Cottongrass, Eriophorum

Cottongrass, also known as Eriophorum, is a type of plant that grows in wet areas like bogs. They are named for their fluffy, white seed heads that resemble cotton.

Appearance: Cottongrass has tall, thin stems and grass-like leaves. The cottony tufts appear after the plant flowers.
Habitat: They thrive in cold, wet places like the Arctic tundra, but can also be found in other parts of the Northern Hemisphere.
Ecological Importance: Cottongrass helps to stabilize the soil in wetlands, preventing erosion. They also provide food and shelter for wildlife.
Historical Uses: People used the cottony fluff for insulation, stuffing, and even as a substitute for cotton.

Conservation: Some types of cottongrass are threatened by habitat loss and pollution, so efforts are underway to protect them.

Trailing African Daisy, Dimorphotheca fruticosa

Facts about the Trailing African Daisy:

Scientific Name:

Primarily known as Dimorphotheca fruticosa

Also referred to by its synonym, Osteospermum fruticosum

Common Names:

Trailing African Daisy

Shrubby Daisybush

Freeway Daisy (due to its prevalence along roadsides in California)

Origin:

Native to coastal areas of South Africa and southwestern Arabia

Appearance:

Flowers: Large, daisy-like blooms in shades of white, purple, lavender, or yellow. They open during the day and close at night and on overcast days.
Leaves: Long, fleshy, and green-blue in color.
Growth Habit: Low-growing, trailing or spreading plant, reaching heights of about 18 inches.

Growing Conditions:

Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
Water: Moderate watering. Avoid overwatering.
Soil: Well-draining soil, but can tolerate a variety of soil types.
Temperature: Hardy to 20 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate salty coastal conditions.

Uses:

Ground cover

Rock gardens

Hanging baskets

Borders

Raised beds

Containers

Additional Facts:

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Can become dormant in hot summer months.

Easy to care for and drought-tolerant.

A popular choice for adding a burst of color to gardens and landscapes.

Canadian serviceberry, Amelanchier canadensis

Scientific Classification:

Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Eudicots
Clade: Rosids
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Subfamily: Amygdaloideae
Genus: Amelanchier
Species: A. canadensis

Common Names:

Canadian Serviceberry

Shadbush

Juneberry

Chuckley Pear

Origin and Distribution:

Native to eastern North America, from Newfoundland to Ontario and Minnesota, south to northern Florida.

Typically found in woodlands, thickets, and along streams and ponds.

Growth Habit and Characteristics:

Large deciduous shrub or small tree.

Reaches a height of 6-25 feet (2-8 meters) and a spread of 15-20 feet (5-6 meters).

Multi-stemmed with a spreading, rounded crown.

Smooth, gray bark on mature branches, younger twigs may be purplish-red.

Leaves are alternate, simple, oval-shaped with finely serrated edges, 1-2.5 inches long.

Foliage is deep green in spring and summer, turning brilliant orange-red in fall.

Flowers and Fruits:

Blooms in early spring (March-April) before leaves emerge.

Flowers are white, fragrant, 5-petaled, borne in drooping clusters.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Fruits are small, round, berry-like pomes, initially red and maturing to dark purple-blue in early summer (June-July).

Fruits are sweet, juicy, and edible, often used in jams, pies, and other desserts.

Important food source for birds and other wildlife.

Cultivation and Uses:

Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil.

Tolerates a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade.

Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods.

Can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.

Popular ornamental plant for its spring flowers, edible fruit, and fall foliage.

Used in landscaping as a specimen plant, in hedges, or as part of naturalized plantings.

Fruits can be eaten fresh, cooked, or processed.

No serious pest or disease problems.

Additional Notes:

The name "serviceberry" is associated with the timing of its bloom, coinciding with the time when the ground thawed enough for funeral services to be held in early spring.

"Shadbush" refers to the simultaneous blooming of the flowers and the shad fish running in rivers.

Common dog-violet, Viola riviniana

Viola riviniana, commonly known as dog violet, is a perennial flowering plant native to Eurasia and Africa. It belongs to the Violaceae family and is found in various habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and shady hedge banks.

Physical Characteristics:

Flowers: The flowers are typically violet-colored, hence the name. They have five petals with a distinct spur at the back. The flowers bloom from April to June.
Leaves: The leaves are heart-shaped and dark green, growing in a rosette pattern at the base of the plant.
Height: Dog violet grows to a height of about 10 cm (4 inches).

Habitat and Distribution:

Habitat: Dog violet thrives in well-drained soils and can be found in a variety of environments, including woodlands, meadows, and hedgerows. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.
Distribution: This species is widespread across Europe, including Britain, and extends to parts of Asia and Africa.

