Coleus Plant

Solenostemon scutellarioides


USDA Zone 9a to 11

Coleus name represents many different looking plants

A disease affecting coleus is downy mildew

Propagation is easily rooted with cuttings in water and in soil using rooting hormone

Native to Malaysia and southeast Asia 


common names are Painted Nettle and Flame Nettle

If you're looking to add some color and vibrancy to your garden, look no further than the Solenostemon scutellarioides plant, also known as Coleus. This versatile plant comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a perfect addition to any garden or indoor space.

Native to tropical regions of Malaysia, Africa, and Asia, Coleus plants are known for their striking foliage and ease of care. With the right conditions, they can thrive indoors or outdoors and can be enjoyed year-round.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Coleus plant is its wide range of colors and patterns. From bright pinks and oranges to deep purples and greens, there is a Coleus for every taste and style. The patterns on the leaves can range from simple stripes to intricate mosaics, making this plant a showstopper no matter where it's placed.

Coleus plants are also incredibly versatile when it comes to placement. While they can grow up to three feet tall in ideal conditions, they can also be kept small and compact for indoor use. They can be planted in containers or directly in the ground, and can thrive in both sun and shade.

Another great benefit of the Coleus plant is its low-maintenance nature. They require little pruning and can handle some neglect without suffering. They also do well in a variety of soil types, making them a great choice for any garden.

If you're looking to add some Coleus to your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to plant them in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. They also prefer consistently moist soil, so make sure to water them regularly.

Coleus plants also benefit from occasional fertilization, especially during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer will help keep the foliage looking healthy and vibrant.

While Coleus plants are generally easy to care for, they can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Watch out for spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal infections, and take action if you notice any signs of trouble.

In conclusion, the Solenostemon scutellarioides plant, or Coleus, is a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden. With its wide range of colors and patterns, ease of care, and low-maintenance nature, it's a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.

So why not add some Coleus to your space today? Your garden (and your eyes) will thank you.

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

Purple Giant Hyssop

Single bloom Purple Giant Hyssop

Agastache scrophulariifolia

AKA:
Lavender Hyssop
giant hyssop
prairie hyssop

• Hardiness: USDA Zone 4a to 6b
• The purple giant hyssop usually are short-lived since they are easily overtaken.
• Is a nectar generator for pollinators.
• Is a native perennial and late-flowering herb of the mint family. 

  

  drawing of complete stem

• It might grow remarkably tall for a mint and grows up to 6 feet.
• May be touched by rusts and mildew.

If you’re looking for a beautiful and functional addition to your garden, look no further than the Purple Giant Hyssop. This stunning perennial herb is native to North America and is a favorite among gardeners for its attractive appearance, low maintenance requirements, and medicinal properties.

The Purple Giant Hyssop, also known as Agastache Scrophulariifolia, is a member of the mint family and can grow up to 4 feet tall. Its striking purple flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall and are a favorite of pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant’s leaves have a distinctive anise-like aroma and can be used to make a delicious tea.

One of the best things about the Purple Giant Hyssop is that it is relatively easy to grow and maintain. It prefers full sun but can also thrive in partial shade. It is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including clay, loamy, and sandy soils. The plant is known to be drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for dry regions.

One important consideration when planting Purple Giant Hyssop is spacing. The plant should be given plenty of room to grow, with at least 2-3 feet of space between each plant. This will help to ensure good air circulation and prevent the plant from becoming overcrowded.

In addition to its aesthetic qualities, the Purple Giant Hyssop has a number of medicinal properties. Its leaves and flowers can be used to make a variety of remedies, including teas, tinctures, and salves. The plant is known for its antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections, digestive issues, and skin conditions.

If you’re looking to incorporate Purple Giant Hyssop into your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be sure to choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Second, be sure to give the plant plenty of space to grow. Finally, consider its medicinal properties and explore ways to use it in your home remedies.

In summary, Purple Giant Hyssop is a beautiful and functional addition to any garden. Its striking appearance, low maintenance requirements, and medicinal properties make it a favorite among gardeners. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, the Purple Giant Hyssop is definitely worth considering for your next garden project.

Happy gardening! You can find the many variaties of Purple Giant Hyssop at Amazon. (I will receive compensation if you buy).

