AMERICAN GARDENER

The term “ebony tree” commonly refers to several species within the genus Diospyros in the Ebenaceae family, with Diospyros ebenum (Ceylon ebony) and Diospyros crassiflora (Gabon ebony) being among the most prominent. The Diospyros genus includes over 700 species of trees and shrubs, many of which produce the dense, dark heartwood known as ebony. These … Read more

The Buddha’s Temple plant, scientifically known as Crassula pyramidalis ‘Buddha’s Temple’, belongs to the Crassulaceae family, commonly referred to as the stonecrop or orpine family. This succulent is a hybrid, typically derived from a cross between Crassula pyramidalis and Crassula perfoliata or Crassula falcata, depending on the source. The genus Crassula encompasses a diverse group … Read more

Agave angustifolia, commonly known as the Caribbean Agave or Narrow-Leaved Agave, is classified within the Asparagaceae family, subfamily Agavoideae. The Agave genus encompasses numerous species of rosette-forming succulents, and A. angustifolia is notable for its versatility and historical significance. Taxonomically, it is closely related to other economically important agaves, such as Agave tequilana. The species … Read more

Purple fruits and vegetables owe their striking color to anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that give them a vibrant hue. These compounds are more than just eye-catching—they’re linked to health benefits like reducing inflammation and supporting heart health. The deep shades signal a high concentration of nutrients, making these foods a smart addition to any diet. Beyond … Read more

Salt-tolerant plants are naturals for harsh coastal or roadside environments, thriving where others wilt. They adapt by storing salt in leaves, excreting it through glands, or diluting it with water reserves. These resilient species bring life to sandy, saline soils with minimal care. Their roots often play a dual role, anchoring loose soils while resisting … Read more

Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca) belongs to the Poaceae family, a diverse grass lineage, and is classified within the genus Festuca, which includes over 300 species of cool-season grasses. Specifically, F. glauca is a perennial bunchgrass, taxonomically distinct for its fine, needle-like leaves and compact, tufted growth habit. Its botanical name reflects its glaucous (bluish-gray) foliage, … Read more

Basil (Ocimum spp.), an aromatic herb in the Lamiaceae family, is prized for its culinary versatility, ornamental appeal, and medicinal uses. Native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa, it encompasses over 60 species and countless cultivars, varying in flavor, leaf shape, size, and growth habits. Known for square stems, opposite leaves, and whorled flowers, … Read more

Bentgrass, belonging to the genus Agrostis within the Poaceae family, encompasses over 100 species of cool-season, perennial grasses. Key species include Agrostis stolonifera (creeping bentgrass), Agrostis capillaris (colonial bentgrass), Agrostis canina (velvet bentgrass), and Agrostis tenuis (brown bentgrass). Characterized by fine, narrow blades (1–3 mm wide) and a dense, low-growing habit, bentgrasses spread via stolons … Read more

Buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides) is a warm-season, perennial shortgrass native to North America’s Great Plains, from Canada to Mexico. A keystone of prairie ecosystems, it spreads via stolons, forming a low, dense sod (3–12 inches unmowed) with fine to coarse blades (1–3.5 mm). It’s prized for drought tolerance and low maintenance, thriving in Zones 4–10. Its … Read more

Ryegrass (Lolium spp.), a cool-season grass in the Poaceae family, hails from Europe, Asia, and North Africa, thriving in temperate climates (Zones 5–9). Known for rapid germination (5–10 days) and lush growth, it forms dense bunches or, in some hybrids, spreads via stolons. It’s a staple for lawns, pastures, and erosion control, with annual and … Read more