Flowers that start with the letter S

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius)

An annual plant species native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Old World. It has been used since ancient times as a dye, a medicine, and in cooking. The flower heads are used to produce safflower oil, which is rich in oleic acid and can be used as a cooking oil or for cosmetic purposes. The plant is also known as “dyer’s thistle” or “false saffron” due to its orange-red color, similar to that of the saffron spice.

Safflower consists of a single stem that grows up to 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in) tall and bears pretty clusters of yellow-orange flowers with five petals each. As it matures, the flower heads turn dark red and eventually produce small fruits containing tiny black seeds. The flowers have an aromatic scent and are popularly used in ornamental gardens worldwide.

Safflower is grown on large farms in many countries around the world for its oil-producing potential. It has become an important crop due to its use in the production of margarine and other food products, while its medicinal applications include treating skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, and sunburn. Safflower also has high antioxidant content which makes it beneficial for heart health by helping to reduce cholesterol levels in the body. Additionally, it is believed to help reduce inflammation and boost immunity.

Saffron (Crocus sativus)

A perennial flowering plant in the family Iridaceae and is native to Southwest Asia. It is prized for its intense aroma, unique flavor, and vivid yellow color which it yields when used as a seasoning or dye. Saffron has been regarded as one of the most expensive spices since antiquity due to its labor-intensive harvesting process; only the stigmas from each individual flower must be hand-picked and dried for use in food and medicine. The vivid red stigmas have been used for centuries to treat various ailments such as depression, insomnia, premenstrual syndrome, digestive issues, coughs, and even joint pain. Saffron is also known to boost immunity with its powerful antioxidant properties that fight inflammation, reduce oxidative stress, and protect against chronic conditions like heart disease. Additionally, it has been traditionally used to improve mood by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety levels.

The saffron crocus (Crocus sativus) grows up to 20cm (8in) tall with purple flowers that contain three vivid red stigmas that are harvested by hand. It blooms during late autumn or early winter in regions with mild climates and prefers sandy soil or light loams which are well-drained. The plant requires direct sunlight but can tolerate partial shade due to its low-temperature requirements of around 10°C (50°F). After flowering has finished the spent stamens should be removed from the flowers to ensure that the next year’s harvest is not diminished. If cared for correctly saffron crocuses can live for many years with returns of up to ten years being reported in some locations.

Sage (Salvia daghestanica)

A species of flowering plant belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the Dagestan region of Russia and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant grows up to 1 metre tall with grey-green leaves that are highly aromatic when crushed. Its flowers bloom in clusters of small, white tubular five-petalled florets from summer to early fall and produce an abundance of nectar which attracts bees and other pollinators. The entire plant is edible and has a sharp, herby flavour with a somewhat sweet aftertaste.

Sage has many medicinal properties due to its volatile oils, which contain thujone, geraniol, salvene, camphor, and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects on both humans and animals. The plant can be used topically as an antiseptic for minor cuts or scrapes as well as applied internally for treating digestive issues or sore throats. Sage also contains antioxidant compounds such as phenolic acids which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and UV radiation exposure. Other health benefits attributed to the herb include improving cognitive ability, reducing stress levels and aiding memory recall.

In addition to its numerous medicinal benefits, sage can also be used in cooking like many other dried herbs; it pairs especially well with pork dishes or fish recipes since its flavor goes particularly well with fatty meats. The herb can also be added to salads or used as a rub for meat before grilling. By adding some fresh sage leaves while cooking rice or quinoa dishes you can give them an extra layer of flavor that will make your meal even more delicious!

Saguaro (Carnegiea gigantea)

A species of cactus native to the Sonoran Desert of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is one of the most iconic plants in the desert, growing up to 50 feet tall with distinctive arms that can reach up to 20 feet long. The saguaro’s thick rubbery skin helps it survive harsh temperatures and can store moisture during times of drought making it an enduring symbol of arid regions.

In addition to its unique physical features, the saguaro plays a vital role in the local ecosystem by providing food and shelter for many species including Gila woodpeckers, Harris hawks, elf owls and other birds that nest in its hollow stems. The sweet-tasting fruits are also an important food source for animals like javelinas, coyotes, skunks, foxes and bears who spread their seeds around while they feed on them.

