Also known as salt-marsh goldenrod, this succulent herbaceous perennial is native to coastal areas of eastern North America, parts of the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America where it grows on…
The Ikaria Way, by Diane Kochilas, is a collection of contemporary recipes inspired by the traditions of the Greek island, Ikaria, known for the longevity of its population. With the…
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…
Also known as golden oats, this perennial cool-season grass is native to the mountains of Spain and Portugal, and a member of the grass family, Poaceae, that also includes rice,…
The link between Galium verum and Mary arises out of early customs and legend. The dried stems and flowers of the plant were traditionally used to stuff mattresses especially for…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Karen 
Karen Meyers