Pages

Monday, March 31, 2014

Neem Tree

Neem tree blooms

Azadirachta indica

aka:
Nimtree
Indian Lilac
According to Dr.D.D.Faye also known as
India: The Village Pharmacy
India: The Wonder Tree
Africa: The Cure For Forty Diseases
Neem is a rapid-growing tree which can reach a height of 49 to 66 ft.

Neem is a major component in non-pesticidal management also known as NPM, furnishing a natural option to synthetic pesticides.

Other uses

Toiletries: is used for preparing cosmetics such as balms, creams, shampoo, soap and toothpaste.

Toothbrush: slender neem twigs are first chewed as a toothbrush and then split as a tongue cleaner. This practice has been used in Africa, India and the Middle East for hundred of years. It has been found to be as efficient as a toothbrush in cutting back gingival inflammation and plaque.

Cosmetics : Neem is thought of in India as beauty care. Pulverized leaves are a major part of at least 1 widely applied facial cream. Purified neem oil is also utilized in nail polish and many other toiletries.

Lubricator : In small communities of India, it is normally used to grease their cart wheels.

Fertilizer : Neem has been used as a fertilizer. It is widely used to fertilize cash crops, especially vegetables and sugarcane. Plowed into the soil, it defends plant roots from white ants and nematodes.

Neem bark include 14% tannin, an quantity similar to that in established tannin giving trees.

Honey : In areas of Asia neem honey requires premium prices, and people promote beekeeping by growing neem trees.

Soap : India uses 80% of it's supply of neem oil by neem oil soap manufacturers. In addition, it is antifungal and antibacterial, moisturizing and soothing.

Amazon can provide any need for neem. Or neem tree.( I will receive compensation if you buy).


Friday, March 28, 2014

Rosemary Herb

Rosemary bush

Rosmarinus officinalis



Hardiness: USDA Zone 7a to 10b

Wonderful Aroma, just crab a handful of rosemary and rub it. Fantastic!




The leaves are used to flavor many different foods, like roast meats and stuffings.

It is a evergreen and repeatedly blooms.

Rosemary blooms

As a fellow gardening enthusiast, I am excited to share with you all today the wonders of the Rosemary herb. Rosemary is not only a beautiful plant to add to your garden, but it also has numerous benefits that make it a valuable addition to any gardener's collection.

Rosemary, or Rosmarinus officinalis, is a perennial evergreen shrub that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the mint family and has a distinct pine-like aroma that is both calming and invigorating. Historically, Rosemary was used for medicinal purposes to treat different ailments, including memory loss, digestion issues, and even to help alleviate pain.

In addition to its medicinal uses, Rosemary is also a fantastic herb to cook with. It adds a unique flavor to dishes and pairs well with roasted meats, potatoes, and vegetables. Another advantage of Rosemary is that it is easy to grow and very low maintenance. It thrives in sunny environments and requires minimal watering, making it a perfect addition to any garden.

Here are some tips on how to care for your Rosemary plant:

Choose the right location: Rosemary thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It can grow in containers or planted directly in the ground, but it is crucial to ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.

Watering: Rosemary does not require much water, so be careful not to overwater it. It is best to let the soil dry out between watering sessions.

Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to keep your Rosemary plant healthy and bushy. Prune it back to its woody stems, and new growth will emerge from the base.

Harvesting: You can harvest Rosemary leaves at any time, but the best time is right before the plant blooms. Cut off a sprig or two and use it fresh, or dry it out to use later.

Rosemary is a versatile herb that can be used in various ways. Here are some of the benefits of using Rosemary:

Boosts Memory: Rosemary contains compounds that improve cognitive function and memory. It is known to help improve concentration, focus, and memory retention.

Improves Digestion: Rosemary can help alleviate digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and constipation. It has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the digestive tract and promote healthy digestion.

Relieves Stress: The aroma of Rosemary has a calming effect that helps to reduce stress and anxiety. It also helps to lower cortisol levels, which is the hormone responsible for stress.

Enhances Hair Growth: Rosemary oil is used in hair care products due to its ability to stimulate hair growth. It helps to improve blood circulation in the scalp, which promotes healthy hair growth.

In conclusion, Rosemary is a herb that every gardener should consider cultivating. Whether you are looking to add some flavor to your meals, want to enjoy its medicinal benefits, or want to add a beautiful evergreen shrub to your garden, Rosemary has got you covered. With proper care and maintenance, your Rosemary plant will thrive and provide you with an abundance of benefits for years to come.

