Ageratum conyzoides

The Ageratum is an annual herb that grows to a height of around two feet and produces clusters of small, pretty flowers along its hairy stems. In some countries, it is classed as a weed which is hard to control. In traditional medicine systems in areas where Ageratum grows continuously, it is widely used. In Brazil, an infusion of its leaves or the entire plant is employed to treat colic, colds, fevers, diarrhea, rheumatism and spasms, as well as serving as a tonic. It is also recommended for the treatment of burns and wounds. In countries of Latin and South America, it is utilized for its antibacterial properties to treat infectious conditions and bacterial infections. In Africa, it is employed for fever, rheumatism, headache, pneumonia, wounds, burns and colic.

Ageratum is native to Central America and the Caribbean and can be grown in USDA Zone 9-11, either outdoors or indoors in cooler climates. It grows best in rich, moist soil, with regular watering. Its colorful blooms, which come in shades of pink, white and off-white, will attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The flowering season of Ageratum is usually all summer and the shrub often self-seeds depending on the climate.

To keep Ageratum healthy, the soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Deadhead the spent flowers and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. If planting in a pot, it is best to first use a potting soil specifically formulated for containers, and then cover with 1-2 inches of a moisture-retaining material such as straw or bark. To encourage blooming, cut the plant back after flowering.

While Ageratum has a place in traditional medicine systems, it is believed to be invasive in parts of the United States. Therefore, caution should be used when planting and spreading to wild, natural areas should be avoided to prevent ecological damage.

Ageratum houstonianum

As a long-blooming, summer annual, this plant keeps a nice mounded shape throughout its bloom period. It is covered with clusters of small flowers. It comes in blue, pink, and white blooms. It generally grows about a foot high, though some dwarf varieties are available. Mass blue Ageratum is beautiful in beds with yellow marigolds for complementary colors, or with pink begonias to create a soft pastel carpet. Ageratum is very easy to grow in a sunny location.

Aglaia argentea

Aglaia korthalsii, Aglaia aquatica, Aglaia cauliflora

Aglaia korthalsii, commonly known as Aglaia, is a small tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, from China to India. This species of tree is known for its unique properties, being an ethnomedical plant as well as edible, and is therefore grown commercially throughout the region. It is able to grow to heights of 10-20 feet tall, with extremely large specimens sometimes reaching heights of 20 feet or more.

When grown in a USDA zone ranging from 9-11, Aglaia korthalsii requires regular watering in order to survive and thrive. Unless temperatures abruptly drop below zero, it is not necessary to provide supplemental water during the winter in these climates. However, during the hot summer months it is important to provide the tree with moderate amounts of water.

Aglaia korthalsii is highly valued for its edible fruit. These fruits are ellipsoid to subglobose, ranging from 20 - 40mm in length and 10 - 50mm in width, and are orange in color. Each individual fruit contains up to 3 edible seeds, surrounded by a thin layer of edible flesh. These fruits carry numerous health benefits and are commonly used in local recipes of Southeast Asia. On average, it can produce up to 20 fruits per season, making it an excellent source for edible yield.

In colder climates, Aglaia korthalsii can be successfully grown in a pot. It is important to choose a pot that is large enough to accommodate its growth (at least 18 - 22 inches in diameter) and to use quality potting soil to ensure proper drainage. Furthermore, in cold climates it is necessary to bring the pot into a sheltered area during the winter months to ensure its survival. With the right care and maintenance, this beautiful tree can be a great addition to any landscape.

Aglaia odorata

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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This plant is an easy to grow bush. It produces fragrant yellow flowers - that are as small as a grain of rice, with a very strong perfume. The fragrance is outstanding! Aglaia has many medical uses: odorine and odorinol obtained from this plant has cancer chemopreventive activity. Relatively cold-tolerant.

See Article about Aglaia odorata.

Aglaia odorata var. Gigantea

Aglaia odorata var. Gigantea has small, pungent yellow-orange flowers that are usually seen in the warmer spring months. On a settled day, their sweet perfume is often recognizable from a distance. The flowers are followed by small, round brown-black fruits that can be used for making tea.

In the proper locations in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, this plant can be grown in the ground without any special requirements. In colder areas it can be successfully grown in a container provided it is moved indoors to a warm spot during the winter. In colder climates the plant will require more attention in order to survive winter weather. In any case, the soil must be kept moist at all times and fertilizer should be added once a month during the growing season. Pruning should be done in early summer before the flowering period.

In order to maximize its beauty, Aglaia odorata var. Gigantea should be grown in full sun or semi-shade. It prefers well-draining soils and should not be over-fertilized as this will reduce its flowering ability. During the summer and fall months, it should be given a deep watering every week to keep its foliage and flowers at their best.

Aglaia sapindina, Aglaia novaguineensis

The Aglaia sapindina is known to have 10 centimeter long panicles that contain small, yellow flowers. It bears fruit around late summer.

Aglaonema 'King of Siam'

Aglaonema commutatum

Aglaonema costatum