Derived from a cross between Abelia x grandiflora and Abelia schumannii, the Edward Goucher Abelia boasts a captivating blend of features that make it an exceptional choice for any garden. This moderately fast-growing shrub showcases a naturally round growth habit, typically reaching a maximum height and width of four feet, making it an ideal selection for compact spaces.

One of the standout attributes of the Edward Goucher Abelia is its profusion of pink blooms, which grace the plant from spring through frost. Noteworthy is the fact that these blooms emerge solely on new growth, ensuring a continuous display of color throughout the growing season. While optimal flowering is achieved in full sun, this resilient shrub is adaptable enough to thrive in partially shaded areas, ensuring versatility in landscaping designs.

Adding to its allure is the striking foliage transformation throughout the seasons. New growth emerges in a captivating shade of purple, gradually transitioning to a lush green hue during the summer months before culminating in a bronze-green spectacle in the fall, lending visual interest year-round.

Gardeners will appreciate the low-maintenance nature of the Edward Goucher Abelia, as it exhibits minimal susceptibility to pests and requires little upkeep. A simple application of fertilizer in late winter is all that is needed to support its healthy growth and prolific blooming.

Dense Agave with wide but short leaves with a blue-gray color. Large terminal spines are on the end of each leaf, and smaller spines along leaf edge as it gets older.  The natural shape of this Agave gives it its name, as it does resemble a rather large artichoke at 2 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide.

Blooms at maturity, which can take roughly 10 years. Rosettes which host the bloom spike will die off afterwards, however new rosettes will continue to shoot off the host plant and continue the life cycle. For aesthetics, most people remove extra pups.

The largest of the Agave that forms a natueral rosette pattern.  A single massive flower stalk appearing anytime between 10 to 25 years from germination, and can reach up to 15 feet. Cluster of greenish-white flowers appear, at which time the main plant begins to die. After the Century Plant is dead, multiple offshoots from the underground rhizomes will start to grow. 

Leaves have sharp spines that require care when handling, and should not be planted too close to walkways. Avoid planting in poorly drained areas. 

Cultivar of the Giant Agave that does not get as large, but still has the multitude of spines along leaf margins and large terminal spine. Maturity can take up to 15 years as well, with bright yellow blooms on a leaf stalk reaching over 10 feet in height.

Large maturing agave with leaf spines along the margins and a terminal spice that can reach up to 3 inches. Estimated 15 years to reach maturity, at which point a flower stalk reaching 20 feet will display yellow flowers before dying, leaving many offshoots. 

Large Agave that forms a natueral rosett pattern, and can put out offsets through underground rhizomes. Massive flower stalks reach up to 20 feet in the middle of summer and can reach up to 10 feet tall with yellow blooms. 

Leaves have a sharp spine on the tip of the leaf that require care when handling, and should not be planted too close to walkways. Avoid planting in poorly drained areas. 

Large Agave that forms a natueral rosett pattern, and can put out offsets through underground rhizomes. Massive flower stalks reach up to 20 feet in the middle of summer and can reach up to 10 feet tall with yellow blooms. Weberi X has jagged leaf spines while weberi does not.

Leaves have a sharp spine on the tip of the leaf that require care when handling, and should not be planted too close to walkways. Avoid planting in poorly drained areas. 

Large Agave that forms a natural rosette pattern, and can put out offsets through underground rhizomes. The plant can grow up to 36" tall overall, with flower stalks reaching much further. Blooms once full mature, which could take up to 15 years. 

Leaves have a sharp spine on the tip of the leaf and more along the leaf margin -- requires care when handling, and should not be planted too close to walkways. Avoid planting in poorly drained areas. 

Large Agave that forms a natural rosette pattern, and can put out offsets through underground rhizomes. The plant can grow up to 36" tall overall, with flower stalks reaching much further. Blooms once full mature, which could take up to 15 years. 

Leaves have a sharp spine on the tip of the leaf and more along the leaf margin -- requires care when handling, and should not be planted too close to walkways. Avoid planting in poorly drained areas. 

Althea 'Aphrodite', also known as Hibiscus syriacus 'Aphrodite', is a stunning deciduous shrub that adds elegance and beauty to any landscape. With its lush, green foliage and large, showy flowers, 'Aphrodite' commands attention throughout the growing season. The blooms are strikingly attractive, boasting a vibrant pink color with a deep red eye at their center, creating a mesmerizing focal point in garden beds or along property borders. This cultivar typically reaches a height and spread of around 10 feet, making it an excellent choice for adding height and structure to the landscape.

