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Botany - Flower terms Category: Animals and Nature > Botany Date & country: 09/09/2007, USA. Words: 2228

Gentian
(Gentiana) Gentiana is a group of annuals, biennials and perennials that are found in the temperate, alpine and arctic regions in various parts of the world. These plants mostly produce various shades of blue flowers, but some produce white or yellow flowers. G. lutea (Great Yellow Gentian) is an upright growing perennial with large, lance- to elliptic-shaped, bluish-green leaves. The small, star-shaped, yellow flowers grow from the upper leaf axils in compact, whorled clusters with cupped, gree…

Gentian Sage
(Salvia) This is a large group of hardy and tender perennials, annuals and shrubs. They are found wild in South America, southern Europe, northern Africa and North America. Salvia belong to the Mint family, Labiatae. The name is derived from salveo, to save, and refers to the medicinal value the plants were thought to possess. These plants grow 1 to 3 feet high and form branched clumps. Their leaves are ovate or lanceolate, 2 to 4 inches long. The flowers form on spikes that grow above th…

Gentiana
(Gentian) Gentiana is a group of annuals, biennials and perennials that are found in the temperate, alpine and arctic regions in various parts of the world. These plants mostly produce various shades of blue flowers, but some produce white or yellow flowers. G. lutea (Great Yellow Gentian) is an upright growing perennial with large, lance- to elliptic-shaped, bluish-green leaves. The small, star-shaped, yellow flowers grow from the upper leaf axils in compact, whorled clusters with cupped, green…

Geranium
This group of hardy perennials is found in the temperature regions of Europe, North America and other various parts of the world. This group shouldn't be confused with the 'Geraniums' that are grown in pots for greenhouse or home decoration, or for summer bedding; the name 'Geranium' is the common name for the plants known botanically as Pelargoniums (go see). The Geraniums we will discuss here are commonly known as Cranesbills. These plants range in height between the varieties from 1 to 4 feet…

Geranium Leaf Aralia
(Polyscias) This group consists of about 80 tropical shrubs and trees that are native to New Zealand, tropical Asia and the Pacific Islands. They are excellent as houseplants in cold climates and as hedges in very warm ones. These plants are also excellent as Bonsai specimens. These plants are valued for their decorative foliage, which is finely divided and in some species, beautifully variegated. P. fruticosa (Ming Aralia) can grow up to 8 feet high (though it can be kept small by pruning) and …

Gerbera
(Barberton Daisy, Transvaal Daisy) These herbaceous plants are found in South Africa. The fuzzy leaves grow in a rosette close to the soil and are lance-shaped, deeply lobed and about 12 inches long. During the summer, these plants bear many orange-scarlet flowers that resemble daisies atop a long stalk. There are many hybrids that come in white, cream, yellow, orange-pink, crimson, purple or violet. These plants are usually grown in greenhouses and are used for cut flowers, but in mild climates…

German Chamomile
(Matricaria) These hardy annuals and perennials are natives of the Mediterranean region, South Africa and the Orient, and are naturalized in North America. They grow from 1 to 2 feet high and have feathery foliage. They produce terminal clusters of small flowers, which resemble daisies. M. inodora is an annual that has white flowers. M. Tchihatchewii, the Turfing Daisy, is a mat-forming plant that grows 6 to 12 inches high. M. recutita, Sweet False Chamomile or German Chamomile, is an annual tha…

German Ivy
(Senecio) This is a large group of hardy and tender annuals and perennials that may have shrubby, herbaceous, or climbing growth. Senecios are found wild in almost every country, especially in southern Europe; others are found in South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, China, Japan, the United States and Mexico. They vary in size and shape, particularly their foliage, but almost all have yellow or purple flowers, which resemble daisies and grow up to 3 inches across. They grow in thick trusses ove…

Geum
Several of these pretty flowers are found naturally in Canada and the U.S., but those especially valued in gardens are natives of South America and the Near East. Geums (Avens) grow from 1 to 2 feet high; some are great for the herbaceous border and some are suitable for the rock garden. G. 'Lady Strathenden' forms clumps of large, lobed, medium green leaves that are heart-shaped at the base. Its bright yellow, double flowers are cup-shaped and produced on arching, branching stems, during the su…

Ghost Brambles
(Rubus) Rubus belongs to the Rose family. This group consists of erect, arching or trailing, deciduous and evergreen shrubs found wild in Europe, North America and Asia. Some are very ornamental, while most are grown for their edible fruits. Of the varieties, the most popular are R. idaeus vulgatus, commonly known as the European Raspberry, R. idaeus var. strigosus, the American Raspberry, R. occidentalis, the Black Raspberry, Blackcap, or Thimbleberry, and the Raspberry's cousin, the Blackberry…

Ghost Tree
(Davidia) This very attractive, deciduous tree is a native of China. This tree grows from 20 to 40 feet high with its branches spreading a distance to match. It is fairly hardy, living in areas where the temperature doesn't fall below -10º F. It produces 3- to 6-inch, heart-shaped, long-stalked leaves that are covered with white fuzz on their undersides. This tree is commonly known as Dove Tree because of its interesting flowers. In the spring, 1-inch, ball-shaped, clusters of flowers are produc…

