FRESNO, Calif. — A lightning-sparked wildfire in California’s Sierra National Forest burned Tuesday through a grove of giant sequoias and set some of the ancient towering trees on fire.
Wildland firefighters with tree-climbing experience were being sent in to put out the fire burning in the canopies of the beloved trees, said Jay Tracy, a spokesperson for the Garnet Fire ablaze in Fresno County.
To protect the majestic trees, some estimated to be 3,000 years old, fire crews laid sprinkler lines to increase ground moisture, wrapped the trunks with fire-resistant foil blankets, raked flammable material away from trees and patrolled the area looking for hotspots, he said.
Sequoias grow naturally only in a 260-mile (420 kilometers) belt of forest on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains in California. They have massive trunks and can grow over 300 feet (90 meters) tall.
The sequoia is the world’s largest tree by volume and closely related to the redwood, the world’s tallest.
“These trees are near and dear to the forest and to our community and we want to do our best to protect them,” Tracy said.
The Garnet Fire, which started on Aug. 24, reached the southeast side of the 100-acre (40-hectare) McKinley Grove sometime Sunday night or Monday morning, he said.
The giant trees rely on low-intensity fire to help open their cones to disperse seeds, and flames clear undergrowth so seedlings can take root and get sunlight. The Garnet Fire, however, is more intense, Tracy said.
The blaze has scorched 85 square miles (220 square km) of grass, chaparral and timber in a remote area known for camping and hiking about 60 miles (97 km) east of Fresno. It was about 14% contained as of Tuesday.
Glow-in-the-dark plants bright enough to light up streets at night may sound like the stuff of science fiction or fantasy.But scientists have already made plants that emit a greenish glow. They are even commercially available in the United States.A group of Chinese researchers has just gone even further, creating what they say are the first multicolored and brightest-ever luminescent plants.”Picture the world of Avatar, where glowing plants light up an entire ecosystem,” biologist Shuting Liu, a researcher at South China Agricultural University in Guangzhou and co-author of the study published Aug. 27 in the journal Matter, said in a statement.”We wanted to make that vision possible using materials we already work with in the lab. Imagine glowing trees replacing streetlights,” she added.To make the plants glow, Liu and her fellow researchers injected the leaves of the succulent Echeveria “Mebina” with strontium aluminate, a material often used in glow-in-the-dark toys that absorbs light and gradually releases it over time.This method marks a departure from the traditional gene-editing technique that scientists use to achieve this effect, following a model pioneered by a team at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.Injecting a plant with nanoparticles instead of editing its genes allowed the researchers to create plants that glow red, blue, and green. Normally, constrained by the plant’s natural color, scientists can only create a green glow.”Gene editing is an excellent approach,” Liu told CNN in an email Tuesday, but added: “We were particularly inspired by inorganic afterglow materials that can be ‘charged’ by light and then release it slowly as afterglow, as well as by prior efforts on glowing plants that hinted at plant-based lighting — even concepts like plant streetlights.””Our goal was therefore to integrate multicolor, long-afterglow materials with plants to move beyond the usual color limits of plant luminescence and provide a photosynthesis-independent way for plants to store and release light — essentially, a light charged, living plant lamp,” she added.The research team attempted to show the practical application of their idea by constructing a green wall made of 56 plants that produced enough light to see text, images and a person located up to 10 centimeters (4 inches) away, according to the study.Once injected and placed under direct sunlight for a couple of minutes, the plants continued to glow for up to two hours.While the brightness of the afterglow gradually weakened during that time period, “plants can be recharged repeatedly by exposure to sunlight,” Liu said. The sun replenishes the plants’ stored energy, “allowing the plants to continue glowing after the sunlight is removed.”The plants maintain the ability to emit the afterglow effect 25 days after treatment, Liu said, and older leaves injected with the afterglow particles continue to emit light under UV stimulation “even after wilting.”While strontium aluminate can readily decompose in plants, posing harm to plant tissue, Liu said, the scientists developed a chemical coating for the material that acts as a protective barrier.The researchers said in the paper that they see their findings as highlighting “the potential of luminescent plants as sustainable and efficient lighting systems, capable of harvesting sunlight during the day and emitting light at night.”However, other scientists are skeptical about the practicality. “I like the paper, it’s fun, but I think it’s a little beyond current technology, and it might be beyond what plants can bear,” biochemist John Carr, a professor of plant sciences at the University of Cambridge, who was not involved in the study, told CNN.”Because of the limited amount of energy that these plants can emit, I don’t really see them as streetlights anytime soon,” he added.Liu acknowledged that the plants “are still far from providing functional illumination, as their luminescence intensity remains too weak for practical lighting applications. Additionally, the safety assessment of afterglow particles for both plants and animals is still ongoing.”She said the luminescent plants currently “can primarily serve as decorative display pieces or ornamental night lights.”However, Liu added, “Looking ahead, if we can significantly enhance the brightness and extend the duration of luminescence — and once safety is conclusively demonstrated — we could envision gardens or public spaces being softly illuminated at night by glowing plants.”
Glow-in-the-dark plants bright enough to light up streets at night may sound like the stuff of science fiction or fantasy.
But scientists have alreadymade plants that emit a greenish glow. They are even commercially available in the United States.
A group of Chinese researchers has just gone even further, creating what they say are the first multicolored and brightest-ever luminescent plants.
“Picture the world of Avatar, where glowing plants light up an entire ecosystem,” biologist Shuting Liu, a researcher at South China Agricultural University in Guangzhou and co-author of the study published Aug. 27 in the journal Matter, said in a statement.
“We wanted to make that vision possible using materials we already work with in the lab. Imagine glowing trees replacing streetlights,” she added.
To make the plants glow, Liu and her fellow researchers injected the leaves of the succulent Echeveria “Mebina” with strontium aluminate, a material often used in glow-in-the-dark toys that absorbs light and gradually releases it over time.
Injecting a plant with nanoparticles instead of editing its genes allowed the researchers to create plants that glow red, blue, and green. Normally, constrained by the plant’s natural color, scientists can only create a green glow.
“Gene editing is an excellent approach,” Liu told CNN in an email Tuesday, but added: “We were particularly inspired by inorganic afterglow materials that can be ‘charged’ by light and then release it slowly as afterglow, as well as by prior efforts on glowing plants that hinted at plant-based lighting — even concepts like plant streetlights.”
“Our goal was therefore to integrate multicolor, long-afterglow materials with plants to move beyond the usual color limits of plant luminescence and provide a photosynthesis-independent way for plants to store and release light — essentially, a light charged, living plant lamp,” she added.
The research team attempted to show the practical application of their idea by constructing a green wall made of 56 plants that produced enough light to see text, images and a person located up to 10 centimeters (4 inches) away, according to the study.
Once injected and placed under direct sunlight for a couple of minutes, the plants continued to glow for up to two hours.
While the brightness of the afterglow gradually weakened during that time period, “plants can be recharged repeatedly by exposure to sunlight,” Liu said. The sun replenishes the plants’ stored energy, “allowing the plants to continue glowing after the sunlight is removed.”
The plants maintain the ability to emit the afterglow effect 25 days after treatment, Liu said, and older leaves injected with the afterglow particles continue to emit light under UV stimulation “even after wilting.”
While strontium aluminate can readily decompose in plants, posing harm to plant tissue, Liu said, the scientists developed a chemical coating for the material that acts as a protective barrier.
The researchers said in the paper that they see their findings as highlighting “the potential of luminescent plants as sustainable and efficient lighting systems, capable of harvesting sunlight during the day and emitting light at night.”
However, other scientists are skeptical about the practicality. “I like the paper, it’s fun, but I think it’s a little beyond current technology, and it might be beyond what plants can bear,” biochemist John Carr, a professor of plant sciences at the University of Cambridge, who was not involved in the study, told CNN.
“Because of the limited amount of energy that these plants can emit, I don’t really see them as streetlights anytime soon,” he added.
Liu acknowledged that the plants “are still far from providing functional illumination, as their luminescence intensity remains too weak for practical lighting applications. Additionally, the safety assessment of afterglow particles for both plants and animals is still ongoing.”
She said the luminescent plants currently “can primarily serve as decorative display pieces or ornamental night lights.”
However, Liu added, “Looking ahead, if we can significantly enhance the brightness and extend the duration of luminescence — and once safety is conclusively demonstrated — we could envision gardens or public spaces being softly illuminated at night by glowing plants.”
PAW PAW, Mich. — Robb Rynd and his brother grew up farming and wanted to do more of it outside their day jobs, so they went in together on what’s now a little over 200 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat and sorghum. Last year was a good year, and Rynd said he enjoyed walking the fields with his kids to see how the corn was doing.
This year is a different story.
All summer he’s been scouting for brown and wilting leaves or ears of corn with kernels missing, and now it’s becoming clear that every kernel will count this harvest. “It’s almost kind of depressing to go out there and look at it and say, ‘oh yep, it does look bad,’” he said.
Across major corn-growing states, climate change is fueling conditions that make watching the corn grow a nail-biter for farmers. Factors like consistently high summer overnight temperatures, droughts and heavier-than-usual rains at the wrong time can all disrupt the plants’ pollination — making each full ear of corn less of a guarantee and more of a gamble.
Overall, corn growers got lucky this year with late-season weather that contributed to what is now predicted to be a record bumper crop. But experts say bouts of extreme weather are intensifying the waiting game during a critical time of year between planting and harvest.
Human-caused climate change has worsened multiple U.S. extreme heat events this year and has steadily increased the likelihood of hotter overnight temperatures since 1970, according to Climate Central, an independent group of scientists who communicate climate science and data to the public.
”The hot nights too, like the corn’s never getting a break. It’s just hot all the time,” Rynd said. “I know it’s wearing on me.”
As a corn plant grows, the leaves unroll to reveal the tassel, the part that sheds pollen, explained Mark Licht, an associate professor of agronomy and an extension cropping systems specialist at Iowa State University. If the plant grows too fast, which can happen when it’s consistently very hot, the tassel may be wrapped too tightly by the leaf, meaning less pollen gets released.
High temperatures can stress corn in other ways, lowering pollen production, reducing pollen’s viability or drying out other parts of the plants, reducing fertility. “I think any of the pollination issues that we might be having are more because the nights have been so exceedingly warm,” said Larry Walton, who farms near Rynd in southwestern Michigan, where many farmers irrigate because it’s a drier area.
“We tend to see pollination issues being more problematic when we have high temperatures and drought conditions or lack of rainfall,” Licht said. Yet Iowa had plenty of rain and still saw some pollination issues. Excessive moisture can cause corn smut, a type of fungus that grows on the ears.
He said farmers are having to pay more attention to this because “there’s just more variable weather.”
This winter, the U.S. drought monitor reported drought in nearly 60% of corn production areas in the Midwest. But near or above normal rainfall nearly everywhere east of the Rockies this summer brought that down to just 3% as of the beginning of August, said Brad Rippey, a meteorologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
That, combined with consistent heat, means that “we are expecting a monster U.S. corn crop in 2025,” Rippey said.
But it wasn’t easy for everyone. “This has probably been one of the most difficult growing seasons that I’ve experienced in my career,” said Philip Good, a farmer in Macon, Mississippi and chair of the United Soybean Board. He planted his corn and soybeans 60 days behind schedule because it rained nearly every day for two months.
They lost some fertilizer and some plants died in standing water, Good said, but they made up for it with some lucky weather later in the season.
“The rain does fall in heavier bursts,” Rippey said. He said that can be an issue for farmers because even when it doesn’t cause flash floods, the moisture doesn’t necessarily percolate into the soil. It runs off and carries fertilizer with it, which is a problem for rivers’ health and farmers’ pocketbooks.
The trend toward higher humidity levels and warmer ocean temperatures, contributing to hotter nights, could be a bigger issue going forward, putting stress on crops like corn and soybeans, Rippey added.
Late summer is a make-or-break time for farmers: They’re trying to gauge how much they’ll make from the year’s crop and planning their next steps, and patchy pollination doesn’t help.
