CAMPANULA

Widespread in the northern temperate zones, Campanula is made up of around 300 species of annuals, blennials, and perennials, and is the type genus for the bellflower family (Campanulaceae). Growth habit and size varies, but the species can be divided into 3 broad groups: trailing types suitable for rockeries; low mounding forms whose flowers are among the foliage; and those with a basal foliage clump and tall upright flower stems. The leaves are mostly lance-to heart-shaped and nearly always have toothed or lobed edges. The flowers, usually bell-shaped, have 5 petals or lobes that are often reflexed at the tips. Named from the Latin campana (bell), species have been cultivated since medieval times and were once used medicinally.


CULTIVATION


Mostly very hardy, Campanula species grow in sun or partial shade and do best in humus-rich well-drained soil. Rockery types need grittier soil; tall varieties may need staking. Propagate by division, from cuttings, or from seed as appropriate for the growth form. Cut back after flowering to encourage further growth.


Top Tip


Campanula species thrive on plenty of sunshine. Although they are hardy and can handle the cold, they require excellent drainage for best results.

CAMELLIA

Well-loved throughout the world for their undoubted beauty, this genus contains nearly 300 evergreen shrubs or small trees, as well as innumerable cultivars. They are native to the mountainous regions of eastern Asia, which may yet produce new species. Camellias have glossy, mid-to dark green, toothed leaves and bear short-stalked flowers that bloom during the colder months, many in mid-winter when the plants are semi-dormant. Of the many cultivars, most adopt a formal, upright, shrubby stance, though smaller, bushy, less formal cultivars are becoming increasingly popular. There are camellias for all situations, be it a formal garden or a woodland setting. Camellia japonica is the state flower of Alabama.


CULTIVATION


Plant camellia in late autumn and winter, with-holding nutrition and additional water during this time. Shaded or semi-shaded positions, acid to neutral soils, dry winters, and wet summers suitthe majority. A freely draining site and purpose-designed potting mixes are essential for all species. Propagate by grafting, or from cuttings in late summer to winter.


Top Tip


As the sun and wind can damage camellia petals, causing unsightly brown marks, these plants do best if sited in a spot with some protection from the elements.

CAMASSIA

This genus of 5 species of bulbs belongs to the hyacinth family (Hyacinthaceae) and occurs mainly in western North America. The Latin name Camassia comes from the Native American name, which is usually transliterated as Quamash. The meaning of the name is unclear, but what is known is that the edible bulbs were an important element in the diet of the native peoples. As garden plants they are tough and very adaptable, and 1 species, Camassia leichtlinii, has been extensively developed into garden forms. Camassia species have long narrow leaves, and in late spring and early summer they produce heads of 6-petalled flowers atop strong stems, rather reminiscent of some of the Agapanthus species.


CULTIVATION


The plants are mostly frost hardy and easily grown in fertile well-drained soil that does not dry out. Plant in full or half sun. Species may be raised from seed, but these take up to 5 years to bloom. Most garden plants are cultivars and may be propagated by division during winter.


Top Tip


These bulbous perennials are ideal for borders in temperate climates. The dead flowers tend to persist on the plant, so they need to be trimmed off periodically.

CALOCHORTUS

This group of around 60 species of bulbs is found in the Americas, especially the western regions of the U.S.A. Variously known as mariposa tulip, sego lily, or fairy lantern, most species form a clump of narrow grassy leaves, and in spring and summer wiry stems carry flowers with 3 petals and 3 petallike sepals. The flowers, which cover a wide color range and are often beautifully marked, may be upright or nodding, and when upward facing they can be rather tulip-like. The genus name Calochortus comes from the Greek kallos (beautiful) and chortos (grass). In the past, Native Americans are the bulbs of certain species. Calochortus nuttallii is the state flower of Utah.


CULTIVATION


Although mainy very hardy, mariposa tulips require a climate that is warm and dry in summer. Plant in full sun in gritty free-draining soil-a rockery or raised bed is ideal. Water well from late winter on but allow them to dry off after flowering. Propagate by division in autumn or raise from seed.


Top Tip


Calochortus species are thought to be difficult to grow, but given plenty of summer sun, a good location, and enough water when growing, they will reward gardeners with lovely blooms.

