North American Nature Vanguard
Amwoga KhalwalePrivet shrubs, from the Ligustrum genus in the olive family, are evergreen to semi-evergreen plants widely used for hedges and screens. Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, they thrive in zones 5-9, tolerating a range of soils and full sun to part shade. Their dense growth makes them landscaping staples. These shrubs vary in … Read more
Elephant ear plants, encompassing genera like Colocasia, Alocasia, Xanthosoma, and Caladium, are tropical perennials famed for their oversized, dramatic leaves. Native to regions from Southeast Asia to the Americas, they thrive in zones 8-12, loving warm, humid climates with rich, moist soil. Their bold foliage makes them stars in gardens and as houseplants. These plants … Read more
The Lantana plant belongs to the genus Lantana and the family Verbenaceae. Native to tropical regions of the Americas and Africa, Lantana has become naturalized in parts of the American Southeast. With over 150 species, these flowering plants bloom nonstop from late spring all the way through frost. In warmer climates, they’ll even keep flowering … Read more
Milkweed is a whole genus of about 140 species of herbaceous perennial flowering plants, scientifically known as Asclepias. These plants are found throughout North and South America, and many of them are cultivated as ornamentals. Its genus name “Asclepias” refers to the Greek god of medicine Asklepios. Milkweed grows quickly to two to four feet … Read more
Juniper trees and shrubs, from the Juniperus genus in the cypress family, are evergreen conifers found across the Northern Hemisphere. Ranging from ground-hugging creepers to trees up to 50 feet tall, they thrive in zones 2-10, adapting to rocky, dry, or poor soils with full sun. Their resilience makes them a landscaping staple worldwide. Their … Read more
Pineapples (Ananas comosus) are tropical fruits native to South America, specifically the region between southern Brazil and Paraguay, where Indigenous peoples domesticated them centuries ago. Now grown worldwide in zones 9-12, they thrive in warm, sunny climates with well-drained, acidic soil. A single plant yields one fruit after 18-24 months, making them a slow but … Read more
Hawthorn trees, from the Crataegus genus, are small to medium-sized deciduous trees or shrubs, typically growing 15-40 feet tall across zones 3-9. Native to temperate regions, they’re known for thorny branches, lobed leaves, and a hardy nature, thriving in full sun and a range of soils. Their versatility makes them staples in hedges, woodlands, and … Read more
Creeping thyme, a low-growing perennial from the Thymus genus, is a garden favorite prized for its versatility and charm. Typically reaching just 1-6 inches tall, it spreads horizontally, forming dense mats of tiny, aromatic leaves that release a pleasant scent when stepped on or brushed. Hardy across various zones, it thrives in full sun and … Read more
Plants with high nicotine content are a fascinating group, producing this alkaloid as a natural defense against pests and herbivores. Found across various families, these species range from those cultivated for their potent leaves to wild varieties thriving in harsh environments, with nicotine levels varying from trace amounts to several percent by weight. Their chemical … Read more
Indoor plants that excel at producing oxygen are vital for enhancing air quality in homes and offices. These green companions use photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, with some even working overtime at night thanks to a special process that keeps them efficient in low-light conditions. Their ability to thrive indoors makes them perfect … Read more