Totem Pole Cactus: Native Area, History, Characteristics, USDA Zones & Cultivation

The Totem Pole cactus, scientifically known as Pachycereus schottii monstrosus, is native to the arid landscapes of Baja California, Mexico, and extends into some parts of the Sonoran Desert in the United States, particularly around the southernmost areas of Arizona. This unique cactus thrives in the warm, dry climates of these regions, often found on … Read more

Foxtail Fern: Native Area, History, Characteristics, USDA Zones & Cultivation

The Foxtail fern, botanically known as Asparagus densiflorus ‘Myersii’, originates from the rocky, open woods, savanna thickets, and coastal areas of southeastern South Africa. This region’s climate, typically warm and humid, with well-draining soils, has shaped the plant’s adaptations, allowing it to thrive in similar conditions elsewhere. The Foxtail fern has been recognized for its … Read more

Peanut cactus: Native Area, History, Characteristics, USDA Zones & Cultivation

The peanut cactus, known scientifically as Echinopsis chamaecereus, hails from the mountainous regions of Argentina. Specifically, it originates from around bushes and rocks in the province of Tucumán, where it grows in a habitat that is both dry and rocky, perfect for its shallow root system. The stems of this cactus are elongated, cylindrical, and … Read more

Jerusalem sage (Phlomis fruticosa): Native Area, USDA Zones, Characteristics & Cultivation

Jerusalem Sage, or Phlomis fruticosa, is native to the Mediterranean region, specifically found in countries like Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, and parts of Italy. It thrives in the Mediterranean scrubland, on rocky hillsides, and along the coasts where it benefits from the region’s climate – hot, dry summers, and mild, wet winters. This environment has shaped … Read more

Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior): Native Area, Characteristics & Cultivation

The Cast Iron Plant, scientifically named Aspidistra elatior, is native to the forest floors of Eastern Asia, specifically originating from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and regions of China. It thrives in the understory of temperate and subtropical forests where the light is low, and the conditions are humid and sheltered. This environment has shaped its ability … Read more

Sensitive Plant (Mimosa pudica): Native Area, Characteristics & Cultivation

Mimosa pudica, commonly known as the Sensitive Plant or Touch-Me-Not, originates from the tropical and subtropical regions of South and Central America. Its native range stretches from southern Mexico through Central America into South America, including countries like Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. Here, it grows in disturbed habitats, such as roadsides, pastures, and along riverbanks, … Read more

Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina): Native Area, Characteristics & Cultivation

The Weeping Fig, or Ficus benjamina, is indigenous to Asia and Australia, with its natural range spanning from India, through Southeast Asia, including countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, down to the north of Australia. In its native environment, it thrives in both tropical and subtropical regions, often growing in lowland rainforests, monsoon forests, or … Read more