Ilex or holly is a large genus of shrubs with over 550 recognized species. These flowering shrubs can be evergreen or deciduous, depending on the species. Native to temperate and subtropical regions worldwide, the most diverse range of species are found in the Americas and parts of Asia. Although holly is a flowering plant, it … Read more
Narcissus is a genus of around 50 species. They are bulbous plants in the amaryllis family, Amaryllidaceae. Most species are spring flowering perennials! They are extremely popular as spring bulbs, and their flowers are easily recognized in the wild by their large cupped yellow flowers. They easily hybridize in the wild, but many horticultural crosses … Read more
Daffodils are one of the most popular spring bulbs! They belong to the genus Narcissus and there are around 50 species. Daffodils are divided into 13 groups botanically, but the most popular garden varieties are N. pseudonarcissus, N. jonquilla, and N. poeticus, and their hybrids. The genus name Narcissus comes from Greek Mythology where a … Read more
Hoodia are fantastic succulents that are often mistaken as cacti due to their growth forms. Instead of producing slender shoots with fleshy leaves, they grow as enlarged columnar stems that are covered in spikes. This adaptation has allowed them to thrive in a harsh desert environment. Ornamental varieties are best grown outdoors as sunlight is … Read more
Gasteraloe succulents are delightful plants that will add a little color and interest to your collection. It’s believed that these plants originated in South Africa and are a hybrid mix between Aloe and Gasteria succulent. These hybrid plants have the same pretty rosette structure as aloe and thick fleshy leaves that hold moisture. These are … Read more
Hoodia is a small group of succulents that look remarkably like cacti. Instead of having the typical rosette form with fleshy leaves for water storage, it produces enlarged shoots with fine spines. Some species under this genus can grow remarkably tall, up to almost 7 feet in height! Shoots may develop multiple branches over time, … Read more
Gasteraloe is a hybrid succulent that has interesting markings and colorings. It’s a succulent that is easy to care for and quite unusual in its appearance. This succulent has thick leaves that are designed to store water and have toothed edges. Each plant produces offsets quite readily and these can be used to propagate new … Read more
If you’re new to cactus growing, you might like to consider starting with a few of these small or mini cactus plants. These are ideal for growing in small pots on a bright windowsill. Or, if your desk gets plenty of bright light, these would look great grouped together to add a little sunshine to … Read more
Gasteria succulents are quite rare and similar to Aloe. They’re native to South Africa and many of the species have thick, succulent leaves that have a rough texture. That’s why these plants are commonly called ox tongue or cow’s tongue. These leaves usually have interesting markings such as white spots, warts or attractive bands. Their … Read more
Coral bells are interesting foliage plants that can add both foliage color and texture to any landscape. These perennial plants form lovely low-growing mounds which makes them suitable for a variety of different garden areas including rock gardens, raised garden beds, borders, and woodland settings. Although coral bells do have small, bell-shaped flowers on long … Read more