The saguaro has become so closely associated with desert life that it even appears on Arizona’s state flag alongside a setting sun. Despite its iconic status, however, populations of wild saguaros are declining due to urbanization and habitat loss which make it vulnerable to climate change. As a result, there is heightened protection over these cacti from poachers who harvest them illegally from national parks.

The saguaro is increasingly being used as an ornamental plant in gardens all over the world due to its exotic appearance and relatively easy maintenance requirements; however, some states have begun banning its commercial sale due to concerns about its ecological impact outside of its native habitat.

Sand Dollar Cactus (Astrophytum asterias)

An ornamental cactus that has become increasingly popular in gardens all over the world. It is a member of the family Cactaceae and is native to Mexico and the United States. This type of cactus has numerous small, round, white spines arranged in star-shaped patterns on its thick green body, giving it its common name of “sand dollar” due to its resemblance to the seashore sea urchin of the same name. Sand Dollar Cactus can grow up to 30 cm tall and 30 cm wide, forming clusters when planted in large numbers.

The flowers of Sand Dollar Cactus are yellow-greenish with a pinkish center, growing from the stem toward the top in long clusters of about 10 blossoms each. When these flowers bloom in early summer, they produce a sweet scent that attracts many pollinating insects such as bees, which help ensure successful fruiting. The fruits are small round berries that are edible but not very sweet; they ripen from yellow-green to orange-red from late spring through summer.

This species of cactus is easy to care for, requiring only moderate watering and partial sun exposure for optimal growth. It is also relatively tolerant of drought conditions and temperatures outside its ideal range—it can survive all the way down to -12°C!

Sand Phlox (Phlox bifida)

A species of flowering perennial that belongs to the Polemoniaceae family. It is native to the eastern United States, where it can be found growing in meadows and woodland areas. This low-growing plant typically reaches heights of around 8-12 inches and has a sprawling habit with numerous stems branching out from the base.

The flowers of Sand Phlox are small yet showy, ranging in color from deep pink to purple with white centers. Each flower has five petals that form a star-like shape, extending outward and curving downward slightly at the tips. The blooming period usually begins around May or June and continues until September or October.

Aside from its attractive bloom, Sand Phlox is also valued for its hardiness and versatility in gardening applications as it can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, prefers partial shade to full sun exposure, and needs only minimal pruning or fertilizing to remain healthy. In addition, this species benefits wildlife by providing nectar for pollinators such as bees, moths, butterflies and hummingbirds; its leaves are also eaten by some caterpillars.

Scarlet Hedgehog Cactus (Echinocereus Coccineus)

A small cactus native to the Chihuahuan desert region of Mexico, and is one of the more popularly cultivated species of Echinocereus. It features a globose stem with dense spines arranged in rows, giving it the appearance of a hedgehog when viewed from afar. The flowers are usually bright red or pink in color and have funnel-shaped petals that produce abundant nectar.

In its natural environment, Scarlet Hedgehog Cactus can be found on rocky slopes or cliffs at elevations between 2000 and 5000 feet, thriving in areas with little to no rainfall and long periods of drought. It tends to grow in clumps or clusters up to 2 feet tall under favourable conditions, although this size can vary significantly depending on the climate and soil type.

Scarlet Hedgehog Cactus requires very little care and can make an interesting addition to any succulent garden. It should be planted in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, and can tolerate direct exposure to sunlight as long as it’s not too intense. Adequate drainage is essential for keeping these plants healthy; if grown in containers they should be repotted every 1-2 years using a potting mix designed specifically for cacti.

This species prefers temperatures between 65–90 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate lower temperatures as long as they are not accompanied by frost or freezing temperatures. During the summer months, it should be watered regularly but allowed to dry out completely between soakings; during winter dormancy, watering should be kept to a minimum until spring arrives again. Additionally, feeding with an all-purpose fertilizer once or twice per year will help keep this plant looking its best!

