SUMMER FINALLY ARRIVES IN THE GARDEN

For early color we rely on perennials. They fill an important role in June until our annuals and summer bulbs can get established.

Among the June-flowering perennials are a number of fine herbs. These are wonderful for interplanting with spring-flowering bulbs. They'll help to hide the yellowing bulb foliage.

Rising to majestic heights, angelica brings sweetly scented June blossoms. The huge globe-shaped clusters of whitish-green blooms are two to six inches across.

Roman chamomile blooms resemble those of daisies. They have deep yellow centers, and cream or whitish rays. They have a distinctive fragrance, reminiscent of apples. This perennial is only about nine inches tall. The foliage has a feathery appearance.

If I could only have one June-flowering herb, that would be chives. The small, light purple blooms occur as rounded heads on the ends of tall stems. They're very long-lasting. In some instances the plant may rebloom in the fall months.

Clary sage is truly a biennial. It blooms in June and July of the second year. The flowers resemble those of the ordinary sage. They may be white, lilac, or pale blue. The blooms appear in whorls from long terminal spikes.

For shady areas foxgloves are the ideal flowering herbs. Usually beginning in June, they provide blooms over a long time. My plants bloom a second time by producing small side shoots near the base that blooms after the main flower stalks have died. Though the foxglove may be considered a medicinal herb, it should never be used for self-medication. This plant is poisonous!

Hyssop is a delightful June-flowering herb. This compact perennial bears whorls of small flowers on dense spikes. These long-lasting flowers may be violet or blue.

Lavender needs no introduction. Even if it never bloomed this fragrant herb would still be worth growing. It offers exquisite blooms in tall spikes. The flowers last for a very long time.

Not everyone welcomes the flowers of lavender cotton. Some think they're a distraction from the main feature-the strong scented, finely cut, gray foliage. The small, bright yellow flowers form little daisy-like heads.

Lovage isn't a commonly grown herb. But it deserves more attention. This perennial is an excellent choice for the edible landscape. In June and July it bears very small yellow blooms in four-inch clusters.

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