AMERICAN GARDENER

Sumac shrubs, primarily from the genus *Rhus*, are versatile, often deciduous plants known for their striking fall foliage, unique fruit clusters, and adaptability to a variety of landscapes. These shrubs can range in size from compact ground covers to towering small trees. Sumacs are popular for their compound leaves, which in autumn turn into a … Read more

Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) is a deciduous shrub known for its botanical characteristics that make it both ornamental and productive. It typically grows between 6 to 12 feet tall, with an upright, multi-stemmed habit that forms a dense thicket over time. The leaves are elliptical, dark glossy green during the growing season, turning into brilliant … Read more

Shrubs that grow well in shaded areas are essential for gardeners looking to maximize the use of their less sunny landscapes. These plants are adapted to thrive with less direct sunlight, often showing off vibrant foliage or flowers despite the dim conditions. They provide structure, color, and sometimes fragrance, making shaded gardens just as dynamic … Read more

Blue Chalksticks (Curio repens) is a succulent that has garnered attention for its unique aesthetic and ease of care. Botanically, this plant is characterized by its powdery blue, cylindrical leaves that grow in a dense, mat-like formation. These leaves, which can reach up to 2 inches in length, are borne on prostrate stems that root … Read more

Flowers that release their fragrances at night add a magical layer to any garden, transforming the evening into a sensory delight. These plants have evolved to emit their scents when the sun goes down, specifically to attract nocturnal pollinators like moths, bats, and certain types of beetles. The aroma of these flowers can range from … Read more

Flowers that bloom all summer are a gardener’s delight, providing non-stop color and beauty from early summer through to the first frost. These plants are characterized by their ability to produce flowers continuously, often with the help of regular deadheading to encourage new blooms. Their long blooming period makes them invaluable for maintaining a garden’s … Read more

Cardinals are drawn to gardens with flowers that provide both visual appeal and sustenance. Bright, especially red, blooms can catch the attention of these colorful birds, as they are naturally attracted to colors that match their own vivid red feathers. The structure of flowers plays a crucial role in attracting cardinals; those that bear seeds … Read more

Ladybugs are beneficial insects that naturally control pest populations in gardens by feeding on aphids and other small insects. To attract these helpful beetles, gardens should include a variety of flowers that bloom at different times of the year, providing a continuous source of nectar and pollen. This ensures ladybugs have food throughout their lifecycle, … Read more

Lithops, commonly referred to as living stones or pebble plants, are a genus of small, succulent plants native to the arid regions of Southern Africa. They are renowned for their unique adaptation where they mimic the appearance of rocks or pebbles in their environment, providing an excellent camouflage against herbivores. Each plant consists of a … Read more

Portulaca flowers, commonly known as moss roses or purslanes, are vibrant, sun-loving plants belonging to the Portulacaceae family. Native to warm, arid regions, they are prized for their bright, cup-shaped flowers that come in an array of colors like red, yellow, pink, orange, and white. These blooms open in direct sunlight and close in the … Read more