The only Mermaid I've seen in real life was at ARE in Brenham TX. It was being grown as a tree, with a four or five inch diameter trunk. It must have been 20 ft high and nearly 20 ft across. No supports. I can only hope my several apple trees approach that size. Lovely dark, glossy foliage. Like a magnolia. As much as I admired it, I think I'd rather have a magnolia.
I'm trying to grow clematis among my roses right now. I cannot yet claim any victories. Clematis Josephine is in the vicinity of rose Chevy Chase and grew about half as high last year. Not quite the effect I was going for... Still, if it works, there will be a touch of irony to it, as roses are expected to be the 'big' flowers.
I've been contemplating moving a very young Hurdy Gurdy near a very young Don Juan so they grow together. And maybe create a touch of confusion.
In the spot were I've tried Dublin Bay, every plant is nibbled to the ground instantly except lavender. Even iris and euphorbia disappear quickly. Plants in pots survive. And, occasionally, those more than waist high when planted. Perhaps we shall try again. Yellow Lady Banks has survived almost a whole season, and will probably win the space for itself in a few more seasons. Then I will have to interplant it with some other climber for flowers later in the season. Suggestions welcome...
