Known As Ladies' Fingers
Ochro
Native Range Old World Tropics
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 5'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Old Blush Rose

History

The Old Blush rose is one of the earliest China roses to make it into European cultivation and was recorded in Denmark in 1752.

Details

Old Blush is lightly fragrant with semi-double pink flowers. It blooms throughout the season and can bloom at Mount Vernon well into December.

Latin Name Rosa chinensis 'Old Blush'
Family Rosaceae
Also Known As Parson's Pink China
Old China Monthly
Bloom Season May - November
Native Range Eastern Asia
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 6'

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Oleander

History

Two oleander plants were ordered in February of 1792 from General Moultrie of South Carolina.

Details

This large subtropical plant has brilliant pink flowers which bloom through summer in the Mount Vernon gardens.

Latin Name Nerium oleander
Family Apocynaceae
Also Known As Nerium
Native Range Europe, Asia
Max Height 8'
Max Spread 5'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Onion

History

Washington's gardener records planting, weeding, and harvesting onions in his garden report in the summer of 1798.

Details

Onions are commonly planted in the fall for a spring harvest. Red and yellow types are available to grow.

Latin Name Allium cepa
Family Amaryllidaceae
Bloom Season May - June
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Deer
Black Walnut
Rabbit
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Orange

History

Washington notes in his diary in 1785 that he received "a few young trees of the Civil or sower oranges in a box."

Details

Seville oranges are a small to medium citrus tree which produce bitter, unpleasant tasting oranges.

Latin Name Citrus x aurantium
Family Rutaceae
Also Known As Seville Orange
Bitter Orange
Native Range Southeast Asia
Max Height 30'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Edible
Flowering Tree
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Oregano

History

John Bartram was offering oregano for sale between 1771 and 1809.

Details

Oregano is a compact slow-spreading herb that is popularly used in cooking. It is very fragrant and attractive to bees and butterflies.

Latin Name Origanum vulgare
Family Lamiaceae
Bloom Season July - October
Native Range Europe, Asia
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Erosion
Uses Herb
Edible
Ground Cover
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Oriental Poppy

History

John Bartram, the Philadelphia plantsman, offered oriental poppies for sale in 1770.

Details

Cheerful red flowers make this late spring to early summer perennial a showstopper. It can be difficult to get started, but once established,poppies are a reliable old-fashioned favorite.

Latin Name Papaver orientale
Family Papaveraceae
Bloom Season June - June
Native Range Caucasus, northeastern Turkey, northern Iran
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Palmetto

History

In 1785, William Blake of Charleston, SC sent seeds and plants to Mount Vernon, where they were like planted in the Botanic Garden.

Details

Palmettos are the most northern palm to grow in the United States. They were a common food source for southern Native American tribes.

Latin Name Sabal palmetto
Family Arecaceae
Also Known As Cabbage Palmetto
Carolina Palmetto
Native Range Southern United States, Caribbean
Max Height 40'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Parsnips

History

Washington had his enslaved workers plant parsnips with carrots as a field crop to produce livestock feed, as well as in the gardens to use for human consumption.

Details

Parsnips are a large root vegetable which somewhat resemble white carrots and can be used in similar ways. Just like the wild parsnip, cultivated plants attract a range of pollinators and are host plants for several moths and butterflies, including swallowtails. Handling the plants should be done with care, as they can cause severe skin irritation- gloves and long sleeves are recommended while harvesting.

Latin Name Pastinaca sativa
Family Apiaceae
Native Range Eurasia
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Pawpaw

History

George Washington wrote in his diary on March 7th, 1785 that he, "Planted all my Cedars, all my Papaw, and two Honey locust Trees in my Shrubberies and two of the latter in my groves--one at each 'side' of the House and a large Holly tree on the Point going to the Sein landing."

Details

This small, colonizing tree produces the largest edible fruit indigenous to the United States. It has dark maroon flowers in the early spring which are pollinated by flies.

Latin Name Asimina triloba
Family Annonaceae
Also Known As Papaw
West Virginia Banana
Poor Man's Banana
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Eastern, southern, and midwestern United States
Max Height 30'
Max Spread 30'
Tolerances Wet Soil
Uses Edible
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Peach

History

George Washington was fond of peaches and mentions them often, and Martha Washington used them to make Genoa paste.

Details

Peaches are wide fast growing trees that require careful pruning and maintenance in order to produce good quality fruit. Their vibrant pink flowers in spring are charming and attractive to pollinators.

Latin Name Prunus persica
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Northwestern China
Max Height 25'
Max Spread 25'
Uses Edible
Flowering Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Pear

History

In 1785 Washington received many varieties of pears from his neighbors that had been developed in Europe.

Details

Like other fruit trees, pears require a good deal of maintenance in order to perform well. Many require a chilling period to fully ripen and are good for use in baking and cidermaking.

Latin Name Pyrus communis
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Eastern Europe and Southwest Asia
Max Height 30'
Max Spread 25'
Uses Edible
Flowering Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Peas

History

George Washington grew peas at most of his farms.

Details

Peas are tender spring vegetable on short vines. They often have large showy flowers in colors like pink and white. The pods can range in color from purple to green. Peas are best direct sown outdoors in the early months of spring, and if you have a long, cool fall, a second crop can be grown.

Latin Name Pisum sativum
Family Fabaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Mediterranean
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Peony

History

John Bartram of Philadelphia lists peonies in his 1770 catalog.

Details

Herbaceous, shrub-like plants bear single or double flowers in shades of pink and cream. They are an old-fashioned favorite in East Coast gardens.

Latin Name Paeonia sp.
Family Paeoniaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Asia, Europe
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Persian Fritillary

History

Introduced to English gardens in the 16th century, Persian lilies emigrated to the colonies by the end of the 18th century.

Details

This tall spring bulb is crowned by a spike of maroon flowers above gray-green foliage and makes a striking addition to the spring garden. The bulb itself is strongly odoriferous which prevents the depredations of rodents.

Latin Name Fritillaria persica
Family Liliaceae
Also Known As Persian Lily
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Middle East
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Deer
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Persian Lilac

History

Washington obtained two of these from John Bartram's nursery in 1792.

