AMERICAN GARDENER

Purple yam, commonly known as ube, is a tropical tuber celebrated for its vibrant violet color and sweet flavor. It is known by several names depending on the region and language. In many parts of Southeast Asia it is simply called purple yam, while in the Philippines the name ube is widely used and recognized … Read more

Plastic-eating mushrooms are a fascinating group of fungi that have attracted scientific attention because of their ability to help break down one of the world’s most stubborn pollution problems. Unlike ordinary organisms that struggle to digest synthetic materials, these fungi produce special enzymes capable of attacking the chemical bonds found in certain plastics. This ability … Read more

Certain wild fungi are known for containing natural chemical compounds that can strongly affect the human brain and perception. These substances interact with the nervous system, altering how a person thinks, feels, and senses the world around them. For centuries, different cultures have been aware of these effects and sometimes used such fungi in spiritual … Read more

Flowers that can be used for tea are plants whose petals, buds, or blossoms are safe to consume and have flavorful or medicinal properties. Flower teas are popular worldwide for their aroma, soothing effects, and health benefits. Many are naturally caffeine-free, making them ideal for relaxation and wellness routines. Chamomile is one of the most … Read more

Grass with purple flowers is a group of ornamental grasses and grass-like plants that produce striking purple blooms or inflorescences. These plants are valued in landscaping for their texture, color contrast, and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The purple flowers often appear on tall, graceful spikes that rise above the foliage, creating … Read more

Mushrooms that grow on trees are fungi that thrive on living or dead wood, feeding on nutrients in bark, trunks, or fallen branches. These fungi play an important ecological role by breaking down tough wood fibers, returning nutrients to the soil, and helping maintain healthy forest ecosystems. Some species are parasitic, harming the tree, while … Read more

Flowering onion plants are ornamental or edible varieties of onions that produce showy flower heads in addition to edible bulbs or green tops. These plants belong to the Allium family, which includes onions, garlic, chives, and leeks. Their flowers range from small and delicate to large, globe-shaped clusters, adding beauty and interest to gardens. Many … Read more

Onions that store well are varieties bred or naturally suited for long-term storage after harvest. These onions typically have thick, dry outer skins and a firm, dense bulb that resists rot, mold, and sprouting. They are ideal for keeping in cool, dry, well-ventilated conditions for several months, making them perfect for winter use or for … Read more

Onions that multiply are varieties known as multiplying or perennial onions, which naturally produce clusters of bulbs instead of a single main bulb. These onions grow small offsets—sometimes called bulblets or daughter bulbs—around the parent bulb, allowing the plant to reproduce vegetatively. Over time, a single plant can create a large cluster of onions, making … Read more

Onions that make you cry are typically pungent varieties high in sulfur compounds, which are released when the onion is cut. These compounds, especially syn-Propanethial-S-oxide, become airborne and irritate the eyes, causing the stinging sensation and tearing that many people associate with chopping onions. The stronger the onion’s sulfur content, the more intense the tears. … Read more