Carina van der Linde

The Salvia plant (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial shrub of the mint family (Lamiaceae) that is more commonly referred to as sage or common sage and is sometimes also called culinary sage or garden sage. This wise plant (“sage” means “wise”) is very popular in ornamental gardens as well as herb gardens. The best companion […]

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is among the best fruit or vegetable garden herbs. This herb is excellent for attracting beneficial insects, has antifungal properties, and can help repel insect pests that can harm your vegetable garden. This helpful plant will also add nutrients like nitrogen to the soil, boosting the development of nutrient-hungry plant varieties. Many

Firepower nandina (Nandina domestica ‘Fire Power’), commonly known as heavenly bamboo, is an ideal plant to grow if you want to add more winter interest to your garden. The foliage of this evergreen shrub changes through the seasons. In spring and summer, the foliage will be light to dark green, and in autumn and winter,

If you love large flowering shrubs, Azaleas (Rhododendrons) should have a place in your garden. These flowering plants are a favorite in ornamental gardens because they create striking blooms during fall and spring and grow very well in shady areas. Azaleas look their absolute best if you pair them with other plants that can create

Caladiums (Caladium), also referred to as the heart of Jesus, angel wings, or elephant ear, are easily identified by their heart-shaped leaves and are excellent editions to shade gardens. There are over 1000 different species of caladium plants, which greatly vary in size and leaf color. Most caladiums boast colorful foliage with interesting red, green,

Amaranths (Amaranthus) are very interesting plants to grow in your garden. There are 70 species of this flowering crop plant, and some varieties are better equipped as food crops. In contrast, other species, like prince’s feather (A. hypochondriacus) or Joseph’s coat (A. tricolor), are more attractive and better for ornamental gardens. Amaranth plants are often

The poppy flower (Papaver) or corn rose is iconic because it is the national flower of Poland and red poppies are often worn as a wartime remembrance. At the same time, these flowers have some crucial historical significance; most love growing them because they are striking and beautiful. These wildflowers stand out in open fields

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) is one of the most beautiful herbs to add to your garden space. This charming perennial produces clusters of pink or purple flowers on tall spikes that look striking, and their delicate leaves can add a lot of texture to your spaces. This showy member of the mint family is perfect for

Camellias (Camellia japonica) are often referred to as the queens of winter flowers. These shrubs or small trees are renowned for their exquisite blooms that look striking during fall and winters that tend to be dull.  It is the perfect plant to perk up your garden during winter time, and it will even look good

Black mondo grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’) is one of the most interesting plants you can add to your garden. This type of ornamental grass produces dramatic black foliage that will strongly contrast any lighter-toned plants in your garden. These grasses will only grow up to 8 inches tall and sometimes produce pinkish-white flowers followed by