Flowers that start with the letter T

Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

A perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been naturalized in many other parts of the world, including North America and Australia. Tansy is known for its bright yellow flowers, which bloom from midsummer to early autumn. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a strong, aromatic scent.

Tansy is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of soil types, including poor soils. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate drought conditions. Tansy is also relatively pest-resistant, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.

To maintain tansy, it is important to keep the plant well-watered during the growing season, especially during dry spells. Deadheading the flowers can help encourage more blooms and prevent the plant from self-seeding. Tansy can be propagated through division in the spring or fall. It is also important to note that tansy can be toxic to some animals, so it should be planted in areas where pets and livestock cannot access it.

Tassel flower (Emilia coccinea)

An annual flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the Americas. Tassel flower is known for its bright red, orange, or yellow flowers that resemble tassels.

Tassel flower is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought, but it will perform best with regular watering. Tassel flower is also relatively pest-resistant, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.

To maintain tassel flower, it is important to deadhead the spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. The plant can also benefit from a light fertilizer application every few weeks during the growing season. Tassel flower can be propagated through seed, which should be sown directly in the garden after the last frost. The plant will self-seed readily, so it is important to remove any unwanted seedlings to prevent overcrowding.

Tassel hyacinth (Muscari comosum)

Tassel hyacinth (Muscari comosum) are bulbous perennial plants that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is native to the eastern Mediterranean region and western Asia. Tassel hyacinth is known for its unique, tassel-like flower clusters that bloom in shades of blue, purple, and white.

Tassel hyacinth is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought, but it will perform best with regular watering. Tassel hyacinth is also relatively pest-resistant, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.

To maintain tassel hyacinth, it is important to deadhead the spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. The plant can benefit from a light fertilizer application every few weeks during the growing season. After the flowers have faded, allow the foliage to die back naturally before cutting it back. This will allow the bulb to store up energy for next year’s growth. Tassel hyacinth can be propagated through division in the fall, after the foliage has died back. The bulbs should be planted about 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart.

Tea rose (Rosa sinensis)

Tea rose is a type of hybrid rose that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is also known as China rose or Bengal rose. Tea roses are believed to have originated in China, where they were first cultivated for their fragrance and beauty. Today, tea roses are grown worldwide and are popular for their large, fragrant flowers that come in a wide range of colors.

The Tea Rose is relatively easy to grow and maintain. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They also need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Tea roses are susceptible to fungal diseases, so it is important to keep the foliage dry by watering at the base of the plant and avoiding overhead watering.

The plant can benefit from a light fertilizer application every few weeks during the growing season. Tea roses should be pruned in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased wood and shape the plant. Tea roses can be propagated through cuttings taken in the summer or through grafting onto a rootstock.

Teddy bear sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

Teddy bear sunflower is an annual flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a cultivar of the common sunflower and is known for its fluffy, round flower heads that resemble teddy bears. Teddy bear sunflowers are native to North America, but they are now grown all over the world as ornamental plants.

Teddy bear sunflowers are relatively easy to grow and maintain. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They can tolerate some drought, but they will perform best with regular watering. Teddy bear sunflowers are also relatively pest-resistant, making them a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.

The plant can benefit from a light fertilizer application every few weeks during the growing season. Teddy bear sunflowers can grow quite tall, so it may be necessary to stake them to prevent them from falling over in strong winds. After the flowers have faded, allow the seeds to mature on the plant before harvesting them. Teddy bear sunflowers can be propagated through seed, which should be sown directly in the garden after the last frost.

Telstar daisy (Aster novae-angliae)

Telstar daisy is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America, specifically the eastern United States. Telstar daisy is known for its large, showy flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white.

Telstar daisy is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought, but it will perform best with regular watering. Telstar daisy is also relatively pest-resistant, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.

Telstar daisy can grow quite tall, so it may be necessary to stake it to prevent it from falling over in strong winds. After the flowers have faded, cut the plant back to about 6 inches above the ground. This will help prevent the plant from becoming too leggy and will encourage new growth. Telstar daisy can be propagated through division in the spring or fall. The plant should be divided every few years to prevent overcrowding.

Temple flower (Plumeria rubra)

Temple flower (Plumeria rubra) is a tropical flowering plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to Central and South America, but it has been widely cultivated in tropical regions around the world, including Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Temple flower is known for its fragrant, showy flowers that come in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white.

