BANGOR – Orono’s popular bicentennial plant sale returns for 2006, with a selection of 10 perennials chosen for their historical significance – though some are improved cultivars of heirloom varieties.

Among the offerings are New England Aster “Alma Potschke;” Threadleaf Coreopsis “Moonbeam;” an old-fashioned bleeding heart; Echinacea “Magnus;” lemon lily; Siberian Iris “Caesar’s Brother;” Shasta Daisy “Alaska;” Bee Balm “Jacob Cline;” Phlox “David;” and the showstopper peony “Raspberry Sundae.”

The plants are offered at a substantial discount to ensure Orono will be awash in colorful blooms for summer 2006, the town’s bicentennial year.

Local plant experts Alma Otto and Chris Dorion have also compiled a list of complementary heirloom plants that were found in the area in the early 1800s. A brochure that includes heirloom garden recommendations, as well as an order form, is available at Parks Hardware, the town office, Orono Public Library, The Store-Ampersand and Orono Pharmacy.

Orders must be received by April 15. Plants will be distributed in mid-May.

All proceeds will benefit Orono’s bicentennial festivities. For information, call Lisa Colburn at 866-3861 or visit www.orono2006.com.