Plant guides · A to Z
Plants starting with S.
127 guides
- Sabal Palm Sabal palmetto
The Cabbage Palm is a sturdy, iconic fan palm native to the southeastern United States. It's highly adaptable and...
- Sacred Datura Datura wrightii
This striking plant is known for its large, trumpet shaped flowers that bloom at night. It is a hardy perennial that...
- Sacred Lotus Nelumbo nucifera
The sacred lotus is a stunning aquatic perennial that grows from thick rhizomes in shallow water. It features large,...
- Saffron Crocus Crocus sativus
The saffron crocus is a charming bulbous perennial famous for producing the world's most expensive spice. It blooms...
- Safou Dacryodes edulis
The safou is a tropical fruit tree native to central and western Africa. It produces oily, edible fruits that are...
- Sage Salvia officinalis
Sage is a hardy, fragrant perennial herb that is a staple in many kitchen gardens. It features beautiful, textured...
- Sago Palm Cycas revoluta
The Sago Palm is a beautiful, ancient plant that looks like a miniature palm tree. It is actually a cycad and grows...
- Saguaro Carnegiea gigantea
The Saguaro is an iconic symbol of the American Southwest, known for its massive, tree like stature. These slow...
- Salad Burnet Poterium sanguisorba
Salad burnet is a charming, low growing perennial herb that stays green through most of the winter. It has a mild...
- Salsify Tragopogon porrifolius
Salsify is a cool season biennial often grown for its edible, parsnip like taproot. It produces lovely purple...
- Salvia
Salvias are a diverse group of plants known for their tubular flowers and aromatic foliage. They are wonderful...
- San Pedro cactus Echinopsis pachanoi
The San Pedro cactus is a fast growing columnar species native to the Andes mountains. It is well known for its...
- Sandalwood Santalum album
Sandalwood is a beautiful, slow growing tree prized for its fragrant heartwood and essential oils. It is a...
- Sandbox tree Hura crepitans
The sandbox tree is a massive tropical evergreen known for its explosive seed pods. It is a striking specimen that...
- Sandbur Cenchrus echinatus
The southern sandbur is a hardy annual grass known for its prickly, burr like seed heads. It thrives in sandy,...
- Sansevieria Dracaena trifasciata
This is a tough, architectural plant that thrives on neglect. It features stiff, sword shaped leaves that grow...
- Saskatoon serviceberry Amelanchier alnifolia
The Saskatoon serviceberry is a lovely shrub that brings interest to your garden throughout the seasons. It produces...
- Sassafras Sassafras albidum
The sassafras is a lovely native tree known for its unique, mitten shaped leaves and vibrant fall colors. It grows...
- Saucer magnolia Magnolia soulangeana
The saucer magnolia is a stunning deciduous tree known for its massive, cup shaped flowers that bloom before the...
- Sausage tree Kigelia africana
The sausage tree is a striking tropical specimen famous for its massive, sausage shaped fruits that hang from long...
- Saw Banksia Banksia serrata
The Saw Banksia is a striking Australian native known for its unique, cone shaped flower spikes. It thrives in well...
- Saw greenbrier Smilax bona-nox
This hardy, native vine is known for its tough, woody stems and persistent foliage. It often climbs over other...
- Scarlet pimpernel Lysimachia arvensis
The scarlet pimpernel is a charming, low growing plant often found in fields and gardens. It is well known for its...
- Scotch broom Cytisus scoparius
Scotch broom is a hardy, deciduous shrub known for its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in late spring. It is quite...
- Scots Pine Pinus sylvestris
The Scots Pine is a rugged evergreen conifer known for its iconic orange red bark and twisted needles. It is a hardy...
- Screw pine Pandanus tectorius
The screw pine is a striking tropical plant known for its unique, spiral leaf arrangement and prop roots. It thrives...
- Sea almond Terminalia catappa
The sea almond is a large tropical tree known for its wide, horizontal branches and impressive, leathery leaves. It...
- Sea Buckthorn Hippophae rhamnoides
Sea buckthorn is a hardy, deciduous shrub known for its bright orange, nutrient dense berries. It thrives in coastal...
- Sea grape Coccoloba uvifera
The sea grape is a beautiful, salt tolerant plant that thrives in coastal environments. It features large, leathery...
- Sea hibiscus Talipariti tiliaceum
The sea hibiscus is a beautiful, salt tolerant shrub or small tree often found along tropical coastlines. It...
- Sea Holly Eryngium planum
Sea holly is a striking perennial that brings a unique, architectural look to any garden. It features metallic blue,...
- Sea lavender Limonium vulgare
Sea lavender is a charming coastal plant known for its delicate, papery flowers that bloom in late summer. It...
