Thurman Maness aka Nabooko: Plantsman, writer, antiquarian

By Thurman Maness

Pittsboro, NC – I’m now 88 years old and have made Chatham County my home and work-base since 1973. Can’t imagine how it all worked and came together. A miracle; living off the land so to speak. Chatham, we’ve both grown and improved over the years.

Thurman Maness aka Nabooko at his 80th birthday. (photo by Pam Smith)

Although some aspects of livelihood change with advancing age, imagination definitely keeps me going strong. A local “character” of sorts. Living in the boonies. Chances are, 2025 could be the last for some things for me, but I’m expecting extraordinary things on other fronts. Working, planning, following thru. My plant sales, my antiques sales and sometimes bizarre “Hawaii shirt” sales all proven successful.

Especially on plants and plant sales, I’m looking forward to this coming 2025 season.

I specialize in various blooming hydrangeas and ornamental Japanese maples – especially the less common green-bronzed leaf Type Japanese maples. Other garden treasures available. Chatham’s most reliable source of Kerria Japonica “Shannon.” An emerald green twiggy shrub with vibrant tangerine colored blooms in late February/march. Various ferns, phlox, trillium, wild green hosta. Always something different than Lowes and Walmart offer. Definitely less expensive and good homegrown quality, grown in Chatham dirt. I personally grow everything I offer for sale.

Individual personalized service, knowledgeable of my trade..

In the 1990s, I hybridized/created a very special fern right here in Chatham county. “Ocean’s Fury” is the plant name. It was patented in my name and sold all over the world.

And of course I do enjoy submitting my folksy writings to the Chatham Chatlist. They seem to have found an audience. Even though some folks appear not too fond of those highlighting my adventures with buttermilk and poke salat.

My extensive planted  private garden is a horticultural accomplishment and in season, sometimes open to view, by appointment.

I’m located right on busy Hyway 64. Eleven miles east of Siler City and five miles west of Pittsboro. I’m working to improve car parking and turning around. I don’t always have regular “open” hours. So right now, winter, it is appointment only. And all sales are cash.

The address is 5233 US Highway 64 west. Pittsboro, NC. Five miles west of Pittsboro, eastbound lane. My cell number is 919 200 1968. I’m currently having a wee bit of trouble with my phone reception, so try again if contact fails.

Thank you for your patronage over the years . .and believe  it or not, there are  many, many more future adventures out there for you and me.

Let’s do it!