Few plants can match the canna lily’s bold beauty and long history. This tropical showstopper is a lily only in name — in fact, it’s more closely related to bananas and ginger. Once grown as food in ancient Peru, cannas, with their towering banana-like...
The ginger plant (Zingiber officinale) has been cultivated in Southeast Asia for over 3,000 years. It was one of the first spices exported to Europe through trade, prized for its flavor and medicinal uses. Candied ginger was a popular sweet in Europe from the 13th to...
In Greek mythology, Narcissus fell deeply in love with his reflection. Consumed by longing, he wasted away and died by the water’s edge. Such a sad story. Everyone knows a Narcissus or two. You’ll be glad to know that the Narcissus in your SoCal garden...
Garlic (Allium sativum) was first cultivated over 5,000 years ago in regions of modern-day Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Ancient trade routes introduced it to the Mediterranean, Africa, and eventually the Americas. The ancient Egyptians believed it boosted...
Tulips need a chilling period to bloom. Crocus and hyacinth likewise need cold stratification to flower. Some ornamental lilies may struggle in Southern California’s hot, dry summers. What’s an aspiring bulb flower gardener to do? You’ll be happy to...