- Sea Lavender Limonium perezii
Sea lavender is a charming, salt tolerant plant that brings a lovely splash of purple to coastal gardens. It...
- Sea purslane Sesuvium portulacastrum
Sea purslane is a hardy succulent groundcover that thrives in coastal environments. It is well known for its ability...
- Sedum
Stonecrops are incredibly resilient succulents that thrive in sunny spots with well draining soil. They come in many...
- Self-heal Prunella vulgaris
Self-heal is a hardy, low-growing perennial that is often found in meadows and along paths. It is well known for its...
- Sensitive fern Onoclea sensibilis
The sensitive fern is a lovely, prehistoric looking plant that thrives in damp, shady spots. It gets its name...
- Sensitive plant Mimosa pudica
The sensitive plant is a fascinating tropical species known for its leaves that fold inward when touched. It is a...
- Sesame Sesamum indicum
Sesame is a lovely annual plant known for its edible seeds and beautiful, bell shaped flowers. It thrives in warm...
- Shepherd's purse Capsella bursa-pastoris
Shepherd's purse is a common, hardy annual weed that is often found growing in disturbed soil. It is known for its...
- Shining Crane's-bill Geranium lucidum
The shining crane's bill is a charming annual that often pops up in woodland areas and rocky spots. It is well known...
- Shrimp plant Justicia brandegeeana
The shrimp plant is a charming tropical shrub known for its unique, drooping flower spikes that look just like...
- Siberian iris Iris sibirica
The Siberian iris is a hardy perennial that brings elegant, grass-like foliage and delicate blooms to your garden....
- Siberian Larch Larix sibirica
The Siberian Larch is a hardy deciduous conifer that drops its needles every autumn. It is well known for its...
- Siberian Pea Shrub Caragana arborescens
The Siberian Pea Shrub is a tough, deciduous plant known for its ability to thrive in harsh, cold climates. It...
- Siberian Squill Othocallis siberica
Siberian Squill is a charming, early spring bloomer that naturalizes beautifully in lawns and woodland gardens. It...
- Siberian tea Bergenia crassifolia
Bergenia is a tough, evergreen perennial that brings lovely texture to shady spots. It is famous for its large,...
- Siebold's Hosta Hosta sieboldiana
Siebold's Hosta is a classic shade garden favorite known for its large, textured, blue-green foliage. It creates a...
- Silk floss tree Ceiba speciosa
The silk floss tree is a stunning tropical specimen known for its dramatic, thorny trunk and vibrant pink flowers....
- Silver Birch Betula pendula
The Silver Birch is a beautiful, graceful tree known for its striking white, peeling bark and delicate, drooping...
- Silver Philodendron Scindapsus pictus
This lovely vining plant is famous for its heart shaped leaves splashed with shimmering silver spots. It is a...
- Silver tree Leucadendron argenteum
The Silver tree is a striking evergreen known for its beautiful, silvery, hair-covered leaves. It is native to the...
- Silver tree fern Alsophila dealbata
The silver tree fern is a stunning native of New Zealand known for its iconic fronds with a striking silvery...
- Silver vase bromeliad Aechmea fasciata
The silver vase bromeliad is a stunning tropical plant known for its striking, silvery banded foliage and long...
- Silverberry Elaeagnus commutata
Silverberry is a hardy deciduous shrub known for its striking silvery foliage and fragrant yellow flowers. It...
- Silverleaf nightshade Solanum elaeagnifolium
This hardy perennial is known for its striking silvery foliage and bright purple flowers. It is a tough plant that...
- Silverweed Argentina anserina
Silverweed is a charming, low growing perennial that spreads through runners. It is native to temperate regions and...
- Singapore graveyard flower Plumeria obtusa
The Singapore graveyard flower is a beautiful, fragrant shrub known for its waxy, white blossoms and deep green...
- Skunk cabbage Symplocarpus foetidus
This fascinating plant is one of the first to emerge in early spring, often pushing through frozen ground. It gets...
- Slender deutzia Deutzia gracilis
This charming deciduous shrub is a springtime favorite that produces a profusion of delicate white flowers. It stays...
- Smooth Blue Aster Symphyotrichum laeve
The smooth blue aster is a lovely perennial that brings a splash of color to late summer and autumn gardens. It...
- Snake fruit Salacca zalacca
The snake fruit is a unique palm species native to Indonesia that produces delicious, sweet, and acidic fruit. It...
- Snake Gourd Trichosanthes cucumerina
The snake gourd is a fast growing tropical vine prized for its long, slender, edible fruits. It thrives in warm...
- Snakes head fritillary Fritillaria meleagris
This charming bulbous perennial is famous for its unique, bell shaped flowers with a distinct checkered pattern. It...