Giant Cactus
(Carnegiea) This group consists of only one, giant cactus native to the southwestern U.S. and northwest Mexico. C. gigantea (Candelabra Cactus; Giant Cactus; and Saguaro or Sahuaro) is one of the largest of the Cactus family. In the wild, the Saguaro Cactus usually forms large colonies. It is a home to many birds and is popularly used as scenery in movies. This cactus takes up to 150 years to grow into a plant 40 feet tall, eventually reaching a height of 50 feet or more with a trunk up to 2 fee…

Giant Club
(Cereus) This popular group of cacti from South America consists of about 60 species. These vigorous-growing, mostly columnar-shaped cacti are easy to grow and make excellent container plants when small. Outdoors, when used as landscaping plants, these cacti will usually reach a height of 30 feet or more, growing up to 4 feet per year. Some branch at the top, resembling a candelabrum; others branch close to the base. In the spring or summer, their funnel-shaped flowers open at night closing as t…

Giant Fern
(Angiopteris) 100 species of a very large primitive ferns.…

Giant Maidenhair Fern
(Adiantum) There are many kinds of Adiantum, commonly called Maidenhair Ferns. Most of them are natives of tropical countries, but two are hardy and can be grown outside in the North. One hardy kind is A. pedatum, native of North America. Its graceful fronds grow 18 to 24 inches long. They flourish in shade and woodsy soil made by adding leaf mold and sand. This plant is great for clumping in cool, shady spots in the wild garden and rock garden. A. Capillus-Veneris is another fern that's h…

Giant Spined Barrel
(Ferocactus) This group consists of about 35 cacti found across the southwest U.S. and northern Mexico. They are excellent for growing in containers on patios and in greenhouses or as landscape plants. When young, they are usually globular shaped, though they eventually become columnar with age, some species gradually reaching a height of up to 13 feet. In the summer, large, bell- or funnel-shaped flowers are produced at the plant's crown. These are usually followed by sticky, yellow berries. Th…

Gilia
(Globe Gilia) These annuals are found growing wild over various parts of North America. They are erect or sprawling and 2 to 3 feet high. The foliage is finely cut and mostly toward the base of the plant. The flowers grow in thick spheres up to an inch across atop long, wiry stems. The flowers may be sky blue, white, pink, lilac, or lavender-mauve.…

Gill-Over-The-Ground
(Nepeta) This is a large group of hardy herbaceous plants, of which few are in cultivation. They are found wild in parts of Europe and Asia and some are naturalized in North America. N. Faassenii, the Mauve Catmint, is a popular kind that has somewhat spreading growth. Their thin stems are covered with gray leaves and it produces a lot of small lavender-blue or pale mauve flowers mainly in June. When in full bloom, Catmint reaches a height of 18 inches. N. Cataria, Catnip, is the well-known trea…

Gillenia
These perennials are found wild in northeast North America. They are commonly known as Bowmans Root and Indian Physic. G. trifoliata forms upright clumps of olive-green leaves, which are divided into oval-oblong leaflets. They turn red in the fall. The dainty, white flowers have 5 thin petals and grow on wiry, red stems in the summer. This plant grows 3 or 4 feet high with a spread of 2 feet.…

Gillyflower
(Dianthus) This group of hardy plants includes Pinks, Carnations and Sweet Williams. The Carnation is the descendent of D. Caryophyllus; it grows wild in southern Europe. D. barbatus, the Sweet William, is found wild in the Mediterranean region. The Pinks have mainly come from D. plumarius. The Chinese and Indian Pinks have come from D. chinensis and are natives of China.…

Ginger
(Zingiber) This is commonly known as Ginger. It forms a tall, dark green plant, which resembles a Lily. It forms spreading, tuberous roots (rhizomes), which are edible. This is a perennial in mild climates and may become a pest in moist, fertile soil. It may be cultivated in containers in the North.…

Ginger Lily
(Hedychium) These slightly hardy to frost-tender perennials are natives of China and India. They are commonly called Garland Flower, Ginger Lily and Kahili Ginger. These plants grow from 4 to 6 feet in height. H. densiflorum forms clumps of oblong to broadly lance-shaped, ribbed, shiny dark green leaves on reed-like stems. In late summer, slender stems shoot up bearing dense spikes of small, fragrant, orange or yellow flowers. H. gardnerianum resembles H. densiflorum, but its leaves are grayish …

Ginkgo
(Maidenhair Tree) G. biloba, also called the Maidenhair Tree because its leaves closely resemble those of the Maidenhair Fern, is a deciduous (leaf-losing) tree that is hardy in the North. The Ginkgo hasn't been found growing in the wild, but it is thought to have originated in China. In the Orient, this tree may grow up to 100 feet high with a circumference of 18 to 20 feet. The leaves of this tree are interesting and unique from any other tree. They are fan-shaped, sometimes having 2 lobes, le…

Girasole
(Helianthus) These are hardy herbaceous perennials or annuals found wild in North America. They produce large yellow flowers in late summer and autumn. The perennial kinds are tall and vigorous. H. decapetalus multiflorus and its double variety, Soliel d'Or, grow 4 to 5 feet high. The prettiest one is called Monarch; it is a variety of H. atrorubens sparsifolius. This plant will grow 6 to 7 feet high and bear large, golden yellow blooms. All of the perennial kinds have yellow blossoms. H. argyro…

Glaucidium
This perennial is a native of Japan. It grows up to 20 inches high and wide. It has attractive, bright green, paired leaves, which are divided into 7 to 11 irregularly toothed lobes, at the ends of erect stems. The large, cup-shaped, dainty flowers are pale mauve. They are borne singly on thin stems in late spring.…

