Affectionately known as the elephant-foot plant, evergreen ponytail palm has a fountain of backward curving, strap-like foliage. The trunk has a large base called a caudex that stores water. This showy specimen is an elegant, easy-care houseplant. Learn how to grow ponytail palm as a houseplant in this guide. Read more.
Prayer plants are cherished for their unusual habit of lifting their leaves up at night and spectacular foliage patterns. From geometric designs to artistic marbling, these houseplants showcase incredible variety in colors and textures. Discover 21 of the most stunning prayer plants in this guide. Read more now.
Grow cauliflower for a healthy garden-to-table experience. Choose white snowballs, Italian greens and purples, and orange “cheddars.” Packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, raw and cooked dishes showcase its mild, sweet-to-nutty flavor. Find the best varieties and where to buy them, here on Gardener’s Path.
Do you want to spice up your Halloween display this year? Why not grow your own? Try decorating your home and yard with a collection of mysterious and scary plants just spooky enough to make your skin crawl. Read on to learn about 13 of our favorite creepy and bizarre plants to make Halloween extra chilling. Read more.
Annuals provide some of the most vibrant fall color in gardens when perennials are fading and trees haven’t yet turned. Popular choices include chrysanthemums, bright pansies, and celosia. Ornamental kale and Swiss charge add foliage interest. Learn about 15 of the best annuals for vivid fall color in this guide.
Dracaena grown outdoors need protection when temperatures drop below their cold tolerance threshold. They can suffer frost damage or die in freezing conditions without winter preparation. Methods include mulching, wrapping plants with frost cloth, and digging up smaller specimens. Learn more about dracaena winter care.
Witches’-broom is a dense, tangled cluster of twigs that forms on trees and shrubs, often caused by stress, disease, insects, or mites. It may look concerning, but is it really a problem? Learn what witches’-brooms are, why they form, whether they’re harmful, and what to do if you spot one on your tree in this guide.
Nothing shows that spring is on the way like the nodding heads of hellebore flowers in the snow. If you eagerly anticipate these hardy late-winter perennials, prepare to fall in love. Read on to discover 15 of the best double hellebore varieties with robust blossoms in irresistible colors. See our favorites now.
Nothing brightens the spirit better than a field of early-spring crocuses. Did you know that there are numerous varieties to choose from? Some are deer resistant, others are extra hardy, and with their colorful hues, all are gorgeous. Learn about 13 of the best crocus varieties for your landscape in this guide. Read more.
Perennial hellebores add color to the late-winter garden, when many plants are still dormant. There are numerous varieties and each has unique characteristics. Some are more common in the home garden, while others are quite rare. Learn more about the classification of the Helleborus genus in this guide. Read more now.
Do you want to plant some new beet varieties in your garden? Delicious and nutritious, there are many different cultivars available in different shapes and colors from the popular ruby-red roots to golden, striped, and white types. Check out our roundup of 27 top picks and choose your favorite. Read more now.
Looking for reliable, bold color for the late season garden? Delightful dahlias are a perfect fit. From dwarf cultivars to jumbo dinner plates, and in almost every imaginable color, these dazzling tubers flower consistently from summer until they’re felled by frost. Learn how to plant and grow dahlias in this guide.
Broccoli is a cool-season crop grown for its crisp stems and tightly packed florets. With many cultivars available, you can choose from compact heading types, long-season hybrids, or sprouting varieties that produce an abundance of side shoots. Learn about 19 of the best broccoli varieties (plus 3 bonus options) now.
The aster is a daisy-like perennial that adds height and texture to gardens from late summer to fall. You may be aware that these flowers are available in shades of blue, pink, and purple, but did you know that you can also find white varieties? Learn about 11 of the best white asters for your garden in this guide.
Broccoli is a cool weather crop that’s nutritious and delicious. If you want to harvest tender, homegrown broccoli for your soups, quiches, and sides, but don’t have room in your garden, why not try growing it in containers? Planting in pots saves space in your garden and can extend the growing season. Read more now.
