AMERICAN GARDENER

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

Artemisia tridentata, commonly known as Sagebrush or Big Sagebrush, is a species within the Artemisia genus of the Asteraceae family, which is also known as the aster, daisy, or sunflower family. This species is characterized by its aromatic, silvery-gray foliage and small, inconspicuous flowers that are wind-pollinated. The genus name “Artemisia” is named after Artemis, … Read more

Solidago gigantea, commonly known as Giant Goldenrod or Late Goldenrod, is a member of the Solidago genus within the Asteraceae family, often referred to as the aster, daisy, or sunflower family. This species is distinguished by its tall stature and large, arching plumes of bright yellow flowers. The genus name “Solidago” derives from the Latin … Read more

Gelsemium sempervirens, commonly known as Yellow Jessamine or Carolina Jessamine, is part of the Gelsemium genus within the Gelsemiaceae family. This species is notable for its vibrant, funnel-shaped, yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. Previously, it was classified under the Loganiaceae family, but recent taxonomic studies have placed it in its own family, reflecting its … Read more

Calochortus nuttallii, commonly known as the Sego Lily, is a member of the Calochortus genus in the Liliaceae family, which is also referred to as the lily family. This species is notable for its tulip-shaped flowers, which feature three large petals that are typically white with a yellow base and often have a purplish or … Read more

Epigaea repens, commonly known as the Mayflower or Trailing Arbutus, belongs to the Epigaea genus within the Ericaceae family, which is also known as the heath or heather family. This species is characterized by its low-growing, evergreen habit, with small, fragrant, pink or white flowers that bloom in early spring. The genus name “Epigaea” comes … Read more

Anemone patens, commonly known as the Pasque Flower, is part of the Anemone genus within the Ranunculaceae family, which is often referred to as the buttercup family. This species is characterized by its bell-shaped, purplish-blue to lavender flowers that bloom early in spring, sometimes even through late snow. The name “Anemone” comes from the Greek … Read more

Castilleja species, commonly known as Indian Paintbrush, belong to the Orobanchaceae family, which was formerly part of the Scrophulariaceae family before taxonomic reclassification. This genus is known for its vibrant, often red or orange bracts that surround less conspicuous flowers, giving the plant its distinctive “paintbrush” appearance. The name Castilleja honors Spanish botanist Domingo Castillejo. … Read more