PHILADELPHUS

This genus of 60 species is a member of the Hydrangeaceae/Philadelphaceae family and is made up of deciduous shrubs from the temperate regions of East Asia, the Himalayas, the Caucasus, and Central and North America. The plants generally have peeling bark and light green roughly elliptical leaves that are smooth; in some species, the leaves are slightly hairy on the undersides. They flower in spring and summer, mostly bearing 4-petalled white or cream flowers that grow in loose clusters at the end of the leaft stem. Blooms can be single, semi-double, or double. The scent of the flower is very similar to that of orange blossom, hence the common name of mock orange. Philadelphus lewisii is the state flower of Idaho.


CULTIVATION


Philadelphus plants are easily grown in full sun, partial shade, or in deciduous open woodland in moist well-drained soil. Planting in full sun will increase the number of flowers,. Propagate from softwood cuttings taken in summer or hardwood cuttings in autumn and winter.


Top Tip


The delicious fragrance of Philadelphus flowers can be enjoyed indoors. Simply float fresh-cut flowerheads in a shallow bowl filled with water.

PHALAENOPSIS

There are nearly 50 species of primily evergreen epiphytic orchids in this genus. They are found throughout the tropical rain-foreset of  Southest Asia and grow on the trunks on the leaves of other plants.The plain green or spotted fleshy leaves grow from the rootstock , and the arching flower stems reach above the broad straplike foilage. The stems bear up to 20 often pendent flowers that are made up of  intricate petals and are most often white but are spmetimes pale pink.These spectacular flowers appers at almost any time of the year and look like fluttering butterflies, giving the genus Phalaenopsis the common name of moth orchid.

CULTIVATION

These orchids require warm, humid, and damp conditions, or a well-ventilated green-hous, with filtered light, con-stant moisture, and rich but well-drained compost. They are generally best grown in pots and, once established, should be left undisturbed. Propagate by division in spring.

TOP-TIP

Phalaenopsis plants can bloom at any time, and up to 3 times a year. When taking flowers, cut just above one of the little bracts on the stem, as this will encourage re-blooming.

PETUNIA

This tropical South American genus of the potato family (Solanaceae) includes some 35 species of annuals, perennials, and shrubs. Most species are low spreading plants with dark green, soft, downy, rounded leaves, and large trumpet-shaped flowers that have 5 fused lobes and range in color from white, pink, and red to blue and purple, often with a variety of multicolored markings. Cultivated varieties occur in virtually every color but lack the soft fragrance of some of the species. The genus is closely allied to tobacco (Nicotiana), and the leaves having a similar narcotic effect. The genus name comes from petun, a Brazilian Indian name for tobacco.


CULTIVATION


Plant in full sun with moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. While the plants need watering, the flowers are easily damaged when sprayed too heavily with water. Modern strains of the plant are more resistant to this, as well as wet-weather damage. Propagate from seed or from cuttings.


Top tip


Petunias will thrive if they are given a high-potassium fertilizer weekly during the growing season. If in a pot, add slow-release fertilizer to the potting mix.

PENSTEMON

This genus consists of around 250 species of deciduous, evergreen, or semi-evergreen subshrubs and perennials found from Alaska to Guatemala, as well as cool-temperate Asia. Some species are mat-forming, others are shrubby, but most form clumps of simple linear to lance-shaped leaves that grow in opposite pairs on the stem. the flowers appear mainly in summer, borne at the end of erect tubular to bell-shaped, with 2 upper lobes and 3 larger lower lobes. They come in blues, reds, white, and bicolors. Many cultivars have been bread, selected for their generous numbers of flowers. Native Americans used parts of several species in herbal medicines, primarily for pain relief and to control bleeding.


CULTIVATION


These marginally to very frost-hardy plants do well in fertile well-drained soil and full sun. Cut plants back hard after flowering has finished. Certain species may need protection over winter with a layer of mulch. Propagate from seed in spring or autumn, by division in spring, or from cuttings in late summer.


Top Tip


It is easy to grow Penstemon species from seed. Before planting in spring, refrigerate the seeds for 3 weeks, as they need a cold period if they are to germinate.