The easy-care, water-wise bunny ears or polka-dot cactus (Opuntia microdasys), has pairs of tapered green paddles dotted with glochid spines that resemble spotted rabbit ears. In Zone 9 to 12 gardens, it grows in dense clumps. Elsewhere, it’s a robust houseplant. Learn how to grow bunny ears cactus in this guide.
If you want to add a touch of pink to your landscape, vigorous asters bring bold swaths of color, texture, and vertical interest to late summer and fall gardens. Discover 11 outstanding varieties, from ballerina pink to sizzling magenta, for beds, borders, containers, and carefree meadows in this guide. Read more now.
Southernwood aka lad’s love (Artemisia abrotanum) is a low-fuss perennial prized for its delicate, lacy foliage with a zesty perfume of citrus and camphor. The attractive, upright mounds are ideal for beds, borders, containers, or low water gardens. Learn how to grow and care for southernwood in this guide. Read more.
Lettuce is an easy to grow, nutritious addition to your vegetable patch. There are lots of cultivars available in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and textures. From the classic crunch of the crisphead to the delicate, tender oak leaf, there’s sure to be one to suit you. Discover 37 of our favorite lettuce varieties.
Tasty and fragrant, basil is a delicious ingredient when eaten fresh or added to recipes. Its lush growth and pretty flowers have great ornamental appeal. Did you know that there are a number of different basil cultivars available? Learn about 23 of our favorite basil varieties to add to your herb garden. Read more now.
Need a quick fix for barren ground? Plant yarrow. This low-maintenance, sun-worshiping perennial thrives in poor soil and rewards with vivid color. Choose low-profile or statuesque cultivars in colors like salmon pink, burgundy, neon yellow, and rusty orange from our list of 13 of favorites in this guide. Read more now.
Whether you already love kohlrabi or it’s entirely new to you, it’s the perfect time to start making plans to grow some in your garden. Which cultivar should you choose? We’ve rounded up our favorites to make your selection a little easier, with top picks that are perfect for a variety of tastes and garden sizes.
Black spots on yucca leaves aren’t random blemishes, they can indicate problems that can threaten the plant’s health. These may be the result of fungal or bacterial disease, pest infestations, excess moisture, or environmental damage. Learn about 5 causes of black spots on yucca leaves in this guide. Read more now.
European aka Mediterranean fan palm (Chamaerops humilis) is a compact, cold hardy palm that adds bold texture to gardens and patios. With fan-shaped fronds, colorful fruit, and a manageable size, it works equally well in the ground or in containers. Learn how to grow European fan palm in this guide. Read more now.
Kale is a leafy vegetable in the brassica family that’s related to the cabbage. It thrives in the coolest temperatures of the growing season. Read on for 13 of our favorite types. Choose cultivars with exceptional heat or cold tolerance to suit your needs, and grow the most flavorful and tender kale you’ve ever eaten.
Coral bead (Nertera granadensis) is an evergreen perennial that grows outdoors in Zones 9 to 11 and as an annual or houseplant elsewhere. It requires a moderate level of care and displays a profusion of bold red-orange ornamental berries. Learn how to care for this low-profile, semitropical species in this guide.
‘California Sunset’ is a striking graptosedum succulent with fleshy rosettes that blend shades of pink, peach, and soft green, with colors that intensify in bright light. Compact and easy to care for, it adds vibrant warmth to containers, rock gardens, or sunny borders. Learn how to grow ‘California Sunset’ in this guide.
Dahlias are bright, beautiful flowers that are much loved in the late season garden. And with such a marvelous selection of colors, forms, and sizes to choose from, deciding which type is best for your garden can be tough. Learn about the different types of dahlias and how they are classified in this guide. Read more now.
All types of Sempervivum are easy-care, drought- and deer-resistant succulents suited to growing in containers or as ground cover. But which is best for you? Simplify the selection with our roundup of 11 of our favorite hens and chicks in various colors including lilac, red, and black, and one with a cobweb texture.
