Amwoga Khalwale

The Monterey Cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa), a striking evergreen conifer native to California’s rugged coastline, is celebrated for its dramatic, windswept silhouette and ecological significance. Often associated with the iconic landscapes of the Monterey Peninsula, this tree is a symbol of coastal resilience, thriving in harsh, salty environments where few others can. Its lush, aromatic foliage … Read more

Botanical Classification & Native Area The Italian Cypress, scientifically named Cupressus sempervirens, belongs to the Cupressaceae family, a diverse group of coniferous trees and shrubs. Within this family, it is classified under the genus Cupressus, which encompasses true cypresses. The species name sempervirens, meaning “ever-living” in Latin, reflects its evergreen nature, retaining vibrant foliage year-round. … Read more

Fig trees (Ficus carica), cherished for their sweet, juicy fruits and lush, tropical foliage, are a gardener’s delight, blending ornamental beauty with bountiful harvests. Native to the Middle East and Western Asia, these deciduous trees or shrubs from the Moraceae family thrive in USDA zones 7–11, though some cold-hardy varieties extend to zone 5 with … Read more

Poplar trees, belonging to the genus Populus in the Salicaceae (willow) family, are iconic for their rapid growth, towering heights, and versatile uses, making them a top choice for shade, privacy, and timber production. Native to the Northern Hemisphere, these deciduous trees thrive in USDA zones 3–9, reaching heights from 20 to 165 feet (6–50 … Read more

Mulberry trees, particularly Morus alba (white mulberry), are cherished for their fast growth, delicious fruits, and historical significance, making them a standout choice for home gardens, orchards, and landscapes. Native to China and India, Morus alba belongs to the Moraceae family and is renowned for its role in sericulture, as its leaves are the primary … Read more

Hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis), beloved spring-blooming bulbs, are a gardener’s delight, filling landscapes with vibrant colors and an intoxicating fragrance that can perfume entire yards. Native to the eastern Mediterranean, these members of the Asparagaceae family thrive in USDA zones 4–8, blooming in early to mid-spring alongside daffodils and early tulips. Their dense, cylindrical flower spikes, … Read more

Crape myrtle trees (Lagerstroemia), often spelled crepe myrtle or crapemyrtle, are the crown jewels of Southern gardens, celebrated for their vibrant summer blooms, striking fall foliage, and exfoliating bark that adds winter charm. Native to Southeast Asia, India, and Australia, these deciduous trees and shrubs from the Lythraceae family have become a staple in USDA … Read more

Evergreen trees are a diverse group of plants that retain their green foliage throughout the year, unlike deciduous trees that shed leaves seasonally. They include both coniferous species, with needle-like or scale-like leaves, and broadleaf varieties, with flat, often glossy leaves. Found in varied climates, from arctic tundras to tropical rainforests, they adapt to a … Read more

Bananas belong to the Musaceae family, primarily the genus Musa, with over 70 species, including Musa acuminata and Musa balbisiana, the main ancestors of cultivated bananas. These herbaceous perennials, often mistaken for trees, are classified as monocots in the order Zingiberales. Most edible bananas are hybrids, sterile cultivars propagated vegetatively, grouped into dessert or cooking … Read more

Bamboo plants belong to the Poaceae family, specifically the subfamily Bambusoideae, encompassing over 1,400 species across 115 genera. These woody grasses are divided into two main types: clumping (sympodial) and running (monopodial), with genera like Bambusa, Phyllostachys, and Fargesia being prominent. Bamboos are classified as herbaceous or woody, with woody types most common in landscaping … Read more