Leafy meadow phlox is imperiled in the state of Missouri, as Missouri serves as the eastern-most range for this subspecies. This subspecies exhibits pyramidal-shaped, pinkish-purple flower panicles and blooms from August to October. In the wild, it typically grows in moist meadows, low woods and riverbanks.

a.k.a. Davidia involucrata

Bloom time: Spring

Where to find it: Chinese Garden and the English Woodland Garden at the Missouri Botanical Garden

Persian ironwood is a small-to-medium sized deciduous tree native to the biologically rich Hyrcanian forests of northern Iran. It is considered to be a tertiary relict species that are survivors of a population that was once more widely distributed in the Northern Hemisphere during the Tertiary period (65-15 million years ago). The species is considered to be "near threatened" in its native range due to its limited distribution.

June 1 – 7
Deadhead bulbs and spring flowering perennials as blossoms fade.
Thinning overloaded fruit trees will result in larger and healthier fruits at harvest time. Thinned fruits should be a hands-width apart.

June 7– 13
As soon as cucumber and squash vines start to 'run,' begin spray treatments to control cucumber beetles and squash vine borers.
Plant pumpkins now to have Jack-o-lanterns for Halloween.

April 1-7
Shrubs and trees best planted or transplanted in spring, rather than fall, include butterfly bush, dogwood, rose of Sharon, black gum (Nyssa), vitex, red bud, magnolia, tulip poplar, birch, ginkgo, hawthorn and most oaks.

April 1-14
Start cucumber, cantaloupe, summer squash and watermelon seeds indoors in peat pots.

April 1-14
Prune peaches and nectarines now.

April 1-14
Asparagus and rhubarb harvests begin.

April 15-23
When crabapples are in bloom, hardy annuals may be transplanted outdoors.

Early January: Check stored summer bulbs such as dahlias, cannas and gladioli to be sure they are not rotting or drying out.

Early January: Old Christmas trees can be recycled outdoors as a feeding station for birds. String garlands of peanuts, popcorn, cranberries, fruits and suet through their boughs.

Early January: Allow tap water to warm to room temperature before using on  houseplants.