Rose of Sharon

Rose of Sharon

Hibiscus syriacus

Synonym:Althaea syriacus

A beautiful shrub that grows anywhere from 4 to 10 feet tall and about 3 feet wide. Best grows in zones 5a to 9a. A decideous shrub that needs full sun for maximum beauty and blooms from late spring to late fall. The optimum pH is slightly acid to neutral. Seeds are the choice for propagation and some people will claim it is invasive.

Rose of Sharon, scientifically known as Hibiscus syriacus, is a beautiful flowering shrub that belongs to the mallow family. With its stunning blossoms and versatility, this plant has become a popular choice for gardeners and landscape enthusiasts. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of the Rose of Sharon, providing information on its characteristics, cultivation, and care. Let us embark on a journey to explore the captivating world of this enchanting plant.

I. Overview of the Rose of Sharon

The Rose of Sharon, also referred to as the Syrian rose, is native to East Asia and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world. This deciduous shrub can reach a height of 8 to 12 feet, and its spread can extend up to 6 to 10 feet. The plant displays attractive green foliage during the summer and produces an abundance of flowers that vary in color, ranging from white to pink, purple, and even deep red.

II. Characteristics of the Rose of Sharon

1. Blossoms:
The Rose of Sharon blooms during the summer and early fall, showering the landscape with its vibrant and eye-catching flowers. These blossoms typically have five petals and a prominent pistil at their center, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

2. Foliage:
The shrub's leaves are dark green, lobed, and ovate in shape. They provide an excellent backdrop for the stunning display of the flowers and create an appealing contrast against the vibrant colors.

3. Varieties:
There are numerous cultivars of the Rose of Sharon, each with its unique characteristics. Some popular varieties include 'Diana,' 'Blue Bird,' 'Aphrodite,' and 'Minerva.' These cultivars differ in flower color, size, and growth habit, providing gardeners with a wide range of options to choose from.

III. Cultivation of the Rose of Sharon

1. Climate and Soil Requirements:
The Rose of Sharon thrives in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9, making it suitable for a variety of climates. It prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate some shade. The plant is adaptable to different soil types, but well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for its growth.

2. Planting:
Before planting, it is crucial to prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball and place the shrub gently, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Water thoroughly after planting to promote root establishment.

3. Watering and Fertilization:
While the Rose of Sharon is relatively drought-tolerant, regular watering is necessary, especially during dry spells. Deep watering once a week is generally sufficient. Applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help promote healthy growth and abundant flowering.

4. Pruning and Maintenance:
Pruning is an essential aspect of Rose of Sharon care. It is best to prune during early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and thin out congested areas to improve air circulation. Regular maintenance, such as mulching and weed control, will also contribute to the plant's overall health.

IV. Benefits and Uses of the Rose of Sharon

1. Ornamental Value:
The Rose of Sharon's vibrant flowers and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for adding visual appeal to landscapes, gardens, and even container plantings.

Desert Willow, Chilopsis linearis

Desert Willow

Chilopsis linearis


Desert willow, that will grow as a bush or little tree, is at home throughout desert arroyos. An arroyo (creek in Spanish) happens to be an typically dried up creek bed or narrow gorge which briefly floods with water following heavy down pours. Every rainfall provides the desert willow a solid watering plus it reacts with a sudden discharge of new development and brand new flower clusters right at the end of its limbs. It might get 2 or 3 growing bursts throughout a damp summer season.

Desert willow can be propagated with seed, softwood cuttings or hardwood cuttings. Propagation with cuttings may be the only way to make plants with similar flower color to the parent plant. Plants created from seeds possess random blossom color. Desert Willow will grow as a deciduous good sized shrub or little tree that may achieve twenty five feet tall and twenty feet wide.

Perhaps even without having the well known green leaves throughout the wintry months, the shape of Chilopsis linearis is unique on the western horizon during the early evening hours. The limbs appear to zigzag their route to the edges of the leaf cover, when lengthy, thin, papery pods dangle decoratively and discharge their cherished seeds to eager birds through the entire winter months.

Desert willow has turned into a favorite scenery plant in the Southwest. It will grow quickly whenever frequently watered, but additionally can handle long stretches with no water which makes it a great low-maintenance plant. Plus, its gorgeous flowers enhance its overall appeal. The flowers are often creamy colored with a touch of purple, however cultivars are generally picked with colorings which range from white-colored to profound purple.

The desert willow shrub is usually selected and planted early in the year. The trees may be to some extent susceptible immediately after they are planted, therefore it will pay for people to let them have a complete summer to their 1st growth. Officially, the plants may endure without the need of watering when its roots are totally established, but when they get more water, they begin to develop sooner, therefore many people suggest watering them regularly till they get to an appealing size.

