Riverbanks Offers More Than 60 Varieties at the Annual Plant Sale

Horticulturists Weigh in on this Season’s Must-Have Plants

Looking for the perfect specimen to complete your landscaping or perfect your summer garden? Look no further than Riverbanks Botanical Garden’s annual Plant Sale being held on Saturday, April 25. The sale will run from 9am to noon at the Garden’s Growing Center located at 1201 Seminole Drive in West Columbia.

This year Riverbanks will offer more than 60 different varieties and nearly 5,000 plants. Shoppers can expect to see a wide assortment of cultivars including annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees and bulbs.

Here is what the experts had to say about this year’s must-have plants:

“I love Pennisetum ‘Princess’. It’s one of my favorites because of the purple color and it comes back every year unlike the other purple grasses.” Linda Clamp, zoo horticulturist

“Eucalyptus nicholii has great texture, and the blue-green color mixes well in the garden. The fast growth and changing color in the winter make this a fabulous small tree.” Brian Francis, design horticulturist

“Acanthus ‘Summer Beauty’ has large glossy leaves and intriguing blooms. The large, shiny foliage is a winner in the shade.” Kate Baltzell, zoo horticulturist

“Callistemon ‘Clemson Hardy’ was found at Clemson but must have been planted by a Gamecock because of the brilliant garnet-colored flower. So many visitors ask about this plant that I am glad we finally have enough to offer for sale.” Chris Mable, zoo senior horticulturist

“Kosteletzkya virginica has the cutest little hibiscus-like flowers. They make me smile.” Jerry Thrall, zoo horticulturist

“Any perennial hibiscus is a must-have plant, but my favorite is Hibiscus grandiflorus. Aptly named grand flower, the great rose mallow has an extremely large flower with dissected petals so that the flower resembles a windmill. The pale pink flower color stands out against the pale bluish-green velvet textured foliage. Grow it for the foliage or the flower, but just grow it. As with any perennial hibiscus, plant it in good garden soil, and in full sun, for the best flower. This perennial reaches about 6 feet in a season and is best planted behind other sun-loving flowers.” Melodie Scott-Leach, director of habitat horticulture

“If you are set on a particular plant, be sure to arrive early,” said Scott-Leach. She also recommends bringing a wagon or cart to help carry your plants.

Most plants will range from $5 to $10 with all proceeds directly benefiting Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Admission to the Plant Sale is free for those that arrive at the Seminole Drive entrance. For more information, visit www.riverbanks.org.