Jungle Music Palms and Cycads Nursery

Nursery Hours:
Monday -Saturday 9AM-4PM

Phone: (619) 291-4605
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PALM TREE, CYCAD & TROPICAL PLANT BLOG
PLANTS FOR SALE

SPECIAL SALE ITEMS

 
One of the Best Selections of Rare Plants Anywhere!
NURSERY LOCATION - ENCINITAS, CALIFORNIA
YES, WE'RE OPEN FOR BUSINESS TO THE PUBLIC
MONDAY - SATURDAY
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Banner New Plant Arrivals Feb 2019
      

NEW PLANT ARRIVALS & DISCOUNT PLANTS
PALM TREE, CYCAD AND TROPICAL PLANT BLOG

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THIS PAGE HAS OLDER POSTS FOR OCTOBER, 2022

REMINDER: POSTS HERE UPDATED EVERY SEVERAL DAYS, SO RETURN
FREQUENTLY/ LOTS OF OUR FAMOUS BLOG ONLY 
"TEN DAY SPECIALS" BELOW.

HOW THIS BLOG WORKS
New plant arrivals, desirable species and requested plants included 
New species described every few days, most recent posts at top of thread 
Jump to older Blog Threads from links below.  
Blog discusses palm trees, cycads and tropical plants
LEARN ABOUT PALM TREES AND CYCADS
Brief comments given below.  We trim this thread frequently to maintain 30 day run.
Information on sun requirements and cold tolerance given if available
Pictures of mature specimens shown when possible
In depth posts with lots of photos on some species
PRICING ON PLANTS SHOWN
On some plants, pricing given with the post
You can use quick link for all our prices:
PALM PRICES OR CYCAD PRICES
SPECIALS AND SALES
Specials below apply to drop in visits or mail orders.  Photos are representative.
All specials have a termination date and always expire when the current thread expires
Ten Day Specials  expire ten days after date of posting and are marked in red color. 
For any sale prices, you must mention all Blog Only Sale Prices when purchasing
DIRECTIONS TO NURSERY
CLICK HERE for printable copy of DIRECTIONS
450 Ocean view Ave, Encinitas, CA 92024 Hours: M-Sat, 9AM to 4PM
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Phone: 619 291 4605
Email:  phil@junglemusic.net  or 
click here FOR INSTANT EMAIL TO Phil 
MAIL ORDERS 
 Most orders sent in boxes with Fed Exp.  No international shipping.  
 Plants shipped in pots with soil.  For larger plants use trucking services.
DELIVERIES (larger orders or larger plants)
To almost anywhere within the continental U.S.  Quite affordable.
We deliver or we utilize independent trucking services on any size plants.

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MONDAY, 31 OCTOBER, 2022
     HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
 

BLECHNUM GIBBUM
THE SILVER LADY FERN



THE MINIATURE TREE FERN
YES, IT IS A MINIATURE AND STAYS SMALL!


I am really fond of this cute and dwarf type of Tree Fern native to an assortment of Pacific Islands stretching from Hawaii to the Asian Pacific.  The reason I like it is because it stays small over time.  To make this point, I am going to first shown you a 15g plant that we got from a private collection.  You'll see this plant in the first two rows of photos.  The third row shows a standard 5 gallon nursery plant.  You'll note that, in twenty years, three inches of trunk turns into two feet of trunk.  Now, that's either from super slow growth or genetics.  I think it's the latter.  The tallest specimen I've seen in a garden is about five feet tall overall.  Trunk diameter is four inches or less.  It likes filtered light and can take cold weather into the mid-twenties F or maybe a bit less.  We have 1 gallon size and often 5 gallon for sale.  These are easy to mail order.

BLECHNUM GIBBUM BLECHNUM GIBBUM BLECHNUM GIBBUM
BLECHNUM GIBBUM BLECHNUM GIBBUM BLECHNUM GIBBUM
BLECHNUM GIBBUM BLECHNUM GIBBUM BLECHNUM GIBBUM

 

COCONUT PALM
COCOS NUCIFERA


A GORGEOUS TROPICAL PALM
VERY LARGE BRIGHT YELLOW FRUIT
VERY DIFFICULT TO GROW IN SOUTHERN CA
 

There is hardly a palm more beautiful than Cocos nucifera, the Coconut Palm.  Although no one knows for sure it's original native habitat, presently they are found naturalized in tropical areas around the world.  They tolerate heat and sun, live right near salt containing oceans and get to a height of about 40 feet.  The yellow colored fruits are produced in abundance.  You might recognize store bought coconuts that are brown.  These are the seeds and within the thick fibrous husk of the fruit.  From a cultural point of view, this palm doesn't have a lot of cold tolerance.  It succumbs with temperatures below the upper thirties F. 
There are few if any Coconuts flourishing in Southern CA.  Once in a while you'll hear of one that's gotten overhead.  But, invariably, even these die.  All the photos here were taken in the Miami, FL area.  We do carry them from time to time in smaller sizes but try to talk the customer out of getting one.  But, you may be able to grow one inside.

Cocos nucifera Cocos nucifera Cocos nucifera
Cocos nucifera Cocos nucifera Cocos nucifera
Cocos nucifera Cocos nucifera Cocos nucifera
Cocos nucifera Cocos nucifera Coconut Palm

 

WODYETIA BIFURCATA
THE FOXTAIL PALM

 

THIN TRUNK, FLUFFY GREEN LEAVES
MEDIUM SIZED
SPECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE


The Foxtail Palm, Wodyetia bifuracata, is native to Queensland, Australia and is a single trunk palm.  It gets to about twenty-five feet height, has fluffy green plumose leaves, is crown shafted as shown below and is single trunk.  It has a thin trunk, usuall mature about six to eight inches.  It is a great species for more inland areas that see a fair amount of heat.  It does love heat and sun.  Although some like to plant this species in colonies of two or three plants, it looks great as a stand-alone single palm. Because it wants sun, it should not be put in a shady area.  Cold hardiness is about 23 to 25 degrees F. 

REGULAR PRICE 25 GALLON $625
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25G $575



Wodyetia bifurcata Wodyetia bifurcata Wodyetia bifurcata
Wodyetia bifurcata Wodyetia bifurcata Wodyetia bifurcata
Wodyetia bifurcata Wodyetia bifurcata Wodyetia bifurcata

 

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE REGULAR LADY PALM



ONE OF THE BEST INTERIOR PALMS
ALSO GREAT UNDERSTORY GARDEN PLANT
SPECIAL TWENTY YEAR OLD 25G SIZE

We have an assortment of Lady Palms which are near perfect - almost as nice as the expensive ones we bring in out of Hawaii.  But, they are locally grown and better priced.  And, we are offering them on special.  Have you ever wondered why you hardly ever see Rhapis on sale?  It's because they are super slow growing.  The plants shown here are eight, maybe ten years old.  Therefore, growers have little motivation to sell them cheap.  The plants shown here are nice enough for a bank or hotel lobby, a professional office or even your living room. 

Rhapis excelsa
 is native to Asia and typically doesn't get much over 8 feet tall in a pot.  They do great in shady locations of the garden or inside the home.  They are a very nice patio plant.  Cold hardiness is about 20 degrees F.  They want low dose fertilizer.  Too much fertilizer will burn them.  The plant size below are in 25 gallon pots and have been at the nursery for about 20 years.  This size can have 20 to 30 canes in each pot.  We have only a few this size - and also have the even more rare Rhapis humilis in good sizes.

REGULAR PRICE THESE OLD 25G PLANTS $800
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $650

Important:  Mention this Blog Only Offering for this price when you purchase.  Note, limited supply available.


Rhapis excelsa 25g Rhapis excelsa 25g Rhapis excelsa 25g
Rhapis excelsa 25g Rhapis excelsa 25g
Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa

 

CHAMAEDOREA COSTARICANA
ONE OF THE BEST BAMBOO PALMS


EASY TO GROW - A GREAT INTERIOR PALM 
SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This suckering palm species is native to Mexico and Central America.  It is one of about four types of "Bamboo Palms" and is probably either the best or in a stiff competition with Chamaedorea hooperiana.  This species gets to a mature height of twelve to sixteen feet, has strong 1 inch to 1.5 inch trunks which are green in color with prominent rings, and about three to four foot long leaves.  It is an upright grower and does clump.  It doesn't run.  It takes filtered light or morning sun along the coast.  I've even heard of some growing it in full sun although I'd not recommend it.  It is a good growing species.  Cold hardiness is into the mid to lower 20's F. 

Below I'm showing in the first six photos the 15g size which can be purchased with the Sale discount.  Plants this size will really take off in the garden.  If you are interested in mail order, select a 5 gallon plant which is easier to ship.  BTW, this species is fairly difficult to find.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $215


Chamaedorea costaricana 15g Chamaedorea costaricana 15g Chamaedorea costaricana 15g
Chamaedorea costaricana 15g Chamaedorea costaricana 15g Chamaedorea costaricana 15g
Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana

 

CHAMAEDOREA TEPEJILOTE
SINGLE TRUNK, TALL 
SHADE-LOVING PINNATE PALM


DARK GREEN RINGED TRUNK
OFTEN GROWN AS A "MULTIPLE"
SPECIAL 15G SIZE

This single trunk pinnate palm is native to areas extending from southern Mexico down to Columbia.  They are often grown for food as the male blossoms are cooked and eaten as a delicacy.  This species doesn't take sun here - it'll burn.  But, in shade it thrives in temperatures down to the mid-twenties F.  It is quick growing and has a rather thick, prominently ringed dark green trunk.  Flowers are quite prominent and, if you have several plants closely situated, the chances are you'll obtain fruit without even trying.  One photo shows a flower with green fruit. 

This species can also be grown inside the home as long as the air is not too hot and dry.  I personally like the looks of a collection of several plants grown together.  Over time, as they age and get overhead, there will be some "stair-stepping" of the crowns and this is quite attractive.  Cold tolerance outside is into the mid-twenties F.  It needs filtered light, even when tall.  We have singles and some multiples in our 15 gallon size which can be purchased at a discounted price with our Sale.  They are very nice and really too big for mail order.  For the latter folks, get our 5 gallon size.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $220

Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g
Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g
chamaedorea tepejilote Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g chamaedorea tepejilote

 

CHAMAEDOREA ARENBERGIANA
SINGLE TRUNK UNDERSTORY PALM WITH WIDE LEAFLETS

MEDIUM HEIGHT MATURE - PROMINENT TRUNK RINGS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This single trunk species is from Mexico and Central America.  It is pinnate like other Chamaedoreas with a trunk diameter of an inch or a bit more.  The leaves a five feet long with wide leaflets and prominent drip tips.  You can see how wide the leaflets are from the photos.  It is a very tropical and exotic understory palm.  It  prefers moist but good draining soil.  The trunks are dark green and prominent trunk rings are present.  Mature height is about 12 feet.  You'd want to make sure this palm doesn't excede your canopy to expose it to full sun.  Low temperatures tolerated are about to a freeze and this species likes filtered light.  Below I've shown you photos of our 5 gallon size which we are putting on Special.  We also have 15 gallon size available.  The last row of photos have pictures by palmpedia and RPS.  The last photo shows mature seeds and the trunk.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110


Chamaedorea arenbergiana 5g Chamaedorea arenbergiana 5g Chamaedorea arenbergiana 5g
Chamaedorea arenbergiana 5g Chamaedorea arenbergiana 5g Chamaedorea arenbergiana
Chamaedorea arenbergiana  pritchardia hillebrandii pritchardia hillebrandii
Chamaedorea arenbergiana PalmPadia CHAMAEDOREA ARENBERGIANA TS RPS CHAMAEDOREA ARENBERGIANA

 

JUBAEA CHILENSIS
THE CHILEAN WINE PALM

 

FATTEST TRUNK OF ANY PALM
SPECIAL JUVENILE 5 GALLON PLANTS

This species is known at the Chilean Wine Palm.  It can have trunk diameters up to four feet.  To get a large trunking tree from a small plant can take several decades.  Ultimate height can reach at least forty feet.  Leaves are green and sometimes a blue-green color.  The trunk is smooth and the fruit is yellow with a large brown seed inside.  The leaf stems are unarmed.  Cold hardiness in into the mid teens F.  It's a sun species, even in the desert.  The plants on sale are truly massive 15 gallon specimens.  On some, the trunk almost fills the 15 inch diameter pot.  Also, notice the somewhat blue petioles.  These may end up being the blue variety of the Chilean Wine Palm.  On Special are five gallon sized plants that are ready to ship or plant.  You’d start them off in a little sun and over time move them into full sun.  We’ve found that young plant don’t do well if thrown into full hot sun.  Limited numbers.  

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110

But, mention this Special to get your discount.  The 5 gallon size is shown in the first five photos below.


  Read more about Jubaea chilensi


Jubaea chilensis 5g Jubaea chilensis 5g Jubaea chilensis 5g
Jubaea chilensis 5g Jubaea chilensis 5g Jubaea chilensis
Jubaea chilensis Jubaea chilensis Jubaea chilensis

 

RAVENEA SAMBIRANENSIS
RARE SINGLE TRUNK PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

WHEN MATURE, LANDSCAPE SIZED SPECIMEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON PLANTS

This species of Ravenea is from both the west and eastern sides of the Island of Madagascar.  It was named after a river on the island.  It is a large and elegant pinnate palm with heights reportedly up to one hundred feet.  Trunk diameter is one foot.  It grows at elevations from sea level to six thousand feet in both dry and moist native habitats.  When younger, this species has flat erect leaves that go straight upwards.  However, with age, this species produces leaves that are keeled and curve downwards at the ends.  When mature the overall crown is hemispherical with the leaves in the upper portion of the circle.  Because of its large size, this plant should be considered a major landscape item and not a companion plant.  Photos below show how large this palm is when mature.

I have a limited number of five gallon plants on sale.  They should be grown in an area where they can work their way from strong filtered light into full sun.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F.  They like moisture but need good draining soil.  My thanks to TS at RPS for the photos below.

REGULAR PRICE FIVE GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $115

 

RAVENEA SAMBIRANENSIS RAVENEA SAMBIRANENSIS RAVENEA SAMBIRANENSIS
RAVENEA SAMBIRANENSIS RAVENEA SAMBIRANENSIS RAVENEA SAMBIRANENSIS
RAVENEA SAMBIRANENSIS habitat Ravenea sambiranensis TS RPS  RAVENEA SAMBIRANENSIS TS RPS

 

DYPSIS DECARYI
THE TRIANGLE PALM


NATIVE TO MADAGASCAR
MATURE HEIGHT A BIT OVER TWENTY FEET
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 3G SIZE

This single trunk, sun loving pinnate palm from Southern  Madagascar gets to a height of about twenty feet or a bit more, likes full, hot sun and is cold tolerant to about 23 degrees F.  Its crown shaft and leaves are aligned in three ranks.  Thus, the common name of “Triangle Palm”.  Shown here are nice 3g size with height to 4 feet or taller in their pots.  We do have many sizes for sale including large 1 gallon, 15g and a few larger 25g / 24 inch boxes.  Maximum height of this species is 20 to 25 feet.  Growth rate is medium.

REGULAR PRICE 3G SIZE $110
TEN DAY SPECIAL 3G SIZE $95

Just mention this Blog Special when purchasing to get this special price.


DYPSIS DECARYI DYPSIS DECARYI DYPSIS DECARYI
DYPSIS DECARYI Dypsis decaryi  DYPSIS DECARYI

 

LIVISTONA SARIBUS
LARGE, DARK & HOOKED SPINES

MEDIUM TO TALL FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON POT SIZE

This medium to tall fan palm is native to southeast Asia.  It can get to heights of thirty-five feet or more.  It is an interesting palm that is easy to grow and has a very ornamental leaf with deep divisions of the segments.  Its leaf segments almost make a complete circle.  Leaf color is green.  The spines on the petioles tend to be dark in color and dramatic, usually the thing most people remember most about this species.  Another interesting thing is that the seed fruit is blue in color as shown below.  It is a sun species and cold hardy into the mid to low-twenties.  The 5g on sale are nicely sized.  We also have 15 gallon plants available.  Shipping is possible.  The last photo is by John Volk.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $110


Livistona saribus 5g  Livistona saribus 5g  Livistona saribus 5g 
Livistona saribus 5g  Livistona saribus 5g  Livistona saribus 5g 
Livistona saribus   Livistona saribus 5g  Livistona saribus  

 

CARYOTA URENS
THE GIANT MOUNTAIN FISHTAIL
FAST GROWING - SUPER TALL



NOT AVAILABLE FOR YEARS
TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE 2 GALLON SIZE

Caryota urens 
is a tall single trunk monocarpic palm species native to Asia.  It is fast growing and can get to a height of 70 feet.  It is definitely a canopy-forming palm species.  Leaves a green and leaflets are premorse (jagged at their ends).  Some people love the grandeur of these palms.  Trunks are tan, ringed and about 16 inches diameter on average.  It will get taller and more quickly get there than almost any other palm in your garden.  They want full sun and, especially if inland, plenty of water.  Because they are monocarpic (flower and then die), one needs a plant that is near death to get seeds.  This occurs rarely.  We were able to germinate seeds from such a plant.  They are presently in 2 gallon pots (on Special) to give their roots a chance to take offer and promote growth.  I’ve not had this species available for about six to eight years.  They are on their second leaf.  Of note, there’s been a high demand for this species because of its scarcity and non-availability.  I wish I had larger to offer but we just don’t.

TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE 2 GALLON $57.50


Cayrota urens 2g Cayrota urens 2g Cayrota urens 2g
Cayrota urens 2g Cayrota urens 2g Cayrota urens 2g
Caryota urens Caryota urens Caryota urens

 

EUTERPE EDULIS
THIN, SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM
EXOTIC AND TROPICAL APPEARING



SMOOTH CROWN, COLORED CROWN SHAFT

TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE

Euterpe edulis is a fun palm to grow because it is super attractive, has a narrow trunk and a beautiful, smooth crown shaft.  I have had several in my garden.  On mine, the crown shafts were a purple-green color but it's more common to see them as a lime green.  Maximum height is about thirty feet with about a four inch thick trunk.  Leaves tend to arch down and leaf color is green.  Typically and most successful is to start in filtered light and work it's way into full sun along the coast.  It's cold hardy into the upper twenties F.  Anticipate a plant life of about thirty years.  Also of note is the fact that the hearts of this palm are edible and a delicacy in many areas.  The size on special are in one gallon pots.  These would be a starter size.  They would be easy to ship, weather permitting.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $55

Remember to mention this Blog Special when purchasing to get this price.  The last photo is c/o Wikipedia.


