AMERICAN GARDENER

Plants that grow in water thrive in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments, with roots submerged or floating freely. These include true aquatics, marginal species, and houseplants adapted to hydroponics, found in ponds, aquariums, or indoor vases. They range from leafy floaters to rooted plants, enhancing water features or purifying ecosystems. Their ability to grow without soil … Read more

Flowers with three petals, often found in monocotyledonous plants, showcase a trimerous structure where floral parts typically occur in threes. These blooms may have three true petals or three petal-like sepals (tepals), creating a symmetrical, often star- or cup-shaped appearance. Common in families like Iridaceae and Liliaceae, they range from vibrant to delicate hues, thriving … Read more

Blackberries are juicy, dark fruits from the Rubus genus in the Rosaceae family, celebrated for their sweet-tart flavor and versatility. A hybrid of raspberries, dewberries, and other brambles, they grow on perennial shrubs with biennial canes, producing fruit in their second year or, in some cases, on first-year canes. Native to various regions worldwide, they … Read more

Boysenberries (Rubus ursinus × Rubus idaeus) are a hybrid bramble fruit, a cross between raspberries, blackberries, loganberries, and dewberries, known for their large, juicy, dark maroon berries with a sweet-tart flavor. Developed in the 1920s by Rudolph Boysen and popularized by Walter Knott of Knott’s Berry Farm, they are grown primarily in regions like California, … Read more

Flowers with thorns are a fascinating group of plants that combine stunning blooms with natural defenses. Thorns, spines, or prickles—sharp structures on stems, leaves, or branches—protect these plants from herbivores and environmental stress. They range from shrubs to trees and vines, thriving in diverse climates, from deserts to temperate regions. Their beauty often contrasts with … Read more

Botanical Classification Sea kale, scientifically known as Crambe maritima, belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which includes other leafy greens like kale, cabbage, and broccoli. It is a perennial herbaceous plant, distinct from true kales (Brassica oleracea), though it shares similar nutritional and culinary traits. Within the genus Crambe, sea kale is one of about 20 … Read more

Purple azaleas, part of the Rhododendron genus, are cherished for their vibrant blooms ranging from soft lavender to deep violet, adding elegance to gardens. Blooming primarily in spring, these shrubs thrive in acidic, well-drained soil (pH 4.5–6.0) and prefer partial shade to protect their delicate flowers from fading. They are versatile, fitting both formal and … Read more

Orange azaleas are deciduous shrubs in the Rhododendron genus, celebrated for their vibrant, fiery blooms that add warmth to gardens. Their orange to orange-red flowers, often fragrant, appear in spring, creating a stunning display. These azaleas thrive in acidic, well-drained soil (pH 4.5–6.0) and prefer partial shade to protect blooms from fading. Unlike evergreen azaleas, … Read more

Azalea bushes are popular flowering shrubs known for their vibrant, colorful blooms that appear in spring. They belong to the Rhododendron genus and come in both evergreen and deciduous varieties, offering different textures and year-round interest. These bushes thrive in partial shade and acidic, well-drained soil. They are often found in woodland gardens or under … Read more

Azaleas, members of the Rhododendron genus, are beloved flowering shrubs celebrated for their spectacular spring displays. They boast an incredible diversity in size, shape, and flower color, ranging from vibrant reds and pinks to delicate whites and purples. While many are deciduous, shedding their leaves in winter, some evergreen varieties retain their foliage year-round, adding … Read more