White in a Different Light

Petunia ‘Supertunia Mini Blue-Veined’

Neutral colors are important to keep in mind when planning a design. White, along with black and gray, can be used as a backdrop or as a handy dividing line between multiple color schemes or combinations. When used in the background, clear white gives prominence to neighboring colors and makes them appear darker.

‘Sweet Caroline Jet Black’

Black is another important neutral. Just as white serves to darken neighboring blooms, black makes surrounding colors appear brighter. It adds dramatic contrast when used with bright colors and creates a timeless look when paired with elegant white. 

Elegant contrast of ‘Black Heart’

One of our favorite foliage plants to use in black is ipomoea. We like the added drama of a trailing sweet potato vine, with its striking leaf shapes. These vines are vigorous and hold their dark color even in the heat of summer, especially ‘Sweet Caroline Jet Black’—it’s about as close to true black as you can get, especially when it’s planted in full sun.

Now ‘Jet Black’ has a pointed, heart-shaped leaf, and so does ‘Black Heart’. You’ll spot the difference, however—‘Black Heart’ is more of a purple-garnet as opposed to ‘Jet Black’s’ true black. ‘Solar Power’ has a different leaf shape altogether—it’s narrow and deeply cut, but the color lines up closer to ‘Black Heart’.

‘Sweet Caroline Jet Black’ comes in the 4.5-inch pot size. ‘Black Heart’ comes in the 6-inch pot. ‘Solar Power Black’ is available in the 1801 flat and the 6-inch pot. 

Coleus ‘Inferno’

‘Inferno’ tied for 1st place in the Vote for Your Favorite Coleus contest at Field Day back in August. In addition to that, it was on top of the heap at the University of Georgia, University of Tennessee, Michigan State trials, and Missouri Botanical Garden trials. It’s easy to see why.

Striking serrated foliage is flushed with stunning orange that stays consistently brilliant for weeks on end, even in shade. We can thank the fact that it’s so late flowering for all that long-lasting color. When it does flower, pinch the plant back to keep the warm, rich tones smoldering. 

A large urn filled with ‘Inferno’ might be mistaken for a fire pit, and a mass planting flickers in the landscape. Pair this coleus with ‘EnduraScape Purple’ verbena and blue angelonia to bring out the intensity of the “flames”. 

We grow ‘Inferno’ in the 4.5 and 8-inch pot sizes. ‘EnduraScape Purple’ is available in the 8-inch pot.