Not enough people remember—or even know—the power and importance of the mullein stalk. Often overlooked as just another tall roadside plant, mullein has quietly stood as one of nature’s most versatile and beneficial herbs for centuries. From traditional medicine to practical everyday uses, this humble plant deserves a return to the spotlight. A Plant Rooted … Read more
Anemones, also called windflowers, are part of the Anemone genus and are known for their delicate, vibrant flowers that grow on long stems from dense leaf clusters. These perennials thrive in moist soil and need full to partial sunlight in moderate climates. All parts of anemone plants contain protoanemonin, a toxic compound, making them somewhat … Read more
Iceland poppies (Papaver nudicaule) are flowering perennials that thrive in subarctic regions, but are often planted as annuals in warmer climates. The foliage is feathery and grows from fuzzy, leafless flower stems. Poppy flowers are brightly colored with four paper-thin, silky, and ruffled petals. The specific variety Iceland poppies can range in color from red to pink, orange, … Read more
The resurrection plant, also known as Rose of Jericho, is a special type of spike moss remarkable for surviving extended periods without water. When it dries out, its fronds form a tight, brown ball, which uncurls and turns green again when it encounters moisture. This adaptable houseplant grows well without soil and flourishes in bright, … Read more
Ming aralia is an eye-catching houseplant from India and Polynesia known for its lush, bright green foliage. Although it can be a bit challenging to grow, caring for it is rewarding, as it can reach over 6 feet tall indoors with the right attention. Ideal for partially sunny indoor spaces, it thrives when given year-round care … Read more
Licuala grandis, commonly known as the ruffled fan palm or Vanuatu fan palm, is a short, trunked palm tree with wide, pleated leaves with a vibrant green hue. Licuala grandis grows best in warm, humid conditions and requires bright sunlight and well-draining soil. It thrives outdoors in tropical climates but makes an attractive tall houseplant, too. … Read more
Gerbera daisy is a flowering plant from South Africa in the Aster family, best known for its large, brightly colored blooms. Today’s nursery and seed catalog varieties are hybrids, and they come in four main classes: single flower, semi-double flower, double flower, and spider flower. In warm regions, Gerbera daisies grow as tender perennials that … Read more
English daisy, also commonly known as the common daisy, is a perennial, but it is a biennial in the southern United States and grown as an annual in the northern United States, where plants are usually discarded after one season of bloom. It is known for its unique red, white, and pink rounded blooms with yellow … Read more
Key Points Begonias are a staple of the shade garden, and they provide long-lasting color and interest. This large genus of over 2,000 plants varies in form, with some grown primarily for their foliage (like rex and polka dot begonias), while others are grown for their stunning flower displays. Under the right conditions, begonias flower from pring to … Read more
Nutmeg is usually associated with the aroma that permeates the air during chilly weather. The native habitat of the nutmeg tree, though, is far from the typical North American autumn. It is a tropical evergreen native to the balmy Spice Islands in the South Pacific. With its dark green, glossy, aromatic leaves, and dense, conical crown, … Read more