Chimes Tower District

Hardy begonia, is a shade-loving perennial native to China and Japan, valued for its ability to thrive in temperate gardens, unusual for a begonia. A member of the Begoniaceae family, ‘Alba’ features elegant, heart-shaped green leaves with striking red veining on the undersides and delicate clusters of nodding white flowers that bloom from midsummer into fall. The flowers are edible, with a slightly tangy, citrus-like flavor, making them a charming garnish for salads or desserts. Unlike most begonias, this variety dies back in winter and re-emerges from bulb-like tubers in spring, adding graceful texture and late-season interest to shaded gardens or woodland borders. It can be a bit assertive in the garden, spreading readily, so watch out if you want to keep it contained! Check out the straight species Begonia grandis, with light pink flowers growing in the Peony Garden, and Hillside Garden & Chimes Tower.  

Viburnum nudum ‘Longwood’ is an essential, multi-season shrub that brings beauty to the garden year-round! A cultivated variety of the native smooth witherod viburnum, this deciduous shrub features glossy green leaves, clusters of creamy white flowers in late spring, and vibrant berries that ripen from pink to deep blue in fall, often showing both colors at once for a striking two-tone effect. In autumn, the foliage turns rich shades of burgundy and purple, adding even more seasonal interest. ‘Longwood’ is prized for its compact, upright habit and excellent berry production, especially when planted near another Viburnum nudum variety for cross-pollination. It thrives in moist, acidic soils and full sun to part shade, and it's a fantastic choice for native plant gardens, pollinator habitats, or low-maintenance landscapes. Plus, it’s a hit with birds and bees alike!  

Vernonia glauca is a native plant with several common names including Appalachian ironweed due to its native range primarily following the Appalachian Mountains. It is known to be drought and moisture tolerant and attracts pollinators including the American painted lady butterfly, of which it is the host plant. This plant has traditionally been used by the Cherokee as an analgesic as well as a treatment for stomach ulcers. 

Blooming from mid summer to early fall, panicle hydrangea gets its name from its large, showy panicles of flowers.  Leaving the dried flowerheads on the plant can add interesting forms and textures to the garden in winter.  Combined with its long bloom time, panicle hydrangea offers nearly year-round interest. Find a variety of cultivars of Hydrangea paniculata as well as other species of Hydrangea in bloom throughout the gardens!