Details

The Persian lilac is much more delicate and heat resistant than the common lilac, with a lighter fragrance and smaller flowers.

Latin Name Syringa x persica
Family Oleaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Garden origin
Max Height 8'
Max Spread 10'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Hedge
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Persimmon

History

George Washington's loyalist friend and neighbor Jonathon Boucher wrote to him in 1784 regarding the newly formed American government, "Many of the Speculations which the late unsettled Times have given Birth to, resemble your Persimmons before the Frost: They are fair to the Eye & specious; but really disgusting & dangerous."

Details

Persimmons are an unusual American fruit that can colonize in abandoned fields and open woods. Female trees bear astringent orange fruits that become fully ripe after a frost.

Latin Name Diospyros virginiana
Family Ebenaceae
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Eastern and midwestern United States
Max Height 60'
Max Spread 35'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Clay Soil
Drought
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Edible
Rain Garden
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Pheasant's Eye Daffodil

History

Date of introduction: 1600

Details

The Pheasant's Eye daffodil is a clear white daffodil featuring a yellow cup with a red ring. It is one of the later blooming daffodils and it does best towards the middle of the border.

Latin Name Narcissus poeticus
Family Amaryllidaceae
Also Known As Poet's narcissus
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Spain to Balkans
Max Height 1.25'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Pincushion Flower

History

In 1736, Scabiosa was noted in the Virginia garden of William Byrd II of Westover.

Details

These airy, colorful flowers are mildly fragrant and a pleasant addition to the flower border.

Latin Name Scabiosa atropurpurea
Family Caprifoliaceae
Also Known As Sweet Scabious
Bloom Season May - September
Native Range Mediterranean
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Plum

History

Washington was experimenting with planting and grafting plums as early as 1763. Martha Washington's cookbook has many recipes for jellies, pastes, and preserves containing plums.

Details

Plums have a sprawling, suckering growth habit and therefore require judicious pruning.

Latin Name Prunus domestica
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Europe, Asia, and North America
Max Height 25'
Max Spread 25'
Uses Edible
Flowering Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Pole Bean

History

George Washington grew many acres of several varieties of beans, and advocated planting the pole beans with corn for support. In a letter to his farm manager, William Pearce, in May of 1785, he wrote " I have heard much of the white (homony) Bean as being very productive, and a ready sale: suppose you were to devote an Acre of Corn ground to this purpose, to see what the yield would be: or, if they would do without something to run upon, & support them, to plant an acre or two without Corn, in No. 6 at Union farm..."

Details

Pole beans, such as kidney and butter or lima beans, produce long vines that do best when supported on some type of trellis. They are prolific growers and can easily cover a trellis in the course of a season while producing many beans which can be eaten fresh or dried.

Latin Name Phaseolus vulgaris
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Runner bean
Snap bean
Green bean
String bean
Max Height 15'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Pole Lima Bean

History

George Washington sent a letter to Anthony Whitting in February of 1793 regarding lima beans that Mrs. Washington wanted the gardener to plant.

Details

Pole lima beans are vigorous plants that do best when grown on trellises. They are fast growing and produce beans which can be used fresh or dried.

Latin Name Phaseolus lunatus
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Butter bean
Native Range South America
Max Height 10'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Pomegranate

History

George Washington ordered a pomegranate from John Bartram in 1792.

Details

This large shrub boasts vibrant orange flowers in the summer which ripen into large orange-red fruits.

Latin Name Punica granatum
Family Lythraceae
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Mediterranean to the Himalayas
Max Height 20'
Max Spread 15'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Edible
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Potato

History

George Washington planted potatoes at many of his farms.

Details

Potatoes are a tomato relative and are often mistaken for them, as their foliage is somewhat similar in appearance. They are an agricultural staple that ranks with wheat and rice as among the most important in the world. Their South American origin is often obscured by their fame as a mainstay crop in Ireland. Potato tubers come in many colors; including yellow, brown, pink, red, and purple.

Latin Name Solanum tuberosum
Family Solanaceae
Native Range South America
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Rabbit
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Pummelo

History

Records show that in 1789 Margaret Tilghman Carroll sent Washington two pummelos, along with a collection of other tropicals for his greenhouse.

Details

This citrus tree produces fragrant flowers followed by large fruits which are larger and sweeter than a grapefruit.

Latin Name Citrus maxima
Family Rutaceae
Also Known As Shaddock
Pamplemousse
Pomelo
Native Range Polynesia
Max Height 20'
Max Spread 18'
Uses Edible
Flowering Tree
Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Purple Coneflower

History

Coneflowers have been a garden favorite since the late 17th century, after it was collected from Virginia for European gardens in 1678.

Details

This native perennial has vibrant magenta flowers which add contrast to the overwhelming yellows and reds of the summer garden. The showy daisy-like flowers borne on stiff stems attract goldfinches if left to go to seed.

Latin Name Echinacea purpurea
Family Asteraceae
Bloom Season June - August
Native Range North America
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Clay Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Radish

History

According to Washington's gardener's report, radishes were grown in the upper and lower gardens in 1798 (that's right, folks- 11 years before Jefferson!).

Details

Radishes are a root vegetable that add a pleasant bite (if you like that kind of thing) to salads. They come in a variety of colors including black, purple, red, and white. They are useful as a winter cover or forage crop. Radishes are incredibly easy to grow, with high germination rates and a fast time to harvest.

Latin Name Raphanus sativus
Family Brassicaceae
Native Range Southeast Asia
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Raspberry

History

Washington received twelve raspberry plants from William Hamilton of Pennsylvania in March of 1792.

Details

Raspberries are a sprawling thorny plant which benefit from a large growing area and the removal of older canes. They produce their first crop of fruit in May and June, and a later crop in August.

Latin Name Rubus idaeus
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season April - July
Native Range Europe, Northern Asia
Max Height 9'
Max Spread 9'
Uses Edible
Hedge

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Red Currant

History

In 1794 his secretary, Tobias Lear, sent Washington several currant bushes.

Details

Red currants are a small tart fruit best harvested in June. They prefer well-drained soils as well as cool summer climates.

