‘Northern Explorer’ II(c/d) Available at Hartle-Gilman Gardens

Parentage: unnamed seedling X unnamed seedling R: F. Tarlton (pre 1985), G: F. Tarlton, N: F. Tarlton

(2003), I: Estate Perennials (2004), REG: E.E. Fox (2004) Inside moderate purplish pink (66D), throat white, each tepal with narrow white rim with tiny deep purplish red (71A) spots; outside moderate purplish pink (66D), midribs very pale purple (73D); spots deep purplish red (71A) with a white halo, on basal two-thirds of each tepal; nectaries pale orange-yellow (19D); pollen moderate red (179B); stigma dark red (187C). Fls 76 mm wide; tepals 38 × 14 mm, margins smooth, tips slightly recurved. Lvs whorled, 140 × 35 mm. Stems 1.45 m, mid green, with c.18 fls. Early July.(Named in honour of Canadian explorers.

There are many that I find very attractive, but I still to this day believe that this is a perfect example of a martagon for its charm, beauty and grace. This hybrid has many blooms that tower on wand like stems that tower over the deep rich foliage. ( Charm )  The display of patterns of not only the salmon color is appealing, but the intensity of the halo freckles  that attract so many pollinators. This design can be seen from across the field. Glowing with rich structure and (beauty.)  Then there is the simple elegance and refinement of effortless movement and how it presents itself for all to view. (Grace )

Northern Explorer is not an older hybrid, but it certainly has an explosion of qualities that are top notch in my books.

4-5 feet tall

Plant 4-5 feet deep in filtered light— Just avoid deep shade and wet conditions.