Japanese kerria, Kerria japonica

Japanese Kerria is a deciduous shrub native to China and Japan, known for its bright yellow, rose-like flowers. It's a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and ease of care.

Key Characteristics:

Flowers: Bright yellow, double or single, bloom in spring.
Leaves: Green, serrated, and oval-shaped.
Stems: Slender, arching, and green throughout the year.
Growth Habit: Upright, rounded shrub that can reach 6-8 feet tall and wide.
Hardiness: Hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.
Sun Tolerance: Prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.
Soil Preference: Prefers well-drained soil.
Propagation: By cuttings or division.

Notable Cultivars:

Pleniflora: Double-flowered cultivar with large, fluffy blooms.
Picta: Variegated leaves with yellow and green markings.
Golden Guinea: Double-flowered cultivar with larger, darker yellow blooms.

Care and Maintenance:

Pruning: Prune immediately after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Fertilizing: Fertilize annually in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases.

Japanese Kerria is a beautiful and versatile shrub that can add a touch of color and interest to any garden. Its bright yellow flowers, green stems, and easy care make it a popular choice for landscape plantings.

Japanese primrose, Primula sieboldii

Description

Native to: East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and parts of China.
Type: Perennial herb.
Height: Typically grows 6-12 inches tall.
Leaves: Rosette of rounded, hairy, and often scalloped leaves.
Flowers: Delicate, saucer-shaped blooms in various colors like purple, pink, white, or combinations. They are often fragrant.
Blooming period: Late spring to early summer.

Growing Conditions

Light: Prefers partial shade.
Soil: Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil with a neutral to acidic pH.
Water: Regular watering, especially during dry periods.
Hardiness: Hardy in most climates, going dormant in extreme heat.

Care

Low maintenance: Once established.
Propagation: By division or seeds.
Pests and diseases: Relatively resistant, but watch for aphids, leafhoppers, vine weevils, and slugs.

Uses

Ornamental: Popular for its charming appearance in gardens, borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Woodland gardens: Thrives in shady, woodland settings.
Cut flowers: Beautiful addition to bouquets.

Additional Information

Award-winning: Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.
Self-seeding: Can spread easily without becoming invasive.
Deer resistant: Generally not bothered by deer.
Summer dormancy: Goes dormant in hot, dry summers.

American groundnut, Apios americana

Photo by: By Bob Richmond from Knoxville TN, USA - apios3075, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=40660063

The American groundnut (Apios americana), also known as hopniss, Indian potato, potato bean, or wild bean, is a perennial vine native to eastern North America. It has a long history of being used as a food source by Native Americans and early European settlers. Here are some complete facts about the American groundnut:

Botanical Classification

Scientific Name: Apios americana
Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
Genus: Apios
Common Names: American groundnut, hopniss, Indian potato, potato bean, wild bean

Description

Growth Habit: The American groundnut is a twining vine that can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) in length. It typically climbs on other vegetation or structures.
Leaves: The plant has compound leaves with 5-7 oval-shaped leaflets arranged in an alternate pattern.
Flowers: The flowers are small, fragrant, and typically pink, purple, or reddish-brown. They are pea-like in appearance and grow in clusters.
Roots/Tubers: The plant produces edible tubers that resemble small potatoes. These tubers can vary in size from about 1-2 inches in diameter, though they can grow much larger in ideal conditions. The tubers are connected by rhizomes, which can be dug up and replanted.

Habitat and Distribution

Native Range: Eastern and central North America, from Canada to the southern United States.
Preferred Habitat: The plant thrives in moist, fertile soils, often found along riverbanks, in wetlands, and in forests. It prefers partial shade but can also grow in full sun.

Edibility and Nutritional Value

Tubers: The tubers are the most commonly consumed part of the plant. They can be eaten raw, boiled, roasted, or fried, and have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. The tubers are rich in carbohydrates and contain a higher protein content than most other root vegetables (approximately 15%).
Seeds: The seeds, which develop in pods, can also be eaten and are rich in protein. They are usually boiled or roasted.
Nutritional Content: The American groundnut is a good source of complex carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and essential minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Native American Use: Native American tribes, including the Wampanoag, Cherokee, and others, traditionally cultivated and consumed the tubers as a staple food. The plant was also used in traditional medicine for various ailments.
Colonial Use: Early European settlers in North America learned about the American groundnut from Native Americans and relied on it as a food source, especially during times of scarcity.

