AMERICAN GARDENER

Calendula, commonly known as pot marigold, belongs to the genus Calendula within the Asteraceae family, which includes daisies and sunflowers. The most widely cultivated species is Calendula officinalis, an annual or short-lived perennial. The genus comprises about 15–20 species of herbaceous plants, with C. officinalis being the primary species used in horticulture and herbalism. The … Read more

Trees with orange flowers bring a bold, tropical vibrancy to landscapes, their vivid blooms creating eye-catching focal points. Ranging from small shrubs to large canopy trees, these deciduous or evergreen species produce clusters of orange flowers in spring, summer, or year-round in warm climates. Their warm hues enhance gardens, from coastal to urban settings. The … Read more

Trees with yellow flowers are prized for their radiant blooms, which infuse landscapes with warmth and vibrancy. Ranging from small to towering, these deciduous or evergreen trees produce clusters of yellow flowers in spring, summer, or year-round in tropical climates. Their cheerful hues make them ideal as focal points or shade providers in diverse garden … Read more

The Australian Pine, commonly known as She-oak (Casuarina equisetifolia), belongs to the family Casuarinaceae, which includes about 90 species across four genera. It is classified within the genus Casuarina, named for its resemblance to the cassowary bird’s feathers due to its needle-like branchlets. The species name equisetifolia derives from its horsetail-like foliage, resembling the genus … Read more

Native Australian trees are iconic elements of the continent’s diverse landscapes, ranging from arid deserts to lush rainforests. Renowned for their resilience, they adapt to extreme climates, including drought, fire, and poor soils. These trees are vital to ecosystems, supporting wildlife and contributing to cultural heritage. Many feature vibrant flowers, aromatic leaves, or unique bark, … Read more

The Australian Flame Tree, scientifically known as Brachychiton acerifolius, is a member of the Malvaceae family, which includes hibiscus, cocoa, and other tropical plants. It belongs to the genus Brachychiton, comprising about 31 species, mostly native to Australia. Historically, it was classified under the Sterculiaceae family as Sterculia acerifolia by botanist George Bentham, but taxonomic … Read more

Trees with purple flowers are prized for their vibrant, eye-catching blooms that transform gardens into stunning displays. These deciduous or semi-evergreen trees, ranging from small to medium in size, produce clusters of purple, lavender, or magenta flowers, often in spring or summer. Their vivid colors make them ideal as focal points or accents in diverse … Read more

Desert Rose, scientifically known as Adenium obesum, belongs to the Apocynaceae family, which includes other ornamental plants like oleander and periwinkle. It is part of the genus Adenium, comprising about 5–12 species of succulent shrubs and trees native to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The species name obesum refers to its thickened, often swollen stems, … Read more

Australian Willow, scientifically known as Geijera parviflora, is a member of the Rutaceae family, which includes citrus plants and other aromatic species. It belongs to the genus Geijera, comprising about seven species of shrubs and trees native to Australia and New Caledonia. The species name parviflora derives from Latin, meaning “small-flowered,” referring to its inconspicuous … Read more

Palo Blanco, Mariosousa willardiana, belongs to the Fabaceae family (legume family) within the subfamily Mimosoideae. The genus Mariosousa, named after Mexican botanist Mario Sousa, includes about 13 species, split from the Acacia genus following the 2005 International Botanical Congress due to DNA evidence distinguishing non-Australian acacias. Previously known as Acacia willardiana or Mariosousa heterophylla, its … Read more