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Main Portfolio
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MIFGS 2023
MIFGS 2023
MIFGS 2024
MIFGS 2024
About Us
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Our Process
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Gardens for Life

All the posts published

Recent Posts

5 Creative Ways to Shade Your Garden From the Australian Heat
Five Native Australian Plants That Will Attract Birds to Your Garden
Choosing the Best Irrigation System for Your Garden
Transform Your Garden With Colour
Top Five Public Gardens In Victoria

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inspiringlandscapes.com.au

This is a picture of the Aptenia Cordifolia ground

This is a picture of the Aptenia Cordifolia groundcover, a succulent plant. ⁠It can be weedy if you leave offcuts lying around, but it is an incredibly effective groundcover/weed suppressor, smothering the ground!⁠
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Unlike Tradescantia fluminensis, which is an immense pest in my view, it’s super easy to remove from your garden if you ever want to get rid of it!⁠ I’ve also seen this used as a fence screen at an acquaintance’s house, and it was effective, too!⁠
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This is the first time I’ve seen it climbing up from the ground, so it’s a pretty determined little thing⁠ as it scrambles for the light in this shaded, narrow garden bed.⁠
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I love the tiny red flowers, which also attract bees⁠.⁠ Some people say you can eat it, but I haven’t tried, and NOR DO I RECOMMEND IT!⁠
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📸: Glen Iris Project

Are you short on space but love plants? Be creativ

Are you short on space but love plants? Be creative and hang plants in your garden and even near your front door. ⁠
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It’s even better when the plants are low maintenance, so you don’t have to worry about killing them if you get a bit forgetful with the watering can 💧😉⁠
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Here are three low-maintenance plants that thrive in hanging pots in Australia:⁠
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🌿Boston Fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata): Known for its lush, feathery fronds, it loves humid environments and partial shade, perfect for covered patios or shaded verandas. ⁠It can also be grown indoors!⁠
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🌿String of (Beans Senecio radicans): This unique succulent has small, bead-like leaves that grow on long, trailing stems, ideal for hanging pots. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and is drought-tolerant, making it easy to care for in Australia’s warm climate.⁠ I find this one less finicky/fussy than the String of Pearls⁠
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🌿Spider Plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are hardy, adaptable, and great for hanging pots. Their long, arching leaves with green and white stripes add visual interest. They’re known for purifying the air and do well in indirect sunlight and average indoor conditions. I grow mine outdoors in relatively protected spots both as a groundcover under one of my maples + they are so super low maintenance in various indoor pots scattered throughout my house!⁠
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Share 📸 below of what you have growing in your hanging pots 🌸⁠
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📸 Hanging pots + windchimes - Vermont South project, 6 years on and still growing strong

This project is in the beautiful suburb of Murrumb

This project is in the beautiful suburb of Murrumbeena in Melbourne.
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Here is a shortened version of my client review from Jaspreet:⁠
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“We were lost on approaching the landscaping after completing the new house build. We decided to go for an initial paid consultation with Parveen, but we could not be happier with the outcome.⁠
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Parveen is very knowledgeable in her field. She patiently listened to and analysed all our requirements. She came fully prepared with perfect ideas we had not considered before.⁠
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We were delighted to have her consult with us —her professionalism and passion shone through.”⁠
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To read the full review, please check out the Murrumbeena project on my website: https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/portfolios/murrumbeena/⁠
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As much as I would love to say that these are two

As much as I would love to say that these are two beautiful ‘real’ seals, unfortunately, they’re not. But since we weren’t lucky enough to see the real things, they were better than nothing 😉⁠
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If you’re strolling along Hobart’s coastline, watch for this seal-iously fabulous company! 🦭✨ The seal statues near the ocean are an absolute must-see! These playful sculptures capture the spirit of Hobart’s waterfront and make the perfect backdrop for your seaside adventures. ⁠
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Whether snapping pics or chilling with your new stone-cold friends, these seals bring a fun, local vibe to the area.⁠
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Pro tip: Pose with them for a quick seaside selfie or soak in the view with these little guys. 🌊📸 It’s a seal-tastic spot for anyone exploring Hobart’s beautiful coast! ⁠