“We’d like to upgrade a tractor … or we’d maybe try to pick up some more ground,” Rynd said. “It’s hard to want to go do those things when you have a bad year like this.”
When the uncertain pollination is at its worst, if 15% to 25% of every ear of corn doesn’t have kernels, that could mean a significant yield loss over a large field, said Nicolle Ritchie, a Michigan State University extension agent who helps Walton and Rynd survey their crops.
Jason Cope co-founded a farm tech company called PowerPollen whose equipment can mechanically collect pollen and then pollinate future crops. He said that due to extreme weather events, the number of “rescue” pollination jobs they’ve done for customers — to save fields that didn’t naturally pollinate very well — has nearly doubled since they started in 2018.
Walton said he can manage as long as the pollination issues don’t get too bad.
“You learn to roll with the stress part of it because most of that you can’t control anyway,” he added. ___
The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
Are rabbits and groundhogs chewing through your garden like it’s an all-you-can-eat buffet? You’re not alone — and one gardener has had enough.
“They didn’t care about the fancy preventatives,” said TikToker Sonya (@njgardenteacher) in a video where she showed damage to her Alabama Black-Eyed Butterbean Lima plants. “They’ve also pulled some of my plants out of the ground.”
That’s not a small problem. Rabbits and groundhogs are known for yanking up entire seedlings and defoliating plants. Left unchecked, they can destroy weeks of work in a single morning.
But here’s the twist. After trying all the usual tricks, she found one unlikely hero: cayenne pepper.
The scoop
Turns out, you don’t need fancy sprays or ultrasonic gadgets. Just grab the cayenne pepper from your kitchen cabinet. Sprinkle it directly around the base of your plants and even on the leaves. You can also mix it with water and a few drops of dish soap to spray over vulnerable crops.
Cayenne contains capsaicin, the stuff that gives peppers their heat. It doesn’t hurt the animals, but it hits their nose hard — especially mammals like groundhogs and rabbits, who have powerful senses of smell. Birds? No problem. Capsaicin doesn’t bother them.
“They don’t like the scent of it, and they don’t like the spice,” she explained. “Once they’re getting a good whiff of that cayenne, they’re leaving my plants alone.”
In the video, Sonya walks through how and where to apply the spice and shows clear results.
“I do have to reapply it after every rain,” she added, “but that’s OK.”
How it’s helping
This hack doesn’t just save your garden. It saves money. No need to buy chemical sprays or build elaborate fencing. A dollar store jar of cayenne will do the trick — and it lasts a while.
What’s the hardest thing about taking care of your yard?
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.
It also keeps chemicals out of your soil and off your food. Harsh pesticides can harm pollinators and even affect your own health. A natural deterrent like cayenne helps you protect your plants without adding pollution.
If you’re growing your own food, this trick pulls double duty. It protects your harvest and supports a cleaner, healthier way to eat. Home gardening already boosts physical health and reduces stress. One study even linked community gardening to improved fiber intake and lower mental health risk.
Maybe the only thing tougher than a pepper is a hungry groundhog. Still, for most folks, this pantry fix is keeping gardens safe and dinners fresh.
What everyone’s saying
People chimed in with their own experiences.
“Oh this [is] so smart,” said one commenter.
“Worked for years till one day I got a groundhog who liked his food spicy,” joked another.
Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don’t miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
TOKYO — A robot that has spent months inside the ruins of a nuclear reactor at the tsunami-hit Fukushima Daiichi plant delivered a tiny sample of melted nuclear fuel on Thursday, in what plant officials said was a step toward beginning the cleanup of hundreds of tons of melted fuel debris.
The sample, the size of a grain of rice, was placed into a secure container, marking the end of the mission, according to Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, which manages the plant. It is being transported to a glove box for size and weight measurements before being sent to outside laboratories for detailed analyses over the coming months.
Plant chief Akira Ono has said it will provide key data to plan a decommissioning strategy, develop necessary technology and robots and learn how the accident had developed.
Despite multiple probes in the years since the 2011 disaster that wrecked the plant and forced thousands of nearby residents to leave their homes, much about the site’s highly radioactive interior remains a mystery.
The sample, the first to be retrieved from inside a reactor, was significantly less radioactive than expected. Officials had been concerned that it might be too radioactive to be safely tested even with heavy protective gear, and set an upper limit for removal out of the reactor. The sample came in well under the limit.
That’s led some to question whether the robot extracted the nuclear fuel it was looking for from an area in which previous probes have detected much higher levels of radioactive contamination, but TEPCO officials insist they believe the sample is melted fuel.
The extendable robot, nicknamed Telesco, first began its mission August with a plan for a two-week round trip, after previous missions had been delayed since 2021. But progress was suspended twice due to mishaps — the first involving an assembly error that took nearly three weeks to fix, and the second a camera failure.
On Oct. 30, it clipped a sample weighting less than 3 grams (.01 ounces) from the surface of a mound of melted fuel debris sitting on the bottom of the primary containment vessel of the Unit 2 reactor, TEPCO said.
On Thursday, the gravel, whose radioactivity earlier this week recorded far below the upper limit set for its environmental and health safety, was placed into a safe container for removal out of the compartment.
The sample return marks the first time the melted fuel is retrieved out of the containment vessel.
Fukushima Daiichi lost its key cooling systems during a 2011 earthquake and tsunami, causing meltdowns in its three reactors. An estimated 880 tons of fatally radioactive melted fuel remains in them.
The government and TEPCO have set a 30-to-40-year target to finish the cleanup by 2051, which experts say is overly optimistic and should be updated. Some say it would take for a century or longer.
No specific plans for the full removal of the fuel debris or its final disposal have been decided.
Flowers have a remarkable ability to bring beauty and personality to our gardens, and there’s something delightful about exploring varieties that start with a particular letter. In this case, let’s dive into the world of flowers that start with P.
Whether you’re looking for fragrant blooms, hardy perennials, or something with a touch of symbolism, this list of flowers beginning with P list is packed with vibrant choices.
From classic garden favourites like Peonies and Poppies to unique finds like the Peruvian Lily and Pheasant’s Eye, there’s something for every type of garden. You’ll discover flowers that thrive in rock gardens, bloom in early spring or late summer, and add splashes of colour across all seasons.
For each flower on this list we’ve included a picture, key flower facts, common names, and associated symbolism.
List of flowers that start with P
Let’s dive into our list of 50 beautiful flowers starting with P and see what inspiration these charming blooms can bring to your floral projects.
Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis)
A low-growing ground cover with small, white flowers, Pachysandra thrives in shade and represents humility. It’s ideal for filling in shaded areas with its glossy leaves.
Paintbrush Lily (Scadoxus puniceus)
This striking plant has a dense, spherical cluster of bright red flowers. Known for its medicinal properties, it symbolises protection and is native to South Africa.
Painted Daisy (Tanacetum coccineum)
The Painted Daisy has cheerful, daisy-like blooms in pink, white, and red. A favourite for pest control in the garden, it symbolises innocence and purity.
Pandanus (Pandanus tectorius)
This tropical plant has fragrant, screw-like leaves. It represents protection and shelter.
Pansy (Viola tricolour var. hortensis)
With face-like markings, the Pansy is beloved for its cheerful look and symbolises thoughtfulness.
Papaya Flower (Carica papaya)
The tropical Papaya plant produces delicate white flowers that are followed by edible fruit. It symbolises abundance and grows best in warm, sunny climates.
Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus)
An ancient plant associated with Egyptian culture, Papyrus has unique, fan-like flower clusters. It symbolises history and knowledge and grows well in moist, sunny areas.
Pasque Flower (Pulsatilla vulgaris)
This early spring flower has delicate, bell-shaped blooms in shades of purple. Often symbolising rebirth, the Pasque Flower is commonly found in sunny rock gardens and is ideal for sandy soils.
Passion Flower (Passiflora spp.)
This exotic climber has intricate, star-shaped flowers with a lovely fragrance. Known to represent spirituality and faith, it thrives in well-drained soil and full sun. Some varieties even bear edible fruit.
Pavonia (Pavonia hastata)
With delicate white and pink flowers, Pavonia is a beautiful choice for part-shade areas. It’s a symbol of grace and prefers well-drained soil.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
Known for its glossy leaves and elegant white flowers, the Peace Lily symbolises tranquility and purity. It’s adaptable and grows well in partial shade, making it a popular indoor plant.
Pearly Everlasting (Anaphalis margaritacea)
This small white flower is known for its durability and symbolises purity and immortality. It’s a lovely addition to dried flower arrangements.
Pelargonium (Pelargonium spp.)
Often confused with Geraniums, these colourful flowers symbolise friendship. They thrive in well-drained, sunny spots and are popular for borders.
Peliosanthes (Peliosanthes spp.)
A tropical plant with small, white flowers, Peliosanthes is known for its attractive foliage and symbolises patience. It prefers part shade and well-drained soil.
Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)
Known for its tubular blooms that attract bees and hummingbirds, Penstemon comes in shades of pink, purple, and blue. Commonly called “Beardtongue,” it symbolises courage and works well in rock gardens, enjoying full sun and well-drained soil.
Peony (Paeonia spp.)
The Peony is often called the king of flowers for its large, luxurious blooms in pink, white, red, and sometimes yellow. These beautiful flowers prefer full sun and well-drained soil and are a great addition to late spring gardens.
Known for its strong fragrance, Peonies symbolise good fortune and romance, making them a popular choice for gardens and bouquets alike.
Perilla (Perilla frutescens)
A member of the mint family, Perilla has aromatic, purple-tinted leaves and small flowers. It’s used in Asian cuisine and symbolises protection and comfort. It thrives in full to part sun and poor soils.
Persian Buttercup (Ranunculus asiaticus)
Persian Buttercups are vibrant, layered blooms in shades of yellow, pink, and red. They add a touch of romance to early summer gardens and symbolise charm and elegance.
Persian Silk Tree (Albizia julibrissin)
More of a flowering tree, this plant’s pink, fluffy flowers add a tropical feel. Known to represent joy, it’s a lovely addition to warm gardens with well-drained soil.
Persicaria (Persicaria spp.)
Also known as Knotweed or Smartweed, Persicaria produces tiny pink, white, or red flowers on tall spikes. It symbolises resilience and flourishes in partial shade. It’s often used as a ground cover in rock gardens.
Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria spp.)
With their striking trumpet-shaped blooms in various colours, Peruvian lilies symbolise friendship and devotion. Ideal for both cut flowers and garden beds, they flourish in full to part sun and add a burst of colour in summer.
Petunia (Petunia spp.)
Petunias bloom in a variety of colours and are symbols of desire and strength. They’re versatile and can thrive in containers, beds, and sunny borders.
Phalaenopsis Orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.)
Commonly called Moth Orchid, Phalaenopsis has exotic, long-lasting blooms that symbolise beauty and elegance. Native to Asia, it’s a popular houseplant, known for its low maintenance and long flowering period.
Pheasant’s Eye (Adonis annua)
This vibrant flower blooms in early summer. Known to symbolise remembrance and beauty, it enjoys full sun and thrives in sandy soils.
Philadelphus (Philadelphus coronarius)
Commonly known as Mock Orange, Philadelphus has fragrant white flowers that smell like orange blossoms. A symbol of memory, it’s a wonderful addition to late spring gardens and prefers full sun.
Phlomis (Phlomis spp.)
Also called Jerusalem Sage, Phlomis has yellow, whorled flowers and thrives in sunny, well-drained areas. It symbolises resilience and is popular in Mediterranean-style gardens.
Phlox (Phlox spp.)
Phlox produces clusters of small, sweet-scented flowers in white, pink, or purple. These symbolise unity and harmony, and they’re perfect for cottage-style gardens. Phlox plants enjoy full sun and well-drained soil.
Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis)
Also known as Scarlet Pimpernel, this delicate red or blue flower symbolises change and curiosity. It enjoys sunny areas and blooms through the summer.
Pincushion Flower (Scabiosa spp.)
Named for its unique, cushion-like blooms, the Pincushion Flower is perfect for rock gardens and well-drained soil. These soft purple or blue flowers are symbols of peace and love, blooming from early summer to early autumn.
