Cotoneaster is a very large genus of flowering shrubs in the rose family. There are cotoneasters that are low-growing, others used for ground cover, as well as some species that will grow as trees up to 10 feet (3.05 m) tall.  Although there are many species in the cotoneaster genus of shrubs, all produce dark-colored … Read more

Euonymus alatus (Burning Bush) is an ornamental shrub grown for its spectacular flame-red leaves and vibrant, red berries in fall. Native to Asia, this plant became a very popular addition to US gardens.  E. alatus is one of around 170 plants in the Euonymus genus. Also known as a winged spindle tree, the burning bush … Read more

Callistemon (bottlebrush) is a genus of perennial shrubs with around 50 recognized species. Native to Australia, this plant commonly grows in many regions of the world, both wild and cultivated.  History There is some confusion as to whether Callistemon is a genus in its own right, or whether these perennials should be classified as Melaleuca. … Read more

Colletia is a genus of flowering shrubs with five, spiky species. Native to Southern parts of South America, this plant commonly grows in dry and rocky places. Some species have a unique look and their appearance is relished by gardeners seeking out an out-of-the-ordinary, architectural plant.  These shrubs have a distinct, and unusual succulent-like appearance. … Read more

Everyone loves a cherry tree, but climbing up a ladder to pick the fruit is arduous and not always practical. The alternative is to leave the cherries for the birds to devour, which they certainly will!   But, a bush cherry is fast-growing that will fruit after just a couple of years, and, best of all, … Read more

Coral plant is a species of flowering plant in the Jatropha genus of shrubs, which is native to Mexico and the Caribbean. All parts of the plant, including the milky sap, are poisonous if ingested. The fruits are sweet tasting, but again toxic and dangerous. This perennial has been introduced to parts of South America, … Read more

Coprosma is one of the largest genera of flowering shrubs in New Zealand, with about 90 recognized species. The leaves of some species give off a pungent and unpleasant odor when crushed. Coprosma is native to Australia, New Zealand, and countries in the Pacific Ocean.  Species of this perennial shrub, also known as the mirror … Read more

Calotropis is a genus of shrubs commonly referred to as milkweed because of the latex substance discharged by the plant. Native to parts of Africa and Asia, this plant is considered a weed in many places.  Calotropis is a poisonous, flowering plant commonly found on neglected farmland. The two most common forms are known as … Read more

Until recently, the Carissa genus of shrubs contained around 100 recognized species, but many have now been assigned to other genera or simply as a synonym.  Native to tropical parts of Africa, Australia, and Asia, Carissa grows as a shrub or small tree. It has white, star-shaped flowers, followed by plum-like berries that are either … Read more