Gleditsia
(Honey Locust, Honey Shucks, Thorn Tree, Three-Thorned Acacia) This group of mostly hardy, deciduous trees is native to North America, South America, tropical Africa and central and eastern Asia. These trees, commonly known as Honey Locusts, have pinnate or bi-pinnate leaves consisting of 18 or more, oblong lance-shaped leaflets. They are smooth and dark green above, paler beneath. The small, greenish flowers of these trees are inconspicuous and are followed by thin, purplish-brown pods growing …

Globba
This tender perennial is a native of Thailand. It forms clumps of mid-green, lance-shaped leaves, which have a heart-shaped base and are slightly hairy underneath. Its small flowers are produced intermittently in dangling sprays. They are yellow with large, reflexed, reddish-purple bracts. This plant grows up to 3 feet high with a spread of 1 foot.…

Globe
(Cynara) Cynara is the botanical name of two vegetables known as the Globe Artichoke and the Cardoon. The Cardoon is, C. cardunculus, botanically. It's a tender perennial that can grow 6 to 8 feet high. It resembles its cousin, the Globe Artichoke, but the gray-green leaves overlap at the base. The wide, plump, edible stems form loose stalks or heads like celery. Cardoons keep their vase shape until late in the season, when a branching central stem shoots up. Several buds, which resemble small a…

Globe Amaranth
(Gomphrena) These are annual flowering plants that are found wild in tropical countries. Their flowers may be cut and dried for winter decoration. The plants grow about 18 inches tall. Their leaves are ovate and about 4 inches long and 1½ inches wide. They bear large, pink, white, yellow or purple flowers with noticeable bracts in the summer. These plants are grown in the garden in the summer and the blossoms are cut just before they completely open and hung upside down in bunches in a cool, air…

Globe Gilia
(Gilia) These annuals are found growing wild over various parts of North America. They are erect or sprawling and 2 to 3 feet high. The foliage is finely cut and mostly toward the base of the plant. The flowers grow in thick spheres up to an inch across atop long, wiry stems. The flowers may be sky blue, white, pink, lilac, or lavender-mauve.…

Globe Thistle
(Echinops) These hardy perennials are commonly known as the Globe Thistle. They form clumps of deeply divided, spiny leaves, which are gray-green above and fuzzy-white beneath. They produce round, compact heads of tiny pale blue or grayish-white flowers, resembling thistles, atop gray-white stems in late summer. They are natives of southern and central Europe to Russia.…

Gloriosa
This group consists of 5 or 6 tender, tuberous-rooted, deciduous, climbing vines, which are natives of South Africa. These members of the Lily family, Liliaceae, (Commonly known as Climbing Lilies; Flame Lilies; Gloriosa Lilies; Glory Lilies) are suitable for growing on trellises, in containers indoors and outdoors and as houseplants. They produce weak, trailing stems clothed with glossy leaves, which are tipped at the ends with tendrils to aid in climbing. These plants can reach h…

Gloriosa Daisy
(Rudbeckia) This group of hardy, herbaceous perennials and annuals come from North America and belong to the Daisy family, Compositae. They form neat clusters, 1 to 3 feet high. The oval to elliptic shaped leaves are mostly basal and grow 3 to 6 inches long. The single or double flowers are 2 to 6 inches across and are colored yellow and sometimes brightly bicolored reddish-brown. Pulling off the dead flowers will increase the blooms. Rudbeckias are commonly known as the Black- or Brown-eyed Sus…

Glory Bower
(Clerodendrum) This is a large group of deciduous (leaf losing) and evergreen trees and shrubs, including many woody climbers. Most of them grow wild in tropical and subtropical countries, therefore, to grow them successfully in cool climates they must be cultivated in greenhouses having a minimum winter temperature of 60º F. More than a hundred species have been discovered, but only a few are in cultivation. The name is from the Greek kleros, chance, and dendron, a tree, and allud…

Glory Pea
(Clianthus) This group consists of two tender, semi-evergreen shrubs from New Zealand. Their height ranges from 3-6 feet and they produce beautifully colored flowers in May and June. These plants are commonly known as Parrot's Bill, Parrotbeak, Lobster-claw and Glory Pea because of the interesting shape of their gorgeous blossoms. C. puniceus is a vigorous-growing, climbing shrub. It is medium-sized with pretty pinnate leaves, 3 to 6 inches long, consisting of 11 to 25, oblong leaflets. The larg…

Gloxinia
(Sinningia) These frost-tender perennials, commonly known as Gloxinia, are natives of Brazil. S. 'Red Flicker' grows up to a foot high and has basal rosettes of large, oval, bluish green leaves. The large, fleshy, tubular, pinkish-red flowers are produced on short stems, in the summer. S. 'Switzerland' is a beautiful plant with large, velvety dark green leaves. The flowers are scarlet with ruffled, white-edged petals.…

Glyceria
(Manna Grass) This ornamental grass is great for planting near water. G. maxima var. variegata forms clumps of broadly linear, flat, green leaves striped with cream. They are tinged with pink when young. It grows up to 32 inches high and spreads indefinitely. In the summer, open heads of tiny green flowers flushed with purple are produced.…