Latin Name Ribes rubrum
Family Grossulariaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Europe, Northern Asia
Max Height 9'
Max Spread 5'
Tolerances Rabbit
Uses Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Red Hue Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1700

Details

Red Hue is a unique tulip, featuring pointed red petals with green centers.

Latin Name Tulipa viridiflora 'Red Hue'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.25'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Rhododendron

History

George Washington received rhododendron plants from William Hamilton in March of 1792.

Details

The rhododendron is an evergreen plant with large, lush pinkish purple blossoms in the spring.

Latin Name Rhododenron catawbiense 'Roseum Elegans'
Family Ericaceae
Also Known As Catawba Rosebay
Mountain Rosebay
Purple Rhododendron
Rosebay
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 8'
Max Spread 8'
Uses Hedge
Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Rhubarb

History

George Washington planted rhubarb seed in the Botanical Garden in April of 1788.

Details

Rhubarb is an old-fashioned vegetable, grown for its brilliant red stems which are often used in pies and desserts. While its stems are noted for their culinary qualities, its leaves are poisonous and must be removed before cooking.

Latin Name Rheum x hybridum
Family Polygonaceae
Bloom Season May - July
Native Range Asia
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Rabbit
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Roman Hyacinth

History

Jefferson note the hyacinth flowering in his garden diary in April of 1766.

Details

This old-fashioned hyacinth has a sparser, more delicate flower than the modern types, but it is much more likely to stick around in the garden. It resists flopping under its own weight and is known to naturalize.

Latin Name Hyancinthus orientalis var. albulus
Family Asparagaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Eastern Mediterranean
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Rosa Mundi Rose

History

Rosa Mundi was introduced during the 16th century. It was known in Virginia by 1742, when Peter Collinson sent plants to John Custis of Williamsburg.

Details

Rosa Mundi is a compact rose which features a profusion of bright striped flowers in the spring. The flowers are fragrant, and this old hardy rose shrugs off most pest problems, making them an easy favorite in the garden.

Latin Name Rosa gallica var. officinalis 'Versicolor'
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season May - June
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Rose Campion

History

Thomas Jefferson noted in his garden book that the rose campion were blooming in 1767 at Shadwell, his childhood home.

Details

Rose campion features soft silvery mounds of foliage graced with stalks of stunning pink or white flowers in the late spring and early summer. This short-lived perennial or biennial self-seeds readily, forming large colonies if left unchecked.

Latin Name Lychnis coronaria
Family Caryophyllaceae
Also Known As Bloody William
Mullein-pink
Bloom Season May - July
Native Range Southeastern Europe
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Rose Mallow

History

John Bartram sent seeds of this hibiscus to England in the mid 1700s.

Details

Shining white flowers are attractive to pollinators and light up the garden. This type of hibiscus is fairly hardy in northern regions.

Latin Name Hibiscus moscheutos
Family Malvaceae
Also Known As Swamp Rose Mallow
Eastern Rose Mallow
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Southern and Eastern United States
Max Height 7'
Max Spread 4'
Tolerances Wet Soil
Uses Rain Garden
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Rosemary

History

Rosemary has been a significant herb for centuries and was used in the middle ages for wedding ceremonies.

Details

Rosemary is a fragrant evergreen shrub which is frequently used in cooking. Its pale blue flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.

Latin Name Rosmarinus officinalis
Family Lamiaceae
Bloom Season June - July
Native Range Africa, Europe, western Asia
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 4'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Uses Edible
Herb

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Rutabaga

History

George Washington wrote in March of 1788, "I causd to be sown a bed of Reynold's Turnip rooted Cabbages for the purpose of raising plants to put in my Corn Rows." The phrase "Turnip rooted Cabbages" was commonly used to refer to rutabagas.

Details

Rutabagas are a cool season root vegetable which can also be used as a fall cover crop. The large root is purple and white and the leaves are usually bluish-green. It can be boiled, baked, roasted, or mashed, as well as eaten raw in salads.

Latin Name Brassica napus
Family Brassicaceae
Native Range Russia
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sage

History

Sage was an important kitchen herb and featured in the gardens of many of Washington's contemporaries, including the Moravians at Bethabara and Thomas Jefferson.

Details

Sage is a woody subshrub with silvery green leaves and pale purple flowers that are attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. It does best in well-drained, sunny locations. For centuries, sage has been a popular herb for cooking, and is also used as an essential oil.

Latin Name Salvia officinalis
Family Lamiaceae
Bloom Season June - June
Native Range Mediterranean and northern Africa
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 2.5'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Edible
Herb

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sago Palm

History

On the 23rd of March in 1795, Washington was shipped plants, including 2 sago palms, from the Jamaica Botanic Garden in Leguanea, Jamaica

Details

This is one of the most ancient plants still alive today.

Latin Name Cycas revoluta
Family Cycadaceae
Also Known As King Sago
Native Range Southern Japan
Max Height 20'
Max Spread 10'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Ornamental

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sainfoin

History

Washington was constantly experimenting with sainfoin, but failing.

Details

Sainfoin is a fodder crop that is highly nutritious for livestock and also provides nectar for bees.

Latin Name Onobrychis viciifolia
Family Fabaceae
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Europe, Asia
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Salad Burnet

History

Thomas Jefferson planted salad burnet in his gardens many times, beginning in 1778.

Details

This perennial herb is primarily grown for its flavorful leaves, which are used in salads, soups, and cold drinks. Its flavor is reminiscent of cucumbers, and it may be substituted for mint in many recipes.

Latin Name Sanguisorba minor
Family Rosaceae
Also Known As Garden Burnet
Bloom Season July - July
Native Range Europe, northern Africa, Asia, Canary Islands
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Edible
Herb

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Salsify

History

Salsify was a popular colonial vegetable and was grown by Brother August Schubert at Bethabara in 1761.

Details

Salsify is a unique biennial root vegetable with grass-like leaves. In the spring it produces masses of daisy-like purple flowers followed by large seedheads that resemble those of dandelions. The root is said to taste somewhat like oysters and looks like a white carrot.

