Wildflowers: Liatris Native to New England
Karen Meyers 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…
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.…
Book Review: Green Rush
In their book, Green Rush, authors Daniel J. Mallinson and A. Lee Hannah present a comprehensive analysis of the legalization of cannabis in the United States. The authors trace political,…
Wildflowers: Poppies Native to the Rocky Mountain Area
All of the poppies listed below are are native to the Rocky Mountain area and in the subfamily Papaveroideae of the family Papaveraceae; not included are plants that are not…
Wildflowers: Poppies Native to the Midwest
The common name, poppy, can refer to many different plants some of which are considered true poppies, while others resemble poppies but are not even in the same plant family.…
Plants for a Mary Garden: Wild Tulip (Tulipa sylvestris)
The link between Mary and the wild tulip comes from the appearance of the flowers and legend. The flower is thought to resemble hands folded in prayer, as shown in…
Book Review: The Seriously Good Veggie Student Cookbook
The British based book, The Seriously Good Veggie Student Cookbook, is an eclectic collection of vegetarian recipes that will probably be a surprise to the average American college student. Although…
Wildflowers: Poppies Native to the Pacific Coast
The common name, poppy, can refer to many different plants some of which are considered true poppies, while others resemble poppies but are not even in the same plant family.…
Wildflowers: Poppies Native to the Southwest
All of the poppies listed below are are native to the Southwest area and in the subfamily Papaveroideae of the family Papaveraceae; not included are plants that are not botanically…
Plants for a Mary Garden: Hollyhock Mallow (Malva alcea) The Virgin’s Bread
The link between the Virgin Mary and Malva alcea probably reflects a combination of its edible and medicinal qualities which suggested a symbolic association with Mary’s purity and role as…