Polygala includes perennials and shrubs that bear deep blue pea-like flowers in spring and summer. They are tender plants well-suited for warm gardens or for growing in a conservatory. Polygala flowers have 5 sepals; the inner two form broad, petal-like “wings.” Leaves are blue-green. There are 500 species in the Polygala genus. Two—Polygala x dalmaisiana […] More
Kolkwitzia is a deciduous shrub known as beautybush. It bears clusters of pink bell-shaped flowers in mid-to-late spring. Kolkwitzia is a member of the honeysuckle family. It has an arching habit similar to forsythia. It can grow to 10 feet tall and just as wide or wider but is a relatively slow grower. It requires […] More
Deutzia is a deciduous shrub grown for its airy sprays of white or pink spring flowers. Deutzias have a delicate arching habit. Some develop showy exfoliating bark with age. Deutzia flowers are borne on long stems studded with clusters of five-petalled, star-shaped, or cup-shaped flowers to about 1 inch (2.5cm) across. Deutzia blooms in spring […] More
Acacia is a large genus of evergreen or deciduous shrubs and trees that are sometimes called wattle or mimosa. Acacias bear brilliant yellow flowers in spring and early summer. A few varieties bear white or cream-colored flowers. Acacias commonly have ferny leaves and flattened leafstalks called phyllodies. Flowers look like puffballs or spikes depending on […] More
Rhaphiolepis–commonly called Indian hawthorn–is an attractive and widely planted small shrub. Its glossy, leathery leaves and compact growth habit make it a good choice for foundation planting and hedges. It is a tough plant that can withstand planting close to drives and streets. Rhaphiolepis blooms profusely from fall to late spring. Flowers range in color […] More
Plumbago– commonly called cape plumbago–is a fast-growing, long-flowering sprawling shrub or vine. It produces abundant sprays of pale, sky blue flowers from summer into autumn. Cape Plumbago produces whip-like shoots that can be trained to support as a vine. This plant tolerates salty, calcareous, and rocky soil. It is a good choice for banks and […] More
Coral tree is the common name for several deciduous and nearly evergreen trees or shrubs that are chiefly grown for their brilliant-colored flowers. Flowers range in colors from greenish-white through yellow, light orange, and light red to orange and red. Members of the Erythrina genus range in height from 3 feet (.9m) tall to more […] More
Cistus are evergreen shrubs with small to large flowers that resemble species roses. Showy, saucer-shaped papery flowers are commonly pink, purple-pink, or white. Cistus are commonly called rock roses. Cistus will grow in average to poor and even rock soil, thus the common name rock rose. Cistus are Mediterranean natives. They are drought tolerant once […] More
Cotoneaster is a genus of more than 200 deciduous to evergreen shrubs and small trees. Cotoneasters bear small white or pinkish flowers in late spring or summer, but they are mainly grown for their attractive branching pattern and small red to black fruits that follow the flowers in autumn and mostly remain on the plant […] More
Pyracantha is an upright, sprawling shrub usually grown for its glossy, deep green foliage and bright fruit. Pyracantha can be trained as an espalier screen or allowed to sprawl across the soil as a groundcover. Pyracantha is commonly called firethorn, Pyracantha is a fast, vigorous grower. It can reach mature height in only five to […] More
Many trees, shrubs, and perennials are grown especially for their autumn foliage color. Autumn is a time when many deciduous plants and a few evergreens make their presence known. Many people find the colors of autumn the loveliest of the year. Autumn plant color is part of the natural processes which begin with the shortening […] More
Deer-resistant trees, shrubs, and groundcovers are plants deer have shunned in many gardens. If deer are hungry enough, they will eat practically any kind of plant. But if deer are a problem in your garden, you may be able to discourage them–most of the time–with your plant choices. This list includes trees, shrubs, and groundcovers […] More
Stephen Albert