Blue native wildflowers bring vibrant color to gardens while supporting pollinators and enhancing biodiversity. These hardy plants are adapted to local climates, making them easier to grow and maintain than many non-natives. Discover 15 of the best native blue wildflowers in this guide. Read more now.
There are dozens of beautiful kalanchoe in cultivation, some prized for bold, colorful flowers, others for striking foliage, and a few for both. From the well-known florist’s kalanchoe to the lesser-seen lavender scallops, there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for you. Discover 35 of the best varieties in this guide.
Red to the core and just right for raised beds, ‘Chantenay’ carrots grow about five to six inches long. Their compact, tapered shape performs especially well in heavier or shallow soils where long-rooted varieties can be challenging. Learn how to plant and grow your own ‘Chantenay’ carrots in this guide. Read more now.
If you’re fascinated by Romanesco broccoli, you might be surprised to find that it’s totally doable to grow your own at home. In addition to its mathematically precise yet artistic look, this brassica has a nutty flavor that’s even better when homegrown. Learn how to plant and grow Romanesco in this guide. Read more now.
Redwood trees are towering conifers in the Sequoioideae subfamily, valued for their immense height, soft foliage, and rugged bark. From the deciduous dawn redwood to the massive coastal and giant species, redwoods make a striking addition to the landscape. Learn how to grow and care for redwoods in this guide. Read more.
If you want to grow tall, dazzling clusters of color why not plant agapanthus in your flower beds? These beauties are available in a diverse array of shades in blue, purple, and white. Some boast trumpet-shaped upright blossoms while others resemble pendulous bluebells. Discover 29 of the best agapanthus varieties now.
Graptosedum succulents are vibrant, low-maintenance plants ideal for containers or garden beds. Whether you’re growing ‘California Sunset,’ ‘Darley Sunshine,’ or another type, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know. Learn more about how to grow graptosedum in your home or garden in this guide. Read more now.
Add some funky fresh flora to your indoor decor with Tillandsia, or air plants. They need indirect sunlight and no soil. Arrange and rearrange them as often as desired using creative supports such as crystals, driftwood, metal stands, and terrarium globes. Read on and discover 17 of our favorite Tillandsia species now.
Ferns have a diverse range of forms, from delicate ground covers to tall, tree-like specimens. Some thrive as houseplants while others are ideal for shady spots outdoors. Their textures and colors add depth and contrast to plantings, and many are easy to care for. Discover 35 fascinating fern varieties in this guide.
Shrubs are plants that work hard to fill mid-height positions in the landscape. However, when they are not blooming or sporting autumn hues, they often fade into the background. Not so with variegated types. Read on to discover 23 of the best variegated shrubs that make a bold statement throughout the growing season.
Bright red or striped amaryllis are ideal for holiday decor and giving as gifts. But did you know there are lots of other great types of amaryllis, too? From double-blossoms, to extra large blooms, to those that resemble orchids. Discover 17 of the best amaryllis varieties and choose your favorites. Read more now.
Cotoneaster is a multi-season plant loved for its vivid fall colors, bright red winter berries, and wonderful versatility in the landscape. From ground covers to hedges to slope stabilizers and even bonsai, there’s a species suitable for most locations. Learn about 21 of the best cotoneaster varieties in this guide.
If you love lilacs you may not know that there are a number of different types, in shades of pink, purple, and white. Some boast delicate blossoms while others dazzle with double petaled blooms. There are majestic tree types and compact shrubs suitable for container growing. Discover 23 of the best lilac varieties now.
A bright orange heirloom, the ‘Danvers’ carrot is great for gardeners with heavy soil. Plant it in the spring and again in fall for an easy-pull storage crop. You can’t beat that homegrown carrot taste, and ‘Danvers’ produces high yields – even in areas with clay soil and shorter growing seasons. Read more now.
