Annette Hird 
Scotch Heather is a beautiful flowering shrub that is native to Europe and is often found growing wild on the Scottish moors. Its botanical name is Calluna vulgaris and it’s the only species in the Calluna genus. Surprisingly, however, there are around 500 cultivars of this species that have been bred over the years. Gardeners … Read more
Heather is a delightful small woody shrub that hails from the moors of Scotland. In late summer and fall, each small bush is adorned with masses of small bell-shaped flowers. However, in the northern hemisphere, heathers can bloom from late July right through until November. The heather flower prefers acidic soil that is well-drained but … Read more
There are around 30 different species of cosmos in total. However, only three of these species are commonly grown. From these three species, numerous cultivars and hybrids have been produced to increase the flower colors and other important features of these gorgeous summer flowers. To start off with, we’re going to have a look at … Read more
Cosmos are delicate annual daisy-like flowers that brighten your yard with glorious color all summer. The gorgeous blooms are a favorite with bees and butterflies and will attract these important pollinators to your garden in early summer. Even the feathery leaves and slender stems are attractive and will add softness to your garden. Cosmos flowers … Read more
The Easter cactus, unlike other so-called holiday cacti, flowers in spring and that’s why it’s called an Easter cactus or spring cactus. There appears to be general confusion about the correct botanical name for this particular plant. Scientific references refer to it as Hatiora gaertneri, Schlumbergera gaertneri or Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri. No wonder people get confused … Read more
Graptosedum succulents are all hybrids. Therefore, you might see them listed as xGraptosedum. The “x” denotes that the plant is not a true species, but rather a cross between two different species. In this case, Graptosedums are a cross between the genera Graptopetalum and Sedum. The reason that plant breeders have crossed these two genera … Read more
All Graptosedum succulents are hybrids by crossing two other succulent species. You may also see them shown as xGraptosedum. The “x” signifies that the plant is a hybrid cross and not a pure species that can be found in a native habitat. In general, Graptosedums are a cross between species from the Graptopetalum genus as … Read more
Forget-me-nots are such delightful plants that you’ll want to grow a few different varieties in your garden to add some color and cheerfulness to your yard. These pretty plants can even be grown in pots to adorn your front entry or your outdoor entertaining area. Here are the most common true species of forget-me-nots and … Read more
The Forget-me-not (Scorpion grasses) is a delightful spring flowering plant that is often used in borders or in cottage gardens. This plant is ideal for growing among other early spring flowers such as daffodils and tulips as a colorful ground cover. In general, forget-me-nots will bloom in late spring and early summer with some plant … Read more
Growing tulips is so rewarding. There are so many different types of tulips that you can grow, that it would be impossible to give you a complete list. It becomes even more challenging when tulips are grouped into various divisions according to their bloom time, flower shape, and stem height. Therefore, we’ve decided to showcase … Read more