ARMERIA

This genus comprises around 80 spices of herbaceous and shrubby perennials found in Eurasia, North Africa, and the American Pacific coast. They form dense cushion-like clumps of simple linear leaves above which in spring and summer rounded heads of tiny flowers are borne on slender stems.Flowers may be white, pink, or nearly red. The genus was named Armeria, the Roman word for Dianthus (or carnation), because of a supposed resemblance between the 2 genera, though in fact they are not from the same family. The common name of Armeria is thrift - that is, to thrive- which refers to the plant`s ability to grow well even under harsh conditions.




CULTIVATION


Knowns as coastal plants, the species actully occur in a wide range of envoirnments and are easily cultivated, being especially at home in rockeries. Most are quite hardy and prefer moist well-drained soil and a position in full or half sun.Propagate by seed, cuttings, or the careful division of well-established clumps.


Top Tip


A favorite of the cottage garden,Armeria flowers can also be used fresh or dried in floral arrangements.Try tall-stemmed brightly colored cultivares such as `bee`s Ruby`.

ARISTOLOCHIA

This genus contains about 300 species and is a member of the Artistolochiaceae (birth-wort) fmaily. Plants range from strong climber to perennails, both deciduous and evergreen, and are found throughout tropical and temperate regions. Stems are usually thick and fissured, and leaves are often heart-shaped and vary from smooth-edged to lobed. The weird, contorted, tubular flowers are mottled in shades of pink, purple, brown, and ivory; they range in size from very small to gigantic and many have an offensive odor. Insects, lured to the flowers by the strong odor, act as a medium for pollination as they become dusted with pollen while in the flower's bladder-like interior. The common name, birthwort, comes from the herbal use of some species as an aid during childbirth.


CULTIVATION


Many of the vigorous climbers are not very hardy, and they are better suited to the green-house in cooler regions. Where suitable, grow outdoors in sun or part-shade in a rich well-drained oil. Climbers require support and can be pruned in late winter. Propagate from soft-wood cuttings, division, or seed.


Top Tip


As many of these plants have malodorous flowers, and some also have leaves that give off an unpleasant odor when crushed or bruised, select a planting position away from high traffic and entertaining areas.

ARISAEMA

This genus of about 150 tuberous perennials is a member of the Araceae (arum) family. Species are found in Africa, North America, and Asia, usually growing in moist woodland. Their ornamental leaves and stems and bizarre flowers make them interesting garden subjects. Leaves may be compound or divided and the stems are often mottled in pink to purplish shades. The large hooded flower spathes may be yellow, green, brown, red, or pink, striped or mottled. They surround the spadix, a central column of small true flowers, which varies from short and club like to long and drooping. Dense clusters of orange-red berries form on the spadix following the flowers.


CULTIVATION


Grow frost-tolerant species in a sheltered, semi-shaped, or woodland position in a moist, cool, peaty soil. Cover with protective mulch over winter and guard from slugs. Tropical species grown in the greenhouse require a deep pot in an equal mix of leaf mould, grit, and slightly acid loam. Propagate from seed or division of the tubers. 


Top Tip


These plants are generally fairly hardy and can be planted outdoors in light or dappled shade. Provide ample water during the growing season. Protect from slugs.

ARGYRNTHEMUM

Often treated as  perennials, the 24 or so members of this genus from the Canary Islands and Madeira are evergreen shrubs, part of the huge daisy family. Most species are low spreading, though some are erect, and have rather crowded leaves clustered at the tips of brittle stems; the leaves vary from coarsely toothed to deeply dissected, and have a slightly aromatic or bitter smell when bruised. Flowers rise above the foliage, borne on long stems. Of the numerous cultivars, the majority have double or semi-double flower heads in shades varying from white through pink to rose-purple. In the original 'single' forms, each head consists of a ring of ray florets around an eye of tiny yellow disc florets. Flowers appear over a long season. 


CULTIVATION


Argyranthemum plants are marginally frost hardy and in cold climates need to be brought under shelter over winter. For permanent out-door use they prefer a temperate climate. Soil should be very well drained and not too rich, and a sunny position is essential. Propagate from tip cuttings in autumn for a spring and summer display.


Top Tip


Young plants can be shaped by gently pinching out growing tips; pruning lanky old plants should be done with caution as they often die if cut back hard.

ARCTOTIS

Known as the African daisy, this genus is naturally occurring from the southern tip of Africa northwards to Angola. It consists of around 50 species of low-spreading annuals and perennials that often produce masses of large and brighly colored flowerheads. The leaves are simple, usually lance-shaped, and frequently have felted undersides. For much of the year in mild climates the daisy-like flowers top the foliage, appearing in a wide range of colors. Modern strains now cover most of the color spectrum except blue. The name Arctotis comes from the Greek and means bear's ear, which is what the individual petals on the flower are though to resemble.