Sea Holly (Eryngium planum)

A beautiful, frost-resistant flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. It has long been cultivated as an ornamental garden plant for its striking foliage and vibrant blue or purple flowers, which bloom from late summer through fall. Its frilly, spiky leaves give it a unique, alien-like appearance and make it popular for use in both traditional and modern gardens.

The sea holly plant is a hardy perennial that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can withstand temperatures down to -15 degrees Celsius without any damage to its foliage or stems but will benefit from protection during winter months. Although drought tolerant once established, regular watering will ensure optimal growth.

This species of Eryngium produces numerous branching stems with narrow green leaves that are covered with white hairs on top and silvery hairs underneath. The flowers are borne on tall spikes that typically reach up to 24 inches high and feature small clusters of rounded umbels packed with hundreds of tiny tubular florets ranging in color from deep blue to bright purple depending on the variety chosen.

Sea hollies make excellent additions to garden beds and borders as they add texture and color while providing habitats for pollinating insects like bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. They also blend well with other perennials, grasses and shrubs, making them easy to incorporate into existing landscapes or garden designs. When grown as cut flowers, these blooms have an extended vase life due to their rigid stems that keep them upright even after wilting has occurred—making them perfect for floral arrangements or bouquets!

Sea Thrift (Armeria maritima)

A small flowering plant native to Europe and North Africa that is often found growing along the coastline in rocky or sandy areas. It has long been used as an ornamental garden plant due to its eye-catching appearance and ease of care. A low-growing perennial, Sea Thrift typically reaches heights between 3-10 inches with a spread of about 8-12 inches depending on the variety chosen.

The leaves are narrow and grassy with a grayish-green coloration, while the tubular flowers range from deep pink to light purple in color, blooming from spring to late summer. Each flower head consists of numerous tiny florets tightly packed into a single umbel atop a thin stem, creating an overall spherical shape that looks much like a bright pink puffball!

When planted in sunny locations with well-draining soil, Sea Thrift can thrive for many years in the same spot without needing to be divided or transplanted. However, it also responds nicely to regular fertilization—especially during periods of active growth—and benefits from mulching each year when temperatures drop during winter months. In addition to being drought tolerant once established, this species is also remarkably resistant to most pests and diseases; although occasional aphid infestations can occur if conditions are overly wet or humid.

Sensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis)

An evergreen fern that is native to moist woodlands and wetlands in parts of Europe and North America. This plant features tall, arching fronds with alternating leaflets that can reach up to three feet in height. The leaflets are light green in color and have a very thin, lacy texture which gives the plant its common name.

Sensitive fern is extremely hardy and able to tolerate temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit without any difficulty. It prefers partial shade, but will tolerate full sun as long as it has plenty of moisture available. In addition to an abundance of water, this species also needs rich soil with good drainage if it is to thrive. To ensure optimal growth, fertilize twice per year with a balanced fertilizer formulated for use on ferns.

In addition to being attractive additions to the garden—with their delicate foliage providing a lush backdrop for other plants—Sensitive Ferns are also useful for helping minimize erosion on steep slopes or banks due to their extensive root system. They can additionally help absorb excess nitrogen from the soil, making them excellent choices for naturally improving air quality around ponds or in marshy areas where pollutants may be present.

In terms of overall appearance, Sensitive Ferns typically produce two sets of leaves each growing season: one set of larger fronds at the base and smaller “croziers” near the top of the plant which stay tightly closed until warmer temperatures arrive again. Additionally, these plants can produce sporangia (spore-bearing capsules) on their undersides during late summer and autumn months which turn reddish-brown when mature and release spores into the air in order to reproduce themselves!

Serbian Bellflower (Campanula poscharskyana)

A beautiful flowering plant that is native to the Balkan region of Europe, where it grows in rocky outcrops and alpine meadows. It is a low-growing perennial that typically reaches heights between 6-12 inches with a spread of around 8-10 inches. Its lush foliage consists of deep green, oval-shaped leaves, while its delicate bell-shaped flowers range from light pink to deep purple in color.

