Plants of Ancient Pompeii: Apricot (Prunus armeniaca)
Karen This deciduous small tree is a member of the rose family, Rosaceae, that also includes cherry, almond, and lady’s mantle. It’s origin is uncertain but it was extensively cultivated in…
Plant Profile: Japanese Anemone (Anemone tomentosa)
Earlier to flower and hardier than other Japanese anemones, this herbaceous perennial is native to open grassy slopes in northern China. Also known as windflower, it is a member of…
Book Review: DIY Hydroponic Gardens
Karen Meyers Tyler Baras’ book, DIY Hydroponic Gardens, provides information on choosing, building, planting and maintaining over a dozen hydroponic growing system so that plants can be grown anywhere. Written for beginners…
Plants That Attract Beneficial Insects: Marsh Marigold (Caltha palustris)
March marigold is a herbaceous perennial native to the Northern Hemisphere where it is found growing in marshes, stream edges, and other wet areas. It is a member of the…
Plant Profile: Mediterranean Sea Holly (Eryngium bourgatii)
Native to Morocco, Lebanon, Turkey, France, and Spain, this rosette-forming herbaceous perennial is a member of the parsley family, Apiaceae, that also includes dill, celery, and Queen Anne’s lace. It…
Plants of Ancient Pompeii: Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Native to maritime habitats of Europe and western temperate Asia, asparagus is a herbaceous perennial and member of the Asparagaceae plant family that also includes yucca, hosta, and spider plant.…
Plant Profile: Summer Savory (Satureja hortensis)
Summer savory is an annual and a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae, that also includes rosemary, thyme, and beebalm. It is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region.…
Book Review: The Little Flower Recipe Book
Florist, Jill Rizzo, explores the world of miniature arrangements in her book, The Little Flower Recipe Book. With a love of the natural garden look, she presents 149 examples of…
Poisonous Plants: Four-O’Clock (Mirabilis jalapa)
Native to the dry tropical regions of North, Central, and South America, this herbaceous perennial, also known as marvel of Peru and is a member of the plant family Nyctaginaceae…
Plant Profile: Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria aureae)
Native to Chile, this tender perennial is a member of the Alstroemeriaceae plant family and a popular cut flower of the floristry industry. It is the hardiest and most vigorous…