CULTIVATION


African daisies thrive in light well-drained soil, and full sun. They are drought tolerant but flower much more heavily if watered well during the growing season. Propagation is by seem, through the perennial species grow readily from cuttings of the non-flowering stems.


Top Tip


If you deadhead the flowers after the first flush of summer blooms, flowering will continue for a longer period. Arctotis plants need lots of sun, but do not tolerate very hot or humid conditions.

ACONITUM

Belonging to the buttercup family, this genus contains about 100 species of mostly tuberous biennials and perennials occurring primarily in the northern temperate zones.completely dormant over winter, they quickly develop a clump of deeply lobed leaves from which emerge erect flower stems bearing clusters of pendulous, hooded, or helmet-shaped flowers, usually white,creamy yellow, or mauve-blue to purple in color. The flowering  season may last from summer to autumn. The plants`s sap contains several highly toxic alkaloids, principally aconitine, which has a long history of deliberate use as a poison, especially in animal traps, hence the common names of the genus: wolfsbane and badgers`s bane. Aconitine is used medicinally in controlled doses to slow the heart rate.

CULTIVATION

Species in this genus are mostly very hardy and easily grown in full or half sun.The soil should be miost,humus-rich, and well-drained,Take care when cutting flowerheads, as the foliage may irritate the skin.Propagate these plants by division when dormant or raise from seed.

Top Tip

The genus name Aconitum comes from Greek and can be translated as ''unconquerable poison.''This plant is very toxic; use caution when handling it,especially around children.

AECHMEA

Within this large genus of approximately 240 species and 500 cultivars there is a wonderful variety of from,size, and color.The species are mostly epiphytic in their natural envoirment--that is, they grow on another plant for support--and are found mainly in the humid regions of Central America down to the cooler areas of southern Brazil and Argentina.The rosette-forming foilage ranges in color from shiny green to silver, and the edges of the leaves have teeth that vary from very fine to almost vicious.Their dramatic spear-like flowerheads can vary from short to elongated, and many have bright red bracts beneath the flower branches that attract hummingbirds as pollinators.

CULTIVATION

an extermely popular  genus, plants are mostly grown in cultivation in pots with some form of shade.In mild areas they are best grown indoors; outdoors they need a moist humusrich soil.Propagation is mainly by offsets, but some species can be raised from seed.

Top Tip

These plants need plenty of  water during the growing  season -- keep the central cup filled with water, and fertilize monthly with a mixture that is low in nitrogen.

AGAPANTHUS

Commonly known as the lily-of-the-Nile, this is a southern African genus of just 10 species of fleshy-rooted perenials. They have long, strappy, fleshy leaves that form dense clumps of energreen or deciduous foliage. Tall stems bear blue flowers that are bell-shaped or tubular. In frost-freee climates, flowers of evergreens appear over a long season, else-where only in summer. This genus makes an ideal border plant due to its narrow upright shape, and dwarf forms are superb in rockeries of containers. In Greek, Agapanthus means the flower of love, altough the reason for this name is nuclear.

CULTIVATION

Agapanthus species are easily grown in full sun or part-shade in any well-drained soil. They are hardy plants and will withstand drought and poor soil, although these situations will affect flower production. Propagate by division in winter or from seed.

Top Tip

Protect Agapanthus species from slugs and snails, which can damage young plants. They also need regular watering in spring and summer, as well as loamy soil.

AGASTACHE

A member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), this genus of 20 speicies of aromatic upright or spreading perennials is found in North America, Japan, and nearby parts of China. The leaves are usually lance- to heart-shaped with finely lobed or toothed edges. The small flowers are borne in terminal spikes, which vary in length, depending on the species. The flowers appear in summer, and may be white, pink, mauve-blue, or purple, though cultivars occur in a wider color range. Several species have a mint-like flavor and are used in herbal teas or as mint substitutes. Most species have mildly sedating and pain relieving effects and have been used medicinally wherever they occur.

CULTIVATION

Although intolerant of repeated hard frosts, these plants grow quickly and can be treated as annuals in cold areas. All species can be easily grown in any sunny position with good, moist, well-drained soil. Propagate from basal cuttings of non-flowering stems or seed. Deadhead old flowers so that reblooming will take place later in the season.

Top Tip

Agastache plants are a welcome addition to mixed borders and herb gardens. They can also be successfully grown as container plants indoors.