Temple flower is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought, but it will perform best with regular watering. Temple flower is also relatively pest-resistant, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.

To look after temple flower, it is important to fertilize the plant regularly during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with a higher percentage of phosphorus can help encourage more blooms. Temple flower can be pruned in the winter to remove any dead or diseased wood and to shape the plant. It is also important to protect the plant from cold temperatures, as it is not frost-tolerant. In areas with cold winters, temple flower should be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter months. Temple flower can be propagated through cuttings taken in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be allowed to dry for a few days before being planted in well-draining soil.

Thistle (Cirsium vulgare)

Thistle is a biennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia. Thistle is known for its spiny leaves and stems, as well as its purple or pink flowers that bloom in the summer.

Thistle is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought, but it will perform best with regular watering. Thistle is also relatively pest-resistant, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.

Thistle can be propagated through seed, which should be sown directly in the garden in the fall or early spring. The plant will self-seed readily, so it is important to remove any unwanted seedlings to prevent overcrowding. If thistle becomes too invasive, it can be controlled through regular weeding or by using a herbicide specifically designed for thistle control.

Thoroughwort (Eupatorium perfoliatum)

Thoroughwort, also known as boneset, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America, specifically the eastern and central regions of the United States and Canada. Thoroughwort is known for its clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall.

Thoroughwort is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought, but it will perform best with regular watering. Thoroughwort is also relatively pest-resistant, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.

To maintain thoroughwort, it is important to deadhead the spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. The plant can benefit from a light fertilizer application in the spring, especially if the soil is poor. Thoroughwort can be propagated through division in the spring or fall. The plant should be divided every few years to prevent overcrowding. It is important to note that thoroughwort can spread rapidly and become invasive in some areas, so it should be planted with caution. In some regions, thoroughwort is considered a weed and is subject to control measures.

Threadleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis verticillata)

Threadleaf coreopsis (Coreopsis verticillata) is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America, specifically the eastern and central regions of the United States. Threadleaf coreopsis is known for its delicate, fern-like foliage and bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer.

Threadleaf coreopsis is a relatively easy plant to grow and maintain. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought, but it will perform best with regular watering. Threadleaf coreopsis is also relatively pest-resistant, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens.

Threadleaf coreopsis is a relatively short-lived perennial, so it may need to be divided every few years to prevent overcrowding and maintain its vigor. It is also important to protect the plant from cold temperatures, as it is not frost-tolerant. In areas with cold winters, threadleaf coreopsis should be cut back to about 2 inches above the ground in the fall and covered with a layer of mulch to protect the roots. Threadleaf coreopsis can be propagated through division in the spring or fall. The plant should be divided into small clumps and replanted in well-draining soil.

Throatwort (Trachelium caeruleum)

Throatwort is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. Throatwort is known for its clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of blue, purple, and pink.

Throatwort prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can tolerate some drought, but it will perform best with regular watering. Throatwort is also relatively pest-resistant, making it a good choice for low-maintenance gardens. Throatwort can be propagated through division in the spring or fall. The plant should be divided every few years to prevent overcrowding and maintain its vigor. Throatwort is also a good cut flower and can be used in fresh or dried arrangements.

Tiger flower (Tigridia pavonia)

A captivating and unique flowering plant that belongs to the Iris family, Iridaceae. Native to Central America and Mexico, the Tiger Flower is celebrated for its stunning, tiger-like patterns on its petals and its brief yet glorious flowering period.

One of the remarkable features of the Tiger Flower is its ephemeral nature. The blooms typically only last for a day, but they are produced in succession over several weeks. Each morning, the flower unfurls its petals to reveal its vivid colors and striking patterns, and by the following day, it begins to wither.

Tigridia pavonia comes in a variety of colors, including shades of red, orange, yellow, and white. Its blooms stand atop tall stems and are surrounded by grass-like foliage, creating a visually pleasing display in gardens and landscapes. Due to its distinct appearance and intriguing blooming behavior, the Tiger Flower is often used in ornamental planting schemes and can be a conversation starter in any floral arrangement.

Cultivating Tiger Flowers requires a sunny location with well-draining soil. They are usually planted in the spring, and their corms (underground storage organs similar to bulbs) should be lifted and stored during the dormant season to protect them from frost. While they may need a bit of care, the reward of witnessing their striking and ephemeral beauty is well worth the effort.