Dichondra, Dichondra argentea

Dichondra argentea
'Silver Falls'
Synonyms: Kidneyweed, Dichondra repens

Originally from Northern Mexico and SW United States. Is a perennial groundcover and grows best in zones 9a to 11.

.Found in Texas and the Mexican states of Durango and Michoacan. This beautiful groundcover that has round leaves are silvery and silky on both sides. Plants grow to just a couple inches tall and spreads by way of adventitious runners to build a solid cover from spring through late autumn but is partly to fully deciduous in winter. Plant in light shade to full sun in a well drained soil and water occasionally. Silver pony-foot (Dichondra argentea) also called silver nickel vine and aluminum vine. In Mexico, its favorite environment is the eruptive substrates.

Are you searching for a beautiful and unique plant to add to your garden? Look no further than Dichondra argentea! With its striking silver foliage and low-growing habit, this plant is a showstopper that will add interest and texture to any garden.

Dichondra argentea, also known as silver ponyfoot, is a member of the morning glory family and is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is a low-growing perennial that forms a dense mat of silver leaves, making it an excellent ground cover. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are more of a curiosity than a focal point.

One of the most striking features of Dichondra argentea is its silver foliage. The leaves are soft and velvety to the touch, and their silver coloration is caused by a layer of tiny hairs that reflect light. This gives the plant a shimmering, metallic appearance that is sure to catch the eye. The leaves are also shaped like tiny fans, which adds to their unique visual appeal.

Dichondra argentea is a relatively easy plant to grow, making it a great choice for gardeners of all skill levels. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of conditions, from full sun to partial shade. However, it is important to note that the plant will not thrive in areas with consistently wet soil. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it is important to water sparingly and only when necessary.

One of the benefits of Dichondra argentea is its low maintenance requirements. The plant does not require much pruning, and it is generally resistant to pests and diseases. It is also drought tolerant once established, which makes it a great choice for xeriscaping or other water-wise gardening projects.

In addition to its visual appeal, Dichondra argentea is also a useful plant for erosion control. Its dense mat of leaves helps to hold soil in place, making it a great choice for sloped areas or other locations where erosion is a concern. The plant's low-growing habit also means that it is unlikely to interfere with other plants or structures in the garden, making it a great choice for use as a ground cover.

Overall, Dichondra argentea is a versatile and visually stunning plant that is sure to add interest and texture to any garden. With its low maintenance requirements and useful properties, it is a great choice for gardeners of all skill levels. So why not add some silver shimmer to your garden with Dichondra argentea?

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Mint Marigold, Tagetes lucida

Mint Marigold

Tagetes lucida

A native of Mexico that is widely used as a tea and cooking spice. Is used in place of tarragon spice. Normally blooms in the fall. Perennial.

Some interesting facts.

Tagetes lucida, to a great degree described as a powerful psychedelic form of the marigold flower, was first referenced by the Aztecs.

The Tagetes, or marigold, species dispersed quickly all around the globe as ornamental plants. They started in the Americas, coming from its native North American southwest scattering to Argentina
Numerous species of Tagetes are accessible in many cultivated kinds and forms, and are frequently hard to differentiate from one another.

The Aztecs utilized all the species of Tagetes for healthful purposes like with a tea cooked from the extract of the fresh herbage to the treatment of hiccups and diarrhea.

In India, a juice made from its recently pressed leaves is dispensed to treat eczema. In Argentina, the extraction of water-soluble drug substances by boiling of the leaves is drank for coughs, and when used locally on the skin, it is known as an insect repellent. In Mexico, juice that has been pressed from the herbage or crushed leaves are mixed with water or wine and drunk as an aphrodisiac.

In Mexico, they are known there as flores del muerto, or “flowers of the dead.”

Sea Hibiscus, Talipariti tiliaceum

Sea Hibiscus

Talipariti tiliaceum

also known as - Beach Hibiscus, Cottontree, Mahoe, Coastal Hibiscus,
Hibiscus tiliaceus
Green Cottonwood, Native Hibiscus, Native Rosella, Cottonwood Hibiscus, Kurrajong, Sea Rosemallow, Norfolk Hibiscus

I'm writing to tell you about one of my favorite plants, the Sea Hibiscus. This beautiful plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world, and it's a must-have for any gardener who wants to add a touch of exotic beauty to their garden.

But what makes the Sea Hibiscus such a special plant? Well, for starters, it's absolutely stunning. The Sea Hibiscus features large, showy flowers that come in a range of colors, including pink, red, white, and yellow. These flowers are so breathtaking that they're often used in traditional Hawaiian leis and other floral arrangements.

But the Sea Hibiscus isn't just a pretty face. This hardy plant is also quite easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all skill levels. It prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight, but it can also tolerate some shade and a variety of soil types.