I hope it has inspired you to add Rosemary to your garden.

Happy gardening! Amazon can provide any need for the rosemary herb (2#ad). (I will receive compensation if you buy).

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Variegated Devil's Backbone


Euphorbia tithymaloides

Synonyms:
Japanese Poinsettia
Slipper Spurge
Redbird Cactus
Christmas Candle 'Variegatus'

Grows in San Antonio, Texas. Does not survive extreme cold here of about 32 degrees F. Use indoors.

Today, we're excited to introduce you to the Variegated Devil's Backbone, a striking plant that's sure to capture your attention.

The Variegated Devil's Backbone, also known as Euphorbia tithymaloides, is a popular houseplant that's native to tropical areas of Central and South America. It's a member of the Euphorbiaceae family and is also commonly referred to as "Redbird Cactus" or "Jacob's Ladder."

One of the most striking features of the Variegated Devil's Backbone is its unique, zig-zagging stems that are adorned with eye-catching, variegated leaves. The leaves are a mix of green and creamy-white, with a delicate, lace-like texture that adds a touch of elegance to any room.

This plant is relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginners or busy gardeners who want to add some greenery to their home without too much fuss. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and can tolerate a range of temperatures, though it prefers to be kept in a warm, humid environment.

When it comes to watering, the Variegated Devil's Backbone is fairly low-maintenance. It should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. It's also important to note that this plant is toxic to humans and pets if ingested, so be sure to keep it out of reach of curious children and animals.

In addition to its striking appearance and low-maintenance care requirements, the Variegated Devil's Backbone also has some surprising health benefits. The plant contains a milky sap that's been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including skin irritations, respiratory issues, and even cancer.

While we don't recommend ingesting the plant or using its sap without proper medical guidance, it's interesting to note that this beautiful houseplant has more to offer than just its looks.

Overall, the Variegated Devil's Backbone is a unique and visually stunning addition to any indoor garden. Its striking appearance and low-maintenance care requirements make it a great choice for both experienced and novice gardeners, while its potential health benefits add an intriguing dimension to this already fascinating plant.

So why not add a Variegated Devil's Backbone to your collection today? We're sure you won't regret it.

Happy Gardening! Amazon can provide any need for Variegated Devil's Backbone . (I will receive compensation if you buy).

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Pyramid Bush, Melochia tomentosa

Synonyms: Aka:

Pyramid Bush
Broom Weed
Wooly Pyramid Bush
Tea Bush
Raichie
black widow
balsam
bretónica afelpada
bois-champignon




  • Pyramid bush grows in dry areas
  • Range of pyramid bush stretches from southern Texas and southern Florida through and through the Central America and West Indies into Colombia and Brazil.
  • Hardiness: USDA Zone 8a to 11.
  • Growth of the pyramid bush seedlings in Texas attained 2 feet in only 2 months.
  • It flowers in Texas throughout the summer and early fall 

Melochia tomentosa, commonly known as Pyramid Bush, Teabush, or Woolly Pyramid Bush, is a plant species with some interesting characteristics.

Here are key facts about this plant:

Description: Melochia tomentosa is a small, perennial shrub that typically grows to about 1-3 feet in height. It is known for its pyramid shape, which gives it the common name "Pyramid Bush." The plant has small, lanceolate leaves that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a velvety texture.

Flowers and Fruits: The plant produces small, five-petaled flowers, usually pink or purple in color. These are followed by small, capsule-like fruits containing seeds.

Habitat: It is native to the southern United States, particularly in Texas and Florida, and can also be found in parts of Central and South America. The plant typically grows in sandy soils and is often found in coastal areas, pine barrens, and open woodlands.

Uses: While not widely known for its uses, Melochia tomentosa is sometimes used in butterfly gardens as it attracts various types of butterflies and pollinators.

Cultivation: The plant is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can be grown from seeds or cuttings and requires well-drained soil. Due to its size and shape, it is sometimes used in landscaping as a border plant or in rock gardens.

Conservation Status: Melochia tomentosa is not listed as threatened or endangered, but like any native plant species, it plays a role in its local ecosystem and should be preserved in its natural habitat.

Ecological Role: The plant serves as a host for several butterfly species, thus contributing to the biodiversity of its native regions.

Remember, the specific care and impact of this plant can vary based on the region and environmental conditions. If you're considering growing Melochia tomentosa, it's a good idea to check local guidelines and ensure it's suitable for your area.