Other Information:

Pollination: Dog violet is primarily pollinated by bees and butterflies.
Symbolism: It was voted the county flower of Lincolnshire, England in 2002.
Similar species: Dog violet is often confused with the sweet violet (Viola odorata), but it lacks the sweet fragrance of the latter.
Etymology: The name "dog violet" is thought to have originated from the fact that the plant was considered worthless compared to the sweet violet, which was valued for its scent.

Ecological Importance:

Dog violet is a valuable food source for various insects, including butterflies and moths.

It plays a role in maintaining biodiversity in its habitats.

Please note that this information is a general overview of Viola riviniana. More specific details may vary depending on the location and growing conditions.

Tomatillo, Physalis philadelphica

The tomatillo, also known as husk tomato or Mexican green tomato, is a small, round fruit with a papery husk. It is native to Mexico and has a unique tart and slightly sweet flavor.

Here are some key facts about tomatillos:

Appearance: Small, round, green or purple fruit enclosed in a papery husk.
Flavor: Tart and slightly sweet.
Origin: Mexico.
Culinary Uses: Commonly used in salsas, can also be roasted, grilled, or added to stews and soups.
Nutritional Value: Good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.

Tomatillos are a versatile ingredient with a rich history and are a delicious and healthy addition to any meal.

Other Names:

Tomatillos are also known as husk tomatoes, Mexican green tomatoes, or miltomatos. In Mexico, they are sometimes called tomates verdes.

Overall, tomatillos are a versatile and nutritious fruit with a rich history and cultural significance. They are a delicious and healthy addition to any diet.

Pattypan squash, Cucurbita pepo

Pattypan squash, also known as patty pan or scallop squash, is a variety of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) known for its unique shape and vibrant colors.

Physical Characteristics:

Shape: Pattypan squash is round and shallow with scalloped edges, resembling a flying saucer or a scallop shell.

Size: They typically range from 2 to 5 inches in diameter.

Color: Pattypan squash comes in various colors, including white, yellow, orange, green, and even multicolored varieties.

Texture: Young pattypan squash has tender skin and flesh, while mature ones develop tougher skin but still retain a soft interior.

Nutritional Value:

Pattypan squash is a low-calorie vegetable, providing around 20-30 calories per cup.

It is a good source of vitamins A and C, both of which are important for immune function and skin health.

It also contains magnesium, which is essential for bone health and energy production.

Pattypan squash is low in fat and cholesterol-free.

Culinary Uses:

Cooking Methods: Pattypan squash can be cooked in various ways, including sautéing, grilling, roasting, baking, and steaming.

Flavor: It has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor similar to zucchini but with a firmer texture.

Versatility: Pattypan squash can be used in various dishes, such as salads, soups, stews, and side dishes. It can also be stuffed or used as a decorative edible bowl.

Growing and Harvesting:

Season: Pattypan squash is a warm-season crop, typically grown during the summer months.

Harvesting: It is best harvested when young and tender, usually when the fruits are 2-4 inches in diameter.

Interesting Facts:

The name "pattypan" is believed to have originated from "a pan for baking a patty."

In French, it is called "pâtisson," derived from a Provençal word for a cake made in a scalloped mold.

Pattypan squash is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines.

By incorporating pattypan squash into your diet, you can enjoy its unique flavor, vibrant colors, and nutritional benefits. Its versatility makes it a welcome addition to a wide range of culinary creations.

Hoya carnosa

Hoya carnosa, also known as the porcelainflower or wax plant, is a popular houseplant native to Eastern Asia and Australia. It is beloved for its waxy foliage, fragrant flowers, and easy care.

Plant Characteristics:

Leaves:Thick, waxy, and typically dark green. Some varieties have variegated or curled leaves.

Flowers:Star-shaped, clustered blooms in various colors, including white, pink, and red. They often have a sweet fragrance.

Growth Habit:A vining plant that can climb or trail. It can be trained to grow on a trellis or allowed to cascade from a hanging basket.

Care Tips:

Light: Bright, indirect light. Some direct morning sun is tolerated.

Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity. Misting or using a pebble tray can help increase humidity levels.

Temperature: Ideal temperature range is 65-80°F (18-27°C). Protect from cold drafts.

Soil: Well-draining potting mix. A mix designed for succulents or cacti is suitable.

Fertilizer: Feed with a organic liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season.

Additional Information:

Hoyas are epiphytes in their natural habitat, meaning they grow on other plants but are not parasitic.

They can be slow to bloom, sometimes taking a few years to mature enough to produce flowers.

Hoya carnosa is relatively pest and disease resistant.

It is toxic to pets if ingested.

With proper care, Hoya carnosa can thrive indoors and reward you with its beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers for many years.