Intrinsic cultural and habitat value shape the history of the California toyon plant. Small, white, rose-like flowers in summer lead to vibrant red berries in winter, providing abundant nectar and forage for pollinators and birds. Fire resistant and drought tolerant, this plant is a chaparral and oak woodland staple.
Pachyverias are hybrids that offer succulent collectors diverse leaf shapes, colors, and growth habits. From chunky forms with striking rosettes to trailing varieties, and those with fingerlike foliage, each variety brings something special to any collection. Discover 11 of the best pachyveria varieties in this guide.
When you sow cold-hardy culinary and medicinal herbs, you don’t have to plant them every year. From bergamot to wintergreen, there are sweet and savory perennial and biennial species and cultivars for use in a variety of dishes. Learn about 23 of our cold-hardy favorites to grow at home. Read more now.
Native wildflowers offer a low-maintenance and waterwise way to bring beauty into your garden or yard. Some of these plants are widespread and very adaptable, making them excellent landscaping options for many gardeners. Keep reading to discover a selection of 15 of the best native wildflowers for the US and Canada.
Burning bushes are deciduous shrubs that light up autumn landscapes with their scarlet foliage. However, in some states, non-native species have been declared invasive. Read on to learn how to grow burning bushes, and get a recommendation for a beautiful native variety to cultivate where non-native species are banned.
Conserving water is more important now than ever before. Fortunately, cooperating with nature by installing xerophytic plants, which require less water, can create a gorgeous landscape or garden. In fact, we’ve cultivated a list of 27 of the best and most attractive options – which ones will you choose in your region?
As summer gives way to autumn, the leaves of deciduous trees and shrubs provide a fabulous, colorful display of fall foliage. If your favorite color is orange, you’re in luck! In this guide, we take a look at 13 of the best landscape trees and shrubs that produce outstanding orange foliage in fall. Read more now.
There are hundreds of fabulous fuchsia varieties out there, from trailing to upright kinds and simple to full and frilly double flowers in multiple colors. The hardest part is choosing just one. This guide has 17 of the best options, from popular types to lesser-known varieties that can handle cold and resist disease.
Dahlias are a summer delight, their tall stems supporting a rainbow of flowers, from the symmetrical perfection of the pom-poms to the double blooms of the spiky cactus type. However, they need some support to look their best. We’ll go over the best ways to stake your dahlias in this guide. Read more now.
Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) is a striking, fast-growing shrub or small tree with silvery foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and sweet, olive-like fruit. Though beautiful and drought-tolerant, it’s considered invasive in many regions as it spreads aggressively. Learn how to grow Russian olive in this guide.
Hollow joe-pye weed is a native perennial with pinkish-mauve flower clusters atop distinctive hollow stems that grow up to seven feet tall. This impressive plant blooms from midsummer through fall, attracting butterflies and beneficial pollinators. Learn how to grow Eutrochium fistulosum in this guide. Read more now.
If the leaves of your persimmon trees (Diospyros spp.) are starting to curl, this can be a symptom of a variety of common environmental stressors including issues with moisture, temperature extremes, or pest infestations. Learn about seven common reasons for persimmon leaf curl and how to deal with them in this guide.
Extend your spring garden display with single late cottage tulips, with their tall stems and elegant, cup-shaped blooms. These May-flowering varieties bloom later than other types of tulips, adding height and lasting color to any planting scheme. Learn how to grow single late cottage tulips in this guide. Read more now.
Not all cacti need pruning, but there are times when it’s essential to remove damaged tissue, manage size, or take cuttings for propagation. Learn more about the tools you’ll need, when to prune based on the type of growth, and how to make clean cuts without harming your cactus in this guide. Read more now.
Tall, dramatic, and perfectly suited to hot, dry climates, California fan palm (Washingtonia filifera) is the only palm native to the western US. It’s fire-resistant, wildlife-friendly, and surprisingly easy to grow with the right conditions. Learn how to grow California fan palm in this guide. Read more now.
