A 3-year-old zenobia awaits mulching after transporation. The perennial shrub can flourish in a variety of soil types and conditions.

Zenobia was the queen of Palmyra (Syria) from 267 to 272 AD. Among her attributes as a warrior and leader, she was of exceptional beauty and strength.

Zenobia pulverulenta (or dusty zenobia), is a perennial shrub whose flowers are beautiful and whose strength allows it to flourish in a variety of soil types and conditions.

Zenobia is in the Ericaceae family, which includes blueberries, azaleas, camellias and heathers. While native to the Southeastern United States, zenobia can flourish in the USDA zone 6 climate.

Zenobia is a red stemmed shrub that sports blue/green foliage in the spring and summer and reddish/purple color in the fall. In late spring, the plant blooms with white, bell-shaped anise-scented flowers that resemble lily of the valley.

A slow grower, it reaches a full size of 3 to 6 feet in height and 3 to 4 feet in width.

Zenobia prefers wet, acidic soil with full sun and part shade lighting, similar to its other family members like blueberries and azaleas. Avoid spring pruning because it blooms on the previous year's growth. Prune in the fall once blooming is completed. Zenobia is not affected by any significant insects or diseases.

There are a variety of garden applications for this plant including as a specimen plant. Use multiple plants as a hedge or to cover a wide swath of ground. As a result of its preference for moist soil, site near a pond or water source. Mix with azaleas for a longer spring blooming period and with blueberries for contrasting blooms as well.Zenobia is an under-utilized garden shrub that offers four season interest in the landscape. Like Zenobia the Palmyra queen, find a garden location for this the garden queen.If you have questions about perennial shrubs, call the Master Gardener Garden Hotline at 724-287-4761, Ext. 7, or email the Master Gardeners at butlermg@psu.edu.Master Gardeners and Extension educators from across the state answer questions during “Garden Hotline LIVE.” Submit questions for the live show at pennstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fbKDzHz5bNgknj. To watch the show, visit the statewide Penn State Extension Master Gardener group page: www.facebook.com/groups/696217890434068.Lisa Marie Bernardo, Ph.D., RN, is a Penn State Master Gardener of Butler County.

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Lisa Marie Bernardo, PhD, RN, has been a Penn State Master Gardener in Butler County since 2003. Her gardening passions include native plant garden design and she is a Sustainable Landscape Designer, certified through Phipps Conservatory. Dr. Bernardo is interested in the effects of physical activity for cancer survivors and enjoys teaching about the physical benefits of gardening.