How to grow Convolvulus (kon-volvu-lus) From the Latin convolvo, to entwine, as some of the species do (Convolvulaceae). A valuable race of plants both annual and perennial, herbaceous or sub-shrubby. Flowers are bell-shaped throughout and highly attractive. Hardy perennial species cultivated C. althaeo ides, 1-2 feet, pink flowers, summer. C. cantabrica, 1 foot, pink flowers, mid to late summer. C. […]

How to grow Centaurea (sen-taw-re-a) From the classical myths of Greece; the plant is said to have healed a wound in the foot of Chiron, one of the Centaurs (Compositae). A genus of annual and perennial plants with flowers not unlike those of a thistle in structure. The annuals (cornflowers and sweet sultana) are good for cutting; some species of […]

How to grow Catananche (kat-an-an-kee) From the Greek katananke, a strong incentive, referring to its use in love potions (Compositae). A small genus of annuals or perennials of which C. caerulea is the only species likely to be found in cultivation. This is commonly known as Cupid’s dart or blue cupidone and was introduced in 1596. It is a hardy […]

How to grow Campanula (kam-pan-u-la) From the Latin campanula, a little bell, hence the common name, Bellflower (Campanulaceae). A large genus of annuals, biennials and perennials for growing in the border, wild garden, rock garden and greenhouse; widely distributed over the Northern Hemisphere. Border species cultivated C. x burghaltii, 2-i feet, large lavender bells, June and July, sandy soil. C. […]

How to grow Callirrhoe (kal-ir-ho-ee) Named after Callirhoe, one of the Greek goddesses (Malvaceae). Poppy mallow. This North American genus has both annual and perennial species. The flowers are saucer shaped and of red hues, which are brilliant in sunshine. They need an open, sunny position. Species cultivated C. involucrata, the Buffalo rose, 9 inches, flowers crimson, 2 inches across. […]

How to grow Bellis (bel-lis) From the Latin bellus, pretty, handsome (Compositae). The double daisy, a garden variety of one of our commonest wild plants, was cultivated in Elizabethan gardens side by side with double forms of the native buttercup. The original name was `day’s eye’ as the little plant opened or closed according to the light. Species cultivated B. […]

Starlike flowers, hence the name from the Greek aster, a star (Umbelliferae). Masterwort. Summer-flowering perennials with fascinating papery-looking flowers in shades of green, white and pink The actual flowers are insignificant but they are surrounded by parchment-like bracts that give them colour. They make excellent and unusual cut flowers. Species cultivated A. biebersteinii, 2 feet, flowers light lilac. A. carinthiaca, […]

How to grow Althaea (al-the-a) Referring to its medicinal use, from the Greek althaea, to cure (Malvaceae). genus of easily grown plants comprising annuals, biennials and perennials. Biennial species cultivated A. ficifolia (fig-leaved or Antwerp hollyhock), to 6 feet, single or double flowers in spikes of mostly yellow, June. A. rosea, hollyhock, erect-growing, to 9 feet or sometimes a good […]

10 Vegetables to Grow. Growing Vegetables Growing 10 vegetables for your garden. Types of vegetables to use with names and lessons learned in growing these vegetables. Acanthus Perennial Acanthus Perennial When to plant, where to plant, what plant to use and cooking ideas. Finally a single source for the backyard gardener. Achillea Perennial Plant, How to grow Achillea How to […]