Glycine
(Soybean) These plants are commonly known as the Soybean. They are natives of Australia, Africa and Asia. These annuals are tall, upright bushes with roundish, fuzzy leaves and many short, hairy pods that stick closely to the stems. There are home garden varieties chosen for their earlier maturity, shorter height, longer pods and larger beans, which are more numerous. These are better than the adapted grain (dry bean) varieties. Some kinds have roots and foliage that taste sweet. Dry seeds are b…

Glycyrrhiza
These perennials are natives of North and South America, the Mediterranean region and tropical Asia. The name is derived from glykys, sweet, and rhiza, root, and refers to the fact that the roots of some species have a sweet flavor. G. glabra is popularly known as Licorice and is grown commercially for its roots (licorice). It is widely cultivated as a crop plant in southern Europe. It grows up to 4 feet high with a spread of 3 feet. Its bluish-green leaves are divided into oval le…

Goa Bean
(Psophocarpus) These tender perennials have several common names, Winged Bean, Goa Bean, Four-angled Bean and Princess Pea. These plants come from the Old World tropics and are taller and more massive than Snap Beans. Their foliage is similar, but darker and they bear loose sprays of reddish-brown or white flowers, which are followed by interesting pods that grow up to 9 inches long. Each pod has 4 fluted wings along its length. The skin is waxy and the flesh partially translucent in the young p…

Goat'S Horn Cactus
(Astrophytum) This popular group of cacti consists of only four wild species and maybe a dozen hybrids. These natives to Mexico are suitable for growing in greenhouses, windowsills and outdoors where climates permit. Most of these cacti form short, spherical plants that may or may not have spines. They are usually flecked with small, white scales. In spring to late summer, numerous, large, daisy-like, yellow flowers grow at the plant's crown. Each long-lasting flower opens completely in bright l…

Gobo
(Arctium) This European biennial is commonly known as the Great Burdock or Gobo. It has large, rough foliage and grows quite large. It is grown mainly for its long, light brown root and is commonly cultivated in the Orient. Burdock takes up a lot of space, much more than Rhubarb, and may become a weed if not controlled.…

Godetia
(Clarkia) These are hardy annuals of western North America. They are named after Captain William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Clarkia's height ranges from 1 to 3 feet. They provide a profusion of flowers that, given favorable conditions, will bloom for quite some time. Clarkias are great for growing in flowerbeds and borders where the summers are cool. They may also be cultivated in greenhouses for blooming in the winter and spring and they provide excellent cut flowers. C. elegans, …

Gold Apple
(Lycopersicon) Lycopersicon is the botanical name for the Tomato plant. The fruits of these plants are international favorites and there are more varieties sold of it than of any other vegetable. They may be eaten cooked or raw and are a good source of vitamins. The Tomato loves sunshine and is grown as a warm-weather annual, although it is actually a tender perennial. It is grown in greenhouses where summers are too cool for pollination and fruit to set in gardens. The garden varieties of Tomat…

Gold Flower
(Hypericum) This large group consists of about 370 perennials and evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs that grow throughout the temperate regions of the world. These plants are great for the rock garden, herbaceous border and shrubbery. The shrubby kinds are especially pretty as they produce a profusion of bright or golden yellow flowers in the summer and autumn. The blossoms have five petals and numerous, prominent stamens. E. calycinum (Aaronsbeard; St. John's Wort) is a dwarf, evergreen s…

Gold-Dust Tree
(Aucuba) This group consists of three, evergreen shrubs that are natives of eastern Asia and the Himalayas. These shrubs are compact and rounded, growing from 6 to 10 feet high. They are mainly grown for their attractive foliage, which is especially pretty on the variegated types. They produce small flowers, often unnoticeable, that are followed by bunches of red berries, each containing a single seed. Male and female flowers are produced on different plants. They are nice plants to grow in cool…

Golden Barrel
(Echinocactus) This group consists of six cacti native to Mexico and the southwestern U.S. These globular- to barrel-shaped plants (Hedgehog Cactus) vary in size from small plants only 41/2 inches wide to giants 3 feet wide and 61/2 feet high, weighing more than 2,200 pounds. These plants produce a ring of open-faced flowers on the plant's crown ranging in color from golden yellow to purplish-red. These cacti are suitable for growing in containers in a greenhouse or home and as landscape plants.…

Golden Bells
(Forsythia) This group consists of seven hardy, deciduous shrubs, one of which is native to southeast Europe, while the other six are native to East Asia.These shrubs, commonly known as Golden Bells, are valued for their gorgeous display of star-shaped, golden yellow flowers on leafless branches, in the spring. They can be used as a screen, espalier, bank cover, or with other shrubs, as their medium-green foliage blends well. F. 'Arnold Dwarf' is a low-growing, spreading plant that makes a great…

Golden Club
(Orontium) This hardy, aquatic perennial is a native to eastern North America. It is great for planting in shallow pools and at the edges of ponds or lakes. The leaves grow directly from the roots on smooth, round petioles up to 9 inches in length. They are dark bluish-green and lance-shaped, growing up to 18 inches long. In the beginning, they grow erectly, but when mature, float on the water's surface. Long, slender flowers (resembling the spadix of an Arum Lily) emerge from the water in early…

Golden Cottonwood
(Cassinia) This group consists of about 28 evergreen, heath-like shrubs found wild in New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. C. fulvida (Golden Cottonwood, Golden Heather or Heath) is a small, dense shrub with upright growth. Its slender branches are covered with small leaves that have golden undersides giving the plant a tawny-yellow color. The new growths are sticky to touch. In mid-summer, dense terminal heads of white flowers are produced. C. vauvilliersii var. albida (Silver Heather or He…

