AMERICAN GARDENER

Aleutites moluccana, commonly known as Kukui or Candlenut, is part of the Aleutites genus in the Euphorbiaceae family, which includes a diverse range of plants like poinsettias and cassava. This species is notable for its large, lobed leaves and the production of nuts that are used for various purposes. The name “moluccana” indicates an origin … Read more

Populus deltoides, commonly known as the Eastern Cottonwood or simply Cottonwood, is part of the Populus genus within the Salicaceae family, which also includes willows. This species is named ‘deltoides’ due to its triangular or deltoid-shaped leaves. It’s a fast-growing, deciduous tree known for its cotton-like seeds that are dispersed by wind. The Eastern Cottonwood … Read more

Cottonwood trees fall under the genus Populus in the willow family, Salicaceae. They are specifically within the section *Aigeiros*, commonly known as cottonwoods or poplars. These trees are dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate trees, leading to the production of cotton-like seeds from female trees. History: Cottonwoods have been significant in North … Read more

Rosa arkansana, commonly known as the Wild Prairie Rose or Arkansas Rose, is part of the Rosa genus within the Rosaceae family, which includes a wide variety of plants like roses, apples, and strawberries. This species is characterized by its small, pink flowers and its ability to form dense, thorny thickets. The species name “arkansana” … Read more

Aquilegia caerulea, commonly known as the Rocky Mountain Columbine or Colorado Blue Columbine, is part of the Aquilegia genus within the Ranunculaceae family, which is known as the buttercup or crowfoot family. This species is distinguished by its showy, spurred flowers, with the name “caerulea” indicating its blue color, although the flowers can also appear … Read more

Philadelphus lewisii, commonly known as Lewis’ Mock Orange or Syringa, is a member of the Philadelphus genus in the Hydrangeaceae family, which was previously classified under the Saxifragaceae family. This species is known for its fragrant, white, four-petaled flowers that give off a scent reminiscent of orange blossoms, hence the common name “Mock Orange.” The … Read more

Rhododendron macrophyllum, commonly known as the Coast Rhododendron or Pacific Rhododendron, is a member of the Rhododendron genus within the Ericaceae family, which is also known as the heath or heather family. This species is characterized by its large, leathery leaves and showy, bell-shaped flowers. The species name “macrophyllum” is derived from Greek, meaning “large-leaved,” … Read more

Phoradendron serotinum, commonly known as American Mistletoe, is part of the Phoradendron genus within the Santalaceae family, which includes parasitic plants. This species is a hemiparasitic plant, meaning it photosynthesizes but also draws water and nutrients from the host tree. The genus name “Phoradendron” comes from Greek words meaning “thief of the tree,” reflecting its … Read more

Rosa laevigata, commonly known as the Cherokee Rose, is part of the Rosa genus within the Rosaceae family, which encompasses a wide variety of plants including roses, apples, and strawberries. This species is distinguished by its evergreen nature in mild climates, large, white, fragrant flowers, and an abundance of sharp thorns. The species name “laevigata” … Read more

Trifolium pratense, commonly known as Red Clover, is a species within the Trifolium genus of the Fabaceae (or Leguminosae) family, which is also known as the pea or legume family. This plant is notable for its three-leaflet structure, typical of clovers, and its distinctive pink to reddish-purple flower heads. The name “Trifolium” derives from the … Read more