Euterpe edulis Euterpe edulis Euterpe edulis
Euterpe edulis Euterpe edulis Euterpe edulis
Euterpe edulis Euterpe edulis Euterpe edulis Wikipedia

 

PRESTOEA MONTANA
AKA PRESTOEA ACUMINATA VAR. MONTANA

 

RARE PINNATE PALM FROM PUERTO RICO
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1G SIZE

Prestoea is a genus that is very closely related to another palm genus, Euterpe.  It is found in the Caribbean, Central and South America.  Essentially all Euterpe are crown shafted palms.  Many of the Prestoea are not.  There are also distinctions between the flowers of these two genera.  Also, many of the Prestoea are suckering.  But, there is one that is single trunk.  This is Prestoea montana, native to mountainous areas of Puerto Rico.  I've always known of this species as not having a crown shaft.  But, I've seen photos (including ones from native habitats) where a crown shaft is seen.  

The hallmarks of this species are its wide and very shiny green leaves, its somewhat slender trunk and its overall beautiful appearance.  Plant heights can reach forty feet or more.  This species should be grown in part day sun or filtered light.  It likes rich soil and ample moisture.  I'd estimate its cold tolerance is down to about a freeze or a bit less.  It is not a species for a beginner to try.  We're putting the one gallon plants on Special.  We do have larger sizes available up to 15 gallon.  Note that this species has historically been known as "Prestoea montana" but in more recent years has been considered a variety of P. acuminata.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $57.50

Remember:  Mention this Special for this price


 
Prestoea montana 1g  Prestoea montana 1g  Prestoea montana 1g 
Prestoea montana 1g  Prestoea montana 1g  Prestoea montana 1g 
Prestoea montana 1g  Prestoea montana 1g  Prestoea montana  

  

CHAMBEYRONIA HOOKERI
THE BLONDE FLAME THROWER PALM


GORGEOUS PALM FROM NEW CALEDONIA
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE ONE GALLON SIZE

The palm shown in the first two rows is a 5 gallon size of Chambeyronia hookeri with its blonde colored crown shaft.  This species is hard to find.  It is different in appearance from the dark green crown shafted form, Chambeyronia macrocarpa.  Here's some facts about this species:

•  Growth habit and care about the same as macrocarpa
•  Along the coast will tolerate full sun if you're are not too far inland
•  Crown shaft is yellow-tan colored and quite prominent
•  Cold tolerance is about 23 degrees
•  Growth rate on this species like macrocarpa is slow to medium but improves once planted in the ground.
• Trunk diameter is about 8 inches typically and overall height of mature plants is about 25 feet
•  Leaflets are shiny green, thick and sturdy, and quite wide as shown
•  Like macrocarpa, about 95% of the time throws newly emerging red leaf as shown here.  Rarely a plant will not throw new red leaves and there's no way of predicting this.
• Also makes a great interior palm inside the home

We’re putting large one gallon on Special but also have 5 and 15g sizes available.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $57.50

This size is simple to ship weather permitting.  You'll love this species.

 
Chambeyronia hookeri 1g Chambeyronia hookeri 1g Chambeyronia hookeri 1g
Chambeyronia hookeri 1g Chambeyronia hookeri 1g Chambeyronia hookeri 1g
Chambeyronia hookeri Chambeyronia hookeri Chambeyronia hookeri  

 

DYPSIS SPECIES "LAFAMAZANGA"
LITTLE KNOWN ABOUT IT



SUCKERING THIN TRUNKED SPECIES
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SEEDLINGS


Very little is known about this palm.  It's even unclear as to whether it's a true species or some kind of Dypsis hybrid.  It is a thin trunked, suckering species that enthusiasts are growing and discussing.  Many are having success with it.  The trunks are about 2 inches thick, the crown shafts have dark speckles and a silver color and the trunks are prominently ringed.  Consensus is to grow it in filtered light and let it work its way into the sun.  This is the first time we've offered them for sale.  These bands have 2 to 3 leaves. They are extremely rare.  Very limited numbers.

REGULAR PRICE BAND $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $57.50


The garden photo is c/o PalmTalk by an unknown author.


Dypsis sp. lafamazanga Dypsis sp. lafamazanga Dypsis sp. lafamazanga
Dypsis sp. lafamazanga  

 

ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS BLUE
PLANT BELOW FROM TWO SUPER BLUE PARENTS 


FULL SUN PLANT IN MANY AREAS
CONING SIZE - GNARLY LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL CONING SIZED PLANT


This sought after rare cycad is from the Republic of South Africa.  There are both green and blue leaflet forms as well as many that are somewhere in between.  The plant on sale reportedly came from two super blue parents but has not seen full sun.  So, the color should improve to a nice blue although it doesn't show it yet.  It is similar to E. horridus but the leaflets are less lobed and leaf color is anywhere from green to blue.  It is a good growing species in Southern California.  Along the coast it tolerates full sun.  Far inland, part day sun or even strong filtered light is best.  Cold hardiness is about 22 degrees F.  Leaf length is three to five feet.  A very mature plant may have three feet of trunk or a bit more.  The plant on special is in a 15 gallon pot with a caudex of 10 inches.  It can be mail ordered in a large box.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SPECIMEN CYCAD $1650
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $1400


Remember to mention this Special for your discount at the time of purchase.

 
Encephalartos arenarius blue 15g 10 inches Encephalartos arenarius blue 15g 10 inches Encephalartos arenarius blue 15g 10 inches
Encephalartos arenarius blue 15g 10 inches Encephalartos arenarius blue 15g 10 inches Encephalartos arenarius blue 15g 10 inches
Encephalartos arenarius blue 15g 10 inches Encephalartos arenarius blue Encephalartos arenarius blue

 

ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 

UPRIGHT GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS

This cycad is native to Swaziland, northern South Africa.  It is known as one of the most attractive of all the green cycads.  It does great in Southern California but is rare and hard to find.  New leaves tend to be upright.  Most pronounced is the "frost" appearance of leaves as shown below.  This is from small hairs on the leaflets.  It makes a medium to large mature specimen.  Mature size can be over fifteen feet with 6 to 10 foot green leaves.  Leaflets are armed.  Along the coast it’ll take full sun.  Far inland I’d recommend limited sun.  Cold tolerance is down to the low 20’s F.  If you desire a big one, we have them.  Also, on sale.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE THIS SPECIES $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE BAND $72.50

Below I'm showing photos of a large specimen at the nursery


Encephalartos paucidentatus band Encephalartos paucidentatus band Encephalartos paucidentatus band
Encephalartos paucidentatus band Encephalartos paucidentatus band Encephalartos paucidentatus band
Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus

 

LEPIDOZAMIA PEROFFSKYANA
USER FRIENDLY CYCAD – SPINELESS!



LARGE GREEN CYCAD FOR FILTERED LIGHT OR COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS 

I enjoy talking about this Australian cycad species because it is one of my favorites.  It is a large cycad over time with a crown width of eight to ten feet.  I say "user friendly" above because this is one of the few cycad species that has absolutely no spines - none of the leaflets, none one the stems.  This is a large species with trunks slowly getting to over ten feet and leaf length typically six to eight feet or a bit more.  Trunk diameter is usually about 18 inches.  Leaves are green with a smooth petiole with no spines.  Leaflets are glossy green.  

It prefers filtered light or full sun along the coast.  I have also heard of this species being grown as a house plant.  It’d be easy as a filtered light patio cycad.  It is easy to grow and has a cold hardiness into the low 20’s F.  Most of these bands have 2-3 leaves and are 2.5 - 3 years old. Easy to mail order.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $57.50


Lepidozamia peroffskyana band Lepidozamia peroffskyana band Lepidozamia peroffskyana band
Lepidozamia peroffskyana band Lepidozamia peroffskyana band Lepidozamia peroffskyana band
Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana

 

ENCEPHALARTOS MUNCHII
A RARE CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD

BLUE – GREEN SPINY LEAFLETS
SUPER DIFFICULT TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON PLANT

Native to Mozambique, this small to medium sized cycad grows in scrub forest among rocks and boulders.  It is distinguished by its blue to blue-green color and by having leaflets that are prominently spiny.  In my experience, leaf color is sometimes very blue, other times blue-green.  You'll sometimes hear the description as "soapy green" to describe the leaves.  Overall, the leaf color is variable.  Trunk size is usually under three feet.  Upright leaves are about four feet long or less.  Leaves are keeled and leaflets are lanceolate and spiny.  This species likes full sun and is cold tolerant into the low 20's F.  The first six pictures show a 15 gallon plant with a three inch caudex.  We're putting this actual plant on sale.  I suspect outdoors in sun (greenhouse grown so far) it'll show more of the blue color as the parents were blue.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD $525
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $450

 
Encephalartos munchii 15g 3 inches Encephalartos munchii 15g 3 inches Encephalartos munchii 15g 3 inches
Encephalartos munchii 15g 3 inches Encephalartos munchii 15g 3 inches Encephalartos munchii 15g 3 inches
Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii

  

RABITTS FOOT FERN
DAVALIA FEJEENSIS



DWARF FERN - ABOUT 18 INCHES TALL
CREEPS ON GROUND WITH FURRY FEET
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


This popular fern is known for its furry rhizomes which make new plants and can form near sphere of leaves when grown in a basket.  Or, you can grow it in the garden where it'll crawl the garden floor.  It is native to Fiji.  Leaves come off the rhizomes and are about 12 to 16 inches long.  Their color is green.  They are easy to propagate by cutting and rooting one of the rhizomes with a few leaves.  They prefer filtered light and are cold hardy into the twenties F.  Many people grow this fern indoors.  We're offering full 5 gallons on special.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPEDCAL 5 GALLON $60


Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.

Rabbits Foot Fern Davalia fejensis Rabbits Foot Fern Davalia fejensis Rabbits Foot Fern Davalia fejensis
Rabbits Foot Fern Davalia fejensis Rabbits Foot Fern Davalia fejensis Rabbits Foot Fern Davalia fejensis
Rabbits Foot Fern Davalia fejensis Rabbits Foot Fern Davalia fejensis Rabbits Foot Fern Davalia fejensis

 

LEATHER FERN
RUMORHA ADIANTIFORMIS



A PARTICULARLY SHORT FORM OF THIS SPECIES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

The leather fern is a durable and easy to grow fern that tolerates full sun along the coast.  Most ferns want filtered light.  It gets to a height of about two to three feet and is a similar width. The variety on sale today is one that many people seek out.  It has a mature height under two feet in the sun.  It can be planted as an individual plant or be used as a ground cover or as a short hedge.  Cold hardiness is into the 20's F.  It wants adequate water but is somewhat drought tolerant.  Leaves are branched and green.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $70
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $60

Mail order is possible.  The last photo is c/o watersavingplants website but is the more common variety, not this super short form.


Leather Fern dwarf variety Leather Fern dwarf variety Leather Fern dwarf variety
Leather Fern dwarf variety Leather Fern dwarf variety Leather Fern dwarf variety

 

ALOCASIA SUMO
HYBRID ALOCASIA - EXOTIC WITH SOME COLD HARDINESS



LUSH & TROPICAL - WILL TAKE COASTAL SUN

TEN DAY SPECIAL FIFTEEN GALLON SIZE

Alocasia sumo is a hybrid species - a cross between A. portora and "purple cloak".  The cold hardiness comes from the portora parentage.  This is a medium sized hybrid with 3 to 4 foot long leaves that are diamond shaped with a purple hue to the underside of the leaves.  Leaves are a lesser purple-green and point upwards.  There are prominent veins on the leaves. 

Plant height should be about 6 to 8 feet.  It is reported that this species is a "7b" zone species which means it should tolerate a freeze.  Obviously, it'd look best in summer.  We'd recommend filtered light or limited sun.  The juvenile plants on sale are in one gallon pots.  They are being grown in an un-heated greenhouse.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $200

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $175


These can be shipped by mail order but would require a large shipping box.  I'm showing the 15g size through below.  I don't have a garden picture. 

Alocasia sumo Alocasia sumo Alocasia sumo
Alocasia sumo Alocasia sumo Alocasia sumo
Alocasia sumo Alocasia sumo Alocasia sumo

 

MUSA SUMATRANA HYBRID
A NON-FRUITING BANANA CROSSED WITH A FRUITING BANANA



MAKES A PRETTIER FRUITING PLANT
DEFINITE RED COLOR TO LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS


The plants I'm showing here may be very interesting.  It's a cross between the ornamental Musa sumatrana (zebrina) and a fruiting type of Banana.  The hybridizer told me it produces edible bananas but do have some small seeds in the fruit.  Mature height should be about 8 feet.  Like most Bananas, it does sucker and the fruiting stalk is replaced by a new stalk.  It has light green leaves with attractive purple splotches and maroon underside.  See photos below.  It'd want full sun and should be cold tolerant well into the mid-twenties F.  Below I'm showing you the 15 gallon size.  These plants are very nicely sized with some overhead.  BTW, they are near impossible to find.  I have no mature photos to show you as it's a new hybrid.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $175


  Musa sumatrana hybrid  Musa sumatrana hybrid
Musa sumatrana hybrid Musa sumatrana hybrid Musa sumatrana hybrid
Musa sumatrana hybrid Musa sumatrana hybrid Musa sumatrana hybrid

 

COSTUS WOODSONII
"DWARF FRENCH KISS" VARIETY

DWARF FLOWERING LANDSCAPE PLANT
CAN BE GROWN IN THE HOUSE
SPECIAL 1 GALLON SIZE

This suckering tropical plant is native to Panama and Costa Rica.  It is a dwarf with a mature height of two to three feet.  Leaves are shiny, green and about 3 inches wide and 8 inches long.  Blossoms are red, upright and tightly formed.  See photo by AG2.  Along the coast it tolerates full sun but inland areas should grow it in filtered light.  The size shown are about 2 years old in one gallon pots.  Mail order possible.  This is is one of the rare times that we've offered this plant for sale.

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $50
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1G $52.50


Costus woodsonii dwarf french kiss 1g Costus woodsonii dwarf french kiss 1g Costus woodsonii dwarf french kiss 1g
Costus woodsonii dwarf french kiss 1g Costus woodsonii dwarf french kiss 1g Costus woodsonii dwarf french kiss 1g
  Costus woodsonii dwarf french kiss by Agristarts  

 

AECHMEA BLANCHETIANA
LARGER TYPE OF COLORFUL BROMELIAD


TOLERATES FULL SUN - FAIRLY COLD HARDY
DIFFICULT TO LOCATE - LEAF COLOR YELLOW, GREEN OR ORANGE
SPECIAL ON ORANGE COLORED 2 GALLON SIZE

This is a great Bromeliad for Southern California - or for many areas in the country where severe cold is not seen.  Native to eastern Brazil, they get heights of three to four feet and tolerate full sun easily here along our coast.  Cold hardiness is into the mid to upper twenties F.  I prefer the colorful forms although green is also seen.  The problem is that they are hard to find.  All the ones we sell come from private gardens.  As they sucker and multiply, garden enthusiasts sometimes find they are getting too large.  So, we buy them from these folks.  They are rarely if ever available through commercial lines.  The ones on Special are the orange variety – called “orange ade”.  These are a fantastic full sun companion plant.  We have five or six for sale in v this smaller size.  The 3 gallon are bigger and slightly more expensive.  The last two garden photos are of the "orange ade" variety.

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON $65


Aechmean blanchetianna orange ade 2g Aechmean blanchetianna orange ade 2g Aechmean blanchetianna orange ade 2g
Aechmean blanchetianna orange ade 2g Aechmean blanchetianna orange ade 2g Aechmean blanchetianna orange ade 2g
Aechmean blanchetianna orange ade  aECHMEA BLANCHETIANNA Aechmea blanchetianna

 

SATURDAY, 29 OCTOBER, 2022 (ADDITIONAL EXTRA "MINI-POST" TODAY )

CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA
SUPER CUTE DWARF UNDERSTORY PALM



SIMPLE, UNDIVIDED LEAVES
A REAL COLLECTOR ITEM


This is an adorable small, single trunk, understory palm from Southern Mexico that is typically about two feet tall.  In habitat, it has been known to attain a height of three to four feet.  Trunks are quite thin, usually about a quarter of an inch thick.  Leaves are complete (simple) with no divided leaflets.  It is closely related to Chamaedorea geonomiformis, just smaller.  The lumping type taxonomists must drool at the possibility of someday lumping the two together.  It is rarely seen on the market.  Recently we got in about five of these and they sold the same day.  But, I still wanted to show them to you.  It wants filtered light and has a cold hardiness somewhere in the mid-twenties F.  Because of its rarity, little is offered about culture in reference books.  Anticipate in the future that, from time to time, we'll have small plants available.

 
    Chamaedorea tenella
Chamaedorea tenella Chamaedorea tenella  
Chamaedorea tenella Chamaedorea tenella Chamaedorea tenella

 

CARYOTA GIGAS
"THAI MOUNTAIN GIANT", "KING KONG PALM", "BLACK STEM FISHTAIL"


TALL AND THICK TRUNK FISHTAIL PALM
PRESENT SHORTAGE ON THE MARKET
SPECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE

This beautiful large palm from northern Thailand has been given a lot of common names.  It is a dramatically attractive shade producing palm with long, wide leaves.  It is a monocarpic species so one only gets seeds when a tree blossoms and dies.  In recent times it’s been near impossible to find this species around.  We have available a few 20g which we’re offering for sale and giving a bit of a discount.  This species is totally different than the more common Caryota urens.  It is not as tall and has a thicker trunk.  Mature height is about 35 feet.  Leaves are 14 feet long and 12 feet wise, so you’ll get a lot of shade below.  It is cold hardy to about 22 degrees F.  It is quick growing and will tolerate full coastal sun.  If you've been trying to find one of this species, you know they are near impossible to find, especially with any size. 