PELARGONIUM

Most of  the 250 species of annuals,peren-nails,and subshrubs in this geranium family (Geraniaceae) genus come frome South Africa , with a few from Australia,the Middle East, and other parts of Africa. The foliage is quite varied but is often light green, rounded or hand-shapped, with conspicuous lobes, fine hairs, and dark blotches.Some species have semi-succulent leaves. The flowers are simple and 5-petalled, often brightly coloured, and sometimes grown in a mass of blooms, ranging in color from white and pink to mauve and purple. The genus name comes from the Greek word pelargos (a stork), referring to the shape of the seed pod, as does the genus's common name of storksbill.


CULTIVATION


These mostly frost-tender plants grow well in a mild climate and are suitable for garden beds and pots. Plant in full sun with fertile, light, well-drained soil. Once established, Pelargonium plants are drought tolerant. Propagate the annuals and species from seed and the perennials and shrubs from cuttings.


Top tip 


The fresh leaves of most Pelargonium species can be used as an exotic flavouring in jams and jellies, while the dried leaves ae popular additions to potpourri.

PASSIFLORA

This genus of the family Passifloraceae contains over 500 species of mainly evergreen tendril-climbing vines from tropical America. They are known for their ornamental blossoms and their pulpy pale yellow to purple-black fruit, the passionfruit. The flowerheads are made upt of a tubular casing at the base; 5 to 10 tepals that are spread out flat, arching, or bowl-shaped; a crown of anthers; and a single stalk in the center bearing the stamen and ovaries, often in a 3-pronged starlike formation. Colors range from pale yellow or pink to purple-red. The common name of passion flower comes from the Jesuit association of the flower structure with the crucifixion of Christ.


CULTIVATION


Most species are frost tender and like a warm climate in full or half sun with deep,moist,humus-rich,well-drained soil. Feed and water well.Trim and remove any frosted foliage in spring. Propagate from seed,layers,or cuttings.


Tip Top


Hardy Passiflora species can be trained to grow over walls,arches,and trellises,but they will require pruning in late winter so they don't become congested.   

PAPHIOPEDILUM

This orchid genus of 80 or more species extends from India through to Southeast Asia, including southern China, and from the Philippines and Malaysia to New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. The plants grow mostly at moderate altitudes in dense shade on the rainforest floor, in leaft mold on rock faces, or occasionally on the trunk and leaves of other plants. They are usually compact, consisting of fleshy roots, a short stem, and a few large, often mottled, straplike leaves with a spray of one or a few highly exotic looking flowers. The flowers are large with a pouched lip and come in a wide range of shapes and colors, including striped, mottled, and spotted.


CULTIVATION


The growing requirements depend on the origin, habitat, and altitude of the particular species. Paphiopedilum species are best grown in part-shade, although some tolerate sunny positions. They are best grown in containers, with a well-drained bark-based potting mix. Propagate from seed or by division.


Top Tip


When growing Paphiopedilum species in pots, choose a potting mix that drains fast but retains some moisture. The plants like to be crowded, so a medium-sized pot should be used.

PAPAVER

Instantly recognized as the poppy, this wide-spread group of about 50 species of annuals and perennials belongs to the Papaveraceae family. Leaves grow from the base of the plant to form rosettes and are usually dark to light green, lobed, and covered in fine hairs. Upright flower stems covered in bristles grow out of the leaf rosettes and hold aloft the nodding bud that develops into the distinctive flower. These are usually 4-petalled, paper-textured, cup-shaped, and occur in shades of white, yellow, orange, pink, or red. The poppy is often associated with war remembrance days, a link attributed to Homer, the eighth-century B.C. Greek poet, who first associated the drooping poppy bud with the form of a dying soldier.


CULTIVATION


Poppies are frost hardy and prefer a sunny position with light, moist, and well-drained soil. Most species are propagated from seed although perennial poppy cultivars are propagated from root cuttings.


Top Tip


Papaver nudicaute, the iceland poppy, is the best species for cut flowers. Pick just a the buds are beginning to open, and singe the ends before placing in water.