Latin Name Tragopogon porrifolius
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Oyster Plant
Jerusalem Star
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Mediterranean
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Scarlet Rose Mallow

History

Lady Jean Skipwith had these in her garden at Prestwould in Virginia.

Details

This plant is the largest hibiscus grown at Mount Vernon, as well as the longest flowering. Its brilliant red blooms are a bold statement in the summer border. It is native to the swamps and marshes of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

Latin Name Hibiscus coccineus
Family Malvaceae
Also Known As Texas Star
Scarlet Hibiscus
Brilliant Hibiscus
Bloom Season June - September
Native Range Southeastern United States
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Wet Soil
Uses Rain Garden
Water Plant
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Scotch Rose

History

Thomas Jefferson was growing the Scotch rose at his home in 1791.

Details

Scotch rose is aggressively thorny but makes up for it with a profusion of white blooms. We recommend a thorn-proof hat when working in the vicinity of this rose! It offers a second show in the fall with showy maroon hips.

Latin Name Rosa spinosissima
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Europe, Asia
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Seminole Squash

Details

Seminole squash are spherical to pear-shaped and lightly ribbed with a tan skin. With its sweet, deep orange flesh, this squash is excellent when baked or roasted, and keeps for months (over a year in one MV gardener's pantry!). Named for the native Americans growing it in Florida when the Spaniards arrived in the 1500s, it tolerates heat, drought, insects, and powdery mildew.

Latin Name Cucurbita moschata
Family Cucurbitaceae
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Central and northern South America
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Seventeen Sisters Daffodil

History

Date of introduction: 1700

Details

Seventeen Sisters is a multi-flowered daffodil which features many small white flowers with yellow cups held on stiffly upright stems. It is very fragrant.

Latin Name Narcissus tazetta 'Avalanche'
Family Amaryllidaceae
Also Known As Avalanche
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Scilly Isles
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Drought
Deer
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Siberian Iris

History

Plant collector John Bartram of Philadelphia listed Siberian irises in his catalog for 1771 to 1809.

Details

Thick clumps of spiky foliage and bright purple or blue flowers are perfect for mid-border planting. Like their German cousins, these benefit from division so they don't grow hollow in the middle.

Latin Name Iris sibirica
Family Iridaceae
Also Known As Siberian flag
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Europe and Central Asia
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Drought
Clay Soil
Erosion
Wet Soil
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Silver Standard Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1760

Details

Silver standard is a beautiful tulip, with white petals boldly splashed with pink streaks.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Silver Standard'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.25'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Snake's Head Fritillary

History

Checkered lily was popular in colonial gardens by 1700.

Details

These dainty bell-shaped flowers in shades of maroon and white with faint checkered patterns perch atop slender arching stems. They prefer to be grown in cool moist sites.

Latin Name Fritillaria meleagris
Family Liliaceae
Also Known As Guinea-hen Flower
Leper Lily
Checkered Lily
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Europe
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Deer
Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Snapdragon

History

Thomas Jefferson first observed snapdragons blooming at his childhood home, Shadwell, in 1767.

Details

This colorful cool season annual is a charmer in the middle of the flower border during the spring and fall.

Latin Name Antirrhinum majus
Family Plantaginaceae
Also Known As Dragon Flower
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range China and the United States
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sneezeweed

History

Sneezeweed appeared on John Bartram's plant list in the mid 1700s.

Details

A tall, brash plant with chrome yellow flowers brightens the summer border. Easy to grow, it tolerates a wide variety of conditions, although a haircut in the spring will prevent flopping later.

Latin Name Helenium autumnale
Family Asteraceae
Bloom Season August - October
Native Range North America
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Clay Soil
Wet Soil
Uses Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Snowdrop

History

Lady Jean Skipwith planted snowdrops in her Virginia garden in 1793.

Details

Sweet white flowers naturalize easily in lawns or garden beds. This early bloomer is known for poking through the snow as early as February.

Latin Name Galanthus nivalis
Family Amaryllidaceae
Also Known As Dingle-dangles
Candlemas Bells
Snow Piercer
Bloom Season February - March
Native Range Europe
Max Height 0.75'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Deer
Clay Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Southern Catalpa

History

George Washington planted two catalpas west of the garden houses in March of 1785.

Details

This native plant is a medium deciduous tree with large white flowers in the spring and striking cigar-like seedpods in the fall. It features large heart-shaped leaves.

Latin Name Catalpa bignonioides
Family Bignoniaceae
Also Known As Cigartree
Indian-bean-tree
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Southeastern United States
Max Height 60'
Max Spread 40'
Tolerances Drought
Deer
Wet Soil
Uses Shade Tree
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Southern Magnolia

History

In March of 1785, Washington planted magnolias west of the Garden Houses.

Details

An iconic tree of the south, magnolias are beautiful in both form, leaf, and flower. Widely for their fragrant blooms, they also provide winter interest with both their seedpods and shiny evergreen leaves which are often used in wreaths.

Latin Name Magnolia grandiflora
Family Magnoliaceae
Also Known As Bull Bay
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Southeastern United States
Max Height 80'
Max Spread 50'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Uses Flowering Tree
Shade Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Spiderwort

History

Philadelphia plantsman John Bartram listed this Virginia native for sale in 1770.

Details

Spiderwort has grassy foliage and interesting purple blossoms, but tends to flop after flowering. It does best in shady locations and benefits from a good haircut after blooming.

Latin Name Tradescantia virginiana
Family Commelinaceae
Also Known As Spider Lily
Bloom Season May - July
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Clay Soil
Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Spinach

History

Washington's Gardener's Report records the gardeners " Digging, Sowing pease, Spinage, & planting Onions" on Feb 4 of 1798 in the garden.

Details

Spinach is a low-growing leafy green which is ideal in salads, but can also be prepared in soups, stews, or as a cooked green. It is a cool season crop, prone to bolting when summer temperatures get too high.

Latin Name Spinacea oleracea
Family Amaranthaceae
Native Range Iran
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 1'
Uses Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Stinking hellebore

History

On a list dated from 1793, Lady Jean Skipwith of Prestwould Plantation in Clarksville records growing stinking hellebore, or setter wort, in her gardens.

