Planning and planting for a better world

Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter Number 2; Winter 1998

ing ornamental features of . teaching, research and outreach. Director’s Letter I am excited about the new year My plans include talking with and and all it has to offer the arboretum. visiting many of the growers that JC Warm winter greetings from the JC Our emphasis will continue to focus worked with over the years to Raulston Arboretum! I hope your on what I am calling the “Three P’s”: continue to cultivate these very holidays were as gratifying and plants, people and programs. To special relationships. relaxing as they were for me. What that end, I will be able to devote a great time of year to enjoy plants more time to my responsibilities as Jonathan has put together a in the garden that display unique director. My teaching duties for the fantastic Friends of the Arboretum and special ornamental features. spring semester have been signifi- Lecture series for the winter and As a child growing up in New cantly reduced. I will be teaching spring season. Be sure to check England, I loved to go outside one introductory horticulture course the calendar of events and mark the immediately after a heavy snowfall. and still serving as Undergraduate dates. I will look forward to seeing I would venture down to the pond in Coordinator. you there! Be sure to keep Sunday, the meadow behind my house and May 3rd open on your calendar. lie beneath the three huge white My plans for the winter and spring You don’t want to miss the Gala in pines that were growing on the include spending one day a week the Garden, a tremendous garden shore. The sound of the cold winter in the garden collecting, propagat- party event for all friends of the wind passing through the fine ing, planting, and evaluating plants. arboretum. textured needles created a sooth- I will be assisting the staff and ing, magical sound that I will never volunteers on many of the garden It is time to highlight a few people forget. I also enjoyed climbing projects, leading tours and meeting and direct your attention to some of those very same trees so high that I with visitors. Another goal will be to the activities in which they have was hidden from view amongst the photograph plants that show been involved. Kudos to Viv branches. Pinus strobus is a great seasonal interest by month, result- Finklestein who developed a new climbing tree because of its “wagon ing in a library of slides winter self-guided tour of the wheel” branching pattern along the displaying unique features from arboretum. Be sure to check it out main trunk. Each set of branches is January to December. Jonathan before the season ends. Keep an about four feet apart making it Nyberg is calling me the “Curator of eye on the Lath House; our new perfect for easy climbing. You Beauty!” I will also be working on curator, Charlotte Presley, is busy cannot help getting pine resin all putting together two or three new improving that garden. For you web over your hands, a one to three day topical self-guided tours. I look surfers out there, be sure to check reminder of your climb. So let’s be forward to working with curators out the JC Raulston Arboretum extra observant in our gardens this and the many volunteers who World Wide Web page. You will be winter. We might discover, or even donate countless hours to the amazed to see what is available re-discover some wonderful winter growth and maintenance of our there. What’s more amazing than feature just waiting to show itself to garden. This also includes working the web page itself is that it has us. That is exactly one of the things with the many faculty members in been created and is maintained by I will be doing at the arboretum this the Department of Horticultural Dr. Art Kelley. Art is an arboretum winter, observing and photograph- Science who use the arboretum for See Director’s Letter, page 20 Winter 1998 Page 1 Table Plant News...... 3 Arboretum Tours...... 10 Garden News...... 6 Volunteer News...... 12 of Development News...... 7 Publication News...... 14 RegionalNews...... 8 JC...... 16 Mapping News...... 8 Reviews & Previews...... 17 Contents Travel News...... 9 Classified Advertising...... 20

Investing, Environmental Ethics, They also buy horticultural and Editor’s Mailbox The Bizarre World of Paracytes and botanical books. a Tour of the Maymont Flower and Garden Show. Many, many others. Carol Barnett Books, 3562 NE Congratulations, Diane! Phone: 919-515-5782. Fax: 919- Liberty St. , Portland, OR 97211. 515-5778. e-mail: WWW: http:// Phone: 503-282-7036. Diane Flynt, formerly on the Arbore- www2.ncsu.edu/encore/. tum staff and always one of our Elisabeth Woodburn, Books PO best supporters, was awarded the Showtime Box 398, Hopewell, NJ 08525. Garden Design Magazine Golden 609-466-0522. Including a 1636 A recent news release by NC State Trowel award for her garden in Gerard’s Herball for $2850.00, and information services announced our Greensboro, NC. Congratulations, Mrs. Jane Loudon’s The Ladies Holidays Decorations Workshop Diane!! Take a look in the Dec. 97/ Flower Garden of Ornamental being taught by Kathleen Turner! Jan. 98 issue for a peek at her Bulbous Plants, 1841, for $3250.00. Kathleen Thompson is reportedly award-winning garden. She also Plus 67 other intriguing titles of all enjoying her new persona. wrote a nice article that begins, “I prices. JC often spoke of garden with ghosts.” Great first Woodburn’s wonderful collection of line. Recent Catalogs horticultural books. We were The following are book catalogs delighted to see this new listing Euthanasia received this fall, as if you didn’t from her. From the CENTS trade show listing, have enough to tempt you already. “Dr. Treevorkian will discuss his top Timber Press, 133 SW Second Ave, ten methods of assisted herbicide.” The Food Products Press, Agricul- Suite 450, Portland, OR 97204. (Jim Chatfield, Ohio State Exten- ture and Horticulture Books 10 Phone: 800-327-5680. e-mail: sion) Alice St. Binghamton, NY 13904. www.timber-press.com. Continues Phone: 1-800-Haworth, e-mail: to be on the cutting-edge of horti- Encore, Encore! [email protected]. An excellent cultural publishing with Dirr’s Hardy selection of textbooks, journals on Trees and Shrubs and other great ■ For people with time during the day such topics as agroforestry, books in every new catalog. and a desire for education, you agromedicine, horticultural therapy, couldn’t do much better than the aquaculture, nutrition, viticulture. Encore, Center for Lifelong Enrich- These are books that you won’t find Correction ment program at the McKimmon in your local bookstore. They also Center on NC State Campus have a high-quality horticultural The last issue of the Newsletter (plenty of easy access parking). poster listing. listed a plant as Liquidambar Classes are on a wide range of styraciflua ‘Starlight’. This plant topics and taught by NC State Brooks Books, Specializing in has definitely been determined professors who donate their time. Botany and Ornamental Horticul- to be the same plant as L. Samples include: Adventures of a ture. PO Box 21473, Concord, CA styraciflua ‘Frosty’, selected by Botanist in Italy, An Overview of the 94521. Phone: 510-672-456. e- Tony Avent. Geology of North Carolina, Wine mail: [email protected] 539 Sensing, A Woman’s Guide to listings of previously owned books.