PAEONIA

There are 30 or so species in this genus of beautiful herbaceous perennials and deciduous shrubs, all native to temperate parts of the Northern Hemisphere. They have long-lived, rather woody rootstocks and stems, and bod foliage. Leaves are dark green to blue-green, usually toothed or lobed, and are sometime maroon or red-tinged. The large flowers are usually erect and solitary, cup- or saucer-shaped, and have brightly colored petals surrounding a mass of short stamens. Petals may be white, yellow, or shades of pink, sometimes flushed red at the center, and stamens are mostly white or yellow. The genus name goes back to Ancient Greek times and refers to the supposed medicinal properties of the species.


CULTIVATION


Paeonia species can urvive in cold climates as long as they have protection from early spring frosts, strong winds, and hot sun. They prefer full or slightly filtered sunlight with cool moist soil. Propagate from seed or by division.


Top Tip


Paeonia plants are susceptible to gray mold, which rots leaf bases, stems, and buds. Spray affected plants with a fungicide and make sure the soil is well drained.

OSTEOSPERMUM

Found mainly in southern Africa, this genus consists of some 70 species of annuals, perennials, and subshrubs of the daisy family (Asteraceae). The plants are generally low, spreading, or mounding in growth habit with simple, broadly toothed, slliptical to spatula-shaped leaves. Osteospermum plants are valued for the cheerful carpet of flowers they provide through the 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-blue color and sporting golden pollen-bearing anthers, which add to the plant's beauty. The genus name comes from the Greek words osteon (bone) and sperma (seed) and refers to the hard seeds.


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.


Top Tip


Very hardy plants, Osteospermum species suit a range of garden situations including along paths, in borders, over embankments, or in rock gardens.

ORNITHOGALUM

This large genus belongs to the hyacinth family (Hyacinthaceae) and contains around 80 species of bulbs native to South Africa and the Mediterranean region. They quickly form large clumps of grassy to strap-like leaves, sometimes with a rib down the middle of them. In spring or summer, depending on the species, upright conical spikes of white to cream flowers appear. Often called chincherinchee or the star-of-Bethlehem, the flowers are sometimes mildly scented. They are usually starry or cup-shaped and have 6 petals in 2 whorls of 3. The botanical name comes from the Greek ornis (a bird) and gala (milk), as the flowers resemble a white bird when they are spread out. They are striking additions to a rock garden or border.


CULTIVATION


Most of the European species tolerate moderate frosts whereas the South African species are frost tender and may need to be lifted for winter. Plant in a sunny open position with light well-drained soil. Water well when flowering, then dry off when the plants are dormant. Propagate by division.


Top Tip


Although popular in rock gardens. Ornithogalum species also do well in containers. Use a loam-based potting mix and water sufficiently for moist but not damp soil.

OENOTHERA

Commonly referred to as evening primrose, this genus contains over 120 species of annuals, blennials, and perennials of the willow herb family (onagraceae). species are found in the temperate zones of the americas and may vary considerbly: some have taproots and tend to grow upright; others have fibrous roots; and certain species have a sprawling growth habit. The foliage varies from clump-forming with soft, hairy, toothed- or lance-shaped leaves to large rought leaves growing on erect stems. The cup-shaped flowers make a lovely display over summer in bright shades of yellow, or less commonly, pink, red, or white. Evening primrose oil is extracted from the plant's tiny seeds and is used in a range of homeopathic remedies.

CULTIVATION

Mostly very hardy, these tough adaptable plants prefer full sun and light, gritty, free-draining soil. Summer watering produces stronger growth but they will also tolerate drought conditions. Fibrous-rooted species can be divided when dormant, otherwise propagate from seed or from cuttings taken from the base of the plant.

Top Tip

These plants have both culinary and medicinal uses. Evening primrose oil from the seeds is said to be highly therapeutic, and the leaves can be eaten in salads or used to make tea.