Serbian bellflower produces an abundance of blooms from early summer to late fall, making them great for adding bursts of color to garden beds or containers. This species requires well-draining soil and either full sun or partial shade—although it prefers filtered sunlight throughout the day—and should be fertilized twice per year with a balanced fertilizer designed for flowering plants. The Serbian bellflower tends to be quite hardy and resistant to pests and diseases once established; however, it can become susceptible to fungal leaf spots if the area receives excessive rain or humidity.

Seven Stars (Ariocarpus furfuraceus)

A unique and ornamental succulent native to Mexico. It is a small, slow-growing cactus that is part of the Ariocarpus genus, which consists of about 15 species. This species is also known as “Living Rock” due to its thick, waxy coating that resembles stone when viewed from afar. Over time, this coating can wear away and expose the green inner skin of the plant.

The stem of the Seven Stars is typically round with six or seven tubercles covered in white and yellow spines. Each tubercle has several areoles, and each areole holds tiny yellow flowers which give rise to small fruits that mature over time. The plant also produces small, purple berries as well as pinkish leaves that can be seen during summer months when temperatures are warmer.

When it comes to caring requirements, Seven Stars is relatively easy to grow if given ample sunlight and soil that drains well. Like most succulents, it should not be overwatered since too much moisture can cause rot or root problems. During winter months—when temperatures drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit—it’s best to move the plant indoors or provide some sort of temperature control system like a greenhouse in order to protect it from extreme cold. Fertilizing once every two weeks during the growing season helps ensure healthy growth and vibrant blooms!

Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum × Superbum)

A herbaceous perennial flower that is native to Europe, but has been widely cultivated in North America. It is a member of the daisy family and is characterized by its beautiful white or yellow ray petals surrounding a glowing yellow center. Its name comes from the Shasta Mountains of California where it was first introduced and became naturalized around 1850.

The Shasta Daisy grows well in full sun and prefers sandy or loamy soils with good drainage. It typically reaches heights between 2-3 feet, producing dark green foliage that can reach up to 8 inches in length. Its flowers bloom from late spring through early summer and are usually 1-2 inches wide with 12-20 petals each. The blooms come in a variety of colors ranging from white to golden yellow and pinkish hues; however, the classic white with yellow center remains the most popular variety among gardeners.

This hardy plant is relatively easy to maintain and doesn’t require much attention once established. It does not like having its roots disturbed, so direct sowing into outdoor beds after all danger of frost has passed is best for optimal growth and flowering potential. If grown in containers, regular fertilization every two weeks during the growing season will help promote healthy root development and keep it adequately nourished throughout the year. Deadheading spent blossoms encourages more blooms and prevents self-seeding while keeping plants tidy looking as well!

Shining Blue Star (Amsonia illustris)

Shining blue star, or Amsonia illustris, is an ornamental plant native to the United States. It is a perennial herbaceous clump-forming shrub that grows up to 3 feet tall and wide with a spreading habit. Its bluish-green foliage consists of lance-shaped leaves that may be up to 8 inches long and 1 inch wide. In spring, this unique flowering shrub produces numerous showy clusters of tiny bright blue star-like flowers with yellow centers that bloom on thin stems above the foliage. These blooms last for several weeks before eventually giving way to attractive seed pods in the fall. The plant’s natural habitat is woodlands, so it should be grown in partial shade or dappled sunlight in well-draining soils rich in organic matter. Watering lightly and providing protection from high winds will help ensure optimal growth and flowering potential.

Shining blue star can add striking color to any garden and is an excellent choice for those looking for something different from the traditional herbaceous plants often found in landscapes. The eye-catching flowers are great for adding contrast and texture to garden beds, borders, rock gardens or even containers! This versatile shrub does best in USDA Zones 4 through 9 and requires minimal maintenance once established—making it a perfect low-maintenance addition to any outdoor space throughout the growing season!

Shooting Star Flower (Dodecatheon meadia)

A North American native herbaceous perennial that produces an abundance of beautiful pink and white blooms in early to mid-summer. It is a member of the primrose with a long flowering stem lined with distinctive star-shaped flowers. The petals of the Shooting Star are white on the outside, while their centers contain a deep shade of pink or purple that can be seen from far away! This stunning plant will bring lasting color and texture to garden beds, borders, rock gardens or wildflower meadows.