- Snapdragon Antirrhinum majus
Snapdragons are charming, cool-season flowers that bring vibrant color to gardens. They are known for their unique,...
- Snowberry Symphoricarpos albus
The snowberry is a lovely deciduous shrub known for its clusters of bright white, waxy berries that persist into...
- Snowberry Symphoricarpos albus var. albus
Snowberry is a charming deciduous shrub known for its clusters of waxy, white berries that persist into winter. It...
- Snowbush Breynia disticha
The snowbush is a lovely tropical shrub known for its striking variegated foliage that looks like it has been dusted...
- Snowdrop Galanthus nivalis
Snowdrops are charming little bulbs that often pop up while snow is still on the ground. They bring a welcome splash...
- Sodom Apple Calotropis procera
The Sodom Apple is a hardy shrub known for its unique, inflated fruit and milky sap. It thrives in arid environments...
- Soft shield fern Polystichum setiferum
The soft shield fern is a lovely, evergreen choice for adding texture to shady spots in your garden. It features...
- Soft Tree Fern Dicksonia antarctica
The soft tree fern is a stunning, slow growing plant that brings a prehistoric feel to any garden. It features a...
- Sorghum Sorghum bicolor
Sorghum is a sturdy, grass-like crop that thrives in warm climates. It is widely grown for its grain and forage...
- Soursop Annona muricata
The soursop is a tropical evergreen tree prized for its large, spiky, heart shaped fruits. It thrives in warm, humid...
- Spanish moss Tillandsia usneoides
Spanish moss is a fascinating air plant that hangs gracefully from tree branches in humid climates. It does not have...
- Spearmint Mentha spicata
Spearmint is a hardy, fragrant herb that spreads quickly through underground runners. It is a wonderful addition to...
- Spider Plant Chlorophytum comosum var. variegatum
The spider plant is a classic houseplant known for its arching, grass-like foliage and trailing plantlets. It is...
- Spider Plant Chlorophytum comosum
The spider plant is a classic houseplant that is loved for its arching, grass like leaves and trailing babies. It is...
- Spinach Spinacia oleracea
Spinach is a cool weather leafy green that loves the crisp air of spring and fall. It grows quickly and provides a...
- Spindle Euonymus europaeus
The spindle is a lovely deciduous shrub known for its brilliant autumn foliage and unique, colorful fruit. It adds a...
- Spineless Yucca Yucca filamentosa
This hardy, architectural plant is a fantastic choice for adding a bold, structural element to your garden. It...
- Spineless Yucca Yucca elephantipes
The Spineless Yucca is a fantastic, architectural plant that brings a touch of the desert indoors. It is loved for...
- spiny sowthistle Sonchus asper
The spiny sowthistle is a hardy annual herb often found in disturbed soils and gardens. It produces yellow,...
- Spiral aloe Aloe polyphylla
The spiral aloe is a stunning succulent known for its perfectly symmetrical, spiraling leaf pattern. It is native to...
- Split rock Pleiospilos nelii
This fascinating succulent looks just like a pair of stones nestled in the soil. It's a desert native that stores...
- Spotted dead-nettle Lamium maculatum
This charming groundcover is a favorite for brightening up shady spots in the garden. It features lovely heart...
- Spotted spurge Chamaesyce maculata
Spotted spurge is a low growing, mat forming annual that often appears as a weed in gardens and pavement cracks. It...
- Spring Cabbage Brassica oleracea var. capitata
Spring cabbage is a hardy biennial vegetable grown for its tender, leafy heads. It is typically sown in late summer...
- Staghorn fern Platycerium
Staghorn ferns are fascinating epiphytes that grow on trees in their native tropical habitats. They feature two...
- Staghorn fern Platycerium bifurcatum
The staghorn fern is a unique epiphyte that grows on trees in its native habitat. It features two distinct types of...
- Staghorn sumac Rhus typhina
The staghorn sumac is a hardy, deciduous shrub or small tree known for its striking fall color. It gets its name...
- Star apple Chrysophyllum cainito
The star apple is a beautiful tropical tree known for its glossy leaves and unique fruit. It produces round fruit...
- Star jasmine Trachelospermum jasminoides
Star jasmine is a lovely, fragrant vine that brings a touch of elegance to any garden. It is famous for its sweet...
- Star of Bethlehem Ornithogalum thyrsoides
The Star of Bethlehem is a charming bulbous perennial that produces lovely, star shaped white flowers. It thrives in...
- Starfruit Averrhoa carambola
Starfruit is a beautiful tropical tree that produces unique, star shaped yellow fruit. It loves warm, humid spots...