Pine Lily (Lilium catesbaei)
A wild lily with bright orange-red blooms, Pine Lily is native to North America and thrives in sunny, well-drained areas. It symbolises passion and vitality.
Pineapple Lily (Eucomis spp.)
This tropical flower has a pineapple-like cluster of blooms in shades of white, pink, and green. A symbol of hospitality, it’s an exotic choice for well-drained, sunny spots.
Pink Turtlehead (Chelone obliqua)
These unique pink flowers resemble a turtle’s head and prefer partial shade. They symbolise resilience and determination, making them a striking choice for damp garden spots.
Platycodon (Platycodon grandiflorus)
Also known as Balloon Flower, Platycodon has blue, pink, or white bell-shaped blooms that “inflate” before opening. Representing sincerity, it’s ideal for rock gardens and thrives in full sun to part shade.
Plectranthus (Plectranthus spp.)
With its small purple or white flowers and aromatic foliage, Plectranthus (also known as Spur Flower) is prized for its attractive foliage. It represents resilience and is commonly used as a ground cover in shade.
Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata)
With delicate blue flowers, Plumbago is a symbol of endurance. It’s ideal for full sun and well-drained soil, and is often used as a low hedge or border plant.
Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)
Commonly associated with Christmas, the bright red, pink, or white blooms (which are actually bracts) of Poinsettia add winter cheer and symbolise joy and celebration.
Polemonium (Polemonium caeruleum)
Also called Jacob’s Ladder, Polemonium has lovely blue or purple flowers and symbolises humility. It’s perfect for partial shade and blooms in late spring.
Polyanthus (Primula polyantha)
A variety of primrose, Polyanthus has colourful blooms in red, yellow, and purple. Known to symbolise young love and cheerfulness, it’s a hardy spring bloomer that enjoys moist soil.
Poppy (Papaver spp.)
Poppies are a cheerful sight with their vibrant red, pink, and purple flowers. They thrive in sunny spots and poor soils, blooming in late spring and early summer.
As symbols of remembrance and peace, poppies can bring emotional significance to your garden beds.
Potentilla (Potentilla spp.)
Commonly known as Cinquefoil, Potentilla has delicate yellow flowers and is often grown as a low-maintenance ground cover. It represents strength and adaptability, preferring full sun and well-drained soil.
Pot Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
Bright and cheerful, the Pot Marigold has been used in traditional medicine and is edible, adding colour to salads. Known as a symbol of cheerfulness and health, they bloom from spring to autumn in various colours.
Prairie Gentian (Eustoma grandiflorum)
This stunning flower resembles a rose, with trumpet-shaped blooms in blue, purple, white, or pink. Symbolic of calm and gratitude, it’s native to North America and thrives in well-drained soil and full sun.
Pride of Madeira (Echium candicans)
This eye-catching shrub features tall blue or purple spikes and thrives in sunny, well-drained areas. It’s symbolic of strength and vitality.
Primrose (Primula vulgaris)
A traditional flower in the UK, the primrose is a beautiful early spring bloomer with soft pastel colours. Known for its association with renewal, this delicate flower is often linked with new beginnings and love.
Primula (Primula spp.)
Closely related to Primroses, Primulas bloom in early spring and come in a rainbow of colours. They represent renewal and are ideal for moist, shaded areas.
Ptilotus (Ptilotus exaltatus)
Known as the “Mulla Mulla,” this Australian native has fluffy pink flower spikes and symbolises resilience and adaptability. It’s well-suited to arid environments and tolerates poor soils.
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Known for its medicinal properties, the Purple Coneflower is a hardy perennial with bright pink-purple blooms. It symbolises strength and healing and is popular for both garden beds and natural medicine.
Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)
A tall perennial with spikes of purple flowers, Purple Loosestrife symbolises calm and peace. It grows well in moist soil and is ideal for adding height to flower beds.
Purple Poppy Mallow (Callirhoe involucrata)
A low-growing plant with magenta blooms, the Purple Poppy Mallow is ideal for rock gardens and tolerates arid environments. Symbolising love and cheer, it’s well-suited to dry, sunny spots.
Pussy Willow (Salix discolour)
While not a typical flowering plant, Pussy Willow is adored for its soft, silvery catkins that appear in early spring. Symbolising renewal, it’s a favourite in both floral arrangements and the garden.
From the classic Peony to the more exotic Passion Flower, these “P” flowers provide a range of options for gardeners looking to add colour, symbolism, or even historical touches to their flower beds. Whether you’re aiming for a classic English garden or a Mediterranean-inspired space, there’s a “P” flower that will fit perfectly.
Will you be adding some of these flowers that start with P to your garden designs?
RENO, Nev. — Conservationists and a Native American tribe are suing the U.S. to try to block a Nevada lithium mine they say will drive an endangered desert wildflower to extinction, disrupt groundwater flows and threaten cultural resources.
The Center for Biological Diversity promised the court battle a week ago when the U.S. Interior Department approved Ioneer Ltd.’s Rhyolite Ridge lithium-boron mine at the only place Tiehm’s buckwheat is known to exist in the world, near the California line halfway between Reno and Las Vegas.
It is the latest in a series of legal fights over projects President Joe Biden’s administration is pushing under his clean energy agenda intended to cut reliance on fossil fuels, in part by increasing the production of lithium to make electric vehicle batteries and solar panels.
“One cannot save the planet from climate change while simultaneously destroying biodiversity,” said Fermina Stevens, director of the Western Shoshone Defense Project, which joined the center in the lawsuit filed Thursday in federal court in Reno.
“The use of minerals, whether for EVs or solar panels, does not justify this disregard for Indigenous cultural areas and keystone environmental laws,” said John Hadder, director of the Great Basin Resource Watch, another co-plaintiff.
Rita Henderson, spokeswoman for Interior’s Bureau of Land Management in Reno, said Friday the agency had no immediate comment.
Ioneer Vice President Chad Yeftich said the Australia-based mining company intends to intervene on behalf of the U.S. and “vigorously defend” approval of the project, “which was based on its careful and thorough permitting process.”
“We are confident that the BLM will prevail,” Yeftich said. He added that he doesn’t expect the lawsuit will postpone plans to begin construction next year.
The lawsuit says the mine will harm sites sacred to the Western Shoshone people. That includes Cave Spring, a natural spring less than a mile (1.6 kilometers) away described as “a site of intergenerational transmission of cultural and spiritual knowledge.”
But it centers on alleged violations of the Endangered Species Act. It details the Fish and Wildlife Service’s departure from the dire picture it painted earlier of threats to the 6-inch-tall (15-centimeter-tall) wildflower with cream or yellow blooms bordering the open-pit mine Ioneer plans to dig three times as deep as the length of a football field.
The mine’s permit anticipates up to one-fifth of the nearly 1.5 square miles (3.6 square kilometers) the agency designated as critical habitat surrounding the plants — home to various pollinators important to their survival — would be lost for decades, some permanently.
When proposing protection of the 910 acres (368 hectares) of critical habitat, the service said “this unit is essential to the conservation and recovery of Tiehm’s buckwheat.” The agency formalized the designation when it listed the plant in December 2022, dismissing the alternative of less-stringent threatened status.
“We find that a threatened species status is not appropriate because the threats are severe and imminent, and Tiehm’s buckwheat is in danger of extinction now, as opposed to likely to become endangered in the future,” the agency concluded.
The lawsuit also discloses for the first time that the plant’s population, numbering fewer than 30,000 in the government’s latest estimates, has suffered additional losses since August that were not considered in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s biological opinion.
The damage is similar to what the bureau concluded was caused by rodents eating the plants in a 2020 incident that reduced the population as much as 60%, the lawsuit says.
The Fish and Wildlife Service said in its August biological opinion that while the project “will result in the long-term disturbance (approximately 23 years) of 146 acres (59 hectares) of the plant community … and the permanent loss of 45 acres (18 hectares), we do not expect the adverse effects to appreciably diminish the value of critical habitat as a whole.”
I tested the $330 Almond Cow Starter Set, which includes the milk maker and a few accessories, such as a rather cute branded glass milk jug, and a cleaning brush. The process of getting milk from your electric cow is simple: Add water to the vessel (between 5 and 6 cups), put the dry ingredients in the filter cup, twist it onto the bottom of the lid so the blender arm is in the materials, put the lid on, and press the button. The Almond Cow then grinds and mixes everything, a process that takes a few minutes. When it is done, the light on the top turns blue, and the milk is ready. The pulp is kept in the filter cup, which you remove and clean by hand. A collector cup is included, which fits over the filter cup to stop it dripping everywhere. The vessel also has to be rinsed out between uses.
I found the milk the Almond Cow produces was delicious. The high-speed blender with multiple blades meant the almonds were well blended, and little or no grainy plant material was left behind. The milk came out a little frothy, like a pint of albino Guinness. The froth quickly settled, though, and the 5 cups that the Almond Cow produces should be enough for a family breakfast or a day of coffee-making. After using the Almond Cow, there is a lot of cleaning: Clean the filter cup, rinse the top off (the milk gets splashed inside the vessel as it is blended), and clean the vessel itself. It’s no surprise that the starter pack I tested also included a bendy scrubbing brush that helps get the gunky plant pulp out of the filter.
I also found that with chunkier ingredients like almonds, you must push the filter cup up quite hard to ensure it is correctly locked into place when attaching it to the top. That’s because the blender blades sit right at the bottom of the cup, and a nut can get stuck below the blades, keeping the twist lock from engaging properly. If the cup works its way loose during blending, it makes a mess and could damage the blade. The easiest way to avoid this, I found, was to gently shake the cup while attaching it to the top to keep the materials moving. I also found that when you pour the milk out, the top of the Almond Cow has a habit of falling off as you tip the whole thing to get the final milk out of the vessel. There is no locking mechanism that holds the lid in place, only gravity.
Still, the Almond Cow does an effective job. It makes well-blended milk in decent quantities and does it pretty quickly. What it does not do, however, is handle the variety of other types of milk some machines can. You are limited to raw milk like almonds, cashews, and oats. —Richard Baguley
If you’re keen to make your garden look good in winter months, one of the simplest ways to do it is to plant up some winter hanging baskets and pots. This guide to the best plants for winter hanging baskets has a great range of plants to help you create a lovely winter display.
What plants are best for hanging baskets in winter?
In this post you’ll find lots of plants for winter hanging baskets that will provide you with flowers or beautiful foliage throughout winter. I’ve also included planting and care tips to help you get the best show from your winter hanging basket plants, plus some suggestions for great plant combinations. Hanging baskets can look great in old properties or can brighten up new homes.
Why you should grow winter hanging baskets
We might be using our gardens less at this time of year, but that doesn’t mean we have to ignore them completely. Growing plants in containers and outdoor hanging baskets is a simple way to keep your winter garden looking good, without having to spend lots of time out there.
As well as being low maintenance and ideal for beginner gardeners, winter hanging baskets are perfect if your outdoor space is limited. Even if you don’t have a garden, you can use hanging baskets to green up your doorway, patio or balcony. In a small garden, hanging baskets can significantly increase the amount of planting space you can access, allowing you to create a bigger display of plants without taking up any room at ground level.
Container gardening is relatively low cost too. You can even create your own hanging baskets by upcycling household objects. Old colanders work brilliantly, or you could add some drainage holes to the bottom of an old watering can.
A winter hanging basket is also great way to garden for wildlife. Adding winter hanging baskets to your garden will help you to carry on supporting your local species, providing a source of food and shelter for all manner of creatures at this tough time of year.
And of course, gardening on a small scale is perfect when it comes to gardening for kids. Their little hands can cope really well with hanging baskets – in fact in my experience, they’re actually better at planting them than the grown-ups!
Can hanging baskets survive winter?
Don’t assume that outdoor hanging baskets are only for the warmer months of the year.
While lots of hanging basket plants will struggle in cold weather, there are plenty of fantastic winter plants for hanging baskets to choose for colder months.