Golden Cup
(Hunnemannia) This herbaceous plant is originally from Mexico. It grows 2 to 3 feet high and has blue-green, finely dissected leaves. Its flowers resemble poppies and grow 2 to 3 inches across; they are bright yellow. In mild climates, this plant can be grown as a perennial outside.…

Golden Feather
(Chrysanthemum) These hardy plants are natives of China, Japan, northern Africa, and southern Europe. They belong to the Daisy family, Compositae. Their flowers come in every color except blue. Their blooms come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes. Some are spherical in shape and have incurved petals at the center. Some have tubular-shaped petals of unequal length with little hooks at the end. Spoon Chrysanthemums have rather flat petals that are spoon-shaped at the end. Anemone Chrysanthemums…

Golden Foxtail
(Alopecurus) A. pratensis aureovariegatus, Golden Foxtail, is a tuft forming, ornamental grass that grows 12 inches high and wide. The leaves are flat and linear. They are yellowish-green striped and edged with gold. The flowers are compact, pale green spikes that are borne during the summer.…

Golden Heather
(Cassinia) This group consists of about 28 evergreen, heath-like shrubs found wild in New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. C. fulvida (Golden Cottonwood, Golden Heather or Heath) is a small, dense shrub with upright growth. Its slender branches are covered with small leaves that have golden undersides giving the plant a tawny-yellow color. The new growths are sticky to touch. In mid-summer, dense terminal heads of white flowers are produced. C. vauvilliersii var. albida (Silver Heather or He…

Golden Polypodium
(Polypodium) These are leaf-losing (deciduous) and hardy evergreen Ferns that are found in many parts of the world including tropical, semitropical and temperate areas. Some may be cultivated in hothouses and some in cool greenhouses. The bright green leaves are thin and tough and may vary from only a few inches to 6 feet long. They may be pinnate (feathery-divided once), bipinnate (divided twice), or simple (undivided).…

Golden Shower
(Cassia) Most of these shrubs are evergreen. They come mainly from tropical America. Their height ranges from 6 to 50 feet. Their dark green, shiny leaves are pinnate and they bear terminal clusters of golden-yellow flowers in the summer. Most Cassias are only hardy outdoors in the far South. C. corymbosa, a native from South America, can be cultivated in a cool, sunny greenhouse. C. glauca, a native from tropical Asia, and C. splendida, a native from Brazil, can also be grown in a greenhouse. C…

Golden Star
(Mammillaria) This group consists of about 250 species of cacti that are natives of Mexico, Columbia, Guatemala, Honduras, the southern US, Venezuela, and the West Indies. They range from small plants, ¾-inch in size to huge clusters over 3 feet across. They have cylindrical or globular shapes, which may clump or remain solitary. The tubercles are spirally arranged along the body and from these grow many spines. The spines come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes and really add to the plant…

Golden-Chain Tree
(Laburnum) These gorgeous, deciduous trees are natives of Europe, Greece and Asia Minor. Laburnums are not susceptible to serious damage by pests or disease. The very hard and dark colored heartwood is brown or almost black and when polished, resembles ebony. It is sometimes used in cabinetwork. Laburnums, though beautiful, are very poisonous and great care should be taken if they are grown around young children. Laburnums, also known as Golden-Chain Trees, grow 20 to 25 feet in height. These si…

Golden-Rain Tree
(Koelreuteria) These hardy, deciduous trees are natives of China. They grow quickly and are excellent for growing in lawns or shading patios. They can be grown along country roads and city streets, since they are tolerant of polluted air. The blue-green leaves grow from 8 to 15 inches long and consist of 1- to 3-inch leaflets; they open with a reddish hue in the spring. In early summer, they produce an abundance of 12- to 15-inch, loose clusters of small, yellow flowers. K. bipinnata, commonly k…

Gomphrena
(Globe Amaranth) These are annual flowering plants that are found wild in tropical countries. Their flowers may be cut and dried for winter decoration. The plants grow about 18 inches tall. Their leaves are ovate and about 4 inches long and 1½ inches wide. They bear large, pink, white, yellow or purple flowers with noticeable bracts in the summer. These plants are grown in the garden in the summer and the blossoms are cut just before they completely open and hung upside down in bunches in a cool…

Goober
(Arachis) Arachis hypogaea is the botanical name for the Peanut. The Peanut, also called Goober and Groundnut, is a frost-tender annual native to Brazil. Once mainly a warm climate crop, they have gained popularity in home gardens because early-maturing varieties with large seeds have been developed. These attractive plants are neat and resemble clovers. They grow about 12 feet high and 2 feet wide. It produces two kinds of flowers; male (staminate) flowers, which are bright yellow and quite pre…

Good-King-Henry
(Chenopodium) These hardy annuals or perennials may be grown for decoration and some kinds are vegetables. They come from various parts of the world such as Europe and China and are naturalized in America.…

Gooseberry Gourd
(Cucumis) Cucumis is a large group comprised of Melons and Cucumbers. They are climbing plants found wild in Asia. Just below are some descriptions of the Cucumber family (cucurbitaceae); following will be descriptions of Melons…

Goosefoot
(Chenopodium) These hardy annuals or perennials may be grown for decoration and some kinds are vegetables. They come from various parts of the world such as Europe and China and are naturalized in America.…