The Shooting Star prefers moist yet well-drained soils in full sun locations, although it can tolerate some light shade as well. It’s easy to grow and once established, doesn’t require much maintenance. As it matures, it forms clumps of attractive green foliage that will reach up to 8 inches in length from which its clusters of star-shaped flowers will bloom. Its blooms last for several weeks before eventually giving way to attractive seed pods in the fall. The plant is also highly attractive to butterflies and other pollinators, making it an ideal addition for those looking to increase biodiversity in their outdoor spaces!

Shooting Star Flowers are hardy in USDA Zones 3 through 9 and can make a great addition to any garden thanks to their hardy nature and long flowering period. Additionally, they are low-maintenance plants that require minimal care after they have been planted—so they are perfect for those who don’t have time for heavy gardening duties!

Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa)

A perennial flowering plant native to western North America that has become naturalized in some regions of the country. Growing in dense clumps or colonies, this plant produces a rosette of attractive grey-green foliage up to 3 feet tall. Showy milkweed is known for its showy clusters of deep pink-purple flowers that bloom from June through September. These blooms are highly fragrant and attract many species of pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds. The flower clusters give way to round fuzzy seed pods that contain large numbers of light tan seeds with silken parachutes.

The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soils but is tolerant of most soil types as long as it is not too wet or soggy. Once established, Showy milkweed does not require much maintenance and can tolerate occasional droughts, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens or areas where it may not be possible to water regularly. This unique flowering shrub makes an excellent addition to any sunny garden spot, providing striking color and texture throughout the growing season! It can be used in a variety of ways—it works beautifully as an informal hedge, a ground cover along pathways or borders, or even in containers for a portable splash of color. Showy milkweed also makes an attractive cut flower when harvested at just the right time!

Showy Stonecrop (Sedum spectabile)

A hardy, low-maintenance, flowering succulent native to the mountain regions of China and Korea. It typically grows in dense mounds up to 1 foot tall and 2 feet wide, featuring fleshy grey-green foliage and showy clusters of starry pink flowers in late summer. It spreads quickly through stems that root at the nodes which help make it an excellent choice for erosion control or ground cover. Showy stonecrop prefers well-drained soils in full sun but can tolerate some light shade and drought once established.

This plant is highly attractive to pollinators like butterflies and bees thanks to its profusion of nectar-rich blooms that appear from mid-summer until early fall. The flowers eventually give way to small, brown seed capsules that open up when ripe and reveal snowy tufts of seeds—allowing them to be easily dispersed by the wind! The leaves turn deep red or bronze shades when exposed to cooler temperatures during winter months, providing an extra burst of color throughout the year.

Given its impressive drought tolerance, Showy Stonecrop makes an ideal plant for dry or difficult areas of the garden—including sunny slopes, rock gardens, and containers. This unique succulent also looks great in mass planting beds or as a border along pathways where its bright colors will really stand out! Additionally, it’s easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance once established; so it’s perfect even for those with busy schedules!

Silky Wormwood (Artemisia frigida)

An attractive and hardy perennial flowering plant of the family Asteraceae. It is native to dry grassland and rocky slopes in western North America, extending from British Columbia all the way south to Northern Mexico. This drought-tolerant, low-maintenance flowering shrub typically grows to heights of 1 – 3 feet and features silky silver-white foliage with a slight scent of sage. The flowers are small yellow-green buds that begin appearing early in the summer months, eventually maturing into tiny yellow stars by late summer. These blooms are generally insignificant but highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

In addition to its showy flowers, Silky Wormwood is also valued for its textured foliage which adds visual interest when used in garden beds and borders. During the cooler months it develops a deep red hue, giving it excellent winter interest as well. When planted en masse this plant creates a striking contrast between its silver foliage and other colorful plants in the garden! Additionally, it can be used as ground cover or erosion control since it quickly spreads via underground rhizomes and thrives in hot summer climates with little maintenance required.

