AMERICAN GARDENER

Solidago gigantea, commonly known as Giant Goldenrod or Late Goldenrod, is a member of the Solidago genus within the Asteraceae family, often referred to as the aster, daisy, or sunflower family. This species is distinguished by its tall stature and large, arching plumes of bright yellow flowers. The genus name “Solidago” derives from the Latin … Read more

Gelsemium sempervirens, commonly known as Yellow Jessamine or Carolina Jessamine, is part of the Gelsemium genus within the Gelsemiaceae family. This species is notable for its vibrant, funnel-shaped, yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. Previously, it was classified under the Loganiaceae family, but recent taxonomic studies have placed it in its own family, reflecting its … Read more

Calochortus nuttallii, commonly known as the Sego Lily, is a member of the Calochortus genus in the Liliaceae family, which is also referred to as the lily family. This species is notable for its tulip-shaped flowers, which feature three large petals that are typically white with a yellow base and often have a purplish or … Read more

Epigaea repens, commonly known as the Mayflower or Trailing Arbutus, belongs to the Epigaea genus within the Ericaceae family, which is also known as the heath or heather family. This species is characterized by its low-growing, evergreen habit, with small, fragrant, pink or white flowers that bloom in early spring. The genus name “Epigaea” comes … Read more

Anemone patens, commonly known as the Pasque Flower, is part of the Anemone genus within the Ranunculaceae family, which is often referred to as the buttercup family. This species is characterized by its bell-shaped, purplish-blue to lavender flowers that bloom early in spring, sometimes even through late snow. The name “Anemone” comes from the Greek … Read more

Castilleja species, commonly known as Indian Paintbrush, belong to the Orobanchaceae family, which was formerly part of the Scrophulariaceae family before taxonomic reclassification. This genus is known for its vibrant, often red or orange bracts that surround less conspicuous flowers, giving the plant its distinctive “paintbrush” appearance. The name Castilleja honors Spanish botanist Domingo Castillejo. … Read more

Lupinus texensis, commonly known as the Texas Bluebonnet, is a member of the Lupinus genus within the Fabaceae (or Leguminosae) family, which is commonly referred to as the pea or legume family. This species is an annual plant noted for its vivid blue flowers, although variations in color can include white, pink, and maroon. The … Read more

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as Purple Coneflower, is part of the Echinacea genus within the Asteraceae family, which is also known as the daisy or sunflower family. This species is characterized by its large, daisy-like flowers with prominent, cone-shaped, spiny central disks surrounded by drooping, purple to pink petals. The name “Echinacea” comes from the … Read more

Coreopsis is a genus within the Asteraceae family, commonly known as the aster, daisy, or sunflower family. The name “Coreopsis” is derived from the Greek words “koris” (bug) and “opsis” (appearance), referring to the shape of the seed which resembles a bug or tick, leading to the common name “Tickseed.” There are over 80 species … Read more

Oenothera biennis, commonly known as Evening Primrose, is part of the Oenothera genus within the Onagraceae family, which is also known as the evening primrose or willowherb family. This species is a biennial, meaning it completes its life cycle over two years, with the first year focused on vegetative growth and the second on flowering … Read more