A Beacon at Brucemore

 Deb Engmark, head gardener at Brucemore, shares her photos and observations of what caught her eye on the grounds of the historic estate in Cedar Rapids:

 Stockings are hung, trees are decorated, and the table is set for Christmas Eve dinner. Brucemore is ready for the holidays.  But, while greening the last of the outdoor containers at the mansion entrance my eye was drawn to a lovely, glimmering sheen at the edge of the formal garden.

 The glimmering plant was Lamium “Beacon Silver,” which was planted late in 2008's growing season.  Beacon Silver was placed under a limbed-up arborvitae in a new bed intended to mimic a bed on the other side of the garden, both of which face the mansion. These two beds are curvilinear in shape and planted with shrubs and perennials; the foliage's varying degrees of texture and color blend with the landscape beyond while providing both a curtain and boundary for the formal garden within.

 Beacon Silver is classified as a groundcover and grows 6 to 12 inches tall and 12 to 24 inches wide. It is hardy in zones 3 to 8, grows in full sun to full shade, and can be planted in average, well drained garden soil. Though Beacon Silver benefits from regular, deep watering the first year, it does have a high drought tolerance once established. Deer resistant and rabbit resistant, this is an attractive option for those trying to garden peacefully with wildlife.

The narrow green margins on the heart shaped, silver- white leaves suggest a metallic element in the makeup of the plant, causing it to glow brightly in the otherwise subdued colors of late autumn. As its name implies Lamium “Beacon Silver” will attract attention.  At least for a little while longer.