One of the things I love most about the Sea Hibiscus is its versatility. It can be grown as a large shrub or small tree, and it's often used as a hedge or privacy screen. It's also a great choice for adding a tropical feel to a garden or patio, and it looks stunning when planted near water features like ponds or fountains.

Another great thing about the Sea Hibiscus is that it attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to support local wildlife. And because it's a fast-growing plant, it can quickly provide shade and shelter for other plants and animals in your garden.

If you're thinking about adding a Sea Hibiscus to your garden, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you choose a healthy plant from a reputable nursery or garden center. Look for plants with bright green leaves and no signs of damage or disease.

Once you've brought your Sea Hibiscus home, be sure to plant it in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Water it regularly, especially during hot, dry weather, and fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer every few months.

With a little bit of care and attention, your Sea Hibiscus will reward you with years of beauty and enjoyment. So why not give it a try? I promise you won't be disappointed.

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Cigar Plant, Cuphea ignea

Cigar Plant

Cuphea ignea
Originated in Africa.

Synonyms: Firecracker Plant, Cuphea platycentra

Grows best in zones 8a to 11. The blooms are red to reddish orange. Seems to self seed.

Are you looking for a unique and eye-catching plant to add to your garden? Look no further than the Cigar Plant! This tropical plant, also known as Cuphea ignea, is sure to captivate your attention with its fascinating appearance and easy-to-care-for nature.

Originating from Mexico, Central and South America, the Cigar Plant is a member of the Lythraceae family. This family includes over 620 species of plants, all of which are known for their showy flowers and bright colors. The Cigar Plant is no exception, featuring vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.

One of the most interesting features of the Cigar Plant is its unique, tube-shaped flowers. These flowers resemble cigars, hence the name of the plant, and grow up to 2 inches long. They are often compared to tiny torches, as they seem to blaze with color in the sunlight.

In addition to its striking appearance, the Cigar Plant is also incredibly easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering, but it can tolerate drought and heat. This makes it an ideal choice for gardeners who live in warm, dry climates, or who simply don't have a lot of time to devote to plant maintenance.

Another benefit of the Cigar Plant is its ability to attract pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds are all drawn to the bright colors and sweet nectar of the plant's flowers. This can help to increase biodiversity in your garden and promote a healthy ecosystem.

If you're interested in adding a Cigar Plant to your garden, there are several different varieties to choose from. Some popular options include:

David Verity: This variety features bright orange flowers with a yellow tip. It grows up to 3 feet tall and blooms from spring through fall.

Tiny Mice: This miniature version of the Cigar Plant only grows up to 12 inches tall. It features red and yellow flowers and is ideal for containers or small gardens.

Starfire: This cultivar has deep red flowers with yellow tips. It grows up to 2 feet tall and blooms from spring through fall.

No matter which variety you choose, the Cigar Plant is sure to impress. Its unique appearance, easy care, and ability to attract pollinators make it a standout choice for any garden. So why not give it a try? You won't be disappointed!

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Naranjilla, Solanum quitoense

Naranjilla

Solanum quitoense

Synonyms: Solanum angulatum, Quito orange, Golden Fruit of the Andes, Bed of Nails and Lulo

Naranjilla

The plant is fascinating, with large heart-shaped leaves up to 18 in. in length. The leaves and stems of the plant are blanketed in short purple hairs. They are fragile plants and must be shielded from intense winds and direct sunlight.

The Naranjilla Solanum quitoense is a tomato relative native to northern South America and it is raised commonly at high elevations, between 3 and 7 thousand feet. The plant might grow to heights of 6 to 10 feet with extra large spiny leaves, sometimes measuring 18 inches long, and 5 to 8 in. wide or larger. The dark green leaves bear purple veins on the upper surface and whitish or purplish on the lower side.

The pear-shaped berries are covered with short, stiff hairs that are pretty promptly deciduous so that they are hairless or almost so when they reach the marketplace. At prime the fruits, 2 to 3 in. in diameter, are orange, which is accountable for the Spanish name meaning "little orange." The flesh or pulp of the fruit, nonetheless, is green. The aroma and flavor are uncomparable, but many individuals have swore a likeness to a mix of strawberries and pineapple, Other people swore to that of citrus. The fruit is loaded in vitamins A and C.

It likes regular watering and can withstand short temperatures below freezing. It is easily grown in a container, and is frequently done so in regions with nematode problems as it is open to root nematodes. The plant is believed to be a abbreviated day plant, and might only set fruit if there are 8 to 10 daytime hours.

Danger in the handling of the plant might cause skin irritation or allergic response. It has spines or sharp edges; use utmost care when handling. The plant has white or near white bloom color in the middle of summer. Can be propagated from seed or dividing the root ball.

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