Peruvian Lily
Imagine a plant that blooms most of the year in red, pink, rose, orchid, purple, maroon, burgundy, orange and yellow, yet needs little attention. Imag...
Category Archives: Rhizomes
Rhizomes
At first glance, it would appear that we humans have it much easier than plants. If we find ourselves in a place we don’t like, all we have to do is pick ourselves up and move to another spot. ...
Clivia Anchors Late Winter-Early Spring Shade Garden
Q: Last fall, I separated and transplanted three Clivia miniata that a friend gave me. I planted them in front of a pine tree. They get morning sun, and are in the shade by about 11 a.m. But they are...
Hellebores — heavenly and far from boring
The best part about writing a garden column is the opportunity it provides for spreading the word about wonderful plants that most people know nothing about. Indeed, it should come as no surprise if ...
Going to War Against Spiderwort
For years, I have been at war with the common spiderwort (Commelina communis). Although it is, at times, a bitter battle, I must confess to stopping and stepping back, every now and then, simply to a...
After the Rain . . . Peruvian Lilies
The reason Valley gardeners appreciate rain is not only because it relieves our constant concern about getting sufficient water to our plants. Rain makes plants more attractive and healthy, giving th...
Everything You Need to Know About Bird of Paradise
If you want to make some easy money, grow the bird of paradise. This is the official flower of the city of Los Angeles, the flower that is as much a part of living here as traffic. It can bloo...
Birds of Paradise: Loved and Loathed
It is horticulturally significant that both the official flower and the official tree of Los Angeles are native to South Africa. The Los Angeles city flower is the bird of paradise and the Los Angele...
Horseradish and Slavery
If you’re Jewish, you really should plant horseradish – in the ground or in a pot – near your front door. Jews are obligated to continually remember the bitterness of their bondage ...
