September 2025

What is the purpose of a bottle tree? In the Southeastern United States, as well as in other parts of the country, the bottle tree is popular, but unlike your garden birdbath, the purpose of this ornament is to protect its owner from evil spirits. The common name derives from the tree’s shape, which becomes […]

What does Astragalus membranaceus do? Its root has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, often in combination with other herbs. Astragalus is considered an adaptogen, which is a natural substance theorized to stimulate the body’s resistance to physical, environmental, and emotional stress. Side effects may include mild allergic reactions such as a rash,

Does Hakonechloa macra like sun or shade? Hakonechloa macra performs well in shade. There are few grasses that perform well in the shade that also have ornamental value. One of the best ornamental grasses for shade is Hakone Grass, or Japanese Forest Grass, Hakonechloa macra, particularly its distinctive variegated or colored-leaf cultivars. Hakone Grass prefers

What is Laurus nobilis used for? Laurus nobilis | Lauraceae | bay laurel Bay laurels have been used to treat uterine problems, rheumatism, and for nerves. The leaves and extracts are used to suppress high blood sugar, fungal and bacterial infections. It has been used to treat eructation, flatulence and gastrointestinal problems. Generally, nothing. Bay

Is dracena a good indoor plant? Dracaena fragrans ‘Massangeana’, or the Corn Plant, is cherished for its striking, glossy green leaves with a bold central yellow stripe. As a slow-growing, easy-care indoor plant, it thrives in low-light conditions and purifies the air, making it ideal for home and office spaces. One of the best things

What is bugleweed herb used for? Bugleweed (Lycopus americanus) is a plant. The parts of the plant that grow above the ground are sometimes used as medicine. People use bugleweed for overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), premenstrual syndrome (PMS), insomnia, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Bugleweed can be

What is a hummingbird’s favorite plant? They love agastache (hummingbird mint) of any color and routinely visit the blooms of aquilegia, allium, and salvia. Our perennial hummingbird plants will encourage frequent visits by these beloved little birds that will hover around your flower pots and landscape. Hummingbirds are most active at sunrise and sunset, when

What is the neem leaf good for? The leaf extract is used to reduce tooth plaque and to treat lice. Neem contains chemicals that might help reduce blood sugar levels, heal ulcers in the digestive tract, prevent pregnancy, kill bacteria, and prevent plaque from forming in the mouth. Neem contains potent antioxidants that scavenge free

How do you take care of a string of hearts plant? Grow string of hearts in bright indirect light, out of direct sunshine. Water regularly in spring and summer, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter, and never let the plant sit in water as the roots can rot

Do Muscari come back every year? Grape hyacinths are perennial plants that come back every year and have a tendency to self-seed, so you might find them invasive – if you’d rather keep them contained, plant them in containers. When the grape hyacinth flowers begin to fade, their flower heads should be plucked off before