

How to identify Bells of Ireland (Moluccella laevis)
Bells of Ireland, also known as Shellflower, Molucca balmis
Bells of Ireland is recognized for its striking flower spikes that bloom in the warmer months from mid-summer to autumn. Each robust spike features densely arranged green calyces with minute, inconspicuous thorns along the stem that can be felt upon touch. These thorns provide a prickly texture. The plant typically thrives in cooler summer conditions and exhibits a semi-hardy annual growth cycle. It reaches a mature height that can range from 2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 cm), making it a noticeable addition to garden spaces.
Striking flower spikes with green calyces and prickly thorns, reaching 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) tall.
Tiny, fragrant white blooms enclosed in large, cup-shaped green calyces, forming 3-foot (90 cm) spikes.
Light green leaves, oval to heart-shaped, 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) long, with serrated edges and visible veins.
The leaves of bells of Ireland are light green, approximately 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) in length. They are generally oval to slightly heart-shaped with finely serrated edges. The leaves possess a smooth texture and a soft, somewhat velvety feel. Prominent veins are visible, creating a delicate pattern across the leaf's surface. These attributes, combined with their light green color, make the leaves a distinctive feature of bells of Ireland, aiding in easy identification.
The flowers of bells of Ireland feature tiny, fragrant white blooms measuring about 0.1 inches (2.5 mm) in diameter. These are encased within large, cup-shaped green calyces, which are the most visually striking part. Each calyx is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter and forms a densely packed spike that can reach up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height. The flowers bloom from late summer to early autumn, providing a unique and long-lasting visual appeal.
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.
Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.
The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.
The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.
The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.
Scientific Classification of Bells of Ireland