Common name:Pencil Tree, Pencilbush, Milkbush
Botanical name:Euphorbia tirucalli
In frost free areas, Euphorbia can become a 30' tree but in colder areas, it is often knocked back by frost. It can be single or multiple trunked. It has green cylindrical branches that are about the diameter of a pencil. Leaves are not usually present. Some people are allergic to the sap. It is tolerant of salt, full sun, part shade and quite drought resistant. It is a great accent plant for a container. This form has light green branches if in full sun.
Common name:Kaffir Lily, Clivia
Botanical name:Clivia miniata
A clumping evergreen bulb, this Kafir Lily produces luxuriant leaves and stalks of deep orange to red orange flowers in late winter and spring. It tolerates deep shade and, after establishment, drought. The plant requires frost protection. It performs well in containers. -Monterey Bay Nursery
Designer: Stephanie Blanc
Photographer: GardenSoft
Maintain a two to four inch layer of mulch on the soil surface to reduce weeds, infiltrate rain water, and reduce compaction.
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.
Attract, or buy beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pest outbreaks in your garden.