Botanical family: Asteraceae

Espeletia schultzii

Espeletia schultzii is an endemic plant of the high Paramo region of Venezuela and Colombia, where it grows as a large shrub, able to reach heights of 5 to 10 feet. It has toothed leaves, a perennial nature, and its stem is distinguished by the presence of furrowed bark. Clusters of yellow and orange blossoms bloom upon it throughout the year, making it an attractive ornamental foliage.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Espeletia schultzii also enjoys a long history of multi-faceted ethnomedical uses. People in the area have long utilized the roots and leaves of this plant to treat fevers, headaches, and a variety of other ailments.

When it comes to cultivating Espeletia schultzii, the best results are achieved when the shrub is exposed to full sun. Nevertheless, it's also possible to grow it in shady areas. Moderate watering should be provided as the plant is a xerophyte and can not handle excessive moisture.

During the cold months of the year, it should be protected from cold as the blooming would stop. In these conditions, it's best kept in containers with adequate drainage and good quality potting soil. If the container is positioned outside, it should be protected from the wind. With sufficient care, the Trailing African Daisy can remain an attractive and long-lasting part of any garden all year round.

Eupatorium sp.

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Eupatorium is a genus of flowering plants, depending on the classification system containing from 36 to 60 species, most of which are herbaceous perennial plants growing to 0.5-3 m tall, but a few are shrubs. It is found in temperate, subtropical and tropical regions in Europe, Africa, Asia and North to South America inhabiting mainly dry, sandy sites in woodland and thickets to pasture and swamps. Only a few Eupatorium species are in cultivation, often being grown for their attractive flowerheads in various shades of white, pink, violet and purple that are also nectar rich and attractive to bees and butterflies.

Species of Eupatorium have been used in folk medicine, for instance to excrete excess uric acid which causes gout, but they also contain toxic compounds that can cause liver damage.

Eupatorium purpureum (Sweet Joe Pye Weed) - one of the most common garden grown species.

Species:

Eupatorium ageratoides

Eupatorium aromaticum

Eupatorium cannabinum

Eupatorium odoratum

Eupatorium purpureum

Eupatorium rebaudianum

Euryops sp.

Farfugium japonicum

Farfugium japonicum grows in a loose clump about 2 ft (0.6 m) tall and wide spreading by rhizomes. Daisy-like yellow flowers, 1-2 in (2.5-5.1 cm) across, are borne in loose clusters.

Some cultivars have shiny green leaves variegated with irregular creamy white or yellow markings.

Leopard Plant has been known under many names, including Ligularia tussilaginea, L. kaempferi, L. japonica, Senecio kaempferi, Tussilago japonicum, and Farfugium grande.

Gaillardia sp.

The Gaillardia sp. (Blanket Flower) is a popular North American flowering plant renowned for its vibrant petals and drought-resistant nature. It is a low-growing small shrub, usually reaching heights between 2-5 ft. As it can be grown in USDA hardiness zones ranging from 3 - 10, it is an easy-to-maintain and reliable producer of bright red, crimson, and vinous flowers throughout the growing season.

When it comes to caring for the Blanket Flower, it is important to note that it enjoys plenty of both sunlight and water throughout its optimal growth period. For best results, it is recommended for this plant to receive at least 6 hours of full sun per day, and regular moderate watering. If the temperature threatens to hit the 30s F, then this plant may still survive, however, it's best not to push its luck by allowing it to be exposed to temperatures much lower than this. Furthermore, this plant can also be successfully grown in pots in colder regions, as the roots and foliage will only need to be protected from low temperatures.

From June to the onset of frost, the Blanket Flower produces an abundance of yellow and orange composite flowers, which give any garden a sense of brightness and open up into delicate fringed rays. In the right environment, even though it is an annual, this plant re-seeds itself, ensuring a continuous crop of vibrant blooms for many growing seasons to come.

No matter the size of your outdoor space, the Gaillardia sp. (Blanket Flower) adds a vibrant pop of color that is easy to care for and provides reliable splashes of color for many years. With its low-maintenance requirements and bright color display, it is a popular choice for many gardeners.

Gazania sp.

Gazanias are grown for the brilliant color of their flower which appear in the late spring and early summer.

Most modern varieties are hybrids from several South African species.