Jelly bean plants are a type of sedum featuring plump, glossy leaves that blush with shades of red, orange, and bronze in full sun. They thrive in bright light and lean soil, making them perfect for containers, rock gardens, and sunny windowsills. Learn how to grow these charming succulents in this guide. Read more now.
Japanese skimmia is a compact shrub that thrives in partial shade, offering year-round interest with evergreen foliage, fragrant white spring flowers, and vibrant red berries. Ideal for borders, containers, or woodland gardens, it adds bold texture and color to the landscape. Learn how to grow skimmia in this guide.
Cyclamen plants are showy perennials that brighten our homes and gardens with their jazzy, upswept pink-toned or white flowers and handsome, variegated foliage. Many species are cold- and frost-tolerant and spread readily in shady spots. Learn more about 15 different types of cyclamen in this guide. Read more now.
The blue, white, or yellow spires of false indigo open in late spring, bridging the gap between peonies, poppies, and midsummer’s colorful annuals. Slow-growing and deep rooted, this gorgeous North American native is drought-tolerant and easy to care for. Learn to grow these tenacious flowers in this guide. Read more now.
‘Angelina’ sedum is a low-growing, mat-forming succulent with needle-like foliage that ranges from bright lime green in spring to coppery red and orange in fall. It produces small yellow flowers in summer and thrives in lean, well-draining soil with minimal water. Learn how to grow this easy-care stonecrop in this guide.
Bacopa monnieri, also known as water hyssop or brahmi, is a moisture-loving herb that thrives in gardens, ponds, and even aquariums. With small, succulent leaves and delicate flowers, it’s known for its use in supplements to support memory and reduce anxiety. Learn how to grow and care for bacopa in this guide. Read more.
Cactus sunburn can cause permanent scarring, tissue damage, and rot if left untreated. It can happen when plants are moved too quickly into intense light or during unexpected heatwaves. Learn how to prevent cactus sunburn, recognize the early signs, and the right steps to help your plant recover in this guide. Read more.
Add bold vertical color to your beds with kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate aka prince’s feather. This fast-growing, low-maintenance annual thrives in rich soil and full sun, sending up tall stems topped with pendulous plumes of vibrant pink flowers. Learn how to grow Persicaria orientalis in this guide. Read more now.
Golden garlic (lily leek) is a stunning ornamental bulb with vibrant yellow, star-shaped blooms that rise above clumps of blue-green foliage. This low-maintenance perennial thrives in sunny spots and naturalizes beautifully in borders, rock gardens, and woodland edges. Learn how to plant and grow Allium moly in this guide.
Growing potatoes organically? Companion planting helps with natural pest control and may improve your harvest. Growing your root crops alongside carefully chosen vegetables, herbs, and flowers creates a thriving garden ecosystem without chemicals. Learn about 31 of the best companion plants for potatoes in this guide.
Dividing sedum helps manage overgrown clumps, refresh tired plants, and create free new starts for the garden. Whether you’re working with upright or creeping types, this simple task encourages healthier growth and better structure with minimal effort. Learn when and how to divide stonecrop in this guide. Read more now.
Whether they’re outgrowing their space, clashing with your landscape, or posing a hazard with their sharp, rigid leaves, yucca plants can sometimes require removal. But these persistent succulents can be difficult to get rid of unless you do the job properly. Learn how to remove yucca plants in this guide. Read more now.
Goldmoss sedum (Sedum acre) is a hardy, mat-forming succulent with bright yellow, star-shaped flowers and evergreen, light green foliage. It thrives in full sun and poor, well-draining soil in Zones 3 to 9, making it ideal for rock gardens or as a ground cover. Learn how to grow goldmoss sedum in this guide. Read more.
Sedum is easy to grow and doesn’t need much maintenance, but occasional pruning can improve its form, reduce flopping, and control spreading growth. Different types benefit from different approaches, whether you’re working with creeping ground covers or upright varieties. Learn when and how to prune sedum in this guide.
