Evergreen

"Evergreen" refers to plants that retain their leaves or foliage throughout the year, maintaining their green colour even during the winter or dry seasons. Unlike deciduous plants that shed their leaves in response to seasonal changes, evergreen plants have adapted to keep their leaves functional year-round.

Sweet flag (Acorus)

Acorus, commonly known as sweet flag or calamus, is a genus of perennial plants in the Acoraceae family.

Acorus plants have long, strap-like leaves that arise from a central base. The leaves are typically green or variegated, with distinct veins running along their length. The foliage exudes a pleasant, sweet fragrance when crushed or bruised, adding to their appeal. The leaves are often sword-shaped or lanceolate and form dense clumps, creating an attractive visual effect.

One of the notable features of Acorus is its ability to thrive in wet environments. These plants are well-adapted to grow in marshes, bogs, and along water edges, where their roots can tolerate waterlogged conditions. Acorus species play an important role in wetland ecosystems, providing erosion control, habitat for wildlife, and water purification benefits.

Cultivating Acorus is relatively straightforward, especially in wet or moist areas of the garden. They prefer full sun to partial shade and soil that is consistently moist or even submerged in water. Acorus can be propagated by division of clumps or through planting rhizomes.

In conclusion, Acorus, or sweet flag, is a unique genus of wetland plants appreciated for their aromatic foliage, ecological contributions, and cultural significance.

Plum (Prunus)

Prunus is a diverse genus of flowering trees and shrubs in the Rosaceae family, encompassing numerous species that are valued for their ornamental beauty, delicious fruits, and cultural significance. This genus includes well-known trees such as cherries, plums, peaches, apricots, and almonds, among others.

Prunus species exhibit a wide range of growth habits, leaf shapes, flower colours, and fruit characteristics. The trees typically have deciduous foliage, although a few species are evergreen. The leaves can be simple or compound, with serrated or smooth margins. Prunus trees are renowned for their stunning blossoms, which appear in early spring and create breathtaking displays of white, pink, or red flowers, depending on the species.

One of the most prized attributes of Prunus trees is their fruit. The fruits of this genus are widely enjoyed for their delicious flavours and are commonly consumed fresh or used in various culinary preparations.

Prunus trees are cultivated in a wide range of climates and soils. Most species prefer well-drained soil and full sun to ensure optimal growth and fruit production. Pruning is often practiced to shape the tree, encourage proper airflow, and maintain overall health.

Overall, Prunus represents a diverse and beloved genus of trees, known for their beautiful blossoms, delectable fruits, and cultural significance.

Vinca, commonly known as periwinkle, is a genus of flowering plants in the Apocynaceae family. Native to Europe, North Africa, and southwest Asia, Vinca species are popular ornamental plants known for their attractive flowers, glossy leaves, and ability to thrive in various growing conditions. These plants are commonly used in garden landscapes, borders, and ground cover plantings.

Vinca plants are low-growing, evergreen perennials with trailing or spreading growth habits. They typically reach heights of 15 to 30 centimetres, forming dense mats of foliage. The leaves are oval or lance-shaped, smooth-textured, and glossy, creating an appealing backdrop for the vibrant flowers.

The flowers of Vinca are star-shaped and appear in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white, depending on the species and cultivar. They often have a contrasting central eye or throat, adding to their charm. The blooms appear throughout the growing season, providing continuous colour and interest to the landscape.

One of the key attributes of Vinca is its ability to tolerate various growing conditions, including both full sun and shade.

Vinca is highly valued as a ground cover plant due to its ability to form dense, weed-suppressing mats of foliage. Once established, it effectively prevents soil erosion and helps to smother out competing weeds. Its low-growing nature makes it suitable for filling in spaces between taller plants and for creating attractive, low-maintenance garden beds.

Cultivating Vinca is relatively easy. These plants prefer well-drained soil and require moderate watering. Once established, they have good drought tolerance. Vinca can be propagated by division or from stem cuttings, making it a straightforward plant to propagate and share.

Red tree (rhododendron)

Rhododendron is a genus of flowering plants in the family Ericaceae, encompassing a diverse group of evergreen or deciduous shrubs and trees. Rhododendrons are highly esteemed for their stunning flowers, wide range of colours, and lush foliage. With thousands of species and cultivars, they are beloved in gardens and landscapes around the world.

The rhododendron's most notable feature is its vibrant and showy flowers.  Rhododendron flowers come in an array of colours, including shades of white, pink, red, purple, and even yellow.