Smoke Tree (Cotinus Coggygria)

An ornamental, deciduous flowering shrub that is native to parts of Europe and Asia. It typically grows to heights of 6-15 feet and 5-12 feet in width and features smooth, reddish-purple bark with a unique smokey appearance. The foliage is composed of oval leaves which are either deep green or purplish in color with prominent veins running along them – they turn yellow or purple in the fall months before dropping off. Smoke tree can be used as a specimen plant, planted in groups or as a hedge, and its striking beauty makes it a popular landscape choice!

In summer months, Smoke Tree produces clusters of tiny yellow-green flowers which give rise to velvety cones packed with fluffy red seed tufts – this gives the bush its distinct smoky look when viewed from afar. These fuzzy seed heads can last for weeks either on the bush itself or after they’ve been picked and dried, making them attractive additions to floral arrangements. Additionally, Smoke Tree is relatively drought tolerant once established; so it can be grown successfully even in drier climates!

Smoke Tree also has medicinal properties; various parts of the plant have been used for centuries by healers for things such as chest colds, coughs, fever relief, and muscle pain relief. The bark contains compounds known as anthocyanins which are known to possess powerful antioxidant properties – thus it has traditionally been used as a herbal remedy against various conditions. In addition to its healing properties it also offers aesthetic appeal – Smoke Trees have an elegant presence that helps create warm and inviting outdoor spaces.

Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus)

A flowering plant belonging to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to rocky areas of the Mediterranean region but has been cultivated for centuries and can now be found growing in most temperate climates around the world. This annual herbaceous plant reaches an average height of 1-3 feet and produces masses of brightly colored flowers that bloom from spring through fall. The blooms come in various shades of yellow, orange, pink, red, purple, and white and range from small to large depending on the variety grown.

Snapdragons have been popular garden plants since Roman times and can be grown as cut flowers or used as edging along pathways or borders. They are relatively easy to grow and require little maintenance – just ensure they’re planted in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight and water them regularly during dry spells. Snapdragon plants also attract lots of pollinators such as bees and butterflies which adds to their beauty!

In addition to its decorative value, Snapdragon has many medicinal properties. Its leaves can be brewed into teas which have been traditionally used to treat respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, colds, flu-like symptoms, coughs, sore throats and more. The flowers have diuretic properties that help stimulate urination which is beneficial for people suffering from urinary tract infections or kidney stones. Furthermore, the flowers contain compounds known as saponins which possess anti-inflammatory properties – thus they’re sometimes made into poultices or compresses for treating joint pain, muscle aches and other irritation sites on the body.

Sneezeweed (Achillea ptarmica)

An annual herbaceous flowering plant belonging to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to rocky areas of the Mediterranean region but has been widely cultivated since Roman times and can now be found growing in temperate climates around the world. Snapdragon plants typically reach an average height of 1-3 feet and produce masses of brightly colored flowers that bloom from spring through fall. The blooms come in a variety of colors ranging from yellow, orange, pink, red, purple and white, with sizes varying depending on the variety grown.

Snapdragons are popular garden plants due to their stunning showy flowers and low maintenance requirements – they just need well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight and regular watering during dry spells. Additionally, snapdragons act as excellent cut flowers for bouquets or decorations and make superb edging along pathways or borders – attracting lots of pollinators such as bees and butterflies to add even more beauty!

Besides being decorative plants, snapdragons have medicinal properties too! The leaves can be brewed into teas which have traditionally been used to treat respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, colds, flu-like symptoms, coughs and sore throats. Meanwhile the flowers contain diuretic properties which help stimulate urination – aiding those suffering from urinary tract infections or kidney stones. Lastly, saponins found in Snapdragon’s flowers possess anti-inflammatory properties so they’re sometimes made into poultices or compresses for treating joint pain, muscle aches or other irritation sites on the body.

Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis)

A species of flowering plant belonging to the Galanthaceae family. Native to central and southern Europe, this perennial bulbous herb is widely cultivated for its delicate white nodding flowers – making it a popular ornamental plant in temperate climates around the world. It grows to an average height of 4-8 inches and produces masses of blooms from late winter through early spring, depending on the climate. The blossoms typically appear before or around the same time as their foliage emerges and are composed of six petals arranged in two whorls – with three petals facing downwards and three facing upwards in each whorl.

