By Mike Raley If you want a plant with a scientific name that really rings, then winter honeysuckle is for you. The botanical name for this aromatic specimen is Lonicera fragrantissima. Catchy, huh? Known around here as “Sweet Breath of Spring,” I planted one decades ago, and like some of the flowering plants in my…… Continue Reading
This small deciduous tree is a native of Japan and China and is glorious in its winter appearance when its glorious light to dark pink or white flowers bloom, and the spicy fragrance permeates the landscape.… Continue Reading
If you are serious about raising Camellia sinensis for this purpose, you should plan on growing several plants. Do a little pruning in early spring to promote new growth if you prefer making green tea, and harvest the older leaves for black tea. … Continue Reading
The hues of brown and gray, sprinkled with contrasting evergreens and cover crops of rye, help make the countryside look sort of neat, clean and orderly.… Continue Reading
The saltbush is native, but the North Carolina Native Plant Society considers this provocative plant invasive. It was once only located near the coast, but now you can find it through eastern North Carolina and the Piedmont region. There are other native coastal plants that have made their way west like wax myrtle, beautyberry and yaupon holly. But the saltbush is insidious in the way it takes over growing space for plants that are native to the Piedmont. … Continue Reading