Page 2 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter Callistemon citrinus -“Crimson with 3 lobed leaves characterized by Bottlebrush” (Myrtaceae) A vigor- white coloration at the lobes. Easy Plant ous evergreen shrub to 15’. The to root and hardier than Fatsia narrow and rigid foliage is lemon japonica. scented when crushed. The flowers Jasminum iraidii (Oleaceae) New are crimson on dense spikes in species from not in U.S. News summer. Callistemons like dry cultivation. Hardiness and charac- conditions and are very hardy, and teristics unknown, thought to be tolerant of full sun. Zone 8. evergreen, though leaves turn Chamaecyparis thyoides ‘Tom’s brownish green in winter. 1998 Blue’ (Cupressaceae) A blue Mahonia trifoliata var. glauca selection of our native Eastern or (Berberidaceae) An attractive, Green and Growin’ Atlantic White Cedar. It is nearly as medium sized evergreen for full sun. Display Plants blue as some of the bluer This rare shrub from Western Texas Cupressus cultivars and should be to Northern Mexico differs from very much more tolerant of heavy, by Mitzi Hole and Bryce Lane other Mahonias in its trifoliate damp soil than Cupressus, consid- glaucous, almost white leaves. ering its native habitat of acid soil The Green and Growin’ Show is an Each leaflet is like an American from Maine to Florida and Missis- annual conference and trade show Holly (Ilex opaca) in shape. Flowers sippi. This tree is not dwarf or slow for nursery professionals, land- are yellow. Berries are red and growing, and so could reach 50’ or scape contractors, commercial currantlike. Sun? hardiness? taller. Sun; Zone 5. flower growers, and other members Perhaps Zone 7. of the green industry. The following Chamaedaphne calyculata ‘Ver- Osmanthus fragrans f. aurantiacus plants were displayed in the Arbore- dant’ -“Leatherleaf” or “Cossondra” ‘Conger Yellow’ (Oleaceae) A large tum booth at this January show in (Ericaceae) “Leatherleaf” or by evergreen shrub with olive green Winston-Salem, NC. These plants “Cossondra” is a close relative to spiny leaves. Flowers in late are under evaluation for landscape Leucothoe. This member of the summer are strongly fragrant. The potential at the Arboretum. Ericaceae has similar white, urn- form aurantiacus has bright orange shaped flowers towards the tips of Agave deserti (Agavaceae) This flowers. ‘Conger Yellow’ has bright the branches in early spring. It agave has grey-green leaves yellow flowers. Hardier than normal differs from Leucothoe in its scaley 18”x2” wide. It is from the Sonoran Osmanthus fragrans. leaves. It is native to Eastern Asia, Desert and has yellow flowers. usually on moist, sandy sites. A Podocarpus acutifolius Probably hardy to Zone 8. Full sun; small shrub to 2’-3’. Sun or light (Podocarpaceae) A small, erect, may require protected microclimate. shade, Zone 2. evergreen conifer with slender Agave lophanthe (Agavaceae) The branches and 5/8” to 1” long, Chrysanthemum weyrichii seeds were collected for this agave narrow, dull-green, gold-green or (Asteraceae) Superb low growing in San Jose. Green leaves are brown-green needles which taper to mum to 8-12”. Forms a dense marked with white. Zone 7. a fine point. Native to New Zealand. clump and spreads by stolons. Probably Zone 8. Amsonia hubrechtii (Apocynaceae) Pink flowers in the fall. Herbaceous perennial with whitish- Rhaphiolepis indica ‘Blueberry Euscaphis japonica blue to lavender spikes of flowers in Muffin’ (Rosaceae) A superior (Staphyleaceae) One of JC’s early spring. Tolerates hot dry selection of Rhaphiolepis indica with favorites, originally from . conditions. Develops superb a dense rounded habit. White Compound foliage with clusters of golden orange fall color. flowering with black , this cultivar showy red fruit in the fall. Grows to develops dynamic purple winter Arum italicum (Araceae) This 30’ and has interesting bark. color. perennial is dormant in summer Young stems develop a burgundy with the tropical looking foliage color in winter. An incredible small Styrax japonicus ‘Snowfall’ emerging in winter. Grows best tree with loads of winter potential. (Styracaceae) A new selection of with winter sun and summer shade Styrax japonicus that the Arboretum Fatsia japonica ‘Variegata’ under deciduous shrubs and trees. is helping to release. Cuttings (Araliaceae) Medium-large shrub Hardy to Zone 6. See 1998, next page Winter 1998 Page 3 PlantPlant NewsNews Plant News Plant News seeds mature at the end of the equate regeneration measures and 1998, continued growing season in September to changes to the hydrology of the rooted well and came from a October and are dispersed from land. Reproduction of Atlantic white superior plant on NCSU campus. It October to March. cedar is primarily through natural has a more dense and rounded seeding with some sprouting habit than other selections and Although Atlantic white cedar occurs occurring in areas browsed heavily displays prolific slightly fragrant over a large area, pure stands are by deer. However, white cedar white flowers. relatively small. The tree occurs on usually fails to regenerate naturally wet sites in acidic, fresh-water after logging when no measures are Viburnum tinus ‘ Bewley’s Varie- swamps and bogs near sea level taken to control competing vegeta- gated’ (Caprifoliaceae) Beautifully and along stream banks. They tion. Attempts at artificial regenera- variegated cultivar of the evergreen usually grow on hummocks slightly tion have failed due in part to the ‘Laurestinus.’ Medium to large elevated above the forest floor. inability to produce enough seed- shrub (to 10’) with a dense, bushy Stands of Atlantic white cedar occur lings on a production scale due to a habit. Full sun to partial shade. on shallow peat covered soils. very poor seed to seedling ratio. From the Mediterranean and hardy Cedar wetlands provide a refuge for to Zone 7. ■ rare, endangered, or threatened Due to extensive reclamation species of plants and animals. efforts, there is increasing demand Seedlings are also a favorite for transplants of Atlantic white A Great Native browse for deer, rabbits, and cedar. According to Hinesley et al. Evergreen: meadow mice. Excessive browsing (1994), propagation of Atlantic white Atlantic White Cedar by deer has been attributed to cedar by cuttings is easy with reduction of Atlantic white cedar nearly 100% rooting for softwood by Laura G. Jull regeneration in the New Jersey cuttings and 83% for hardwood Pine Region following clear cutting cuttings. IBA treatment was unnec- Atlantic white cedar(Chamaecyparis or wildfires. essary for stimulating rooting, but it thyoides (L.) B. S. P.) also known as increased the number of roots. southern white cedar, swamp cedar The yield of white cedar in pure or white cedar, has a wide distribu- stands is large, due to its long trunk Seed germination requirements tion. This evergreen tree grows in a and narrow crown. The wood is so depend on the provenance (geo- narrow coastal belt, 80-209 km wide extremely resistant to decay that old graphic seed source). Thus, from the southern coast of Maine to trees, buried in peat bogs, are stratification (moist pre-chilling), South Carolina, with isolated stands harvested for use. Because of this temperature and light treatments in Georgia and eastern Florida, and property, the wood is used for needed to maximize germination a large stand occurring from the house siding and outdoor furniture. will vary with the provenance. In panhandle of Florida to Mississippi. It also has potential for use in general, stratification at 4 degrees According to Dirr (1990), this wetlands reclamation, as an orna- C. for 60 to 90 days is necessary to species of Chamaecyparis is the mental and for Christmas trees. maximize germination. After only one native to the eastern Understocks from Atlantic white stratification, seed germination can United States. cedar can also be used to graft be maximized using alternating superior cultivars of other species of temperatures of 30/20 degrees C. The narrow, conical form of the tree Chamaecyparis Spach (Raulston and photoperiods greater than or supports horizontal to pendulous and Tripp, 1992). equal to one hour. Seed viability is branches with soft foliage. The tree inherently poor, thus requiring reaches a height of 12-22 m with Throughout its range, natural stands rigorous seed grading prior to mature trees devoid of branches for of Atlantic white cedar are diminish- sowing. Nurserymen are cautioned 3/4 of its height. Mature cones are ing rapidly. Acreage of white cedar not to cover the seeds following only 0.6-1.3 cm in diameter, spheri- in North Carolina alone has de- sowing since they are relatively cal, bluish-purple turning brown clined by as much as 90% within small and require light to maximize when mature. Each cone consists the last two centuries. Stands are germination. ■ of 6-10 scales with each scale diminishing due to extensive bearing 1-5 rounded, 3 mm long drainage, agricultural clearing, seeds with thin marginal wings. The wildfires and logging. This destruc- tion has been followed by inad- Page 4 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter a path where the computer lines them were still leaning. We Garden were put in. In case something has decided to remove them and do to be dug up, we won’t have to another planting in that little en- remove any woody plants again. trance way. We’ve got some nice We are also planting a hedge along Japanese maples and dwarf News the fence to screen the businesses conifers that were given to us by on the other side. We are planting Rob Means of Yackinville Nursery. a mixture of fast growing conifers, We’re hoping to make that area deciduous trees and dwarf conifers more attractive. — only about two or three of each kind. One thing of interest are The Southall Garden area, until Notes from Mitzi some oak seedlings from seeds recently, suffered from Hedera helix by Mitzi Hole that were collected by Yucca-Do growing up into the trees and the Nursery on a recent Mexican trip. plant beds, making it difficult for Editor’s note: For the past year, We also installed aluminum siding other plants in the bed to grow. Mitzi has shouldered the awesome along the fence in hope that it will I’ve been having students and responsibility of maintaining the keep the bamboo roots on the other volunteers remove the ivy. We did grounds at the Arboretum. This side of the fence from coming over a planting of boxwood in there, and includes several greenhouses and into the West Arboretum. Of course it looks very different without the ivy. the nursery area. Mitzi is the only we know that it’s probably a big Volunteers and students have also full-time staff member of the Arbore- joke. It’s going to be an ongoing been removing ivy in the parking lot tum. Even with part-time help and battle back there, but hopefully, it is bed around the two Quercus volunteers, maintaining eight acres one that we can stay ahead of now phellos. We’ve planted several of intense plantings is a lot of work. since we’ve done all this work deciduous azaleas from the Lath Thanks Mitzi, for all of your hard getting out most of the bamboo House in that bed and are hoping work and leadership in keeping the roots. Thanks to everyone from that the removal of the ivy will give plants (and cats) alive and looking campus maintenance that helped them a chance to thrive. good! us out in this project. Special thanks are due to Paul Lineberger The Klein-Pringle White Garden The West Arboretum has a new for help on this, and so many other has seen a lot of changes, too. Co- look. You will recall from the things — I don’t know what we curators Karen Jones, Ann Owens summer Update that we decided to would do without Paul. and Jeff Briggs have planted eradicate the bamboo in the far- extensive hedges of dwarf yaupon west part of the Arboretum. We cut Another major undertaking has holly where originally they had it back to the ground, and treated it been the removal of Magnolia plans to put in a rock wall. The with Round-up, but there were still grandiflora cultivars in the East hedge gives the garden a nice stubs. This fall, NCSU campus Arboretum behind the Necessary. feeling by helping to connect all the maintenance put in a computer line Pat McCracken, the magnolia White Garden. We were so ecstatic from the back of the research curator, wants to try new magnolia that the Illicium floridanum ‘Alba’ station to the Cercis collection at cultivars. We are hoping this area we dug and moved from the West the manhole. This was quite a will be planted soon. It looks a little Arboretum thrived beside the pool. construction nightmare, with bare right now when you’re used to It was almost totally defoliated by cement trucks and backhoes that area being so thickly planted, the time we planted it, but it leapt digging 5’ trenches and pouring but that is part of what the Arbore- out this summer and was just concrete. We had to dig several tum does: plant, evaluate, dig-up, absolutely spectacular! It has trees in order for them to get the and plant again! several new buds on it, so I think it trucks in here. While they were will be beautiful next spring and back there, they automatically dug Another recent change has to do summer. up some bamboo roots and stubs. with the Leyland Cypress at the Paul Lineberger, the farm superin- entrance to the Japanese Garden. The White Garden is not only white. tendent, asked them if they would They had gotten large and un- It has had wonderful fall color. The be willing to dig up the rest of the sightly. Several fell when Hurricane Hydrangea quercifolia, Fothergilla bamboo roots. Thankfully, they said Fran went through and some of yes. We then sowed grass to make See Mitzi, next page Winter 1998 Page 5 Garden News Garden News Garden News

