An important subsistence crop, pearl millet is hardy and drought-tolerant. Also known as Cenchrus americanus, it grows well near deserts where the rainfall is low. It has been cultivated in the United States since the 1850s and there are records of this important crop being grown since 2000 B.C.

Mexican tea (Dysphania ambrosioides) is native to tropical parts of the Americas. Both the leaves and stems have tiny glands that give off a bad-smelling odor. It’s a weed that grows along the sides of roads and stream beds.

Guava (*Psidium guajava*) is a fruit-producing evergreen shrub that grows natively in the Caribbean region and South America. Guava attracts the honey bee and other insects, and guava fruit is edible. Additionally, guava wood is used for smoking meat.

The peace lily gets its scientific name Spathiphyllum wallisii from a combination of the two Greek words ‘spath’ and ‘phyl’, which means spoon and leaves, respectively. The large graceful white spathe of the peace lily resembles a white flag, which is an international symbol of truce or peace.

Canyon ragweed is a member of the sunflower family, although it looks nothing like a traditional sunflower. This plant blooms in early spring and is followed by a fruit that resembles a prickly burr.

Royal poinciana (Delonix regia) is also known as the “peacock tree” or the “flamboyant tree.” It’s a Madagascar native and is known for its brilliant crimson or red-yellow flowers. It grows exceedingly fast, reaching its maximum height of around 12 m in a short amount of time.

Maize (Zea mays) is a well known domesticated cereal grain first domesticated in Mexico. In much of the world it is also called corn. Worldwide cultivation of maize surpasses other prominent grains like wheat and rice. Maize must be planted in the spring due to its intolerance for cold weather.

Giant taro is native to Southeast Asian rainforests. It was first cultivated in the Philippines. Its massive leaves resemble elephant ears. If cooked for a long time, these leaves are edible; however, the sap from the plant might hurt the skin. This plant is toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.

The garden canna lily is a perennial with large and colorful flowers. It is generally found growing in lakes and along roadsides. It’s often the Brazilian skipper’s larval host, but it also attracts other pollinators. Its common name comes from “Kanna” in Greek which means "reed-like."

Zebra plant (Aphelandra squarrosa) is a flowering plant species that is often cultivated as a houseplant. This species grows best in bright sunlight and high humidity. Zebra plant soil should be kept moist without overwatering for best results indoors.

Asian spiderflower (Arivela viscosa) flourishes in warm humid regions globally. This versatile plant grows up to 1 m tall. Products made with asian spiderflower are used in food stores to prevent certain weevil infestations. Its tiny seeds can be carried on the wind or stick to fur or clothing.

Common ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) is a plant species most commonly found in the eastern United States. Common ninebark is generally planted for erosion control and ornamental purposes. Several cultivars, such as Dart's Gold and Diabolo, have received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

New england aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) is a flowering plant native to North America. It is widely cultivated for ornamental horticulture and as a garden plant. There are over 70 cultivars of new england aster.

Rodgersia (Rodgersia podophylla) is an herbaceous perennial that’s indigenous to Korea and Japan. In the wild, it's usually found in secluded forests and alongside flowing streams. The name honor John Rodgers, a hero of the U.S. Civil War and commander of an expedition during which this species was described.

Rubber tree (Ficus elastica) is a large tree with wide, oval, glossy leaves. Its milky white latex was used for making rubber before Pará rubber tree came into use, hence the name. Rubber tree is an ornamental species, often grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.

Jerusalem thorn is a deciduous shrub native to the Mediterranean region. In the Bible, it is mentioned as the plant from which the crown of thorns was made that was placed on Jesus' head prior to his crucifixion. In the garden, it is often used as a hedge or border plant due to its thorny branches, which can help to deter animals and intruders. It is also a popular choice for xeriscaping, or landscaping in dry regions, as it is drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil conditions.

Yellow butterfly palm (Dypsis lutescens) is a flowering plant that originated in Madagascar. Other common names for yellow butterfly palm are golden cane palm and yellow palm. In tropical regions it's grown as an outdoor plant for ornamental horticulture. In temperate regions its grown indoors as a houseplant.

Crimson cattleya (Cattleya labiata) is a flowering plant native to Brazil. Crimson cattleya can grow up in other trees, on rocks, or in soil. Crimson cattleya is pollinated by insects and attracts bees. An alternative name for the crimson cattleya is the ruby-lipped cattleya.

Glory bower (Volkameria inermis) can be found growing natively in Southeast Asia, India, Australia, and some Pacific Islands. Its evergreen branches can take the form of a bush or a climber. Its tough nature and good response to trimming make it a great selection for creating topiaries or hedges. The flowers are so fragrant that they often overwhelm other scents in the area!

Jewels of Opar (Talinum paniculatum) is a succulent shrub species native to North and South America, as well as the Caribbean islands. After its introduction, though, it became culturally important in some East Asian regions. The jewels of Opar grows and spreads quickly because any part of its root can sprout into a full plant once it's in the soil.