REGULAR PRICE 25 GALLON SIZE $700
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE $595

I only have a few of these.  Give one of these a chance in the garden and it'll take off in a year or two.


Caryota gigas Caryota gigas Caryota gigas
Caryota gigas Caryota gigas Caryota gigas
Caryota gigas CARYOTA GIGAS CARYOTA GIGAS

 

 

DYPSIS LANCEOLATA
NATIVE TO COMORO ISLANDS
USUALLY A SUCKERING PALM



DESIRABLE PALM FROM THE COMOROS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


This suckering palm species from the Comoro Islands near Madagascar is ideal for filtered light.  It produces stems about three inches in diameter and typically gets to a height of about fifteen feet in many years.  It usually does sucker but, in my experience, has a limited number of trunks.  Sometimes plants remain single trunk.  The crown shaft areas of large plants often shown an assortment of colors including silver, brown and green.  Leaflets are wide and leaves are a bit keeled.  It has prominent rings on the trunk.  Shown here are 15 gallon plants on special.  We do have other sizes not on sale.  Figure cold tolerance is into the mid to upper 20's F.  This species is not for full sun far inland.  Filteredlight is preferred.  Cold hardness is into the upper twenties F. or lower. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $215

 
Dypsis lanceolata Dypsis lanceolata Dypsis lanceolata
Dypsis lanceolata Dypsis lanceolata Dypsis lanceolata
Dypsis lanceolata Dypsis lanceolata Dypsis lanceolata

 

SYAGRUS SCHIZOPHYLLA
MEDIUM HEIGHT GREEN SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM


A SEED PRODUCING PARENT OF THE BEAUTIFUL COCONUT QUEEN!
SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS

This single trunk species is from Brazil and never gets very tall.  Usually they are never over twenty feet in height.  A most prominent feature of this species are the retained leaf bases as shown below.  It is super slow growing and, when mature, makes sherbet orange fruits of good size.  It is unusual for a Syagrus because it has modified small spines (more like saw edge prominences) of the leaf stem.  If you cross this plant with pollen from a Queen Palm you’ll get one of the best looking palms ever - The Coconut Queen Palm.  This latter hybrid never gets very tall and really resembles a Coconut Palm.  We’re putting 15 gallon size of S. schizophylla on sale.  We only have a few.  Want to be the next palm hybridizer?  You better get one of these. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $220


SYAGRUS SCHIZOPHYLLA SYAGRUS SCHIZOPHYLLA SYAGRUS SCHIZOPHYLLA
SYAGRUS SCHIZOPHYLLA SYAGRUS SCHIZOPHYLLA SYAGRUS SCHIZOPHYLLA
SYAGRUS SCHIZOPHYLLA SYAGRUS SCHIZOPHYLLA syagrus schizophylla

 

RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI
NORFOLK ISLAND PALM

 


SINGLE TRUNK - CROWN SHAFTED
SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

Rhopalostylis baueri, the Norfolk Island Palm, is native to two locations.  Norfolk Island (an Australian island) is the home of the classic Rhopalostylis baueri but there is also a population in Kermadec Islands, a New Zealand territory.  The population of Rhopalostylis baueri on Norfolk Island is near the elevated center of the island, rare elsewhere.  In this locality, it is threatened by rodents that eat the seeds and young seedlings.  In the Kermadec location, this species is found on Raoul Island.  It is more plentiful there because there have been efforts to eliminate the rat population.  In my experience, this species does best in less than full sun along the coast.  Half day morning sun is about perfect.  It has a cold tolerance into the low 20's F. and is being grown in the SF Bay area.  Anticipate a height typically of about 25 feet mature.  Shown below are our 15 gallon plants but we should have small as well.  The 8th photo is c/o Wikipedia.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $210


RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI  RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI  RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI 
RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI  RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI   
RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI  RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI wikipedia  RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI 

 

BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII
THE MADAGASCAR PLATEAU COCONUT PALM



MEDIUM SIZED SINGLE TRUNK
HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER - FULL SUN
SPECIAL SPECIAL ON LARGE 5 GALLON PLANTS

This species of exotic palm is from the island of Madagascar.  It is the third of three Beccariophoenix species described from this palm-loaded country.  It is so sought after because some feel that it's the prettiest species of the three.  And, because it may possess the best cold hardiness.  I've documented other Beccariophoenix species tolerating temperatures below 25 degrees at our nursery.  So, this species may survive in areas like San Francisco, Phoenix and Houston.  It grows to a height of about thirty feet and does not have a crown shaft.  Leaves are long and minimally curved.  The crown of leaves are densely placed - so it offers privacy and screening of neighbors.  Growth rate is medium in most areas and along the coast it likes sun.  This species is hard to find.  We are offering some large 5 gallon plants that are ready to go into 15g pots.  Heights in the pots are 4 to 4.5 feet.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON SIZE $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $125

Limited supplies available.  Two habitat photos by TS at RPS.  The last photo is our 15g size.  Of note, we even have some 36 inch boxes plants 12 to 14 feet tall.


Beccariophoenix alfredii 5g Beccariophoenix alfredii 5g Beccariophoenix alfredii 5g
Beccariophoenix alfredii 5g Beccariophoenix alfredii 5g Beccariophoenix alfredii 5g
bECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII ts rps Beccariophoenix alfredii TS RPS Beccariophoenix alfredii

 

COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA
A RARE OLD MAN PALM


NATIVE TO CUBA
SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

The palm species shown here is the more Coccothrinax crinita.  It is native to Cuba.  It gets the name “Old Man Palm” because the trunk is totally covered by long tan hairs that hang down like a beard.  For anyone who has grown one of the Old Man Palms, the one thing you'll agree on is how slow they are.  The 5 gallon plant shown here have taken about 7 years to produce.  Seedlings take about 4 years to produce a fan leaf.  One suffers through "blades of grass" for the and finally palmate leaves appear as shown here.  This is a dwarf species, unlikely to get over ten feet.  It loves sun and heat and is cold hardy somewhere into the mid-teens F. And, by the way, those fibers/hairs covering the trunk are its hallmark.  This is a rare species to find for sale.  We only have a handful of this size.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $150
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $125

Coccothrinax crinita 5g Coccothrinax crinita 5g Coccothrinax crinita 5g
Coccothrinax crinita 5g Coccothrinax crinita 5g Coccothrinax crinita 5g
Coccothrinax crinita Coccothrinax crinita Coccothrinax crinita

  

COCCOTHRINAX BARBADENSIS
MEDIUM SIZED, NARROW TRUNK


VERY "CUTE PALM" WITH GREEN OR SILVER GREEN LEAVES

SPECIAL NICE 2 GALLON SIZE

We at the nursery are very proud that we offer a good selection of these interesting New World fan palms.  Coccothrinax are native to the Caribbean region.  This species, C. baradensis, gets to heights of about 30 feet in many decades.  Leaf color is green to silver-green and trunks are typically six inches thick or a bit more.  This species loves full hot sun and is cold tolerant into the mid-twenties F.  Many are growing it with good success.  In pots, all Coccothrinax are painfully slow.  Our plants are grown from seed which we germinate.  After a 6 month wait, one gets one small green strap leaf.  It takes 2 to 3 more years to get a fan-type leaf.  Thus, it's taken us about six years to produce the 2g plants you see here.  We do have other sizes for sale and multiple other species of this genus.  In the ground they are much faster.

REGULAR PRICE 2G $80
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON $67.50

Remember:  Mention this Special when you purchase to get this discount.


Coccothrinax barbadensis   Coccothrinax barbadensis   Coccothrinax barbadensis  
Coccothrinax barbadensis   Coccothrinax barbadensis   Coccothrinax barbadensis  
Coccothrinax barbadensis Coccothrinax barbadensis Coccothrinax barbadensis

  

SABAL ETONIA
SMALL FAN PALM NATIVE TO FLORIDA



GETS SIX TO EIGHT FEET TALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE


This small fan palm is native to almost all areas of Florida.  It is different than Sabal palmetto in that it is smaller.  Although not quite as small as the Sabal louisiana below, it rarely gets to a height of about eight feet.  Leaves are green and the trunk is a bit stout.  It tolerates full sun or part day sun.  It is difficult to find.  In the fifth photo, it is the band plant that the staff is holding in his left hand (right hand is Sabal louisiana, an even smaller species).  Cold hardiness is at least 15 degrees F. or a bit lower. 

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $50


Sabal etonia band Sabal etonia band Sabal etonia band
Sabal etonia band Sabal etonia band Sabal etonia Rare Palm Seeds.com

  

CYCAD HYBRID - CYCAS REVOLUTA X DEBAOENSIS
INTERESTING AND FAIRLY COLD HARDY HYBRID


TAKES PART DAY SUN
NEVER TOO TALL - VERY RARE CROSS
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON SIZE PLANTS

With the introduction of the very rare Cycas debaoensis, it was just a matter of time before this cross was done.  It's between the Sago Palm (seed bearer with this cross) and the aforementioned debaoensis.  It is an interesting hybrid with bifurcation of the leaflets or leaf stems.  See photos below.  I'd recommend growing it in part day sun.  Cold tolerance should be into the upper teens F.  This hybrid has only been recently offered for sale.  I'm showing in the 3rd row of photos one picture of the C. revoluta followed by two of the C. debaoensis.

I anticipate it'll be a small to medium sized mature plants.  It's a great alternative to using the common
Cycas revoluta.  Leaf color will be green and there will be some spines of the leaf stems.  Sorry, but there are no reputable photos of this hybrid in a mature size available at this time.  I'm showing our five gallon size below.  Caudex size is about two to three inches.  I can't show a mature plant for you as I know of none around.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $150
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 5 GALLONS $130


These would be easy to mail order.   

 
CYCAS REVOLUTA X DEBAOENSIS CYCAS REVOLUTA X DEBAOENSIS CYCAS REVOLUTA X DEBAOENSIS
CYCAS REVOLUTA X DEBAOENSIS CYCAS REVOLUTA X DEBAOENSIS CYCAS REVOLUTA X DEBAOENSIS
CYCAS REVOLUTA CYCAS DEBAOENSIS

 

ENCEPHALARTOS NATALENSIS
TRANSKI FORM

MEDIUM TO LARGE GREEN CYCAD - THINNER LEAFLETS
SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT


Please read above where I introduced this South African species and commented that there were various "forms" native to different localities.  This variety is from a habitat in Transki.  Little is published about these plants or presented on the Internet.  From what I see, this variety has green leaflets that are thinner than other varieties and have less spination on the leaflets.  I anticipate mature size will be similar to the regular E. natalensis above.  The plant on special is in a 15g pot and has a caudex of about 6 inches.  Culture and cold hardiness should be comparable.  We have several available.  Sorry, I do not have nor can I find good photos of a mature specimen.  We only have one or two left. 

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $600
SPECIAL - 20% OFF UNTIL OCTOBER 1ST

Encephalartos natalensis transki form 15g 5 to 6 inches Encephalartos natalensis transki form 15g 5 to 6 inches Encephalartos natalensis transki form 15g 5 to 6 inches
Encephalartos natalensis transki form 15g 5 to 6 inches Encephalartos natalensis transki form 15g 5 to 6 inches Encephalartos natalensis transki form 15g 5 to 6 inches
Encephalartos natalensis transki form 15g 5 to 6 inches Encephalartos natalensis transki form 15g 5 to 6 inches Encephalartos natalensis transki form 15g 5 to 6 inches

 

BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS
INTERESTING THICK TRUNKED TROPICAL TREE

 

SNAKESKIN BARK ON TRUNK – THIN GREEN LEAFLETS
MEDIUM TO LARGE TREE MATURE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


About three decades ago I visited Seaborne Nursery up in the Lake Hodges area of San Diego County.  It has long since vanished as a nursery.  A fellow who ran this nursery, Bill Seaborne (now deceased) convinced me to try a few of this interesting species.  I planted them and within about five to ten years found they have the most peculiar, large and irregularly swollen trunks.  The leaflets are quite fine; but the trunk is massive.  It has a green snakeskin type of texture and is a fast growing tree.  The leaflets are narrow and a green color.  I have a few 15g trees and some 5g plants for sale.  The 15g size is shown here and on Special.  I am also showing you pictures of mature trees off the Internet.  This species is not known for flowers, but rather for its peculiar swollen trunk.  It can get to fifty feet tall, likes sun, and has a cold tolerance that is probably into the low 20's F.  The 15 gallon on sale are about 8 feet tall in their pots and too big for mail order.  For thelatter, consider our 5 gallon size which are in stock.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $175
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $155


Brachychiton rupestris 15g Brachychiton rupestis 15g Brachychiton rupestis 15g
Brachychiton rupestis 15g Brachychiton rupestis 15g
Brachychiton repestris Brachychiton repestris Brachychiton repestris

 

SCHEFFLERA TREE
UMBRELLA TREE


MEDIUM SIZED MATURE - GREEN LEAVES
SPECIAL LARGE & FULL 25 GALLON


There are two types of Schefflera.  On is a larger tree with larger leaves.  The other type is a dwarf with small leaves and leaflets.  The plant shown here is an "in-betweeners".  It's 8 to 10 feet tall n the pot and quite wide - 6 to 8 feet.  It's an ideal tree for privacy and can be shaped and trimmed liberally.  I'd anticipate a mature height of about 15 feet.  It takes full sun and is cold hardy well into the mid to lower 20's F.  We only have a few available.  The first two garden photos show the larger species Schefflera actinophylla.  The last photo is c/o Clemson University website.

REGULAR PRICE 25G $500
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $425


Schefflera 25 gallon J schefflera schefflera
schefflera schefflera schefflera
schefflera schefflera Schefflera Clemson Univ website

 

BILB ERGIA HALLELUHAY
SPOTTED SUN TOLERANT BROMELIAD

PINK HANGING BLOSSOMS - SPOTTED LEAVES
SPECIAL 5G CLUSTERS

Bilbergia are an easy to grow type of Bromeliad and many will tolerate coastal sun.  This variety has red leaves with a scattering of white spots.  They grow in as tubular fashion and freely suckering.  Thus, you get quite a good sized clump in a few years.  Mature height of the plant is typically about 2 feet.  Blossoms are pink and hand down from the individual plants.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON CLUMPS $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $70 


 
billbergia hallelujah 5g billbergia hallelujah 5g billbergia hallelujah 5g
billbergia hallelujah 5g billbergia hallelujah 5g billbergia hallelujah 5g
billbergia hallelujah 5g billbergia hallelujah 5g  

 

FRIDAY, 28 OCTOBER, 2022

CARYOTA GIGAS
"THAI MOUNTAIN GIANT", "KING KONG PALM", "BLACK STEM FISHTAIL"


COMPARISON WITH
CARYOTA URENS

Yes, this beautiful large palm from northern Thailand has been given a lot of common names.  I'm showing you today some boxed size plants of this species.  We also have 15g for sale.  But, I thought I'd make a few points about this plant that you may not know and make some comparisons to Caryota urens:

•It has an extremely thick fat trunk that can get up to three feet wide (see last photo).  This is much thicker than C. urens.
•Trunk height in Southern California is hardly ever over 35 feet, less than most of us expected.  C. urens can get over 60 feet with ease.
• It appears to tolerate full sun better than C. urens.  By this I mean it has less brown tipping on the leaflets
• It appears to have a shorter life span than expected, often blossoming in less than 15 years. This is less than C. urens.
• It has very wide and long leaves, up to fifteen feet in length and provides good shade underneath.  Caryota urens' leaves are smaller but still quite large.
• It is not as cold hardy as C. urens and will burn in the low 20's F.  But, most plants will survive and return from temperatures of 20 degrees f.
• It is quick growing but does not put on vertical height as fast as Caryota urens.
• If your plant doesn't look good, it's probably from your lack of giving it adequate water (if there's no cold burn)
• It is the most popular Fishtail Palm presently.  In the past, before this species introduction, C. urens was the most popular.  I think people really like the leaves and leaflet shape..

We have a great selection available and can ship smaller sizes up to 15 gallon plants.  Nursery photos shown here are only of Caryota gigas.


Caryota gigas Caryota gigas Caryota gigas
Caryota gigas Caryota gigas Caryota gigas
Caryota gigas Caryota gigas Caryota gigas

PRITCHARDIA MINOR IN SAN DIEGO
MATURE AND FRUITING FOR YEARS



THIN TRUNK, MEDIUM HEIGHT
ENABLES US TO OFFER YOU NURSERY PLANTS


I wanted to show you photographs of a mature Pritchardia minor that's thriving in central San Diego, CA.  For many years our nursery has been selling young plants that come from the seeds of this mother tree.  It is a magnificent specimen.  I'd estimate its height to be fifteen feet with a trunk diameter of eight inches.  Native to the Island of Kaui in HI, this tree is quite rare and grows at high elevation in locality.  It tolerates full sun here if you are not too far inland.  I've seen this species in habitat and the one shown in the first three rows of photos (San Diego) is taller than ones I've seen in the wild.  I figure its culture that made it this large.  The last row shows some photos of plants we have for sale and a specimen of this species in HI.  Although availability changes over time, we hope that we can continue to offer this unique species in the future.

Pritchardia minor san diego Pritchardia minor san diego Pritchardia minor san diego
Pritchardia minor san diego Pritchardia minor san diego Pritchardia minor san diego
Pritchardia minor san diego Pritchardia minor san diego Pritchardia minor san diego
Pritchardia minor san diego pritchardia martii pritchardia martii

 

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM


TALL, SUN LOVING SINGLE TRUNK SPECIES
ELEGANT WITH LONG CROWN SHAFT

TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD SIZED 15 GALLON SIZE

This super popular palm is native to south Florida and Cuba.  It gets a very tall trunk with a height of forty feet or more.  The crown shaft is long and a prominent green.  The base of the trunk is swollen just above the ground.  Often, you'll also see bulging in the mid-trunk.  It is a full sun palm and some are growing it in desert areas with success - in full sun. 