Salvia Redann

Photo taken at San Antonio Botanical Garden

Salvia vanhoutii
Salvia splendens


Synonyms:
Scarlet Sage
Scarlet Salvia
Red Sage
Red Salvia
Tropical sage

Salvia splendens  4.8 to 26.3 ft in height

Salvia vanhoutii  3.2 to 4.4 ft. in. height (dwarf).

Dwarf sizes go by names like as 'Sizzler' and 'Salsa'

Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit winner.

Hardiness: USDA Zone 9a to 11

A perennial native to Brazil

Named about 1822. At that time it was known by the common name "Lee's scarlet sage".

I wanted to take a moment to talk to you about a plant that I’ve recently become enamored with: Salvia Redann. This herbaceous perennial has quickly become a favorite in my garden, and I think it’s worth exploring for any of you who love to garden as much as I do.

First off, let’s talk about what Salvia Redann is. This plant is a member of the Salvia genus, which includes over 900 different species. Salvia Redann is a hybrid variety, and is a cross between Salvia officinalis and Salvia lavandulaefolia. It’s a hardy plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with attractive green leaves and bright red flowers.

So why should you consider adding Salvia Redann to your garden? Here are just a few reasons:

It’s a pollinator magnet. Salvia Redann’s bright red flowers are irresistible to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. By planting this herb in your garden, you’re helping to support these important creatures and do your part to promote biodiversity.

It’s easy to care for. Salvia Redann is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t require a lot of fussing. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can also handle some shade. It’s drought-tolerant, too, and can withstand hot temperatures.

It has a variety of uses. Salvia Redann is not only a beautiful addition to your garden, it also has a number of practical uses. Its leaves can be used to make tea, which is said to have calming and soothing properties. It’s also a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, adding a fragrant and slightly bitter flavor to meats, vegetables, and sauces.

It’s a tough plant. As a hybrid variety, Salvia Redann is particularly resilient and resistant to pests and diseases. It’s also a good choice for gardeners who live in areas with harsh or unpredictable weather, as it can handle both extremes of heat and cold.

If all of these reasons weren’t enough to convince you to try Salvia Redann in your garden, let me share a personal anecdote. Last year, I had a problem with aphids attacking my vegetable garden. I tried a number of different natural remedies, but nothing seemed to work. Then I remembered that Salvia is known for its insect-repelling properties, so I planted Salvia Redann along the borders of my garden. Sure enough, the aphids disappeared, and my vegetables thrived.

In conclusion, I highly recommend giving Salvia Redann a try in your garden. It’s a versatile, hardy plant that’s both beautiful and practical. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this herb is sure to provide you with years of enjoyment and benefits.

Happy gardening! Amazon can provide you with all the different Salvia Redann, check it out. (I will receive compensation if you buy).

Papaya

Papaya unripe fruit

Carica papaya

Also known as:
Mamão
Melon Tree
papaw or pawpaw
red papaya
yellow papaw

Photos from Kauai,Hawaii and from wikipedia

Hardiness: USDA Zone 9a to 11

Vulnerable to fruit flies

The bark and stem can be used in making rope.

The tree's latex and the green papaya fruit is used as a meat tenderizer.

a source of nutrients such as vitamin C, folate, provitamin A carotenoids(beta carotene) and dietary fiber.

Showing the seeds of Papaya

The papaya's black seeds are edible with a spicy, sharp taste. They may be ground up and used as a replacement for black pepper.

I want to talk to you today about a fruit that I think deserves more attention in the gardening world: the papaya. This tropical fruit is not only delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients and surprisingly easy to grow. So, let's dive into everything you need to know about growing papayas in your own backyard.

First, let's talk about the basics. Papayas are native to Central and South America, but they are now grown in tropical regions all over the world. They are typically grown from seed, and they require a warm, sunny location with well-draining soil. Papayas are also somewhat finicky when it comes to temperature, and they can be damaged by cold weather.

When it comes to planting, it's important to remember that papayas are dioecious, meaning that they have separate male and female plants. If you want to grow your own papayas, you'll need at least one male and one female plant. You can tell the difference between the two by looking at the flowers – female flowers will have a small fruit at the base, while male flowers won't.

One of the great things about papayas is that they grow quickly and produce fruit relatively early. You can expect to see fruit on your papaya trees within a year or two of planting. The fruit itself is oblong and usually weighs between one and 10 pounds. When ripe, the flesh is sweet and juicy, with a slightly musky flavor.