🌊 Time is like a river—always flowing, never

🌊 Time is like a river—always flowing, never stopping! You can’t touch the same water twice because it’s already drifted downstream, just like the moments in our lives. ⏳✨ ⁠
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So why not make every moment count? Whether laughing with friends, trying something new, or simply soaking up a beautiful day in your garden, each second is a one-time experience. 💫 ⁠
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Getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of life is very easy. Days roll into weeks; before we know it, we’re at the end of the month and wonder where the time has gone. 🤷⁠
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Life’s too short to let these little treasures slip away. Embrace every laugh, every sunset, and every adventure—it’s all part of your amazing journey! 🌟 ⁠

I have just released my latest blog post and wante

I have just released my latest blog post and wanted to share it with you.....⁠
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With the Aussie sun beating down, it’s time to get creative and bring cool, shady vibes to your garden! 🌴 ⁠
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Our latest blog explores five clever ways to add shade to your outdoor space, from stylish pergolas and versatile shade sails to lush tree canopies that add beauty and comfort.⁠
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Imagine sitting outside, shielded from the sun, with a light breeze and nature’s sounds. Whether you want a quick-fix shade option or something permanent that makes a statement, we’ve got you covered!⁠
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Head over to the blog for all the inspiration you need to make the most of your outdoor space this summer. With a few thoughtful additions, you’ll be ready to enjoy the sunshine and the shade in perfect balance.⁠
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Stay cool, and keep those plants happy! 🌞🌱⁠
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Read my blog here: https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/5-creative-ways-to-shade-your-garden-from-the-australian-heat/

🌿🚗 Who says your driveway can’t be a green

🌿🚗 Who says your driveway can’t be a green oasis? With a bit of creativity, you can easily maintain a variety of plants right alongside your car! Many plant options thrive in these sunny spots, from potted succulents to low-maintenance shrubs. ⁠
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Try placing some planters along the edges or corners, and mix in different textures like grasses, hardy flowers, or small evergreens to give your driveway a fun, lush vibe. Pro tip: Use durable, weather-resistant containers to keep things looking fresh year-round! 🌸🌵⁠
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Are you worried about maintenance? Don’t be! Stick to drought-tolerant plants that don’t need constant watering or fussing. Think succulents, native Australian plants, or even herbs that can double as garden decor and your next meal ingredient! ⁠
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🍃🚗 With the right mix, your driveway can go from drab to fab, becoming a charming entrance to your home. So, ready to roll out the green carpet? 🌿✨ ⁠
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📸Mount Waverley 2 years on!

💙✨ Have you ever seen something as dreamy as

💙✨ Have you ever seen something as dreamy as a blue hydrangea? These gorgeous blooms are like little puffs of magic, turning your garden into a sea of vibrant blues. ⁠
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Whether soft baby blue or a deep ocean hue, these flowers know how to steal the spotlight. And the coolest part? The colour of hydrangeas can change based on the soil’s pH levels—so you can play mad scientist with your garden and watch them shift from blue to pink! 🧪🌸⁠
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Hydrangeas are perfect for brightening up any spot and are total Instagram stars. 🌟📸 Whether you’re creating a blue-themed garden or want that pop of colour, they’ll turn heads and bring smiles. ⁠
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Plus, they make stunning-cut flowers for your home! So, who’s ready to plant some blue hydrangea and add some magic to their garden? 💙🌿 ⁠

Do you ever want to escape to your garden and full

Do you ever want to escape to your garden and fully immerse in it? Imagine sitting in the middle of your garden, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and scents of nature. 🌸✨ ⁠
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Whether it’s tall grasses swaying in the breeze, colourful blooms at arm’s reach or the soft hum of bees visiting flowers, sitting in the heart of your garden brings a whole new level of connection. ⁠
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It’s like being hugged by nature, where every angle offers something beautiful—fragrant herbs, lush greenery, and the occasional flutter of a butterfly or bird swooping in for a visit. 🌿🦋⁠
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By placing a bench or comfy chair right in the middle, you can have a front-row seat to your oasis. The garden becomes more than just a backdrop; it’s a place to relax, reflect, and truly enjoy the natural world around you. ⁠
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Whether morning sunlight warms your face or a peaceful sunset over the blooms, sitting in the middle of your garden offers a little slice of paradise where the rest of the world fades away. ⁠
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🌞 It’s your private escape, surrounded by the beauty you’ve nurtured!⁠
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📸Sound Garden, MIFGS 2024⁠