Just make sure you go for varieties that can cope with cold weather – these are usually referred to as ‘hardy’ plants. If you choose winter hardy container plants, you’re well on the way towards creating a winter hanging basket that looks great and is easy to take care of.
When should I plant a winter hanging basket?
The ideal time to plant a winter hanging basket is late autumn. Doing it at this point in the year will allow the plants to get established before winter arrives, and it will also mean they are ready to take over from your autumn plants at just the right time.
Having said that, don’t worry if it’s already winter and you haven’t done any planting. It’s fine to plant up winter hanging baskets at any point in winter, and also in early spring. Do bear in mind that the later you plant, the later your basket will be putting on a show.
A clever trick for hanging basket plants
When you choose your plants, remember this clever rule: Thriller, Filler, Spiller. This is a great way to create wow factor in hanging pots.
The Thriller plant is the star of the show, and is usually taller or bigger than the other plants. It works well to position it in the middle of the basket.
Filler plants fill up your container, providing a splash of colour and interest at a lower height than the Thriller plants.
Spiller plants are the trailing plants for hanging baskets. They spill over the sides, and soften the edges. Spiller plants are also brilliant for creating a bigger display and balancing out the height of the other plants in the basket.
How many plants should go in a hanging basket?
The number of plants you use in your hanging basket will be determined by the size of the basket itself. Bear in mind that each plant will place a demand on the compost, and if you really cram them in your plants won’t do as well. Also, each plant will grow – so make sure you leave a bit of space around each one.
The best plants for winter hanging baskets
Are you ready to get cracking with your plants for winter hanging baskets? Read on for my top picks for winter plants that will create a show stopping display in hanging baskets.
What can I put in my hanging baskets now?
This list includes winter flowers for hanging baskets, bulbs that are perfect for hanging baskets, foliage plants for winter baskets, and evergreen plants that will work brilliantly too. You’ll be spoilt for choice!
Flowering hanging basket plants for winter
There are lots of lovely winter flowering plants for hanging baskets. Here’s my selection of the best flowers for hanging baskets in winter.
Winter Pansies & Violas
If you’re looking for a cheery winter hanging basket plant, you can’t go wrong with pansies and violas. Garden centres and supermarkets are full of them, and there’s a good range of colours to choose from. Winter-flowering pansies and winter violas are usually very reasonably priced too, which makes them a great option for bulking out your hanging baskets.
Hardy Cyclamen
With their delicate and distinctive flowers, *cyclamen plants are a popular choice when it come to easy outdoor potted plants for winter.
Are cyclamen good for hanging baskets?
If you’re growing Cyclamen as outdoor plants in winter, it’s important to choose a hardy variety like Cyclamen coum or Cyclamen hederifolium. Some varieties can only be grown indoors at this time of year. If the plants are on display outside the shop, you’re probably on the right track.
Heather
I love growing heathers in winter hanging pots. Their upright shape is brilliant for adding height and structure to the arrangement, and the flower spikes bring lots of texture. Winter-flowering heathers such as Erica carnea also provide a good source of pollen and nectar, so they’re great for local wildlife too.
Bear in mind that heathers thrive in acidic soil, so you should ideally grow them in *ericaceous compost.
Primroses
Another candidate for low maintenance outdoor hanging plants for winter, primroses really deliver on colour and will make a bold statement in a winter hanging basket. The bright colours always go down a treat if you’re gardening with kids too.
If you’d prefer a more subtle effect, go for multiple primrose plants in the same colour to complement your other winter flowers.
Hellebores
We tend to think of hellebores as garden border plants, but they can also be planted in containers and larger hanging baskets. The flowers on hellebores naturally face downwards, so growing them in a basket at eye level is a lovely way to make the most of the blooms.
When it’s time to refresh your hanging basket, you can move your hellebore to a garden border. These perennial plants like partial shade, and look fantastic alongside woodland plants and bulbs.
Winter flowering bulbs for hanging baskets
Including some flower bulbs is a brilliant way to create a long-lasting display of hanging basket flowers. You can plant on top of them, which means you get a bigger impact without increasing the size of your basket. Bulbs are a pretty low-cost way to grow flowers too, so they’re ideal if you’re gardening on a budget.
These bulbs are all well-suited to growing as winter basket plants.
Snowdrops
A classic for a winter display, snowdrops will flower towards the end of winter and give your hanging basket a new lease of life. If you’re planting your basket in autumn you can use *snowdrop bulbs, but if you’re planting in winter it’s better to use snowdrop plants that have already started to grow.
Crocus
Another great candidate for even the smallest of hanging baskets. *Crocus bulbs are compact, so you can pack lots of them in, and the flowers are dainty too. Do spend some time checking out the range of varieties available; there are lots of different colours and heights to choose from, so it’s easy to find one that works well with your other plants.
Hyacinths
Pop a couple of *hyacinth bulbs in the bottom of your hanging basket, and in late winter you’ll have a gorgeous show of upright flowers. Hyacinths are heavily scented too, so every time you walk past your hanging basket you’ll be able to enjoy their fragrance – it’s definitely worth including them if your basket is next to the front door.
Always wear gloves when handling hyacinth bulbs, as they can irritate the skin.
Narcissus ‘Tete-a-Tete’
These miniature daffodils are perfect for hanging baskets. Their cheery, bright yellow blooms give a little taste of the spring to come when the rest of the garden hasn’t really got going.
You can ‘force’ dwarf narcissus bulbs to flower early indoors, so if you’ve got a few bulbs left over it’s worth potting them up for some indoor colour. My post on forcing bulbs shows you how to do it.
Iris reticulata
Another favourite of mine. Miniature iris bulbs are fantastic plants for winter pots and hanging baskets; I like to combine them with white flowers for a cool, modern look. Like dwarf narcissus, you can also force these bulbs for indoor blooms in winter.
Foliage plants: winter hanging basket ideas
A winter hanging basket definitely isn’t just about the flowers. Foliage plants play a key role in providing interest, texture and structure for your vibrant display.
Here are some suggestions for winter foliage plants that are perfect in hanging baskets.
Carex
Also known as ornamental sedge, Carex plants are ideal ornamental grasses for winter planters. They’re available in a range of colours, and work well in modern baskets. Use one as the centrepiece in your basket, and surround it with flowering and trailing plants for maximum impact.
Heuchera
If you’re looking for a foliage plant that makes an impact, go for a heuchera.
Their stunning leaves are gorgeous in their own right, but they also provide a fantastic backdrop for your flowering plants. You can buy *heucheras in a range of colours, including greens, golds, oranges and deep reds, so there’s bound to be one that’s perfect for your display.
Ornamental cabbage
Not to be confused with their edible relatives, ornamental cabbages are all about the looks. I think they work particularly well in a contemporary hanging basket, where they will add a quirky edge to the overall effect.
Hebe
Hebes are flowering plants, but in winter it’s the foliage we’re interested in. You need to choose a compact, hardy variety for a winter hanging basket; ‘Red Edge’ and ‘Sutherlandii’ are both good options.
Cineraria
When it comes to container gardening, I think of cineraria as the foliage equivalent of pansies and violas. It’s super-tough, widely available, and ideal for bulking out your hanging planters. The beautiful silver-white foliage gives a lovely depth and texture, and works well with darker-leaved plants such as cyclamen.
Calocephalus
If you love your silvery tones, calocephalus is another good choice. The stems are more delicate than cineraria, but it’s still pretty tough. I like to contrast it with deep purple winter flowers and foliage for stylish wow factor.
Evergreen winter plants for hanging baskets
You can use evergreen winter hanging basket plants as an easy way to keep things looking good for months. An evergreen will give you a starting point upon which to build your planting, and can work well as a backdrop to other plants or as a showstopper in it’s own right.
Evergreen varieties of fern are a brilliant choice for winter hanging plants. Their lacy leaves can spill over the sides of the basket, but will also grow upwards to add height and structure, and the strong green will provide a solid backdrop for flowering plants.
Good varieties of fern for a winter hanging basket include Hart’s Tongue fern (Asplenium scolopendrium), Soft Shield fern (Polystichum setiferum), and the beautiful frosted variety of Painted Lady fern (Athyrium niponicum f. metallicum).
Hardy sedums
If you love growing succulents, a hardy sedum is well-suited to a winter container. These hardy perennials are low-growing, so they will provide winter interest and foliage low down in your arrangement. Good hanging basket sedum varieties include ‘Redhead’, ‘Moss sedum’ and ‘Bluebubbles’.
Ajuga
Ajuga plants are used for ground cover in the garden, as they like to creep over the soil. This makes them useful for adding greenery to the surface of hanging baskets. They’re tough little plants, they cope well with being restricted in a container, and there’s a good range of foliage colours to choose from.
Skimmia japonica
Japanese Skimmia is a glossy evergreen with bright winter berries, so it will definitely pack a punch in a winter hanging basket. Go for a compact variety such as ‘Rubella’.
Wintergreen
This is a good alternative to skimmia if you’re planting a smaller hanging basket. Wintergreen (which is also known as Gaultheria procumbens or checkerberry) is a dwarf, low-growing evergreen with scarlet berries. As such it’s a great choice for Christmas hanging baskets.
The best evergreen trailing plants for winter hanging baskets
Trailing plants are an important part of a hanging basket display. Use them to hide a less-than-lovely container, provide foliage interest, and increase the impact of your plants. Here are my toptrailing plants for hanging baskets in winter.
English Ivy
You can’t have a winter container plants display without considering ivy. The fact that it trails makes it a perfect plant for hanging baskets in winter.
Variegated varieties of ivy look lovely with cyclamen plants, and varieties with all-green leaves work well with bright flowers. Ivy is also a really good source of food and shelter for a wide range of garden wildlife.
Vinca
Vinca is a vigorous scrambler, but if you plant it in a hanging basket you can keep it under control. It will cover the surface of the compost with glossy green leaves, and eventually trail over the sides too.
Hardy sedums
We’ve already talked about using hardy sedums in your winter containers, and there are some great trailing varieties too. ‘Greenhead’ and ‘Blue Spruce’ will happily ramble over the sides of a hanging basket.
Basic tools for planting hanging baskets
You don’t need much in the way of tools to grow plants in containers and hanging baskets for winter, but it’s worth getting hold of a few basics. Having these to hand will make it easier and quicker to plant and take care of your container.
A good *hand trowel is essential for adding compost to your hanging basket, and filling in around your plants. Make sure it’s a size that works well with your container; if your hanging baskets are small you might want to consider child-sized tools.
To protect your hands while gardening, you will need some *gardening gloves. The type you go for is very much a matter of personal preference, but do make sure that you can move your hands freely while wearing them.
I would also recommend a pair of *secateurs or *snips to help you keep your plants looking good. Snips work really well in small spaces, so they’re particularly handy for hanging baskets.
And of course, getting hold of a *watering can is definitely a good idea! I like to use a *mini watering can on hanging baskets; it’s easier to lift up high, and doesn’t flood them with water too quickly.
Choosing hanging baskets for winter flowering plants
When it comes to the actual hanging basket, you’ve got lots of options. Whatever you go for, make sure you consider these key features.
You hanging basket must have drainage holes, so that your plants don’t end up sitting in a puddle of water. If it has a plastic liner of some sort, you will need to make some holes in this to allow water to drain away.
If you go for a wire-style *metal hanging basket, you will also need to buy a liner. These are usually made of coir or card, check the size carefully so you can create a neat finish.
Make sure your hanging basket has a good, sturdy hanging hook, and is strong enough to hold everything. You might be surprised how heavy a basket can get once it’s full of compost and plants.
Choose a basket that is the right size for the number of plants you’d like to grow. Think about how big the plants will end up, not just how big they are when you first plant them!
What is the best compost for hanging baskets?
When you grow plants in container and hanging baskets, it’s really important to use the best compost for pots.
A plant grown in a pot or basket will eventually use up all the nutrients in the compost. And because we tend to pack plants into hanging baskets, that can happen pretty quickly.
To give your plants the best chance of thriving, go for a good quality *peat-free compost. General purpose compost is fine for most plants that are grown in pots and baskets, but some plants do better in a more specific type of compost. The plant label will have this information, so give it a quick read before finalising your selection.
