PAUL LEE CANNON

OH, THE SMELL OF IT! On this cool, autumn morning I discovered that my scented selection of plants is thriving. My nose told me so. So, seized by spontaneity, I turned them into a wonderfully fragrant bouquet to enjoy indoors. What’s in it? Magic Mountain basil, ‘Jessica’ blushing pink rose, Osmanthus fragrans (Sweet Olive), Pelargonium crispum ‘Variegatum’ (variegated lemon geranium), Calamintha nepeta (calamint), and Prostanthera ovalifolia ‘Variegata’ (variegated mint bush). Ahhh …

(Photo by Paul Lee Cannon)

FABULOUS FOLIAGE & FRAGRANCE FOR FALL: I’ve been contemplating what to plant in front of this Punica granatum ‘Nana’ (dwarf pomegranate). The space has poor soil and gets a lot of sun. I’m gonna try ‘Meerlo’ lavender, which I’m super excited about because of the bright, beautiful variegated foliage and wonderful fragrance. Plus I love the contrast it provides. Plus, plus, I think it’s great to combine edible ornamentals. I’m hoping the lavender will stay lovely through the colder months when the pomegranate sheds its leaves. Stay tuned.

(Photo by Paul Lee Cannon)