Plants

The cactus family (Cactaceae) is a fascinating world of bright flowers and spiny stems, ranging from tiny plants to the huge desert giants. All cactus are native to the Americas, with the exception of one species. Cacti are found from British Columbia to South America, sharing a few specialized characteristics that determine whether or not … Read more

As one of the most easily recognized tropical plants, Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia ssp) gets its common name from its unusual flowers, which resemble the beak and head plumage of a bird in flight. Native to South Africa, where it also is called the crane flower, Bird of Paradise type plants are popular in conservatory … Read more

Introduction Lilies add graceful elegance and fragrance to any garden, blooming from early summer all the way through fall, depending on the type. By carefully blending early, mid-season, and late varieties into your garden, you will enjoy their magnificent blooms from spring through first frost. At home in both formal and naturalistic settings, most lilies also … Read more

Sempervivum is a genus of about 40 species of flowering plants in the family Crassulaceae, commonly known as houseleeks. Other common names include liveforever and hen and chicks, a name shared with plants of other genera as well. It is a mat-forming succulent that produce rosettes of juicy leaves. These leaves are often covered by … Read more

The Aeonium genus consists of approximately 40 species of succulents, many of which are grown as container or garden plants. Aeoniums are characterized by their spiraling, succulent leaf rosettes and their panicles of small white or yellow blooms. The genus name derives from the Greek word “aionion,” or ever living, which references the ability some … Read more

A succulent is any plant with thick, fleshy (succulent) water storage organs. Succulents store water in their leaves, stems, or roots. Succulent plants are some of the hardiest, most drought tolerant in the world and very easy to maintain, as long as they are planted in a porous soil, proper drainage, daily bright light, and not over watered. … Read more

What are Perennials? Perennials are those flowers that return reliably year after year—whereas annuals are those one-season wonders that add color and need to be replaced every spring. It’s the perennials which form the backbone of a garden, whereas annual are planted for spots of color. Think of perennials as the foundation.  An advantage of perennials is that they require minimum … Read more

The variety of flowers that can be found in Mexico has fascinated every flower lover for years now; each landscape in Mexico has its own unique flowers. Its land produces a stunning arrangement of flowers that seems to blend smoothly. A common item found in all Mexican homes is flowers. Home gardens in Mexico are … Read more

In much of Florida, the climate is sub-tropical, with mild winters (but subject to short cold spells) and hot, sunny summers. In these place (Florida), there are numerous flowers, shrubs, trailing vines, and evergreen plants all come together to add beauty to landscapes and gardens. A lot of flowers that thrive in shade or sun are … Read more

Hawaiian flora is beautiful and diverse. A subtropical region, Hawaii has a year-round warm climate and soil heavy with volcanic ash – two elements that play a role in the healthy growing of a wide variety of flowers and plants. There are three categories of Hawaiian flora – endemic, native and introduced. Endemic refers to … Read more