New Hybrids

There are some new intergeneric hybrids for 2014, plants that are hybridized with two different genera, resulting in something entirely new to the plant world. Crosses like this occur in the animal world, examples include a horse with a donkey equal a Mule, a Zonkey is a cross between a zebra and a donkey and lastly a Liger which is a cross between a lion and tiger. In the world of plants, much (if not all) of this is driven by plant patents and money. So I like to test the newcomers, hopeful that the results produce a better garden plant, not just another flash in the pan.

The first new intergeneric hybrid is Digiplexis, a cross between digitalis or foxglove and Isoplexis canariensis, a plant species that lives on the Canary Islands. On a recent trip to Longwood Gardens I recognized the parent, Isoplexis canariensis, in the conservatory and snapped this photograph.

Here is the resulting cross in my garden, sold as Digiplexis 'Illumination Flame'.

The results are beautiful, the reasoning?, a plant that will flower for several months, hardy to zone 8, bottom line - not hardy for us, treat as an annual. And as an added caveat, the seedlings (rarely do these hybrids produce viable seed), need a period of vernalization or cold treatment, so you have to rely on plants that are grown from a commercial source. There will be more in the Illumination series, more colors for next year and hopefully more available and less expensive than what I've seen. So far I am impressed with digiplexis.

Another new intergeneric cross is Echibeckia 'Summerina'. The name says it all, echinacea with rudbeckia. Research on the internet is deceptive because I see this as a cross between Rudbeckia hirta or the gloriosa daisy, which is annual. The claim is that it will be hardy (sold as a perennial) and flower over a long period. 

Let's just say that I will be surprised if this plant is actually hardy. The lack of information always makes me suspect. 

On a really great note, my Allium 'Millenium' is fabulous. From the onion man, or the allium breeder Mark McDonough. This breeder works very hard to bring us the best of ornamental onion hybridization and this is a real winner. 

The plants are about 20" tall, beautiful in bud and flower and a great plant for July and August. Very worthy!

 

Comments

[Jeanann]

I saw the digiplexis this spring but passed due to the price but it is gorgeous! May have to find room in the budget next year.

[Peggy Riccio]

Now this is news! Very interesting and the Digiplexis is beautiful!

[Ann Rice]

I LOVE the allium! Where can I get it?
Ann

[karen]

We have it at the Fair Oaks Merrifield Ann.

[Arthur Raleigh]

Wow!