One day, a wise man introduced me to the thorny debate surrounding the use of the term weed. Whether we are talking about a weed or an undesirable plant, we understand that a plant that grows where it is not welcome becomes a weed. A dandelion in my lawn, perfect! A dandelion between my tomato plants, no thanks! A tomato plant between the rows of garlic: go away!
With time, some plants change their status, sometimes because we end up loving them and recognizing them at their true value.
Today, I would like to share with you a recent passion: that of discovering rebel plants? This is the name I give to plants that have managed to establish themselves in places where no one has planted them and that, against all odds, have managed to blossom to our great delight. You will quickly understand…
Without further ado, here are my favorites from last year, the 2022 Rebels of the Plant World.
The 2022 Plant Rebels
The various bindweeds (Convolvulus arvensis, an introduced species, and Calystegia sepium, a native bindweed) are pretty invaders. Skilled climbers, they quickly bloom on ephemeral structures. Although it may be fine to let them grow in an urban environment, consider removing them if you live near agricultural land or natural environments.
Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus and C. sulphureus) appreciate well drained and poor soils, which makes them excellent candidates to flower our sidewalks. The great sage ranked them in his top of the best annuals.



I hope you enjoyed it. If, like me, you are fascinated by these surprises, keep your eyes open during the summer season and you too will find some plant rebels.
During the Shutdown, when most of us tried to avoid going to the supermarket, I found more produce than I needed among the naturalized turnip greens, mustard greens and radish greens that now inhabit the abandoned ball field. It was rad, and still is.
Every time I see a flower in a sidewalk or a gutter it makes me stop and pause. (Think of the George Strait song I saw God today). Nature is amazing If we could only stop, get out of the way. and leave it be 🙂
I really enjoyed that, thanks!
Nature always finds a way. Have to admire the adaptability of any see that can grow and thrive between the cracks of a sidewalk or road.
Very interesting. How do you define a natural environment? You mention keeping mallow away from natural environments. Thank you
Very interesting! Sometimes I feel conflicted about destroying invasive plants. They are often beautiful and I can’t help but admire their strength and adaptability.