AMERICAN GARDENER

Japanese Cedar, or Cryptomeria japonica, belongs to the Cupressaceae family, a diverse clan of conifers that includes cypresses, junipers, and redwoods. Despite its common name, it’s not a true cedar (genus Cedrus), but its wood and form earned it the moniker. The genus Cryptomeria is monotypic, meaning it’s the sole species within it, with japonica … Read more

Dwarf Alberta Spruce, known scientifically as Picea glauca ‘Conica’, is a cultivar of the white spruce within the Pinaceae family, a group that includes pines, firs, and other conifers. The genus Picea encompasses about 35 species of evergreen trees, primarily native to northern temperate and boreal regions. The species Picea glauca, or white spruce, is … Read more

Linden Arrowwood, known botanically as Viburnum dilatatum, belongs to the Adoxaceae family, a group of flowering plants that includes other viburnums, elderberries, and a handful of lesser-known shrubs. Previously classified under Caprifoliaceae (the honeysuckle family), it was reorganized into Adoxaceae based on modern genetic and morphological studies, reflecting its closer kinship with plants like Sambucus. … Read more

Fruiting and berry-producing shrubs are a brilliant way to blend practicality with natural beauty in any outdoor space. These plants churn out edible treasures—think juicy, sweet, or tart delights—while doubling as eye-catching features with their flowers, foliage, and seasonal shifts. They’re a win for gardeners who want fresh harvests without sacrificing style. What’s great about … Read more

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance shrubs are a gardener’s dream for creating a thriving landscape without constant upkeep. These plants are built to survive with minimal water, making them ideal for regions prone to dry spells or for anyone looking to cut down on irrigation. Their resilience comes from adaptations like deep roots, waxy leaves, or silvery … Read more

African cuisine boasts a vibrant array of vegetables that are staples across the continent. Green leafy plants hold a central place in daily meals, often served alongside staples like maize, rice, or yams. These vegetables are typically rich in nutrients and offer a natural source of vitamins and minerals, supporting both flavor and health. They … Read more

Green vegetables encompass a wide range of edible plants, prized for their vibrant hues and diverse textures. They grow as leafy greens, crunchy stems, tender pods, or compact heads, offering flavors from mild and sweet to peppery and bitter. Their adaptability spans climates, from cool temperate zones to tropical regions, making them staples in gardens … Read more

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Apiaceae family, also known as the carrot or parsley family, which includes relatives like carrots (Daucus carota), celery (Apium graveolens), and dill (Anethum graveolens). Classified under the genus Foeniculum, its primary edible species is F. vulgare, with two main varieties: F. vulgare var. vulgare (wild … Read more

Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) is a perennial aquatic plant in the Brassicaceae family, commonly known as the mustard or cabbage family, alongside relatives like broccoli, kale, and radishes. It’s classified under the genus Nasturtium, distinct from the ornamental nasturtium (Tropaeolum), with N. officinale being the primary edible species. As a dicot, it features broad leaves and … Read more

Pepinos, scientifically classified as Solanum muricatum, belong to the Solanaceae family, commonly known as the nightshade family, which includes relatives like tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum), eggplants (Solanum melongena), and potatoes (Solanum tuberosum). This evergreen shrub produces a berry—technically a fruit, not a vegetable—despite its cucumber-like name in Spanish (“pepino” means cucumber). It’s a diploid species (2n … Read more