Snowdrop plants prefer moist, humus-rich soil conditions that are well-drained but not too dry. They also need full sun or part shade, depending on their location, and are best scattered in large drifts among shrubs or trees rather than planted in rows. Once planted they’re relatively low maintenance – just ensure they’re watered sufficiently during dry spells and that they have adequate room to spread out without crowding other plants. Furthermore, deadheading the spent flowers can help promote more blooms in subsequent years!

Besides being beautiful ornamental plants, Snowdrop has edible applications too! The flowers can be candied or used as decorations for cakes and desserts while the bulbs can be pickled or cooked like potatoes. Additionally, Snowdrop’s leaves contain compounds which are effective at treating respiratory issues such as asthma attacks as well as reducing feverish symptoms caused by colds and flu. The bulbs also have anti-inflammatory properties so they’re sometimes made into poultices or compresses for treating joint pain, muscle aches or other inflammation sites on the body.

Snow-in-summer (Cerastium tomentosum)

A species of flowering plant belonging to the Caryophyllaceae family. This hardy evergreen perennial is native to Europe, Asia and parts of Northern Africa, with its natural range extending from Norway down to Morocco. It’s widely cultivated for its attractive white flowers and low maintenance requirements – making it a popular ornamental choice for gardeners in temperate climates around the world.

Snow-in-summer typically grows up to an average height of 6-12 inches and produces masses of star-shaped blooms from early summer through late autumn – depending on location. The blossoms typically appear before or around the same time as their foliage emerges and are composed of five petals arranged in a single whorl with shades ranging between pure white, pinkish white or yellow. They also have numerous stamens which protrude outwards from the petals – resembling cotton balls filled with pollen!

Snow-in-summer plants prefer moist, well-drained soil conditions that are not too dry or waterlogged. They also need full sun or part shade, depending on their location, and are best scattered in large drifts among shrubs or trees rather than planted in rows. Once planted they are relatively low maintenance – just ensure they’re watered sufficiently during dry spells and that they have adequate room to spread out without crowding other plants. Furthermore, deadheading the spent flowers can help promote more blooms in subsequent years!

Snowball Cactus (Mammillaria Candida)

A species of flowering cactus native to deserts in Northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. It belongs to the mammillaria genus of cacti, which are known for their characteristic round, fuzzy-looking tubercles. The plant typically grows up to an average height of 3-6 inches and produces small flowers from late spring through early summer, depending on location. The blossoms are usually composed of five petals arranged in a single whorl with shades ranging between white, pink or yellow. They also have numerous stamens which protrude outwards from the petals – resembling a bright and beautiful snowball.

Snowball Cactus prefer dry soil conditions that are well-drained but not overly wet or waterlogged, as well as full sun or part shade depending on its location. It is best scattered among shrubs or trees rather than planted in rows and requires relatively low maintenance – just ensure they’re watered sufficiently during dry spells and that they have adequate room to spread out without crowding other plants. Furthermore, deadheading the spent flowers can help promote more blooms in subsequent years!

Spider Flower (Cleome hasslerana)

A species of annual flowering plant belonging to the Cleomaceae family. It’s native to tropical and subtropical regions of South America and is widely cultivated for its colorful blooms which appear in shades of pink, white, purple and yellow. The large, attractive flowers are usually composed of five petals arranged in a single whorl with many yellow stamens protruding outwards – resembling a spider’s web!

The plant typically grows up to an average height of 3-6 feet and produces masses of star-shaped blooms from late spring through early fall – depending on location. Spider flowers prefer well-drained soil conditions that are not too dry or waterlogged as well as full sun or part shade depending on their location. They also need room to spread out without crowding other plants and are best scattered in large drifts among shrubs or trees rather than planted in rows. Once planted they are relatively low maintenance – just ensure they’re watered sufficiently during dry spells. Additionally, deadheading the spent flowers can help promote more blooms in subsequent years!

