Plant Identification

This is an example of holly, from the family Aquifoliaceae and genus Ilex, which has very prickly leaves. Most are deciduous and have male and female flowers on separate bushes. These flowers are light green and inconspicuous. They are found in temperate and subtropical climates. They are known for their red berries, which are toxic to humans but are eaten by other animals. The leaves are often associated with Christmas.

This plant, from the Colocasia genus, is known colloquially as elephant ears. They are native to Polynesia and Southeast Asia, but now they are cultivated throughout the world. They have large heart-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colors, including green, black, purple, and yellow. The common name comes from the leaves' resemblance to the ears of elephants. They grow from tubers, and most are perennials.

This plant is of the phlox genus, which has 67 different species. Members of this genus are found mostly in North America in various climates, and their flowers are often fragrant and varied in color. They prefer loamy soil and full sunlight, and they are perennials. This particular plant has purple blooms. 

This is a Mexican petunia. It is a very invasive plant, which can cause problems for other plants. They are also able to survive in various climates and in inhospitable habitats. Mexican petunias can survive in dry or wet soil; their hardiness is what makes them so invasive, sometimes to the detriment of the surrounding plants. They are known to attract butterflies. The flowers are not actually petunias, though they look alike. The stems can grow three to four feet tall.