More and more gardeners are becoming familiar with native Carolina pink, thanks to its uncanny ability to attract hummingbirds from far and wide. The straight species (and subsequent cultivars released in the past few years) get quite large, topping out at 2 to 3 feet tall. The straight species is also known to flop when weighed down with those red, late-spring flowers. Enter ‘Apple Slices’—the shortest, most compact version of Carolina pink out there. This new cultivar also sports darker, almost garnet-colored blooms, which are an eye-catching delight.

‘Apple Slices’ Carolina pink

Spigelia marilandica ‘Apple Slices’

Zones: 5–9

Size: 18 inches tall and wide

Conditions: Partial shade; moist, well-drained soil

Native range: Southeastern United States

Source

• Garden Crossings, Zeeland, MI; 616-875-6355; gardencrossings.com