- Sticky monkeyflower Diplacus aurantiacus
The sticky monkeyflower is a lovely shrub native to western North America. It produces vibrant, trumpet shaped...
- Stinging Nettle Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle is a hardy perennial known for its medicinal uses and distinct stinging hairs. It thrives in...
- Stinkhorn Phallaceae
Stinkhorns are fascinating fungi known for their unique, often phallic shapes and pungent odor. They emerge rapidly...
- Straggler daisy Calyptocarpus vialis
This tough little groundcover is a fantastic native choice for filling in bare spots in your landscape. It handles...
- Strangler fig Ficus aurea
The strangler fig starts its life as an epiphyte growing on another tree. It eventually sends roots down to the...
- Strawberry Fragaria × ananassa
Strawberries are delicious, low growing perennials that produce sweet fruit in the garden. They thrive in sunny...
- Strawberry tree Arbutus unedo
The strawberry tree is a lovely evergreen shrub that brings year round interest to your garden. It produces charming...
- String of Buttons Crassula perforata
The String of Buttons is a charming succulent that looks like it is stacked on a string. It is a fantastic choice...
- String of pearls Curio rowleyanus
String of pearls is a charming succulent known for its trailing stems covered in bead like leaves. It looks...
- Striped wintergreen Chimaphila maculata
Striped wintergreen is a charming woodland perennial that stays green all year round. It thrives in the dappled...
- Sugar apple Annona squamosa
The sugar apple is a lovely tropical fruit tree known for its sweet, creamy custard like flesh. It thrives in warm...
- Sugarcane Saccharum officinarum
Sugarcane is a tall, perennial grass known for its thick, fibrous stalks that store sucrose. It thrives in tropical...
- Summer Savory Satureja hortensis
Summer savory is a delightful annual herb that brings a peppery, thyme like flavor to your kitchen. It grows quickly...
- Sunflower Helianthus annuus
Sunflowers are cheerful, fast growing annuals that bring a touch of summer to any garden. They are famous for their...
- Swamp milkweed Asclepias incarnata
Swamp milkweed is a lovely native perennial that brings a splash of color to wet garden spots. It is a favorite for...
- Swedish ivy Plectranthus australis
Swedish ivy is a charming, trailing plant that is perfect for hanging baskets. It is not actually an ivy, but a...
- Sweet Alyssum Lobularia maritima
Sweet Alyssum is a charming, low growing plant that produces masses of tiny, honey scented flowers. It is a favorite...
- Sweet box Sarcococca confusa
Sweet box is a fantastic evergreen shrub that brings a lovely fragrance to the garden in the middle of winter. It...
- Sweet Cherry Prunus avium
The sweet cherry is a beautiful deciduous tree that produces delicious fruit in the summer. It thrives in temperate...
- Sweet olive Osmanthus fragrans
Sweet olive is a lovely evergreen shrub known for its tiny, incredibly fragrant flowers. It makes a wonderful...
- Sweet Pea Lathyrus odoratus
Sweet peas are beloved for their stunning, fragrant blooms that bring a touch of classic cottage garden charm to any...
- Sweet pepperbush Clethra alnifolia
Sweet pepperbush is a lovely deciduous shrub that brings a sweet, spicy fragrance to the garden in midsummer. It...
- Sweet Potato Ipomoea batatas
Sweet potatoes are vigorous, trailing vines that produce edible tubers underground. They love warm weather and...
- Sweet Rocket Hesperis matronalis
Sweet Rocket is a lovely biennial or short lived perennial known for its fragrant, four petaled flowers. It brings a...
- Sweet vernal grass Anthoxanthum odoratum
Sweet vernal grass is a charming, fragrant perennial known for its sweet scent of coumarin when dried. It is a...
- Sweet William Dianthus barbatus
Sweet William is a charming, old fashioned favorite that brings lovely clusters of fragrant flowers to the garden....
- Sweetgum Liquidambar styraciflua
The sweetgum is a stately deciduous tree known for its star shaped leaves that turn brilliant colors in autumn. It...
- Swiss cheese plant Monstera deliciosa
The Swiss cheese plant is a popular tropical climber known for its iconic, fenestrated leaves. It brings a bold,...
- Swiss Cheese Plant Monstera adansonii adansonii
This charming vining plant is famous for the unique holes in its leaves. It is a fantastic choice if you want a...
- Switchgrass Panicum virgatum
Switchgrass is a sturdy, North American prairie native that brings wonderful texture to any garden. It is a clump...
- Sword Lily Gladiolus
Gladiolus are striking perennials known for their tall, sword shaped leaves and impressive spikes of funnel shaped...
- Sycamore Maple Acer pseudoplatanus
The sycamore maple is a sturdy, deciduous tree that brings a classic look to large landscapes. It is known for its...