Details

Don’t let the name fool you, as stinking hellebore’s evergreen foliage and clusters of drooping, bell-shaped, greenish-white flowers emerging from pale green bracts are a much-needed spot of color in the winter woodland garden. Established plants will readily self-seed to form colonies if flowers are allowed to dry on the plant. All parts of the stinking hellebore- leaves, stems, and roots, are poisonous.

Latin Name Hellebore foetidus
Family Ranunculaceae
Also Known As Bearfoot
setter wort
dungwort
Bloom Season January - March
Native Range Europe
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Ground Cover
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Stock

History

Lady Jean Skipwith grew two types of stock, which she referred to as 10 week stock and Queens stock, at Prestwould, her Virginia home.

Details

This clove-scented flower flourishes in cool weather and makes an excellent cut flower.

Latin Name Matthiola incana
Family Brassicaceae
Also Known As Brompton Stock
Night-scented Stock
Ten Week Stock
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Coastal southern and western Europe
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Strawberry

History

Winthrop Sargent wrote to Washington in 1798, "I send you a few Seed of the Scarlet Alpine Strawberry which in my Garden produces most excellent Fruit during all the Summer and Autumn and which have not been till lately known to me in America-- for twenty Years I was unsuccessfully essaying to procure it."

Details

These easy to grow and delicious fruits are hardy and vigorous producers.

Latin Name Fragaria x ananassa
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Europe
Max Height 0.75'
Max Spread 1.5'
Uses Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Strawberry Bush

History

George Washington planted the seeds of the strawberry bush in a box in front of his greenhouse in April of 1785.

Details

This airy woodland shrub looks unassuming until it sets its brilliant red fruit in the fall, when it earns its many common names.

Latin Name Euonymus americanus
Family Celastraceae
Also Known As Hearts-a-Bustin
Bursting-Heart
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 6'
Tolerances Clay Soil
Black Walnut
Uses Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sugar Maple

History

George Washington planted sugar maples at Mount Vernon, but was generally unsuccessful.

Details

This stately tree is well-known for its fall color and production of maple syrup. It is a tree of northern forests and does not tolerate the heat or humidity of the south.

Latin Name Acer saccharum
Family Sapindaceae
Also Known As Rock Maple
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 80'
Max Spread 60'
Tolerances Heavy Shade
Uses Shade Tree
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Summersweet

History

Washington obtained a summersweet from John Bartram in 1792.

Details

This dense suckering shrub tolerates wet soils and shade. In late summer it bursts into bloom, with long panicles of fragrant white flowers, followed by attractive yellow fall color.

Latin Name Clethra alnifolia
Family Clethraceae
Also Known As Sweet Pepperbush
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 8'
Max Spread 6'
Tolerances Heavy Shade
Wet Soil
Erosion
Clay Soil
Uses Hedge
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sunflower

History

They were discovered by the Spanish in the 1500s and were growing in colonial gardens by the 1600s.

Details

These gorgeous native plants bloom in a variety of colors and sizes, including pale yellow, oranges, and golds. Some are grown merely for their beauty while others, such as the Mammoth sunflower, are grown for their seeds.

Latin Name Helianthus annuus
Family Asteraceae
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range United States and Central America
Max Height 10'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Annual
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Swan's Neck Daffodil

History

Date of Introduction: 1604

Details

The Swan's Neck daffodil is a white daffodil that keeps its flowers bent toward the earth. It is fairly small and should be planted close to the front for the best viewing opportunities.

Latin Name Narcissus moschatus
Family Amaryllidaceae
Bloom Season March - April
Native Range Southern Europe and northern Africa
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sweet Alyssum

History

Plantsman Bernard McMahon listed Sweet Alysson in his 1802 catalog.

Details

Dense mounds of tiny fragrant white flowers form a spreading carpet under large perennials and annuals in the spring border.

Latin Name Lobularia maritima
Family Brassicaceae
Also Known As Sweet Alysson
Bloom Season April - June
Native Range Southern Europe
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sweet Potato

History

George Washington planted sweet potatoes at Muddy Hole in April of 1787.

Details

Sweet potatoes are vigorous, running plants that will easily exceed their allotted space in the garden if not kept under control. They should be grown in mounds, much the way one would grow potatoes. They are extremely cold sensitive and should be planted after the soil has warmed in the spring and harvested before the first frost in the fall.

Latin Name Ipomoea batatas
Family Convolvulaceae
Also Known As Yam
Native Range Indonesia
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 10'
Tolerances Drought
Dry Soil
Uses Annual
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sweet William

History

They were introduced to European gardens in the 12th by Carthusian monks and by the mid 1700s they were popular in colonial America.

Details

This old-fashioned biennial with its cheerful pink and white blossoms in the late spring is a mainstay of cottage gardens.

Latin Name Dianthus barbatus
Family Caryophyllaceae
Also Known As Gillyflower
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Southern Europe
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Swiss Chard

History

An entry in Thomas Jefferson's diary for April 30, 1774 mentions sowing “white beet,” another named for leaf-beet or Swiss Chard.

Details

Swiss chard is a leafy green that can be harvested continually to be used in salads or cooked. Its leaves may be plain green or have red midribs.

Latin Name Beta vulgaris var. cicla
Family Amaranthaceae
Also Known As Silver Beet
Perpetual Spinach
Leaf Beet
Native Range Mediterranean
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Vegetable
Ornamental
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Sycamore

History

While sycamores are native to the Mid-Atlantic region, Washington doesn’t record growing them, except when writing to his farm manager about their use in living fences. He does include an Asian variety in his list of plants ordered in March of 1792 from nurseryman John Bartram .

Details

On a winter's day, the sight of the sycamore's bright white trunk against a blue sky is breathtaking. This tree can grow to massive proportions when well-sited and should be given plenty of space, especially since they can be messy.

Latin Name Platanus occidentalis
Family Platanaceae
Also Known As American Plane Tree
Buttonwood
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Eastern and central United States
Max Height 100'
Max Spread 100'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Deer
Uses Shade Tree
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Tansy

History

Historically, tansy was grown for its medicinal properties, which included treating rheumatism, fevers, sores, intestinal worms, and other digestive problems. It can also be used as an insect repellent. Thomas Jefferson was growing it in his kitchen garden at Monticello.

