Aeonium is a genus whose species are prized as some of the most ornamental succulents, with foliage that ranges from vivid chartreuse to nearly black, and that's... more »
In the desert landscape, the agave is unrivaled when it comes to sculptural beauty and character — and it has a bonus culinary value. Native to the Southwest United States and Mexico, agaves typically thrive in climates similar to those found there:... more »
Low-water landscapes filled with colorful succulents continue to surge in popularity as architects and nurseries discover extraordinary species and hybrids. Topping the list as one of the most popular are "hens-and-chicks," a common name given to two... more »
Heavy rains and prime growing conditions may be in the forecast for gardens across the country, to the delight of the gardeners everywhere. Yet every year, October still manages to be a season with devastating fires and drought for some parts... more »
A landscape of succulents tops my list of favorites, but sometimes a little variation from the tight rosettes that define their silhouette is necessary for a... more »
Deserts are some of the most extreme environments our blue planet offers. While they may bring to mind extreme isolation, a blatant lack of hospitality and boredom, we should reconsider our position and visit, at least in photos, some dry and remote locales... more »
Peeking through the cracks of California's cliffs, along rocky outcroppings and inland valleys is another remarkable genus of succulents: Dudleya. Native to California, Arizona and even down to northern Mexico and up to southern coastal Oregon,... more »
Just because this plant enjoys the spotlight around the holidays, don't forget to enjoy it year-round — its striking form and foliage are difficult to find in any other plant. You might be wondering why I'm writing about Thanksgiving cactus now. The... more »
Donkey Spurge isn't the nicest of names, but the plant is quite pretty in its own quirky way. It is a wonderful gray-green, with a lovely blue tint that blends with everything. The surprise in spring is the lime-green tops that celebrate new growth... more »
Succulents are architectural and clean-textured garden accents, adding modern funk and humor to your planting palette. Milk bush (Euphorbia tirucalli), also known as pencil tree, takes that description to the extreme. With its open structure and... more »
Between the scorching summer sun and extended vacations, it's probably not a surprise when your outdoor plants start looking like they need a little love. Instead of paying the neighbor kids to keep your vegetation hydrated every time you hit the beach,... more »
Bring the vivid shades of summer into the garden with sedum. Prolific blooms earn notice in summer months, but bold evergreen foliage solidifies this diverse genus of succulents as year-round eye catchers in the garden. Choose from fluorescent fleshy... more »
While walking through my local garden center the other day, I was struck by the beauty of succulents. The colors and textures of the plants are so diverse and stunning that it's easy to see why many people have embraced their use indoors in terrariums.... more »
A design darling of low-water landscapes everywhere, Euphorbia is a plant for every season and all occasions. With more than 2,000 species identified in the genus, available colors, sizes and growing needs are limitless. Comprising mostly succulents and... more »
Even if you don't have time to care for a full-fledged garden, you can still have a little green in your life. Houseplants and window boxes are common solutions, but wreaths and garlands are often overlooked after Christmas. Try crafting a living wreath... more »