Ecological Importance

Pollinators: The flowers of the American groundnut attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Nitrogen Fixation: As a member of the legume family, Apios americana has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil through a symbiotic relationship with bacteria in its root nodules. This helps enrich the soil, making it beneficial for other plants growing nearby.

Cultivation and Propagation

Growing Conditions: The American groundnut is relatively easy to cultivate and can be grown from tubers or seeds. It prefers well-drained, loamy soil with plenty of organic matter.
Propagation: The plant is commonly propagated by planting its tubers, which will sprout and grow into new vines. It can also be grown from seeds, though this method is less common.

Potential Uses and Research

Agricultural Potential: The American groundnut is being studied for its potential as a crop plant due to its high nutritional value, particularly its protein content, and its ability to grow in diverse environments.
Sustainability: As a perennial plant with nitrogen-fixing capabilities, the American groundnut is considered a sustainable crop option that could be integrated into polyculture systems.

Challenges

Tuber Yield: While the plant is nutritious, its tuber yield can be lower compared to other root crops like potatoes. Additionally, harvesting the tubers can be labor-intensive.
Cultivation: The plant has not been widely cultivated on a large scale, and more research is needed to optimize its growth and tuber production for commercial agriculture.

The American groundnut holds promise as a nutritious and sustainable food source, with deep historical roots and ecological benefits.

Trailing lobelia, Lobelia erinus

Lobelia erinus, commonly known as trailing lobelia or edging lobelia, is a popular ornamental plant prized for its vibrant, profuse blooms and versatility in gardens. Below are the key facts about Lobelia erinus:

Botanical Classification

Family: Campanulaceae (bellflower family)
Genus: Lobelia
Species: Lobelia erinus
Common Names: Trailing lobelia, edging lobelia, garden lobelia, blue lobelia

Origin and Habitat

Native Range: Southern Africa, specifically in regions of Malawi, Namibia, and South Africa.
Natural Habitat: Found in grasslands, slopes, and forest edges, where it grows in well-drained soils.

Description

Growth Habit: Lobelia erinus is a small, tender perennial often grown as an annual. It has a low, spreading growth habit, forming mounds or cascading over edges.
Size: Typically grows 10–25 cm (4–10 inches) tall and can spread about 15–30 cm (6–12 inches) wide.
Leaves: Small, oblong to lance-shaped leaves with a slight serration along the edges. The leaves are usually bright green.
Flowers: The plant produces an abundance of small, tubular, two-lipped flowers. The most common color is bright blue, but cultivars exist in shades of white, pink, lavender, and purple. The flowers bloom continuously from late spring through early autumn.
Fruit: Produces small capsules containing numerous tiny seeds.

Cultivation

Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, it benefits from afternoon shade.
Soil Requirements: Thrives in well-drained, fertile soils rich in organic matter. It does not tolerate heavy, waterlogged soils.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture but should not be waterlogged. Drought stress can cause reduced flowering.
Fertilization: Benefits from regular feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, particularly during the blooming season.
Propagation: Typically propagated by seed, which is very fine and requires light to germinate. Seeds are usually sown in early spring indoors and then transplanted outdoors after the last frost.

Uses in Gardening

Container Gardening: Ideal for hanging baskets, window boxes, and containers where its trailing habit can be showcased.
Border Planting: Used as an edging plant in flower beds and borders due to its compact growth.
Groundcover: Can serve as a groundcover in small areas or rock gardens.
Companion Planting: Pairs well with other bedding plants like petunias, marigolds, and alyssum.

Varieties and Cultivars

There are numerous cultivars of Lobelia erinus, selected for flower color, growth habit, and size. Notable varieties include:
'Crystal Palace': Known for its deep blue flowers and bronze-colored foliage.
'Cambridge Blue': Features pale blue flowers.
'Riviera Series': Compact, early-blooming variety with various flower colors.
'Regatta Series': Known for its trailing habit, suitable for hanging baskets.

Environmental Impact and Conservation

Pollinators: Attracts bees and other pollinators, making it a valuable plant for pollinator gardens.
Invasiveness: Generally not invasive; it does not tend to naturalize outside cultivated areas.
Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free, but can be susceptible to aphids, slugs, and fungal diseases like powdery mildew if grown in overly humid or wet conditions.

Toxicity

Humans and Pets: Lobelia erinus contains alkaloids that are toxic if ingested in large quantities. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and more severe symptoms if consumed in large amounts, so it should be kept away from pets and children.

