thanks nonmember, Pedicularis looks right. Thedecoguy: Phyteuma looks like a match, thanks! I don't think number 4 is Pulsatilla - I've never seen a pulsatilla with blue stamens/pistils.

Hey Steve , did you happen to get a pic of the "Robert Young " culms?Ive been going back and forth with Dave,trying to narrow down my search.Your pics of your visit are very helpful. First, the "spectabilis"takes on too much damage from the heavy snow , bending too much.I don't want the aggravation of constantly worrying about that. second, Dave told me his "Robert Young" didn't have the green stripes that he wanted, but, if the bending is minimal, i would be interested, as the yellow culms are very nice. third, after viewing your pics, the "Dulcis " caught my eye big time.It looks to be a fast spreader, with beautiful dark culms that can get upwards of 3".And non bending. If the Robert Young is in good shape(no bending), i would consider that and Dulcis.Im not sure if i could mingle them though, Dulcis looks strong Really what i need to do is take a trip up there to check it out, but if i can make 1 trip, and pick up that day, that would be better. Thanks, Bob

One of my favorites is Thamnocalamus crassinodus v. aristatus (also often called Thamnocalamus aristatus). It's hardy to about 5F or 10F, so might make it for you. It's a loose clumper about 12' and lovely powder blue culms.

I wish you were too, Sharon. You know, some of their sales are on-line only. You can pick the fabric up at their store, but you have to order it on-line. Seems kind of strange, but they must have their reasons.