Passionate Gardeners

Non-Stop Gardening Tips & Inspiration

Variegated Foliage – A Simple Way to Add Contrast in Planting Design

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Rhamnus alaternus 'Variegata' (Variegated Buckthorn)
As you can see from the lead photo of this large hedge of variegated buckthorn (Rhamnus a. ‘Variegata’) variegated leaves can be a useful tool to add beautiful, easy contrast to your plant design.

In this short post, take a look at the “hue effect” variegated leaves play in visual contrast to different leaf color -especially straight green or blue colored plants. But first…

Q: What is variegated foliage?

A leaf that has more than one color. Think of two toned foliage, blotched foliage, striped or bordered with a lighter color than the rest (vice versa) – Wikipedia

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Lantana: Showy Perennial. Use as Trailers, Mounds, Low Shrubs and Topiary

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Lantana showy flowers constant bloom!Lantana is a popular plant in the SF Bay area. Its staying power owes to its constant bloom, showy flowers, and the fact that this plant in all its forms is enjoyed by hummingbirds and butterflies for habitat gardens; and, is a drought tolerant, happy plant, well suited to our Mediterranean climate gardens.

Two main species, Lantana montevedensis and Lantana camara have been the focus of plant breeders for a while and these two species, and several of their cultivars, are the focus of this short post. [Read more]

Wisteria Vine: Rethinking Its Place in Small Home Garden Design

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Wisteria in small home garden designVine choices in the garden? Does it matter?

Yes! And wisteria is a giant. A vine known to swallow landscapes and buildings (I saw this first hand just outside Buenos Aires, Argentina).

But, what about wisteria’s potential and place in a small space or garden? (25 photos below.)

Is it possible for you to enjoy this amazingly gorgeous, sweetly fragrant bloomer despite its desire to take over your property… [Read more]

Real vs Fake: These Strong Forms Make Impressive Artificial Desert Plants + Cacti

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For a semi-arid touch we visited Sedona, Arizona. The plant palette going from Phoenix to Sedona included desert and high desert natives and was a good representation of iconic desert flora.

I found myself back from the trip looking at my Arizona photos because such nice memories before turbulence (Coronavirus + personal stuff) helps me feel better and is a HEALTHY ESCAPE.

Why? The beautiful images brings me back to this beautiful landscape.

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Sedona, Arizona: How Home Landscaping Reflects the Natural Environment

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Sedona Arizona Homes and Gardens

We’re just back from a week-long trip to Sedona, Arizona where arresting views of red rock canyons is a feast for the eyes and provides an incredible and unique backdrop for home owners. (Lots of photos below!!!)

If you haven’t been to Sedona, this high desert paradise is a 2-hour drive from Phoenix (an easy flight from San Francisco and many places); and a 2-hour drive to the Grand Canyon, which makes it a wonderful place for you to visit. [Read more]

13 Blockbuster Plants for the February Garden!

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13 blockbuster plants for the February garden!Did you catch the Oscars last weekend?

I did – and it got me thinking about the Blockbuster Oscar worthy plants for the February garden.

With Valentine’s day almost here, mid-February is an excellent time to consider what Oscar worthy plants you might enjoy living in your garden (or container).

In this short post – sit back, relax while viewing some Oscar Worthy Plants. Categories include: trees, shrubs, vines, perennials and succulents. [Read more]

7 Good Trailing Plants for Walls

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Lotus berthelotti

If you're looking for some trailing plant choices to add greenery - maybe even a splash of flower color to your wall, here are 7 excellent options!  These evergreen options will give all season coverage, providing interest, character and clothing … [Read more]

Fall Plants in the Garden

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Rugosa Rose, Kennebunkport, Maine.

A u t u m n is so SPECIAL. The light changes drastically from summer, the waning daylight hours, leaves changing color, flowers peaking and fading, leaves under feet. Preparation in nature for winter months is all around us. I don't like to miss a … [Read more]