You can also buy compost that is specifically designed for winter plants in pots and hanging baskets. This usually contains slow-release fertiliser and water-retaining crystals to help container plants stay healthy. It’s perfect if you’re a bit unsure when it comes to plant care, or just don’t have lots of time for gardening.
So you’ve bought your plants, found the perfect hanging container, and are tooled up and ready to go. Here’s how to make a winter hanging basket.
If you’re planting a wire hanging basket, put your liner in first. Trim it to size if necessary.
If your hanging basket has a plastic liner, use a pair of scissors or a knife to poke some drainage holes in the plastic.
Lots of hanging baskets have curved bases, and this can make it tricky to keep them steady while adding your plants. To make things easier and stop it rolling around, you can put your hanging basket on an empty plant pot.
If you’re adding water-retaining granules or slow-release fertiliser to your compost, mix it in before filling your basket.
If you’re planting bulbs in your hanging basket, put a shallow layer of compost in the base, then place your bulbs on the surface.
Add compost to your container, until it’s almost full.
Take each plant out of its pot by sliding your fingers around the plant’s base, tipping the whole thing over, and removing the pot with your other hand.
Arrange your plants in the basket. Start with a central plant that will give the display structure, then add more plants around it. You can move them around until you’ve got a good combination – just remember to put any trailing plants close to the edge so they can cascade over.
Once your layout is looking good, add in some more compost to fill in any gaps around your plants.
Water your winter hanging basket thoroughly, then it’s ready to hang up!
How do you make a hanging basket look fuller?
One of the key elements to making a hanging basket look fuller is patience. You need to give those plants some time to grow and fill out!
You can also make sure you feed and water your plants regularly. This will help them to grow well and produce lots of flowers.
Another clever trick for making wire hanging baskets look fuller is to add plants around the sides as well as on the top of the compost. To do this, you simply make a small hole in the liner, then pop your plant in.
And of course, tucking a few spring bulbs into the pot before adding your plants will also help to create a gorgeous, long-lasting show of winter flowers.
Care tips for winter hanging baskets
Once you’ve planted your winter hanging basket, the vast majority of the hard work is done. However, there are a few things you need to stay on top of if you want your plants to do well.
Right plant, right place
Putting your hanging baskets in the right position for the plants inside them is probably the most important thing you can do to keep them happy. In the gardening world this is usually referred to as ‘right plant, right place’.
Put simply, growing a plant in a place that provides the conditions it likes will help it to grow strong, be less vulnerable to pests, and in need of less maintenance.
All plants have a set of conditions that they prefer to grow in. For example, it could be full sun, partial shade, or full shade, somewhere that is really sheltered, a place with good drainage, or soggy soil. Provide your plants with their favourite conditions, and they will be happy. Do the opposite, and they will struggle.
Take a look at the care label on your plants, this usually has information on the best conditions for them. You can also find this information from an online search or a plant identification app.
Once you know what conditions your plants like, you can find the best place to put your hanging basket. The other way to get it right is to work out where you want to put your hanging basket, then buy plants that like the conditions provided in that location.
Feeding winter hanging basket plants
Nutrients are limited in a hanging basket or a container, because there’s a finite amount of compost in there. As a result, plants will eventually use up all the nutrients, and once that happens they will struggle to thrive.
To prevent this becoming an issue, you should feed your winter hanging basket plants regularly with general-purpose plant food.
You’ve got a few options when it comes to the format of your plant food. A *concentrated liquid feed has to be diluted before use, or you could go for a *ready-to-pour liquid feed that you simply add to your container. You can also buy plant food in *granule form, this needs to be added to the compost before planting. Ready-to-pour feed is the easiest and lowest-effort option, but it’s not the cheapest.
If you’re keen to keep costs down, or you want to garden sustainably, you can make your own plant food from comfrey or nettle leaves. There’s a good guide to doing this here:
Watering winter hanging baskets
Generally, plants that are grown in pots or hanging baskets will dry out more quickly than plants that are grown in the ground. The compost can only retain so much water, and evaporation can be quicker because the sides of the container are exposed to warmer temperatures.
Both of these causes of dry containers are less of an issue in winter, but you still need to check your hanging baskets regularly. If the surface of the soil feels dry, you probably need to water your plants.
When watering a hanging basket, try to add the water as gradually as possible. This will reduce the amount of water that simply pours out of the bottom, and help to saturate the soil more effectively.
You could also try putting a plant saucer in the bottom of the basket before planting. This will create a small reservoir and help to stop water leaking out of the bottom.
How to keep winter hanging baskets looking good
Having put all that time and effort into creating your hanging baskets for winter, you no doubt want to keep them flowering for as long as possible. Deadheading is a great way to do this.
To deadhead a plant, you need to remove any dead or drooping flowers, plus seed heads that have formed. This will stop the plant setting seed, and stimulate it to produce more flowers instead.
Deadheading is one of those quick gardening jobs that you can tackle in a couple of minutes. Simply pinch off the flower heads with your fingers, or use *snips to remove them. It’s well worth getting into the habit of doing this on a regular basis; as well as helping to boost the number of flowers, it will also keep your hanging baskets looking smart.
Do I need to protect winter hanging basket plants?
If you choose hardy plants for pots and hanging baskets, you shouldn’t need to protect them from cold weather.
Good drainage is important for container plants in winter, as most plants really hate having their roots in cold or frozen water. This isn’t a major problem for hanging baskets, as being off the ground allows excess water to drain away easily.
Do keep an eye on your hanging baskets if the weather is very windy. You might need to temporarily move them to prevent them from being swung around and generally battered!
If you have any tender plants in hanging baskets, it’s worth moving them to a sheltered spot in winter. Take a look at my post on protecting plants from frost and cold weather for tips on how to look after your tender plants.
And there you have it: a comprehensive guide to the best plants for hanging baskets in winter, and how to look after them. I hope you have fun creating some amazing winter displays!
More container gardening resources
I’ve got lots of other great container gardening ideas and tips here on the blog.
LAKE FOREST, Calif. — To cheers and applause from kids wearing spacesuits and star-studded T-shirts, a tree was planted in California that is out of this world.
The so-called “Moon Tree” — grown with seeds that were flown around the moon — was wheeled out in a wagon accompanied by several students carrying shovels to help dig its new home at Santiago STEAM Magnet Elementary School in Lake Forest.
The school, which has roughly 500 students in grades K-12, was among those selected to receive a seedling for a giant sequoia that was grown with seeds flown on NASA’s Artemis I Mission in 2022.
“It’s kind of crazy,” said Emily Aguesse, a sixth grader who participated in Monday’s ceremony welcoming the tree. “I’ve always wanted to go to space but this motivates it even more.”
It’s the second time that NASA has flown seeds into space and brought them back for planting. An astronaut for the Apollo 14 mission in 1971 who was a former U.S. Forest Service smokejumper carried seeds that later were grown into the first generation of Moon Trees, which were planted in states spanning from Alabama to Washington.
While many of those seedlings were distributed to national monuments, this latest batch has been given to schools and museums to promote science and conservation education and help bring space down to Earth, said Paul Propster, chief story architect for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
“It’s just kind of cool and fun to connect the next generation of explorers,” Propster said.
It isn’t known whether space travel has an effect on how plants grow and scientists continue to study the topic, he said.
In 2022, NASA and the Forest Service flew nearly 2,000 seeds from five species of trees aboard the unmanned Orion spacecraft, which went into lunar orbit and spent about four weeks traveling in space.
Once back on Earth, the seeds were grown into young sycamores, sweetgums, Douglas firs, loblolly pines and giant sequoias that could be shared with the public through an application process.
Nearly 150 seedlings were distributed earlier in the year, and another batch is expected this fall, NASA officials said.
Santiago — a science and technology-focused magnet school — planted its tree in a space-themed outdoor garden decorated with colorful stones painted by students. The school’s parent and teacher association will have community volunteers care for the Moon Tree, which is expected to grow in girth and stature for decades amid a grove of eucalyptus that shades the campus in Southern California.
Colorful ropes were laid in circles on the ground to show students how big the tree could grow 50 years from now — and 500.
“This tree will grow with the kids,” said Liz Gibson, who has three children at the school and chaired the NASA Moon Tree ceremony.
I’ve always known in theory that if you plant spring-flowering bulbs (such as tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and alliums) you can fill your garden with successive waves of color for three months while you wait for summer. But in my garden, after the spring flowers on the azaleas and rhododendrons fade? Nothing—until June. I eye my neighbors’ more colorful gardens with envy and initiate late-night talks with my husband about why this is the year we should hire a landscape designer.
This fall I plan to be proactive and plant bulbs—which I know is a thing you do in autumn because one year I went to our local nursery and asked for alliums. (I’m particularly enamored with the extraterrestrial look of alliums, with their large pompom heads and tall, slender stalks.) But it was during the height of summer, and the nice lady who worked at the nursery had to break it to me that I’d have to wait until September or later for the bulbs to be available for purchase. Like many other bulbs, they are planted in the fall and bloom in the spring, she told me, with not the slightest bit of disdain.
A job requirement for working at nurseries must be an uncanny ability to refrain from rolling one’s eyes when asked idiotic questions. Thankfully, my interview with Barbara Pierson, nursery manager of White Flower Farm, in which I asked beginner questions about spring-flowering bulbs, was conducted over email. (Thank you, Barbara, for not inserting any eye-roll emojis.) Here’s what I learned:
Q: What are bulbs, anyway?
Above: Tulip bulbs ready for the planting. Photograph by Meredith Swinehart.
A: A bulb is “essentially a storage organ” for plants, says Barbara; all the food they need is concentrated in a compact, onion-shaped mass. “True bulbs have scales, which are fleshy and become leaves after the bulb begins to grow.” They’re often lumped together with corms, rhizomes, and tubers, because they all grow underground and produce plants, but they are different. Corms don’t have scales; rhizomes grow horizontally and can produce more plants; and tubers have eyes (like potatoes) that can grow into sprouts or roots. (See Everything You Need to Know About Bulbs and Tubers for a roundup of some of our favorite springtime bulb and tuber flowers.)
Q: Which bulbs are the easiest to grow?
Above: Barbara recommends ‘Globemaster’ alliums. “They are easy to grow and, most times, will flower the first year after planting in the fall,” she says. “Plant them four to five inches below the soil line in a border close to other perennials so the foliage is hidden when it dies down during and after flowering. Remembering to let bulb foliage die down naturally is the key to having them come back year after year.” Photograph by Justine Hand.
Aloe is an unsung hero of the houseplant world. It’s easy to care for, has a ton of uses, and is easily propagated. Simply remove offshoots or “pups” from the mother aloe plant, replant them, and watch them soon begin to grow. Here’s a more detailed guide to propagating aloe plants and incorporating all that new gel into your well-being routine.
BOSTON — The question of whether a 2-year-old beaver named Nibi can stay with the rescuers she has known since she was a baby or must be released into the wild was resolved Thursday when the Massachusetts governor stepped in to protect Nibi.
The state issued a permit to Newhouse Wildlife Rescue for Nibi to remain at the rehabilitation facility and serve as an educational animal.
“Nibi has captured the hearts of many of our residents, mine included,” Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey said Thursday. “We’re excited to share that we have issued a permit for Nibi to remain in Newhouse’s care, continuing to educate the public about this important species.”
Nibi’s fate had made it all the way to the state courts before Healey stepped in.
A judge on Tuesday had said that Nibi would be allowed to stay in her home at the rescue center in Chelmsford, located northwest of Boston. A hearing had been set for Friday in a case filed by the rescuers against MassWildlife, the state’s division of fisheries and wildlife, to stop the release.
Nibi’s rescuers at Newhouse Wildlife Rescue said on their Facebook page that they were “beyond grateful” for Healey’s decision.
Nibi has been a hit on the rescue group’s social media since she was a baby, and posts about her impending release garnered thousands of comments.
An online petition to save Nibi from being released into the wild has received over 25,000 signatures, lawmakers have weighed in, and earlier this week Healey pledged to make sure Nibi is protected.
