AMERICAN GARDENER

Common houseplants can improve indoor air quality by taking in carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Indoor plants can improve air quality by removing trace amounts of toxic chemicals that are released by synthetic materials in the home. These chemicals often come from effluent in the bathroom, pets, paint, carpeting, furniture upholstery and other sources. Microorganisms … Read more

The Chaste Tree, scientifically known as Vitex agnus-castus, belongs to the Lamiaceae family, a group of aromatic plants that includes mint, lavender, and sage. The genus Vitex comprises about 250 species of trees and shrubs, primarily tropical, with V. agnus-castus being one of the most temperate-adapted. Its species name, “agnus-castus,” translates from Latin to “chaste … Read more

Waxflower, belonging to the genus Chamelaucium, is part of the Myrtaceae family, which includes other aromatic plants like eucalyptus and tea-trees (Leptospermum). The genus Chamelaucium comprises about 30 species, with Chamelaucium uncinatum (Geraldton wax) being the most prominent. First described by French botanist René Louiche Desfontaines in 1819, the genus name’s origin is debated, possibly … Read more

White Sage, scientifically known as Salvia apiana, belongs to the Lamiaceae family, a diverse group of aromatic herbs and shrubs that includes mint, lavender, and rosemary. The genus Salvia is one of the largest in the family, with over 900 species, ranging from culinary to ornamental plants. The species name “apiana,” derived from Latin, means … Read more

Flax lily, scientifically known as Dianella tasmanica, belongs to the Asphodelaceae family, within the subfamily Hemerocallidoideae, a group of monocots that includes other strap-leaved perennials like daylilies. The genus Dianella comprises about 40 species, mostly native to Australia, and is named after Diana, the Roman goddess, reflecting the plant’s graceful beauty. The species name “tasmanica” … Read more

The weeping acacia or Weeping Myall, scientifically known as Acacia pendula, is a species within the Fabaceae family, specifically in the subfamily Mimosoideae, which includes many wattles native to Australia. The genus Acacia encompasses over 1,000 species, predominantly shrubs and trees, with A. pendula distinguished for its graceful form. Its scientific name derives from Latin, … Read more

Chuparosa, scientifically known as Justicia californica, is a flowering shrub in the Acanthaceae family, which includes many tropical and subtropical plants with vibrant blooms. Previously classified under the genus Beloperone (as Beloperone californica), it has been reclassified into Justicia, a large genus of about 700 species. The name “californica” reflects its association with the southwestern … Read more

The Mediterranean Fan Palm, scientifically known as Chamaerops humilis, belongs to the Arecaceae family, the sole family of palms within the order Arecales. The genus Chamaerops is monotypic, meaning it contains only this species, distinguished for its adaptability and hardiness compared to other palms. Its scientific name derives from Greek, with “chamai” meaning “low” or … Read more

The term “Night Blooming Cereus” broadly refers to several cacti species known for their large, fragrant, nocturnal flowers that bloom briefly at night. These plants, often from different genera within the Cactaceae family, are celebrated for their spectacular blooms and are popular in cultivation.These plants, often sprawling or climbing, thrive in arid or tropical climates, … Read more

Cereus plants, iconic cacti of the Cactaceae family, are known for their tall, columnar stems that dominate arid landscapes. These drought-tolerant giants store water in their ribbed flesh, thriving where others falter. Their towering presence makes them striking in gardens, offering a bold, low-maintenance focal point. Ecologically, they support desert life, attracting nocturnal pollinators with … Read more