Arizona Ash Tree (Fraxinus velutina): Characteristics, USDA Zones & Cultivation

The Arizona Ash, scientifically named Fraxinus velutina, is indigenous to the southwestern United States and parts of northwestern Mexico. Its natural range includes states like Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, Texas, and Utah, where it grows in riparian zones, along washes, and in canyons or foothills where moisture is more available than in the surrounding … Read more

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

San Pedro Cactus: Native Area, History, Characteristics, USDA & Cultivation

The San Pedro cactus, scientifically known as Echinopsis pachanoi, has its roots deeply embedded in the Andean regions of South America, notably in countries like Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Argentina. This majestic cactus thrives in the high altitudes of the Andes Mountains, where it has adapted to the harsh, arid conditions of its native environment, … Read more

Texas Sage (Leucophyllum Frutescens): Native Area, Characteristics & Cultivation

Texas Sage, commonly known as Purple Sage or Texas Ranger, is native to the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. Its natural habitat spans across Texas, New Mexico, and parts of Arizona, where it’s found in the Chihuahuan and Sonoran Deserts, growing in dry, rocky, or sandy soils of scrublands, hillsides, and arroyos. This plant … 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