☂️💫 If you’re strolling through Wellingto

☂️💫 If you’re strolling through Wellington, keep your eyes peeled for the coolest umbrella you’ll ever see—except this won’t keep you dry! Well, technically, it will be if you’re able to huddle underneath it.⁠
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In the middle of the footpath, there’s an amazing umbrella sculpture that is turning heads and sparking conversations. 🌧️✨ ⁠
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Whether it’s a quirky take on the city’s famously unpredictable weather or just some public art fun, it’s a must-see! Snap a pic, pose, and embrace that classic Wellington vibe. Who needs sunshine when you’ve got art like this? 😉⁠
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Would anyone like a quirky sculpture in their garden that will bring a huge smile to your face? It will be so much fun! 💚⁠
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This quote beautifully reminds us that flowers are

This quote beautifully reminds us that flowers are always there for us, no matter what we’re going through. Flowers add that extra touch of beauty and happiness in moments of joy, like a wedding, a birthday, or a simple celebration. ⁠
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They symbolise life’s bright spots, bringing colour and cheer wherever they bloom. But their presence isn’t limited to just the good times.⁠
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In times of sadness, flowers offer a different kind of comfort. Whether it’s a bouquet given in sympathy or a single bloom placed in remembrance, flowers have a way of expressing emotions that words often can’t. ⁠
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They stand by us in our grief, offering a gentle reminder of beauty, hope, and the continuity of life. In this way, flowers are like loyal friends—there to lift our spirits in good times and soothe our hearts in tough ones.⁠
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Share below what kind of impact your garden has on your life 💚

🎋💦 Tranquil Water Play Meets Japanese Zen in

🎋💦 Tranquil Water Play Meets Japanese Zen in Our Maribyrnong Garden Design!⁠
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The garden was designed for homeowners who deeply love Japanese culture after many trips to Japan. We believe that we’ve carefully crafted an outdoor space that reflects that connection. 🌸🎋⁠
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Here’s what makes this garden so unique:⁠
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🌿 Simplicity Meets Sophistication – We’ve taken inspiration from traditional Japanese design principles, creating a clean, minimalist space that perfectly complements the house’s interior. It’s designed to blend seamlessly with the flow of the ground floor, offering beautiful views no matter where you’re standing.⁠
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🏞️ The “green lung” provides a fresh, calming atmosphere that brings nature into the living space. Imagine sitting in this serene setting, surrounded by greenery, and taking a deep breath of fresh air—blissful, right?⁠
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💦 Water Feature – No Japanese-inspired garden would be complete without water! We’ve added a tranquil water feature that adds a soft, soothing element to the space without being too noisy. It’s the perfect backdrop for quiet moments when you want to escape from the kids 😉⁠
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🪑 The design also tried to ensure that there’s enough space for a few pieces of furniture to be brought into the space so that the clients can fully immerse themselves in this peaceful retreat. Whether enjoying morning tea or an afternoon of relaxation, this garden is made to be lived in and appreciated from every angle.⁠
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Want to see more of this project and how we can transform your outdoor space into a serene retreat? Click 👇️ to explore the full design journey! 🏡✨⁠
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https://inspiringlandscapes.com.au/portfolios/maribyrnong/

Are you looking to transform your garden early nex

Are you looking to transform your garden early next year? 🌿 Book your garden design with us from February 2025, and enjoy two complimentary garden health checks—one at three months and another at six months after your design is complete! 🌸✨⁠
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It’s the perfect way to ensure your new garden stays in top shape while you sit back and enjoy the beauty. Don’t miss out—secure your spot today and watch your dream garden bloom! 🌻⁠
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DM me today!