Mitzi, continued other area that looks like it has ‘Mt. Airy’ and Itea virginiana been devastated, ’Henry’s Garnet’, have had spec- but like everything tacular red-bronze fall color. At this else here — out moment, the Camellia oleifera is in with the old and full bloom. This camellia was dug truck in the new. by the DOT tree spade from one part of the White Garden and I want to give you transplanted to the entrance of the an idea of the scale grass lawn that goes to the gazebo. of propagation and We were all keeping our fingers plants that we have crossed because it is such an for different pro- integral part of the garden — and grams. We have it’s so beautiful. It looks like it is one fiberglass and going to survive. Karen and Mitzi bag a six foot black bambo rhizome one poly green- house that are Another spectacular feature of the packed full with plants for the cuttings. This year many of them White Garden is the Styrax japonica winter. We have two greenhouses were larger. I had wonderful ‘Emerald Pagoda’. It was trans- that NCAN provided, one of which volunteer help to bag those plants planted by tree spade from the field is full with cuttings taken for our up and get labels on them. Valerie nursery. It is near the path coming joint venture, the JC Raulston Tyson and Catherine Gaertner were from the perennial border. It was in Selections. The other house hasn’t great in helping me come up with full bloom last spring. When the been installed with bottom heat or labels. We actually had a printed petals fell, it looked as if it had a mist system yet, so we’ve been label with a little blurb of information snowed on the ground — breathtak- letting plants that we just potted up on each plant. ing! I had more questions about harden-off in there. On campus we that Styrax than anything else at the have a propagation house with two I’d like to say how wonderful my time. Be sure not to miss it this beds for rooting cuttings. After the help has been this summer and fall, year. fall semester is over, we get eight especially Karen Jones. I had two more beds which the propagation students that had to do volunteer Patricia Highland and Nancy Knight class has used in the fall. We keep work through the parks and recre- are changing the Almanac Garden these beds pretty much full of ation class. They were just great. into a butterfly garden. They spend plants as well as a large number of All of the volunteers, as usual, have a lot of time taking plants in and out seed trays for germinating seeds. been wonderful. I don’t know how of there. Keep your eyes on that we would do things here if it wasn’t garden, it’s going to be very inter- We get seeds and cuttings from for the volunteers. I am constantly esting. We’re looking forward to many sources: Shanghai Botanical amazed at how well they work seeing the results of their design. Garden, Yucca-do-Nursery (from together. Their enthusiasm and another Mexican trip), and indi- good ideas keep me going more In the Mixed Shrub Border, you will viduals such as Tony Avent (from than they know. Val and Catherine notice that we are digging up many his China trip) and Valerie Tyson — Gaertner have been so helpful with ornamental grasses. The grasses just to name a few. We are very labels. They have kept me on track currently planted have been around lucky to have a lot of input from about recording on our maps where a long time and have all grown nurseries and friends. We’re we plant and remove. We will miss together. Many of the labels are keeping the plant sharing alive. Catherine Gaertner when she is missing and they just aren’t looking When we did the NCAN distribution gone. What a good job she has that good. John and Jill Hoffman, in August, we distributed 120 done with mapping, helping the of Hoffman’s Nursery, have volun- packages of plants that we had volunteer labelers and curators find teered to curate a new grass grown. We also mailed out 50 plants in the Arboretum. garden. I’ve been getting students boxes of plants to nurseries, and volunteers dig up and remove universities and arboreta across That’s all I have for this newletter. I grasses so John and Jill can plant the country. In the past, some of hope everyone will come out to see their new selections. That’s an- the plants were freshly rooted us this year. ■ Page 6 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter Development Gala News in the Garden set for May 3

The days are getting longer, and spring is closer than you think. The Gala in the Garden is only weeks away! Mark you calendars for May 3, and start shopping for the perfect spring hat. The 1998 Gala in the Garden Steering Committee has great things in store.

Honorary chairmen James and Mary Jo Pringle

Co-chairmen Peggy Fain Karen Jones receives Klein-Pringle Internship May McMillan Benson On October 14, 1997 Mitzi Hole and the declining garden. She contin- Committee Catherine Maxwell presented Karen ued in that volunteer role after Ollie Adams Jones with the Klein-Pringle White starting work at the Arboretum later Linda Anderson Garden Internship, a special award that winter. Karen Barnes in recognition of her leadership in Judy Blondeau renovating the White Garden. Karen recruited landscape architect Dee Bull Jeff Briggs to create the plan for the Tim and Carroll Clancy “We want this to be in remem- renovation. JC Raulston was brance of all the work done in the delighted with the plan, and an- Angela Dillard Klein-Pringle White Garden through nounced at the Gala in the Garden Marty Finkel cold, rotten weather and other in May that he would find funding Julie Fleming adversities,” said Mary Jo Pringle. and complete the garden in time for Pickett Guthrie “We really appreciate Karen, Mitzi, the 1997 gala. Thanks to the Nancy Monteith Jeff (Briggs), and Catherine for the generosity of the Pringles and the Marjorie O’Keeffe planning, digging, planting, tele- hard work of all involved, his words Karen Nowell phone calls, coordination, and all proved prophetic. Mary Overcash the work it took to complete the Lou and Marcie Pucillo garden.” Karen continues to care for the Barbara Robinson Klein-Pringle White Garden with co- Karen became the curator of the curators Jeff Briggs and Ann Susan Stevenson White Garden in the fall of 1995, Owens. They are now working to Marian Taylor when she was a student in horticul- fine tune the garden, and promise Kathleen Thompson ture at NC State. Right away, even greater things for the spring of JW and Elizabeth York Karen began her drive to renovate 1998. ■ Rosemary York

Winter 1998 Page 7 Regional News Mapping News

Regional You may find that it does just fine. in the Parking Lot, moved to the And you haven’t lost much if it dies.” West Arboretum, switched over to the Lath House as Rosemary went News Avent suggests trying new plants, into intense renovation mode, and like JC Raulston, he travels the moved back to the west beds, then world to find new plants to grow at on to Southhall, the Japanese, his nursery. When he has decided Theme and White Gardens. Now High Point that they will adapt to our gardens, she is leaving us for a better and when he has sufficient sup- pasture, but the news is not all bad. Gardeners Enjoy a plies, he offers them to the public. The company Catherine will be Delightful Evening working for offers educational and Our thanks to event chairman programming services for the Shirley Duncan, and committee by Nell Lewis mapping software we use, so she members Doris Deal, Marianne will be learning more about how to The High Point Friends of the JC Hayworth, Mary Grace Megginson, make our life easier. Not only that, Raulston Arboretum at NC State Vera Fick, Ginny Fick, Evelyn she negotiated spending some of held a dinner at the Emerywood Wood, Joe Minchak, Mary Louise her time each year working with us! Country Club November 5. Ap- Stone, Hilde Errico, Karen Noble, So, kudos and thanks to Catherine proximately 175 gardeners came to Georgia Orr, Irma Price, Norma for all her hard work, past and hear speaker Tony Avent, owner of Horney and their committee in High future, and for sharing her plant Plant Delights Nursery in Raleigh, Point for sharing a delightful encounters with us in the last ■ and a close associate of Raulston’s. evening. newsletter as well.

