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| LUSH VIOLET LACECAP HYDRANGEA DISCOVERED AT LAFAYETTE MUSEUM | |
| Published: June 10, 1997 | |
Fringed blossoms are disc-shaped instead of globe-shapedQ:Recently, in clearing away the bamboo that had grown up at the base of the back steps of the Lafayette Museum, we discovered that a hydrangea had been nearly smothered by the bamboo. Exposed to filtered sunlight and better air circulation, it bloomed, but the beautiful bloom is different from any hydrangea I had seen before. One of the group identified it as a lacecap hydrangea. Is there such a thing, and what can you tell me about it?A:Your friend correctly identified it. There are two distinct flower types of Hydrangea macrophylla, the best known being those with globe-shaped heads of primarily sterile flowers, those of our grandmothers gardens. The other is the flat, disc-shaped lacecap variety, having an inner cluster of fertile flowers surrounded by lacy, sterile blossoms. Each type is gorgeous.Both plants benefit from the same annual care. In spring, dead wood should be cut back to live wood, and older branchesthose over three-fourths inch in diametershould be removed. To reduce size, pruning should be done soon after flowering, as both plants bloom on the previous years wood. Try to visit the museum while this lovely hydrangea is in bloom. Catalpa tree a mixed blessingQ:Do you have any information on catalpa trees? There is one growing near my office and it makes beautiful blooms in the spring. However, after searching, I do not see them in many yards. Is there a reason why I shouldnt plant one in my yard?A:For quick shade, lovely spring flowers, attractive fall pods and sometimes a source of worms for fishing, catalpa trees (Catalpa bignonioides) are useful trees. As you surmised, there is a downside. The trees are short-lived, they reseed abundantly, and they produce droppings of pods, blossoms, leaves, and twigs, making a generally trashy tree.The trees are very attractive to catalpa moths, which deposit eggs on undersides of foliage. There they hatch into lava and feed on the leaves, often stripping the foliage in late spring. In years past, groves of catalpa trees were planted to attract the worms for fish bait; however, increased spraying of crops with insecticides has reduced the worm population. Please call to identify the location of the catalpa tree near your office. There are lots of us tree-watchers who would enjoy seeing it from season to season, especially since we wouldnt have to clean up after it. Q:I am growing some lovely basil plants and would like to dry the leaves for winter use. Are there any special tips for doing so?A:Two Houston sources said that its best to cut the leaves just before blooming, which may be done several times during a summer. They recommend drying the leaves between two paper towels, and suggest freezing the leaves for future us.Another source said that the whole plant should be cut away at the soil level late in September, the stems tied into bunches and strung up in an airy room or sunny window. When quite dry, the leaves should be removed from the stem to use when required. I suspect that the first method would be better for a humid climate like ours. |