Cold tolerance is like a King Palm, about 25 degrees F.  The fifteen gallon on sale are about six to seven years old and about eight feet tall in their pot.  There's a shortage of this species on the market and they are difficult to find.  These are too big for mail order but we can deliver them.  If you need mail order, consider our smaller 5 gallon size.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON  $220

ROYSTONEA REGIA  ROYSTONEA REGIA  ROYSTONEA REGIA 
ROYSTONEA REGIA  ROYSTONEA REGIA  ROYSTONEA REGIA 
ROYSTONEA REGIA  ROYSTONEA REGIA  ROYSTONEA REGIA 

 

DYPSIS LUCUBENSIS
AKA DYPSIS MADAGASCARENSIS

TALL, THIN TRUNKED PINNATE PALM



SUCKERING & SINGLE TRUNK FORMS
FLUFFY, PLUMOSE LEAVES – THINNER TRUNKS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON – SUCKERING VARIETY

This species of palm is typically single trunk but there are also suckering forms.  It also goes by the name of Dypsis madagascarensis.  This post shows the suckering variety.  It is native to island of Nossi-Be off the coast of Madagascar.  It can reach heights of twenty to thirty feet.  It has leaves arranged in three ranks - "tristichous".   Trunk diameters of this suckering form are thinner than the single trunk form.  I'd estimate they'll be 5 to 8 inches thick and prominently ringed.  The crown shafts are a rusty-brown color and not elongated.  It is a difficult species to find nowadays.  I'd recommend growing it in full sun along the coast.  I'd estimate cold hardiness to be in the mid-twenties F. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $215

We only have a few of these left.
  Garden photos below first c/o PACSOA and secondly from Sri Lanka c/o Palmpedia.


 
Dypsis lucubensis suckering Dypsis lucubensis suckering Dypsis lucubensis suckering
Dypsis lucubensis suckering Dypsis lucubensis suckering Dypsis lucubensis suckering
Dypsis lucubens - madagascarensis PACSOA Dypsis lucubensis - madagascarensis Sri Lanka Palmpedia  

  

LIVISTONA SARIBUS
LARGE, DARK & HOOKED SPINES

 


MEDIUM TO TALL FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

This medium to tall fan palm is native to southeast Asia.  It can get to heights of thirty-five feet or more.  It is an interesting palm that is easy to grow and has a very ornamental leaf with deep divisions of the segments.  Its leaf segments almost make a complete circle.  Leaf color is green.  The spines on the petioles tend to be dark in color and dramatic, usually the thing most people remember most about this species.  Another interesting thing is that the seed fruit is blue in color as shown below.  It is a sun species and cold hardy into the mid to low-twenties.  The 15g are nicely sized.  Shipping is possible in a large box.  The last photo is by John Volk.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $200

Livistona saribus Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus 
Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus 
Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus john volk psst 
Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus john volk psst 

 

SABAL CAUSIARUM
LARGE TRUNKED TROPICAL FAN PALM

 

SMOOTH AND LIGHT COLORED TRUNK
SUPER COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This is one of my favorite Sabal species.  It's native to various Caribbean Islands including Puerto Rico and Cuba.  It can get to height of at least 35 feet and has a trunk that is smooth and a light tan to gray color.  Trunks are thick, up to about 30 inches.  Leaf color is blue-green.  Growth rate is good and it likes sun.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-teens F.  The 15g size shown below are nice.  We’re putting this size on sale.  I’m showing some mature plants below as well. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL $200


Sabal causiarum Sabal causiarum Sabal causiarum
Sabal causiarum Sabal causiarum Sabal causiarum
Sabal causiarum Sabal causiarum Sabal causiarum

 

PHOENIX ROEBELENII
THE PYGMY DATE PALM


NATURALLY A SINGLE TRUNK PALM
TEN DAY SALE ON SINGLE TRUNK PLANTS IN 15 GALLON SIZE

Most people are familiar with this species, the Pygmy Date Palm.  It is naturally a single trunks species.  But, they are usually sold as "triples" - three individual plants in the same pot - so often, that people think it's a suckering species.  And, 99% of plants are sold as a "multiples".  Over a few decades, this species can get to a height of over ten feet.  They are slow growing.  

Triples grow slower than singles.  This species is a type of Date Palm, so it does have spines on its stems.  Growth rate is medium to slow.  It likes full sun and is cold hardy to about 22 degrees F.  Shown here are some 15 gallon singles that we’re putting on sale.  They have about 2 feet of trunk and are at least 8 years old.  In the garden, some feel they are more attractive than the triples and really show off their petite size and soft appearance.  Limited numbers available.  BTW, we do have 15 gallon triples that are cheaper than the singles but are not as old or tall. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON SINGLES $220
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $195

Shipping for mail order would be expensive because of the plant size.


Phoenix roebellenii 15g single trunk Phoenix roebellenii 15g single trunk Phoenix roebellenii 15g single trunk
Phoenix roebellenii 15g single trunk Phoenix roebellenii 15g single trunk Phoenix roebellenii 15g single trunk
Phoenix roebellenii Phoenix roebellenii Phoenix roebellenii

  

CHAMAEDOREA TRUNKING RADICALIS
QUICK GROWING, SINGLE STEM



FAIRLY COLD HARDY - TOLERATE SUN
LOOK BETTER AS MULTIPLES
TEN DAY SPECIAL - FIVE GALLON MULTIPLES

As many of you may know, Chamaedorea radicalis is from Mexico.  The classic dwarf form only gets three to four feet tall.  The trunking form shown here easily can reach eight to ten feet.  Both are single trunk palms.  Both can tolerate a large amount of sun and some are growing them in full sun close to the ocean.  The trunking form is a very fast growing plant.  It has more narrow leaflets compared to the dwarf form.  Both have long male and female blossoms that are oriented upwards off the trunk.  On the dwarf form the blossoms often tower above the foliage. 

Cold tolerance is into the upper teens F.  On this species, over time we feel that multiple plants planted together in the garden look better.  Shown below are both single and multiples.  I'm showing the singles so you can get a feel for their mature height.  We’re putting them on sale.  Note:  We have limited numbers available with this sale.  Some of these are too tall to mail order.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE $110

Remember to mention this Special for your discount when you purchase.  Mail order possible.


Trunking Chamaedorea radicalis Trunking Chamaedorea radicalis Trunking Chamaedorea radicalis
Trunking Chamaedorea radicalis Trunking Chamaedorea radicalis
Trunking Chamaedorea radicalis Trunking Chamaedorea radicalis Trunking Chamaedorea radicalis

 

KENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS
A GREAT CROWN SHAFTED PALM
 

IDEAL FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
MEDIUM MATURE HEIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

I've discussed this great New Caledonian species before because it is such a good species for those of us in Southern California.  It comes from high elevation in its native New Caledonia habitat, is a good growing palm and can tolerate full sun easily along the coastal strip.  Its cold hardiness is down to about 23 degrees, better than the King Palm or Kentia Palm.  It has an average trunk diameter of eight to ten inches and a mature height of usually about thirty feet.  It can also be grown in part day sun or strong filtered light.  Shown here is the 5 gallon size we’re putting on specialGrowth rate on this species is good.  This species is highly recommended. 

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110

The 5 gallon size is shown in the first 5 photos.  The garden trees are growing in San Diego County.

Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis
Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis
Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis

 

BRAHEA SPECIES "SUPER SILVER"
NICE 5 GALLON PLANTS


BLUE WITH THINNER TRUNK THAT
B. ARMATA
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON PLANTS

Shown here is a 5 gallon plant of a Brahea species from Mexico that is presently known as "Brahea species Super Silver".   Undoubtedly someone will describe it in the near future.  Seeds have been available only twice.  These plants are from the first batch that came along.  It is a blue plant but doesn't show the blue until older.  It wants full hot sun and would be perfect for the desert.  I suspect the cold tolerance is similar to Brahea armata, about 15 degrees F.  But, compared to the later, this species trunk is much thinner and it is faster growing.  But, the blue color is just as intense.  Shown here is the 5g size which we're putting on Special.  Limited numbers.  Mature plant photo below c/o RPS.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $115ST


Remember:  Mention this Special to get your Blog Only discount.


Brahea species super silver Brahea species super silver Brahea species super silver
Brahea species super silver Brahea species super silver bRAHEA SUPER SILVER ts rps

 

RAVENEA HILDEBRANDTII
SEMI-DWARF PINNATE COMORO ISLAND PALM

 


VERY HARD TO FIND SPECIES – TO EIGHT FEET TALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This endangered semi-dwarf palm species is from the Comoro Islands, close to Madagascar.  It has a very thin trunk. Although reports of twenty foot palms in habitat exist, in most domestic gardens don't expect anything over ten feet in a lifetime.  Trunk diameter is two to three inches.  Leaf size is three to four feet.  Most have grown this species in part day sun or filtered light.  However, I have one customer growing it well in full sun.  Cold hardiness is in the mid-twenties F.

Below I am showing our offering of 5 gallon plants which we have available and are putting on a Ten Day Special.  This palm does fine in Southern California and is the ultimate of pinnate leaf palms where "short" is needed.  I've shown below several shots of mature garden specimens to illustrate this species height. 

REGULAR PRICE 5G $150
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE IN 5 GALLON $130

Remember:  Mention this Special for this reduced price when you buy!

Ravenea hildebrandtii Ravenea hildebrandtii Ravenea hildebrandtii
Ravenea hildebrandtii Ravenea hildebrandtii Ravenea hildebrandtii
Ravenea hildebrandtii Ravenea hildebrandtii Ravenea hildebrandtii

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX PURPUREA
THE PURPLE CROWN SHAFT KING PALM

 


VERY BEAUTIFUL - GOOD GROWER
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON SIZE

The native home of Archontophoenix purpurea is the Mt. Lewis mountain range in Queensland, Australia.  This species is known for the purple color to the crown shaft.  It is found at an elevation up to 4000 feet.  Mature height is quoted to be over fifty feet, but in habitat and culture I didn't see one this tall.  Cold hardiness is about 25 degrees F.  It takes full coastal sun.  The degree of purple in the crown shaft is variable but never "lollipop" purple.  The underside of the leaves is silver and there is ramenta hairs only on this side.  On younger plants the leaf bases and leaf stem tend to have a yellow color. 

I'm showing our 1g size (first 5 photos below) which we're putting on a Ten Day Special.  These are very large plants for their pots and either single or multiple (more than one per pot).  Also available are large 5 and 15g sizes.  Further below you'll see our 5 gallon size. 

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $57.50

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase to get this discount. 


Archontophoenix purpurea 1g singles multiples Archontophoenix purpurea 1g singles multiples Archontophoenix purpurea 1g singles multiples
Archontophoenix purpurea 1g singles multiples Archontophoenix purpurea 1g singles multiples Archontophoenix purpurea 1g singles multiples
Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX PURPUREA
THE PURPLE CROWN SHAFT KING PALM

 

VERY BEAUTIFUL - GOOD GROWER
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

SEE SPECIES DESCRIPTION ABOVE

This post is for our 5g size.  We also have nice 15g's as well.  These 5g are about 2 years older than the one gallons.  They can be mail ordered.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100

Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea
Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea

 

CHAMAEDOREA SCHIPPII
AN ALMOST UNKNOWN AND NEVER AVAILABLE SPECIES

UNDERSTORY PINNATE SUCKERING PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON SIZE

Taxonomically, this species of Chamaedorea is an accepted species.  When I got started in palms about 44 years ago, you could occasionally find one available but you really had to seek it out.  Then they disappeared from the market.  I have a friend with a mature matched and sexed pair of them who set seeds last year.  I haven't this species for sale for at least 20 years.  No one has them.  We're offering them in a small size and have very few available.

This is a suckering green leaf understory species of Chamaedorea.  They get a mature height of twelve to fourteen feet and have an appearance similar to C. costaricana.  But, the leaves are longer and the trunks are thicker.  Trunks remain vertical and don't usually lean.  This species has historically been used to make some of the more interesting Chamaedorea hybrids including the famous "Irving Cantor" cross.  They were chosen for hybridization because of their strong vertical trunks.  Cold tolerance is into the twenties F. 

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON $80
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS RARE PALM IN 2 GALLON SIZE $67.50


Remember:  Limited numbers and mention this Blog Only Special to get this price.


Chamaedorea schippii Chamaedorea schippii Chamaedorea schippii
Chamaedorea schippii Chamaedorea schippii Chamaedorea schippii

 

ENCEPHALARTOS FEROX
SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD



STUNNING RED OR ORANGE CONES
GREEN HOLLY FERN - LIKE LEAFLETS

TEN DAY SPECIAL OLDER BAND SIZE PLANTS


This South African cycad is perhaps best known for two things:  It can grow in shady conditions and the cones (especially the female cone) are red.  The cone color varies from fire engine red to orange.  Female cones seem to be more colorful.  The leaflets look like a holly fern.  Right along the coast, this species can take almost full sun and look good.  But, most people grow it in part day sun or filtered light.  From a seedling, it takes about ten years in the ground to get a big, coning sized plant.  Cold tolerance is into the low 20's F.  We’re offering our older band size on special.  Ages of these are at least 4 years.  Ideally, they should be repotted into a larger container.  These are easy to ship within the U.S



REGULAR PRICE OLDER BAND SIZE $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $65



Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox
Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox
Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox female cone
Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox

 

CERATOZAMIA KUESTERIANA
SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED CYCAD

 
COLORFUL EMERGING NEW LEAVES

INLAND FILTERED LIGHT OR COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE AS SHOWN

This attractive cycad comes from the Sierra Mountain Range in Mexico near Tamaulipas.  There is grows among overhead oak trees.  It is a small to medium sized plant, perhaps at most getting a four foot tall caudex.  Leaf length is four to five feet.  Leaflets are long and narrow, coming to a point.  Leaflet color is green.  But, newly emerging leaves are a brown-red as shown below.  With the 8th photo by Ian Edwards below, you can see how attractive a new swirl of leaves can be.  Petioles can be smooth or armed with small spines.

This is an easy to grow species.  It can take coastal full sun but inland demands filtered light.  Cold tolerance is to the low 20's F.  This species is being grown in northern CA and in some other states where they see cooler weather.  I’m showing you two plants in citrus pots with new reddish-brown emerging leaves.  Caudex sizes are 3 to 3.5 inches.  Soil should be well draining in the garden.  This species also makes an attractive containerized patio plant. 

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE CITRUS POT $385
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT THIS SIZE $325

Remember to mention this Special at the time of purchase to get this discounted price. 

Ceratozamia kuesteriana cit pot 3 and 3.5 inches Ceratozamia kuesteriana cit pot 3 and 3.5 inches Ceratozamia kuesteriana cit pot 3 and 3.5 inches
Ceratozamia kuesteriana cit pot 3 and 3.5 inches Ceratozamia kuesteriana cit pot 3 and 3.5 inches Ceratozamia kuesteriana cit pot 3 and 3.5 inches
Ceratozamia kuesteriana cit pot 3 and 3.5 inches Ceratozamia kuesteriana Ian Edwards Pacsoa Ceratozamia kuesteriana

 

DIOON SPECIES "RIO VERDE"
MEXICAN CYCAD WITH LONG LEAVES

FULL SUN SPECIES – NEVER SUPER LARGE
FOR A CYCAD, FAIRLY COLD HARDY CYCAD
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZED PLANTS

This surprisingly cold hardy Mexican cycad is known for its longer leaves.  Compared to an ordinary Dioon edule, it has much longer leaves.  These leaves have a somewhat yellow petiole and leaf color is green or blue-green.   And, there's an extra treat: new leaves flush an interesting pink-green color.  This is a slow growing species.  Trunks rarely get to two feet.  They cluster freely. 

It is a sun species that is cold tolerant into the upper teens F.  It tolerates heat and full hot sun.  Shown here are our citrus pot sized sized plants that are about 8-9 years old.  Caudexes are about here inches.  The first seven photos below show these plants.  I'm also showing a few other nursery plants to demonstrate leaf color.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE CITRUS POT PLANTS $350
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZED CITRUS POT PLANTS $275

You must mention this Blog Only Special to get this price when purchasing
.

 

Dioon edule var rio verde citrus pot caudex 3 inches Dioon edule var rio verde citrus pot caudex 3 inches Dioon edule var rio verde citrus pot caudex 3 inches
Dioon edule var rio verde citrus pot caudex 3 inches Dioon edule var rio verde citrus pot caudex 3 inches Dioon edule var rio verde citrus pot caudex 3 inches
Dioon edule var rio verde citrus pot caudex 3 inches Dioon edule variety rio verde Dioon edule variety rio verde

 

SUPER DESIRABLE ENCEPHALARTOS HYBRID
ENCEPHALARTOS TRANSVENOSUS X WOODII
PRETTIEST MATURE OF THE WOODII HYBRIDS

 

FULL SUN CYCAD – MEDIUM TO LARGE MATURE SIZE
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT

As many of you know, Encephalartos woodii is an extinct plant in the wild and domestically only males are known to exist.  This pure form come only from offsets from existing plants.  It is one of the most sought after and coveted of all cycads.  Most crosses are made by using male pollen from E. woodii and crossing it with E. natalensis.  But, when it’s crossed with E. transvenosus, the offspring are much prettier with wider and more appealing leaflets.  These F2 hybrid was made from domestic plants in Southern California.  It’s good in full sun along the coast and will have a cold hardiness of 22 to 25 degrees F.  The actual plant on special is in a 7 gallon pot (shippable) with a caudex that is 5 inches thick - see first 3 photos below.  We only have a few of these but am putting this particular cycad on a Ten Day Special.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $950
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $795

In the first row of photos are the plant photos of the wooodii hybrid on Special.  The second row is E. transvenosus (female) and the third E. woodii (pollen donor)..