ANTHURIUM

Well-loved as house plants everywhere, this genus is from the American tropics and encompasses around 900 species of evergreen perennials. The large leaves, which are elliptical, lance-shaped, or arrowhead-shaped,are usually held upright on stiff stems that emerge from a stout rootstock. The distinctive flower heads are made up of a flattened, shield-shaped, petal-like bract known as a spathe. This surrounds a protruding cylindrical spike embedded  with many tiny flowers, called the spadix. Both the spathe and spadix tend to be the same color, usually bright red, though other colors occur among the hybrids. Anthurium plants last well as cut flowers and are an important industry in Hawaii, where at the peak of production in the 1980s around 30 million flower stems were shipped to the world`s markets.

CULTIVATION

Anthurium species in the wild are mostly epiphytic, but do adapt well to greenhouse, container, and garden cultivation, thriving  in bright  humid conditions with moist humus-rich soil. Although completly intolerent of frost,they cope surprisingly well with cool conditions. Humidity and prolonged warmth, however, are required for flowering.

Top Tip

For successful indoor use, these tropical plants need bright light, warm moist conditions, and protection from drafts. Spray leaves with water several times daily.

CALLISTEMON

Commonly known as bottlebrush, this Australian genus of about 30 species of highly ornamental evergreen shrubs and small trees includes a large range of hybrids and cultivars.They have leathery linear or lanceshaped leaves arranged spirally around the stem, and new growth is often richly colored, usually pink or bornze. Callistemons are farmed for their showy flowers, which when massed together in terminal spikes form cylindrical bottlebrush-like shapes. The flowers usually open in spring and summer, and sometimes again in autumn, and are followed by long-lasting, round, woody seed capsules crowded into a cylindrical group along the stem. The main flower colors are generally in shades of pink, red, cream, or green, although many cultivars have extended this range even further. The flowers are highly attractive to small nectar-feeding birds. Callistemons offer a color-ful display over long periods and will fit into most landscape situations. Many of the larger species are suitable for use as street plantings in mild climates.


CULTIVATION


Most bottle brushes prefer moist, well-drained, slightly acid soil in a sunny position and are only marginally frost tolerant. All species respond well to pruning in the final days of flowering, which prevents the seed capsules from forming and stimulates bushier growth and a greater number of flowers next season. The lower branches of the larger species can be removed, leaving the top to branch out. Most species are propagated from the fine seed, though selected forms and cultivars are grown from half-hardened tip cuttings.


Top Tip


The colorful, sunloving, and adaptable bottlebrush looks particularly attractive in a shrub border or along the wall of a house. Monthly fertilizing is advised. 

CALENDULA

Found throughout the Mediterranean and on the nearby Atlantic Islands, this daisy family (Asteraceae) genus comprises around 20 species of somewhat aromatic annuals and perennials that are commonly known as marigolds. These small bushy plants have simple lance-to spatula-shaped leaves that are sometimes downy and toothed at their tips. Bright yellow to golden orange flowers, often double in the garden forms, appear over many months and may carry on through winter in mild areas. The name Calendula comes from the Latin calendae (first day of the month), and refers to the long flowering season, as calendulas bloom almost all year round. Several species, especially Calendula officinalis, have a long history of herbal and culinary use.


CULTIVATION


Calendulas are easily grown in full or half sun in any reasonably fertile well-drained soil. Deadhead routinely to prolong flowering and keep a watch for fungal diseases. Propagation is mainly from seed, through the perennials may be divided. They often naturalize and may become slightly invasive.


Top Tip


Calendulas have healing and antiseptic properties, and are popular in herbal remedies. The petals can also be used for herbal teas or added to salads to provide color and piquancy.

CALCEOLARIA

This genus of around 300 species includes annuals, perennials, and even some small shrubs, and is found from Mexico to the southern tip of South America. The leaves tend to be light green and are covered with fine hairs and small glands that make them sticky to the touch. They are known as slipper flower or ladies's purse, due to the distinctive pouchlike shape of the flowers, which is common to almost all species. The flowers are 2-lipped, with a small hooded upper lip and a large lower lip that is inflated to form a kind of pouch. Yellow, orange, and red shades dominate. Calceolaria plants are usually grown as pot plants or in hanging baskets, as the blossoms are rather fragile.