ALLIUM

This genus of around 700 species of bulbous perennials and biennials includes many familiar plants such as the onion, leek, chive, garlic, and ornamental onion. Allium is the type genus for its family, the Allianceae, and occurs in dry areas of the Northern Hemisphere. The foliage may be fine and grassy, strappy, or hollow and tubular. The flowers are generally borne in rounded heads stop long stems, and are often brightly colored. Many species are famed for their taste and pungency, and form vital ingredients in the world's cuisines. Some, especially garlic, have a long history in herbal medicine and folklore, and the ornamental species are not without an air of mystery, too. In Europea traditions Allium moly was thought to be a protection against demons, and Homer attributed to it magical properties that allowed Ulysses to enter Circe's lair.

CULTIVATION

Most  alliums thrive in fairly light soil in a sunny well-drained position. Ample water is mportant during foliage development and flowering but thereafter the plants can be allowed to dry oll. Propagate by gathering offsets and bulbils or from seed.

Top Tip

Don't worry that by planting garlic or onion species in the garden their distinctive scent will soon take over. The pungent aroma is usually only noticeable when the leaves are crushed or bruised.

ALSTROEMERIA

Commonly called Peruvian lily or lily of the Incas, this genus of around 50 species of fleshy rooted perennials is found in South America, often at altitude. Celebrated for their long-lasting beautifully marked flowers, they are equally notorious for their vigorous roots and self-sowing nature. At least 1 species, Alstroemeria psittacina, is considered a weed in some areas. The leaves are mid-green, usually lance-shaped, and slightly twisted. Tall wiry stems terminate in a many-flowered head of 6-petalled lily-like blooms that occur in many shades. The famous botanist Linnaeus named the genus after one of his pupils, Claus von Alstroemer (1736-1794), who sent him the seeds in 175.3 from Spain.

CULTIVATION

Some species can be a little frost tender, which can be managed by insulating the roots with mulch. However, most are easily grown in any sunny position with moderately fertile well-drained soil that can be kept moist during the flowering season. Propagate by division when dormant or from seed.

Top Tip

Alstroemeria plants need plenty of sunlight and shelter to thrive. Protect from strong wind. They do well planned in a clump in a border and with herbaceous perennials.

AMARANTHUS

There are about about 60 species of weedy annuals and short-lived perennials in this exotic-looking genus, which is a member of the Amaranthacease family. They have worldwide distribution, often being found in wasteland areas. Specie range in form from prostrate to tall, with unusual, long, often drooping tassels of many small blood red or green flowers. Follage can be just as striking, ranging in color from red to god to green. Individual flowers are either male or female, and each sex may be borne on separate plants. Some species are cultivated as leaf or grain crops in tropical areas, while those with dramatic flowers or colorful foliage are ideal for summer bedding displays, in containers and in hanging baskets.

CULTIVATION

Amaranthus are easily grown in well-drained fertile soil in full sun. Protect tall varieties from strong wind. In cooler climates sow seed under glass in early spring and plant out after the danger of frosts has passed. In warmer areas seed can be sown outdoors later in the season.

Top Tip

Plenty of sun and a sheltered site will ensure healthy and vigorous plants. Prune when young to promote growth, and water regularly during dry periods to prolong the flowering season.

AMELANCHIER

This genus consists of 30 or so species of  deciduous shrubs and small trees valued for thier attractive white spring blossom; all but 2 species are native to North America and Mexico.They have smallish oval or elliptical leaves on slender stalks,often downy beneath  and with  finely toothed margins. The starshaped  flowers, each with 5 narrow petals, are borne in small sprays thats create clouds of pretty white blooms. This attractive, if brief, fearture makes them suitable as ornamental plants; the silvery down on the leaves and the autumn foliage color of some species is equally as appealing. Fruits are edible when ripe and are an important food for wildlife, especially birds: hence the common name service berry.

CULTIVATION

Amelanchier species are mostly woodland plants that prefer moist sheltered sites and are most effective when planted against a backdrop of darker foliage. They are prone to the same pests and disease as apples and pears, including the dreaded fireblight.Propagation is normally from seed; cultivars are grafted.

Top Tip

These handsome plants are most at home in woodland situations, though certain species tolerate boggy ground and do well at the edge of a pond or stream.

ANEMONE

Widespread in the temperate regions of both hemispheres, this buttercup family (Ranunculaceae) genus encompasses around 120 species of perennials.A large and versatile group, their colorful, wide-open, bowl-shaped flowers are generally borne on wiry stems that hold them well above the clumps of finely divided foliage appears but some continue into early summer and a few bloom in autumn. Most likly the genus name is derived from the Greek anemos, meaning wind, hence its common name windflower, but some consider it to come from Naamen, a variation on the name Adonis. According to legend, it was his blood that gave Anemone coronaria its red flowers.