Encephalartos transvenosus x woodii 53 7 gallon 5 inches Encephalartos transvenosus x woodii 53 7 gallon 5 inches Encephalartos transvenosus x woodii 53 7 gallon 5 inches
Encephalartos transvenosus Encephalartos transvenosus Encephalartos transvenosus
Encephalartos woodii Encephalartos woodii  Encephalartos woodii 

 

SILVER BRAKE FERN
PTERIS CRETICA



TWO COLORED LEAVES
LIKES FILTERED LIGHT - NOT TOO TALL
SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


The hallmark of this fern are the green and white leaflets.  There are various varieties of this species.  On some the lighter color is a white, others sort of yellow and also some with silver inner portions of the leaflets.  Leaves come from crawling rhizomes and are about 12 to 18 inches long.  This species like ample moisture, filtered light and is cold tolerance to a bit below a freeze.  We are offering 5 gallons on sale.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS 5 GALLON $55


Silver Brake Fern Pteris cretica Silver Brake Fern Pteris cretica Silver Brake Fern Pteris cretica
Silver Brake Fern Pteris cretica Silver Brake Fern Pteris cretica Silver Brake Fern Pteris cretica

 

MONSTERA DELICIOSA
“SWISS CHEESE PHILODENDRON”


LARGE GREEN LEAVES WITH HOLES IN THE LEAVES
CLIMBING SPECIES

TEN DAY SPECIAL 7 & 15 GALLON SIZE

Monstera deliciosa is a climbing tropical plant native to areas from southern Mexico down through Latin America.  It climbs up tree trunks and can get up to 100 feet into the canopy.  It has green leaves with horizontal splits/openings.  A particular form of this plant doesn’t just have splits but rather holes/openings in the leaves.  The plants on sale are this latter type.  The trunks attached to whatever is near (tree trunks, fences, posts, etc) and are about an inch thick.  Trunks put out attaching roots for support.  Leaves can be much larger than shown here when mature.  They can easily reach two to three feet in width.  It is super easy to grow.  Just plant it next to almost anything.  We’re putting our limited numbers of 15 gallon and 7 gallon on sale.  The first six photos shown the 15 gallon size.  In terms of plant size, both containers have the same size plants.

REGULAR PRICE 7 & 15 GALLON $180
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE SIZES $157.50

The photos below are of the split leaf Philodendron, not the "Swiss Cheese" variety.


Monstera deliciosa Monstera deliciosa Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa Monstera deliciosa Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa Monstera deliciosa

 

MAIDENHAIR FERN
GENUS ADIANTUM

 

NICE FULL PLANTS
WATER LOVING SHADE FERN
TEN DAY SPECIAL FULL 2G PLANTS

The genus Adiantum or Maiden Hair Fern contains many species and cultivars.  If you Google the genus, you'll see all sorts of different looking plants.  What I'm showing here is the plant on the West Coast that we consider to be the "classic Maidenhair Fern".  They are in 2 gallon pots.  They never get over two feet tall, like water and are best grown in filtered light. 

REGULAR PRICE TWO GALLON $45
TEN DAY SPECIAL SPECIAL 2 GALLON $37.50

Remember to mention this Special.  Mail order is possible on this size.  The last photo shows a close up of a garden plant.

Maiden Hair Fern Maiden Hair Fern Maiden Hair Fern
Maiden Hair Fern Maiden Hair Fern Maiden Hair Fern

 

ALOCASIA LOW RIDER
TRUE DWARF GREEN HYBRID

NEVER OVER 2 FEET TALL - FAIRLY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This dwarf Alocasia is a hybrid of Alocasia portora - which is much taller and larger than this hybrid.  Mature height is typically 18 inches.  Leaf stems are striped as you can see on the photo.   Leaf color is green.  This plant tolerates partial or perhaps full sun along the coast or limited sun / strong filtered light in interior areas.  It is fairly cold hardy and winters over in zone 7B and above.  We're putting 5 gallon on sale.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS 5 GALLON SIZE $60

This size can be shipped mail order.


Alocasia low rider Alocasia low rider Alocasia low rider
Alocasia low rider Alocasia low rider Alocasia low rider
  Alocasia low rider  

 

ALOCASIA MAYAN MASK
GREEN EXOTIC WITH UPRIGHT LEAVES


MEDIUM HEIGHT MATURE - TAKES COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


This hybrid variety of Alocasia is known for its large upright leaves that are green on the upper dorsal side with purple undersides.  Both sides show prominent yellow veins. It is easy to grow but does best if you are in a freeze-free area.  It likes good draining soil, average water.  But, you back off on water during winter's cold.  Mature height is six to eight feet.  Leaves can easily get three feet long.  On the coast it tolerates full sun or part sun.  Far inland areas (frost free) would be bright filtered light or a small amount of sun.  On sale are our 15 gallon size as shown n the first seven photos.  The last photo is c/o the National Gardening Association where this species is being used as a patio plant.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $195

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $175


Alocasia mayan mask 15g Alocasia mayan mask 15g Alocasia mayan mask 15g
Alocasia mayan mask 15g Alocasia mayan mask 15g Alocasia mayan mask 15g
Alocasia mayan mask 15g Alocasia Mayan mask by National Gardening Assoc.  

 

EPIDENDRON ORCHID
PINK BLOSSOM

REEDSTEM TYPE TERRESTRIAL ORCHID
HARD TO FIND PINK-PURPLE COLOR
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON SIZE

The family of Epidendron Orchids are loaded with species/varieties of lots of different colors.  These include pink, purple, orange, red, white and yellow.  We have an assortment of blossom colors in one to five gallon pots.  Shown is a 5 gallon with pink flowers.  All sizes and colors are on sale.  All are easy to grow.  These plants have reed-like stems, most of which will blossom in summer.  Leaves are thick and small and plants can be divided in the future to easily add to other areas of the garden.  They'll take coastal full sun or strong filtered light.  Some sun is needed for flowering.  You can plant these right in the soil.  They are cold tolerant into the mid-twenties F.  BTW, other than the orange blossoming type, call the other colors are difficult to find.  You’ll love them in your garden or in a pot.  Once again, we'd give a discount on any size or color of these.  Shown is a 5 gallon pink.  Trust that they are a definite pink although the photos show an orange-pink.

REGULAR PRICE THESE FIVE GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $110

The pink 5g are in the first two rows of photos.  The last row is of smaller purple.


Epidendron Orchid pink Epidendron Orchid pink Epidendron Orchid pink
Epidendron Orchid pink Epidendron Orchid pink Epidendron Orchid pink
Epidendron Orchid 1g pink-purple in bloom Epidendron Orchid 1g pink-purple in bloom Epidendron Orchid 1g pink-purple in bloom

 

WEDNESDAY, 26 OCTOBER, 2022 

BIRDS NEST ANTHURIUM
A PERFECT UNDERSTORY COMPANION PLANT



NEVER OVER ABOUT SIX FEET TALL
LEATHERY, DARK GREEN LEAVES


Enthusiast are always looking for attractive companion plants that don't get too big.  Shown here is what's called the "Birds Nest" Anthurium.  Most of these plants are felt to either be the species Anthurium hookeri or a hybrid of it.  They are good for filtered light situations and rarely get over six feet tall.  The leaves are long, wide and very thick to the touch.  Their leaf surface is wavy.  The first plants shown are very old 20g.  You can see they've formed trunk with some aerial roots.  Next I'm showing our 5g.  This is the size most people buy.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F.  Flowers are red, as are the tiny seeds.   These plants are real winners.

Birds Nest Anthurium Birds Nest Anthurium Birds Nest Anthurium
Birds Nest Anthurium Birds Nest Anthurium Birds Nest Anthurium
Birds Nest Anthurium Birds Nest Anthurium Birds Nest Anthurium
Birdsnest Anthurium
Specimen in garden
Birds Nest Anthurium plant places.com website
Photo by Plant Places Website
Birds Nest Anthurium wikipedia
Photo c/o Wikipedia

 

THE GENUS BECCARIOPHOENIX
THREE DIFFERENT SPECIES
ALL THREE TYPES AVAILABLE AT THE NURSERY

It was not too long ago when Beccariophoenix was felt to be a monotypic genus with only one species.  Now it is recognized that there are three different species:

Beccariophoenix species "windows", presently called Beccariophoenix fenestralis. 
 
Beccriophoenix madagascarensis, previously known as "Beccariophoenix no windows"

Beccariophoenix alfredii, a more recently named species.

All three are single trunk, medium to large plants from Madagascar.  Along the coast, all can take full sun.  Cold tolerance is certainly into the mid-twenties F.  Of the three, Beccariophoenix madagascarensis is probably the easiest to grow.  It is very slow growing.  But, some feel that B. alfredii is equally easy and may have more cold hardiness.  "Windows" is exciting because of the leaf openings, thus the name.  But, over time, these windows are lost and it becomes a pinnate palm. 

Shown here are pictures of all three.  We have various sizes for sale from small to large on all three species.



Beccariophoenix madagascarensis
Beccariophoenix madagascarensis
Beccariophoenix madagascarensis
Beccariophoenix madagascarensis
Beccariophoenix alfredii
Beccariophoenix alfredii
Beccariophoenix windows
Beccariophoenix "windows"
Beccariophoenix Wikipedia
Beccariophoenix probably "windows"
Beccariophoenix windows
Beccariophoenix "windows"
Beccariophoenix
Beccariophoenix probably '"windows"
Beccariophoenix alfredii TS at RPS
Beccariophoenix alfredii by TS at RPS
Beccariophoenix no windows
Beccariophoenix madagascarensis
Beccariophoenix fenestralis
Beccariophoenix fenestralis
Beccriophoenix no windows
Beccariophoenix madagascarensis
Beccariophoenix alfredii TS at RPS
Beccariophoenix alfredii by TS at RPS

 

DYPSIS DECARYI
THE TRIANGLE PALM


MEDIUM MATURE HEIGHT
THREE SIDED COLORFUL CROWN SHAFT  LOVES HOT SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL VERY LARGE 24 INCH BOX SIZE

This Madagascar palm is known as the "Triangle Palm" because the crown shaft has three flat sides.  It gets to a mature height of about 22 feet in 3 decades.  It loves heat and sun.  Leaves are a gray-green color and there is prominent speckling in the inner crown with dark colors.  It is slow growing.  It has a cold tolerance of about 24 degrees F.  Be aware that this palm doesn’t do well in shade and doesn’t want to be shaded out by overhead trees.  The boxed plants shown below are about as big as you can plant without heavy equipment.  Their height is ten to twelve feet by estimate.  Delivery is available.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 24 INCH BOX THIS SIZE $650
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE NICE 24 INCH BOX SIZE $575

Mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.  We also have 5g and some other sizes available.


Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi
Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi
Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi

 

MULE PALM
BUTIA X SYAGRUS (QUEEN PALM)



MEDIUM SIZE MATURE HYBRID PALM
SUPER COLD HARDY - TO ABOUT 16 DEGREES
TEN DAY SPECIAL SQUAT 25G SIZE

This popular inter-generic hybrid palm was probably first created by a man made cross of both parents about a hundred years ago.  It has been given a trade name of  "Butiagrus nabonnandii" but most people call it the Mule Palm.  The latter name is utilized because it's been found on most specimens to have sterile fruit or no fruit at all.   Any seeds formed almost always won't germinate to grow a new palm.  Butia capitata is a monoecious species.  This means that flower stocks have both male and female flowers.

To produce Mule Palm plants, it takes a tremendous amount of work to viable and true seeds.  On the seed producing Butia flowerstock, all the male flowers must be meticulously removed manually to prevent self-pollination by itself.  Only after this can the Queen pollen but put onto the receptive Butia blossoms.  This takes a lot of experience, effort and time.  This is one of the reasons this hybrid is so rare and usually pricey.

Mature height is up to thirty feet, much shorter than the Queen Palm.  But, cold hardiness is better than a Queen as well.  It'll take temperatures down to about 16 degrees F. This species prefers a bright sun location and can be grown in the desert in full sun. 

On special are our 25g plants.  They are at least 10 feet tall in their pots, grown in sun.  They are ready for planting.  We do have some 15g available (limited numbers) but none smaller presently. 

REGULAR PRICE 25 GALLON SIZE $700
TEN DAY SPECIAL $625

Remember:  Mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.

Mule Palm Mule Palm Mule Palm
Mule Palm Mule Palm Mule Palm
Mule Palm Butia x Jubaea Mule Palm Butia x Jubaea Mule Palm TS RPS

 

HOWEA FORSTERIANA
THE KENTIA PALM



REALLY LARGE SINGLE TRUNK 25 GALLON PLANTS
TEN TO TWELVE FEET TALL - 10 INCH THICK BASES
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 25 GALLON SINGLE PLANTS

Howea forsteriana, the popular Kentia Palm, is native to Lord Howe Island.  There it lives at lower elevations.  At higher elevations up the mountains one sees Howea belmoreana and Hedyscepe.  The Kentia does great here in So California.   It is a single trunk species that is often grown as a "multiple" with several plants in the same pot.  It does NOT sucker.  Along the coast it takes full sun or part day sun.  Far inland, filtered light is needed.   Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F.  Mature height in sun is usually about thirty feet in 30 years.  Shown here is are examples of absolutely good sized 25 gallon palms.  These have been outdoor grown and are about twelve years old.  Standing next to them, most are about ten feet tall or more with 8 to 12 inch bases (ground diameter).  All are singles - not multipoles.  They are so nice that some are considering using them as a larger house plant.  We have various sizes of the Kentias for sale from small to large.  They are great patio palms.  Smaller plan ( 5 gallon ) can be mail ordered.  Bigger plants usually require delivery. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE NICE 25 GALLON $625
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE25 GALLON $550

Be aware we have limited numbers available and these will sell out this week.  The first garden photo is by Kerikeri.


Click here for an article on this species from our website


Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana
Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana
Howea-forsteriana Howea-forsteriana

 

CHAMAEDOREA WOODSONIANA
TALL, THICK TRUNK, BEAUTIFUL GREEN PINNATE PALM

 

DOES BEST IN SHADE – STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This is a very large, single trunk species that is native to a long range, spanning from Mexico into the northern parts of South America.  It is very sought after by enthusiasts and is known as one of the tallest of all Chamaedoreas - reaching heights of possibly over forty feet.  The trunk has a prominent crownshaft and is four inches thick or more.  It's leaves are four to five feet long with a prominent petiole.  Leaf color is a deep green and, in cross section, the leaves are slightly keeled.  In Southern California, this species prefers shade or a bit of sun.  It has been said that this species cannot take a freeze.  More recent reports suggest this species can tolerate temperatures into the upper 20's F.  It is known to be growing in the San Francisco Bay area.  It is a quick grower and sometimes the base of the trunk is swollen.  Shown is our 15g size on sale.  We have limited numbers available.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $210

Note:  We only have a few available and they’ll be gone soon.


Chamaedorea woodsoniana Chamaedorea woodsoniana Chamaedorea woodsoniana
Chamaedorea woodsoniana Chamaedorea woodsoniana Chamaedorea woodsoniana
Chamaedorea woodsoniana Chamaedorea woodsoniana Chamaedorea woodsoniana

 

RHAPIDOPHYLLUM HYSTRIX
THE NEEDLE PALM

WORLD'S MOST COLD HARDY PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLD FIFTEEN GALLON SIZE

There is no doubt in my mind that this species is the most cold tolerant of any palm species.  It is native to the southeastern United States with native habitats stretching from South Carolina down to northern Florida and into Alabama and Mississippi.  There are reports of this species tolerating below zero degrees F.  Now, this doesn't mean that you can grow it in Michigan.  But, in areas that see significant cold such as North Carolina, central Texas or even New Mexico, this species might work for you.

It is a suckering fan palm and known as the "Needle Palm" because it forms dark colored, protuberant needles on the trunk.  One photo below shows the spines.  In sun the leaf color is a silver green with more silver underneath.  In shade the color gets dark green, reminiscent of a  Rhapis Palm.  Trunks are usually under three feet tall and four to six inches thick.  But, because the leaves come upwards, the overall height of the plant can be six to seven feet or taller.  They can get a bit bushy.  The common name of “Needle Palm” comes from the fact that the stubby trunks have long dark colored needles – reminiscent of a knitting needle.  This is a very slow growing species that slowly crawls the ground by suckering.  These are rare to find for sale.  We're putting very old 15g on special. 

REGULAR PRICE 15G $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15G $220

I only have a few of these.  They are massively big for a 15g plant and suckering like crazy.  If you want a more affordable size, we do have 5g plants for sale.  The 15 gallon are shown in the first 7 photos below. 

Rhapidophyllum hystrix Rhapidophyllum hystrix Rhapidophyllum hystrix
Rhapidophyllum hystrix Rhapidophyllum hystrix Rhapidophyllum hystrix
Rhapidophyllum hystrix Rhapidophyllum hystrix Rhapidophyllum hystrix

 

VEITCHIA ARECINA
EXOTIC MEDIUM TO TALL PINNATE SUN PALM


CAN BE GROWN IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
RARE SPECIES - SELDOM SEE FOR SALE
TEN DAY SPECIAL TRIPLE 15G SIZE

We have a limited number of triples of this species - three plants in one pot.  This is like you so often see with King Palms.  Inherently, this is a single trunk, crown shafted pinnate palm native to Vanuatu, Fiji and Tonga.  In the wild, plants get to over 75 feet tall.  In So California it is more typical to see one to 30 to 40 feet.  They have a light colored crown shaft, speckled dark or black color near the inner crown area and sometimes on the leaf stems.  Leaves are six to eight feet long and leaflet tips are pointed or slightly blunted.  The trunk is narrow for a tall palm.

Shown here are triple 15g plants which we're putting on special.  There are quite a few people who are growing this species in the coastal strip in our area.   

REGULAR PRICE 15G $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $220

Please mention this Blog Only Special prior to purchase.

Veitchia arecina 15g triple Veitchia arecina 15g triple Veitchia arecina 15g triple
Veitchia arecina 15g triple Veitchia arecina 15g triple Veitchia arecina 15g triple
Veitchia arecina Veitchia arecina Veitchia arecina

 

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE REGULAR LADY PALM



ONE OF THE BEST INTERIOR PALMS
ALSO GREAT UNDERSTORY GARDEN PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 15G SIZE

We have an assortment of Lady Palms which are near perfect - almost as nice as the expensive ones we bring in out of Hawaii.  But, they are locally grown and better priced.  And, we are offering them on special.  Have you ever wondered why you hardly ever see Rhapis on sale?  It's because they are super slow growing.  The plants shown here are eight, maybe ten years old.  Therefore, growers have little motivation to sell them cheap.  The plants shown here are nice enough for a bank or hotel lobby, a professional office or even your living room. 

