Abelia grandiflora

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Abelia is a popular evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub with a rounded, fountain-like growth habit. It is fast-growing, growing up to 4-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide. Its leaves are fine-textured, glossy, oval, and dark green, usually 2 inches long, and the new growth has a bronze color. Abelia produces small, white and pink tubular flowers in clusters at the end of its stems, from summer to fall. The flowers are barely one inch long, but they are slightly fragrant - which attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.

This shrub is a great choice for planting near a pool, as it loves both full sun and semi-shade exposure. When watering it, allow the soil to dry out between waterings. It is mostly pest- and disease-free. Mature Abelias can withstand temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit for a limited time.

Hyperacanthus amoenus is another popular evergreen shrub. It has pinkish red flowers with off-white petals that are fragrant, followed by green fruits that turn brown when ripe. This shrub is easy to grow, needing only full sun and regular watering - though it should be in USDA Zones 8 -9 for full protection from cold weather. For areas with colder climates, it is recommended to keep the plant in a pot and move it indoors in winter. In such a case, extra care should be taken to make sure it has enough water, light and fertilizer. Pruning may also be necessary to ensure the plant remains within the size desired.

Abelmoschus esculentus, Hibiscus esculentus

Abelmoschus esculentus, commonly known as okra, is a flowering plant that is native to Africa. It is a large, fast-growing shrub, growing 5-10 ft tall and producing beautiful white, off-white, and yellow-orange flowers. This plant runs on a shorter lifecycle than most other shrubs, taking only 120-165 days to mature.

Okra does best when grown in warm climates, where it can receive strong direct sunlight, and regular watering. It has adapted over time to thrive in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. As it is a climacteric crop, it benefits greatly from warm, humid days and cool nights.

Regular water needs will depend on the local climate, but okra requires moderate regular watering, even during seasonal to periodical droughts. Soil with a high drainage level and well-aerated conditions will help the plant thrive and reach its full potential.

The plant produces striking large edible seeds within green, finger-like pods. Young, tender okra can be used in stir-fry or soups either blanched or pickled, and raw okra is often used in cold salads. When cooked, it is similar to asparagus. In terms of taste, some describe it to be similar to a combination of mushrooms and eggplant.

Okra is packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, calcium, and potassium. It also contains a healthy amount of dietary fibers, which can help maintain healthy digestion. Health benefits of okra also includes its ability to strengthen the immune system, lower stress, and improve skin and hair health.

In terms of yield, the plant can produce up to few hundred pods per plant, depending on the variety and local climate conditions. Therefore, okra is a great choice whether you are looking to have some fresh fruits in your household.

Abutilon pictum

Abutilon pictum, also known as the Golden Rain Flowering Maple, is a fast-growing tropical flowering shrub that is prized for its speckled, maple-shaped leaves and showy, coral-orange flowers. This striking shrub is a great accent or border plant for areas that don't experience frost, as it can easily be espaliered against a wall. Abutilon pictum Thompsonii, a variety with golden leaf variegation and peach colored flowers with red veins, is an especially showy container specimen and a beautiful addition to any bright patio or indoor location.

Abutilon pictum is native to South America and is grown in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 8-10. It requires a warm climate and full sun exposure to thrive, as well as regular watering. This plant produces red, crimson and vinous flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Varieties with yellow and orange flowers are less common. Mature plants are cold hardy, at least for a short time, to temperatures in the high 20's Fahrenheit. In areas where frost is a problem, it is important to provide some protection for the blooms and for the plant during the coldest periods.

When grown in a pot, Abutilon pictum prefers soil that is well-draining, rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. It requires more frequent watering in the hot months, but it is important not to allow the soil to become soggy. When cared for correctly, this vibrant shrub will provide a spectacular show of beauty. In colder growing regions, be sure to use a container, and choose a large pot with plenty of drainage holes. Provide enough sunshine, water regularly, and fertilize with general-purpose compost in the spring. Not only is Abutilon pictum beautiful, but it also provides a wonderful habitat for larger butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. This can be further enhanced by placing the plants in a sunny, ambient environment, and providing them with a reliable water source and some mealworms, which they seem to love!

Acacia glaucoptera

A native to Western Australia, Acacia glaucoptera (Clay Wattle) is a small plant, natively growing up to 2-5ft tall. It is an ornamental shrub, featuring an eye-catching foliage that is light to medium green, with a glaucaous-white and a distinctive broad-winged phyllodes. The yellow to orange-colored and globular-shaped flowers are the biggest highlight of this plant, appearing from central stems in spring.

Acacia glaucoptera can be grown in full sun, semi-shade, and higher temperate regions. It can be grown in USDA Zone 9-11. It is a highly drought-tolerant shrub that does well in dry conditions. It also does well in a container and attracts numerous butterflies and hummingbirds. Moderate watering is recommended for the shrub, with regular pruning, which will help promote a compact and bushy growth.

In colder regions, Acacia glaucoptera is an ideal plant for growing in a pot as they need protection from extreme cold and frost conditions. When growing in a pot, find a suitable location where the plant will get enough sunlight and water. Pay attention to the pot size; a large pot is necessary for growth. Water the plant when required, keeping the soil moist. In winter, water the plant less frequently but never let the soil dry out completely. Apply a balanced fertilizer every month to provide the necessary nutrients.

Acalypha Inferno

New hybrid of Copper Leaf with bright red-orange-yellow leaves. This shrub provides year-round color in your landscaping in full sun location. The more sun, the brighter the color. In shade leaves may turn pale and green.