Hinoki Cypress: History, Lifespan, Cultivars & Characteristics

Hinoki Cypress, scientifically known as Chamaecyparis obtusa, is an evergreen tree native to central Japan and Taiwan. It’s also called False Cypress or Japanese Cypress. It is a slow-growing evergreen tree that can reach up to 35 meters (115 feet) in height, though it is often smaller when cultivated. Dwarf hinoki cypress cultivars make good … Read more

15 Types of Guava Fruit Trees With Pictures

Guava fruit trees, scientifically known as Psidium guajava, are tropical trees native to Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and northern South America. They are found in many regions worldwide, including Africa, Asia, Central America, South America, and the West Indies. Guavas also grow in southwestern Europe, specifically the Costa del Sol on Málaga, (Spain) and Greece where guavas have … Read more

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

Blueberry Guava Tree: History, Lifespan, Growth Rate & Where To Grow

The blueberry guava tree, also known as Psidium cattleyanum or Cattley guava, is a species of guava native to Brazil. It was named after William Cattley, a 19th-century English horticulturist who first cultivated the plant in Europe. The tree is a member of the myrtle family, Myrtaceae, which includes other well-known fruits like feijoa and … Read more

Golden Shower Tree (Cassia Fistula)

Facts Details Scientific Name Cassia fistula Common Names Golden Shower Tree, Indian Laburnum, Pudding-Pipe Tree Hardiness Zones USDA Zones 10 and 11 Light Requirements Full sun to partial shade Soil Well-draining, fertile soil Watering Water regularly, but avoid overwatering Fertilizer Balanced fertilizer, applied every 2-3 months during the growing season Pruning Prune to maintain desired … 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