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.          

Crocosmia

The 7 Species of corms in this south African iris family genus are widely cultivated as ornamental though some of them are considered weeds in various parts of the world. They have long sword-shaped  leaves, sometimes conspicuously veined or pleated that may be near evergreen in mild climates.Flowering  occurs mianly during summer and autumn when arching sprays of usually 6-petalled flowers in bright orange and red shades appear. Cultivars cover a wide color range from yellow  to rusty brown and they last well when cut. The genus name  derived from greek krokos (saffron) and osme (smell) was given because the classifying botanist noticed a saffron-like scent when water was spilt on a dried specimen. They are commonly known as montbretia. 

CULTIVATION

Surprisingly hardy, they are easily grown  in full or half sun moist-drained soil. In areas where the soil freezes the corms may be stored dry over winter and replanted in spring. Propagate from offsets which are often numerous.             

Colhicum

This  genus of around 45 species of corms is found from eastern Europe to northern Africa and eastwards to China. Although not related to the true crocuses, the common name autumn crocus is an apt description of the habit  and appearance of many of the species. The are dormant and leafless  in summer. Their flowers have 6 petals, usually in 2 whorls and start to appear from early autumn before the foliage develops. Double flowered forms are available. This genus is famous as the source of the cancer treatment drug cochineal a mutagen that affects cell division it is sometime use by plant breeders to produce new cultivars.

CULTIVATION

Hardy and adaptable plants that are great favorites with enthusiasts of rockery gardens,  Colchicum species thrive in zones that have 4 distinct seasons. Some species require a hot dry summer to flower well but most plants are happy in any fertile well-drained soil in either full or half sun. they alson do well in containers.

SCABIOSA

An unpleasent sounding name, scabiosa is derived from scabies a Latin  word for scurf or mange the itchiness of which was said to be relieved by rubbing the affected area with the leaves of these plants. The genus, a member of the teasel family (Dipsacaceae), is composed of around 80 spaces of annuals and perennials found from Europe and north Africa to Japan.

CULTIVATION

The Plants are hardy and easily grown in any sunny position with moderately fertile, moist, free draining slightlu alkaline soil. deadhead to  prolong flowering, the annuals are raised from seed and the perennials can be propagated from seed from basal cutting or by division.

MAGNOLIA

A member of Magnolia family this large and varied genus consists of around 100 species of deciduous and evergreen trees as well as countless cultivars, and occurs naturally throughout Asia and North America. the Leaves are usually  large, oval and smooth edged. The handsome flowers are generally large, fragrant and solitary ad vary in shape from almost flat and saucer-like to a narrow goblet shape. They occur in shade of white, pink, yellow or purple. The fruits that follow are often pink or red, cone-like, showy clusters, with colorful seeds. Magnolia takes its name from the French botanist Pierre Magnol (1683-1715).

CULTIVATION

Generally fast growing, magnolias prefer light shade and sheltered spots in the garden away from the wind and late frosts. Although some species are lime tolerant, most prefer well drained acid soils that are rich in humus. propagate from cutting summer by sowing seed in autumn or by grafting in winter.

LEWISIA

This genus consists of around 19 species of exquisite, Semi-succulent, evergreen and deciduous, alpine and sub alpine perennials of the portulaca family (Portulacaeae). They are found in the rocky mountains from New Mexico in U.S.A to southern Canada and usually form rosettes or tufts of fleshy, linear, Lance or spatula-shaped leaves. 

CULTIVATION

Most species have deep taproots and prefer a gritty, humus-rich, free-draining soil that remains moist in the growing season but is otherwise dry. The deciduous species generally only reproduce from seed, but evergreen plants can be propagated from seed or offsets.

MECONOPSIS

Found mainly in the Himalayan  region, this genus of more than 40 species is a member of the Papaveraceae family and includes annuals, biennials and short lived perennial..Compact mounding  plants they have core hairy leaves that are simple, round or lobed and deeply toothed. The attractive saucer-to cup-shaped flowers usually grow singly on short or tall stems , open in spring or summer and have papery petals with contrails cluster of stamens. 

CULTIVATION

Most species grow best in woodland conditions in a cool temperature climate  with reliable rainfall.

Hibiscus

This Genus over 200 annual or perennial herbs, shrubs or trees is found throughout warm-temperate,  subtropical, and tropical regions of the world. the Species are mostly grown for their large, open, bell shaped flowers, which  grow as singe flowers or in clusters. They are made up of 5 overlapping petals with central column of fused stamens surrounded b a darker coloring in the center of the flower. Colors include  white, yellow and orange  as well as dramatic pinks, purples and reds. The beautifull are followed by a fruit capsule. The light dark green  simple leaves grow alternately on the stem and take the shape of an outspread hand. Hibiscus Breckenridge is the state of flower of Hawaii.

CULTIVATION

Most species of  hibiscus are susceptible to drought and are frost tender, needing a position in full sun with a rich and moist soil.  The annuals are best grown from seed, while perennial varieties of hibiscus are propagated from seed or by division.

Mandevilla

This large genus   from south and central America consists of around 120 species of mainly tuberous-rooted twining vines, and some perennials and sub shrubs. Rather beautiful fast growing climbers, they have large, deep green, elliptical to lance shaped leaves with prominent drip tips. They produce large numbers of showy trumpet-shaped flowers through out the warmer months  which makes them popular plants for the garden trellis or arch. The 5-lobed flowers grow singly on long stems, and are often large, fragrant in some species  and occur in white to cream and various shades of pink. The genus Mandevilla was named for the nineteenth century British diplomat and gardener Henry Mandevill.

Mandevilla species should be watered regularly during the growth period and    blooming season. Reduce watering during autumn and  keep to bare minimum  during winter.                                                                                          

CULTIVATION

Only few species will tolerate frost the majority generally preferring  a mild to warm climate, dappled sunlight and moist, humus-rich  well drained soil. Occasional feeding will produce  lush foliage but will lead to rampant growth. Propagate from seed in spring or from cuttings in spring or summer.

Osteospermum

Found  mainly in Southern Africa, this genus consists of some 70 species of annuals, perennials, and  subshrubs of the daisy  family (Asteracease). The plants  are generally low, spreading or mounding in growth habit with simple, broadly toothed, elliptical  to spatula-shaped leaves. Ostepermum plants are valued for the cheerful carpets of flowers they provide through warmer months. The flowers are daisylike: a large outer ring of petallike ray florets, mainly pink, purple or white surrounds a central disc, often an unusual purple-bearing  anthers which add to the plant beauty.

CULTIVATION

Most species will tolerate only light frosts and prefer a sunny position in light well drained soil. Avoid over-watering as this can lead to straggly growth.Pinching back and deadheading keeps the plants compact. Propagate  annuals from seed and perennials from tip cuttings.