Aechmea

These bromeliads get their name from the Greek work for "spear tip." These plants grow leaves in a tight, stemless, overlapping rosette that forms a vase which can hold more than a gallon of water. Read more about these clever plants in this article.

Aeonium

The aeonium is a type of flowering cactus found in the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean region of North Africa. Aeoniums typically look like hens or chickens on top of a thick stalk. Flowers tend to be yellow in color. Learn how to care for this cactus.

African Violet

African violet grows furry leaves and flowers in several colors except red. They can be tricky, preferring strong light but not hot temperatures. Learn more about how to maintain flowering.

Agave

The agave is a type of flowering cactus used for producing tequila and rope. The plant is similar in looks to the African Aloe plant. The main difference between the two plants is the way in which they flower. Learn how to care for this cactus at HowStuffWorks.

Air Plant

Air plant completely changes color when in bloom. Most of its varieties sprout silver or green leaves. Because it doesn't have many roots, submerge it when watering. Learn more about unique display options.

Alluaudia procera

The alluaudia procera cactus from southwest Madagascar can grow quite tall and is covered in sharp thorns. It has been known to reach a height if six feet when grown indoors, and a height of thirty-six feet in the wild. Learn how to care for this cactus.

Aloe Medicine Plant

The sap of the aloe medicine plant offers a soothing remedy for sunburns and other skin irritations. Learn more about growing and using this handy house plant in this article.

Aluminum Plant

Aluminum plant, a quick grower, comes in creeping and upright varieties. Though the flowers are unremarkable, the leaves range from green to a dark brownish gold. Try restarting it from stem cuttings for best results.

Amaryllis

The amaryllis is an easy house plant that produces beautiful, showy flowers in winter. Learn how to care for the amaryllis at HowStuffWorks.

Ananas

Ananas are a world-famous family of plants that include the pineapple. They are short-stemmed ground-growing plants with leaves that can grow three or more feet tall outdoors. Learn more about these tall, delicious bromeliads in this article.

Anguloa Uniflora Orchid

Anguloa uniflora, or tulip orchid, grows a large white fragrant flower. Learn about this orchid's history and best growing conditions in this article.

Aralia

Aralia grows almost gnarled stems and branches, perfect for that bonsai look without the fuss. Be sure to maintain consistent conditions, or it will drop its leaves. Learn what light intensity it prefers.

Arrowhead Vine

Arrowhead vine grows on a trellis or drapes nicely from suspended pots. Leaves often have streaks of color and actually turn palmate with the passing of time. Learn more about its water requirements.

Ascocentrum Curvifolium Orchid

Ascocentrum curvifolium boasts a full spray of orange-red flowers. Learn about this orchid's history and ideal growing conditions in this article.

Baby Tears Plant

Baby tears plant looks good draping out of its container but can also maintain a moundlike shape with pinching. It does well in humid climes but prefers well-circulated air. Learn why to use it in a terrarium.