Continuing last week’s feature, we recommend three more species that flower dependably in settings where lighting is muted: Philippine Violet (Barleria cristata): Okay, class, our topic this hour is “Misnomers of the Plant World, or What Not to Like About Common Names.” Accordingly, we consider Barleria cristata, commonly known as the Philippine Violet. The problem is that it’s…
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We’re sure you’ll agree that this is the season when time outdoors is best spent avoiding the sun. That would also make it the ideal time to introduce new colors, shapes or textures to the shadier parts of your yard. Here are a few suggestions for ornamentals from Richard Lyons’ Nursery that should pique your interest:…
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Does the name ‘azadirachtan’ ring a bell? It probably should, because it is a hugely versatile chemical compound that has made the neem tree legendary in India and surrounding lands for some 2,000 years. And chances are that its full medicinal and insecticidal potential has yet to be tapped. The neem tree (Azadirachta indica), a…
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If you’re searching for a plant that’s easy to grow, look no further than Portulaca. Also known as Moss Rose, this genus comprises somewhere between 40 and 100 species native to both Old World and New World locales. Fast-growing on thick reddish stems and featuring fleshy leaves, it literally thrives in the absence of attention. Topping…
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Most people know Guaiacum sanctum simply as ‘Lignum vitae,’ but its true recognized common name is actually ‘Holywood Lignum vitae.’ The basic two-word term Lignum vitae is somewhat misleading, because it applies not only to G. sanctum, but also to other species of Guaiacum. G. officinale is the Roughbark (or Common) Lignum vitae. ‘Lignum vitae’…
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