PACIFIC NORTHWEST
Variegated Japanese Horse Chestnut
Scientific Name: Aesculus turbinata ‘Marble Chip’
Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Mature Size: 20 to 30 feet high and wide
Growing Conditions: Prefers partial shade and rich, moist soil
Origin: Japan
Spring is more than just a season for flowers.
One standout option, the variegated Japanese horse chestnut, captivates with its salmon and pink foliage that unfurls as the weather warms.
This beauty thrives when planted in morning sun but needs some afternoon shade to keep its leaves safe from harsh rays.
Deciduous Azalea, ‘Arneson Gem’
Scientific Name: Rhododendron ‘Arneson Gem’
Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Mature Size: 3 to 4 feet tall and wide
Growing Conditions: Needs full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil
Origin: Hybrid
For colorful spring displays, you can’t overlook deciduous azaleas.
The ‘Arneson Gem’ captures attention with its striking red buds that bloom into a profusion of golden yellow flowers accented by fiery orange.
This compact plant resists powdery mildew, making it a reliable choice.
SOUTHWEST
Eve’s Necklace
Scientific Name: Styphnolobium affine
Hardiness Zones: 7–9
Mature Size: 15 to 30 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide
Growing Conditions: Best in full sun to partial shade with well-drained, alkaline soil
Origin: South Central United States
This striking deciduous tree boasts fragrant clusters of ivory and soft pink flowers that are irresistible to bumblebees.
Agarita
Scientific Name: Mahonia trifoliolata
Hardiness Zones: 7–9
Mature Size: 3 to 8 feet tall and wide
Growing Conditions: Thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained alkaline soil
Origin: Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico
Agarita dazzles in late winter, producing luscious clusters of golden blooms that are a magnet for early spring pollinators.
MIDWEST
Romance Foxtail Lily
Scientific Name: Eremurus isabellinus ‘Romance’
Hardiness Zones: 5–8
Mature Size: Up to 7 feet high and 3 feet wide
Growing Conditions: Prefers full sun with rich, well-drained soil
Origin: Western and Central Asia
Expect breathtaking displays of pale peach blooms on towering spikes from this stunning plant by late May.
Lisa Marie Lungwort
Scientific Name: Pulmonaria ‘Lisa Marie’
Hardiness Zones: 4–8
Mature Size: 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide
Growing Conditions: Thrives in partial to full shade with moist, well-drained soil
Origin: Europe and Western Asia
With its attractive silver-spotted leaves and vibrant raspberry flowers, this lungwort is a favorite among early pollinators.
With these suggestions in mind, you’re equipped to transform your garden into a vivid canvas of spring beauty! Happy planting!
Source: Finegardening