Cecil was a true plantsman. Although very enthusiastic and interested in rhododendrons, he was also a collector of rare and unusual companion plants. Early in the spring the garden is blessed with drifts of Anemone deltoidea, nodding patches of Erythronium revolutum and numerous species and hybrid primulas. Scattered here and there in the garden are at least seven species of trilliums. Some of the loveliest and most appreciated companions in the garden are the hardy cyclamen. Hardy Cyclamen are native to the Mediterranean area. Western Oregon has a climate appropriately named a Mediterranean climate. In late summer Cardiocrinum giganteum makes a spectacular show. Cyclamen hederifolium makes a major impact in the garden in the autumn when little else is blooming. It virtually carpets several areas. It is followed by C. coum in the spring along with C. repandum. Many of the companion plants are offered for sale during the garden open days.

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Cyclamen repandum	Pulmonaria augustifolia Variegated form	Hosta

The plants of the understory are protected and shaded by ornamental trees. Several flowering cherries brighten the garden in the spring. Selected forms of Acer palmatum add texture and autumn color. Quercus rubrum, Liquidambar styraciflua and Cornus florida add fall leaf color. Cecil liked to reveal the trunk of the larger rhododendrons. He planted trees that have interesting trunks. Acer griseum has peeling, shiny reddish brown bark. Betula jacquemontii has dazzling white bark. Prunus serrulata planted adjacent to the driveway displays shining mahogany bark.

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Acer circinatum	Narcissus cyclamineus	Mahonia aquafolium

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