Plant Profile: Cape Scabiosa (Scabiosa africana)
Karen A rare plant suitable only for West Coast gardens, this evergreen herbaceous perennial is native to the fynbos of South Africa and a member of the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae, that…
Book Review: Killer Plants
Karen Meyers Killer Plants by Louise and Richard Spilsbury offers a look at deadly plants and the way they kill their victims. Written for children 8 – 13 years old, in kindergarten…
Wildflowers: Liatris Native to the Southeast
Often known as gayfeathers or blazing stars, these herbaceous perennials are a member of the aster family, Asteraceae, that also includes daisy, zinnia, and lettuce. They are native to North…
Plant Profile: Carmel Daisy (Scabiosa prolifera)
Native to the woodlands and shrublands of the eastern Mediterranean area, this annual is a member of the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae, that also includes weigelia, Centranthus, and valerian. Plants grow…
Plants for a Mary Garden: Star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum umbellatum)
Several different legends connect Ornithogalum umbellatum to the Virgin Mary. The most well-known says that after a bright star guided the Magi to the manger where Mary tended to the…
Plant Profile: Common Daisy (Bellis perennis)
Also known as lawn daisy and English daisy, this herbaceous perennial is a member of the aster family, Asteraceae, that also includes chrysanthemum, dandelion, and lettuce. It is native to…
Book Review: Epic Salads
Epic Salads, by Jessica Prescott, presents a refreshing approach to salads making. Drawing from many culinary traditions, Prescott presents over 60 plant-based recipes that can fill many roles from snack…
Wildflowers: Liatris Native to New England
Often known as gayfeathers or blazing stars, these herbaceous perennials are a member of the aster family, Asteraceae, that also includes daisy, zinnia, and lettuce. They are native to North…
Plant Profile: Cream Scabiosa (Scabiosa ochroleuca)
Native to southern Europe and Asia Minor, this short-lived herbaceous perennial is a member of the honeysuckle family, Caprifoliaceae, that also includes weigelia, Centranthus, and valerian. Plants grow 2-3′ tall…
Plants for a Mary Garden: Carnation (Dianthus carophyllus) Mary’s Love of God
The link between Dianthus carophyllus and Mary is based on legend. One legend tells us that it bloomed on the night of Jesus’ birth as a sign of Mary’s joy.…