NC Zoo’s Annual Plant Sale Returns This Mother’s Day Weekend

ASHEBORO N.C. (ACME NEWS) — Mother’s day is just around the corner, and that means so is one of the Zoo’s most anticipated seasonal events — the annual Plant Sale. 

On Saturday, May 10, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors can browse and purchase a curated selection of plants grown by the Zoo’s expert horticulture team. The sale will take place at the Solar Pointe picnic area, located at the south end of the North America parking lot near the Zoo’s North America entrance and Zoo admission is not required to attend the sale. 
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, there’s something for everyone. This year’s sale includes plants perfect for native, woodland, rain, and butterfly gardens. 

Here are five standout selections you can find at this year's sale:
 

Itea virginica (Virginia Sweetspire)

Height: 4–8 ft | Width: 3–6 ft | Flower Color: White

This NC native shrub thrives in part shade with moist, well-draining soil. It’s a magnet for butterflies, hummingbirds, and songbirds, making it a beautiful and beneficial addition to any garden. It’s said to have an attractive smell and as a bonus: it’s deer-resistant!
 

Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed)

Height: 1–2 ft | Width: 1–1.5 ft |Flower Color: Vibrant Orange

An important pollinator plant, this vibrant native of North Carolina is sun-loving and a favorite for butterfly gardens. It provides essential support for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and moths. While it's both deer- and rabbit-resistant, be aware that it is toxic to dogs, cats, and humans — and extremely toxic to horses, cattle, and other livestock.
 

Hibiscus coccineus (Scarlet Rose Mallow)

Height: 6–8 ft | Width: 2–3 ft | Flower Color: Bold Red

Native to swamps, marshes & ditches of the coastal plain and known for its large and deep-scarlet red tropical-like flowers, this perennial thrives in full to part shade with moist soil. Expect visits from butterflies and hummingbirds all summer long.

Amorphophallus konjac (Voodoo Lily)

Height: 4–6 ft | Width: 2–4 ft | Flower Color: Brown, Purple, Red

Native to the forest edges and thickets of China, and now found throughout much of eastern Asia, this unusual plant can start a conversation in any garden. Each year, it produces a single dramatic leaf and flower stem. In spring, its large purple blooms release a brief but powerful scent resembling rotting flesh, which attracts beneficial predatory insects for pollination. Once pollinated, the odor fades. It prefers shade and moist, well-draining soil. Note: its roots and leaves are mildly toxic if consumed raw.
 

Sanchezia nobillis (Yellow Vein Plant)

Height: 3–6 ft

Preferring part shade to sun (2–4+ hrs/day), and growing best in rich, loamy soil with good drainage, this tropical stunner features striking yellow-veined leaves and is ideal as a patio or houseplant. Add a touch of the exotic to indoor or patio garden. 
 

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Don’t miss this opportunity to take home a unique piece of the Zoo’s garden! Cash, checks, and — new this year — credit cards are accepted. Come early for the best selection as quantities on some plants are limited.