Plants that make a splash

The water garden scene, circa 2010, will look a lot like its land-bound kin – especially with regard to its potential to generate optimism after a less-than-encouraging 2009. Bright colors, vibrant textures and a general hue that leans toward a little “woo hoo” will be the way of many plants this year, including those that serve in wetter locales. Here are five “best bets”  and “super sleepers” that you can sell this spring to boost your water feature sales.

1. What is it? Lobelia cardinalis cardinal flower from Walters Gardens. Why should you sell it? This “conversation piece” plant is a beautiful complement to most pond settings. It naturally occurs as far north as New Brunswick, south to Florida, and west to Texas, and has brilliant fire-red flower spikes that stand atop distinctly upright plants from early summer to late summer. The leaves are green and lance-like. Where to find it? www.waltersgardens.com

2. What is it? Bacopa monnieri from Florida Aquatic Nurseries. Why should you sell it? This plant, commonly known as moneywort, has a fast growth rate and is a true aquatic plant. It flourishes in medium light, while covering the pond with a rich, attractive plant carpet. There also is a potential cross-selling opportunity with bottles of the plant’s “cousin,” the bacopa herb extract, which is purported to improve memory and alertness. Where to find it? www.floridaaquatic.com

3. What is it? Pickerel rush from Crystal Creek Pond Supply LLC. Why should you sell it? Of all the rush plants, the pickerel rush might be the prettiest, with its color-laden summer-long blooms in pink or purple. Pickerel rush grows about two feet high and about two feet wide and is very easy to grow. Where to find it? www.justpondplants.com

4. What is it? Water lilies from Texas Water Lilies. Why should you sell it? The water lily remains one of the more versatile plants for water features. How much so, you ask? The various incarnations of water lilies can be used in water garden ponds, small and large container gardens, large fountains, streams, ponds, lakes, wetlands, bog areas and detention ponds. Where to find it? www.texaswaterlilies.com

5. What is it? Swamp Rosemallow water hibiscus from WaterScapes Aquatic Plant Nursery. Why should you sell it? Hibiscus moscheutos is a beautiful, fast-growing wetland shrub that reaches 6.5 feet at maturity with softly serrated, heart-shaped leaves and flowers that are white, with deep red to burgundy centers that can reach 8 inches across. This plant is very easy to grow and adapts to a variety of soil conditions. The stunning flowers bloom from May until September, and the nectar attracts bees and hummingbirds. Where to find it? www.waterscapesnursery.com