Details

Tansy is a tough plant that can grow in almost any sunny spot. While its ferny foliage and clusters of cheerful yellow button flowers are attractive, it can be invasive due to its underground runners and propensity to re-seed.

Latin Name Tanacetum vulgare
Family Asteracea
Also Known As Common tansy
Bitter buttons
Cow bitter
Native Range Temperate Eurasia
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 6'
Tolerances Drought
Uses

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Tart Cherry

History

While legend has it that a young George cut down a cherry tree, this is a myth which originated in a biography written by Mason Locke Weems just after Washington's death. As an adult, Washington was growing cherry trees on his estate as early as 1760, grafting and planting many through the years. On January 6, 1798, his gardener’s report records “Pruning & Fastening Cherry trees on the Wall” of the Upper Garden.

Details

Cherry tree species grown primarily for fruit production bloom later than the ornamental varieties. Tart cherries perform best in the humid climate of Virginia's coastal region.

Latin Name Prunus cerasus Montmorency
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Europe, southwest Asia
Max Height 30'
Max Spread 30'
Uses Edible
Flowering Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Tennessee Red Valencia Peanut

History

George Washington requested that Clement Biddle procure a bushel of "Ground Pease, or pindars, as they are called" for him in February of 1798.

Details

Peanuts are small leguminous plants with many bright yellow flowers. They form their fruits underground and they should be harvested in the fall when the plant begins to yellow.

Latin Name Arachis hypogaea
Family Fabaceae
Also Known As Goober
Pindars (Pendars)
Groundnut
Bloom Season July - September
Native Range Tropical South America
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 2'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Threadleaf Coreopsis

Details

Featuring airy foliage and golden flowers, this native plant is an attractive addition to the front of the border. It spreads by runners and is easily divided to share with your friends and neighbors. It is native to Fairfax County, Virginia.

Latin Name Coreopsis verticillata
Family Asteraceae
Also Known As Pot-of-Gold
Threadleaf Tickseed
Whorled Tickseed
Bloom Season June - September
Native Range Eastern and Central North America
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Thyme

History

Brother Lung of the Moravian settlement of Bethabara had thyme planted in his upland garden in 1759.

Details

A small, woody sub-shrub, thyme has aromatic leaves and whorls of pink flowers in early summer. It is popularly used as an edging and between stones in walkways. It is also an excellent culinary herb.

Latin Name Thymus vulgaris
Family Lamiaceae
Bloom Season May - July
Native Range Southern Europe
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 1'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Edible
Herb

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Tiger Daylily

History

Lady Jean Skipwith planted tiger lilies in her Virginia garden in 1793.

Details

This summer blooming perennial has strap-like leaves and large orange flowers. Because it naturalizes easily, this daylily can be commonly seen in roadside ditches and marking the sites of old outhouses.

Latin Name Hemerocallis fulva
Family Asphodelaceae
Also Known As Ditch Lily
Tawny Daylily
Outhouse Lily
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range China or Japan
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Clay Soil
Drought
Dry Soil
Erosion
Rabbit
Uses Naturalize
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Tobacco

History

Washington wrote to George Augustine Washington regarding the planting of tobacco in 1789, saying, "Although a precise number of Tobacco Hills is, by my general directions, allotted to each Plantation yet my real intention is, that no more ground shall be appropriated to this Crop than what is either naturally very good (for which purpose small spots may be chosen) or which can be made strong by manure of some kind or another for my object is to labour for profit, and therefore to substitute quality instead of quantity there being (except in the article of manuring) no difference between attending a good Plant and an indifferent one—but in any event let the precise number of hills be ascertained that an estimate may be formed of their yield to the thousand."

Details

This plant is used for the production of its leaves, which provide the tobacco which goes into cigarettes, cigars and other forms. It can also be used as an ornamental, with its dramatic height and delicate pink flowers

Latin Name Nicotiana tabacum
Family Solanaceae
Native Range Cultivated
Max Height 6'
Max Spread 3'
Uses Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Tournesol Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1769

Details

Tournesol Red and Yellow is a short double tulip that does well at the front of the flower border.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Tournesol Red and Yellow'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Tulip Poplar

History

Washington recorded in his diary on January 12, 1785 that he "Road to my Mill Swamp, where my Dogue run hands were at work & to other places in search of the sort of Trees I shall want for my walks, groves, & Wildernesses." Among those trees were the tulip poplars that are located in the Bowling Green just outside the Upper and Lower Garden gates, which he found in the area that is now the Pioneer Farmer site.

Details

One of the largest native trees in North America, the tulip poplar can reach heights of 150 feet in nature. It is actually a member of the magnolia family, and named for its distinct tulip-shaped leaves and flowers. These showy, goblet-shaped, orange-yellow-green flowers appear in late spring after the leaves, although on a mature specimen they can be hard to see.

Latin Name Liriodendron tulipifera
Family Magnoliaceae
Also Known As Tulip tree
White poplar
Whitewood
Native Range Deciduous forests of Eastern US
Max Height 90'
Max Spread 50'
Uses Shade Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Turnip

History

In November of 1785, George Washington wrote in his diary, "Finished digging my Summer Turnips and putting them in a Cellar."

Details

Turnips are a cool season root vegetable. They produce a large purple and white bulbous taproot which have historically been a winter staple. They can be roasted, mashed, or eaten raw.

Latin Name Brassica rapa var. rapa
Family Brassicaceae
Native Range Europe
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1'
Uses Vegetable
Edible

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Twin Sisters Daffodil

History

Date of introduction: 1597

Details

Twin Sisters lives up to its name, with each stem bearing two small white and yellow flowers.

Latin Name Narcissus x medioluteus
Family Amaryllidaceae
Also Known As Cemetary Ladies
Primrose Peerless
Bloom Season May - May
Native Range Western France
Max Height 1.25'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Valerian

History

The earliest recorded use of valerian was by Hippocrates in the 4th century BC.

Details

This umbelliferous perennial is attractive to bees and other pollinators. It is mildly fragrant. Valerian is an excellent addition to the back of the garden and it reseeds readily.

