The genus Bauhinia, is named after 16th century Swiss-French identical twin brothers who were botanists, Johann and Caspar Bauhin. Appropriately named, because the leaves of Bauhinia, are two-lobed and perfectly symmetrical. This particular species blooms year round with pink and white whispy flowers, and is an excellent nectar source for butterflies, especially, the Giant Swallowtail. As a…
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Here is the final installment in our series on fragrant shrubs and trees growing at Richard Lyons’ Nursery. Brugmansia sp. (Angel’s Trumpet) – In bloom, this genus of seven species is hard to forget. It bears large, pendant, trumpet-shaped flowers that emit a pleasing fragrance that is strongest during evening hours. Brugmansias, related to peppers, potatoes and…
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Here is the third installment of our series on fragrant shrubs and trees growing at Richard Lyons’ Nursery. Buddleja madagascariensis – The Madagascar Butterfly Bush is endemic to its namesake country. It grows informally, usually to about 13 ft., but can exceed that height. However, it can be successfully pinched back, or even cut back hard, to encourage branching…
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We have previously addressed the grave threat to the avocado industry in Florida. Laurel Wilt Disease is being spread by an insect vector, and a cure has eluded plant scientists. But recently a ray of hope has surfaced, and CBS News sent a reporter to southern Florida to find out more about it. Here is…
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We continue with our look at fragrant plants that Richard Lyons’ Nursery recommends for your yard. Acacia farnesiana – Its common name, Sweet Acacia, describes the quality of its fragrance. This native North American species, which matures slowly to about 30 ft., has a lot going for it: It is relatively pest-free. It produces puffy, golden-yellow flowers…
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