Gooseneck Loosestrife
(Lysimachia) Golden Globes.These hardy and tender perennials and annuals are found throughout the temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere. A few grow wild in Australia, South Africa and South America. Few of the Loosestrifes have value in the garden. L. clethroides (Gooseneck Loosestrife) is a vigorous growing perennial from Japan that forms clumps of lance-shaped, mid-green leaves that are yellowish when young. The tiny, star-shaped, white flowers are borne in compact…

Gordonia
(Franklinia) F. alatamaha is an autumn-flowering tree or shrub, commonly known as the Franklin Tree, Franklinia and Gordonia. This tree grows 20 to 30 feet high in the South or West, but only 6 to 10 feet high in the North. The Franklin Tree has reddish brown branches that are covered with 5-inch, glossy bright green leaves. The foliage turns orange and red in the fall at about the same time the flowers open. The fragrant, white flowers are 5 inches across and have golden yellow stamens at the c…

Gorgon Plant
(Euryale) This aquatic perennial is a native of India and China. E. ferox, commonly known as the Prickly Water Lily or Gorgon Plant, is a floating plant with large (4 to 5 feet across), deeply veined, flat leaves. It produces cup-shaped flowers consisting of 23 or 24 petals. They are deep violet with an outer row of white petals. Sharp spines cover the surface of the sepals and stems and also both sides of the leaves. Although perennial in tropical climates, it is usually grown as an annual in c…

Goutweed
(Aegopodium) These plants are commonly known as Bishop's Weed, Goutweed, or Groundelder. They are creeping perennials, usually grown as a ground cover, growing from 4 to 6 inches high. A. podagraria variegatum has aromatic leaves, which are divided into 3 to 9 oval, pointed, serrated leaflets. They are grayish-green unevenly edged with creamy-white. They produce tiny, white flowers in the summer, though they are unnoticeable. This Aegopodium is the only one worth planting, for it isn't as aggres…

Grape
(Vitis) This group consists of about 60, mostly hardy, deciduous, woody vines, commonly known as the Grape. These popular natives of North America, China and Japan are mainly valued for their delicious fruits, which can be eaten fresh or dried, squeezed as juice or fermented as wine. However, not only are these vines valued for their fruit, but also for their large, lobed leaves, which turn gorgeous colors in autumn. Grapes bear inconspicuous, greenish flowers in the spring, which suffuse the br…

Grape Ivy
(Cissus) These climbing plants are natives of several tropical and subtropical countries. C. antarctica is shrubby and climbs along with tendrils. It has shiny, green leaves with brown veins and stems. C. rhombifolia is a vinelike plant with hairy brown branches and shiny green leaves that have fuzzy, white undersides, as in the new growth. It also climbs with the aid of tendrils. In the warmest parts of the U. S., several varieties can grow outside in regular soil with partial shade. All are go…

Grapefruit
(Citrus) These plants are native to the southern and southeastern mainland of Asia and the bordering Malayan islands. They are small, spiny shrubs or trees with alternate, usually evergreen, leaves, which are shiny and leathery and dotted with oil glands. The stems are mostly winged and jointed with the leaves and there is usually a spine on the twigs at the attachment of each stem. Their flowers smell sweet and they have five petals that are white and some kinds have purple staining the o…

Grass-Leaved Scabious
(Scabiosa) These are hardy perennial and annual herbaceous plants that are used for cut flowers as well as garden decoration. The name Scabiosa is derived from scabies, itch; in regard to the plant's supposed properties of curing irritation of the skin. These plants have upright growth, 2 to 3 feet in height. Their leaves are lanceolate and coarsely toothed, growing up to 4 inches long. They grow mostly at the base of the plant. The fragrant flowers are 2 to 3 inches across and are domed …

Great Laurel
(Rhododendron) This huge group of evergreen and leaf losing trees and shrubs are found wild in Asia, Europe, and North America. Hundreds of wild kinds have been found and numerous hybrids have been developed. These plants vary greatly in growth. Some grow into moderately sized trees and some into little shrubs or bushes that are great for the rock garden. The leaves of some may be as small as Thyme leaves and on the other extreme may be 20 or 24 inches long and 6 to 8 inches wide. Some flowers a…

Greek Ladder
(Polemonium) This group of perennials and annuals are mostly natives to North America. They grow 1 to 2 feet in height and produce pretty flowers during the spring and summer. P. caeruleum, Jacob's Ladder or Greek Valerian, has medium to bright green leaves that are finely divided into 17 to 27 lance-shaped leaflets. In the summer, thin stems bearing dense, terminal clusters of small, cup-shaped, lavender blue flowers shoot up. This plant looks lovely in herbaceous borders and cottage gardens. C…

Green Ebony
(Jacaranda) This tender tree is a native of South America. J. acutifolia (Green Ebony and Sharp-leaved Jacaranda) is a beautiful, decorative tree growing from 25 to 50 feet tall. This tree can be grown along streets or as lawn ornaments. This tree can only be grown in frost-free climates, or while it is small, in containers indoors. The Jacaranda will develop many trunks unless pruned to have only one while it is young. The pinnate leaves of this tree are feathery-looking. They grow from 11/2 to…

Grevillea
(Silk Oak) These shrubs and trees come from Australia and are grown for their beautiful fern-like foliage and small tubular flowers. They can be grown outside in mild climates such as California. Outdoors, in regular soil, they can grow over 100 feet tall. Most of them have small, thin, tomentose (woolly-coated) leaves. G. robusta does not flower while small; it's mainly grown for its ornamental foliage. Other kinds such as G. Thelemanniana and G. rosmarinifolia will produce flowers when grown i…