They came from Salisbury, Lexing- Joel Schuman has joined the ton, Thomasville, Kernersville, Arboretum staff to help maintain the Greensboro, Randleman, map records that Catherine set up. Asheboro, Burlington, Reidsville, Mapping He’s a horticulture graduate student and points in between. They were studying strawberries, and seems people who knew and appreciated very comfortable at the computer. Raulston and who still mourn his Welcome, Joel! death. They came to enjoy the News speaker who shares a wealth of Martie Walsh has recently begun knowledge — with delightful humor. our Narcissus identification and Notes from Val mapping project. Brent Heath of He indicated beforehand that he The Daffodil Mart has offered to by Valerie Tyson usually showed slides, and he identify our Narcissus if we send seemed a bit concerned about his As the year ends, we find ourselves him pictures of them. This sounds program. Not to worry. Without in much better shape with regard to simple on the surface, but we have props, without notes, he kept the plant records and maps. Catherine records of over 500 bulb plantings rapt attention of his audience. Gaertner joined us last March, throughout the Arboretum, and they taking on the huge task of getting refuse to bloom in a neat and He stressed organic gardening, the rest of the Arboretum beds onto orderly schedule. Anyone inter- noting that chemical fertilizers can the computer maps. Using the ested in helping Martie organize all mean death to plants. Without results of the Mapping Extrava- the different map, photo and name man’s interference, plants thrive on ganza last January/February, and information, or even just going on the buildup of organic material that old maps and lists we had on file “bulb patrol” to watch for new nature provides. (most unbelievably unreadable—I’m blossoms should call Martie at sure some of you remember those), 833-2462 ■ “I consider a plant hardy until I have and prevailing on visiting and local killed it myself — three times,” experts to help with identification, Avent said. We need to experiment she chipped away at an overwhelm- with plants. If one is not zoned for ing job. The East Arboretum beds your area, exactly, try it anyway. had been done once, so she started

Page 8 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter nied by Barry Yinger, and the late Friday 9-26-97 Travel Dr. Ted Dudley of the US National Arising early the next morning, we Arboretum went on the first of again took the shuttle back to the seven proposed collecting trips into airport to pick up our rental van, much of the horticulturally unex- which was indeed a chore as the News plored regions of South Korea. This rental agent spoke only broken first trip, from August to November English. With van in hand, we had of 1985, concentrated on the West only to wait for our other partici- coast, and the islands off the pants to arrive, Bleddyn and Sue Southwest corner of the mainland. Wynn-Jones of Wales. By 9:30 Due to political complications, the a.m., we assembled the group, 1997 remaining six proposed expeditions became acquainted and headed Expedition to were cancelled. Our expedition south for our trip to the Chollipo was designed to quickly traverse Arboretum. Bleddyn offered to be South Korea the mainland, and at least two of our designated driver for the trip, by Tony Avent the main islands, Cheju and Ullung. since as Sue put it, ”he makes a Our exploration group consisted of terrible passenger.” I can only tell Editors note: I’m excited that Tony the following: you that if Bleddyn ever gets tired of is allowing us to publish these field the nursery business, he will make notes of his recent trip to South Tony Avent, Plant Delights Nursery/ a great race car driver. Korea. They give an excellent first- Juniper Level Botanic Garden in hand account of what it is like to be Raleigh, NC; Dan Hinkley, If you’ve ever tried to drive in Seoul, a modern day plant explorer — just Heronswood Nursery in Kingston, then you can imagine what I mean perfect for those of us who are WA; Darrell Probst, epimedium and when I say that we got really really getting our travel thrills vicariously tricyrtis breeder in Hubbardston, MA lost. In fact, we turned the four these days. Look for more install- Bleddyn Wynn-Jones, Crug Farm in hour drive to Chollipo into an ments in upcoming newsletters and Wales; Sue Wynn-Jones, Crug adventurous seven hour trek. Thank be sure to attend Tony’s FOA Farm in Wales; Song Ki-Hun, Head goodness the road signs were lecture April 16, 1998. of Plant Collections at Chollipo printed both in Korean and English. Arboretum in Chollipo, Korea. It’s too bad however that the signs Mission Statement: Our goal was didn’t always match our maps. to explore and bring back new Thursday 9-25-97 plants or plants in short supply from I departed Raleigh-Durham, early in We encountered our first and only Korea that have potential ornamen- the morning on September 25, en rain storm during our drive, which tal value in the United States, with a route to Seattle. Here, I met the would have certainly been our strong emphasis on perennials. other two Americans on our trip, choice. Without a guide to help There must be clear indication that Dan Hinkley of Heronswood Nurs- with menu selections, we stopped the plants brought into the US have ery and Darrell Probst of . for our first meal at a local restau- no inclination to become potential By 2 p.m., we were on the plane to rant and sampled Korean cuisine. invasive pests. All plant specimens Korea, via Tokyo. I’m still not sure what we ate, but I are to be clearly documented as to did recognize the rice. The one collection location, habitat, etc. via We arrived in Seoul at 10 p.m., Korean food that you quickly come the use of GPS (Global Positioning making quick forays through to recognize however is Kimchi. System). Only seed and plant customs and immigration. Our Kimchi is eaten at all three meals samples are to be taken, and in no hotel for the night was to be the by the Koreans and consists of instances will a wild population be Airport Tourist Hotel, only a short 5 cabbage and assorted seasonings decimated. It is our goal that these minute ride via shuttle from the that is stored in large ceramic jugs plants be evaluated as needed, airport. At 73,000 yuan per room on the outside roof or stoop until it then quickly as appropriate be this was to be the nicest and by far is well fermented...sort of like introduced into the US horticultural the most expensive hotel for the Korean Sauerkraut. Another sign of trade. trip. After all, they had all the things to come was no shoes in the amenities: air conditioning, shower restaurant and no chairs. I guess In 1985, Dr. JC Raulston accompa- curtains, and best of all...beds! See 1997, next page Winter 1998 Page 9 Travel News Travel News

