Ardisia is a small evergreen shrub grown for its whorls of glossy leaves, star-shaped flowers, and lasting bright red berry-like fruits. One species, Ardisia crenata, is often grown as a holiday houseplant, a second is grown as an outdoor groundcover. Ardisia is a genus of about 150 species of evergreen shrubs. Only the two species listed below […] More
Most orchids are easy to grow. All you need to do is give them what they need. In a nutshell, orchids need suitable potting soil or medium, adequate light, a warm environment–about the temperature of your house, water, fertilizer, and fresh air. These needs are just about the same for all houseplants. There are about […] More
Paphiopedilum is a genus of mostly terrestrial orchids that produce distinctive pouch-shaped flowers. Flowers appear in a range of colors and are often stripe or spotted. Paphiopedilum is a genus of about 70 tropical Asian orchids commonly known as lady’s slippers or slipper orchids because of their unique pouch. Many hybrids have been developed. Paphiopedilum […] More
Orchids make beautiful and interesting houseplants. They are not as finicky or as difficult to grow as their reputation might suggest. After all, there are nearly 1,000 genera and more than 100,000 species of orchids to choose from and those that make their way into garden centers or supermarkets are there because they are, in […] More
Nidularium is a genus in the bromeliad family, valued for its rosette-forming leaves and the bright, eye-catching central bracts that resemble a bird’s nest, which is where the name “nidularium” (derived from the Latin word nidulus, meaning “nest”) comes from. These tropical plants are native to the rainforests of Brazil and are appreciated for their […] More
Dyckia is a genus of bromeliads known for its tough, spiky, and often brightly colored foliage. Native to arid regions of Brazil and surrounding areas in South America, Dyckia species are more drought-tolerant than many other bromeliads. They are often used as ornamental plants in xeriscaping or low-water gardens, but they also thrive as indoor […] More
Vanda is a genus of epiphytic, evergreen orchids that bear large showy flowers with intricately colored sepals. Flowers appear on a long spike in succession which means Vanda produces fresh flowers over an extended period. Vanda usually blooms twice a year. Vanda flower colors include blue, deep mauve and indigo, pinkish purple, violet-blue, and pale yellow. […] More
Odontoglossum is a genus of epiphytic orchids that bear ruffled flowers that are generally white but also yellow, brown, or pink. Flowers are borne on erect or arching stalks; a vigorous plant may even produce 2 flower stalks per pseudobulb, usually 12 or more flowers in a raceme. Odontoglossum needs bright light but not direct sunlight. […] More
Lycaste is a genus of epiphytic or terrestrial orchids that bear long-lasting flowers that are often green but also pink, white, yellow, or brown. Flowers are large, triangular, waxy, and fragrant. Flowers are borne singly on leafless stems. Lycastes are deciduous to some degree. Yellow-flowered species like Lycaste aromatica flower from leafless pseudobulbs. Evergreen types such […] More
Cryptanthus, commonly known as Earth Stars, is a genus of small, terrestrial bromeliads known for their rosette of star-shaped, low-growing foliage. Native to Brazil, these plants are admired for their striking patterns, colors, and textures. Unlike many bromeliads that are epiphytic (growing on other plants), Cryptanthus species grow directly in the soil, making them a […] More
Epidendrum is a large genus of terrestrial or epiphytic orchids that are easily grown, and produce compact clusters of small, sweetly scented flowers that last up to several months on the plant. Epidendrum is a genus of more than 1,000 species. Some have pseudobulbs or thickened stems, others having canelike stems. Epidendrums with reed-like stems tend to grow too tall for […] More
Billbergia is a genus of bromeliads known for their tall, tubular rosettes and striking flower displays. Native to South America, particularly Brazil and Argentina, Billbergias are often grown for their dramatic flowers and beautiful foliage. These hardy plants are versatile, thriving both indoors as houseplants and outdoors in gardens, particularly in tropical or subtropical climates. […] More
Stephen Albert