CULTIVATION


While Calceolaria plants vary in their frost hardiness and sun tolerance, they all prefer cool moist soil conditions. Work in plenty of high-humus compost before planting. The shrubby species tend to become rather untidy after a few years, and although pruning can rejuvenate them, replacement with new plants may be more successful. The seed germinates well, but tip cuttings strike so quickly that this is a more successful method of propagation.


Top Tip


A liquid fertilizer applied every few weeks to indoor plants will improve the size and color of the flowers. Make sure not to give them too much water.

BUDDLEJA

This genus consists of about 100 species of deciduous, semi-deciduous, and evergreen shrubs and small trees from America, Asia, and South Africa, and includes many tropical and subtropical species. The attractive leaves are large, pointed, often crepe-textured, and usually grow in opposite pairs on the stem. Most species are grown for their flowers, however, and there are many decorative cultivars to choose from. Small, usually fragrant, flowers form loose branching clusters, and occur in shades of pink, mauve, reddish purple, orange, and yellow. The genus can be spelt Buddleja or Buddleia and is named after the seventeenth-century English botanist Adam Buddle.


CULTIVATION


These plants are hardy, quick growing, salt tolerant, and will thrive in any soil type. They prefer full sun and good drainage. Pruning in early spring will keep the plant tidy. Propagate from half-hardened cuttings in summer.


Top Tip


The nectar-rich flowers of Buddleja davidii varieties often attractive feeding butterflies to the garden in summer.

BRUGMANSIA

Belonging to the South American potato family (Solanaceae), this genus contains just 5 species of large evergreen shrubs or small trees. Extensive hybridization, however, has produced a wide range of garden forms. The large downy leaves shield impressively long, hanging, trumpet-like flowers with flared lobes that curve delicately back towards the base of the flower. Colors range from white, cream, and yellow to pink and red. Brugmansia species generally flower in spring and autumn and can look quite spectacular when flowering en masse. Most plants bear fragrant flowers, with their scent being more noticeable in the evening. The common name of angel's trumpet comes from the shape of the flower but belies the dangerous effect of the narcotic substances found in all parts of the plant.


CULTIVATION


Frost tender and best suited to mild climates, these plants prefer full or half sun and deep, moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. During the summer growing season they need to be watered and fed well. Regular trimming will help keep the plant in a dense rounded shape. Propagate from half-hardened cuttings.


Top Tip


Prune brugmansias in early spring, removing old, dead, or surplus stems, to encourage an abundant display of flowers throughout the blooming season. 

BOUGAINVILLEA

Known for their brilliant floral displays and ground-covering power, bougainvilleas are strong-growing climbers and trailers from the tropics and subtropics of South America. Their wonderful colors come not from their true flowers, which are small cream tubes, but from the leafy bracts that surround them. The leaves are simple, elliptical, and taper to a fine point. Rather than climb by tendrils or twining, bougainvilleas use their sharp thorns to gain a hold and then develop a framewokr of strong stems. This genus was named in honour of the sixteenth-century explorer and scientist, Louis Antoine de Bougainville, who made the first French voyage around the world.


CULTIVATION


All species do well in warm to hot climates in full sun and some species will tolerate light frosts. Although drought tolerant, they need plenty of moisture during the flowering season. Overfeeding will produce masses of foliage but very little in the way of colorful bracts. Most cultivars can be propagated from cuttings.


Top Tip


Be sure to wear protective gloves when pruning or handling bougainvilleas, as their thorns are dangerously sharp.

BILLBERGIA

This genus belongs to the large bromellad family (Bromeliaceae) and consists of around 65 species of evergreen perennials and about 500 cultivars. Most species are epiphytic or rock dwelling and come from Mexico and the warmer regions of Central and South America. The leaves form a tubular rosette and range in color from dull olive green to gray-green with a variety of attractive markings. Showy stalked flower clusters emerge from the leaft rosttes. The flower are globular to cylindrical and have side spikes of blue-green to navy blue petals. Bright pink or red banner-like bracts appear underneath the flowerhead. Billbergia plants are commonly referred to as vase plants because the central hollow of the plant acts as an important storage area for water between rainfalls.


CULTIVATION


Most plants in this genus are easy to grow and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor planting. If planting outside, keep the plant in a sheltered humid spot in a porous fast-draining soil mix or a mound of stones. Use the shoots that grow from the base of the plant for propagation.


