Amwoga Khalwale

Kale, scientifically classified under Brassica oleracea (Acephala group) and occasionally Brassica napus, is a leafy vegetable in the cabbage family, native to the eastern Mediterranean and Asia Minor, where it’s been cultivated since at least 2000 BCE. Unlike its headed relatives like cabbage, kale lacks a central head, instead producing loose, textured leaves that range … Read more

Marigolds, predominantly from the genus Tagetes, are a group of flowering plants native to the Americas, with a strong presence in Mexico and Central America, where they’ve thrived for centuries before spreading globally. With over 50 recognized species, they’re celebrated for their vivid hues—yellows, oranges, reds, and occasional whites—produced by annuals (and some perennials in … Read more

Kumquats are small, citrus fruits native to South Asia and the Asia-Pacific region. Unlike most citrus fruits, you can eat them whole—skin and all. Their bright orange color and oval shape make them visually similar to tiny oranges, but they’re distinct in flavor and texture. The peel of a kumquat is surprisingly sweet, while the … Read more

Jacaranda trees, from the Jacaranda genus in the Bignoniaceae family, are tropical and subtropical beauties renowned for their vibrant blooms. Native to Central and South America, they thrive in zones 9-12, growing 10-100 feet tall with spreading canopies. Their fast growth and stunning flowers make them global favorites. In spring to summer, jacarandas erupt in … Read more

Ninebark shrubs (Physocarpus opulifolius), native to eastern North America, are deciduous plants prized for their peeling, multi-layered bark and rugged charm. Growing 3-10 feet tall in zones 2-8, they adapt to full sun or part shade and a range of soils, from clay to sandy. Their versatility suits hedges, borders, or standalone features. Foliage is … Read more

Bamboo plants, from the Bambusoideae subfamily within the grass family (Poaceae), are woody perennials known for rapid growth—some species add inches daily. Found in zones 5-12, they range from 1-foot dwarfs to 100-foot giants, thriving in diverse climates with sun or shade and well-drained soil. Their versatility spans gardens to industry. These plants come in … Read more

Privet 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