Not only do spider flowers provide a beautiful addition to your garden, but they also attract beneficial insects like butterflies and bees which can help pollinate other plants in the area – making them an excellent choice for adding color while naturally increasing biodiversity! Furthermore, the leaves contain compounds which have been used medicinally by some cultures to treat ailments such as skin rashes, and fevers and digestive issues such as diarrhoea or upset stomachs.

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

An annual flowering plant belonging to the daisy family, Asteraceae. It’s native to North and South America, but has been naturalized around the world and is cultivated for its bright yellow flowers. The blossoms typically have a black disc floret in the center surrounded by up to 30-50 ray florets which can range in shades of yellow, orange or even brown. They usually bloom from late summer through fall – depending on location and climate.

Sunflowers are very easy to grow and prefer full sun or part shade in well-drained soil that’s not too dry or waterlogged. They also need plenty of space to spread out without crowding other plants, so they should be planted in large drifts among shrubs or trees rather than rows. Once planted they require relatively low maintenance – just ensure they’re watered sufficiently during dry spells. Additionally, deadheading the spent flowers can help promote more blooms in subsequent years!

Not only do sunflowers provide a beautiful addition to your garden, but they also attract beneficial insects like butterflies and bees which can help pollinate other plants in the area – making them an excellent choice for adding color while naturally increasing biodiversity! Furthermore, studies have suggested that sunflower oil may be beneficial for skin health due to its anti-inflammatory properties as well as its ability to act as a natural sunscreen when applied topically. In addition, sunflower seeds are a great source of dietary fiber, protein, healthy fats and essential vitamins such as vitamin E, which helps promote healthy skin growth and regeneration.

Sweet Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)

An annual flowering plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It’s native to the Mediterranean region and North Africa but has been naturalized in many other parts of the world including North America, Europe and Asia. The plant typically grows up to 12-18 inches tall with small, fragrant clusters of white, purple or pink flowers that appear from late spring through late summer – depending on location and climate.

The low-growing sweet alyssum creates lovely drifts of color and fragrance in gardens, particularly in rock gardens or borders. They prefer full sun or part shade in fertile soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged – as they do not tolerate drought very well. Once planted they require minimal maintenance – just ensure that they’re watered sufficiently during dry spells and deadhead spent flowers to help promote more blooms throughout the season.

In addition to its visual appeal, sweet alyssum offers numerous benefits for pollinators such as bees, butterflies and hummingbirds which can help increase biodiversity with its nectar-rich blooms! Furthermore, studies have suggested that sweet alyssum can be used medicinally due to its anti-inflammatory properties which may help soothe sore throat symptoms when ingested as an infusion. As a member of the cabbage family it also contains valuable nutrients like vitamin C, calcium and iron which can help promote optimal health when consumed on a regular basis.

Sweet Pea (Lathyrus sp.)

Sweet pea (Lathyrus sp.) is an annual flowering plant belonging to the Fabaceae family and is native to the Mediterranean region, parts of Europe and Asia. This vigorous climber has been cultivated for centuries for its beautiful scented blooms in shades of pink, purple, white and red which appear from late spring through early summer – depending on location and climate.

The fragrant flowers feature a typical pea-shape with two upper petals that are fused together at their base, two side petals and a lower petal with a protruding banner. Sweet peas are typically grown as cut flowers as well as for other ornamental purposes such as decoration or scenting gardens. They prefer full sun in well-drained soil that’s not too wet or waterlogged – drought tolerant varieties have also been developed in recent years. Once planted they require relatively low maintenance – just ensure that they’re watered sufficiently during dry spells and deadhead spent blooms once they start to fade.

Not only do sweet peas provide a stunning addition to your garden, but they also attract beneficial insects like butterflies and bees which can help pollinate other plants in the area – making them an excellent choice for adding color while naturally increasing biodiversity! Furthermore, studies suggest that sweet peas may offer some medicinal benefits due to their anti-inflammatory properties which may be useful in treating skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis when applied topically or taken internally. Additionally, sweet peas are rich in valuable nutrients such as vitamin A, C, E, K and folate which can help promote optimal health when consumed on a regular basis.