Gorteria diffusa

Gorteria diffusa, popularly known as Beetle Daisy, is a small plant species native to South Africa. Its size ranges from a height of 2 to 5 feet, making it a great choice for small gardens and patios. Its yellow and orange flowers are attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, making it a fantastic addition to any wildlife garden.

Gorteria diffusa grows best in full sun and moderately moist soil. It is also quite drought tolerant and can be grown in USDA Zones 9-11, making it an ideal choice for warm climates. However, it can still be grown in cold, temperate regions as long as it is planted in a pot and brought in for the winters, when temperatures can drop below freezing.

In terms of care and maintenance, Gorteria diffusa is an easy to grow plant that requires little to no effort. Water regularly during the spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing, and reduce watering during the winters when the plant goes dormant. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the season and every month or two. Deadheading the flowers will encourage continuous flowering and, if pruned by at least half in late winter, your plant will reach optimum size and form.

Gymnocoronis spilanthoides

Gymnocoronis spilanthoides, also known as Senegal tea, is a small shrub native to wet marshy soils and still or very slowly flowing waters of South America. It is probably the only asteraceae species suitable for aquariums and can help to feed on suspended nutrients in the water to prevent algae growth. The shrub typically grows to a height of 2-5 ft and has dark green, spearhead-shaped, serrated leaves which are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. In spring and summer, the small shrub produces numerous white or off-white, ball-shaped flowers with a diameter of 15-20mm at the tips of the stems. It is important to note, however, that Gymnocoronis spilanthoides is considered to be invasive in certain climates and should be planted with caution.

In regards to growing requirements, Gymnocoronis spilanthoides does best in full sun or semi-shade in humid climates and will thrive in areas with wet bog or aquatic soil. It will do quite well in a pot in cold climates. For those looking to grow it in USDA Zones 8-10, the Gymnocoronis spilanthoides should be planted in a location with full sun or light shade to reach optimal growth and flowering. Regular watering and fertilization with a balanced plant food every six weeks is recommended to keep the shrub healthy and blooming throughout the year. To prevent the plant from becoming invasive, it is important to regularly remove any seed heads that may form, as they may spread and become problematic in certain climates.

Gynura aurantiaca

Gynura aurantiaca (Purple Passion) is native to Java, Indonesia, and offers one of kind foliage. The leaves are bright purple, and have a velvety texture. These low-growing plants grow to a mature size of only 2ft, but they can easily spread if not pruned. They can be utilized as a groundcover or vine and can be grown in hanging baskets.

For best results, this plant should be placed in full sun or semi-shade. While it can tolerate light shade, it will flower more profusely with more sunlight. The soil should stay moist but not soggy, and can benefit from a light mulch. In colder regions, bring the pot indoors before temperatures reach the 30s F.

Gynura aurantiaca is known for its ornamental foliage and yellow and orange flowers. While it is considered invasive in some areas, proper pruning can help.

This unique plant can add a unique touch to any landscape. With its bright purple color and orange flowers, Gynura aurantiaca can make a garden look stunning. A great way to use it is as a groundcover or in a hanging basket, where it can get all the sunlight it needs. With proper care, this plant can be a great addition to any garden.

Gynura crepioides

Gynura crepioides is commonly known as Okinawa Spinach, it is native to Indonesia. Okinawa Spinach is commercially grown in China as a green, it is not a true spinach. Both the stems and the leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. The top of the leaves are dark green and the undersides are purple. Okinawa Spinach has an unique flavor with a faint hint of pine, and will add a beautiful aesthetic element to cuisine. This green is also known as cholesterol spinach, and there are many claims that it lowers can cholesterol. This plant will thrive in pretty much any type of soil from clay to silt to sandy soils. It does well in any type of light other than full shade, but will grow best in full sun to partial shade. Okinawa Spinach is not a heavy feeder, and is relatively pest-free. It is good to cut back flowering branches to promote new shoot growth, because the shoots and leaves are what are harvested. Okinawan spinach is very adaptable to container gardening and even grows well on a windowsill. The younger leaves will have a much better flavor than the older leaves. The leaves and young shoot tips can be steamed, used in stir fry, tempura, stews, and soups. Just add them at the very end.

See article about this plant: Longevity Spinach Super-food Recipes.

Watch Video about Gynura.