Tulip polar is not a tree to plant under a power line. Up to 200 foot specimens of this magnificent native have been recorded, with an average height of about 100 feet and spread of about fifty. However, for a rapidly-growing tree that provides abundant not-too-dense shade and tolerates most conditions, this is a good choice. Each late spring flower is yellow, orange, and green--truly the shape and size of tulips. Fall foliage is golden yellow. An important tree for wildlife, it is somewhat weak-wooded and tends to harbor aphids which secrete honeydew, so don’t plant it over your parking space.

Camellia ‘Lady Clare’
Camellia Japonica ‘Lady Clare’

Flowers in the snow? Yes! Camellias add an element of surprise to the winter garden with colorful blossoms in hues ranging from light pink to crimson and white. These large, attractive shrubs have lustrous, dark, evergreen leaves and a pyramid shape. Camellias are cold hardy when sited in a protected location, on the north side of the house. Some begin flowering in fall while others wait until winter. ‘Lady Clare’ blooms mid-late season with large dark pink flowers and offers above-average cold hardiness. These shrubs are happiest when planted in moist, well-drained acidic soil amended with organic matter.

Lichen spp.

All right, technically lichen is not a plant. It is algae cells enclosed in fungal cells, working together in a symbiotic relationship. Lichen (the word is singular and plural) draws water and nutrients out of air. That’s how it can live on inhospitable surfaces such as a rock or fence or tree trunk. Although it attaches, it has not roots so surfaces are not harmed. A common tree lichen in Maryland is greenish gray and crusty, but combinations of different algae and fungi have evolved into many lichen colors and forms. Their main enemy is air pollution, because they are dependent on air for sustenance. Lichen on a tree, it is not cause for alarm. A tree covered in lichen, however, may signal other problems.