Although many people associate hibiscus with tropical or subtropical regions, it also grows in temperate climates throughout the world. The large Hibiscus genus of over 200 species and many more cultivars includes annuals, perennials, shrubs, and small trees. The large, trumpet-shaped flowers of up to 12 inches in diameter are common to all hibiscus—they are the main attraction of this popular ornamental. The […]
Fatsia spider web is an evergreen shrub that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It is popular for producing large, palmate, green leaves decorated with heavy white variegation. These markings change with age and season, making it a unique plant to observe throughout the year. This hardy plant readily adapts to changes in environment and is easy to move indoors […]
The Incrediball® hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens ‘Abetwo’ Incrediball) is a broadleaf, deciduous flowering shrub. Like Annabelle hydrangea, it is a cultivar of the smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) that is hardy and flowers on new wood, but Incrediball has stronger branches and bigger flower heads than the Annabelle. The cultivar name is ‘Abetwo,’ while “Incrediball”—notably, not “incredible”—is a trademark name. “Incrediball” was presumably chosen as the […]
Gerbera daisies are so vividly colored that they can sometimes make you wonder if they’re real. Native to South Africa, Gerbera jamesonii is in the Aster family, alongside sunflowers. Gerbera daisies today are the result of hybridization techniques. In most parts of the United States, Gerberas are tender perennials that come back every year. In cold winter zones without winter protection, these plants are […]
A real flower that looks like a speckled night sky If you’re looking for a showstopping flower that looks spectacular in containers, cascading over the sides of hanging baskets, or being used as an eye-catching bedding plant, look no further than the galaxy petunia. Also called night sky petunia, this new species was created by an Italian plant breeder who crossed two […]
The Chamaecyparis genus, often referred to as false cypress trees, offers a wide array of sizes and colors for anyone searching for a textured evergreen. Some are tall conical trees while others are smaller dwarf tree varieties, better suited for use as hedges. Adorned with textured, scaly, cedar-like foliage, false cypress trees can be seen with green, blue-green, blue-gray, yellow, or gold foliage. […]