Lobelia erinus is celebrated for its brilliant and abundant flowers, making it a staple in ornamental gardening worldwide.

Common Fennel Foeniculum vulgare

Botanical Characteristics

Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)
Type: Hardy perennial herb, often grown as an annual in cooler climates
Origin: Mediterranean region
Height: Can reach up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall
Leaves: Finely dissected, feathery appearance, similar to dill
Flowers: Yellow, small, clustered in umbels ( individual flower stalks arise from about the same point; youngest flowers are at the center)
Seeds: Aromatic, used in cooking and for medicinal purposes

Varieties

Common fennel: Used primarily for its seeds and leaves.
Florence fennel (Finocchio): Grown for its enlarged, bulbous stem base, which is eaten as a vegetable.

Cultivation

Climate: Thrives in warm, sunny conditions. Tolerates drought once established.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil.
Propagation: Grown from seeds, sown directly in the garden in spring.
Care: Relatively low maintenance. Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods.

Culinary Uses

Leaves: Used fresh or dried for flavoring dishes like fish, seafood, salads, and soups.
Bulbs: Eaten raw or cooked, often used in salads or as a vegetable.
Seeds: Used whole or ground in various cuisines, including Italian, Indian, and Middle Eastern. Popular in breads, cakes, and as a flavoring for liqueurs.

Medicinal Uses

Fennel seeds have been used traditionally for digestive issues, bloating, and colic.

Contains essential oils with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Often used as a breath freshener and digestive aid.

Other Uses

Ornamental: Attractive foliage and flowers make it a suitable garden plant.
Wildlife: Attracts pollinators like butterflies and beneficial insects.

Cautions

Fennel can be invasive in some regions, so it's essential to manage its spread.

Some people may have allergies to fennel.

Kohlrabi The Underappreciated Cruciferous Gem

What is Kohlrabi?

A unique member of the Brassicaceae family, related to cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.

Known for its enlarged, edible stem that grows above ground, resembling a bulb.

Available in green and purple varieties, both with crisp, white flesh.

Taste and Texture

Mild, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of earthiness.

Crisp and juicy texture, similar to a cross between a cucumber and broccoli stem.

Nutritional Benefits

Packed with vitamins and minerals:

Excellent source of vitamin C.

Good source of potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, and manganese.

Contains antioxidants like anthocyanins (especially in purple varieties).

Low in calories and fat.

Growing Kohlrabi

A cool-season crop that thrives in spring and fall.

Relatively easy to grow in gardens.

Harvest when the bulb reaches desired size (usually 2-3 inches in diameter).

Leaves are also edible and can be cooked like other greens.

Culinary Uses

Versatile vegetable that can be eaten raw or cooked.

Popular in salads, slaws, and stir-fries.

Can be roasted, steamed, mashed, or pickled.

The greens can be sautéed or added to soups.

Fun Facts

The name "kohlrabi" comes from the German words "kohl" (cabbage) and "rabi" (turnip).

Kohlrabi is a sustainable crop with a relatively short growing season.

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

In conclusion, kohlrabi is a nutritious and delicious vegetable that deserves more attention. Its unique taste and versatility make it a great addition to any diet. Give it a try and discover a new favorite!

Chinese Fringetree, Chionanthus retusus

Description

Native to: Eastern and central China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.
Type: Deciduous shrub or small to medium-sized tree.
Size: Typically grows 15-20 feet tall and wide, but can reach 30-40 feet under optimal conditions.
Leaves: Lustrous, leathery, green leaves with an elliptic to ovate shape.
Flowers: Showy, fragrant, white, fringe-like clusters that bloom in spring. Male plants have showier flowers, while female plants produce fruit.
Fruit: Small, dark blue drupes that provide food for birds and mammals.
Bark: Thick and fissured on mature trees.
Growth rate: Slow-growing, typically 4-10 inches per year.

Cultivation

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Adaptable to various soil types but prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Water:Tolerates moderate drought but benefits from occasional irrigation during extended dry periods.
Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Pests and diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. Deer can be a problem.

Uses

Ornamental: Highly prized for its beautiful spring blooms. Can be used as a specimen tree, in mixed shrub borders, or as a multi-stemmed shrub.
Wildlife: Provides food for birds and mammals through its fruit.

Additional Notes

Chinese fringetree is often considered superior to its North American cousin, the American fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus), due to its more graceful form and earlier leafing out.

It can show variation in growth habit depending on its geographic origin. Propagation can be done through seeds, cuttings, or layering.