Radermachera sinica (rad-er-MACH-er-a SIN-i-ca) is a beautiful evergreen perennial that is relatively easy to maintain. Native to China and Taiwan, Radermachera sinica was initially grown as a subtropical plant in mountainous areas. However, it is primarily grown as a houseplant in the United States. Because of its subtropical origins, Radermachera sinica fares well outdoors in … Read more
Dracaena (dra-SEE-na) warneckii is a popular houseplant that is incredibly adaptable. In addition to its easy-going nature with soil, humidity, and light, the plant is surprisingly colorful. The Dracaena warneckii is like a chameleon that changes colors on its own. The only thing gardeners have to do is cut off the new colorful section and … Read more
The Polyscias fruticosa (pol-ISS-see-as froo-tih-KOH-suh) ‘elegans’ plant is an elegant houseplant with a long lifespan. It thrives as a houseplant because it’s compact, slow-growing, and requires little maintenance. The plant is most commonly referred to as Ming Aralia, although there are some other common names. This species of Polyscias is native to India to Polynesia, … Read more
Many “experts” in caring for African violets will tell you that no greater sin can be committed against your violets than to water them from the top. It would be best if you watered them from the bottom or with a unique self-watering pot for African violets. Others, equally proficient, say “Always water from the … Read more
I believe African violets have frustrated more people than all other houseplants. We read articles and books on their culture till we know just how it is to be done, what to do and what not to do. We buy good plants from reliable growers, get hand-tailored potting soil, and determine the light requirements of … Read more
Ficus lyrata is a broadleaf evergreen native to the tropical areas of western Africa. Because of its tropical origins, the plant does best in zones 10 to 12, where it can thrive in warm and moist conditions. In its native habitat, Ficus lyrata can grow up to 50′ feet, but it will grow to a … Read more
Tolmiea menziesii (TOL-mee-uh men-ZEE-see-eye) is a flowering hairy-leaved herbaceous perennial that often grows as a groundcover in wetlands and forests and along rivers and streams. The foliage resembles maple leaves and forms a thick groundcover. The plant is relatively fast-growing. The mature plant forms baby plantlets where the leaf meets the stem. These baby plantlets … Read more
When my little plants became over ¼” inch high, I prepared to pot them. I scrubbed two-inch pots clean and filled them with vermiculite. I often use sharp sand for this potting with excellent results; however, I notice that my violets bloom more quickly when plants are rooted in vermiculite, and since I’m always in … Read more
Euphorbia pulcherrima (yoo-FOR-bee-ah pul-cher-REE-mah), most commonly known as poinsettia, remains one of the most well-known Christmas ornamentals and holiday plants. It’s a semi-evergreen shrub that belongs to the genus Euphorbia and is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family, also known as the spurge family. They are also sometimes called Euphorbias in common English. The genus … Read more
The value of indoor gardening as a health-preserving and rest-promoting hobby is inestimable. It can supply necessary relaxation and ease mental tension in these trying times. If you’re not already an indoor garden hobbyist, you’ll find it worthwhile to start a window gardening venture this fall when your outdoor garden needs less attention. More than … Read more