Saucer Magnolia: History, Lifespan, Growth Rate, Cultivars & More

The Saucer Magnolia, scientifically known as Magnolia x soulangeana, is a hybrid plant that was first bred in the early 19th century by a French plantsman named Étienne Soulange-Bodin. Soulange-Bodin was a retired cavalry officer who served under Napoleon Bonaparte. After retiring from the military, he pursued his passion for horticulture and became the director … Read more

Jane magnolia Tree: History, Growth Rate, Appearance & More

The Jane magnolia tree, scientifically known as Magnolia x ‘Jane’, has a fascinating history that intertwines botany, horticulture, and human ingenuity. This stunning tree is a result of a cross between Magnolia liliiflora ‘Reflorescens’ and Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily,’ both of which have their own rich histories. Magnolia liliiflora, also known as the lily magnolia or … Read more

Begonia Maculata (Polka Dot Begonia): Ultimate Growing & Caring Guide

Overview Begonia maculata is wonderful as summer container specimen that effortlessly lights up shady areas with lush leaves and masses of flowers. Begonias are one of the most prevalently cultivated plants in both tropical and subtropical climates. Begonias are also a popular choice in cooler climates as an indoor plant-a great way to brighten up … Read more

Foxglove Flowers (Witch Glove): Care & Growing Guide

Digitalis purpurea commonly referred to as Foxglove or Witch glove is a perennial plant with downward-facing, funnel-shaped blooms. It is native to Africa, central and northwestern Africa. Foxglove is usually grown as an ornamental plant due to its vivid flowers which range in color from various purple tints through pink and purely white. Foxglove thrive … Read more

Crape Myrtle: History, Growth Rate, Varieties & Care

Overview Whether as a shrub or a multi-stemmed tree, crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia) has something to offer during every season of the year, from colorful flowers to fall leaves to interesting bark. There are some 50 species of crepe myrtle in the genus Lagerstroemia, native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.  Crape myrtles are prized … Read more

Scented Geraniums: How To Grow And Care

The term “scented-leaved geraniums” refers to a group of species within the Pelargonium genus that have leaves that emit a fragrance when touched or lightly bruised. These plants are within the large group we generally know as “garden geraniums” or “annual geraniums,” which also includes ivy geraniums, zonal geraniums, and Martha Washington geraniums. Common name notwithstanding, it’s … Read more

Regal geraniums (Pelargonium x domesticum)

Regal geraniums (Pelargonium × domesticum) are a group of hybrid geraniums characterized by large, showy flowers and elegant appearance. Regal geraniums originate from hybridization involving Pelargonium grandiflorum and Pelargonium cucullatum. Also referred to as Martha Washington geraniums are suitable for various garden settings, including flower beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets. They also make excellent … Read more

Ivy leaf geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum)

Ivy leaf geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum) are a popular type of geranium with a trailing habit and ivy-shaped leaves. The plants like to spread outward and Flowers throughout the warmer months with round-like blooms. Due to their trailing or cascading growth habit. They are well-suited for hanging baskets, window boxes, containers, and elevated planters, where their long, … Read more

Zonal Geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum)

Zonal geraniums (Pelargonium x hortorum) are a popular type or group of Pelargonium cultivars, with leaves marked with a brown annular zone and inflorescence in the form of large balls of tight flowers, usually red, pink, or white. These are the most common geraniums of garden centers and florists, sold in pots for windowsills and balconies … Read more

Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus): Facts And How To Grow

Rose of Sharon, (Hibiscus syriacus, or Althaea syriaca), shrub or small tree, in the hibiscus, or mallow, family (Malvaceae), widely planted as an ornamental for its showy flowers. It native to south China and Taiwan but widely introduced elsewhere, including much of Europe and North America. It was given the epithet syriacus because it had been collected from gardens … Read more