1997, continued favorite and heretofore rare Arboretum woodlanders Syneilesis aconitifolia. Koreans all have good knees and This was also my first opportunity to limber legs, but for gangly Ameri- see the wonderful solomon’s seal, Tours cans, this was not what I’d call fun. Polygonatum involucratum with flower resembling small After lunch we were on the road handkerchiefs hanging below the again, finally arriving at our destina- arching stems. tion at 4:30 p.m. Chollipo is a JC Raulston private arboretum on the western Further down the road, we found a Arboretum Tours present coast (Yellow Sea) of Korea near forest full of one of my favorite the town of Taean. Chollipo was conifers, Juniperus rigida. It’s hard started in the 1970’s and is still run Private Gardens to find anything in the US other today by American Ferris Miller. He than the pendulous forms, and of Asheville is an investment banker by trade, these were stunningly upright, and who moved to Korea in the 1950’s fortunately loaded with seed. Here, June 6 and 7, 1998 and began buying up 160 acres of we also found a wonderful 3' tall Led by Catherine Maxwell and land on the coast near Taean. aconitum with soft yellow flowers Jonathan Nyberg, Arboretum staff Miller is now in his 70’s and recov- that excited us all, Aconitum albo- ering well after a near fatal stroke in violaceum. Saturday, June 6, 1998 1993. He is attempting to open the Depart 7:00 a.m. from the JC arboretum to the public, so that the The next thing we knew it was time Raulston Arboretum, 4301 Beryl plant collections can be enjoyed for lunch, which Ferris had pre- Rd. Raleigh, NC. We will drive after his death. pared for us back at the Magnolia directly to eat lunch at the home of House. Again, a magnificent Peter and Jasmine Gentling, We were allowed to stay in one of spread and more food that we (formerly the summer house of Miller’s guest houses, the Magnolia could possibly eat. After lunch, we Herbert Hoover), who have a House. It was absolutely stunning, were given a quick tour of part of magnificent garden of textural constructed in the authentic Korean the Chollipo Gardens by the Head plants with a Japanese influence. style with the common sunken roof of Plant Collections, Song Ki-Hun. Their garden was recently featured line. After a short rest, we joined Ki-Hun has worked at Chollipo for in Fine Gardening magazine. Mid- Ferris for dinner at a local restau- nearly 20 years, and had spent time afternoon we visit Peter and Kathy rant back in Taean (nearly 30 at the Longwood Gardens program Wallenborn’s garden, a controlled minutes away). Again, a wonderful here in the US. His English was patchwork of perennials, annuals, meal with meat on the grill, all kinds fabulous, as was his plant knowl- shrubs and conifers. We’ll stay in of sauces, but alas...sitting on the edge, and we werequite excited to downtown Asheville at the Interstate floor. Also, forget finding a no find that he would be our guide Motel. Those of you who have smoking section. through most of our trip. been on trips with JC will remember this as his favorite budget motel Saturday 9-27-97 The gardens, which specialize in within walking distance of down- We got up early in order to share two of Ferris’s favorites, hollies and town. This tour is priced with and the one bathroom in the Magnolia magnolias, are a plantsman’s without motel accommodations house. We then opted to get our dream. If I had to pick one favorite because we know people may have bearings in the wild quickly, so off to (as the magnolias were not in friends they wish to stay with in the woods we went. Driving up the bloom), it would have to be a Asheville. Dinner and the evening road from Chollipo, we found spectacular maple, Acer insularis. are on your own. If you don’t wonderful coastal pine forests. This 25' specimen of a little known already know about all the wonder- Within just a few minutes, we were maple (aka: Acer morifolium) has ful restaurants, coffeehouses and finding such treasures as Disporum lovely foliage resembling a shops in downtown Asheville, smilacina, Disporum flavens, carpinus, and a beautiful shape. I you’re in for a real treat! Convallaria keiski, and a number of only wish we had more time, as at terrestrial orchids. The forest floor Sunday, June 7, 1998 was a virtual carpet of the wonderful See Expedition, page 18 Hepatica asiatica, and one of my See Tour, next page Page 10 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter Arboretum Tours Arboretum Tours Arboretum Tours

Tour, continued JC Raulston Day 7: July 29, 1998 Italian lake area, Villa Taranto At 8:45 a.m. we will leave for two Arboretum Tours present Garden, Brissago Island Gardens, private gardens. Our host will be Isola Bella Gardens; night in garden writer Peter Loewer. He will Landscape Verona, Italy. first show us his garden, which is an eclectic blend of many plants Horticulture Day 8: July 30, 1998 and includes a marvelous view of Diversity in Lower Leisure day in Verona, Italy, many Lake Kennilworth. Then we move garden possibilities; night in next door to the magnificent garden Central Europe Verona. created over a 40 year period by Doan Ogden. It has continued to July 23, 1998 — August 3, 1998 Day 9: July 31, 1998 flourish under the able stewardship Led by Bryce Lane, Director. Padua Botanic Garden; night in of John Cram. After lunch down- Salzburg, Austria. town, you may wish to stay in town This tour was designed by JC. The to browse the great antique stores, only change we made was adding a Day 10: August 1, 1998 relax at a cafe, visit friends, or day of leisure in Italy (please forgive Leisure time in Vienna, Austria, anything else you might fancy. The us JC). You should expect the Schonbrunn Palace; night in bus will leave for a trip to Craggy same frenetic plant-crazed pace of Vienna. Gardens on the Blue Ridge Park- previous Arboretum tours. Here is way. Though not a private garden, a brief itinerary. Phone the Arbore- Day 11: August 2, 1998 there are many private spots one tum office, 919-515-3132, to obtain Linz Botanic Garden, Munich could hike to. Of course, the the complete itinerary. Botanic Garden; night in Munich. weather will be sparkling so the views form the parkway will be Day 1: July 23, 1998 Day 12: August 3, 1998 breathtaking. We also hope to Arrive in Munich, Germany. Depart from Munich. catch the Catawba rhododendrons in full-bloom. We leave Asheville at Day 2: July 24, 1998 Price: $2,925, includes airfare 5:00 p.m., arriving at the JC Munich, Schlosspark from Charlotte, Atlanta or New York, Raulston Arboretum around 10:00 Nymphenburg, afternoon free to Dbl occupancy rooms, 10 nights p.m.; tired, but quite satisfied by the explore city or visit the largest accommodations with private companionship of the weekend and “English Park” in Europe; night in facilities in superior tourist class the glorious sights from the private Munich. hotels with continental breakfast , gardens of Asheville. ground transportation, $200 dona- •Price: $145.00, includes: bus Day 3: July 25, 1998 tion to Arboretum in lieu of tips for transportation as outlined above, Salzburg, Austria, Schloss Arboretum staff (one other Arbore- lunch on Saturday, all garden Hellbrunn Gardens and Water- tum staff member will accompany entrance fees, double accommoda- works. Back to Germany for tour), all tips except bus driver, 25 tion Saturday night. Linderhof; night in Munich. participant minimum. Single supple- •Without accommodations: ment is $350. To register contact: $115.00. Single accommodations: Day 4: July 26, 1998 Marti Ehrlich, Ronningen Travel $175.00. Tubingen Botanic Garden, Mainau Center, 226 East Sixth Avenue, •Minimum 25 participants, maxi- Island Gardens; night in Zurich, Hendersonville, NC 28792. phone: mum 45 participants. Switzerland. 704-693-1922. fax: 704-693-1967. •To register, send your name, ■ address, phone number (day and Day 5: July 27, 1998 evening) and payment (made out Zurich Botanic Gardens, Schynige Napoleon to Josephine, to: NC Agricultural Foundation) to: Platte Alphine Botanic Garden; JC Raulston Arboretum, Asheville night in Geneva, Switzerland. Tour, Dept. of Horticultural Science, “Home in three days, Box 7609, NCSU, Raleigh, NC Day 6: July 28, 1998 don’t bathe.” 27695. Phone: 919-515-3132 for Geneva Botanic Garden; night in further information. Thank you. ■ Lugano, Italy.

