Members of the genus Myrtus–commonly called Myrtles–are upright and rounded evergreen shrubs and trees. They are grown for their aromatic leaves and their solitary, bowl-shaped, fragrant white flowers. Myrtles can be grown in shrub borders, as topiaries, or as small houseplants. Myrtus can be grown as an informal hedge. They generally need long, hot summers […] More
Philodendrons have large, glossy, leather leaves in a variety of leaf shapes, colors, and sizes. Philodendrons are tropical climbing, trailing, or occasionally erect plant with thick stems to 6 feet (2m) in length. Philodendron leaves may be green or red, and heart-shaped, fiddle-shaped, sword-shaped, rounded, or triangular. They may have smooth edges or deep clefts. […] More
Maranta–commonly called prayer plant–is a leafy, low-growing tropical evergreen perennial. It has broad, oval leaves supported by short leafstalks. Leaves are green with gray or red veins and symmetrical featherlike markings. Maranta leaves fold up at night and resemble praying hands. Maranta is cultivated for their crowded clumps of intricately patterned, blunt-ended, elliptic leaves. Maranta […] More
Hypoestes–commonly called polka-dot plant–is a striking plant with liberally marked lavender-rose and white leaves. It can be grown indoors in bright light or outdoors in year-round subtropical regions. Hypoestes are good houseplants; they may also be grown as annuals and used as bedding or in patio containers. In warm-winter regions, they can be grown as […] More
English ivy is a small-leafed evergreen vine. It is well suited for indoor growing and growing in container and hanging basket. Use English ivy as a border edging or groundcover in partially shady gardens. Get to know English Ivy Where to plant English Ivy When to plant English Ivy Planting and spacing English Ivy How […] More
Fittonia–commonly called nerve plant– is also called mosaic plant for its intricate mosaic pattern of prominent veins in shades of red, white, or silver. Fittonia is low-growing and very temperamental with regard to humidity. Fittonia grows mounded or creeping to about 6 inches (15cm) tall. It is best displayed in a hanging basket. It is […] More
Ficus–ornamental figs–can be trees, shrubs, or woody vines. Leaves are commonly thick and resilient and make good houseplants. In warm-winter regions, ornamental figs can be planted outdoors in containers and the landscape. Ficus is a genus of more than 800 species of trees and shrubs. The Ficus genus includes large trees to 40 feet tall […] More
Dracaenas are shrubby or treelike evergreen tropical plants. Dracaenas vary in form; some are short with strappy leaves; some are taller with broader leaves. Plants can grow to 10 feet (3m) tall and leaves to 2 feet (60cm) long. Dracaenas are very popular houseplants. there are several species and cultivars. Most Dracaenas have singe unbranched […] More
Fatsia–commonly called Japanese aralia– is a fast-growing evergreen shrub or houseplant. It grows well in cool situations and low light. It is a good choice for the shade garden or low light entries. Fatsia is a genus of only 1 species and 2 cultivars. It is a quick-growing and long-lasting plant. Fatsia has a single, […] More
Polyscias–commonly called Aralia–is a fast-growing plant ideal for cool spots. Aralias can be fussy; they need fresh air, but no drafts, good light, but not direct sun, and enough water, but not too much. If aralia is doing well, don’t move it. Polyscias grow well in a mixture of fibrous loam, leafmold, and a bit […] More
Dieffenbachia–commonly called Dumbcane–is a reliable, easy-to-grow tropical plant; it is often grown as a houseplant in temperate climates. It has large, paddle-shaped green leaves that are often variegated green, cream, and gold. Dieffenbachia is an upright shrubby evergreen plant native to Tropical America. It can grow to 6 feet (2m) tall. Dieffenbachia thrives in a […] More
Jade plant, Crassula, is a sturdy, adaptable house plant suited for small and large pots. In warm winter regions, it can grow to the size of a shrub or small tree. Crassula is a genus of succulent herbs and shrubs, mostly from South Africa. They are sun lovers and thrive best in sandy loam with […] More
Stephen Albert