Common name:Creeping St. Johnswort, Aaronsbeard
Botanical name:Hypericum calycinum

Hypericum calycinum is semi-woody perennial groundcover. It has attractive blue-green foliage that stays evergreen in mild winters, sometimes taking on a purplish hue. It has interesting bright yellow flowers June through September, followed by red berries. It grows 12 to 18 inches tall and 24 inches wide, and spreads by underground runners. Does well in dry shade areas.

Common name:Western Water Birch
Botanical name:Betula occidentalis

Western Water Birch is a small tree or shrub, growing 20 to 30 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet wide. It tends to grow as a clump with upright, ascending branches. Leaves are oval, sharply pointed, prominently veined, and dark green. Fall color is yellow to orange. Spring catkins and small cone-like fruits mature in the fall and persist into winter, providing interest and forage for birds. Bark is smooth, reddish brown, with thin, cream lenticels (rather like a cherry tree). A Utah native.

Common name:Quaking Aspen
Botanical name:Populus tremuloides

Though iconic to the Rocky Mountains, Aspen aren't well suited to our urban and valley landscapes. They resent the summer heat and the lack of snow, and as such are prone to a host of disease and pest issues. And if that's not enough, their tendency to sucker can create a maintenance nightmare. Consider instead Serviceberry or Manchurian Ash for a similar appearance.