Plant Identification

Region: Found in the eastern half of the U.S., as well as California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas Have you ever noticed a peculiar looking insect flying or crawling around your garden that has a distinct triangle shape and folded wings on its back? If so you’ve likely spotted a leaf-footed bug, a … Read more

Discover 50+ star-shaped flowers with symmetrical blooms that look like stars. However, each has a unique touch of beauty and requires diverse care. Were you impressed by the beautiful magnolia or Queen’s Cup flowers? Do you know what they have in common? Let’s explore this group of flowers together, examining what sets them apart and … Read more

“Is that a real flower?” I asked, studying the display of succulents in my friend’s garden window. “Of course,” she replied (sounding a little miffed). “You know I don’t go in for fake flowers. Or fake anything, for that matter.” “But it’s almost too pretty to be real,” I insisted. “What is it?” The geometric … Read more

The Mysterious Pineapple-Looking Fruit Growing on Trees in Hawaii Hawaii is renowned for its beautiful beaches, surfing, and of course – pineapples. However, keen-eyed travelers may notice a mysterious pineapple-looking fruit growing on trees around the islands. While it resembles a pineapple, this peculiar fruit is actually native pandanus, sometimes referred to as the “tourist … Read more

Have you ever looked along a highway and observed all the trees covered in vegetation from trunk to branches? It was most likely English ivy (Hedera helix), the final of our 12 Dirty Dozen plants. H. helix certainly isn’t last in terms of its invasiveness in our region and at the Garden. We hope you … Read more

A garden filled with beautiful, thriving plants is a joy to behold. But with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which plants to grow. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the best plants that grow in gardens, focusing on ones that are low-maintenance, produce edible bounty, and … Read more

Attracting bees, catnip will bloom all summer, boasting fragrant lavender-blue flowers and dense foliage on two inch tall plants. This loosely branching, low perennial offers rough, heart shaped leaves and thick stems covered in fuzzy hairs. Once catnip flowers bloom, the plant can tend to look a little scraggly. Cutting back the plant and harvesting … Read more

Peppers starting with “be” include some of the most popular varieties grown in home gardens and commercially. The initial letter encompasses sweet bell peppers, mildly hot varieties like banana peppers, and ornamental types like the distinctive Bishop’s Crown. Overview of Main Pepper Varieties Beginning with “Be” Bell Peppers Bell peppers, also called sweet peppers, are … Read more

Grass-like flowers are an excellent way to incorporate texture, movement, and delightful greenery into your garden beds and borders. Many grassy plants produce delicate plumes spikes or feathery panicles that sway gracefully in the breeze. These plants come in a diverse range of sizes, forms, and foliage colors to suit any landscaping need. When planted … Read more

Climbing vines with colorful berries are popular additions to many gardens. Not only do they add vertical interest and bright pops of color some also produce edible fruit. One such eye-catching vine is the one with deep purple berries. Let’s explore this beautiful climber and learn all about caring for and enjoying this unique plant. … Read more