From a landscaping perspective, Althea 'Aphrodite' offers versatility and resilience, thriving in various soil types and tolerating both drought and heat once established. Its upright, vase-shaped growth habit makes it suitable for use as a specimen plant, hedge, or screen, providing privacy and visual interest in the garden. 'Aphrodite' also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of the landscape. Whether planted as a standalone specimen or incorporated into mixed borders, this hibiscus cultivar elevates the aesthetic appeal of any outdoor space with its lush foliage and stunning blossoms.

In terms of maintenance, Althea 'Aphrodite' is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning to maintain its shape and encourage prolific flowering. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Regular watering during dry spells and a layer of mulch to conserve moisture are beneficial for optimal growth and blooming.

Leaves are coarsely tooth and slightly tri-lobed, emerging late in the spring. Branches have a natural erect growth habit, forming a natural vase shape.  

Popular bedding plant that is great for edgings and borders. Blooms start in early spring and continue to frost. Fragrant flowers can be white, pink, rose or purple. Generally pest free. Spring and Summer Annual Fall 2008 Cultivar Easter Bonnet Violet Easter Bonnet White

Spring 2022 Cultivars

Clear Crystals Purple
Clear Crystals White

The Anacua Tree stands as a symbol of resilience and beauty in the landscapes of South Texas and northeastern Mexico. With its distinctive glossy yet sandpaper texture leaves and clusters of small, fragrant white flowers, this native species captivates admirers and wildlife alike. Known for its ability to endure harsh conditions such as drought and poor soil, the Anacua Tree has earned a reputation as a hardy and versatile plant in its native habitat.

One of the most notable features of the Anacua Tree is its role in providing sustenance for various wildlife species. The tree's fruits, resembling small oranges, are a favorite food source for birds and mammals. Additionally, its dense foliage offers shelter and nesting sites for birds, contributing to the local ecosystem's biodiversity. Furthermore, its resilience to drought and ability to thrive in sandy or clay soils make it a valuable component of xeriscaping efforts and urban landscaping projects in arid regions.

Culturally, the Anacua Tree holds significance beyond its ecological contributions. Indigenous peoples of the region have long utilized its wood for various purposes, including crafting tools and building shelters. Furthermore, its presence in the landscape serves as a reminder of the natural heritage and resilience of the South Texas and northeastern Mexico regions. As efforts to preserve native flora continue, the Anacua Tree remains a cherished emblem of the rich botanical diversity and cultural heritage of its native range.

Angelonia 'Serenita' is a perennial flowering plant celebrated for its compact size, abundant blossoms, and low-maintenance nature. Its slender stems bear vibrant flower spikes in hues of lavender, pink, and white, lending an elegant touch to gardens and landscapes. This cultivar, 'Serenita,' offers a compact growth habit ideal for small spaces or containers. Notably, with proper mulching, it often returns in spring after light frosts, providing enduring beauty year after year. Thriving in sunny locations with well-drained soil, this heat-tolerant and drought-resistant plant is favored by both novice and experienced gardeners for its resilience and enduring charm.

Cultviars for 2024

Serenita Pink
Serenita Purple
Serenita White

The Cast Iron Plant is a resilient and versatile addition to the Texas landscape. Thriving in shaded areas, this plant is ideal for gardens where sunlight is limited, making it a perfect choice for shaded areas during the scorching Texan summers. Its glossy, dark green leaves provide a lush backdrop in any setting, adding depth and texture to the landscape.

One of the notable characteristics of Aspidistra is its slow growth rate. In a region where extreme weather fluctuations are common, its gradual growth ensures a stable and low-maintenance landscape feature. This slow pace of growth also means no frequent pruning and maintenance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a fuss-free garden solution.

Aspidistra also demonstrates adaptability in soil pH preferences, thriving in both acidic and alkaline conditions commonly found across Texas. This resilience makes it a reliable choice for various soil types, from sandy to clay-based soils, ensuring its viability in a wide range of garden settings. Whether planted as a ground cover or as a border plant, its adaptability and ease of care make Aspidistra elatior a standout choice for enhancing the beauty and tranquility a landscape.