Author name: oliviajones

What is a local native plant? Indigenous (local native) plants are locally unique. Natives is a term commonly used to refer to plants that come from anywhere in Australia. For example, certain Western Australian plants are native to Australia, but not native to Hornsby Shire. Indigenous plants are plants that occur naturally in a local […]

What is prickly pear cactus good for? What’s behind the hype? Prickly pear cactus — or also known as nopal, opuntia and other names — is promoted for treating diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity and hangovers. It’s also touted for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Native to the Americas, prickly pear is a spiny, drought-resistant succulent

What is the common name for catalpa? The bean-like seed pod is the origin of the alternative vernacular names Indian bean tree and cigar tree for Catalpa bignonioides and Catalpa speciosa, respectively. The seed pods (fruits) are long (10-24 inches), green and slender during the summer, resembling greatly elongated green beans. They are the reason

How long do coleus plants live? Coleus will quickly die if they’re exposed to freezing temperatures and frost. Overall, expect outdoor plants to last about a year, and indoor plants can keep you company for up to 3-5 years if properly cared for. The transition back to outdoor plant after spending the winter indoors is

What are the benefits of aronia berries? Aronia berries are rich in antioxidant phenolic compounds that show anti-inflammatory activity, which may be translated into potential preventive and therapeutic effects for metabolic disorder, as well as for cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular, kidney, and liver diseases [71,72]. Myth: Aronia Berries are Poisonous However, it is important to

What is the difference between forest pansy and redbud? The forest pansy redbud is a fast-growing redbud tree that is similar in size to the eastern and oklahoma redbuds. However, unlike other varieties, the forest pansy stands out for its striking wine-colored leaves that change to green in the summer and yellow in the fall.

Is Syngonium a good indoor plant? Syngonium is an excellent houseplant. This plant likes bright locations but grows much better in semi shade. Syngonium does not mind low light indoor conditions for a long time. Its attractive coarse textured foliage with ornamental leaves and patterns makes it suitable for indoor decor. In the wild, Syngonium

Will alyssum spread? Sweet Alyssum also does very well in beds, raised or ground beds. It will spread nicely and you want to plant it on the edge to be a strong contrast to the rest of the plants. Its compact growth habit and dense foliage act as a natural ground cover, suppressing weeds and

What is the common name for Helenium? Common sneezeweed is also known as Helen’s flower, bitterweed, autumn sneezeweed, and false sunflower. The genus name, Helenium, refers to the famous Helen of Troy. In the new world, many groups of Native Americans cultivated and used Helenium for various medicinal purposes, including treating fevers and head colds.

What are the best flowers for hanging plants? What plants grow well in hanging baskets? Ferns, English Ivy and Periwinkle are common hanging plants. If you’re in the market for plants that aren’t ferns, flowers love baskets too! Consider Verbena, Lobelia, Moss Roses, Geraniums, Lantana, Petunias and/or Signet Marigolds. Sometimes mixing three trailing plants can