The leaves of rhododendrons are typically dark green, leathery, and glossy. They may be large or small, depending on the species, and contribute to the plant's year-round appeal. Some varieties also exhibit attractive fall foliage, with leaves turning shades of yellow, orange, and bronze.

Rhododendrons are native to various regions, including Asia, Europe, North America, and the Himalayas. They thrive in different climates, from cool temperate zones to subtropical regions. Cultivation requirements vary among species, but most rhododendrons prefer acidic, well-draining soil and partial shade to protect them from intense sunlight and heat.

The genus Rhododendron encompasses both large shrubs and small trees, with sizes ranging from a few centimetres to several meters in height. Some varieties have a compact growth habit, making them suitable for smaller gardens or container planting. 

Photinia is a genus of evergreen shrubs and small trees in the Rosaceae family, known for their vibrant foliage, showy flowers, and ornamental value. Native to Asia and North America, Photinia species are widely cultivated for their attractive leaves and ability to provide privacy hedges, windbreaks, or focal points in garden landscapes.

One of the standout features of Photinia is its stunning foliage. The leaves are typically oval-shaped or lanceolate, and they emerge in shades of bright red, bronze, or coppery tones. As the leaves mature, they gradually transition to deep green, creating a striking contrast.

Photinia plants produce clusters of small, white flowers in spring or early summer.

Photinia species generally prefer well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. They are relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil types.

Photinia is often used as a hedging or screening plant due to its dense growth habit and the striking colour contrast it offers.

Cultivating Photinia usually involves regular watering, particularly during dry periods, to ensure optimal growth and foliage development. Pruning is often performed to shape the plants, remove dead or damaged branches, and promote bushier growth. Regular pruning can also help maintain the vibrant red or coppery new growth, as pruning stimulates fresh foliage.

In conclusion, Photinia is a versatile and visually appealing genus of shrubs and small trees prized for their vibrant foliage and ornamental value.

Spindletree (Euonymus)

Euonymus is a diverse genus of flowering shrubs and vines in the family Celastraceae. Native to various regions around the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America, Euonymus species are valued for their ornamental beauty, attractive foliage, and hardiness. These plants are commonly used in garden landscapes, hedges, and container plantings.

Euonymus plants exhibit a wide range of growth habits, leaf shapes, and foliage colours, making them versatile and attractive additions to the garden.

One of the notable features of Euonymus is their colourful autumn foliage. Many species undergo a stunning transformation in fall, turning shades of vibrant red, orange, yellow, or purple. This autumnal display brings a burst of colour to the garden, extending the beauty of the plants throughout the seasons.

Euonymus plants produce small, inconspicuous flowers, usually green or white.

Cultivating Euonymus is generally straightforward, as these plants are adaptable and relatively low-maintenance. They prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. Euonymus shrubs are generally hardy and can withstand different climatic conditions, including heat, cold, and drought. Regular watering and occasional pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches are typically sufficient for their care.

In conclusion, Euonymus is a diverse genus of shrubs and vines admired for their ornamental beauty, attractive foliage, and autumn colours.

Nandina, also known as heavenly bamboo or sacred bamboo, is a genus of ornamental shrubs in the family Berberidaceae. Native to eastern Asia, particularly China and Japan.

These evergreen or semi-evergreen shrubs are widely cultivated for their ornamental beauty and versatility in garden landscapes.

Nandina plants are known for their distinctive growth habit and appearance. They typically have slender, bamboo-like stems that grow upright or slightly arching.

Nandina plants are known for their adaptability and ease of cultivation. They are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, from well-drained to clay soils. Nandina is also tolerant of different light levels, from full sun to partial shade, although it tends to display the best foliage colouration in sunnier locations.

Another notable characteristic of Nandina is its resistance to pests and diseases. These plants are generally quite hardy, with good tolerance to drought and heat once established.

In conclusion, Nandina, or heavenly bamboo, is a versatile and visually appealing genus of shrubs highly valued for their attractive foliage, colourful berries, and architectural form.

Coleonema, commonly known as confetti bush or breath of heaven, is a genus of flowering shrubs in the Rutaceae family. Native to South Africa, Coleonema species are renowned for their fine-textured foliage, aromatic scent, and profusion of delicate flowers. These shrubs are popular choices for adding colour and fragrance to garden landscapes.

Coleonema plants are generally compact, evergreen shrubs with a bushy growth habit. They typically reach heights of 1 to 2 meters, with slender branches covered in small, needle-like leaves.

One of the distinctive features of Coleonema is its profusion of small, star-shaped flowers that adorn the shrub. The flowers can appear in clusters or singly, depending on the species and cultivar. They come in a range of colours, including pink, white, or shades of purple, adding a splash of colour to the garden.

