Clouds of ruby-mauve fill the air in August and September above rounded, dense tussocks of fine foliage. As its name suggests, it is indeed undaunted, thriving despite drought, wet, clay, stone, heat, cold, humidity, or deer! It’s the robust and long-lived product of a collaboration between the Denver Botanic Garden and Colorado State University via Scott and Lauren Springer-Ogden. Its grassy parents come from seeping limestone outcrops in Texas and the specific epithet is named for Julien Reverchon (18371905), Texas botanist. The genus namesake is a German-American botanist by the name of Muhlenberg (1753-1815). 2 feet tall by 2.5 feet wide, it’s well-behaved and remains interesting into winter. For a breathtaking atmospheric effect, plant it en masse where it will catch the early morning or late evening sun.

Minimum temperature: -20 F