The butterfly bush, also known as Buddleja or Buddleia, is one of the most beloved flowering shrubs in gardens worldwide. This is because of their long flowering period and intoxicating fragrance that attracts hundreds of swallowtails, painted ladies, and hummingbirds. This plant was first discovered in China by the French missionary and botanist Père Armand…
Weigela is one of the most beloved flowering shrubs in gardens worldwide. With its arching branches covered in trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies, it offers weeks of vibrant color from late spring into early summer. Many modern cultivars rebloom until frost. This plant belongs to the honeysuckle family (Caprifoliaceae). It’s a deciduous flowering…
The Little Devil ninebark is one of the most popular compact shrubs on the market today. When I first saw it in full burgundy glory at a local nursery a few years ago, I instantly understood why gardeners call it “the little black dress of the landscape.” This dark foliage plant looks good with everything…
Walk past a rhododendron in bloom and you’ll never forget it. Large clusters (called trusses) of funnel- or bell-shaped flowers appear at the tips of the branches in spring. Each flower usually has five petals, and many have freckles or a colored blotch in the throat. The leaves are typically evergreen, leathery, and dark green….
Peace lilies (Spathiphyllum) are more than just houseplants. They’re resilient companions that purify the air, making our homes safe. But when those iconic white “flowers” start blackening, it signals a cry for help. Before we understand why this happens, let’s start by getting to know your plant a little better. Peace lilies don’t have true…
Peace lilies are among the most beloved houseplants in American homes. With their elegant white “flowers” (technically specialized leaf bracts called spathes) and glossy dark green foliage, they bring a touch of the tropics to living rooms, offices, and bedrooms across the country. But what happens when those pristine white blooms suddenly turn green? If…
Tree peonies are a gardener’s dream, combining beauty, longevity, and versatility. Their large, fragrant blooms create a stunning display in spring, while their woody structure adds year-round interest. They’re also low-maintenance once established, making them ideal for busy gardeners. I’ve found that tree peonies attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the ecological value of…
Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus), often called “pinks” or “clove pinks,” are popular ornamental flowers. They’re prized for their long-lasting blooms, sweet fragrance, and variety of colors—red, pink, white, and even striped. In American gardens, carnations are a go-to for borders, containers, and cut flower arrangements. They thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9, making them a favorite…
Picture this: It’s a warm summer evening, and the air hums—not with insects, but with the rapid wingbeats of ruby-throated hummingbirds. That’s the scene I first encountered when I planted my first hummingbird bush five years ago. What started as a simple addition to my xeriscape has become the heartbeat of my garden, drawing in…
Viburnum shrubs are a favorite in American gardens, blending beauty, versatility, and resilience. With over 150 species, these shrubs offer vibrant spring flowers, colorful berries, and striking fall foliage, thriving across diverse U.S. climates (USDA Hardiness Zones 2–10). Perfect for hedges, focal points, or wildlife gardens, viburnums adapt to various soils and require minimal care,…