“We all care about what is best for the beaver known as Nibi and all wild animals throughout our state,” Mark Tisa, director of MassWildlife, said in a statement Thursday. “We share the public’s passion for wildlife and invite everyone to learn more about beavers and their important place in our environment.”
Jane Newhouse, the rescue group’s founder and president, has said that after Nibi was found on the side of the road, they tried to reunite her with nearby beavers who could have been her parents but were unsuccessful. After that, attempts to get her to bond with other beavers also didn’t work.
“It’s very difficult to consider releasing her when she only seems to like people and seems to have no interest in being wild or bonding with any of her own species,” she said.
Nibi has a large enclosure with a pool at the rescue operation, and will also wander in its yard and rehabilitation space, Newhouse said. “She pretty much has full run of the place. Everybody on my team is in love with her,” she said.
Newhouse said she had asked MassWildlife if she could get a permit for Nibi to become an educational beaver, allowing her to take the beaver to schools, libraries and town halls. Newhouse said she feared a release would mean certain death for her beloved “diva” beaver, who doesn’t know how to live in the wild.
“It doesn’t give her much time… to figure out how to build a lodge for the first time, how to build dams for the first time, how to store all of her food before winter sets in,” she said.
Newhouse said that beavers usually leave their parents between the ages of 2 and 3, so it’s possible that over the next year Nibi will show more interest in wanting to be in the wild. But unless that happens, she wants to keep her safe.
Beavers are common and abundant throughout Massachusetts. A keystone species, beavers play an important role in fostering biodiversity of ecosystems, according to state officials.
By damming rivers and streams, and forming shallow ponds, beavers are vital for creating healthy wetlands that support a tremendous diversity of plants, bugs, and wildlife, and store floodwaters during storms.
They are also North America’s largest native rodents, weighing between 35 and 80 pounds (16 and 36 kilograms) and reaching 2–3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) in length as adults.
Adult beavers have very few predators and can live for 20 years or more.
In almost all cases, it’s best to leave wildlife alone, officials said, so they don’t come to rely on humans for food and shelter.
For inspiration, look to the list of healthy proteins, carbs, and fats shared above. You also can’t go wrong with a smoothie or smoothie bowl. They’re a fantastic way to get plenty of calories and nutrition.
In a high-powered blender, add liquid (e.g. water, milk, kefir, etc.) berries, banana, greens (e.g., kale, spinach), flaxseed, chia seeds, frozen cauliflower, a tablespoon of nut butter, a few scoops of grass-fed whey protein, and you’re good to go.
When taking home a new tropical pitcher plant, you can also place it in an enclosed environment like an empty fish tank or large terrarium to get it acclimated to your space. This will better replicate the humid conditions it probably grew accustomed to in the nursery: Put your plant in a closed space to start, to trap moisture, and then gradually pull back the lid off the container over the course of a few days. Plants don’t like drastic changes, Gravine explains, but “as the plant gets a feel for the light and the conditions, you can get it out into the house a little more.”
The best time to repot a houseplant is in spring, when its root system is actively growing and can quickly establish itself in its new home. But a fall repotting could be warranted if a plant has spent the summer outgrowing its container outdoors.
Most species we consider houseplants are tropical plants that grow in the wild in their native habitat. Although they can also thrive in the home under the right conditions, a summer vacation outdoors provides exposure to increased sunlight and fresh air, which usually spurs abundant new growth.
One of my spider plants, for instance, nearly doubled in size and produced about a dozen “pups,” or baby plants, on the deck last year. By September, the African native’s roots were growing out of its pot’s drainage holes, indicating the need for more space.
Finding a mysterious mess of spilled soil is another telltale sign that the plant needs a larger home. As roots grow to fill the pot, soil simply gets pushed out onto the table or floor.
Sometimes, the only indication of displaced soil is that the container feels lighter than expected when you pick it up, even after watering.
Any plant that has grown above the soil line surely has also grown beneath it, as well. But if you’re in doubt about whether repotting is necessary, slip the plant out of its container to see if its roots are crowded, which can restrict access to water and nutrients. Worse, if roots are “girdled,” or growing around themselves in a circle rather than outward into the soil, they may strangle themselves to death.
Free crowded or girdled roots by scraping them with a kitchen fork, snipping them in a few spots with garden pruners or gently teasing them apart with your fingers to create broken tips that can begin growing outward into the soil. . Then remove as much of the soil as possible.
A bigger pot. But not too much bigger
The first rule of repotting plants lies in pot selection. Don’t be tempted to repot a small plant into a large container in the hopes you won’t have to repeat the task for a few years; you might end up killing the plant because the excess soil needed to fill the larger pot will hold more water than the roots can take in, and that can lead to root rot. Instead, opt for a pot just 1 or 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Use the right potting mix. Purchase a lightweight, soil-less potting mix specially formulated for indoor plants, or make your own by combining equal parts of compost, vermiculite (or perlite, if planting succulents or cacti) and coco coir (a sustainable alternative to peat moss that does not alter the medium’s pH ).
Add enough of the mixture to the bottom of the new container to ensure the plant will sit at the same depth as it was when growing in its old pot. Then, place the plant atop the mound and add as much potting mix as necessary to fill in spaces around the plant, firming the soil with your fingers to eliminate air pockets.
Water slowly to allow full absorption, stopping when water begins to emerge from the pot’s drainage hole, and empty water that collects in the pot’s saucer.
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Jessica Damiano writes weekly gardening columns for the AP and publishes the award-winning Weekly Dirt Newsletter. You can sign up here for weekly gardening tips and advice.
Since childhood, Loveness Bhitoni has collected fruit from the gigantic baobab trees surrounding her homestead in Zimbabwe to add variety to the family’s staple corn and millet diet. The 50-year-old Bhitoni never saw them as a source of cash, until now.
Climate change-induced droughts have decimated her crops. Meanwhile, the world has a growing appetite for the fruit of the drought-resistant baobab as a natural health food.
Bhitoni wakes before dawn to go foraging for baobab fruit, sometimes walking barefoot though hot, thorny landscapes with the risk of wildlife attacks. She gathers sacks of the hard-shelled fruit from the ancient trees and sells them on to industrial food processors or individual buyers from the city.
The baobab trade, which took root in her area in 2018, would previously supplement things like children’s school fees and clothing for locals of the small town of Kotwa in northeastern Zimbabwe. Now, it’s a matter of survival following the latest devastating drought in southern Africa, worsened by the El Niño weather phenomenon.
“We are only able to buy corn and salt,” Bhitoni said after a long day’s harvest. “Cooking oil is a luxury because the money is simply not enough. Sometimes I spend a month without buying a bar of soap. I can’t even talk of school fees or children’s clothes.”
The global market for baobab products has spiked, turning rural African areas with an abundance of the trees into source markets. The trees, known for surviving even under severe conditions like drought or fire, need more than 20 years to start producing fruit and aren’t cultivated but foraged.
Tens of thousands of rural people like Bhitoni have emerged to feed the need. The African Baobab Alliance, with members across the continent’s baobab producing countries, projects that more than 1 million rural African women could reap economic benefits from the fruit, which remains fresh for long periods because of its thick shell.
The alliance’s members train locals on food safety. They also encourage people to collect the fruit, which can grow to 8 inches (20 centimeters) wide and 21 inches (53 centimeters) long, from the ground rather than the hazardous work of climbing the enormous, thick-trunked trees. Many, especially men, still do, however.
Native to the African continent, the baobab is known as the “tree of life” for its resilience and is found from South Africa to Kenya to Sudan and Senegal. Zimbabwe has about 5 million of the trees, according to Zimtrade, a government export agency.
But the baobab’s health benefits long went unnoticed elsewhere.
Gus Le Breton, a pioneer of the industry, remembers the early days.
“Baobab did not develop into a globally traded and known superfood by accident,” said Le Breton, recalling years of regulatory, safety and toxicology testing to convince authorities in the European Union and United States to approve it.
“It was ridiculous because the baobab fruit has been consumed in Africa safely for thousands and thousands of years,” said Le Breton, an ethnobotanist specializing in African plants used for food and medicine.
Studies have shown that the baobab fruit has several health benefits as an antioxidant, and a source of vitamin C and essential minerals such as zinc, potassium and magnesium.
The U.S. legalized the import of baobab powder as a food and beverage ingredient in 2009, a year after the EU. But getting foreign taste buds to accept the sharp, tart-like taste took repeated trips to Western and Asian countries.
“No one had ever heard of it, they didn’t know how to pronounce its name. It took us a long time,” Le Breton said. The tree is pronounced BAY-uh-bab.
Together with China, the U.S. and Europe now account for baobab powder’s biggest markets. The Dutch government’s Center for the Promotion of Imports says the global market could reach $10 billion by 2027. Le Breton says his association projects a 200% growth in global demand between 2025 and 2030, and is also looking at increasing consumption among Africa’s increasingly health-conscious urbanites.
Companies such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi have opened product lines promoting baobab ingredients. In Europe, the powder is hyped by some as having “real star qualities” and is used to flavor beverages, cereals, yogurt, snack bars and other items.
A packet of a kilogram (2.2 pound) of baobab powder sells for around 27 euros (about $30) in Germany. In the United Kingdom, a 100-milliliter (3.38-ounce) bottle of baobab beauty oil can fetch 25 pounds (about $33).
The growing industry is on display at a processing plant in Zimbabwe, where baobab pulp is bagged separately from the seeds. Each bag has a tag tracing it to the harvester who sold it. Outside the factory, the hard shells are turned into biochar, an ash given to farmers for free to make organic compost.
Harvesters like Bhitoni say they can only dream of affording the commercial products the fruit becomes. She earns 17 cents for every kilogram of the fruit and she can spend up to eight hours a day walking through the sunbaked savanna. She has exhausted the trees nearby.
“The fruit is in demand, but the trees did not produce much this year, so sometimes I return without filling up a single sack,” Bhitoni said. “I need five sacks to get enough money to buy a 10-kilogram (22-pound) packet of cornmeal.”
Some individual buyers who feed a growing market for the powder in Zimbabwe’s urban areas prey on residents’ drought-induced hunger, offering cornmeal in exchange for seven 20-liter (around 4-gallon) buckets of cracked fruit, she said.
“People have no choice because they have nothing,” said Kingstone Shero, the local councilor. “The buyers are imposing prices on us and we don’t have the capacity to resist because of hunger.”
Le Breton sees better prices ahead as the market expands.
“I think that the market has grown significantly, (but) I don’t think it has grown exponentially. It’s been fairly steady growth,” he said. “I believe at some point that it will increase in value as well. And at that point, then I think that the harvesters will really start to be earning some serious income from the harvesting and sale of this really truly remarkable fruit.”.
Zimtrade, the government export agency, has lamented the low prices paid to baobab pickers and says it’s looking at partnering with rural women to set up processing plants.
The difficult situation is likely to continue due to a lack of negotiating power by fruit pickers, some of them children, said Prosper Chitambara, a development economist based in Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare.
On a recent day, Bhitoni walked from one baobab tree to the next. She carefully examined each fruit before leaving the smaller ones for wild animals such as baboons and elephants to eat — an age-old tradition.
“It is tough work, but the buyers don’t even understand this when we ask them to increase prices,” she said.
The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Gates Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
I saw this chickpea and Swiss chard salad recipe years ago in a cookbook from the River Cafe in London and knew from the ingredient list alone that it would ring all my bells. I’ve since tampered with it plenty, making it spicier, trying it with fresh shell beans, adding smoked paprika, but the simple genius of the method remains.
Welcome to an exploration of flowers that start with the letter “C”. This list covers a fabulous range of blooms, from the classic Carnation to the striking Calla Lily.
List of flowers that start with C
A list of flowers that begin with C is fantastic inspiration for baby names, plant studies, and floral designs – and of course you can simply enjoy the gorgeous flower images too!
Each of the 55 flowers beginning with C on this list has an image, common names, key facts, and associated symbolism. If you’d like more flower symbolism you can also check out our birth month flowers guide.