Tiger lily (Lilium tigrinum)

A striking and distinctive flowering plant that belongs to the Lilium genus within the Liliaceae family. Native to parts of Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea, the Tiger Lily is known for its vibrant and bold appearance, as well as its historical and cultural significance.

The name “Tiger Lily” is derived from the flower’s appearance, which often features large, showy blooms with distinctive dark spots or freckles on the petals, resembling the markings on a tiger’s coat. These spots are a defining characteristic of the Tiger Lily and contribute to its unique charm.

Tiger Lilies typically grow on tall, sturdy stems that can reach impressive heights. The flowers themselves are large, with recurved petals that create an open and dramatic appearance. They come in various colors, including shades of orange, red, and yellow, and their vivid hues make them stand out in gardens and floral arrangements.

Cultivating Tiger Lilies can be a rewarding endeavor for gardeners. They prefer well-drained soil and a sunny to partially shaded location. These lilies can be planted in the fall for spring bloom, or in the spring for summer bloom. They are known for their hardiness and ability to naturalize, which means they can gradually spread and multiply over time.

Toadflax (Linaria vulgaris)

Toadflax is commonly referred to as butter-and-eggs or wild snapdragon, is a charming and delicate flowering plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, this perennial herbaceous plant has also found its way into gardens and landscapes around the world due to its dainty appearance and colorful blooms.

Standing at a height of about 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm), toadflax features slender stems adorned with lance-shaped leaves that alternate along the stem. The leaves are pale green and give the plant an overall airy and graceful demeanor.

The flowers of toadflax are reminiscent of miniature snapdragons, with a unique and intricate structure. They consist of a spurred, tubular corolla with two lips – a larger lower lip and a smaller upper lip. The corolla’s colors range from pale yellow to a deeper orange-yellow, and in some instances, white. The resemblance to a dragon’s face, when the flower is gently squeezed, has earned it the nickname “wild snapdragon.”

Torch lily (Kniphofia uvaria)

Torch Lily, also known as Red Hot Poker, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Asphodelaceae. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly found in grasslands, rocky outcrops, and marsh areas.

Torch Lily is a striking plant that produces tall spikes of tubular flowers that range in color from red, orange, and yellow to green and white. The flowers are arranged in a dense cluster at the top of a long stem, which gives the plant its distinctive torch-like appearance. The leaves are long and narrow, and the plant can grow up to 5 feet tall.

To keep Torch Lily healthy and thriving, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season. It is also important to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.

In colder climates, Torch Lily may need to be protected from frost during the winter months. This can be done by covering the plant with a layer of mulch or moving it to a protected location. With proper care, Torch Lily can be a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.

Touch-me-not (Impatiens biflora)

Touch-me-not, also known as Impatiens biflora, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. This plant is native to North America and is commonly found in wetlands, along streams, and in moist woodlands.

Touch-me-not is an annual plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and produces clusters of small, yellow flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are followed by seed pods that explode when touched, which is how the plant got its common name. The leaves are green and oval-shaped, and the plant has a slightly bushy appearance.

To keep Touch-me-not healthy and thriving, it is important to plant it in moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers partial to full shade and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is also important to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.

Touch-me-not is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases and pests such as spider mites. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to remove any infected or damaged leaves or stems.

Tree mallow (Lavatera arborea)

Flowering plants that belong to the family Malvaceae. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in coastal areas, along roadsides, and in disturbed habitats.

Tree Mallow is a shrub-like plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall and produces large, showy flowers that range in color from pink, lavender, and white to red and purple. The flowers bloom in the summer months and are arranged in clusters at the top of the plant. The leaves are green and heart-shaped, and the plant has a slightly bushy appearance.

To keep Tree Mallow healthy and thriving, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is also important to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.

Tree Mallow is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can be susceptible to pests such as spider mites and aphids. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to remove any infected or damaged leaves or stems.

Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa)

Tree Peony, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Paeoniaceae. This plant is native to China and is commonly found in mountainous regions, forest edges, and along rivers.

Tree Peony is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and produces large, showy flowers that range in color from white, pink, and red to yellow and purple. The flowers bloom in the late spring or early summer and are often fragrant. The leaves are green and deeply lobed, and the plant has a bushy appearance.

To keep Tree Peony healthy and thriving, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is also important to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.

Tree Peony is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can be susceptible to pests such as mealybugs and scale insects. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to remove any infected or damaged leaves or stems.

Trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans)

A flowering vine that belongs to the family Bignoniaceae. This plant is native to the southeastern United States and is commonly found in forests, along roadsides, and in disturbed habitats.

Trumpet Creeper is a fast-growing vine that can climb up to 40 feet tall and produces clusters of large, trumpet-shaped flowers that range in color from orange and red to yellow. The flowers bloom in the summer months and are attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators. The leaves are green and pinnate, and the plant has a slightly woody appearance.

It is important to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather.

Trumpet Creeper is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can be invasive and aggressive. It is important to plant it in an area where it has plenty of room to grow and where it will not interfere with other plants or structures. It can also be pruned back in the fall to control its growth and prevent it from spreading too far.

Overall, Trumpet Creeper is a beautiful and unique plant that can add interest to any garden or landscape. Its fast growth and attractive flowers make it a great choice for covering walls, trellises, and other structures. However, it is important to be aware of its invasive tendencies and to plant it in a suitable location.

Trumpet lily (Lilium regale)

A flowering plant that belongs to the family Liliaceae. This plant is native to western China and is commonly found in mountainous regions and forests.

Trumpet Lily is a bulbous perennial plant that can grow up to 5 feet tall and produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that are white with a pinkish-purple tint. The flowers bloom in the summer months and are highly fragrant. The leaves are green and lance-shaped, and the plant has a slightly bushy appearance.

To keep Trumpet Lily healthy and thriving, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season. It is also important to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.

Trumpet Lily is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and spider mites. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to remove any infected or damaged leaves or stems.

Trumpet vine (Bignonia capreolata)

A flowering vine that belongs to the family Bignoniaceae. This plant is native to the southeastern United States and is commonly found in forests, along roadsides, and in disturbed habitats.

Trumpet Vine is a fast-growing vine that can climb up to 40 feet tall and produces clusters of large, trumpet-shaped flowers that are orange-red and bloom in the summer months. The leaves are green and compound, and the plant has a slightly woody appearance.

To grow Trumpet Vine, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is also important to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.

Trumpet Vine is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can be invasive and aggressive. It is important to plant it in an area where it has plenty of room to grow and where it will not interfere with other plants or structures. It can also be pruned back in the fall to control its growth and prevent it from spreading too far.

Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa)

A flowering plant that belongs to the family Asparagaceae. This plant is native to Mexico and is commonly found in tropical regions.

Tuberose is a bulbous perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and produces clusters of fragrant, white flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are tubular and arranged in spikes, and they are highly valued for their sweet fragrance. The leaves are green and narrow, and the plant has a slightly bushy appearance.

To grow Tuberose, it is important to plant the bulbs in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season.

Tuberose is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can be susceptible to pests such as spider mites and aphids. Its fragrant flowers make it a great choice for cut flower arrangements, and it is also attractive to bees and other pollinators. With proper care, Tuberose can live for many years and provide years of enjoyment.

Tulip (Tulipa spp.)

Tulips are a type of flowering plant that belong to the genus Tulipa and the family Liliaceae. They are native to central Asia and Turkey, and are widely cultivated for their brightly colored, cup-shaped flowers. Tulips are bulbous perennials that grow from bulbs, and they typically bloom in the spring months. They come in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, red, purple, and orange, and there are many different varieties and cultivars to choose from. Tulips are popular garden plants and are often used in flower arrangements and as cut flowers. They are also a symbol of the Netherlands, where they are widely cultivated and celebrated during the annual Tulip Festival.

Turkish carnation (Dianthus barbatus)

Turkish Carnation, also known as Dianthus barbatus, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to Turkey and the Balkans and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.

Turkish Carnation is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall and produces clusters of fragrant, pink, red, or white flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are typically double or semi-double and have frilly edges. The leaves are green and narrow, and the plant has a slightly bushy appearance.

To grow Turkish Carnation, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season. It is also important to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season.

Turkish Carnation is generally a low-maintenance plant, but it can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and spider mites. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and to remove any infected or damaged leaves or stems.

Turk’s cap lily (Lilium superbum)

A stunning and captivating flowering plant native to North America. Belonging to the Liliaceae family, this lily species is renowned for its unique appearance, vibrant blooms, and its ability to thrive in a variety of habitats.

The name “Turk’s Cap Lily” is derived from the distinctive shape of its flowers. The blooms feature recurved petals that curl back, giving them the appearance of a turban or cap, similar to headwear often associated with Turkish culture. This unique form sets the Turk’s Cap Lily apart from other lily varieties.