Ground Cherry
(Physalis) This is a group of annuals and perennials, which are grown for their fruits and for decoration. They grow wild in Europe, America and Asia and belong to the Potato family, Solanaceae.…

Ground Ivy
(Nepeta) This is a large group of hardy herbaceous plants, of which few are in cultivation. They are found wild in parts of Europe and Asia and some are naturalized in North America. N. Faassenii, the Mauve Catmint, is a popular kind that has somewhat spreading growth. Their thin stems are covered with gray leaves and it produces a lot of small lavender-blue or pale mauve flowers mainly in June. When in full bloom, Catmint reaches a height of 18 inches. N. Cataria, Catnip, is the well-known trea…

Groundelder
(Aegopodium) These plants are commonly known as Bishop's Weed, Goutweed, or Groundelder. They are creeping perennials, usually grown as a ground cover, growing from 4 to 6 inches high. A. podagraria variegatum has aromatic leaves, which are divided into 3 to 9 oval, pointed, serrated leaflets. They are grayish-green unevenly edged with creamy-white. They produce tiny, white flowers in the summer, though they are unnoticeable. This Aegopodium is the only one worth planting, for it isn't as aggres…

Groundsel
(Senecio) This is a large group of hardy and tender annuals and perennials that may have shrubby, herbaceous, or climbing growth. Senecios are found wild in almost every country, especially in southern Europe; others are found in South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, China, Japan, the United States and Mexico. They vary in size and shape, particularly their foliage, but almost all have yellow or purple flowers, which resemble daisies and grow up to 3 inches across. They grow in thick trusses ove…

Groundsel Bush
(Baccharis) This group consists of deciduous and evergreen small trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants from North and South America. B. patagonica is a tender, medium-sized, evergreen shrub that has red shoots and small, glossy, dark green leaves. In late spring, tiny, yellowish-white flower heads are produced singly in the upper leaf axils. This quick-growing shrub can be grown near the sea. B. halimifolia (Groundsel Bush) is a hardy native of the eastern U.S. and is found growing near the sea a…

Gum Cistus
(Cistus) This is a group of about twenty hardy and tender, evergreen shrubs found wild from the Canary Islands throughout the Mediterranean region to the Caucasus. These shrubs are commonly known as Rock Roses and Gum Cistus. They are small shrubs, usually attaining a height of only 3 feet. They produce lovely flowers, which are short-lived but are borne in succession for a long period of time. These shrubs are suitable for growing in coastal regions or in alkaline, shallow, or poor soil. They c…

Gum Tree
(Eucalyptus) This group consists of more than 400, quick-growing, tender, evergreen trees and some shrubs native to Tasmania and Australia. These unique trees can grow to giganticproportions; some species can reach heights over 400 feet in their native habitats and up to 200 feet in California. Eucalyptus trees, also popularly known as Gum trees because some species exude a gum, are fragrant and normally pest-resistant. These trees have leathery, smooth, lance-shaped leaves, which have a more ro…

Gymnocalycium
(Chin Cacti, Hibotan, Ruby Ball, Spider Cacti) This group contains 80 variable species. They are natives of South American countries from Argentina, north to Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. The plants range from small stems, 11/2 inches across, to stems 8 inches wide and high. They range in color from blue-green to gray or brown. Most of the species flower profusely and at an early age. The long-lasting flowers range in color from white to light yellow and pink and only open fully in bri…

Gymnocladus
(Chinese Soap Tree, Kentucky Coffee Tree) These hardy, deciduous trees are slow-growing and pest resistant. There are two varieties, the most common one will be described next. C. dioica, commonly known as the Kentucky Coffee Tree, is originally from North America. It is said that the Indians and early immigrants at one time roasted and ground the large seeds to make a bitter, coffee-like drink, hence the common name. This tree will eventually reach a height varying from 40 to 90 feet. The bi-pi…

Gynura
(Purple Passion Plant, Velvet Plant) These tropical plants are natives of Indonesia. They belong to the Daisy family, Compositae and will grow 2-3 feet high. G. aurantiaca produces velvety leaves covered with purple hairs and orange flowers, which resemble little shaving brushes. G. bicolor's leaves are gray-purple above and rich purple underneath.…

Gypsophila
(Baby's Breath, Chalk Plant) This group includes hardy annuals and perennials originally found wild in various parts of Europe. These plants are commonly called Baby's Breath and Chalk Plant. G. paniculata variety Bristol Fairy is a dainty plant, which grows from 24 to 30 inches high with a spread of 3 feet. It forms mounds of narrowly lance-shaped, blue-green leaves and a profusion of very tiny, double, white flowers in airy panicles on wiry, branching stems, in the summer. G. paniculata variet…

Hackberry Tree
(Celtis) Celtis is the botanical name for the Hackberry tree, also known as the Sugarberry, Nettle tree and Hoop Ash. This group includes mostly hardy and deciduous trees (sometimes bushes) mainly from the Northern Hemisphere. The Hackberries resemble the Elms, but are smaller trees. C. occidentalis is a medium-sized tree, growing from 25 to 40 feet high. It forms a round head of branches. The leaves are arranged alternately on the branches. They are simple and ovate with long-pointed tips. They…