But perhaps the most impressive thing about papayas is their nutritional content. They are loaded with vitamins A and C, as well as potassium, magnesium, and fiber. Papayas also contain enzymes that help with digestion, making them a great addition to any diet.

So, now that you know a little more about papayas, let's talk about how to care for them. As I mentioned earlier, papayas need warm, sunny conditions to thrive. They also need regular watering, but be careful not to overwater them – papayas are susceptible to root rot. If you live in an area that gets cold in the winter, you may want to consider planting your papayas in containers so you can bring them inside when temperatures drop.

Another thing to keep in mind is that papayas are prone to a few pests and diseases. The most common problem is papaya fruit fly, which can damage the fruit and make it inedible. To prevent fruit fly infestations, you can cover your papaya trees with netting or use insecticides.

In terms of pruning, papayas don't require much. You can remove any dead or damaged branches as needed, but otherwise, just let them grow. Papayas can get quite tall – up to 20 feet – so if you're growing them in a smaller space, you may want to keep them pruned to a manageable size.

In conclusion, I think papayas are a fantastic fruit for gardeners to grow. They are relatively easy to care for, produce delicious and nutritious fruit, and add a tropical touch to any garden. So, if you're looking for a new fruit to add to your garden, give papayas a try. You won't be disappointed.

Happy gardening! Amazon can provide any need for Papaya. (I will receive compensation if you buy).

Garden Phlox

garden phlox

Phlox paniculata


Aka:
perennial phlox
summer phlox

• Hardiness: Zones 4a to 8b
• Flowers in summer through fall

Are you looking to add some colorful and attractive plants to your garden? If so, I have just the plant for you. The phlox plant is a real gem that brings a burst of color to any garden. I am going to walk you through everything you need to know about the phlox plant.

Phlox plant is a popular perennial plant that is known for its bright and vibrant colors. This plant is native to North America and is commonly found in meadows, fields and along stream banks. Phlox plants come in a wide range of colors, from pink, purple, red, and white, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to add vibrant colors to their garden.

One of the great things about the phlox plant is that it is easy to grow and maintain. Phlox plants prefer moist, well-drained soil and require full sunlight to thrive. These plants are also tolerant of a variety of soil types and can grow in both acidic and alkaline soil.

Phlox plants can grow up to two feet tall and spread out to about three feet wide, making them an excellent option for gardeners who want to create a low-maintenance border or groundcover. These plants bloom from early summer to fall, providing you with months of beautiful blooms.

If you are interested in growing phlox plants in your garden, here are some tips to help you get started:

Choose the right location - Phlox plants need plenty of sunlight to thrive, so choose a location in your garden that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

Prepare the soil - Phlox plants prefer moist, well-drained soil. Add organic matter to your soil to improve drainage and water retention.

Planting - Plant phlox plants in the spring or fall, when the soil is moist and the temperatures are mild. Make sure to space the plants at least 12 inches apart to give them room to grow.

Watering - Phlox plants need regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water the plants deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather.

Fertilizing - Phlox plants benefit from organic fertilization. Apply a balanced organic fertilizer in the spring and again in the summer.

Pruning - Prune phlox plants back in the fall after they have finished blooming. This will help to promote healthy growth and prevent the plants from becoming too woody.

Phlox plants are also known to attract butterflies, hummingbirds and bees to your garden, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to create a wildlife-friendly garden.

In conclusion, the phlox plant is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that can add a burst of color to any garden. With its vibrant colors and ability to attract wildlife, the phlox plant is an excellent choice for gardeners who want to create a beautiful and wildlife-friendly garden. So, why not add a few phlox plants to your garden today and enjoy months of stunning blooms!

Happy gardening! Amazon can provide any need for Phlox. ( I will receive compensation if you buy).

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).

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).

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).

Pyramid Bush, Melochia tomentosa

Synonyms: Aka:

Hibiscus Waimeae

Hibiscus waimeae

Aka:
White Kauai Rosemallow
Koki'o Ke'oke'o 

It is really a little, gray-barked shrub nearly 9 feet tall, located on Kaua'i island in fairly drier woodlands in and around Waimea Canyon and close by valleys.

The seed of  Hibiscus waimeae is found in a hard, oblong capsules that are a good inch long.

