Common name:Japanese Silver Grass, Maiden grass
Botanical name:Miscanthus sinensis

Miscanthus is a large group of ornamental grasses ranging from a few feet to over 7 or 8 feet tall. Blade colors range from solid green, to green with silver mid-ribs, to variegated forms. Plumes are generally held well above foliage clumps, appearing in late summer to early fall, depending on the variety, and may be cut for fresh or dry arrangements.

Common name:Beacon Silver Dead Nettle
Botanical name:Lamium maculatum 'Beacon Silver '

'Beacon Silver' is another lamium cultivar, with silver-white leaves and green margins. The margin between the white and green areas seems more crisp than in 'White Nancy.' Grows about 6 inches tall and 18 to 24 inches wide by underground runners. Has small pink flowers in late spring to early summer. A great groundcover for partial shady to shady areas.

Common name:Gloriosa Daisy
Botanical name:Rudbeckia hirta

Gloriosa daisy are a species of Rudbeckia known for their large flowers in a variety of warm tones. Blooming from mid to late summer and sometimes into the fall, colors range from clear oranges to russet reds, mahogany to brown, many with colored striations on their petals or different-colored eyes. Foliage is lance-like and deep green. Somewhat shorter-lived than R. fulgida or nitida, they are still lovely additions to a summer garden. Heights depend on variety, but generally 20 to 36 inches tall and wide. Slightly less drought tolerant than the other species.

Common name:Bearded Iris
Botanical name:Iris Bearded Hybrids

Bearded iris are a garden staple, and for good cause. They are available in every conceivable color, and combinations of colors, and their erect, vertical nature makes them distinctive in the garden. Leaves tend to be strap-like, and green, blue-green, or grey-green, depending on the cultivar. Flowers bloom early summer for about a month or so. Some have fragrant flowers. They make excellent cut flowers, and seem to fit well into either informal or formal designs. Also called German Iris.

Common name:Western Water Birch
Botanical name:Betula occidentalis

Western Water Birch is a small tree or shrub, growing 20 to 30 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet wide. It tends to grow as a clump with upright, ascending branches. Leaves are oval, sharply pointed, prominently veined, and dark green. Fall color is yellow to orange. Spring catkins and small cone-like fruits mature in the fall and persist into winter, providing interest and forage for birds. Bark is smooth, reddish brown, with thin, cream lenticels (rather like a cherry tree). A Utah native.