Ornamental foliage - Plant Encyclopedia Results

Drought and salt resistant. Avoid damaging lower trunk and roots. The two forms of this palm, blue/silver and green, differ in color and purportedly also in environmental preference/tolerance. The green form seems to do better along the coastal areas of southern California (cooler climate) and the blue form takes the inland heat better. Very few of the green form are planted in south Florida, perhaps because of their inability to withstand heat, or perhaps because the blue form is so much more stunning.

Silver-gray leaves take on a beautiful bronze "flocking" in ideal light. Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping.

This large shrub, Meryta sinclairii (Puka), is native to New Zealand and can grow to a height of 5-10 ft tall. It is an ornamental foliage plant and ideal for coastal gardens, being both salt tolerant and wind hardy. While it is hardy and can survive in USDA Zone 9-11, it should not be subjected to heavy frost.

For optimal growth, Puka requires full sun, though it may tolerate some semi-shade. The soil, meanwhile, should be deep, well-drained, and moist. The plant is also quite responsive to regular watering, though it should be avoided in waterlogged soil.

In colder regions and if grown in a pot, planters should choose sheltered areas that are not prone to sharp frost and grow the plant in containers filled with multipurpose compost mixed with a small amount of sharp sand. The compost should be kept moist and the pots should be taken indoors during seasons with harsh frost. After the frost has passed, the pots should be returned outdoors slowly and acclimatized for the period of a week.

Overall, Meryta sinclairii or Puka is an ideal choice for any native or tropical setting. Its glossy green and large, wavy leaves add an exotic uniqueness to any garden, while the small and green winter blooms and shiny black fruits make it a beautiful and interesting specimen tree to cultivate.

Pyrrosia piloselloides is a epiphytic fern. The rhisomes of the fern are exposed to the air, and water availability is limited to periods when there is rain. The folding of the cell wall may be a survival mechanism by which the fern maintains cellular structural integrity, so that when water again becomes available, cells can resume normal metabolism immediately. Gametophytes of the Pyrrosia piloselloides were able to tolerate up to 50 days of drought.

Dense clusters of glossy foliage turn brilliant shades of purples, oranges, and reds in autumn and is accompanied by new, cream colored twigs.

Cornus controversa, also known as Giant Dogwood, is native to Japan and China. It is a large shrub that grows anywhere from 5-10 feet tall or a small tree from 10-20 feet tall. In order to thrive, this hardy ornamental plant should be grown in full sun or semi-shade and given regular or moderate watering.

This deciduous shrub produces large, off-white flowers in summer which attract butterflies and hummingbirds. It is characterized by beautiful, ornamental foliage that changes color in autumn to shades of purples, oranges and reds, as well as new, cream-colored twigs. The mature plant is cold hardy in USDA Zone 6-9.

For planting in cold regions, Cornus controversa can best be grown in a pot which will help to protect the roots during the coldest months of the year. The container can be moved indoors to a cool but sunny area to give the plant a much needed break from harsh winter weather. Once the danger of frost is gone and the temperatures are warm enough, the pot should be moved back to its original location and allowed to thrive in full sun or semi-shade with regular or moderate watering.

Fittonia albivenis (Nerve Plant) is a compact perennial native to tropical South America, especially Peru. It is prized for its low, spreading habit of only 3-6 inches tall with creeping stems that can reach a foot across. The small oval leaves are richly patterned with white, pink, or red veins that stand out vividly against the dark green background, giving it a distinctive mosaic appearance. Tiny yellowish-white tubular flowers appear occasionally but are usually inconspicuous, with the foliage remaining the main attraction. This plant is often chosen for terrariums where its lush mat of foliage creates a tropical carpet.

Fittonia albivenis thrives in bright, indirect light and evenly moist, humus-rich soil. It requires consistently high humidity, and dry air can cause leaf edges to scorch or curl. Regular misting, grouping with other plants, or placing it on a humidity tray helps maintain healthy growth. Gardeners value its ability to wilt dramatically when dry and then revive quickly after watering, a trait that signals its need for attention. Best suited for containers in USDA Zone 11, it should always be protected from frost.

This spectacular hibiscus has attractive maple shaped dark red foliage and mauve flowers. Leaves are edible, full of vitamin C, and great for salads. It forms an upright bush, blooms late in the season. Flower is very similar to Hibiscus cannabinus.

Senecio fulgens, commonly known as Orange Thistle, is a small shrub native to KwaZulu-Natal, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. It grows to a height of 2-5ft and thrives in full sun and dry conditions. Its ornamental foliage and brilliant yellow and orange flowers make it a valued garden plant, and it also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. The best time to sow seed is in autumn or winter, and it can successfully be grown in USDA zones 9-11.

When grown in a pot in colder areas, Senecio fulgens needs to be kept in a sunny spot and watered sparingly. For best results, choose a pot with drainage holes and use a well-draining soil mix. Water only when the surface of the soil feels dry to touch, as overwatering can cause root rot and other health issues. During the winter months, it may go dormant and lose its leaves. This is normal and no additional water is needed during this time.

Fertilizing can be done in the spring, using an all-purpose fertilizer. To encourage bushier growth, prune Senecio fulgens throughout the growing season. During the dormant winter period, it can be trimmed down to the desired shape.

Senecio fulgens is a stunning addition to any garden and is surprisingly easy to care for. By following the proper care and planting guidelines, you can have a beautiful shrub that not only provides vibrant colors throughout the season but also attracts wildlife.

Different Aconitum species (and their varieties) scattered across temperate regions of globe.

These are handsome plants, the tall, erect stem being crowned by racemes of large and eye-catching blue, purple, white, yellow or pink zygomorphic flowers. Aconitum is grown in gardens for its attractive spike like inflorescences and showy flowers.

All Aconitum plants contain poisonous alkaloids that can, in sufficient quantity, be deadly. Man has used Aconitum as a medicine and poison for thousands of years. Outside Europe it was widely used for its medical properties.