Border Patrol June 26 2009
Of The Seasonal Walk Saga
By Tovah Martin
Reign of Brilliance

Now is when the perennials begin their reign of brilliance. At previous intervals in the Seasonal Walk’s progression, the combinations hinted at the ingenuity of Piet Oudolf’s plan. But now, the creativity, savvy, sophistication, and depth of Oudolf’s knowledge of perennials is blazingly apparent.
If you thought you knew echinacea, for example, you’re in for an eye opener. Oudolf’s introductions – ‘Fatal Attraction’, ‘Green Jewel’, ‘Vintage Wine’, and ‘Virgin’ are going to cause a double take. Their electric colors will send you rushing off to find sources of these newbies. Ditto for all the other perennials as you walk down the aisle. I envision a whole lot of bridesmaids dropping their nosegays to pull out writing pads and take notes.