Hackmatack
(Larix) Larix, also known as the Larch, Tamarack or Hackmatack, is a coniferous (cone-bearing) tree, which lose their needles in autumn. The Larches grow in northern regions, or at high altitudes in the mountainous parts of temperate countries. They are found throughout central Europe, the Himalayas, China, Korea, Japan, Siberia and North America. They are very beautiful in the spring with their light green, young leaves and female flowers, which are usually pink. The needles are pretty soft, sl…

Hair Grass
(Eleocharis) This is a group of aquatic, rush-like perennials. Some grow naturally along the edges of ponds and others grow completely submerged. E. acicularis, Hair Grass, is a hardy variety native to North America, Asia and Europe. It has pale green, needle-like leaves, up to 8 inches in length. This plant spreads vigorously by means of rhizomes and care must be taken that it doesn't choke out other submerged plants. E. montevidensis, Spike Rush, is a handsome plant that grows from 6 to 12 inc…

Hairbrush Cactus
(Pachycereus) This group consists of twelve, columnar-shaped cacti native to parts of the southern United States and Mexico. This group contains some of the largest-growing cacti; they range in height from 13 to 42 feet. Some have solitary stems but many branch to form clumps or even trees. Mature plants that are 6 to 15 years old bear flowers. The blossoms are funnel-shaped and tinged with white or pink. They only open at night and are produced at the stem tips in spring to early summer. They a…

Hakenochloa
This ornamental grass grows up to 16 inches high with a spread from 18 to 24 inches. It forms mounds of linear, arching, bright yellow leaves, which are narrowly lined with cream and green. The leaves take on a red hue in the fall. In late summer, tiny, reddish flowers are borne in small, airy heads.…

Halesia
(Silver Bell Tree, Snowdrop Tree) These medium-sized, deciduous trees are very attractive lawn ornaments. Commonly known as Silver Bell Trees or Snowdrop Trees, they bear clusters of pendant, bell-shaped, white or pale pink flowers, in the spring. The blossoms last about a week and are followed by four-winged seedpods in the fall. H. carolina (Carolina Silver Bell) grows 20 to 30 feet high. It grows wild from West Virginia to Florida and Texas. It forms a rounded head of green, 3- to 5-inch leav…

Hanover Salad
(Brassica) This is a group of plants belonging to the Mustard family, Cruciferae. It includes vegetables that are commonly grown and known as Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collards, Kale, Kohlrabi, Mustard, Rape, Rutabaga and Turnip. Many can be grown for their ornamental leaves.…

Hard Fern
(Blechnum) This group of Ferns is found in Brazil, the West Indies, and other warm and temperate countries. Some types have dwarf, tufted growth, while others grow up to 4 feet high. Those found in subtropical climates need a minimum temperature of 50 degrees and those from tropical countries need a minimum temperature of 60 degrees. B. tabulare grows from 1 to 3 feet high with a spread of 1 or 2 feet. Its dark green fronds are evergreen or semi-evergreen. The outside fronds are oval and sterile…

Hardy Ageratum
(Eupatorium) These hardy and frost tender perennials and shrubs are found in North and South America, Europe and Asia and are grown mainly for their flowers, though some are valued for their ornamental foliage. The name commemorates Mithridates Eupator, King of Pontus, who is credited with discovering that one of the varieties could be used as a remedy for poison. E. purpureum (Joe Pye Weed) is a vigorous growing perennial that can reach a height of 7 feet. Its coarse, finely toothed, mid-green …

Hardy Agertum
(Eupatorium) These hardy and frost tender perennials and shrubs are found in North and South America, Europe and Asia and are grown mainly for their flowers, though some are valued for their ornamental foliage. The name commemorates Mithridates Eupator, King of Pontus, who is credited with discovering that one of the varieties could be used as a remedy for poison. E. purpureum (Joe Pye Weed) is a vigorous growing perennial that can reach a height of 7 feet. Its coarse, finely toothed, mid-green …

Hare'S-Foot Fern
(Davallia) These Ferns, also called Hare's-Foot Ferns, are native to northern Africa, Asia, Malaya, Japan, northern India and Australia. Most of these plants have creeping stems that are covered with silvery white, black or brown fuzzy scales that resemble small paws. They have finely divided fronds that rise directly from the creeping stems and can vary in length from 6 inches to 6 feet. The tropical varieties of this fern need a minimum temperature of 55 degrees, but the Davallias suited for l…

Hart'S Tongue Fern
(Asplenium) These Ferns are natives of North America, Africa, India and other countries. With long, broad, bright green leaves that can grow up to 18 inches high, this plant doesn't really look like the typical fern. The tougher plants come from North America and they are good for growing outdoors in gardens as long as they have well-drained soil. A. platyneuron (Ebony Spleenwort), A. viride (Green Spleenwort), A. Bradleyi and A. Trichomanes (Maidenhair Spleenwort) are all hardy Aspleniums. They…

Hatiora
(Drunkard's Dream, Spice Cactus) There is only one commonly grown cactus of this group of Brazilian epiphytes; H. salicornioides is commonly called Drunkard's Dream and Spice Cactus. This small, epiphytic shrub forms a tall, profusely branching stem up to 16 inches high from which numerous shoots grow. The pendent, leafless shoots, which can grow over 6 inches long, are made up of bottle-shaped joints. If the plant is given bright light, the more slender portion of the joint will be shorter and …