It was last noticed in the 1920's in and around Wainiha Valley. Chipper Wichman and Steve Perlman, In 1977, located a few plants of the highly scarce Hawaiian Hibiscus at the foot of a waterfall within a valley inside Limahuli Preserve on Kaua'i.

Hibiscus waimeae is readily developed from fresh new seeds, but Hawaiian hibiscus will hybridize quickly and new plants can be quite totally different from the parent plant.

There's 2 white colored flowered Hibiscus varieties indigenous to Hawaii, Hibiscus waimeae and Hibiscus arnottianus .

Can still be found in Hawaii, I took this picture in the botanical garden in Kaua'i.

They are known locally in Hawaii as koki'o ke'oke'o.

The blooms last a single day, starting out white and changing to pink in the afternoon.

Walking Iris

Neomarica gracilis

Aka:
Apostle Plant

A walking iris is not hard to cultivate if you want to share.

After the plant becomes large, it's easy to separate the clump in the autumn and distribute the iris throughout the garden.

They'll endure temps in the lower 20s.

Walking iris is a great looking, selection of plants.

Include just one to your garden and add up the returns as plants sprout up form to the flower stalks.

They're spectacular in hanging containers with all the flowers dangling down throughout.

They can also be developed for the leaves that create an attractive accent with it's blades.

It can be grown out of doors in area 8a and 8b.

The Walking Iris was found in Brazil close to the ocean in some  sandy soil in the shade.

It'll grow in 100 % sun however it's color is better while in the light sun and if it is watered on a regular basis.
The most effective circumstance appears to be if it is in damp, nicely drained soil in spots where the a.m. sunlight may get it, yet still possess the shade during the afternoon.

It  is a  type  of iris identified with the scientific name  Neomarica gracilis. It's not really a member of the genus Iris , yet it is very closely linked.

It is also well-known with the popular names of Apostle Plant and Twelve Apostles, which originated from the statement that your Walking iris won't flower till it's got 12 actual leaves.

The foliage is believed to symbolize the followers of Christ and the primary stalk with blooms is a rendering of Christ.

It's indigenous to the southern part of Brazil and Mexico.

The people from Brazil named this plant 'Marica'.

When it actually begins to dominate the garden look to be "thinned" out frequently.

In cooler locations, the Walking Iris can even be grown in a pot and brought in the house during wintertime.

These perennials are simple enough to develop and need less upkeep.

The Walking iris is appealing to bees, birds, and butterflies.

The blossoms will most likely be seen once the Walking iris is 2 years old.

Usually within a speedy developing scenario or warmer areas, this will occur within 12 months. The most effective growing circumstances are if it moves from sunlit to one half day low light, particularly if it has the morning hours sunshine.

Right after every single bloom air roots, a tiny plant will develop.

Either place the flower in a four inch container of soil that is still connected with the mommy plant or cut and re-pot. Both ways get the job done.

The extra weight from the establishing tiny plant will cause the foliage to bend and contact the earth. The new plant will root within the earth and that causes the plant seem to be walking.

That's the reason it known as walking iris.

Common Camellia

Camellia japonica

Aka:  Japanese Camellia, Rose of winter

                                  

There are actually more than 150 kinds of springtime flowering camellias.

Plant dimensions can vary just as much as blossom variety does.

Camellias can be from little elegant small flowers to much larger types you may use for a display screen or hedge.

Camellia japonica cultivars flowers early in the year, generally about March and April.

They develop good in partial cover from the sun and really should be trimmed once they are finished putting out flowers.

Like countless from the South's much-loved decorative plants, camellias came from China and taiwan and arrived at Canada and America by way of Europe.

The genus  Camellia  contains numerous varieties, but of them, 3 have unique significance and attention as Southerly plants, they are:

Camellia japonica
Camellia sasanqua
Camellia sinensis

Specimens of  Camellia japonica  indicate the site of countless significant plantations and old homesteads all over the South.

While camellia japonica occasionally set seeds which can be germinated, the majority are duplicated from clippings or grafted to Camellia sasanqua rootstocks.

The attractiveness of the flowers challenges those of the peony and rose, as the leaves are beautiful all through the year, in accordance from a short article by Dr. Bill Welch, Texas A&M University.

Amazon can provide any need for Common Camellia.(I will receive compensation if you buy).