Rhapis excelsa
is native to Asia and typically doesn't get much over 8 feet tall in a pot.  They do great in shady locations of the garden or inside the home.  They are a very nice patio plant.  Cold hardiness is about 20 degrees F.  They want low dose fertilizer.  Too much fertilizer will burn them.  The plants on special here are 15g size, very full with lots of canes.  They won't last long.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 15G $400
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15G $300

Important:  Mention this Blog Only Offering for this price when you purchase.  Note, limited supply available.


Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa
Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa
Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa
Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa

 

CRYOSOPHILA STAURACANTHA
SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED TROPICAL FAN PALM


SILVER UNDERSIDE TO THE LEAVES
MODIFIED SPINES ON TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This single trunk fan palm is native to Southern Mexico and parts of Central America.  It can get up to a height of 25 feet but most garden specimens are under 15 feet.  Two things are quite noteworthy:  First, the undersides of the leaves are a silver-white.  A picture below of a nursery plant shows this.  Secondly, the trunk is narrow and covered with "modified" spines.  They are not real sharp and are not true spines.  The dorsal side of the leaves is green.  This palm likes strong filtered light and right on the coast may take part day sun.  Cold tolerance is estimated to be in the high 20's F.  Growth rate is medium.  The garden photo by Tobias Spanner shows a near mature tree.  You have to have an overhead crown of leaves to really see the silver color.  The last photo is a 15g plant at the nursery.

REGULAR 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110

Remember to mention this Special for your discount when you purchase
Our 5g size are probably bigger presently than shown.

Cryosophila stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha
Cryosophila stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha
Cryosophila stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha TS Rps Cryosophila stauracantha

 

RAVENEA RIVULARIS
THE MAJESTY PALM


LARGE PALM WITH A THICK CLEAN TRUNK
FAST GROWING - LIKES WATER AND FERTILIZER
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


Well grown, the Majesty Palm is a very attractive and fast growing palm from Madagascar.  It got a bad rap initially because people didn't water them enough and rarely fed them.  This resulted in bleached out leaf color and anemic appearing palms.  But, given adequate water and a balanced fertilizer with mircroelements, they are easy to grow.  Mature height is over 40 feet.  The trunk is clean and tapers as you look up the trunk.  Leaf color is green and leaves are un-armed.  Cold tolerance is into the twenties F.  Full sun along the coast is preferred.  They can be used as an interior palm.  I have one in my garden with about 30 feet of trun.

We're putting our 5 gallons on sale. These were grown locally from seeds.
Remember to mention this Blog Only Special if you chose to get this species.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $95


Ravenea rivularis Ravenea rivularis Ravenea rivularis
Ravenea rivularis Ravenea rivularis Ravenea rivularis
Ravenea rivularis Ravenea rivularis Ravenea rivularis

 

CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
THE FLAME THROWER PALM
NEW RED EMERGING LEAF


DARK GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


What good fortune is it that New Caledonia can claim to be the home of all Chambeyronia.  Included is this species, C. macrocarpa.  It is a slow growing, pinnate, crown shafted palm that gets to a height of about 30 feet.  It has a dark green to green-black crown shaft.  Compare this to C. hookeri above with it's yellow crown shaft.  Leaves are wide, thick and leathery to the touch.  With good culture, maybe you can get three new leaves a year.  About one in twenty plants fail to throw a new red leaf - rather, it remains green.  This is just bad luck and there's no way to predict which will do this.  Shown here are 5 gallon plants we're putting on sale.  We do have larger and smaller sizes available.  Coastal sun is tolerated although strong filtered light is ok for most areas.  This is a great garden palm.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110


Just mention this special when you buy.  I thank TS at RPS for usage of his photo below.

 
CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
Chambeyronia by TS RPS  Chambeyronia macrocarpa  Chambeyronia macrocarpa

 

HOWEA FORSTERIANA
THE KENTIA PALM



GREAT PATIO OR INTERIOR PALM - OR IN THE GARDEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SINGLES

Howea forsteriana, the popular Kentia Palm, is native to Lord Howe Island.  There it lives at lower elevations.  At higher elevations up the mountains one sees Howea belmoreana and Hedyscepe.  The Kentia does great here in So California.   It is a single trunk species that is often grown as a "multiple" with several plants in the same pot.  It does NOT sucker.  Along the coast it takes full sun or part day sun.  Far inland, filtered light is needed.   Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F.  Mature height in sun is usually about thirty feet in 30 years.  We’re putting very nice 5 gallon plants on special.  These plants are singles - not multiples.  These can be mail ordered.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $100

Remember to mention this Blog Special at the time of purchase for this discounted price.


Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana
Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana
Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana

 

BASSELINIA PANCHERI
RARE SINGLE TRUNK EXOTIC PALM FROM NEW CALEDONIA



MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - DARK OR BLACK CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON PLANTS

This super exotic single trunk pinnate palm is native to New Caledonia and is being grown by some enthusiasts in Sothern California.  It is very slow growing and has a mature height of eight to ten feet.  The crown shaft is often dark in color, sometimes speckled or has faint linear lines.  The trunk is 2 to 4 inches and leaflets are wide.  Leaves have the appearance of being solid but they are divided into wide leaflets.  This palm should be grown in filtered light.  It has a cold tolerance down to about a freeze.  Also understand that this species is very slow growing - so be patient.  We're offering three year old 2 gallon plants here.  These were repotted about 6 months ago and have another leaf since these photos were taken.  But, we only have a few left.  This is an extremely rare palm to find for sale.

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $75

Remember:  Mention this Special!


 
Basselinia pancheri 2g  Basselinia pancheri 2g  Basselinia pancheri 2g 
Basselinia pancheri 2g  Basselinia pancheri   Basselinia pancheri 2g 

 

VEITCHIA WININ
NATIVE ONLY TO VANUATU


SINGLE TRUNK, CROWN SHAFTED
TALL PALM WHEN MATURE
SUPER RARE, HARD TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE1 GALLON SIZE

This single trunk pinnate palm is native to the Vanuatu Islands.  It can attain a mature height of over fifty feet.  Leaves are green, about eight feet long with somewhat drooping leaflets.  The trunk is gray in color and medium thickness.  This species makes bright red seeds.  It can tolerate full coastal sun and has been grown well by some in Southern California.   But, because of it's tropical nature, should only be tried by those in good climates.  We're offering large 1 gallons on sale.  They've done well with our temperatures down to about 32 degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE LARGE 1G $70
TEN DAY SPECIAL OVERSIZED 1G $60

Remember to mention this Special when purchasing so you get this discounted price.  Mail order this size quite easy.



Veitchia winin Veitchia winin Veitchia winin
Veitchia winin Veitchia winin Veitchia winin 

  

DYPSIS ALBOFARINOSA
CLUMPING MADAGASCAR PALM
WHITE CROWN SHAFTS - VERY RARE


PLANTS SHOWN HERE FROM DOMESTIC SEEDS
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE


This clumping medium sized palm is native to Madagascar.  It has previously been called "Dypsis species white petiole".  It was formally described by Don Hodel about fifteen years ago.  It is most closely related to Dypsis baronii and known for its prominently white crown shafts.  Leaves are drooping with rather fine leaflets.  Trunks average about two inches diameter.  Plant height is a maximum of approximately fifteen feet. It can be grown in full coastal sun but should be allowed to grow up and into the sun.  So, starting in bright filtered light is best.  Exact cold hardiness is uncertain but most likely in the mid-twenties F. range.  I am putting one gallons on a Ten Day Special.  These are from domestic seeds.

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $70
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $60


Mention this Special for your discount at the time of purchase.  These can easily be mail ordered.  The last three garden photos are by AL PACSOA

DYPSIS ALBOFARINOSA DYPSIS ALBOFARINOSA DYPSIS ALBOFARINOSA
DYPSIS ALBOFARINOSA DYPSIS ALBOFARINOSA Dypsis albofarinosa AL PACSOA
DYPSIS ALBOFARINOSA Dypsis albofarinosa

 

PALM SEEDLINGS
FIVE DIFFERENT TYPES ONE SALE


BAND SIZE - EASY TO SHIP
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON VARIOUS NICE PALM SEEDLINGS BELOW

Below I am not giving species descriptions or photos of mature specimens.  I've just shown the species names.  I'm posting these for those who know their species and know what they are looking for.  I have shown the most frequently seen common names for the palms below.

REGULAR PRICE ALL BAND SEEDLINGS BELOW $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE PALM BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS $50


All can be mail ordered within the U.S.

ARCHONTOPHOENIX ALEXANDRAE

RARE TYPE KING PALM
ARCHONTOPHOENIX ALEXANDRAE Archontophoenix alexandrae
CARYOTA GIGAS

KING KONG FISHTAIL PALM
Caryota gigas Caryota gigas
CHAMBEYRONIA HOOKERI

THE BLOND FLAME THROWER PALM
Chambeyronia hookeri Chambeyronia hookeri
RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA

SHAVING BRUSH PALM
RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA
JUBAEA CHILENSIS

CHILEAN WINE PALM
Jubaea chilensis Jubaea chilensis

 

CYCAS BIFIDA
AKA CYCAS MULTIFRONDIS 

SUPER RARE ASIAN UNDERSTORY CYCAD
BIFURCATING OR TRIFURCATING LEAFLETS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON AS DESCRIBED BELOW

This interesting and fairly cold hardy Cycas species is native to southern China and Viet Nam.  It has long upright green leaves.  But, this is not a bifurcating leaflet stem species (i.e. Cycas multipinata or debaoensis ).  Rather, it puts out two leaflets off a single stem.  Or, single leaflets that seem to split into two leaflets.  Historically, this is one of the species that started out being called "Cycas micholitzii".  Later it was called Cycas multifrondis.  But, Cycas bifida is now the correct taxonomic name.  Leaves are upright and long.  Expect somewhere in the eight to ten foot length when mature.  It is rarely seen for sale and is hard to find.  Plants usually just carry three or four leaves and have a small caudex, not over about 10 inches, mostly subterranean.  It prefers filtered light or morning sun.  Cold hardiness is definitely down to the low 20's F. 

The plant on Special is in a 5 gallon container.  There are three caudexes.  The primary caudex has no leaves.  The other two, 2 and 3 inches, are holding leaves.  Age is at least 12 years.  This plant can be mail ordered.  It's the last one we have of this species.  The garden photo is c/o China Gardening Nursery.  I must emphasize that this is a super rare species and near impossible to find.

REGULAR PRICE THIS 5G THIS SIZE $1250
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $950
   



Cycas bifica 5 gallon double 2 & 3 inches Cycas bifica 5 gallon double 2 & 3 inches Cycas bifica 5 gallon double 2 & 3 inches
Cycas bifica 5 gallon double 2 & 3 inches Cycas bifica 5 gallon double 2 & 3 inches Cycas bifica 5 gallon double 2 & 3 inches
Cycas bifica 5 gallon double 2 & 3 inches Cycas bifica 5 gallon double 2 & 3 inches Cycas bifica 5 gallon double 2 & 3 inches
Cycas bifida Cycas bifida Cycas bifida by  China Gardening Nursery, China

 

DIOON EDULE
BLUE QUERETERO VARIETY


RARE FORM - SUN LOVING BLUE CYAD
COLD HARDY INTO THE UPPER TEENS F.
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLDER BAND SIZED PLANTS

In other posts I’ve discussed Dioon edule, a typically small to medium sized sun-loving cycad from Mexico.  There are known to be about six different varieties of this species - all from different localities.  The variety on sale here is from the Mexican state of Queretaro.  Leaves are typically blue in full bright sun.  Leaves are about 4 feet long and leaflets are thin, coming to a pointed end.  Mature height after a few decades may be six feet with an trunk height of 18 inches.  Cold tolerance is excellent, being able to take cold weather into the teens F.  The band size on sale are not new seedlings but rather established older (five year old) plants with an average caudex of 8 inches.  These are hard to find and easy to mail order.
 
REGULAR PRICE THESE OLDER BAND SIZE $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE OLDER BAND SIZE $75

Remember to mention this Special for your discount when you purchase.  Availability limited.  BTW, if these don't sell out, all will be repotted into 5g pots shortly.


Dioon edule queretero band Dioon edule queretero band Dioon edule queretero band
Dioon edule queretero band Dioon edule queretero band  Dioon edule queretero 
Dioon edule queretero   Dioon edule queretero   Dioon edule queretero  

 

CYCAS PETRAEA
SUPER RARE GREEN CYCAD FROM THAILAND

 

TWENTY YEAR OLD SPECIMEN WITH VASE SHAPED TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD


This is an unusual Cycas species from colder parts of northern Thailand.  In locality, freezes are experienced and it's reported this species will even tolerate snow.  Cycas petraea can get trunks over 15 feet tall in dozens of decades.  More typically, domestic plant trunks are under three feet tall.  Leaves are flat and green and about four to six feet long.  Crowns consist of dozens of leaves.  The bases of the trunks have a peculiar swelling to them as seen here.  They can form a classical "water vase trunk" which is fat and swollen and then gets thinner above.  Culturally, this species likes nice draining soil, temperatures above a freeze and part day or filtered sun.  As an interior cycad, this would be one to try.  This is probably one of the coolest Cycaspecies around.  The plant on special is in a 7 gallon pot and is about 20 years old from seed.  The caudex has the classic “vase” shape, is 9 inches wide at the base and 11 to 12 inches tall.  As you can see it’s holding a nice set of softer green leaves.  We’re putting this plant on a Ten Day Special.  This is an old, near impossible species to find, especially with this size & age.  It can be mail ordered.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL PLANT $2100
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT $1750

The cycad on special is shown in the first six photos.  The 8th photo is by Amazon.de website, the 9th by the late Ken Hill.

Cycas petraea 7 gallon 9 inches wide 11 inches tall vase shape Cycas petraea 7 gallon 9 inches wide 11 inches tall vase shape Cycas petraea 7 gallon 9 inches wide 11 inches tall vase shape
Cycas petraea 7 gallon 9 inches wide 11 inches tall vase shape Cycas petraea 7 gallon 9 inches wide 11 inches tall vase shape Cycas petraea 7 gallon 9 inches wide 11 inches tall vase shape
Cycas petraea 7 gallon 9 inches wide 11 inches tall vase shape Cycas petraea Cycas petraea Ken Hill

 

BLUE ENCEPHALARTOS HYBRID
ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII X E. TRISPINOSUS



WILL BE SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED BLUE BEAUTY
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS

Most of you cycad enthusiasts are aware of the two parent species of this hybrid.  Male pollen from an E. trispinosus was used to pollinate a receptive female E. lehmannii.  Both of these parents are desirable blue South African cycad species.  Hybridization often gives very vigorous offspring - called "hybrid vigor".  This is one of multiple hybrid Encephalartos that I'll show over the next few weeks.  Along the coast, this plant will want full sun.  Far inland, limited sun.  Cold hardiness 22 degrees F. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS HYBRID BAND SIZE $55

Below I'm showing representative photos of both parent species.


Encephalartos lehmannii x trispinosus Encephalartos lehmannii x trispinosus Encephalartos lehmannii x trispinosus
Encephalartos lehmannii x trispinosus
Hybrid above
Encephalartos lehmannii
Encephalartos lehmannii
Encephalartos trispinosus
Encephalartos trispinosus

 

SUPER UNUSUAL ENCEPHALARTOS HYBRID
F2 HYBRID WITH E. WOODII POLLEN



ENCEPHALARTOS (E. NATALENSIS X E. WOODII) X (ENCEPHALARTOS HORRIDUS X E. WOODII)
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE

This should prove to be one of the most interesting hybrid Encephalartos available on the market.  It is an F2 hybrid.  These were done from domestic plants in Southern California.  The hybridizer took pollen from the E. horridus x woodii to pollinate a receptive female of E. natalensis x woodii.  As most know, E. woodii is extinct in the wild and only male plants are known to exist.  E. horridus x woodii (Encephalartos "horwood") is one of the most sought after hybrids around.  I've shown multiple photos of the plants on Special as well as close up photos of the leaves of both parents.

TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POTS THIS HYBRID $115

I have limited numbers available.  They'll not last long.


Encephalartos (natalensis x woodii) x (horridus x woodii) Encephalartos (natalensis x woodii) x (horridus x woodii) Encephalartos (natalensis x woodii) x (horridus x woodii)
Encephalartos (natalensis x woodii) x (horridus x woodii) Encephalartos (natalensis x woodii) x (horridus x woodii) Encephalartos (natalensis x woodii) x (horridus x woodii)
Encephalartos (natalensis x woodii) x (horridus x woodii) Encephalartos (natalensis x woodii) Encephalartos (horridus x woodii)

 

PANDANUS DUBIUS
SUPER RARE FORM OF SCREWPINE


BAKONG OR KNOB-FRUITED SCREWPINE
MEDIUM HEIGHT, AERIAL ROOTS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 4 INCH SIZE

For those interested in super rare and different tropical and companion plants, this species might interest you.  Although we only have a few, it's one of three to four Pandanus species that we are currently offering.  It is native to multiple islands in the South Pacific as well as Australia.  It has a spiraling head of serrated strap leaves with a thin trunk that has large aerial roots for stabilizing the plant.  Mature heights are 10 to 30 feet.  They can sucker with stands of several trunks.  It prefers a sunny location.  Cold tolerance is not clarified at this time.  I can say this is an extremely difficult plant to find for sale.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL 4 INCH $50


Easy to mail order.  Mature plant photo by TS at RPS.

 
Pandanus dubius Pandanus dubius Pandanus dubius
Pandanus dubius Pandanus dubius
  Pandanus dubius TS RPS  

 

FUCREA QUICHEENSIS
A RARE AND STUNNING BLUE FUCREA


MEDIUM HEIGHT MATURE
THIN BLUE STRAP-LIKE SOFT LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE 4 INCH POT SIZE


This extremely rare and difficult to find variety of Fucrea is native to southwest Guatemala and southern Mexico on the Pacific side.  Plants have thin trunks with a mature heights of six to nine feet with beautiful heads of super blue strap-like blue leaves.  The leaves are a rosette and this crown is six feet or more wide.  Trunks have been known to fork when mature.  Unlike other Fucrea that produce bubils, this species sets seeds.  This is a full sun species and is cold hardy (by estimate) into the mid to upper 20's F.  Mail order would be simple.