Join us as we explore the diverse and captivating world of flower names starting with C, and find inspiration for your next floral project.
Cactus
Flowering cacti are known for their striking flowers that can come in a wide range of colours, including red, yellow, pink, white, and orange. Native to the Americas, particularly arid regions like the southwestern United States, Mexico, and parts of South America, cacti have adapted to harsh desert environments.
Cactus plants are often symbols of endurance, strength, and resilience due to their ability to thrive in difficult conditions. In some cultures, their flowers also represent warmth and protection, with the rare bloom being a sign of beauty emerging from adversity.
Calendula Officinalis
Calendula officinalis, known as pot marigold or English marigold, is a bright, cheerful plant with flowers ranging in shades of yellow, orange, and gold. Native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region, calendula has long been cultivated for its medicinal and ornamental uses.
Calendula is often associated with healing, protection, and renewal, and its flowers are used in traditional herbal remedies for their anti-inflammatory properties. Symbolically, calendula represents warmth and gratitude, and in some cultures, it’s linked to the sun and vitality due to its radiant blooms.
Calibrachoa
Calibrachoa, or million bells, is a small flowering plant that produces an abundance of bell-shaped blooms in shades of purple, pink, red, yellow, blue, and white. Native to South America, Calibrachoa is a popular choice for hanging baskets and containers due to its trailing habit and long-lasting flowers.
Calibrachoa is associated with joy and abundance, as its prolific blooms create a sense of overflowing beauty and vitality. It’s also a symbol of celebration and cheerfulness.
California Poppy
The California poppy (Eschscholzia californica), also known as the golden poppy or cup of gold, is a beautiful wildflower with delicate, cup-shaped blooms in shades of orange, yellow, and occasionally red or cream. Native to the western United States, it thrives in dry, sunny environments.
The California poppy is the state flower of California and is often associated with themes of peace, rest, and remembrance. Its bright, cheerful blossoms also symbolise resilience and prosperity, representing the beauty of nature flourishing even in tough conditions.
Calla Lily
The Calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica), or arum lily, is a graceful plant with trumpet-shaped flowers in white, pink, yellow, purple, and orange. Native to southern Africa, calla lilies are often grown in gardens and used in floral arrangements.
The Calla lily is associated with purity, beauty, and faithfulness, especially in its white form, which is commonly used in weddings and funerals. It can also represent rebirth and resurrection, making it a popular choice for religious and ceremonial events.
Camellia
The camellia (Camellia japonica), also known as rose of winter, is a striking evergreen shrub known for its large, glossy leaves and beautiful flowers, which are available in shades of white, pink, red, and occasionally yellow. Native to East Asia, particularly Japan, China, and Korea, camellias are highly valued for their ornamental beauty.
Camellias are associated with love, admiration, and perfection, with different colours conveying different meanings. White is for purity, pink for longing, and red for deep love. In Japan, camellias are known as “Tsubaki” and are often used in traditional tea ceremonies, representing grace and refinement.
Campanula latifolia
Campanula latifolia, or giant bellflower, is a striking plant with tall spikes of bell-shaped flowers that are typically violet-blue, though they can also appear in white or pale lavender. Native to Europe and parts of Western Asia, this hardy perennial thrives in woodlands and meadows.
Bellflowers like Campanula are associated with gratitude, humility, and constancy. Their blooms are often seen as symbols of communication or messages from the divine, and they are sometimes used in floral arrangements to represent hope and enduring love.
Canaigre Dock
Canaigre dock (Rumex hymenosepalus), also known as wild rhubarb or desert rhubarb, is a perennial herb with small, greenish-yellow to reddish flowers that grow in clusters. Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, it thrives in arid desert regions. The plant is traditionally valued for its tannin-rich roots, which were used by Native Americans for dyeing leather and textiles.
Symbolically, Canaigre dock represents resilience and adaptability, as it flourishes in harsh environments. It also carries connotations of resourcefulness, owing to its historical significance in both food and material use in indigenous cultures.
Candytuft
Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens) is a charming evergreen plant known for its clusters of small, delicate flowers, typically white, though pink and purple varieties also exist. Native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region, it’s often used in rock gardens or as ground cover. Candytuft blooms in spring, creating a carpet of bright, cheerful flowers.
Candytuft represents sweetness and innocence, with its pure white blossoms evoking feelings of peace and serenity. It is also associated with purity and is sometimes used to symbolise new beginnings.
Canna Lily
Canna lily (Canna indica), often simply referred to as canna, is a striking plant known for its vibrant, tropical flowers that come in shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink. Native to the tropical regions of the Americas, canna lilies thrive in warm climates and are popular in garden landscapes for their bold, eye-catching blooms and lush foliage.
Canna lilies represent strength, beauty, and passion. These flamboyant flowers that start with C are often associated with the energy and vitality of the sun, embodying enthusiasm and the celebration of life.
Canterbury Bells
Canterbury bells (Campanula medium), also named bellflower or Campanula, features large, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in blue, purple, pink, and white. Native to southern Europe, this biennial plant is cherished for its tall, elegant spikes of flowers that add a touch of charm to gardens.
Canterbury bells represent gratitude, humility, and constancy. Their bell-like blooms are often associated with the concept of communication and messages, reflecting the plant’s role in folklore and tradition as a symbol of clear and honest expression.
Cape Primrose
Cape primrose (Streptocarpus) is a stunning flowering plant. Also known as Streptocarpus or African violet, it offers a range of flower colours including purple, blue, pink, and white. Native to South Africa, this plant is celebrated for its delicate, trumpet-shaped blooms and attractive, often fuzzy foliage.
Symbolically, Cape primroses represents perseverance and the ability to thrive in challenging conditions, reflecting its adaptability and resilience in both its native habitat and as a beloved houseplant. These cheerful flowers that start with C also symbolise beauty and grace.
Cardinal
Cardinal flowers (Lobelia cardinalis) are known for their vivid red blooms that resemble the robes of a cardinal, hence their name. Native to North America, these perennial flowering plants are cherished for their bold colour and ability to attract hummingbirds.
Cardinal flowers represent passion and the vitality of life. Their vibrant red petals also embody courage and strength, often serving as a symbol of resilience and the enduring power of nature in the face of adversity.
Carex
Carex (common name sedge) is a diverse genus of grass-like plants that produces inconspicuous flowers, typically in shades of green, brown, or yellow. Native to a number of regions across the globe, including wetlands, meadows, and woodlands, Carex species are valued for their ecological importance in stabilising soil and supporting wildlife.
Sedge plants represent adaptability and resilience due to their ability to thrive in varied and sometimes challenging environments. Their subtle, understated flowers and grass-like foliage also evoke a sense of calm and stability.
Carnation
Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) is a popular flowering plant known for its ruffled, fragrant blooms in shades of pink, red, white, yellow, and purple. Often referred to as pinks due to the fringed edges of its petals, carnations are native to the Mediterranean region.
Carnations are associated with a number of meanings depending on their colour. Pink carnations represent a mother’s love, red carnations symbolise deep love and admiration, while white carnations convey purity, love, and remembrance. Their versatile beauty and rich symbolism make them a timeless choice for both joyous and solemn occasions.
Carthamus
Carthamus (safflower or false saffron) has spiky flowers that can be red, orange, yellow, or even purple. Native to regions of Africa and the Middle East, this plant can be cultivated for its seeds, which are used in cooking and traditional medicine, as well as for its colourful blooms.
Carthamus flowers represent resilience and transformation. The vivid hues of safflower blossoms also symbolise beauty and vitality, making them a striking addition to gardens and floral arrangements.
Caspia
Caspia, or sea lavender, has delicate clusters of tiny, star-shaped flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white. Native to coastal regions of Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as parts of the Middle East, Caspia is valued for its ornamental qualities and its ability to thrive in salty, sandy soils.
Sea lavender represents enduring love and timeless beauty, reflecting its resilience in challenging environments. Its ethereal, airy blossoms evoke a sense of calm and tranquility.
Castor Bean
Castor bean (Ricinus communis) is a striking plant known for its unique, spiky flowers that are typically greenish-yellow or reddish and often clustered together. Commonly referred to as castor oil plant, it is native to the tropical regions of Africa and the Mediterranean, though it is now widely cultivated in warm climates around the world.
Symbolically, these flowers that start with C can represent protection and resilience due to the plant’s robust nature and its historical use in traditional medicine and as a source of castor oil. However, it is important to note that the plant is also highly toxic if ingested, adding a layer of caution to its symbolism of strength and vitality.
Catmint (Nepeta cataria)
Catmint, often known as catnip, is a hardy perennial valued for its aromatic, green foliage and charming spikes of tubular flowers that can range in colour from pale blue to lavender and white. Native to Europe and Asia, catmint thrives in a variety of garden settings and is particularly noted for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Catmint represents relaxation and tranquility, partly due to its calming effect on cats and its historical use in herbal medicine for its soothing properties. Its delicate, fragrant blooms and pleasant scent evoke a sense of peace and well-being, making it a delightful addition to any garden.
Celandine
Celandine (Chelidonium majus), also called greater celandine or swallowwort, features bright yellow flowers that bloom in clusters and are complemented by its deeply lobed, green leaves. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, celandine is often found in woodlands and shaded areas.
Celandine is associated with healing and renewal, reflecting its historical use in traditional medicine for treating various ailments. Its cheerful yellow flowers also represent optimism and new beginnings.
Celosia
Celosia is a flowering plant known for its striking, flame-like blooms in a range of colours, including red, orange, pink, yellow, and purple. Commonly referred to as cockscomb, it is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Celosia’s dramatic, feathery flowers are often used in both fresh and dried floral arrangements, symbolising boldness and resilience. Their vivid, fiery appearance evokes feelings of warmth and enthusiasm, and can add a burst of colour and energy to gardens and floral displays.
Centaurea cyanus
Centaurea cyanus, also known as cornflower or bachelor’s button, is renowned for its vivid blue blooms, though it can also appear in shades of pink, white, and purple. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, this annual wildflower traditionally grows in cereal fields and meadows.
The cornflower represents hope and endurance, and it is often associated with the idea of the unfulfilled lover, given its historical use in romantic folklore. Its bright, captivating flowers are also seen as a symbol of joy and simplicity.
Chamomile
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) features small, daisy-like flowers with white petals and a central yellow disc. Native to Europe and western Asia, this herbaceous plant is widely cultivated for its soothing properties. Chamomile is renowned for its use in herbal tea, which is valued for its calming effects and digestive benefits.
Chamomile represents tranquility, relaxation, and peace. Its cheerful blooms also embody simplicity and healing, making it a beloved plant in both gardens and wellness practices.
China Aster (Callistephus chinensis)
China aster is a striking flowering plant known for its large, daisy-like blooms in a wide array of colours, including pink, purple, blue, red, and white. Commonly referred to as annual aster, it is native to China and has been widely cultivated around the world for its showy, long-lasting flowers.
China asters represent elegance and patience, as their intricate petals and enduring blooms evoke a sense of grace and persistence. They are often used in floral arrangements to convey admiration and to celebrate the beauty of nature’s diversity.
Chinese Lantern
Chinese lantern (Physalis alkekengi), also called winter cherry or bladder cherry, is notable for its unique, lantern-shaped calyx that enclose small, edible fruit. Native to Asia and southeastern Europe, this plant is often grown for its ornamental appeal, particularly in dried floral arrangements.
Chinese lantern plants represent prosperity and protection. Its paper-like husks also signify the transition from one season to another, making it a symbol of change and endurance.
Chives
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) are a versatile herb known for their slender, green leaves and spherical clusters of small, delicate purple or pink flowers. They are native to regions of Europe and Asia. Chives are widely used in culinary dishes for their mild onion flavor and are also valued for their health benefits.
Symbolically, chives represent protection and vitality, reflecting their traditional use in folklore to ward off negative influences and promote well-being. Their charming flowers also embody renewal and the simple joys of nature.
Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum is a popular flowering plant celebrated for its diverse blooms, which come in a broad range of colours including white, yellow, pink, red, and purple. Often referred to as mums or chrysanths, they are native to Asia and northeastern Europe.