CULTIVATION

Some species, appropriately known as wood anemones, prefer woodland conditions with dappled shade but most are happy in a sunny perennial or flower border with either by division in winter when dormant or, in the case of the strains grown as annuals, by seed.

Top Tip

Anemones can be divided into 2 main groups: tuberous and rhizmatous types that flower mainly in spring; and those roots that flower in autumn.

ANIGOZANTHOS

This genus contains 11 species of evergreen clump-forming perennials, all of which are confined naturally to southwestern Australia. The foliage is usually dark green and varies from grassy to iris-like, with sword-shaped leaves. Tubular-shaped firry blooms thought to resemble a kangaroo`s paw are borne on slender branching stems,usully during the warmer months. Flowers occur in green and deeper shades of gold , pink, red, and russet brown,depending on the species. They make excellent cut flowers as they last well when cut, and many new varieties have been developed with the florist trade in mind. A very diffrent use for flowers of Anigozanthos plants is the addition of floral extracts to shampoos and conditioners.

CULTIVATION

Plants  in a sunny position with good drainage.Most plants perform better if watered well during the growing season but will tolerate drought. Blackened foliage is a sign of ink disease, which can be very damaging,as can slugs and snails.Propagation is most often by division.Species may be raised from seed.

Top Tip

These plants are highly valued for use as cut flowers, though most will grow well outdoors in frost-free regions.Plant in a border and water well to porolong flowering over summer.

ACHILLEA

This genus of 100-odd species of clumping or mat-forming perennial plants is a member of the large Asteraceae (daisy) family. Achillea species grow throughout Europe and northern and western Asia in a range of habitats including alpine. Some species can be invasive. The foliage is usually finely divided with a fern-like appearance and is often aromatic. The daisy-like flowerheads are flattened or rounded, comprising numerous small flowers in white, pale cream, lemon, and pink. A number of cultivars are available in brighter shades, and these make excellent border plants. The genus is named after Achilles, the hero of Greek mythology, who is said to have known of the plant's wound-healing qualities.

CULTIVATION

Most species are easily grown in well-drained soil in full sun. They can tolerate quite poor conditions and are fairly frost hardy. Alpine and dwarf species require perfect drainage and protection from winter rain if downy-leaved. Propagation is by division or seed.

Top Tip

Achillea are hardy plants that will multiply rapidly. After the flowers have died down in winter, prune the clumps back to stimulate strong regrowth in spring.

ACACIA

The genus Acacia consists of at least 1,200 species of which over 900 are Australlian; its other major centers are Africa and warmer parts of the Ameias. In Australia, they are invariably known as wattles. Most are shrubs or small to medium-sized tress, displaying a wide range of leaf shapes and sizes, some quite bizarre. Flowers are small and densely crowded into spikes; throughout winter or spring they form an abundant display of blossom, often a brilliant golden yellow. In African and some tropical Aerican species, sharp spines range along the branches. These may be extremely large and fierce-looking and, in a few species, the spines are much thicker than the branch-lets that bear them.

CULTIVATION

Most acacias are fast growers and are useful plants for restoring vegetation to denuded areas, as well as being suitable for ornamental or landscape use-through their quick growth habits is offset by a short life. They require well-drained soil and full sun. If disease sets in, replacing the plants may be the best solution. Propagation is mostly from seed.

Top Tip

Most acacias do not take kindly to excessive pruning, as this causes gum exudation and can also open the way for insect ad fungal attack.

ABUTILON

This genus belonging to the mallow family is represented in most warm parts of the world, but the majority of its 150 species are from South or Central America; the remainder are mainly from Australia and Africa.Most are shrubs with slender tough_barked  twigs but a few are annuals,perennials, or even small trees.Leaves vary from heart_shaped to jaggedly lobed, their margins toothed in most species: twigs and leaves may be clothed with bristly haris. The common name Chinese lantern alludes to the pretty, pendent, bell-shaped flowers seen in many species; these can appear in shade ranging from white and pale pink to yellow, range, and deep bronzy red.

CULTIVATION

These plants are easily grown in the garden or indoors in pots in a well-lit position. They like well-drained soil of moderate fertility, in light shade or bright sun. In cool climates keep plants indoors until the worst frosts are past, and then plant out for a great summer display. Propagate from tip cuttings in late summer.   

Top Tip                                                                                                 

Prune off leading shotts in late winter if a compact form is desired, but note     that some cultivars display their blooms best on long arching branches.