In searching for miniatures I’ve culled through my large collection of catalogues from Burpee to Vaughn and have compiled a list of small annuals I have either grown, or expect to grow the coming season. Not all of them are compact versions of their larger relatives. Many by nature are on the diminutive side. So many of them are old friends, let’s call them by their first names—the ones by which they are listed in most seed booklets. The plants I have in mind are mostly eight inches in height or less, though some of the longer-stemmed charmers may slip in simply because they are too lovely to be left out. We’ll give colors for those who have color schemes in mind for their gardens.
Ageratum
This annual, a great garden favorite, is also known as the floss flower. In general it is a profuse bloomer that is fine for borders, edgings, rock gardens, small flower beds, and even as a house plant. It comes in several colors but usually in the same sizes, two to six inches.
‘Blue Ball’—This name is especially descriptive. The plants shape up as round as a ball and then cover themselves with dark-blue flowers. Who can expect more of one so small?
‘Blue Mink’—My friends who write seed catalogues, and so see many beautiful plants, rave about this one as being true blue, the real ageratum color. Its blooms, pretty as they are, grow surprisingly large for a bush so small.
‘Imperial White Dwarf’—For its contrast I love this one, a pattern of white surrounded by the blues, pinks, and reds of other annuals.
‘Midget Blue’—This is my real pet, a really tiny one of uniform shape, never over three inches tall and with the most delicate blue ageratum flowers.
Alyssum (Sweet)
This is just about the nicest thing that can happen to your garden be it annual, miniature, or otherwise. Although some members of this family may reach twelve inches, most of them run from three to five inches.
‘Carpet of Snow’—Much like ‘Royal Carpet’ for spreading, but has white flowers instead of purple.