Latin Name Valeriana officinalis
Family Caprifoliaceae
Also Known As Garden Heliotrope
Bloom Season June - July
Native Range Europe, Western Asia
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 4'
Tolerances Wet Soil
Uses Flower Border
Herb

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Van Sion Daffodil

History

Date of introduction: 1620

Details

Van Sion is a bright yellow daffodil streaked with green. It is double, with many softly pointed petals.

Latin Name Narcissus telamonius plenus
Family Amaryllidaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Southern Europe and northern Africa
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Rabbit
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Virginia bluebell

History

In 1734, plantsman John Custis of Williamsburg sent some Virginia bluebell rhizomes to his friend Peter Collinson in London.

Details

A harbinger of spring, emerging foliage is deep purple but quickly turns green, and is followed by terminal clusters of pendulous, trumpet-shaped blue flowers. Virginia bluebells will rapidly colonize in moist shady areas. They are herbaceous perennials, which means that foliage dies to the ground as the plant goes dormant towards mid-summer.

Latin Name Mertensia virginica
Family Boraginaceae
Also Known As Cowslip
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1.5'
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Virginia Pine

History

Washington notes in his diary on March 22nd of 1785 that he "Planted the intermediate holes round the Walk in the Wilderness on the right and filled the spaces between with young Pines."

Details

Virginia pines add a distinctive profile to the landscape, particularly in winter, when they are a bright spot among all the grays and browns. This medium sized pine tree provides habitat for birds, and were used for pine tar, as well as lumber.

Latin Name Pinus virginiana
Family Pinaceae
Also Known As Jersey Pine
Scrub Pine
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 30'
Max Spread 20'
Tolerances Deer
Uses Shade Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Virginia Sweetspire

History

George Washington ordered several Virginia sweetspires from John Bartram in 1792.

Details

This semi-evergreen shrub is native to wetland areas and has an arching habit. Fragrant white flowers appear in summer followed by beautiful maroon foliage in autumn.

Latin Name Itea virginica
Family Iteaceae
Also Known As Virginia Willow
Tasselwhite
Bloom Season June - July
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 5'
Tolerances Heavy Shade
Erosion
Clay Soil
Wet Soil
Deer
Uses Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Virginia White Gourdseed Corn

History

In October of 1786, Washington wrote of harvesting some of his corn for plantation use.

Details

Virginia White Gourdseed corn is an exceptionally tall variety that produces very firm kernels which are best suited to milling or use as a feed corn.

Latin Name Zea Mays
Family Poaceae
Native Range Mexico
Max Height 12'
Max Spread 2'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Annual
Crop
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Wallflower

History

They have been grown in English gardens since the late 1500s and were popular in colonial gardens by the beginning of the 18th century.

Details

Wallflowers are a charming spring bloomer of exceptional hardiness. With yellow and red flowers, this cheerful annual adds vibrancy to the front and middle of the flower border.

Latin Name Erysimum cheiri
Family Brassicaceae
Bloom Season April - June
Native Range Southern Europe
Max Height 2'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Dry Soil
Drought
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Uses Annual
Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Wapen van Leiden Tulip

History

Date of introduction: 1760

Details

Wapen van Leiden is a lovely white tulip brushed with pink. It is well suited to the middle of the border.

Latin Name Tulipa 'Wapen van Leiden'
Family Liliaceae
Bloom Season April - April
Native Range Africa and Eurasia
Max Height 1.25'
Max Spread 0.75'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Watermelon

History

On May 5th, 1788 George Washington recorded the planting of "water mellen" seeds in his diary.

Details

Watermelon plants are vigorous, vining plants which need to be given quite a bit of space to ramble in. They produce large melons of varying sizes and colors, depending on the variety.

Latin Name Citrullus lanatus
Family Cucurbitaceae
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range Namibia
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 15'
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Weeping Willow

History

Washington constructed two mounds planted with weeping willows on either side of the gate onto the bowling green. Unfortunately, the cultural requirements of weeping willows do not favor this sort of environment.

Details

Classically planted in moist areas such as lakes and ponds, this elegant tree should be given plenty of room and planted well away from structures.

Latin Name Salix babylonica
Family Salicaceae
Also Known As Babylon Willow
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Northern China
Max Height 80'
Max Spread 50'
Tolerances Wet Soil
Black Walnut
Uses Shade Tree
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

White Mulberry

History

The leaves of the mulberry tree have been used in China since at least 2600 B.C. as the primary diet for silkworms, and during colonial times the trees were introduced into North America in an effort to establish a silk industry. Washington received 100 white mulberry trees from Aspinwalls Nursery in Connecticut, which he instructed his farm manager, Anthony Whitting, to “plant about in clumps.”

Details

Mulberry trees can be found throughout North America in fencerows, abandoned fields, and urban areas, due to the propensity for their seeds to be spread by birds who ravenously feed on the fruit. The glossy, serrated leaves take different forms on the same tree, generally undivided or distinctly lobed, and the inconspicuous yellowish-green flowers in drooping catkins on female trees give way to edible blackberry-like fruits that mature in June.

Latin Name Morus alba
Family Moraceae
Also Known As Mulberry
Bloom Season March - April
Native Range China
Max Height 50'
Max Spread 50'
Tolerances Drought
Uses

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

White Oak

History

During Washington's day, white oak was a valuable lumber used for barrels, posts, and other building materials.

Details

White oaks are well known for their distinctive silhouette. They are massive trees which provide excellent shade as well as habitat for birds and other wildlife. Their acorns are especially attractive to deer and squirrels.

Latin Name Quercus alba
Family Fagaceae
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 80'
Max Spread 80'
Tolerances Drought
Clay Soil
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Black Walnut
Uses Shade Tree
Street Tree
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

White Rose of York

History

The White Rose of York is the symbol of the House of York, who famously fought in the War of the Roses. This rose has been known in cultivation since the 1600s.

Details

The White Rose of York is a large rose with elegant white flowers in the late spring and early summer. It is prone to sprawling and can be tied to posts or trellises to help keep it in check. This rose's beautiful white flowers are followed by rose hips which take on a gorgeous color in the fall.