I love having fruit trees in my garden, but someti

I love having fruit trees in my garden, but sometimes they can be hard work. Here are two tips for all of our citrus tree enthusiasts out there:⁠
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🍊Fertilise Regularly: ⁠
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Cumquat trees benefit from regular feeding, especially during their growing season (spring to late summer). A balanced, slow-release citrus fertiliser provides essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. ⁠
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Following the package instructions, fertilise every 6-8 weeks to support healthy growth and fruit production. ⁠
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🍊Pest Control: ⁠
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Look for common pests like aphids, scale insects, and citrus leaf miners, which can affect cumquat trees. Regularly inspect the leaves, branches, and fruit for signs of infestation. ⁠
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If pests are found, treat them promptly with organic insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to prevent damage and maintain the tree’s health. ⁠
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What do you love the most about having fruit trees outside your door?💚

My Mulgrave project, which was completed in March

My Mulgrave project, which was completed in March 2021, was definitely “kids play” 😉⁠
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The project scope was expanded from completely redesigning the rear garden to revamping the tiny front garden.⁠
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Here is the full client review from the lovely Alison and Chris:⁠
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“We couldn’t be more pleased with Parveen’s care and professionalism. She generated many creative ideas and options for us and listened carefully to our preferences and quirks.⁠
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She was particularly sensitive to the needs of our young children. She went above and beyond by billing us only for the hours she quoted, although the work took longer to complete.⁠
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We are very happy with Parveen’s plans for our garden and love the innovative design; we can’t wait to see what it will look like when it’s finished!”💚

I love the seaside, so I was pleasantly surprised

I love the seaside, so I was pleasantly surprised when I came across a sculpture of scallops when I was in Wellington, New Zealand.⁠
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It took me back to my childhood when I used to bring seashells home from the beach, clean them, and use them to decorate my room.⁠ Seashells also carry rich symbolism across different cultures and contexts. ⁠
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The scallop shell is famously associated with the Camino de Santiago, a pilgrimage route in Spain. Pilgrims often carry or wear a scallop shell to symbolise their journey.⁠
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What do scallops and seashells remind you of? 💚

This quote beautifully captures a lesson we can al

This quote beautifully captures a lesson we can all learn from flowers—about letting go of worry and simply embracing the process of growth. Think about it: flowers don’t stress about how they’ll bloom or whether they’ll be the brightest in the garden. ⁠
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They do their thing, naturally reaching for the light, and in doing so, they become something extraordinary.⁠
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It’s a reminder that we can find beauty in just being ourselves. Instead of getting caught up in the “how” or “what if,” we can focus on turning toward our sources of light—our passions, our goals, or the things that make us happy. ⁠
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Doing so allows our true selves to blossom naturally without forcing or overthinking. Just like flowers, our growth happens when we let ourselves open up to the possibilities around us 💚

Ready to turn your garden into a bird lover’s pa

Many of us like our privacy, particularly regardin

Many of us like our privacy, particularly regarding our neighbours’ inability to see over the side fence.⁠
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I’ve been incorporating quite a few dogwoods into some designs over the past couple of years, but the sheer size and profusion of flowers on this one simply blew me away!⁠
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So again, I was rooted to the spot, madly taking pics of this beauty whilst my kids were screaming at me not to miss the tourist bus back to the hotel, lol!!⁠🤣⁠
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It was such a stunning privacy screen, too. I’d rather use this plant than the usual suspects in the Pittosporum family anytime!! I find it perfect for a dense screen that keeps prying eyes away while allowing me to enjoy the stunning flowers. ⁠
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That said, though, it would require some form of regular maintenance. You wouldn’t want it to grow over on their side of the fence or push hard against the wall!⁠
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So, cutting it back regularly will help immensely with that. It’s a good routine for any hedging plant as it will prevent you from getting overwhelmed and thinking that the job is too big for you.⁠
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Keep it neat but still lovely and ‘full’ so you can enjoy its beauty and keep your privacy 💚⁠
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📸Cornus spp flowers, Picton, NZ⁠
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PS: Has anyone in Melbourne seen a specimen this lovely? Please do let me know!! 💚

We often encounter interesting plant names in gard

We often encounter interesting plant names in gardening, but even this one surprised me when I first learnt about it. ⁠This stunning plant is named a red-hot poker!⁠
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If you think about it for a minute, it does make sense. The top half is bright red, and the orange is underneath.⁠
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It’s famous for its vibrant, torch-like flower spikes that bloom from the bottom up. These flowers often start as red or orange at the top and fade to yellow or cream as they mature, giving the plant its “red hot” appearance.⁠
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If you have this plant in your garden, I would love you to share some pics 👇️ 🔥⁠

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