Sweet almond bush is suited to cultivation in Zones 8 to 11 and prefers full sun and fertile, well-draining soil. The terminal ends of the slender arching branches display spiky clusters of fragrant white blossoms from summer to fall. Learn how to grow these ornamental shrubs in your outdoor living space in this guide.
The flower-of-an-hour plant produces delicate blooms that last just a few hours, yet it offers an extended flowering season from summer through fall. This unusual hibiscus is easy to grow but has a tendency to spread, making proper care essential. Learn how to plant and grow Hibiscus trionum in this guide. Read more now.
Italian jasmine is an easy-care plant with long, arching branches that burst with bright yellow flowers from late spring through fall. It tolerates drought, heat, and a range of soil conditions, and can be trained as a shrub or vine to suit your space. Learn how to grow and care for Italian jasmine in this guide.
Dyer’s woad (Isatis tinctoria) has been an invaluable plant throughout history, once prized for both its medicinal uses and its ability to produce a striking blue dye. Today, it’s enjoying a modern revival, especially among natural ink and dye makers. Learn how to grow this fascinating plant in this guide. Read more now.
Looking for a reliable, low-maintenance flower that delivers nonstop color? Mexican zinnias are compact, vibrant, and perfect for borders, containers, and cutting gardens. Less common than their taller cousins, they’re just as eye-catching and incredibly easy to grow. Learn how to grow Zinnia haageana in this guide.
Don’t let its delicate beauty fool you, lily of the valley is highly toxic to both people and pets. This innocent-looking perennial contains glycosides and saponins that can cause heart problems, digestive issues, and even death if ingested. Learn more about lily of the valley toxicity in this guide. Read more now.
Most of us would rather avoid weeding our gardens. One method for deterring unwanted plants is to grow dense annual or perennial flowers that crowd them out. Plus, you can enjoy a stunning floral display in return! Discover 21 beautiful options, from vibrant dianthus to versatile yarrow, in this guide. Read more now.
Eucalyptus trees and shrubs feature fragrant foliage, striking bark, and sculptural form, adding bold texture to the landscape. Most species prefer mild, frost-free climates, though there are some that can tolerate conditions as far north as Zone 6. Learn how to grow and care for eucalyptus in this guide. Read more.
Cacti are appreciated for their easy-care nature, excellent drought tolerance, and unique appearance. And if they have problems such as mushy pads or stems, it’s usually down to a few common issues. To keep your plants strong and healthy, learn why your cactus is going soft and what to do in this guide. Read more now.
Bird of paradise is loved for its bold foliage and striking, bird-like blooms. But when those flowers never appear, the impact falls flat. From low light and drought stress to poor soil and cramped roots, we explore seven common reasons these plants fail to bloom – and how to fix them – in this guide. Read more now.
Homegrown cucumbers are a tasty treat for salads, slicing, and pickling, featuring a mildly sweet flavor and juicy, satisfying crunch. Easily cultivated, the compact varieties make attractive and productive potted plants as well. Learn how to plant and grow cucumbers in pots and containers in this guide. Read more now.
Zucchini is a prolific warm-season crop with large, leafy foliage that’s key to fruit development. But when those vibrant leaves turn yellow, it can signal issues ranging from pest infestation to poor drainage. Learn how to diagnose and resolve seven common causes of yellowing leaves on zucchini in this guide. Read more.
Jostaberry is a thornless, upright shrub that’s easy to grow and ideal for cooler climates. It produces deep red to black berries high in vitamin C and bioflavonoids with a mild black currant flavor and excellent for eating fresh or cooked. Learn how to grow low-maintenance jostaberry shrubs in this guide. Read more now.
Camellia sinensis is an evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves and white flowers that bloom in spring. Best known for being the plant grown commercially for producing tea, it thrives in mild climates and can grow as a compact hedge or small tree. Learn how to grow and care for tea plants in this guide. Read more now.