Latin Name Rosa x alba 'Semi-Plena'
Family Rosaceae
Bloom Season May - June
Native Range Europe
Max Height 9'
Max Spread 5'

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Wild Bergamot

History

John Bartram of Philadelphia offered wild bergamot for sale in his 1770 catalog.

Details

A more delicate species than its red-flowered cousin, bergamot has lovely lavender flowers and a more graceful look. It is attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

Latin Name Monarda fistulosa
Family Lamiaceae
Also Known As Bee balm
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range North America
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Deer
Drought
Clay Soil
Dry Soil
Shallow-Rocky Soil
Black Walnut
Uses Flower Border
Herb
Naturalize
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Wild Columbine

History

William Faris planted these in his Maryland garden in 1790.

Details

Wild columbines have dainty red and yellow flowers on long stems above clumps of bright green foliage. They self-seed reliably to form vigorous naturalized colonies.

Latin Name Aquilegia canadensis
Family Ranunculaceae
Also Known As Eastern Red Columbine
Canadian Columbine
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 3'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Deer
Rabbit
Dry Soil
Drought
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Willing's Barbados Bird Pepper

History

George Washington planted bird peppers in June of 1785.

Details

Bird peppers are large plants, easily growing to 6 feet over the course of a season. They thrive in the heat of the year and produce masses of tiny red peppers with a lot of heat and excellent flavor.

Latin Name Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum
Family Solanaceae
Native Range Central America
Max Height 5'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Drought
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Winter Aconite

History

John Custis of Williamsburg received them from Collinson, an English plant collector, in 1739.

Details

This unusual early bulb offers small sunny yellow flowers in March when little else is blooming. In southern zones they benefit from light shade.

Latin Name Eranthis hyemalis
Family Ranunculaceae
Bloom Season March - April
Native Range Southern Europe
Max Height 0.5'
Max Spread 0.5'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Deer
Uses Flower Border

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Winter Rye

History

George Washington was producing rye at most of his farms.

Details

This common cereal grain is used in distilling, as animal fodder, for cooking, and is also used as a cover crop.

Latin Name Secale cereale
Family Poaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Turkey
Max Height 4'
Max Spread 1'
Uses Edible
Crop

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Winterberry Holly

History

In a January 1785 diary entry, Washington remarked, "I discovered in tracing it upwards many small & thriving plants of the Magnolio and about & within the Fence, not far distant, some young Maple Trees; & the red berry of the Swamp."

Details

Winterberry is a relatively insignificant woodland plant until its brilliant red berries light up the winter landscape. It is a native shrub of eastern wetlands and provides excellent habitat for songbirds.

Latin Name Ilex verticillata
Family Aquifoleaceae
Also Known As Swamp Holly
Brook Alder
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 12'
Max Spread 12'
Tolerances Air Pollution
Clay Soil
Erosion
Wet Soil
Uses Hedge
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Woodland Phlox

History

Lady Jean Skipwith grew woodland phlox at her Virginia plantation in 1793.

Details

A native of the eastern U.S., this spreading woodland plant has sweet blue flowers, which look wonderful at the front of the spring border. They bloom at the same time as tulips, violas, and other early spring ephemerals.

Latin Name Phlox divaricata
Family Polemoniaceae
Also Known As Wild Sweet William
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Eastern North America
Max Height 1.5'
Max Spread 1.5'
Tolerances Clay Soil
Deer
Drought
Dry Soil
Heavy Shade
Uses Flower Border
Naturalize

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Yellow buckeye

History

According to historical accounts, in 1784 George Washington discovered a yellow buckeye tree with rose-colored flowers near what is now Morgantown, West Virginia. On April 13, 1785 he wrote in his diary "Planted & Sowed in boxes placed in front of the Green House the following things—Box No. 1 partition No. 1 Six buck eye nuts, brought with me from the Mouth of Cheat River; they were much dried & shrivelled—but had been steeped 24 hours in water". The seedlings were eventually planted around the grounds and shrubberies of Mount Vernon and several survived well into the 20th century. While our tree on the Bowling Green was not planted during Washington’s lifetime, it may be a descendant from one of the original trees. Charles S. Sargent, who was Director of Harvard’s Arnold Arboretum for over 50 years, and a long time advisor to the Mount Vernon Ladies Association, was known to have replaced a number of Washington era trees with offspring of the originals.

Details

The yellow buckeye is a large deciduous shade tree. Susceptible to leaf scorch in full sun, it is best planted in an area with afternoon shade. Despite their showy flowers produced in upright clusters measuring up to 6 inches tall, they are most commonly known for their large mahogany-colored nuts, which historically were pocketed by mid-westerners as a lucky token. Our tree, believed to be a descendant of seeds collected by Washington, is a variety with red, rather than yellow, blooms.

Latin Name Aesculus octandra var. virginicus
Family Sapindaceae
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Eastern United States
Max Height 75'
Max Spread 50'
Uses Shade Tree

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Yellow Crookneck Squash

History

John Custis sent bush squash seeds to Peter Collinson in 1741.

Details

Crookneck squash grow in a dense, leafy clump and produce many yellow squashes which need to be harvested nearly every day. They are susceptible to most squash pests, including squash bugs, powdery mildew, and squash vine borers.

Latin Name Cucurbita pepo
Family Cucurbitaceae
Also Known As Summer Squash
Bloom Season July - August
Native Range North America
Max Height 2.5'
Max Spread 3'
Tolerances Rabbit
Uses Annual
Edible
Vegetable

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Yellow Willow

History

In December of 1787, Washington sent a bundle of cuttings of the golden willow to George Weedon.

Details

Yellow willows are often used as hedges and screens. They can be repeatedly cut down to encourage a bushy habit which shows off their flashy golden stems.

Latin Name Salix alba var. vitellina
Family Salicaceae
Also Known As Golden Willow
Bloom Season April - May
Native Range Europe, Northern Africa, and Central Asia
Max Height 70'
Max Spread 50'
Tolerances Black Walnut
Erosion
Clay Soil
Uses Hedge
Rain Garden

Colors

Planted at Mount Vernon

Hardiness Zones

Call Mount Vernon