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How to Take Care of a Malva Sylvestris Plant. Malva sylvestris is a member of the Malvaceae family and is sometimes known as tree mallow or rose mallow. Considered an annual in zones 4 to 8, this plant does self-seed, so to some it might be considered a perennial or biennial. Malva is a bushy plant with flowers that resemble hollyhocks, and blooms from late summer into fall. Colors include pink, purple, deep red and white.
Read MoreCommon Spiders of NEPA. Northeast Pennsylvania features many of the more than 3,000 species of spiders, or arachnids, found in the United States. All spiders have fangs to inject venom. However, most spiders are too small to be of concern to people. Two species, the southern black widow and the brown recluse spider, though rare, may be found in Pennsylvania and can be dangerous.
Read MoreHow to Grow & Propagate Russian Sage. If you are looking for an easy-care, showy perennial that thrives in even the poorest of soil, look no further than the Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia). This woody shrub-like plant is a member of the mint family. Tiny, violet-blue flowers cover silvery branches that create an airy look in the garden. Russian sage can grow from 3 to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9 and grows best in full sun. It's also easy to propagate Russian sage so you can plant it elsewhere in your garden.
Read MoreCare of Gentiana Scabra Flowers. Gentiana scabra, or Japanese gentian, is a low-growing, evergreen perennial flower that is hardy in zones 3 to 8. The flowers are bell-shaped and a rich, sapphire blue. These plants are excellent choices for rock gardens, along shady garden paths or in woodland settings. They prefer mostly shady areas, but will tolerate dappled light if planted underneath leafy trees.
Read MoreHow to Care for a Silver Mound Plant. The silver mound plant (Artemisia schmidtiana) is also called wormwood or mugwort. It is a low-growing perennial, hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 7, with silvery gray foliage. Growing 1 foot high and just as wide, this airy plant is perfect for rock gardens or in front of taller plants. It prefers well-drained soil and is drought tolerant.
Read MoreHow to Care for an Indigo Plant. Indigo plants (Baptisia) are often called False Indigo or Wild Indigo. They are perennial plants that are hardy in zones 3 to 9 and grow from 3 to 6 feet tall and just as wide. Indigo are well-placed in the back of a border or garden or in a wild, naturalized setting. There are two varieties: Baptisia australis, which has pea-like blue flowers; and Baptisia alba, which has white flowers. Place these plants in a relatively permanent location as transplanting is not advised, due to the abundant taproots. Flowers bloom in early summer, and the dried seed pods are attractive in arrangements. Historically, the indigo plant was used to make blue dye.
Read MoreThe History of the Gazing Ball. The gazing ball, that shiny, reflective colorful globe perched atop a stand, has been used in gardens both in Europe and the United States as a decorative garden ornament. However, this lovely glass ball is also full of lore and legend.
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