Winter 1998 Page 11 Volunteer able to fill her muddy shoes? Who lumber and labor to take off and would know enough and be de- replace the old boards. We’re voted enough to take up where looking for a carpenter to head up a News Rosemary left off? Rosanna small team of folks. The work Adams and Tena Oberle urged the shouldn’t take more than a day or third member of the Lath House two. As well, if there is anyone out Notes from Harriet team to take the lead. So Charlotte there who is skilled in the art of fine Presley is now moving forward with pruning we would sure love to have by Harriet Bellerjeau new richness and dedication. She you donate some hours. Please and the team have just finished arrange your interest with Dan Remembering Rosemary laying stone and artistically arrang- directly at 848-5462. ■ Last October, Rosemary Kautzky ing large rocks along the front of moved to Des Moines, Iowa. In the the lath house. Many new acquisi- Help wanted! year before leaving, she contributed tions are needed to continue the Volunteers are currently needed in over 300 hours gardening at the work. Just for starters a list of the following non-gardening areas: Arboretum. We remember her about 25 woody plants have been mailings, Gala in the Garden, the energy, enthusiasm, hard work and envisioned, and this does not Raleigh Home and Garden Show, easy smiles. Early in the spring of include the shade loving perennials telephone tree, drawing plants on 1997, before taking on full responsi- and moisture loving cultivars. the computer map, volunteer bility for heading up a team of activities, children’s materials for the gardeners in the Lath House, she There’s every indication that at this web-site, photographers, graphic worked in the Mixed Border. But it point funds are needed for the artists, carpenter, grant writers and is her effort with the Lath House purchase of these additional plants Volunteer Office (Looking for that we remember so often. It and to replace those which have Saturday all day and Sunday underwent major renovation when died. Should you wish to help, afternoons). Please call Harriet at Rosemary took it on. Mulching, please contact the Arboretum the Arboretum office, 515-3132. For removing, identifying and labeling Office 515-3132 and earmark your gardening opportunities, see the all of the plants, Rosemary and her contribution for the Lath House or boxed list of curators on page 13.■ crew made this area into one of the contact Charlotte directly at 851- Arboretum’s most precious gems. 0555. Holiday cheer Many thanks to all who shared their In response to an ever growing We’ve heard that the early snows in cookies, recipes and ornaments for need (no pun intended), several the mid-west have made for difficult the JC Raulston tree during the interest areas at the Arboretum gardening. She’s already gotten Christmas holidays, December 11th. were identified in the last newslet- a head start this fall designing her It was a wonderful and beautifully ter in hopes that a curator would new garden, and most of the plants sunny event. We hope to have come forward. Guy Meillieur has she carried to Iowa from her own more of these get togethers in 1998 done just, accepting responsibility garden here in Raleigh have been — look for the postcards! ■ transplanted. A number of these for the conifer collection. He will were arboretum trials being given begin working in the Conifer yet another opportunity for us to Garden on Wednesday mornings Labyrinth “wait and see” how they adapt. from 9 a.m. till noon. Guy will need A group has formed to maintain and assistance for mulching, aerating enhance the sacred space and Our heartfelt thanks to Rosemary and extension of a footpath. energy of the labyrinth. They are for her special devotion to carrying Please see feel free to contact him using planning and planting prin- on the tradition and legacy of JC directly at 387-7045. ciples and techniques developed at Raulston in planning and planting Perelandra. They welcome all who for a better world. ■ December brought some wonder- feel a calling to join. For more fully mild weather and also brought informtaion call Larry Henson at New curators several volunteers together in the 661-8371 or Natalie Sadler at 968- ■ When Rosemary Kautzky moved Japanese Garden. Dan Howe, the 6921. away there was an uncomfortable new curator, is anxious to bring tug at our sleeves. Who would be this area some attention. The greatest needs will be for the Page 12 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter Volunteer News Volunteer News Volunteer News by February so we can get a Then, the first two Sunday public Calling for Tour manual and keys to you before the tours will be given by experienced training begins. Current or former guides, so new guides who want Guides guides can attend one or more more examples can tag along. by Vivian Finkelstein sessions to refreshthemselves, sign-up on the tour calendar, and • Sunday April 5 2:00 The Arboretum could use a few catch up on new events, Carolyn Weathers more tour guides for 1998, plants, people, and policies. • Sunday April 12 2:00 especially folks who are available Janice Dunham on weekdays during the day, when Training sessions for 1998 will be the majority of guided tours are held in March, as follows. Please call Fran, Viv, or the Arbore- scheduled. Consider training to • Sunday March 8 2:00-4:00 tum Office at 515- 3132 to become a guide. It’s probably the Viv Finkelstein (emphasis on express your interest well in ad- best way to learn and keep up with adults) vance of the training sessions. And the plants and happenings at the • Sunday March 22 2:00-4:00 do consider joining in the fun of JC Raulston Arboretum. Bryce Lane (Director’s tour) sharing our great treasure with the • Sunday March 29 2:00-4:00 Beth public. ■ You think you don’t know enough to Lane (emphasis on children) give tours? Think again. If you love the Arboretum, can learn a little about its history and major Curators Corner collections by attending the training sessions and reading the training The following is a list of all current curators and the areas in which manual, and can remember a they serve. Those with an asterisk * are in need of your assistance. couple of dozen plants, you will be Volunteering is a great way to learn more about gardening and to able to give a good informative tour. work with others to share the treasure and tradition of the Arboretum. Be a host, teacher, welcomer, and Our apologies to Doug Ruhren, whose phone number was incorrectly ambassador for JC’s garden by printed in the last newsletter. joining the volunteer tour guides in their work. You can spend as little Butterfly Garden Patricia Highland 217-1252 as 10 hours a year or 20 hours a (formerly the Almanac Garden) month, as your own schedule Blue Biird Houses Lynn Hoyt 362-1301 permits, and the times are very Iris Curator Catherine Gaertner 380-5172 flexible. Japanese Garden* Dan Howe 848-5462 JC Archives Mary and Claude Caldwell All kinds of groups schedule private Labeling* Tom Bumgarner 231-7450 tours for their members —garden Lath House Charlotte Presley 851-0555 clubs, school groups, senior citizen Magnolia Curator Pat McCracken 365-7878 clubs, plant societies, Master Mixed Shrub Border* Amelia Lane 787-6228 Gardener trainees in all the NC Perennial Borders* Edith Eddleman 286-7691 counties, book clubs, church Doug Ruhen 688-0240 groups, you-name-it. In addition to Rose Garden Harvey Bumgardener 832-5426 over 100 privately scheduled tours Anne Clapp 876-3434 given each year, we conduct public Tour Guides* Fran Johnson 847-5274 tours every Sunday afternoon at Visitor Center* Bee Weddington 782-7787 2:00 in April through October. Water Garden Alicia Berry 829-2524 White Garden* Karen Jones 834-6351 Call Fran Johnson at 847-5274 or Ann Owens and Jeff Briggs Viv Finkelstein at 847-3658 if Garden of Winter Delights* Jonathan Nyberg 544-7843 you can volunteer as a guide, or Frank Simpson 682-5754 want to learn more about it. New Wisteria Garden Larry Garvel and Linda Jones guides should attend all three Volunteer Representative Ann Clapp 876-3434 training sessions in March. Call us to the Arboretum Board

Winter 1998 Page 13 Publication reader. In fact, this is just an manner of some kind. So, the outstanding publication. You’ll be author said, human culture went News surprised how many interesting from being entirely hunter-gatherer, articles you’ll find. The recent and not alienated from the land or issue, #40, has a thorough mono- themselves, to being mostly agricul- There is nothing more humbling graph on Hypericum perforatum, St. tural, and alienated from the land for a newsletter editor than getting John’s Wort, which is becoming and themselves. the latest copy of Allen Lacy’s very popular for the treatment of Homeground (PO Box 271, mild depression. I would highly This was very interesting to me and Linwood, NJ 08221. Quarterly, recommend anyone taking St. I decided to research the beginnings $38/year). It is top-quality in every John’s Wort, or thinking about it to of agriculture for myself. For way one can measure a gardening read this article. Also in the same several years I went to libraries and newsletter, the most important issue is, Phytomedicines Outper- bookstores, hoping to find that one being quality articles about plants. form Synthetics In Treating En- elusive book that would tie every- The fall ‘97 issue has an article by larged Prostate, which informs us of thing together. There’s little doubt Nancy Goodwin of Montrose about scientific studies from Europe that agriculture is more work. Why did Cyclamen that includes step-by-step show Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens) people switch from hunting- seed germination. I’d recommend extract works very well to shrink gathering to agriculture? Was it trying out Homeground if you’re enlarged prostrate. In the Triangle climate change? Or population interested in reading about plants area, this magazine is available at pressure? Yet, most people seemed and the horticultural world (which Barnes and Noble and Wellspring to think that it was agriculture that I’m sure includes everyone who is Grocery. ■ increased the population, not the reading this!) ■ other way around. Well, I read Many years ago I lived in a self- enough to satisfy my curiosity Garden Therapy, One to Grow On, proclaimed anarchist collective — about the beginnings of agriculture, Inc., PO Box 5372 Virginia Beach, not for any ideological reasons, but and throughout the years I contin- VA 23471. Phone: 888-383-2240. the only person I knew in town ued to scan books to see if I could This is a newsletter whose motto is lived there and rent was cheap. find any new information. “We believe gardening should be The anarchists were big into good for the soul and not hurt the alienation, and a member gave me Last month at the Regulator book- body”. It has various tools that an article entitled, “Agriculture: store in Durham, I saw a book titled make gardening less stressful for The Roots of Alienation.” Since I Guns, Germs and Steel /The Fates of the body. ■ was studying horticulture at the Human Societies, by Jared Diamond. local university, he felt it only right It had a painting on the cover of HortIdeas, by Greg and Pat Will- that I realize what evil I was what looked to be a Spanish soldier iams, 750 Black Lick Rd., Gravel involved in. The article introduced with his sword raised against an Switch, KY 40328, continues to be a me to the idea that the hunter- Aztec or Incan chief. Well, I great clearinghouse for horticul- gatherer lifestyle, usually character- thought, maybe it has something tural information. I can’t imagine ized as being “brutish and nasty”, about agriculture. I turned to the the publications they must look was actually much better than the table of contents and was amazed to through. It is now available online, one we have today. According to see seven chapters under the e-mail: [email protected]. ■ the article, hunter-gatherers spent heading, “The Rise and Spread of less of their time getting food and Food Production.” My heart was HerbalGram: the Journal of the other necessities, and therefore had beating a little faster as I turned to a American Botanical Council and the more leisure time. Also, since they chapter, “To Farm or Not to Farm.” Herb Research Foundation. PO Box had little surplus food, everyone Several pages later, I closed the 201660, Austin, TX 78720. Quar- had to contribute to the hunting book, walked to the checkout terly, $25/year. Phone: 512-331- and gathering, making society quite counter and bought it. 8868. Probably the best collection egalitarian. But with agriculture of books for sale on medicinal came food surpluses which could I really don’t know what to say plants, herbals, ethnobotany, support an upper class, providing about the book after one reading — essential oils, and general botany they could get enough food from except read it. If you have any for both the lay and scientific the farmers, usually in a coercive interest whatsoever in why societies

