Sparmannia africana is a fast-growing plant that would normally grow into a small tree or large shrub in the wild. It features some amazing flowers, as they move whenever touched. Sparmannia africana is also known as African hemp, African linden, house lime, or Cape stock rose. Originally from South Africa, Sparmannia africana grows in damp places on forest margins,
It’s always disappointing when a cherished houseplant suddenly looks sickly. It always seems to be the more expensive specimens that succumb to plant collapse, too. You won’t find much pleasure in growing indoor plants unless you learn how to avoid plant issues such as plant leaves curling, wilting, or dropping off. You might be surprised
Mikania is a quick-growing trailing house plant that entered the market in the 1980s. There is a single species of Mikania plants sold as house plants: Mikania ternata. The palmate leaves are green with a purplish sheen, slightly hairy above and densely hairy below. Mikania plants sold as houseplants are often called “Plush Vine” because of
Are you thinking about installing residential solar panels? Afraid that the solar panels you install will be an eyesore and want to know if hidden solar panels are the answer? Solar panels are a viable option to fulfill your energy requirements and reduce your carbon footprint. They’re also an excellent way of reducing monthly electricity
Falling snow, crackling fires, and hot cocoas – winters are typically a favorite time of year for many; however, it can be a time of doom and gloom for your garden as many flowering plants fail to do well or simply die, leaving the garden colorless. Adding winter hanging plants is a surefire way to
When planning a garden, it can be quite difficult to picture the size and placement of plants and garden beds. Before you can plant your garden, you need to judge the best plant placement and how everything will look together. Only if you base your garden design on a plan drawn accurately to scale can
Bertolonia, or Jewel Plant, is a genus of mainly evergreen plants. All species of this genus are small, even dwarfed, with a creeping growth habit. They’re tender perennials, known for the exotic coloring of their leaves. These plants are native to the tropical forests of Brazil, although a few have been found in Venezuela. These
Umbrella Palm (Cyperus alternifolius), also known as umbrella papyrus, is native to Madagascar. It grows in the form of shrubs and in most cases, these are wrongly mistaken for grasses. Both are monocots, but the umbrella palm tree is a sedge. In fact, one common name for Cyperus alternifolius is “umbrella sedge.” Umbrella palm has
If you prefer a naturalized outdoor space, you may be thinking about creating an informal garden. But “informal” doesn’t mean messy or out of control. This type of garden is meant to mimic nature, with flowing, curved lines and naturalistic plantings. In nature, plants naturally grow together without much of a plan. Seeds germinate and
Pear trees (Pyrus communis) bear sweet fruit with crisp, white flesh. Many gardeners tend to shy away from growing fruit trees due to their delicate and temperamental nature. However, it’s quite easy to grow a pear tree from seed —you just need a little knowledge, patience, and careful planning. Typically, pear trees need at least
There are several reasons why growing espalier tomatoes in courtyards or on patios is desirable. Primarily, it’s because they take up very little space in a small garden. Another benefit of growing your tomatoes climbing up walls and trellises is that by spreading the branches out, the fruit receives maximum sunlight. The warmth from the
A garden is more than a static display of plants to enjoy from afar. Your garden is part of your home, and like your home, it helps to express your unique personality. Gardening is the most patient of the arts, with the land as your canvas and the plants your paints. When you think about