Coleonema is highly valued for its ability to thrive in challenging growing conditions. These shrubs are known for their tolerance to drought, wind, and salt spray, making them suitable for coastal gardens and regions with harsh climates. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade, although they tend to display their best growth and flowering in sunny locations.

Cultivating Coleonema is relatively straightforward. These shrubs require minimal maintenance, although regular pruning can help maintain their shape and promote denser growth. Pruning is typically done after flowering, as Coleonema blooms on older wood. Light pruning or pinching back the tips of the branches can encourage bushier growth and more abundant flowering.

In conclusion, Coleonema, or confetti bush, is a genus of flowering shrubs highly regarded for their fine-textured foliage, aromatic scent, and colourful flowers.

Hebe is a genus of evergreen shrubs native to New Zealand, with a few species found in Australia and South America. These popular ornamental plants are highly regarded for their attractive foliage, showy flowers, and compact growth habit. With a wide range of cultivars and species available, Hebe offers a diverse array of options for garden landscapes.

Hebe plants typically have small to medium-sized leaves that are glossy and often colourful, ranging from shades of green and gray to bronze, purple, or variegated patterns.

One of the notable features of Hebe is its profusion of flowers. The blooms are usually arranged in dense spikes or clusters and come in a variety of colours, including white, pink, purple, or blue.

They are often used as low hedges, border plants, or as colourful additions to mixed plantings.

Cultivating Hebe is relatively easy, as these plants are generally low-maintenance. They prefer well-drained soil and thrive in full sun to partial shade. Hebe plants are typically drought-tolerant once established, but benefit from regular watering during dry periods to maintain optimal growth and flowering. Pruning can be done after flowering to maintain a neat shape and promote bushier growth.

Hebe is also known for its adaptability to various climates and soil conditions.

Fatsia, also known as Japanese aralia or false castor oil plant, is a genus of evergreen shrubs in the family Araliaceae. Native to East Asia, primarily Japan and South Korea, Fatsia species are popular ornamental plants valued for their large, glossy leaves and architectural presence. These plants are commonly used in gardens and landscapes to create tropical or exotic vibes.

Fatsia plants typically have large, palmate leaves that resemble those of a castor oil plant, hence the common name "false castor oil plant." The leaves are deeply lobed with 7 to 9 leaflets, giving them an attractive and tropical appearance. The foliage is leathery and glossy, ranging in colour from deep green to variegated forms with white or yellow markings.

One of the notable features of Fatsia is its ability to thrive in shade or partial shade conditions. Fatsia plants can tolerate a range of soil types but prefer well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist.

Cultivating Fatsia is relatively easy, as these plants are generally low-maintenance. They require regular watering, particularly during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist. Fatsia can benefit from occasional fertilization to support healthy growth, especially when grown in containers. Pruning can be done to control the size and shape of the plant, and it's best to prune in early spring before new growth emerges.

Its shade tolerance makes it suitable for growing in shaded areas where other plants may struggle.

In conclusion, Fatsia, or Japanese aralia, is an attractive genus of evergreen shrubs known for their large, glossy leaves and tropical appearance.

Ceanothus is a genus of flowering shrubs and small trees in the family Rhamnaceae, commonly known as California lilac or wild lilac. Native to North America, particularly California and parts of the western United States, Ceanothus species are highly regarded for their vibrant blue, purple, or white flowers, attractive foliage, and ecological importance.

Ceanothus plants are known for their dense clusters of small, delicate flowers that cover the shrubs in spring or early summer. The flowers are usually blue or purple, although some species have white or pink blooms.

Ceanothus is well-suited to dry, Mediterranean-like climates and thrives in full sun to partial shade. These plants are typically drought-tolerant once established and prefer well-draining soil. However, some Ceanothus species are adaptable to a range of soil types and moisture conditions, including clay soil and coastal environments.

Ceanothus plays an important ecological role as well. They are host plants for various butterfly species, providing essential habitat and food sources for caterpillars. Additionally, Ceanothus plants have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, which enriches the soil with nitrogen and contributes to ecosystem health.

Cultivating Ceanothus requires minimal maintenance. Regular watering is necessary during the establishment phase, but once established, these plants generally require little supplemental irrigation. Pruning is typically done after flowering to maintain a compact shape and remove dead or damaged branches. It's important to note that Ceanothus has a sensitive root system, so care should be taken not to disturb the roots during planting or maintenance activities.

