02/99-06 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For more information contact: Christine Kelleher, 800-232-9557, Ext. 512 or Gary Doerr, 916-716-1889

Literally translated, ‘Brise d’Anjou’ means "Breeze of Anjou." As one of the few variegated forms of Jacob’s Ladder to survive cultivation and the only one available in sufficient quantities for commercial trade, this new perennial from Blooms of Bressingham North America brings a breath of fresh air to the perennial garden.

‘Brise d’Anjou’ is a new plant collector’s delight. Its luxurious creamy-edged, fern-like foliage holds its variegation on handsome, textured clumps until fall frosts. As a bonus, violet-blue flowers appear from late spring to midsummer.

Plants are normally hardy in the Northeast, upper Midwest and Pacific Northwest, even during hot summer months. In more southern states, plants may "melt down" from extended exposure to heat and humidity. Shade is a must in these hotter regions.

‘Brise d’Anjou’ prefers rich, moist and well-drained soil. Plant four plants per square yard in partially shaded to fully shaded borders or rock gardens. Expect them to grow to 18- to 24-inches tall by 18- to 24-inches wide. Shear plants after flowering for a later flush of blooms, if desired, or simply enjoy the variegated foliage all summer long.

The plant texture and character combine nicely with Goat’s Beard (Aruncus dioicus), Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), Garden Phlox (try Phlox paniculata ‘Eva Cullum’ or ‘Franz Schubert’) and most Ornamental Grasses. Mass plantings can also be used in conjunction with Astilbe, Bergenia (try Bergenia ‘Bressingham Ruby’), Hardy Ferns, Hosta, Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis) and Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum).

Picture available