Agave amica, Polianthes tuberosa

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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The Tuberose grows in elongated spikes up to 45 cm (18 in) long that produce clusters of fragrant waxy white flowers that bloom from the bottom towards the top of the spike. It has long, bright green leaves clustered at the base of the plant and smaller, clasping leaves along the stem.

Tuberose may grow wild in Mexico and surrounding countries, but the cultivation of tuberose is usually in Morocco, the Comores Islands, France, Hawaii, South Africa, India, and China.

Long-lasting as a cut flower in water (with lots of changes.)Most flowers begin to lose their scent when they are picked. Not so with tuberose, like jasmine, the heady floral scent continues to produce itself. In Ayurvedic medicine, attars are held in high esteem not only for their exquisite fragrance, but their healing properties. Tuberose is known to improve one's capacity for emotional depth.

See Article about Polianthes tuberosat.

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.

Agonis flexuosa

Native to Western Australia, this small tree is excellent for small urban spaces, growing 10-20 ft in height and 6-15 ft in spread. It has an upright habit with an open, sparse crown. Agonis flexuosa (Willow Myrtle) has an attractive foliage of broad green leaves with a smooth texture. In summer, the tree is covered with white to off-white, fragrant flowers that attract bees and other beneficial insects. When blooming, its flowers give the tree a soft, romantic look.

This is a hardy drought-tolerant tree - once established, it only needs moderate amounts of water compared to other trees. Agonis flexuosa can tolerate salt, making it suitable for seaside gardens or areas exposed to salt spray. It performs best in full sun to semi-shade and is frost-hardy, growing well in USDA Zone 8-11.

When planting Agonis flexuosa, the soil should be well-drained, not too heavy and with a neutral pH. If you choose to grow it in a pot, you should use a well-draining potting mix, water frequently and add a layer of mulch as it helps to keep the roots cool and moist. In cold regions, it's best to keep the pot in a sheltered or sunny spot during the winter months to protect it from frost and cold winds.

Overall, Agonis flexuosa is a low-maintenance, versatile species that adds beauty and texture to any garden. Its fragrant flowers, attractive foliage and hardiness make it an ideal choice for temperate gardens that require a small, hardy tree.

Ajania pacifica, Chrysanthemum pacificum

Ajania pacifica forms a bushy mound of lobed green leaves, attractively edged with silver, remaining attractive all season long. Some gardeners grow this plant primarily for its foliage. Small yellow button flowers appear very late in the fall, sometimes lasting until Christmas. It is quite hardy in cold climates, going completely dormant in cold-winter regions, but in warmer climes it is more-or-less evergreen (though at its best in spring and summer).