Page 14 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter Publication News Publication News developed the way they did; why line.” Europeans conquered native people around the world and not the other Their final garden plan includes: way around; the beginnings of The Sacred, or ‘Blasphemous’, agriculture, technology, writing and Garden; The Garden of Venus; The government; why Europeans had Cruel Garden; The Garden of better germs than other people; Oblivion; The ‘Paradis Artificiel’; why racist theories of cultural The Fatal Garden and Gardens of dominance are incorrect; in short, if the Mind. you have any interest in anything that has happened in the past From the back cover: 13,000 years, then you need to read this book. I guarantee you won’t “They reveal the darkside of look at history the same ever again. another suburban activity which is And, it might even change the way still widely thought to be the you look at the people down the preserve of old ladies in sensible street. I’ve already sent a copy to shoes. The aim of Lucan and Gray my anarchist buddies. ■ is to return gardening to its Priapic roots, to reveal a world which is Another book I picked up that same founded on sex and death, decay productive day at the Regulator is and sensuality, where the stench of The Decadent Gardener, (Dedalus corruption mingles with the cloying Ltd., Distributed in the US by scent of fecundity, where acts of Subterranean, PO Box 160, 265 S. cruelty and violence are everyday Fifth St., Monroe, Oregon 97456). occurrences. It is destined to The authors are listed as Medlar become an indispensable manual Lucan and Durian Gray. This is for the thinking gardener.” only the first deception of a bril- liant, clever book—probably It might go very well with your written by editors Alex Martin and Martha Stewart collection. I do feel Jerome Fletcher. I say probably a need to point out that this is not a because I truly don’t know exactly book which would receive funding what is fact and what is fiction in from the National Endowment for this book. I take it all as fiction the Arts without protests from until proven otherwise. But it really certain politicians and civic doesn’t matter. This book makes groups—especially the chapter me laugh. describing the Garden of Venus. But for others, it is as one reviewer It is the story of garden designers wrote, “A scholarly work, cleverly Lucan and Gray as they work for disguised as a very amusing read.” the wealthy Mrs. Gordon of ■ Montcullen. After meticulous research, they find themselves inspired by people like Humphrey Repton, of which Mr. Gray wrote:

“His greatness lay not in his ability to create acres of tedious English parkland, but in his ruthlessness. As a gardener he was without mercy. He was quite prepared to flatten an entire mining village because it spoilt a particular sight

Winter 1998 Page 15 laying down seeds like grains of be dispersed in water. In their red sand, repeating the same tasks and gold robes and incongruous again and again. The monks shoes, the monks walked together attended to their work the way that I in the sunshine to the meadow would like to garden; their attention outside the museum. There they never wavered. When such con- scattered the sand in a pond, JC centration comes over me in the dissolving all their labors. garden, all of the distractions and concerns that make up living in a This happened at the North Caro- city fade. For a few moments, only lina Museum of Art last October, In Retrospect: soil and air occupy me. just a month after a hurricane wiped away trees at random, A Garden The monks seemed to live com- leaving one street untouched, Destroyed pletely in their task. In spite of that, another fragmented. At the end of to represent their lack of attach- the year, an accident at Christmas ment and to fulfill the mandala’s would claim J.C. Raulston without By Barbara Scott meaning, they would destroy it the warning. The focus that marked his reprinted from the Trillium day after its completion. When that work at the Arboretum in Raleigh day came, the museum filled with takes on new meaning when one What I noticed first about the all the people who had watched the looks at pictures taken of him monks was their concentration; mandala being created during the during the last months of his life. they seemed oblivious to the flow preceding week. He had taken to shaving his head, of spectators around them. What I monk-like, calling to mind a broth- noticed next was their shoes, which Despite all the clamor of people erhood of the spade. That brother- were obviously donated. Brown and cameras, the monks’ de- hood seems to exist as his col- leather oxfords and topsiders from meanor did not change as they leagues and all the gardeners who the West looked out of place with prayed and chanted, sometimes in support the Arboretum continue the traditional robes the monks unison, sometimes separately, to their work. wore draped around their shoul- sanctify the mandala’s destruction. ders. I could imagine someone The final moments came quickly. Perhaps the monks can be dispas- gardening in those shoes. One lama pinched sand from the sionate about destroying their painting between his fingers to gardens of sand because they The lamas fromTibet’s’s Sera Je destroy creatures on the mandala know other mandalas will be made, Buddhist monastery worked around and release the spirits living in that life lies in the act of making a small table in pairs, taking turns them. Then he divided the mandala rather than in individuals or in tapping brass funnels filled with into sections with a pointed brass creations. Perhaps this is what colored sand. Grain by grain, they tool. Taking a piece of cardboard in makes me garden, despite knowing were creating a picture composed hand, he swirled the cut design into that some plants will succumb of patterns and squares, animals circles and swept the sand into a every year to my inattention or and plants. A video in the museum glass vase. ignorance. And despite knowing where they worked showed their that every garden I make will sand painting, a mandala, being Watching the destruction from change in unforeseen ways and built in three dimensions. Making it behind the ropes that separated me someday disappear. ■ involves a ritual that represents all from them, I wondered at the creation, both human and divine. monks’ composure. I struggled to While the mandala exists, the maintain mine. Their act evoked JC Interview creatures depicted in it are homes such sadness in me—images of to the spirits and gods they repre- gardens built and left behind and For a copy of Jim Wilson’s 1996 sent. memories of friends found only to hour-long interview with JC, filmed be lost. at the Arboretum, contact: Great As I watched the lamas lay sand Gardens, Episode 102, HGTV, PO upon the table where they had A final step remained. The Box 50970, Knoxville, TN 37950 ■ chalked a design, I thought of mandala, now a vase of sand with making a garden: defining a space, no distinct colors remaining, would Page 16 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter Reviews A few recent Arboretum events and Previews

Hey, the Arboretum staff together in one place. Now there’s an event! From left to right; kneeling: Jonathan Nyberg, Val Tyson; standing: Catherine Maxwell, Bryce Lane, Mitzi Hole, Karen Jones, Catherine Gaertner, Pamela Christie

