Exacum affine (EKS-uh-kum uh-FEE-nee), more often known as the Persian violet, is a lovely flowering house plant, but it isn’t a genuine violet. Instead, it belongs to the Gentianaceae family and more closely resembles the impatiens of the garden type. It is native to Yemen but has become a common greenhouse plant because of its … Read more
Factors affecting the growth of rhododendrons and azaleas are several, all of which are so bound together as to constitute a balanced system in which the plant’s growth is a measure of the whole. In marginal situations, where one factor or another is unsuitable for these plants, the balance may be upset, the conditions complicated … Read more
If you know another language, such as Spanish, you might be familiar with the word “ananas.” This is the common name for a tropical fruit native to South America, which is also sometimes called the “pineapple.” The scientific name for this fruit is Ananas comosus, a member of the Bromeliaceae family. There are 1600 members … Read more
Salt spray and ocean winds often limit us in selecting plants for gardens at the seashore. Then too, sandy soils which are easily displaced in severe storms make it necessary to use ground covers to prevent erosion and conserve soil moisture. But even if gardening near the sea is a challenging experience, it is a … Read more
If you like succulent plants, then you’ll love the aeonium. Aeoniums are a type of succulent that comes in various colors and shapes. They are native to a few places based on their variety, such as the Canary Islands, Morocco, and Madeira. Aeonium is an excellent plant for indoor or outdoor gardens, as they are … Read more
This succulent plant Agave Americana is a popular choice for home gardens as it is relatively easy to care for. It is also referred to as a Century plant. Native to Mexico and Central America, the Agave Americana can grow up to 6′ to 9′ feet tall and wide. Its blue-green leaves are edged with … Read more
Most of us are familiar with Portulaca grandiflora, sometimes known as rose-moss. It produces patches of red, yellow, pink, orange, or white flowers all summer in the hottest and driest places and under the most trying circumstances. Purslane (Purslane Oleracea) This same quality of perseverance exists in a near relative of portulaca, purslane (Purslane oleracea), … Read more
Among the 300-odd members of its tribe, the weeping or Babylonia willow (Salix babylonica) is the most widely known for its unique value as a landscape tree. Only the pussywillows, prime favorites of millions who welcome the early foretastes of spring, can match it in popularity. A typical weeping willow reaches its full height of … Read more
The Siebold Viburnum is a tall, vigorous shrub that can easily be considered one of the best viburnums for ornamental use. A native of Japan, it was introduced into America about 1880, but for some reason, it has not become as well known in this country as it should. Normally, it may grow to 30′ … Read more
The gray-leaved yarrow, Achillea argentea, is a pleasing low plant not often seen in gardens. It is equally valuable for the low border or the rock garden as it does not take up too much space nor spread from root runners. Achillea Argentea Characteristics Leaves are feathery and woolly, with a silvery sheen. The individual … Read more