NICOTIANA

As the genus name indicates, this is the well-known source of tobacco leaf. There are over 65 species in this genus, the bulk of which are annuals and perennials native to tropical and subtropical America, a well as Australia. Most species are tall and treelike but a few species grow as shrubs, though they tend to be softwooded and short-lived. Their leaves are usually deep green, very large, and covered with fine hairs. They are sticky to the touch, and may exude a fragrance when crushed. The attractive flowers are tubular or bell-shaped; mostly white or in pastel shades of green, pale yellow, pink, or soft red; and usually open only in the early evening or at night. If the blooms are fragrant, the scent is also often released at night.


CULTIVATION


Most tobacco species are marginally frost hardy to frost tender. They grow best in warm humid climates with ample summer rainfall in full sun or partial shade. They require soil that is moist, well-drained, and reasonably fertile. Most Nicotiana species are propagated from seed sown in the spring, though some will grow from cuttings.


Top Tip


Many Nicotiana species are happy in large containers. Use a multi-purpose compost and add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil before planting.

NERIUM

This small genus belongs to the dogbane family and consists of only 2 species of long-flowering evergreen shrubs native to the area from southwestern Asia across to China. The leaves are simple, smooth-edged, narrow, and lance-shaped, providing a background for the attractive flowers that range in color from white and pale pink to red. The numerous cultivars further broaden the color spectrum. Appearing in clusters, the flowers are made up of 5 broad petals that are fused into a narrow tube at one end and flare open at the other into a disc or a shallow cup. Nerium plants are very beautiful garden subjects but are also extremely poisonous; care is needed when working with them in the garden.


CULTIVATION


Plant in almost any type of soil, except wet, in full sun. They will tolerate light frosts if grown in a sheltered position. Well-established plants may be pruned quite severely in winter, about once every 3 years, to maintain their shape. Propagate from half-hardened cuttings taken in autumn or from seed in spring.


Top Tip


Although they are extremely hardy plants in mild climates, in cooler areas Nerium oleander and its cultivars need to be overwintered indoors as they are not cold-hardy.

NERINE

Commonly known as the spider lily or Gurnsey lily, this genus is an autumn-flowering member of the amaryllis family and includes around 30 species of bulbs that often resemble smaller versions of Amaryllis. Native to southern Africa, these plants may be evergreen on die down in summer. The deep to brihgt green leaves vary from grassy to straplike and surround upright flower stems carrying many-flowered heads of long-tubed funnel-shaped blooms each with 6 widely flared, narrow petals. Flower color ranges from pink and red to scarlet and white. A story, probably apocryphal, says the Guernsey lily was so-named because Nerine was introduced to Europe when a bulb washed up on the island of Guernsey.


CULTIVATION


Plant, with the neck of the bulb exposed, in half or full sun in well-drained, humus-rich, sandy soil. Grow in pots in areas of severe frosts. Water well during the growth period but keep dry when dormant; the watering program should be maintained for evergreen species. Propagate by division, from shoots growing at the base of the plant, or from seed.


Top Tip


In coolr climates, containers of Nerine species can be brought indoors, where the longlasting statuesque flowers will create a dramatic effect.

NEPETA

A member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), this genus of around 250 mainly aromatic perennials is native to a wide area of Eurasia, North Africa, and the mountains of tropical Africa. They are mainly low-growing plants, rather sprawling in habit, with small, toothed, often aromatic leaves. In summer the gray-green foliage disappears under upright spikes bearing many tiny flowers along their length. The 2-lipped flowers range in color from white to mauve-blue to deep purple. Nepeta hybrids make exceptional garden plants and are ideal for herbaceous borders, for edgings, or as ground covers. The common names of catnip and catmint refer to the fondness that cats have for playing and lying in this plant.


CULTIVATION


Best grown in full sun, Nepeta species prefer light free-draining soil. Pinch back in spring to encourage compact growth and water well. Cutting back the plants each year will maintain their shape and keep them tidy. Propagation is by division, from cuttings taken during late spring or summer, or from seed.


Top Tip


Nepeta species self-seed very freely and can become invasive. To prevent this, give the plants a light trim in the grown season and cut back the old growth in spring.

