PlantBlog

Some plants have rightly earned their larger-than-life reputations. As one of the longest-used recreational drugs, murdering toxins, and beneficial medicines, deadly nightshade is certainly one of the most historically significant plants. Used to induce hallucinations, to murder, for beauty, and for ecstasy, deadly nightshade is a plant with abundant history.   The Greater Nightshade Family […]

Sunflowers make a spectacular addition to many growers’ gardens for at least one reason: they’re beautiful! Botanically, all of about 70 true sunflower species fall into the genus Helianthus. Its name is derived from Greek “helios” for sun and “anthos” for flower. The most commonly cultivated species is Helianthus annuus, and it makes many appearances […]

Penjing is an ancient Chinese art form of creating landscape scenes on a miniature scale. This art form is also known by the name penzai. The scenes feature living plants that artists and care-takers meticulously prune and cultivate to express emotion. Penjing pieces can be whimsical, surreal scenes. Artists will include miniature figurines, such as […]

One of the best things about being a gardener is being able to reap what you sow. Vegetable plants in particular are some of the most reliable crops to grow in the garden. But, in many places, winters are just too cold and they can succumb to the frigid weather. Even perennial vegetables, which can […]

Lavender is a highly popular plant thanks to its rich, calming aroma. The plant has been cultivated for hundreds of years and is used in a variety of ways, but it’s mainly known for its fragrant flowers and leaves. It’s a perfect plant to use in aromatic herb gardens, pollinator gardens, or even as a […]

Arborvitae trees are a favorite of residential and commercial landscapers across cold and temperate climates in North America. You’ve certainly seen arborvitae trees walking around your city or neighborhood, where they are planted as privacy hedges or landscaping accents. Over the last century, they have become integral parts of the urban and suburban American landscape. […]

Oak trees are beloved and well-recognized trees around the globe. With over 500 living species, interesting facts and relationships are as abundant as the squirrel-forgot acorns beneath the ground. Today we’ll be exploring different types of oak trees, detailing their botanical names, growing preferences, and other distinguishing tidbits.   Introduction   Oak trees are indigenous […]

With large palmate leaves giving off a tropical vibe combined with a cleverly braided trunk, the money tree is more than just a symbol of prosperity. It’s a beautiful (and quite popular) houseplant. Additionally, it is known to be one of the easiest indoor trees. Here is some important background on this amazing plant along […]

When one thinks of a tropical beach, they usually picture a palm tree hanging over clear blue water. Indeed, coconut palms are common sights on tropical beaches around the world. Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, coconut palms bear fruit abundantly, and coconut fruits are used in all sorts of products these days. Did you know […]

Bushes and shrubs are woody, perennial plants that can take a variety of shapes, colors, and forms. The difference between a shrub and a tree is rather ambiguous. In fact, some trees have “dwarf” varieties that look much more like a bush than a tree. In general, a bush or a shrub is a small, […]

Just like pictures, paintings, and art, indoor house plants add an interesting flavor to any room. Unlike paintings or pictures, though, plants add life to your home and can even purify your air. Identifying which plans will work best in your home can be difficult, though. Continue reading below and let’s take a look at […]

A redbud tree is a small, deciduous tree or shrub in the genus Cercis. Found in the pea family (Fabaceae) along with legumes and beans, redbuds have the flower and seedpod forms that are typical for the family.   Redbud species are native to temperate zones around the world, and their striking, year-round beauty has […]

Lantanas are flowering shrubs and members of the plant genus Lantana (pronounced lan-TAYN-uh). Known for having plentiful, showy flowers and long blooming season lantana plants will spruce up any garden with perennial blooms. Not only that, but they are extremely low maintenance – especially if you choose one of the cultivated varieties. If you are […]

Moths are much more interesting than you may think. They can be gorgeous, colorful, massive, and important pollinators. They can also be huge pests, harming agriculture and forestry. It would take many lifetimes to learn everything there is to know about moths, especially because there are 10 times as many moths species than butterfly species […]

When you want to show appreciation for someone, the gift of flowers always seems appropriate. And it’s true that any type of flower will have an impact. However, there are certain types of flowers that are associated with gratitude. If you need a reason to express thanks for something, consider some of these blooms for […]

Cedar trees are a beloved and well-known type of tree. And while there is often confusion between common and botanical names between the types, there is no debate on how beautiful and useful these trees are. Cedars have supported communities as we’ve evolved, traveled, and built cities. The health, vitality, and opportunities surrounding these conifer […]

Lemons have an extremely large number of uses. Their juice is used in drinks and desserts; their rind is used whole as a garnish; they can be distilled for their lemon oil. According to the National Agriculture Statistical Service, the United States farms roughly 54,000 acres of lemons – that’s almost 7% of the landmass […]

Plant nurseries are places where plants are propagated and grown to a certain age or size. Just like a nursery fosters and nurtures children, plant nurseries do the same for young plants! If you are a hobby gardener, starting a DIY nursery is a great way to take your passion to a new level. In […]

Peonies are a tried-and-true favorite of gardeners in temperate areas around the globe. They make bright, good-smelling, large flowers that hold up well in vases. What’s not to love? Peonies are so lovely that many people even choose them as wedding flowers. They are among the few kinds of flowers with their own societies, like […]

Garlic mustard is an herbaceous plant native to Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe. In North America, it’s a common weed that invades ecosystems and chokes out the native flora. Garlic mustard is also edible. In fact, it’s one of the oldest spices used in Europe. Traces of garlic mustard were found on pottery 6000 […]