Agrimony (Agrimonia spp.) is a hardy, herbaceous perennial herb with tall spires of yellow flowers that thrives in full sun and poor soil. It’s a favorite among pollinators and also valued for its use in natural dyeing and herbal remedies. Learn how to grow agrimony in your home herb garden in this guide. Read more now.
Sweet myrtle (Myrtus communis) offers fragrant foliage, airy white blooms, and edible berries, flowers, and leaves. It’s drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and perfect for borders, containers, or hedges where its year-round appeal can be appreciated. Learn how to grow and care for sweet myrtle in this guide. Read more.
The silvery-blue hue of a blue spruce is what makes it stand out in the landscape, but if your tree is turning green, there may be an underlying issue. Learn about seven of the most common reasons for color loss, including pesticide use, poor light exposure, air pollution, and nutrient deficiencies in this guide.
The Mickey Mouse plant is a South African native for Zones 9 to 11. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and average soil. The shiny black berries and bold red petal-like sepals resemble the famous cartoon character’s outfit. Learn how to grow this semi-evergreen ornamental shrub in this guide. Read more now.
Are you unsure whether you should mulch your tomatoes? There are several materials that make excellent mulch for these summer vegetables. It’s beneficial for a variety of reasons, from enriching the soil to regulating temperature. Learn about seven of the best types of mulch for tomatoes in this guide. Read more now.
Texas sage (Leucophyllum) is a tough evergreen shrub with silvery-green foliage and purple flowers that bloom in response to barometric changes. Native to the arid southwest, this species thrives in full sun and sandy, well-draining soil, and is ideal for xeriscaping. Learn how to grow Texas sage in this guide. Read more.
Looking for a stunning conifer that stands out from the crowd? Colorado blue spruce aka Picea pungens might be just what your garden needs. With vivid blue-gray needles, it brings unique color and structure to any landscape. Learn how to grow and care for blue spruce in this comprehensive guide. Read more now.
Native to eastern North America, hardy summersweet is a wonderful choice for a wildlife or rain garden. Producing thousands of tiny, sweetly fragrant white flowers in late summer, this low-maintenance beauty is tolerant of a variety of soils and garden conditions. Learn how to grow pepperbush in this guide. Read more now.
Coleus is a shade-loving perennial with vivid, eye-catching, variegated foliage. It’s hardy in Zones 10 and 11 and can be cultivated as an annual or houseplant elsewhere. In late summer, bluish-lavender flower spikes rise from the mounds of colorful leaves. Learn what to do when coleus blooms in this guide. Read more.
The crepe-like, sky-blue flowers of the Himalayan blue poppy are a focal point in the early summer garden. These herbaceous ornamentals prefer a shady setting in Zones 5 to 7 with well-draining, organically-rich soil. Learn how to cultivate Meconopsis species in your outdoor living space in this guide. Read more now.
Carolina allspice is a native flowering shrub for Zones 4 to 9 that prefers full sun and fertile loam but tolerates partial shade and clay. This easy-care shrub is water-wise once established and resistant to pests and pathogens. Learn how to grow and care for sweetshrub in your outdoor living space in this guide.
Quaking aspen trees populate the slopes of mountains, fill sunlit forests with their trembling leaves, and like to pop up in forgotten fields. These North American natives are hardy, versatile, and somewhat forgiving. Learn how to grow and care for quaking aspen in your landscape in this guide. Read more now.
Garlic is an excellent companion plant for tomatoes as it contains sulfur compounds that produce odors that repel many pests. Planting these two species together requires a little planning but delivers excellent results. Learn more about companion planting tomatoes with garlic in this guide. Read more now.
Anise is a popular annual herb, the ripe seeds used for flavoring sweet and savory dishes as well as a variety of spirits with a sweet flavor of licorice. Easy to grow in vegetable gardens, the plants can also be cultivated in planters, if the vessels are big enough. Learn how to grow anise in containers in this guide.