NEMESIA

Confined to South Africa, this figwort family (Scrophulariaceae) genus includes around 65 species of annuals, perennials, and subshrubs. They form small mounds of foliage with toothed, linear, or lance-shaped leaves. Their flowers, which grow in clusters on short stems, are trumpet-shaped and 2-lipped; the upper lip is 4-lobed, the lower lip 1- or 2-lobed, often in a contrasting color. The annuals are popular short-lived bedding plants occurring in a wide range of bright colors. While less vividly colored, the perennials live longer, are sometimes mildly scented, and are useful plants for borders, rockeries, or pots. The genus is named for Nemesis, the goddess of retribution, though the reason why these inoffensive little plants should bear such a name is intriguingly unclear.


CULTIVATION


Plant in a sunny position with light free-draining soil that can be kept moist. Pinch back leaf tips when plants are young to keep the compact shape. Annuals should be sown in succession for continuous bloom. The perennials tolerate light frosts and grow from the cuttings of non-flowering stems.


Top Tip


Nemesia species flower for only a short time but it is possible to prolong the flowering period by cutting the plants back hard when the blooms have finished.

NARCISSUS

Commonly known as daffodil and jonquil, narcissus is part of the amaryllis family (Amaryllidaceae) and includes around 50 species of mainly spring-flowering bulbs found from Europe and North Africa to Japan. Leaves are grassy to straplike, and the flowers almost always have the characteristic cup- or trumpet-shaped corona backed by 6 petals (the perianth). Their appeal is such that thousands of garden forms are now available. Horticulturalists have divided them according to flower type into 12 divisions. The genus name comes from the Greek mythological tale of the youth Narcissus who fell in love with his reflection in a pool. Unable to pull himself way, he eventually wasted away to become a flower.


CULTIVATION


Narcissus plants are generally very hardy and quite adaptable, growing in borders, pots, or in drifts across lawns. They prefer full or half sun when in growth and do well under deciduous trees. Good drainage is important. Propagate by breaking up established clumps.


Top Tip


Daffodils make excellent cut flowers and are best picked when the buds are almost ready to open. Change the water daily or use a good cut flower additive.

MYOSOTIS

This is a genus of around 50 species of annuals, biennials, and perennials of the borage family (Boraginaceae), with the centers of distribution in Europe, Asia, the Americas, and New Zealand. Most are small tufted plants with simple, blunt, lance-shaped leaves that are some times grayish and often covered in fine hairs. Their 5-petalled flowers are tiny but quite showy as they are usually borne in sprays on short branching stems. Most bloom in spring and early summer, and flowers are usually white, cream, pink, or various shades of blue and mauve. A German legend attributes the common name of forget-me-not to a lover who, while gathering the flowers, fell into a river and cried "forget-me-not" as he drowned.


CULTIVATION


These plants are very easily grown in any position, sunny or shady, as long as it remains moist during summer. Alpine species benefit from a gritty free-draining soil but the others aren't fussy. The perennials may be propagated from seed or by careful division in late winter, the annuals from seed sown in spring.


Top Tip


Relatively trouble-free, Myosotis species thrive in a cool, damp environment, and are especially suitable for woodland gardens or water-side planting.

MONARDA

This genus of 16 specie of perennials and annuals from North America is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). These plants form large clumps, dying away completely in winter but recovering quickly in spring to form thickets of angled stems with lance-shaped aromatic leaves that are often red-tinted and hairy, with serrated edges. In summer the top of each stem carries several whorls of tubular flowers backed by leafy bracts. These plants are much loved by bees, which is reflected in the common name of bee balm. Other common names for Monarda are bergamot and horsemint. The genus name Monarda honors Nicholas Monardes, a fourteenth-century Spanish botanist.


CULTIVATION


Monarda species are very hardy and easily grown in any open sunny position with moist well-drained soil. Mildew is often a problem in late summer, so good ventilation is important. Propagation is by division when dormant or from cuttings taken from the base of the plant.


Top Tip


With aromatic leaves and nectar-rich flowers, not only will the air bedeliciously scented, but bees and humingbirds will be regular visitors to the garden where Monarda plants are featured.