The Turk’s Cap Lily typically grows in woodland areas, moist meadows, and along streams and rivers. Its preferred habitats reflect its preference for moist, well-drained soils and partially shaded environments. The plants can reach impressive heights, often standing between 3 to 7 feet (about 1 to 2 meters), with each stem bearing a cluster of these eye-catching, downward-curving flowers.

The flowers themselves are generally a shade of orange, but they can vary from deep red-orange to a softer yellow-orange. The petals are often adorned with dark spots or freckles, adding to their visual appeal. The Turk’s Cap Lily’s blooms are not only aesthetically pleasing but also attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, contributing to the local ecosystem.

Turtlehead (Chelone glabra)

Turtlehead (Chelone glabra) is a captivating North American perennial wildflower that graces wetlands, streambanks, and woodland edges with its unique appearance. Its name is derived from the shape of its blossoms, which resemble the head of a turtle.

Growing up to 3 feet (about 1 meter) tall, Turtlehead boasts sturdy stems adorned with glossy, lance-shaped leaves. Its most distinctive feature is its tubular flowers, which come in shades of pink or white. These flowers have two lips: the upper lip forms a hood, and the lower lip spreads wide, resembling the open mouth of a turtle. Blooming in late summer to early fall, Turtlehead provides a welcome burst of color when many other flowers have faded.

Thriving in moist to wet soil, Turtlehead is well-suited to rain gardens, water edges, and other damp environments. This adaptable plant adds a touch of elegance and charm to these spaces, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich blooms.

Beyond its visual appeal, Turtlehead holds medicinal value in traditional herbal medicine. Some Indigenous communities have used parts of the plant for various purposes, including treating ailments and skin conditions.

Turtlehead’s unique flowers, adaptability to wet habitats, and ecological role in supporting pollinators underline its significance in North American landscapes. Whether admired for its curious blossoms or valued for its historical uses, Turtlehead is a botanical gem that continues to captivate nature enthusiasts and plant lovers alike.

Twinflower (Linnaea borealis)

A delicate and enchanting perennial plant that holds a special place in the hearts of many nature enthusiasts. Native to cool, northern regions of North America, Europe, and Asia, this diminutive beauty is celebrated for its elegant simplicity and its association with the famed Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus.

Growing only a few inches tall, Twinflower features pairs of bell-shaped, pale pink to white blossoms that dangle from slender stems. The flowers emit a subtle, sweet fragrance that adds to their allure. Linnaea borealis thrives in forested environments, particularly in areas with moist, acidic soil.

Twinflower’s name pays homage to its paired blossoms, which seem to mimic the joining of two delicate flowers on a single stem. Its connection to Linnaeus, who adopted it as a symbol for his own name and for the unity of all living things, adds a layer of historical significance to its appeal.

This understated plant’s role in folklore and cultural history enhances its charm. It has been regarded as a symbol of humility and harmony, inspiring poets, artists, and nature lovers across generations.

Twinflower’s ability to thrive in shaded woodlands and its understated elegance make it a cherished wildflower. Its presence brings a touch of magic to the forest floor, reminding us of the beauty that can be found in the most unassuming corners of the natural world.

Two-lipped sage (Salvia greggii)

Two-lipped sage (Salvia greggii), also known as autumn sage, is a striking perennial herb that hails from the southwestern regions of the United States and northern Mexico. Renowned for its vibrant blooms and aromatic foliage, this plant has earned a well-deserved spot in both natural landscapes and cultivated gardens.

Standing at a height of around 1 to 3 feet, two-lipped sage features slender stems lined with soft, ovate leaves. Its most captivating feature, however, lies in its blossoms. These small, tubular flowers come in a captivating array of hues, including shades of red, pink, orange, and even white. The blooms are two-lipped, with the upper lip often curving upward and the lower lip extending outward, creating an inviting landing platform for pollinators.

Two-lipped sage is prized not only for its visual appeal but also for its ability to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees with its abundant nectar. Its fragrance is a delightful bonus, releasing a sweet and earthy scent when brushed against or gently touched.

As a drought-tolerant and sun-loving plant, two-lipped sage is well-suited for arid and xeriscaped gardens. It thrives in well-draining soil and basks in full sunlight, making it a popular choice for water-wise landscaping. Furthermore, its long flowering season, extending from late spring through fall, ensures a consistent burst of color in the garden.