Chrysanthemums represent longevity, fidelity, and happiness. In many cultures, especially in Japan and China, they are associated with celebration. The flower’s bold colours and intricate forms also convey a sense of joy and renewal.
Cineraria
Cineraria (Pericallis x hybrida) is admired for its bright, daisy-like flowers that are available in blue, purple, pink, red, and white. Native to the Canary Islands, this plant is commonly grown as an ornamental in cooler climates.
Cineraria represents enduring love and friendship. The plant’s cheerful colours and long-lasting flowers also convey a sense of joy and appreciation, making it a favourite for gift-giving and decorative arrangements.
Cinquefoil
Cinquefoil (Potentilla) is a charming plant known for its five-petaled flowers, which can be found in yellow, white, red, and pink. Commonly referred to as five-fingered grass or five-finger, it is native to various regions including Europe, Asia, and North America.
Cinquefoil represents resilience and enduring love. Its delicate flowers also signify grace and the beauty of simplicity.
Clarkia
Clarkia, also called farewell-to-spring or godetia, is admired for its cup-shaped blossoms that can be pink, purple, red, white, or even bi-colour. Native to western North America, Clarkia is often grown as an annual or biennial in gardens for its attractive, long-lasting blooms.
Clarkia represents beauty and fleeting moments, reflecting its role as a spring and early summer flower that brings a burst of colour and charm before the hotter months. Its delicate petals and diverse hues also evoke a sense of joy and renewal.
Clary Sage
Clary sage (Salvia sclarea), often simply called clary, is a distinctive herb known for its tall spikes of pale purple, pink, or white flowers and its aromatic, sage-like leaves. Native to the Mediterranean region, clary sage has been cultivated for centuries for its medicinal purposes and aromatic properties.
Clary sage represents clarity and insight, reflecting its historical use in herbal medicine for enhancing mental clarity and relieving stress. The plant’s elegant flowers and soothing fragrance also symbolise peace and tranquility.
Clematis
Clematis is a versatile climbing plant known for its stunning, large flowers that come in a wide array of colours. It is native to various regions around the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America. Clematis is prized for its ability to cover trellises and arbors with lush, colourful blooms.
Clematis represents beauty, ingenuity, and exploration, reflecting its association with growth and reaching new heights.
Clianthus
Clianthus, also known as kaka beak or parrot’s beak, is renowned for its striking, red or orange, beak-shaped flowers that resemble the curved bill of a parrot. Native to New Zealand, this unique plant is admired for its vivid, unusual blooms and its ability to attract native birds.
Symbolically, Clianthus represents vibrancy and uniqueness, reflecting its rare and eye-catching appearance. The plant’s bold flowers are also associated with exotic beauty and the wild, untamed aspects of nature.
Clover
Clover (Trifolium) is known for its distinct, three-lobed leaves and clusters of small, rounded flowers that can be white, pink, red, or purple. Commonly referred to as trefoil or shamrock (especially in the case of Trifolium repens, the white clover), it is native to Europe, Asia, and North America.
Clover is often associated with good luck and prosperity, particularly the four-leaf variety, which is believed to bring fortune and protection. The plant’s widespread use as a cover crop and its role in supporting pollinators further highlight its significance in agriculture and natural ecosystems, symbolizing abundance and harmony with nature.
Cockscomb
Cockscomb (Celosia argentea), also called celosia or woolflower, is celebrated for its distinctive, flame-like clusters of blooms.
Cockscomb represents boldness and confidence, reflecting its striking and unique floral structure. Its eye-catching flowers also convey a sense of energy and exuberance, making it a favourite choice for adding a burst of colour and liveliness to the garden.
Coltsfoot
Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) is a distinctive perennial plant known for its bright yellow, dandelion-like flowers that appear before its large, heart-shaped leaves. Commonly referred to as tussilago or horsetail (due to the shape of its leaves), it is native to Europe and Asia and has also become widespread in North America.
Coltsfoot represents healing and resilience, reflecting its historical use in traditional medicine for respiratory ailments and coughs. The plant’s early-blooming flowers and robust growth in challenging conditions embody themes of renewal and strength, making it a symbol of perseverance and recovery.
Columbine
Columbine (Aquilegia) is a graceful perennial known for its distinctive, spurred flowers in shades of blue, red, pink, white, and purple. Commonly referred to as granny’s bonnet or eagle’s claw, it is native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
Columbine represents grace and the beauty of nature. The plant is also associated with love and fidelity, often appearing in gardens as a symbol of enduring affection and the gentle, transformative power of nature.
Comfrey
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a robust herb known for its clusters of bell-shaped flowers, which typically range in colour from blue to purple, though white and pink varieties also exist. Also referred to as knitbone, it is native to Europe and parts of Asia and has been widely cultivated for its medicinal properties and use as a garden mulch.
Symbolically, comfrey represents healing and restoration, reflecting its historical use in traditional medicine for treating wounds, bruises, and joint pain. Its resilience and ability to thrive in diverse conditions also symbolise endurance and the restorative power of nature.
Coneflower
Coneflower (Echinacea) is a popular garden plant known for its large, daisy-like flowers with prominent, spiky centres and petals that typically range in colour from pink and purple to white and orange. Echinacea is native to North America, where it thrives in prairies and open woodlands.
Coneflowers represent strength and resilience, reflecting their historical use in herbal medicine for boosting the immune system and treating various ailments.
Convallaria
Convallaria (Convallaria majalis), or lily of the valley, is a delicate perennial famous for its small, fragrant, bell-shaped white flowers that hang in clusters from arching stems. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, it thrives in shaded woodlands and moist, well-drained soil.
Lily of the valley represents purity, humility, and the return of happiness, with its sweet fragrance and graceful blooms evoking a sense of innocence and renewal. The plant is often used in bouquets and floral arrangements to convey a message of affection and joy, making it a popular choice for weddings and other celebratory occasions.
Coral Bells
Coral bells (Heuchera), also known as alum root, is a perennial plants that is usually admired for its striking foliage, but it also produces delicate, flowers that can range in colour from coral and pink to red and white. Native to North America, coral bells are valued for their ornamental appeal and adaptability to various garden conditions.
Coral bells represent charm and elegance. The plant’s ability to add colour and texture to garden beds and containers also signifies beauty and resilience, making it a favourite choice for both decorative and functional landscaping.
Coreopsis
Coreopsis, commonly known as tickseed, is celebrated for its cheerful, daisy-like flowers that come in a number of colours including yellow, orange, red, and pink. Native to North America, coreopsis is widely appreciated for its long-lasting blooms and ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Coreopsis represents joy and endurance. These flowers that start with C also embody positivity and the beauty of summer.
Cosmos
Cosmos is known for its daisy-like blooms in shades of pink, red, white, and orange. Commonly referred to as Mexican aster, it is native to Mexico and has become a beloved addition to gardens worldwide.
Cosmos represent harmony and peace, reflecting their delicate, airy flowers that evoke a sense of tranquility and balance. Their easy-to-grow nature and long-lasting blooms also symbolise joy and optimism.
Cotoneaster
Cotoneaster is a versatile shrub known for its small, star-shaped flowers that typically appear in shades of white or pink, followed by red or orange berries in the fall. It is native to regions of Europe, Asia, and the Himalayas.
Symbolically, cotoneaster represents resilience and abundance, reflecting its ability to thrive in various conditions and its prolific fruiting. The plant’s attractive foliage and bright berries also symbolise prosperity and the changing seasons.
Cowberry
Cowberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea), or lingonberry, is a hardy evergreen shrub renowned for its small, bell-shaped white or pink flowers that give way to bright red, tart berries. Native to the boreal forests and Arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, cowberry is valued for its nutritious fruit and its role in traditional dishes and preserves.
Cowberry represents resilience and endurance, reflecting its ability to thrive in harsh climates and its importance in sustaining both people and wildlife. The plant’s bright berries and evergreen foliage also signify prosperity and the enduring cycles of nature.
Cranesbill Geranium
Cranesbill geranium, often simply known as cranesbill, is a charming perennial valued for its delicate, five-petaled flowers that can be found in shades of pink, blue, purple, and white. Native to regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, cranesbill geraniums are appreciated for their versatility and long-lasting blooms.
Cranesbill represents steadfastness and resilience. The graceful flowers and attractive foliage also convey a sense of tranquility and endurance.
Creeping Jenny
Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) is a popular ground cover plant known for its trailing stems and bright, cup-shaped yellow flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. Also referred to as moneywort, it is native to Europe and western Asia.
Creeping jenny represents abundance and prosperity, reflecting its name “moneywort,”. The plant’s lush, green foliage that turns golden-yellow in autumn also signifies renewal and the cycles of life.
Creeping Lettuce
Creeping lettuce (Lactuca serriola), also known as wild lettuce or prickly lettuce, is an intriguing plant recognised for its rosette of toothed, spiny leaves and tall, slender stems topped with clusters of small, yellow flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region and parts of Asia, creeping lettuce has spread widely as a hardy weed in many areas.
Creeping lettuce represents adaptability and resilience, reflecting its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. The plant’s distinctive, prickly foliage and delicate yellow blooms also embody a sense of natural persistence and the beauty of wild, untamed growth.
Crocosmia
Crocosmia, often known as montbretia or falling stars, has lance-shaped foliage and vivid, tubular flowers that typically bloom in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Native to South Africa, crocosmia can add a burst of colour to gardens and floral arrangements, especially in late summer and early autumn.
Crocosmia represents transformation and vitality, reflecting its dynamic appearance and ability to brighten garden landscapes. Its fiery hues and graceful flower spikes also convey a sense of passion and energy.
Crocus
Crocus is an early spring flower known for its delicate, cup-shaped flowers that come in a spectrum of colours, including purple, yellow, white, and striped varieties. This plant grows from bulbs and is native to Europe, the Mediterranean region, and parts of Asia.
Crocuses represent renewal and hope, as they are among the first flowers to emerge after winter, signalling the arrival of spring. Their early appearance embodies themes of rebirth and new beginnings, making them a cherished symbol of the changing seasons and the promise of warmer days ahead.
Crown Imperial
Crown imperial (Fritillaria imperialis) is a striking perennial known for its regal, crown-like clusters of large, bell-shaped flowers in shades of orange, red, and yellow. Commonly referred to as imperial fritillary or Kaiser’s crown, it is native to parts of the Middle East, including Iran and Turkey.
Crown imperial represents dignity and grandeur, reflecting its majestic appearance and towering presence in the garden. The plant is also associated with royalty and celebration.
Cuckoo Flower
Cuckoo flower (Cardamine pratensis), also called lady’s smock or milkmaid, is a charming perennial with delicate, four-petaled flowers that typically range in colour from pale pink to white. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, cuckoo flower thrives in meadows, damp grasslands, and along riverbanks.
Cuckoo flowers represent new beginnings and the arrival of spring, as its blooms often appear around the same time as the first cuckoo birds return. The plant’s soft, elegant flowers and its association with the changing seasons also evoke a sense of renewal and the gentle beauty of nature’s cycles.
Cyclamen
Cyclamen is a captivating perennial known for its distinctive, heart-shaped leaves and elegantly curved flowers in pink, white, red, and purple. Commonly referred to as sowbread, it is native to the Mediterranean region, including parts of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Symbolically, cyclamen represents love and resignation, reflecting its delicate, fleeting blooms.
Cymbidium
Cymbidium (Boat orchid) is an elegant orchid renowned for its large, showy flowers that come in a variety of colours including white, yellow, pink, green, and red. Commonly called cymbidium orchids, they are native to the cooler regions of Asia, including China, India, and Southeast Asia.
Symbolically, cymbidiums represent luxury and strength, reflecting their sophisticated appearance and enduring beauty. The flowers also convey messages of love and refined elegance.
From the timeless Camellia to the popular Chrysanthemum, each bloom on our list of fabulous flowers starting with C adds its own unique touch of charm and colour. Are any of these flowers that start with C making it onto your garden wish list?
