These shade-loving natives of Europe and Asia are among the most desirable
perennials for leafy bowers or shady nooks. They are easy to grow in average
to damp soil and require little maintenance. We offer a lovely old favorite
named P. saccharata 'Mrs. Moon'. Its 12in-long leaves are lavishly dappled
with silvery spots. In April and May, graceful clusters of rosy buds on 12in
stems open to flowers that start pink and age to deep blue. Buds, flowers in
both stages, and the arresting foliage collaborate to create the effect of a
luminous tapestry. 'Mrs. Moon' makes an exquisite underplanting for Dicentra,
Hostas, and spring-flowering bulbs. Not suited to growing conditions in the
desert Southwest.