Cyperus alternifolius (sy-PEER-us al-tern-ee-FOH-lee-us) is a grass-like perennial plant native to tropical areas of Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Peninsula. Because of its tropical habitat, this is one of the few plants you can’t overwater. Instead, it prefers a swamp-like atmosphere, often planted in water or a double pot filled with water. In addition to … Read more
Cistus purpureus [SIS-tus, pur-PUR-ee-us] is a perennial shrub, known for its bushy evergreen foliage and large purplish-pink flowers. It’s native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in rocky soil, along with other plants in the Cistus genus. Commonly called rockroses, Cistus plants belong to the Cistaceae family, which only contains about 20 species. The … Read more
On these busy days, homeowners are interested in gardens that require a minimum of care. Whether gardeners know plants well or simply like to “grow things” the first step is to consider the planning, planting, and upkeep. Otherwise, it is easy to become involved in both. The design and size of the garden must conform … Read more
Duchesnea indica, now commonly known as Potentilla indica (poh-ten-TILL-uh IN-dih-kuh), is an evergreen perennial belonging to the genus Potentilla and a member of the family Rosaceae, also called the rose family. It was previously named Duchesnea indica and originally Fragaria indica but was changed into Potentilla indica because botanists considered this plant most closely related … Read more
If you’re looking for a plant that is both beautiful and easy to care for, then the Rhoeo spathacea, or Moses-in-the-cradle plant, is the perfect choice for you. This tropical perennial is native to Mexico and Central America, and its name comes from the shape of its flowers, which resemble Moses in a cradle. The … Read more
Ageratum houstonianum (aj-eh-RA-tum hews-tun-EE-an-um) is an annual often used in garden beds or outdoor containers. It is a member of the genus Ageratum and the family Asteraceae. Ageratum houstonianum is native to southern Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize, though it has spread to other areas. It grows naturally in forest clearings, pastures, and shrub-covered ground up … Read more
Fall is a good time to plant. The pleasant weather tempts one to be outside. Moisture conditions are usually good. Should spring planting be delayed by cold, wet weather, many valuable weeks of growing time are given to the plants if they have been planted in the fall. Of course, for the gardeners like me … Read more
Asparagus meyeri is an evergreen perennial commonly referred to as the Asparagus fern. However, despite its common name, it is not a real fern. Instead, depending on the classification system used, it belongs to the asparagus family (Asparagaceae) or the lily family (Liliaceae). Several other Asparagus species are also called Asparagus fern, including: Asparagus plumosus … Read more
Ligularia tussilaginea, commonly called leopard plant or leopard’s bane, is a rosette-forming perennial native to mountain regions of central and southwest China, Japan, and Taiwan. This plant is a member of the Asteraceae family. The genus name comes from the Latin word ligula, meaning strap, about strap-shaped leaves. The specific epithet resembles tussilago, a genus … Read more
Gaillardia must surely be the most agreeable, easy-to-have the plant in cultivation. Like Topsy, it “just grows.” It thrives and faithfully produces bushels of flowers in the severest drougth when all the “sissy” flowers – yea, even weeds – dry up and blow away. Then it does even better when the rains come. Features Of … Read more