Cistus, commonly known as rockrose, is a genus of flowering shrubs in the family Cistaceae. Native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Western Asia, Cistus species are highly regarded for their beautiful, papery flowers, drought tolerance, and aromatic foliage.

Cistus plants are known for their delicate, saucer-shaped flowers that appear in abundance during the spring and summer months. The flowers come in a range of colours, including white, pink, purple, or yellow, and some species exhibit distinctive maroon or crimson markings at the centre.

The foliage of Cistus is typically small, with leaves that are evergreen or semi-evergreen, depending on the species and climate. The leaves are often lance-shaped or oval and have a slightly resinous texture.

Cistus is well-adapted to dry and sunny conditions, making it suitable for gardens with low water availability. These plants are highly drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in poor, sandy or rocky soils.

Cultivating Cistus is generally straightforward. These shrubs prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Once established, they require little to no supplemental watering, except during prolonged dry periods. Pruning is typically done after flowering to remove spent flowers and promote bushier growth. It's important to note that Cistus can be sensitive to cold temperatures and may require protection or shelter in regions with severe winters.

Buxus, commonly known as boxwood, is a genus of evergreen shrubs and small trees in the family Buxaceae. Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, Buxus species are highly regarded for their dense, compact growth habit, glossy foliage, and versatility in garden landscapes.

Buxus plants are known for their small, opposite leaves that are oval-shaped or lanceolate. The leaves are typically dark green and have a smooth, glossy texture. Some Buxus species and cultivars exhibit variegated foliage with cream or yellow margins, adding further visual interest to the plants.

One of the standout features of Buxus is its ability to be easily shaped and pruned. These plants have a dense growth habit and respond well to trimming, making them popular choices for formal hedges, topiaries, and geometric designs. Buxus can be pruned into various shapes, from simple spheres or cubes to intricate designs, allowing gardeners to create tailored and artistic elements in their landscapes.

Buxus is adaptable to a range of growing conditions. They prefer well-draining soil and thrive in full sun to partial shade. Buxus is known for its tolerance to shade, making it suitable for areas with limited sunlight. These plants are also relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefit from regular watering, particularly during dry spells, to maintain optimal growth and health.

Cultivating Buxus requires regular maintenance to ensure its desired shape and health. Pruning is necessary to maintain the desired size and form, and it is typically done in late spring or early summer. Buxus is generally a long-lived plant, and with proper care, it can thrive for many years.

Acacia is a large genus of flowering trees and shrubs in the Fabaceae family, commonly known as acacias or wattles. With over 1,000 known species, Acacia is native to various regions around the world, including Africa, Australia, and the Americas.

Acacia plants display a wide range of growth habits, depending on the species. They can be tall, erect trees or low-growing shrubs. The leaves of Acacia are typically small and compound, with multiple leaflets arranged along the stem. Some species have modified leaf structures called phyllodes, which are flattened leaf stalks that function like leaves.

One of the notable features of Acacia is its showy flowers. The blooms are typically small and clustered into spherical or elongated inflorescences, and they come in various colours, including yellow, cream, white, or pink. The blooming period varies depending on the species and location.

Cultivating Acacia depends on the specific species and its environmental preferences. Generally, Acacia plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil. They are often adapted to dry or arid conditions and have good drought tolerance once established. However, certain species have different moisture requirements, and it's important to select the appropriate species for the specific growing conditions.

Pieris, commonly known as Andromeda or Lily of the Valley shrub, is a genus of evergreen shrubs in the Ericaceae family. Native to Asia and North America, Pieris species are highly regarded for their attractive foliage, graceful form, and showy clusters of flowers. These plants are popular choices for garden landscapes, particularly in woodland or shade gardens.

Pieris plants typically have dense, compact growth habits with oval-shaped or lanceolate leaves.

One of the notable features of Pieris is its profusion of flowers. The blooms appear in clusters or drooping racemes, depending on the species, and they usually emerge in early spring. The flowers are often bell-shaped and come in shades of white, pink, or cream, creating an elegant display.

Pieris is well-adapted to partial shade or dappled sunlight conditions. These plants thrive in woodland settings or sheltered areas that provide some protection from harsh sun exposure. They prefer well-draining, acidic soil rich in organic matter, similar to their natural forest habitat. Pieris plants are typically hardy and can withstand colder climates, making them suitable for a range of garden environments.

Cultivating Pieris requires some care to ensure optimal growth and health. These shrubs benefit from regular watering, particularly during dry spells, to maintain consistent soil moisture. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth. Pruning is typically done after flowering to maintain a neat shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.