Top Tip


If grown as indoor plants, Billbergia species need to be potted in a mixture composed of leaf mold, bark, and sand. They do best if placed in a warm sunny position. 

BERGENIA

Curiously known as pig squeak, this genus of the saxifrage family (Saxifragaceae) is made up of 8 species of perennials that are found in Asia, extending from Afghanistan to Mongolia, Sprouting from tough woody stems, the large leathery leaves are broad and light green in color. The 5-petalled flowers grow in clusters on long stems and open in spring. Most species produce flowers in shades of pink but some garden forms occur in white, mauve, and red. Bergenia is named after an eighteenth-century German botanist, Karl August von Bergen. The common name pigsqueak comes from the sound the wet leaves make when rubbed between the fingers.


CULTIVATION


Bergenia species thrive in sun or shade with humus-rich soil. Planting in partial shade with cool moist conditions will develop lush foliage, whereas full sun will produce flowers at the expense of the leaves. This adaptable genus is extremely suitable as a ground cover or as a rockery plant.


Top Tip


Bergenia species will withstand less than ideal soil conditions and some neglect. However, they will benefit from the removal of old flowers and dead leaves.

BEGONIA

This genus belongs to the Begoniaceae family and contains around 900 species of perennials, shrubs, and climbers that are found throughout the tropics and subtropics. The most diverse species occur in the Americas. These clump-forming plants have olive green to bright green foliage that may vary greatly in color, texture, and shape but is often lobed and covered in fine haris. There is usually a single female flower surrounded by 2 or more male flowers, appearing in shades of white, yellow, orange, red, and pink. Begonias were named after Michel Begon, a fifteenth-century Governor of Santo Domingo and later of French Canada, known today as Quebec.


CULTIVATION


Outside of tropical climates, begonias are best grown as indoor container plants. They grow well in a bright but not a sunny position with cool, moist, humus-rich soil and need to be watered and fed well. Begonias are susceptible to fungal diseases so they need to have good air flow around them.


Top Tip


The many varieties of begonia offer a range of choices for the keen gardener. Some are suitable for basket planting, others as bedding annuals, while some cultivars are suited to terrarium planting.

BANKSIA

This genus is easy to recognize, with its bold flowering spikes, attractive foliage, and interesting fruiting cones. All but one of the approximately 75 species are endemic to Australia. Species range from woody low-growing shrubs to low-branching trees, though they all feature the large cylindrical or globular-shaped flower spikes made up of hundreds of densely packed small flowers in colors of pale orange and burnished gold to rosy pink and deep scarlet. As the flowers die they develop into large, woody, fruiting cones. The thick leathery leaves are usually long and narrow with toothed edges. The genus name comes from Sir Joseph Banks, the renowned English botanist who first documented the plants on his travels to Australia with Captain Cook.


CULTIVATION


Most species prefer an open sunny position and well-drained sandy soil. Some banksias are modertely frost tolerant and once etablished will withstand dry conditions. Taking cut flowers will encourage flower production and thicken up the foliage. Propagate from seed in early spring or autumn.


Top Tip


Banksias will benefit from a light pruning, rewarding keen gardeners with more flowers and denser foliage. To maintain the shape and appearance of the bush, lightly prune the tips regularly.

ASTRANTIA

This genus of about 10 species of perennials is mainly European, through it also occurs westwards to Asia, favouring alpine meadows or woodlands. Its most distinguishing feature is its sprays of flowers, which appear above the clump-forming hand-shaped foliage. The small pastel-toned flowers are borne on neat dome-shaped flowerheads and are surrounded by a ring of papery bracts, which are often more showy than the true flowers inside. This genus is variously referred to as masterwort or pin-cushion flower. The name Astrantia probably comes from the Latin aster, meaning star, referring to the star-shaped flowerheads. These plants are best grown in informal garden situations. They also make excellent dried flowers.


CULTIVATION


Apart from an intolerance of prolonged dry conditions. Astrantia plants grow freely in any cool-temperate garden with moderately fertile free-draining soil. The foliage may be more lush in the shade, which is of particular consideration with the variegated cultivars, but they usually flower best with at least half-sun. Propagate by division when dormant or from seed, which needs stratification.


