This deciduous holly’s red berries make it a winter winner. Read Article
Author Archives: Daniel J. Hinkley
Butterfly Bushes
From Weed to Garden Splendor Read Article
Daphne bholua
Daphne, the first love of Apollo, gave her name to a genus of shrubs as endearing as her flight from his embrace. She was transformed into a laurel tree to escape the god, so we crown champions with laurel (Laurus nobilis) wreaths. But for fragrance alone, there is no single genus of shrubs that I find more indispensable for the garden than Daphne… Read Article
The genus Aloe
The genus Aloe merits wider use, be it in a potted collection or in mixed plantings. More than any other plant, aloe vera is an icon of the 1960s and ’70s (at least within the realm of legality). It grew on nearly every countercultured windowsill in North America, offering its gelatinous sap to be smeared or swallowed for every known malady… Read Article
Melianthus Major
Melianthus major, or giant honey bush, is an impressive foliage plant. Read Article
Umbrella Leaf
Umbrella leaf is a very large-leaved perennial for shady gardens. Read Article
Collector’s Choice: Itea
A pleasant experience with one stunning selection led to other members of the genus Itea
Collector’s Choice: Proteaceae
The Proteaceae family includes several members that can contribute enticing flowers and foliage farther north than you might guess
Collector’s Choice: Indigofera
These Indigofera species reward simple care with scads of charming pea flowers and ferny foliage
Collector’s Choice: Cotinus obovatus
Less widely grown than its European cousin, American smoketree (Cotinus obovatus) offers a textured spring silhouette and brilliant foliage in fall, even in poor soils
Collector’s Choice: Schefflera
Besides the typical houseplant, this genus includes some attractive species worth trying in cooler gardens