Edith Eddleman in the summer border

Tina Belmaggio shows off her wreath and table centerpiece made during the holiday decorations workshop. Larry Mellichamp (left) and Peter Loewer visit the Agave in the Garden of Winter Delights at the Arboretum. Winter 1998 Page 17 greenhouses in small country of though I had to recall my tree climbing Travel Korea than there are in the entire US. skills of youth to reach a rare cigar Virtually all of the greenhouses, like fruit). I found my first large however are used for vegetable crop populations of Arisaema peninsulae, production, and of course, one of their acres of Clematis heracleifolia, and News major imports, ginseng. the most spectacular of the cimicifugas, C. dahurica. Seeing this The one thing that we quickly noticed 7' tall gem in person was indeed a about Korea is the cleanliness of the special moment. Also, growing along , cont. from p. 11 country. It was virtually impossible to side the road was Astilbe koreana, an Expedition find any trash on the ground that was astilbe that preferred dry sunny road least 3 days is require to completely not being picked up as soon as it hit cuts to the moist lowland of typical view the entire garden. the ground. Along every street, astilbes. workers reminiscent of those at Sunday 9-28-97 Disney World would stand poised to As we journeyed further from the At 9 a.m., we departed to our first dart out in traffic, with broom in dust road, we found such treasures as destination of Mt. Sorak, a mountain pan in hand if any remnant of trash Asarum sieboldii (deciduous), Paris range near the east coast, bordering should come their way. verticillata, and a stunning array of the DMZ to the north. The drive ferns. The ground was again car- actually went faster than expected, as We arrived in the town of Sokcho at 5 peted with Hepatica asiatica and the we were able to travel on interstate p.m. after a hard day on the road, we commonly found Carex siderosticha. toll roads most of the way. The road had no trouble finding a cheap It was time now for our daily lunch system in Korea rivals anything we hotel....actually it was the same one stop...Spam or Tuna sandwiches, have in the US, including “service that Bleddyn and Sue had used on an Vienna sausages, and the choice of area” where fast food was plentiful. earlier trip. The only thing horticul- Korean’s everywhere...Pringle’s New and expanded interstate highway tural here was a struggling jujube potato chips. construction is a sight that we literally (Zizyphus jujube) in full fruit growing saw along our entire route. out of a crack in the asphalt. I would Further down the road at a similar quickly learn that some members of stop, we had to traverse two rivers Along the route, most of the flat land our group were...shall we say, overly that were not equipped with the usual was used for agriculture, primarily cost conscious, and would gladly stepping stones. Removing shoes, food crops. The production of rice sacrifice comfort for price. We did socks, and in some cases pants, we rivaled China, but the harvesting was beg for a restaurant with chairs, and each made our way across two all mechanized, as we watched were fortunate to find a nice Chinese streams to the treasures that we miniature combines make their way establishment near the hotel. hoped awaited on the other side. If through the rice paddies as harvesting nothing else, this stop provided some was in full swing. Also fruit production We also noticed that there are very great Kodak moments in river cross- and quality was staggering. Through- few private phones in Korea...not in ing. out the rest of the trip, we enjoyed hotels, and not in businesses. Korea, some of the finest fruit that we have it’s people and it’s businesses operate The dominant tree in this entire ever eaten including Fuji apples, giant on cellular phones. The best we stretch was none other than Magnolia Asian pears, and fabulous seedless could manage in our rooms was a sieboldii. These stunning specimens tangerines. Highway beautification room-to-room connection. For calls were each loaded with pods of bright was not foreign to Korea, although the back home, we would have to venture orange colored fruit. Other trees in miles of hybrid coreopsis seemed a out to try and find a nearby pay the area in great abundance were bit of a strange choice. phone. Styrax japonicus, Styrax obassia, Lindera obtusiloba, Betula dahurica In addition, I don’t think we traveled Monday 9-29-97 (identical to our native B. nigra) and a one mile on flat ground that we didn’t At 9 a.m., we departed Sokcho to Mt. variety of maples, especially the see hundreds and thousands of Sorak. We made several stops along lovely Acer pseudosieboldianum. ■ greenhouses. I would venture a the road, where we found such gems guess that there are easily more as the hardy dutchman’s pipe, To be continued in the next issue Aristolochia mandschuriensis (al- of the Arboretum Newsletter Page 18 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter New membership benefits private tour of the Arboretum with the Membership Director and a free subscription to the Student $10 Carolina Gardener. News Quarterly Arboretum Newsletter, free Bronze Leaf $1,000 members lectures, annual members Benefits listed above plus ten picnic and admission to annual Contributor’s Connoisseur Plants, Friends of the Arboretum rare plant invitations to receptions for visiting give-away. lectures, a special Director’s seminar New Benefits for Individual $30 and two complimentary memberships. Benefits listed above. Silver Leaf $2,000 Friends Old and New Family $40 Benefits listed above plus twenty Benefits listed above plus two mem- Contributor’s Connoisseur Plants, You are probably aware that much of bership cards, admitting two to the recognition in the ledger of Arboretum the Arboretum’s support comes from Friends of the Arboretum rare plant benefactors and the privilege to host your membership contributions. We give-away. an event at the Arboretum for the thank you for being a part of the Organization $50 group of your choice. Arboretum and making its work Benefits listed above plus a free Gold Leaf $5,000 possible. group tour. Benefits listed above plus a special Sponsor $100 educational program at the site of you Over the past year, we asked mem- Benefits listed above plus choice of a choice and the plant of your choice bers what they wanted in return. The Contributor’s Connoisseur Plant. propagated for you. answers came down to two things: Donor $250 Special Green Industry Benefits more educational opportunities and Benefits listed above plus two Green Industry members at the more plants! The new benefits listed Contributor’s Connoisseur Plants and $1,000 level and above receive a below were developed in response to an invitation to the annual Director’s special industry gift pack. Members those requests. Dinner. at the $5,000 level receive an invita- Patronnow $500os thje timdkfl;k tion to sit on the Plant Advisory Board. We hope you’ll consider sharing Benefits listed above plus five ■ membership with a friend. If each Contributor’s Connoisseur Plants, a member could get one person to join we could double our membership! Ask one of your gardening friends if Membership Application they would like to help support the Arboretum and its continuing mission ❏ Student $10 ❏ Donor $250 of enriching and expanding urban and ❏ Individual $30 ❏ Patron $500 residential landscapes by promoting a ❏ Family $40 ❏ Bronze Leaf $1,000 ❏ ❏ greater diversity of superior and better Organization $50 Silver Leaf $2,000 ❏ Sponsor $100 ❏ Gold Leaf $5,000 adapted landscape plants. ❏ My company matches gifts. I have enclosed a matching gift form. The purpose of the Friends of The JC Raulston Arboretum is to encourage and support NCSU in establishing a name nnkjvfijjfdfldffldk significant arboretum of high quality at the University to enhance teaching address and research programs in Horticul- tural Science, and to serve the public, city/state/zip nursery and landscape industries as a place of continuous learning and telephone/fax/e-mail inspiration. Membership fees and donations are used for construction of Make checks payable to new facilities, purchase of plant The North Carolina Agricultural Foundation materials, and for maintenance. All with Friends of The JC Raulston Arboretum on the memo line. Mail to The JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University contributions are tax-deductable. Department of Horticultural Science,Box 7609, Raleigh, NC 27695-7609 Winter 1998 Page 19 Director’s Letter, cont. p. 1 like to mention a couple of plants that fall color this year was an iridescent we are planning on propagating and yellow/orange/rose and stopped me volunteer; oh yes, he is also a faculty growing. First, I am planning to visit and two visitors in our tracks when we member at NC State in Electrical Maymont Park in Richmond, Virginia saw it. So we will see how it propa- Engineering. Art has worked diligently again this spring to take cuttings from gates and grows in some different to create one of the best web pages I an incredible specimen of Enkianthus spots. Watch for next year’s fall color. have seen for a botanical garden or perulatus. White enkianthus is a Lots of other things in the works; we arboretum. Thanks Art, for your deciduous shrub that grows about will keep you posted. dedicated service to the arboretum. 6’x9’. It is more spreading than The web page address is: http:// Enkianthus campanulatus and has I want to thank all of you for your arb.ncsu.edu phenomenal red/burgundy fall color. continued and faithful support. I Flowers are white and urn shaped, especially appreciate the calls and Special thanks and appreciation also but what is so striking is the incredible correspondence you have directed go to Mitzi Hole, the arboretum deep rich fall color. We will see how it my way offering words of support and technician, who has spent the past performs at the arboretum; the one encouragement. I hope to meet many year working tirelessly to keep the plant we currently have is a scrawny of you in the coming year and look garden in fantastic shape. She has thing that has been in shade most of forward to the wonderful plants, coordinated many new garden its life. people, and programs that the JC changes that you will want to read Raulston Arboretum will bring to- about in her article in this newsletter. The other plant sits in the west gether! ■ Mitzi is very dedicated to the arbore- arboretum and it blew me away on a tum and will do whatever it takes to cool late November day. Lindera getnow the jobios done. the Thanks kjfkldj Mitzi for f all umbellata is a multistemmed, medium you do! sized deciduous shrub that originated in and central China. A bit To conclude my comments, I would straggly as an established plant, the

The JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University Classified Advertising Department of Horticultural Science Box 7609 As a benefit of membership, the newsletter is accepting Raleigh, NC 27695-7609 classified ads under the following heading. There is no Arboretum office: 919-515-3132 charge for this service. We reserve the right to edit. Send Development office: 919-515-2000 your brief ad to: Classified Ads, JC Raulston Arboretum, World Wide Web Address: Box 7609, Raleigh, NC 27695-7609. http://arb.ncsu.edu

Bryce Lane, Director Catherine Maxwell, Director of Development Mitzi Hole, Arboretum Technician Plants or Seed for Sale/Swap Pamela Christie, Secretary (Non-Commercial Only) Valerie Tyson, Plant Recorder Karen Jones, Gardener Waiting for your ad Doug Ruhren, Horticultural Advisor Jonathan Nyberg, Program Coordinator Harriet Bellerjeau, Volunteer Coordinator

Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter is published four times a year.

Jonathan Nyberg, Editor

Page 20 Friends of the JC Raulston Arboretum Newsletter