Top Tip


Astrantia plants can be grown in cottage gardens, woodland gardens, or herbaceous borders. They make great cut flowers because of their straight wiry stems.

ASTILBE

Found mainly in temperate East Asia, this perennial gnus of the saxifrage family (Saxifragaceae) includes just 12 species but has been extensively selected and hybridized to produce many garden plants. The shiny toothed leaves sprout directly from the plant's fleshy stem and soon form a generous foliage clump. Striking long-stemmed plumes of tiny flowers appear during spring and summer in colors ranging from white to shades of pink, mauve, and red. Surprisingly, given their showy nature, the genus name Astilbe actually means without brilliance, coming from the Greek a (without) and stilbe (brilliance). That is because, although the flowersheads are bright, each flower on its own is tiny and rather dull.


CULTIVATION


Astilbe plants are not drought tolerant nor do they thrive in the hot summer sun; instead they prefer light, moist, humus-rich woodland soil and dappled sunlight. They often thrive around pond margins as they tolerate being waterlogged, especially in winter. To propagate, divide clumps in winter when dormant, then replant immediately.


Top Tip


Astilbe flowers can be cut and used in fresh flower arrangements, but they do not last long. Fore more satisfying results, bring some indoors as pot plants when the flowers are at their best.

ASTER

Found over much of the temperate Northern Hemisphere and into South America, this group of 250 species of mainly herbaceous perennials is the type genus for the daisy family, the Asteraceae. They are upright plants that often sprawl under the weight of their foliage and flowers, and have simple linear to lance-shaped leaves that are sometimes hairy and/or serrated along the edges. Most species bloom in late summer and autumn, producing large heads of small to medium-sized daisies in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, and blue. Asters feature in several Greek and Roman god myths; the ancient Greeks also believed that asters would repel snakes and serve as an antidote to their venom.


CULTIVATION


Mostly very frost resistant, asters have a preference for well-drained fertile soil that remains moist during the growing season. A sunny, airy, open position ensures maximum flower production and minimum mildew, which can cause problems in humid conditions. Cut back hard after flowering, and propagate by winter division or spring softwood cuttings.


Top Tip


Provide protection from strong winds. Taller perennials may benefit from staking if planted in an exposed area. When the flowers have faded, trim the long stems down to ground level and tidy the clumps.

ASCLEPIAS

This American and African genus consists of over 100 species and includes annuals, perennials, subshrubs, and shrubs among its number. The shrubs are generally upright many-branched plants with simple, narrow, elliptical to lance-shaped leaves. They produce heads of small 5-petalled flowers that are followed by inflated seed pods, sometimes oddly shaped and variable in length. Upon ripening, the seed pods open to reveal rows of tightly packed small seeds, each with a small parachute of silky down, hence the common name of silkweed. All parts of the plants exude a milky sap if cut, which may irritate the skin. This sap is the origin of the genus's other common name, milkweed.


CULTIVATION


Asclepias plants are easily grown in any light well-drained soil with full sun. They will, however, bear more luxuriant foliage and a greater profusion of flowers if well-fed and watered. The shrubby species are generally rather frost tender but grow so readily and quickly from seed that they can be treated as annuals or short-lived perennials.


Top Tip


Asclepias plants, particularly the shrubby species, can be trimmed to shape if necessary but do not cut back to bare wood as the plants can be slow to recover if pruned to excess.

ARTEMISIA

This genus of about 300 species of evergreen herbs and shrubs is spre4ad throughout northern temperate regions with some also found in southern Africa and South America. It is a member of the large daisy family, but most species bear small white or yellow flowers. The beauty of these plants lies in their attractive follage, which is well dissected and of palest gray to silver. The overall appearance is often soft and silky, and various species can be used to good effect in a border or clipped and used as a low hedge. The plants are often aromatic, Tarragon, the popular culinary herb, is a member of this genus.


CULTIVATION


These shrubs are perfect for hot dry climates as most can withstand considerable drought. They should be grown in full sun in light well-drained soil, Prune back quite hard in spring to prevent legginess and lightly clip at flowering time if the flowers are not wanted. Propagation is usually from softwood or half-hardened cuttings in summer.


Top Tip


The foliage of some Artemisia species is not only decorative but also quite aromatic; plant those species in the garden for a natural way of ward off leaf-eating insects.