Common name:Giant Bird Of Paradise
Botanical name:Strelitzia nicolai
This clumping evergreen perennial can reach 25' tall fairly quickly, forming a false trunk from the base of the leaves. The leaves are shaped like bananas, reaching 10' long with the widest part reaching 5' . It does best with fertilizer once a month and rich soil. It does not like wet feet so water only when dry. It can be planted in full sun but will do better if it receives afternoon shade. The flowers can reach a size of 10"-12", but plants need to be a few years old before they will flower.
Common name:Scarlet Trumpet Vine
Botanical name:Distictis buccinatoria
This evergreen vine is highlighted by large, blood red, trumpet-shaped flowers with a yellow throat. These flowers will continue to appear throughout the warm months.
Common name:Hybrid Tea Rose (selections)
Botanical name:Rosa Hybrid Tea varieties
These shrubs and vines are the most loved in the Western USA and are very resilient. They come in a wide variety of sizes and colors and are easy to maintain with proper care. They can be used in a water-conserving garden with careful attention to irrigation practices.
Common name:Giant Bird Of Paradise
Botanical name:Strelitzia nicolai
This clumping evergreen perennial can reach 25' tall fairly quickly, forming a false trunk from the base of the leaves. The leaves are shaped like bananas, reaching 10' long with the widest part reaching 5' . It does best with fertilizer once a month and rich soil. It does not like wet feet so water only when dry. It can be planted in full sun but will do better if it receives afternoon shade. The flowers can reach a size of 10"-12", but plants need to be a few years old before they will flower.
Common name:Dragon Tree
Botanical name:Dracaena draco
This evergreen is similar to a palm tree and will grow 30' high and 20' wide. It produces clusters of green white flowers on the end of the branches and also produces orange berries. It has a very distinct appearance when mature.
Common name:Bower Vine
Botanical name:Pandorea jasminoides
Pandorea is a very classy vine, with clean glossy leaves and beautiful pink flowers with red centers. It is a terrific patio plant that is elegant anywhere you use it.
Common name:Munstead Dwarf Lavender
Botanical name:Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead'
While this hybrid is half the size of the standard angustifolia, it flowers early and has a more intense flower color than most of the species. Its foliage and flowers are good for sachets. This is a perfect choice for smaller scale situations. It is drought tolerant and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.
Photographer: GardenSoft
Incorporate compost 6" into your soil to retain water, reduce compaction, feed earthworms, and provide valuable nutrients to your plants.
Attract, or buy beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pest outbreaks in your garden.