REGULAR PRICE 4 INCH $50
TEN DAY SPECIAL 4 INCH $45

Garden/wild photos below by Agaveville website and TS at RPS.


Furcrea quicheensis Furcrea quicheensis Furcrea quicheensis
Furcrea quicheensis Furcrea quicheensis Furcrea quicheensis
Furcrea quicheensis Agaveville website Furcrea quicheensis TS RPS Furcrea quicheensis TS RPS

 

YUCCA ROSTRATA
BLUE SUCCULENT WITH AMAZING COLD HARDINESS


SEMI-DWARF SIZE MATURE
BEING GROWN IN NEW YORK IN THE SNOW!
JUVENILE 4 INCH POTS ON SALE

This small to medium sized, drought tolerant plant is native to the southern U.S. border and down into Mexico.  It is usually a single trunk mature plant but can fork above the ground.  Most notable is the silver-blue foliage as shown here.  It is very slow growing.  Over time it forms a trunk about eight or ten inches thick.  Foliage is about 2 feet long and not "pokey" or sharp.  It demands full sun and is cold hardy at least into the single digits F.  I had a customer call me from New York City recently to tell me that a plant bought from us about three years ago was thriving in his yard.  Gardeners like this species because it's not very big and gives nice color to a sunny garden.  The size we’re putting on sale are juvenile 4 inch pot size and have four to six leaves.  This is a good starter size but will take time to make a nice garden plant.  These would be easy to mail order.  Of note, we also have 3 gallon for sale.

REGULAR PRICE 4 INCH $40
TEN DAY SPECIAL 4 INCH $35

Garden photos are by it.dreamstime.org and USF.ed


Yucca rostrata 4 inch Yucca rostrata 4 inch Yucca rostrata 4 inch
Yucca rostrata 4 inch Yucca rostrata 4 inch Yucca rostrata
Yucca rostrata by it.dreamstime.org Yucca rostrata Yucca rostrata by USF.ed

 

FARFUGIUM JAPONICUM VAR GIGANTEUM
VARIEGATED GIANT LEOPARD LIGULARIA



YELLOW POLKADOTS ON GREEN LEAVES
LARGE, LILY-LIKE LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL HARD TO FIND 5 GALLON PLANTS


For years we've been selling the regular Ligularia but just got in a small number of the giant Leopard form.  This species has larger green leaves with yellow splotches.  It is native to Japan.  Plant height mature is about 2 feet.  If they get dry, the leaves will droop but respond quickly to water.  Blossoms are yellow in the Fall.  You have to keep snails away from them.  They'll take full or part sun along the coast and want filtered light far inland.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties or lower.  Ok for zone 7.  This variegated variety of Liguli is difficult to find.

REGULAR PRICE 7 GALLON $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $75


Remember:  Mention this Special at the time of purchase.  These can be mail ordered in a larger box.


Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum
Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum Farfugium japonicum var. giganteum

 

THE MOOSEHORN FERN
PLATYCERUM SUPERBUM

 


GROWS EPIPHYTICALLY
MOUNT ON WOOD OR TREE TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL SIZE SHOWN

Platycerum are a type of fern that we know as the "Staghorn Fern".  But, the normal type you see, P. bifurcatum, has deer antler types of leaves.  They are narrow and reach out from the attaching shield.  But, there's another type known as the "Moosehorn Fern" where the leaves are entire, stretching across the width of the plant.  Mature, they look entirely different.  These leaves can get up to six feet across – one giant shield like leaf.  They are not easy to find.  The standard Staghorn is not difficult to locate.  Both are an epiphytic type of plant that can be mounted on a tree trunk or grown on a flat wooden base.  They are not hard to care for but you don't want to let them go dry.  I water them by just spraying with a hose and occasionally give them some liquid fertilizer mixed into the water.  You want to water to hit the plant from above – like rain.  They can take a bit of sun or strong filtered light.  Cold hardiness is typically into the mid to perhaps low twenties F.  The plants we have presently are larger than ones we’ve offered in the past.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE $225

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $185


Mention this special to get this price when purchasing.  I can mail order these but they take a surprising large box to ship.  The last photo is a great on and was taken by floragreatlakes.info website.



Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern
Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern
Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern Moosehorn Fern Platycerium superbum by floragreatlakes.info website

 

PLUMERIA PLANTS
LARGE ONE  GALLON AVAILABLE
PRETTY AND DESIRABLE VARIETIES

 

SOME BRANCHING
THREE DIFFERENT BLOSSOMS
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE ONE GALLON PLANTS

We are pleased to offer three very beautiful varieties of Plumeria.  We got these in 2 days ago and also had a “Hot Pink” variety which sold out the same day.  Most are large for a one gallon and have branches.  They are growing now that it’s spring and have leaves.  They should produce flowers this summer.  I brought these in because all are super desirable varieties.  They came from a private Plumeria enthusiast.  These plants like sun and heat.  Cold tolerance is down to a freeze or slightly below.  If you plant some in your garden, remember to not water them in winter when it’s cold.  This will cause rot.   Limited supplies.  We also have other sizes available, mostly larger.

REGULAR PRICE THESE ONE GALLON BELOW $55
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE ONE GALLON $45

Remember:  Mention this Special when you purchase.


Plumeria pinang peach          Plumeria pinang peach Plumeria pinang peach
Plumeria pinang peach Plumeria pinang peach Plumeria pinang peach
Plumeria pink pansy Plumeria pink pansy Plumeria pink pansy
Plumeria pink pansy Plumeria pink pansy Plumeria pink pansy
Plumeria yellow Plumeria yellow Plumeria yellow
Plumeria yellow Plumeria yellow Plumeria yellow

 

MONDAY, 24 OCTOBER, 2022 

 

CYCADS WITH UPRIGHT LEAVES
RARE NURSERY SPECIMENS OF GOOD SIZE


SOME AGES 20 TO 100 YEARS!
AN ASSORTMENT OF PLANTS


Many times consumers or businesses want cycads where the leaves go up rather than "out".  This is usually because they have a specific need to have plants with a crown of leaves that is more vertical than horizontal.  Obviously, this keeps leaves from blocking people walking by the plant.  So, with this in mind, we took photographs of some of our cycads with upright leaves.  Realize that many species do this naturally - have leaves with a more upright orientation.  Other species will be upright on their new throws of leaves and then upright leaves relax down as the next swirl emerges.  To maintain upright leaves one would remove the lower, older swirls of leaves.  The photos here are not a complete list of such plants but will give the reader an idea of what I'm talking about.

Photos Shown Below Mostly Taken at Our Nursery:

Ceratozamia robusta, several plants showing upright leaves
Dioon mejiae, several nursery plants with upright leaves
Dioon merolae, a 100 year old cycad with 2 feet of vertical trunk, upright leaves
Dioon holmgrenei, several plants showing new leaves are upright
Encephalartos altensteinii, new leaves on these plant go upright.  Older leaves may lay down somewhat.
Encephalartos gratus, several plants showing upright leaves
Encephalartos kisambo, note the upright character of the leaves
Encephalartos natalensis, like some others, new leaves upright, old leaves hang down
Encephalartos transvenosus, similar with newer leaves upright
Encephalartos villosus, several nursery plants, all with upright leaves
Encephalartos whitelockii, naturally upright leaves on all these great nursery cycads

ONLY A PARTIAL LIST - ARE MANY OTHERS WITH UPRIGHT LEAVES

As most of you know, we have a great selection of mature rare cycads - probably one of the best selections in the country.  What you may not know is how actively we work with architects on getting these great plants into venues where many people see them.  This includes botanical gardens, theme parks, public plantings, museums, parks, etc.  But, we have enough inventory so that even enthusiasts like perhaps yourself can enjoy them as well.  With over 25,000 rare cycads available, from seedlings to many huge coning sized plants, there's something of every size for everyone. 


Ceratozamia robusta
Ceratozamia robusta
Ceratozamia robusta
Ceratozamia robusta
Ceratozamia robusta
Ceratozamia robusta
Dioon mejiae
Dioon mejiae
Dioon mejiae
Dioon mejiae
Dioon mejiae
Dioon mejiae

  Dioon merolae
Dioon merolae

Dioon merolae
Dioon merolae
Dioon merolae
Dioon merolae

Dioon holmgrenei
Dioon holmgrenei
Dioon holmgrenei
Dioon holmgrenei
Dioon mejiae
Dioon holmgrenei
Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos gratus
Encephalartos gratus
Encephalartos gratus
Encephalartos gratus
Encephalartos gratus
Encephalartos gratus
Encephalartos kisambo
Encephalartos kisambo
Encephalartos kisambo
Encephalartos kisambo
Encephalartos kisambo
Encephalartos kisambo
Encephalartos natalensis
Encephalartos natalensis
Encephalartos natalensis
Encephalartos natalensis
Encephalartos natalensis
Encephalartos natalensis
Encephalartos transvenosus
Encephalartos transvenosus
Encephalartos transvenosus
Encephalartos transvenosus
Encephalartos transvenosus
Encephalartos transvenosus
Encephalartos villosus
Encephalartos villosus
Encephalartos villosus
Encephalartos villosus
Encephalartos villosus
Encephalartos villosus
Encephalartos whitelockii
Encephalartos whitelockii
Encephalartos whitelockii
Encephalartos whitelockii
Encephalartos whitelockii
Encephalartos whitelockii

 

RHAPIS MULTIFIDA
A RARE TYPE OF LADY PALM

 


ONE OF THE BEST PALMS FOR INSIDE
GREAT GARDEN PLANT AS WELL
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLD 25 GALLON PLANT

I haven't been able to offer this superior fan palm as they have not been available for over five years.  But, we do have one or two very old plants that we were holding in stock and have decided to sell.  This is a very rare type of Lady Palm.  This species is from China and is often mistaken for Rhapis humilus.  But, it is a smaller species, getting to about 8 feet tall whereas humilus gets about twice as tall.  It performs well inside the home or office and also is quite easy to grow outside in filtered light.  The stems of multifida are much more attractive than the common Lady Palm, Rhapis excelsa.  It also carries more leaflets per leaf than the Lady Palm and is overall a more attractive plant.  The leaflets are narrow and come to a point like Rhapis humilus.  Side by side, the majority of our customers prefer the Rhapis multifida to the Rhapis excelsa.

Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties or lower, F.  Outdoors, this species prefers filtered light.   One must be careful not to give Rhapis too much fertilizer or leaf burn may occur.  We have a near twenty year old 25 gallon that we’re putting on special.  It is too big for standard mail order.  BTW, if you start looking for a comparable plant, the chances are you won't find one.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 25 GALLON $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 25 GALLON $675

The sale plant is shown in the first 6 photos.


Rhapis multifida Rhapis multifida Rhapis multifida
Rhapis multifida Rhapis multifida Rhapis multifida
Rhapis multifida Rhapis multifida Rhapis multifida

 

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR


A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 24 INCH BOX SIZE

For several decades we've been growing this stunning blue fan palm from Madagascar.  These are the blue form.  This palm species loves sun, heat and is cold hardy to the low 20’s F.  It doesn’t like the grower to fool with or cut its roots.  These cannot be transplanted once established in the garden.  They get a husky trunk and probably about 35 - 40 feet tall in many decades.  The fan leaf is intensely blue, especially with full hot sun.  This is a very attractive palm and should be given room in the garden to show it off.  Many people in desert locations have found they can grow it.  Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F. Shown below is our 24 inch box size.  These are followed by the 15 gallon size in the next post.  Both sizes are on sale.  This species is a real “show-stopper”.  Literally people driving by will stop to look at one in your front yard and ask: “Hey Man, what is that blue palm tree?”


REGULAR PRICE 24 INCH BOX SIZE $625
TEN DAY SPECIAL 24 INCH BOX SIZE $550

Remember:  Mention this Special for this price


Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis
Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis
Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis

 

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR


A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

 

For several decades we've been growing this stunning blue fan palm from Madagascar.  These are the blue form.  This palm species loves sun, heat and is cold hardy to the low 20’s F.  It doesn’t like the grower to fool with or cut its roots.  These cannot be transplanted once established in the garden.  They get a husky trunk and probably about 35 - 40 feet tall in many decades.  The fan leaf is intensely blue, especially with full hot sun.  This is a very attractive palm and should be given room in the garden to show it off.  Many people in desert locations have found they can grow it.  Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F. Shown below are our 15 gallon plants.  This species is a real “show-stopper”.  Literally people driving by will stop to look at one in your front yard and ask: “Hey Man, what is that blue palm tree?”

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $210

Mail order possible but it'd take a very large box.

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS BISMARCKIA NOBILIS BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BISMARCKIA NOBILIS BISMARCKIA NOBILIS BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BISMARCKIA NOBILIS BISMARCKIA NOBILIS BISMARCKIA NOBILIS

 

BISMARCKIA SPECIES MAYOTTE ISLAND
THE RARE GREEN BISMARCKIA



BISMARCKIA BUT WITHOUT THE BLUE COLOR
VERY ATTRACTIVE, LARGER GREEN FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLD 15G SIZED PLANTS

One of the favorite characteristics of Bismarckia is the blue color to the leaves. But, there is a green variety on the island of Madagascar.  At another location, there is an endemic green Bismarckia known as the  "Mayotte Island" form.  There is very little published about these green forms of the Bismarck Palm.  It likes sun and is probably cold hardy into the low 20's F.  Most feel it's not quite as cold hardy as the blue form.  On these green Bismarckias, often you'll see red in the leaf stem or a hint of it on the leaves.  Of course, this is a full sun palm.  This is a very rare palm to find as everyone seeks out the blue type.  But, we have this more rare green form and have found they are showing nice cold hardiness to the low 20's F.  The plant shown below is about twelve years old.  We have a handful of them.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $250
TERN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE $225


Bismarckia nobilis green form 15g Bismarckia nobilis green form 15g Bismarckia nobilis green form 15g
Bismarckia nobilis green form 15g Bismarckia nobilis green form 15g Bismarckia nobilis green form 15g
Bismarckia nobilis green form 15g Bismarckia nobilis green Bismarckia nobilis green

CHAMAEDOREA CATARACTARUM
THE CAT PALM



A SEMI-DWARF CLUSTERING PALM
SEMI-DWARF TO SIX FEET
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This species of palm has been sold under the name "Cat Palm", which is an abbreviation for "cataractarum".   For Chamaedoreas and in the past, it was fairly easy to find.  Nowadays it's very difficult to find, especially with mature size as shown here.  It is a clustering palm that gets six feet tall.  It really doesn't form any trunk.  It likes water as it has a native habitat near river beds.  It is cold hardy into the mid 20's F. and I'd recommend, at most, a few hours of sun or filtered light.  It is native to the southern areas of Mexico and possibly into areas of Central America.  With less than adequate water it tends to look scrappy.  At the nursery, we offer mostly large plants, either 10 or 15 gallon size.  They typically are suckering with a near mature height.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $210

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount.


Chamaedorea cataractarum Chamaedorea cataractarum Chamaedorea cataractarum
Chamaedorea cataractarum Chamaedorea cataractarum Chamaedorea cataractarum
Chamaedorea cataractarum Chamaedorea cataractarum Chamaedorea cataractarum

 

CHAMAEDOREA ERNESTI-AUGUSTI
SINGLE STEM, SIMPLE LEAF DWARF SHADE PALM


MATURE FRUITING COLONY IN 10 GALLON
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT


Shown below is a private collection plant with both sexes of this great understory single trunk palm that rarrely gets over about six feet tall.  Characteristics are shown below.  I only have this one specimen. To read about a ton of species in this genus, click highlighted link below.

REGULAR PRICE THIS 10 GALLON COLONY $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL GROUPING $245


Locality:

Mexico and northern Central America

Cold Hardiness: 

28 to 30, F.

Trunk type:

Thin, single trunk; miniature species usually chest height or shorter

Leaf type:

Simple, bifid type

Suckering/Solitary:

Solitary, (single trunk).

Maintenance:

Easy, likes shade

Speed of growth:

Medium, remembering that it never gets tall

Height:

Head height, to six feet

Soil requirements:

Good drainage and ample water

Sun Requirements:

Shade or strong filtered

General Description:

A gorgeous small palm that looks good in clumps of multiple plants.  A nice "filler plant" for that special shady area.  

Other Notes:

Makes nice houseplant

Further Data:

Recommended: Chamaedorea Palms, The Species


Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti 10 g multi female blossoms Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti 10 g multi female blossoms Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti 10 g multi female blossoms
Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti 10 g multi female blossoms Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti 10 g multi female blossoms Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti 10 g multi female blossoms
Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti Chamaedorea ernesti-augusti

 

 

COCONUT QUEEN PALM
DESIRABLE SYAGRUS HYBRID
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL WHEN MATURE



SYAGRUS ROMANZOFFIANA X SCHIZOPHYLLA
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON PLANTS

This interesting hybrid originated in Thailand by a grower and propagator of rare palms.  It is a cross between the common Queen Palm and an unusual type of palm from the same genus, Syagrus schizophylla.  The offspring have proven to be quite beautiful and have good cold tolerance.  These will be a medium to large palm.  The trunk will be thinner than the normal Queen and the overall size will be less.  The attached photos of mature plants show how pretty it is.  Note that they do not resemble what we all know as the Queen Palm.  Some say they seem more to resemble a Coconut Palm. 

This is a very rare hybrid to come across.  They are essentially unavailable on the market and absolutely no small plants exist.  This is because there have been no seeds for going on ten years. But, we were able to get a limited number of seedlings a few years ago and now they are in 5 gallon pots.  We’re putting these on special.  Be aware, these are near impossible to find.  Mature height is about 20 feet.  This hybrid likes full sun, is a medium rate grower and has a cold hardiness estimated to be in the low 20's F.  We have very limited supplies.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $165
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $145

This is probably one of the last times we’ll offer this rare hybrid for sale.  Domestic large plants by JI.


Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid
Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid
Coconut Queen Coconut Queen Coconut Queen

 

DYPSIS PEMBANA
SINGLE TRUNK OR SUCKERING
NATIVE TO PEMBA ISLAND

TAKES FULL COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

There are both single trunk and suckering forms of this species.  Nowadays, most of the plants available of this species are the suckering form.  Both get to a height of 25 feet, have an attractive green trunk and a light colored crown shaft.  Leaves have a graceful arch and the leaflet color is green.  It's a great alternative for the garden.  Note how the trunks are beefy but not overly large.  The plants on special are already suckering.  Along our coast it will take part day sun but I'd recommend filtered or morning sun inland.  The plants on special are in 5g size.   We may have both larger and smaller size.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $115 

Remember to mention this Blog Special at the time of purchase.  Limited numbers are available.  The garden specimen photos are c/o a late friend Al Bredeson.  I'm also showing a prior Nursery stock 25 gallon

DYPSIS PEMBANA DYPSIS PEMBANA DYPSIS PEMBANA
DYPSIS PEMBANA DYPSIS PEMBANA DYPSIS PEMBANA
dypsis pembana dypsis pembana Al B. dypsis pembana A.B.

 

KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS
SUPER RARE SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM



NATIVE TO NEW CALEDONIA
THIN TRUNK - VERY ELEGANT

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This is a single trunk, crown shafted pinnate palm native to New Caledonia.  Many feel it's the prettiest species of this genus.  It gets to a height of about 40 feet or more and has a thin trunk.  Leaves are upright, green and arched.  They are keeled and green in color.  The crown shaft is a copper color, covered with a white wax.  It can be grown in some sun, depending on where you live.  It's probably best to start it in bright filtered light and let it work its way into overhead sun.  Growth rate is good, comparable or faster than K. oliviformis.  Cold tolerance is down to about a freeze.  This is an extremely difficult species to find for sale nowadays.  I have a limited number of 5 gallon plants we’re putting on special.  Notice the newly emerging red leaf – most commonly seen in New Caledonia palm species.  This is an extremely rare species and we rarely have them for sale.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100


 Photo of garden plant by TS at RPS.


Kentiopsis pyriformis 5g Kentiopsis pyriformis 5g Kentiopsis pyriformis 5g
Kentiopsis pyriformis 5g Kentiopsis pyriformis 5g Kentiopsis pyriformis 5g
Kentiopsis pyriformis ts rps Kentiopsis pyriformis  

 

COCCOTHRINAX BARBADENSIS
MEDIUM SIZED, NARROW TRUNK
VERY "CUTE PALM" WITH GREEN OR SILVER GREEN LEAVES


TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 5 GALLON SIZE

We at the nursery are very proud that we offer a good selection of these interesting New World fan palms - Coccothrinax.  This species is native to the Caribbean region and gets to heights of about 30 feet in many decades.  Leaf color is green to silver-green and trunks are typically six inches thick or a bit more.  This species loves full hot sun and is cold tolerant into the mid-twenties F.  Many are growing it with good success.  In pots, all Coccothrinax are painfully slow.  It's taken us about six years to produce the 5g plants you see here.  We do have other sizes for sale and multiple other species of this genus.  In the ground they are much faster.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE $110

Remember:  Mention this Special when you purchase to get this discount.


Coccothrinax barbadensis Coccothrinax barbadensis Coccothrinax barbadensis
Coccothrinax barbadensis Coccothrinax barbadensis Coccothrinax barbadensis
Coccothrinax barbadensis Coccothrinax barbadensis Coccothrinax barbadensis

DYPSIS PRESTONIANA
SINGLE TRUNK, BEAUTIFUL
A REAL WINNER!


SUPER RARE MADAGASCAR PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

Discovered by John Dransfield and named after a U.K. executive of Macdonald's Hamburgers (who funded the expedition to Madagascar), this single trunk palm is new to the market, super rare and quite attractive.   It has orange-brown leaf bases at the point of trunk attachment, plumose leaves and gets to a height of about 25 to 30 feet.  It is single trunked with a medium thickness and prominent rings.  It takes full sun in coastal areas and, once established, is a good growing palm.  Shown here are our band sized seedlings.  On occasion we have larger sizes for sale.  These are easy to ship.  Growers tell us that this species takes temperatures into the mid-20's F.  I know of several enthusiasts who live in cool areas and now have fruiting specimens of this species.  It is an excellent grower.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $52.50

Remember:  Mention this Blog Special for this price.  Easy to mail order.  Habitat photo c/o TS at RPS.
 

Dypsis prestoniana Dypsis prestoniana Dypsis prestoniana
Dypsis prestoniana Dypsis prestoniana Dypsis prestoniana

 



ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS
       TEN DAY SPECIAL - THREE VERY LARGE SPECIMENS


 

ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS - BLUE & GREEN VARIETIES
RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 
MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - LIKES COASTAL SUN
STUNNING SPINY LEAVES - BLUE OR GREEN OR IN-BETWEEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD

Encephalartos arenarius is from the coastal dunes and forest close to Alexandria in the Eastern Cape.  This species is small to medium in mature size.  Leaf length can range from one to two meters (i.e. three to six feet approximately) depending on cultivar and exposure to sun.  Like many of the Encephalartos from the Eastern Cape, this species is variable in color, size and leaf type.  E. arenarius can range in color from a dull green to a powdery white color (bearing a likeness to E. horridus). The plants we are putting on special below are primarily green forms but may become more blue outdoors in full sun.  To get this color they will want full sun or an ample amount of sun.  It prefers a well draining soil.  Speed of growth of this cycad is good.  

This first E. arenarius shown below is in a 35 gallon container and has a caudex that is 15 inches wide and 15 inches tall.  It came from a private collection and has an age of about 30 years. Its leaves are half way between blue and green.  At this moment I am not certain of the sex.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 35 GALLON CONING PLANT $3700
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT $3150

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount when you order.  


Encephalartos arenarius 35 gallon 15 x 15 inches Encephalartos arenarius 35 gallon 15 x 15 inches Encephalartos arenarius 35 gallon 15 x 15 inches
Encephalartos arenarius 35 gallon 15 x 15 inches Encephalartos arenarius 35 gallon 15 x 15 inches Encephalartos arenarius 35 gallon 15 x 15 inches
Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius

 

ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS - BLUE & GREEN VARIETIES
RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 
MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - LIKES COASTAL SUN
STUNNING SPINY LEAVES - BLUE OR GREEN OR IN-BETWEEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

This Encephalartos arenarius is in a 36 inch box.  Age 50 years.  Caudex 24 inches wide, 26 inches tall.  It is near full mature size.  Sex uncertain although it's conded in the past.  Leaf color is blue-green.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 36 INCH BOX MATURE CYCAD $6100
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS 36 INCH BOX CYCAD
$4900

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount when you order.  


Encephalartos arenarius 36 box 24 x 26 inch (1) (Custo Encephalartos arenarius 36 box 24 x 26 inch (1) (Custo Encephalartos arenarius 36 box 24 x 26 inch (1) (Custo
Encephalartos arenarius 36 box 24 x 26 inch (1) (Custo Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius
Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius

 

ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS - BLUE & GREEN VARIETIES
RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 
MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - LIKES COASTAL SUN
STUNNING SPINY LEAVES - BLUE OR GREEN OR IN-BETWEEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

This Encephalartos arenarius is in a 15 gallon pot with a cuadezx size that is 8.5 inches with no vertical heightl.  Age is about 8 or 9 years from germination.  It should cone soon.  Leaf color is green.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD IS $1400
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS 15 GALLON $1150

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount when you order.  


Encephalartos arenarius green 15g 8.5 inches Encephalartos arenarius green 15g 8.5 inches Encephalartos arenarius green 15g 8.5 inches
Encephalartos arenarius green 15g 8.5 inches Encephalartos arenarius green 15g 8.5 inches Encephalartos arenarius
Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius

STANGERIA ERIOPSUS
FERN-LIKE DWARF AFRICAN CYCAD


VERY CUTE DWARF CYCAD FOR SOME SUN - STRONG FILTERED LIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL FEMALE IN CONE CITRUS POT SIZE THIS SPECIES FOR TEN DAYS

Stangeria eriopus is the only species in this genus and is native to forests in South Africa.  It is a dwarf species.  The leaves more resemble a fern than a typical cycad.  It is most closely related to another cycad which branches, Bowenia, from Australia.  It is often described as having two forms: the grassland and the mountain form.  What I’ve found culturally with one batch of seeds is that there seems to be more variation plant to plant than from “variety to variety”.  

Leaves are typically under three feet long but have been reported to get over five feet.  Leaflets are rounded at the end, sometimes have serrations and are soft to the touch.  I’ve not seen leaves much over three to four feet long.  Caudexes are small as well.  An eight inch caudex would be large.  They can cone when the caudex is four inches.  They like filtered light or part day sun right on the coast.  We’d found they tolerate temperatures of 24 to 25 degrees F. with no problem.  They are a very cute and small plant.  This spees is hard to find and is considered quite rare.

The cycad on special is in a citrus pot container and has a caudex 3 inches wide and 3.5 inches tall with a prominent female cone.  We don't recall if we pollinated it. This actual plant is shown in the first 3 photos followed by another male coning plant in the second row of photos.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL CYCAD AS DESCRIBED $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $600

Mail order possible, weather permitting.  If you have bad weather we can hold shipping if needed.

Stangeria eriopus female citrus pot 1 Stangeria eriopus citrus pot female Stangeria eriopus citrus pot female
Stangeria eriopus male Stangeria eriopus Stangeria eriopus
Stangeria Stangeria eriopus Stangeria eriopus

 

ENCEPHALARTOS TRISPINOSUS
BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD



SOUGHT AFTER - SPINY LEAFLETS
LOVES SUN AND PRETTY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL – THREE YEAR OLD FIVE LEAF SEEDLINGS

Shown below is our band size plants of the desirable blue South African cycad, Encephalartos trispinosus.  Most people find it's very similar to E. horridus.  It is a small to medium sized mature blue cycad with leaflets that have prominent lobes.  But, be aware that this species is quite variable and has many forms.  There is even a spineless leaflet form.  It likes full sun and is cold hardy to about 22 degrees F.  These band sized plants are easy to ship.  Of note, these seedlings are pretty nice, some with five or more leaves and an age of 3 years.  They are probably ready to be repotted into a larger container. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE BAND SIZE $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE  BAND PLANTS $70


Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus
Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus
Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS X ENCEPHALARTOS PRINCEPS
INTERESTING HYBRID OF TWO SOUTH AFRICAN CYCADS



SHOULD GROW INTO A STUNNING MATURE PLANT
HOPEFULLY BLUE STACKING LEAFLETS
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS


This fascinating hybrid was created by taking male pollen from E. princeps and applying it to a female cone of E. longifolius.  This is an F1 hybrid.  Both the parents are from South Africa and both were blue.  My hopes are that the princeps will give it the beautiful blue color and glamour.  We're hoping that the E. longifolius seed bearer will give it stacking of the leaflets and very curved leaves.  But, no one can be sure what this hybrid will look like.  They are healthy band sized seedlings and already showing blue color.  They should like coastal sun and be cold hardy into the low 20's F. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE BAND HYBRIDS $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS BAND SIZE $55

Easy to mail order.  Remember to mention this Special at the time of purchase.  I'm showing nursery specimens of both species of this hybrid.

Encephalartos longifolius x princeps Encephalartos longifolius x princeps Encephalartos longifolius x princeps
Encephalartos longifolius x princeps Encephalartos longifolius x princeps Encephalartos longifolius x princeps
Encephalartos longifolius
Encephalartos longifolius
Encephalartos princeps
Encephalartos princeps
 

MACROZAMIA MOOREI
LARGER COLD HARDY CYCAD


A CYCAD THAT EVENTUALLY LOOKS LIKE A PALM TREE
TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO 50 YEAR OLD SPECIMENS SHOWN BELOW


This larger cycad is native to Queensland, Australia.  Over many decades, it establishes a thick trunk and can get ten to twenty feet tall.  At this size the truly resemble a palm tree, both in crown size and trunk size.  It is recognizable because of its long, curved and keeled leaves (V shaped in cross section).  Other species like M. johnsoni and communis have much flatter leaves.  It is very cold hardy for a cycad and can easily grow outdoors in many areas of the SF Bay Area.  Some report that it tolerates low temperatures into the upper teens F.

The 24 inch boxed specimens shown below were imported into the U.S. about 25 years ago by a private individual - all legally with CITES permits.  They were about 25 years old back then.  Caudexes are fat and some have stem heights of two feet.  Of note, this species is slow to put on trunk height.  This species wants full sun.  The two specimens shown below are larger than anything on the market and have a Regular Price of $3400.

TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE ON EITHER OF THESE TWO SPECIMEN CYCADS $2900 EACH

The large specimen photo is by:  people.hws.edu by Mitchel.  Each individual plant is shown by three photos in the first and second row of photos below. 

 
Macrozamia moorei   Macrozamia moorei   Macrozamia moorei  

 

 

EDIBLE BANANA THAT MANY OF YOU CAN GROW!
MUSA GRAN NAIN


VARIETY THAT CHIQUITA UTILIZES FOR MARKET FRUIT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 15 GALLON PLANTS

This banana cultivar is popular worldwide and is the variety of choice for Chiquita Banana Company.  It is a cultivar of Musa acuminata.  It produces a huge amount of bananas if well grown.  It is common for one plant to produce over 40 pounds of fruit.  The fruit is medium sized, firm and sweet.  Plants get to about 9 feet height, sucker when a fruit stem has finished and require half sun or full sun if possible.  They benefit from large amounts of compost or soil amendments and do require fertilization to make good fruit.  Leaves are typically solid green.  They are a quick growing species.  They do best in frost free areas but can recover from a freeze.  Of note, remove the fruit when it's still a bit green and wait for it to ripen off the tree.  We are offering 15g plants on Special.  They are nicely sized and most are overhead in their pots.  The photo of the fruit is by A-S.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON THIS SIZE $185

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15 GALLON $155



Musa gran nain 15g Musa gran nain 15g Musa gran nain 15g
Musa gran nain 15g Musa gran nain 15g Musa gran nain 15g
Musa gran nain 15g Musa Gran Nain Banana by A-S  

 

ALOCASIA SERENDIPITY
AFRICAN MASK HYBRID VARIETY WITH BLACK, PUCKERED LEAVES

GREAT INTERIOR PLANT OR FOR FROST FREE GARDEN AREAS
FOUR TO SIX FEET TALL MATURE - FILTERED LIGHT OR A BIT OF SUN

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

Alocasia are a group of tropical pLants that have diamond or heart shaped leaves.  Some like sun, others shade.  They are similar to Colocasia.  There are over 80 types / hybrids of Alocasia.  A.serendipity is known for its puckered dark green-black leaves (dorsal side) and prominently purple undersides.  This is a hybrid species that is stunningly pretty inside and can be grown outside if you don’t get a freeze.  Inside it wants good indirect light and outdoors filtered light with maybe a bit of direct sun.  Leaf size mature is 2 to 3 feet.  Leaves are also quite shiny.  Older leaves tend to be more green.  This species wants filtered light or a bit of sun.   This size can be mail ordered, weather permitting.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $75


Alocasia serendipity 5g Alocasia serendipity 5g Alocasia serendipity 5g
Alocasia serendipity 5g Alocasia serendipity 5g Alocasia serendipity 5g
Alocasia serendipity 5g Alocasia serendipity Alocasia serendipity

 

ALOCASIA SUMO
HYBRID ALOCASIA - EXOTIC WITH SOME COLD HARDINESS



MEDIUM SIZED, LUSH TROPICAL COMPANION PLANT

TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE

Alocasia sumo is a hybrid species - a cross between A. portora and "purple cloak".  The cold hardiness comes from the portora parentage.  This is a medium sized hybrid with 3 to 4 foot long leaves that are diamond shaped with a purple hue to the underside of the leaves.  Leaves are a lesser purple-green and point upwards.  There are prominent veins on the leaves.  Plant height should be about 6 to 8 feet.  It is reported that this species is a "7b" zone species which means it should tolerate a freeze.  Obviously, it'd look best in summer.  We'd recommend filtered light or limited sun although some are having good results with full sun near the beach.  The juvenile plants on sale are in one gallon pots.  They are being grown in an un-heated greenhouse.  They are ready to be repotted into a 5 gallon pot.  Mail order possible, weather permitting.

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $45

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $35


Note, that if you want larger, we have nice 5 gallons and large 15g.  The 15tg size are shown below in the last two photos.  I’d offer a special price on these sizes as well.   


Alocasia sumo 1g Alocasia sumo 1g Alocasia sumo 1g
Alocasia sumo 1g Alocasia sumo 1g Alocasia sumo 1g
Alocasia sumo 1g Alocasia sumo Alocasia sumo
Alocasia sumo Alocasia sumo  

 

DICHORISANDRA THYRIFLORA
THE BLUE GINGER - HARD TO FIND

FIVE TO SIX FEET TALL – BLUE BLOSSOMS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON SIZE

This is actually not a true Ginger at all.  It is native to all areas of the new world including the U.S.  It produces actual blue flowers.  We have a limited number of two gallon plants that we’re putting on special.  This is a starter size.  This species wants filtered light in a warmer coastal area.  In fact, some along the coast succeed with several hours of morning sun.  They are late blooming compared to almost all other “Gingers”.  They tend to blossom in fall.  In somewhat colder regions, they may need protection from a freeze.  They do sucker and canes are thin.  Expect mature height at about five feet.  This plant is not for full, hot sun.  They need average water – backing off when it’s cold.  These are rare to see for sale and we're offering starter 1 gallon on special.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $45

TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON AS SHOWN $35

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when purchasing.

Blue Ginger Blue Ginger Blue Ginger
Blue Ginger Blue Ginger Blue Ginger
Blue Ginger Blue Ginger Blue Ginger

 

ENSETE VENTICOSUM "MAURELII"
THE RED BANANA



LARGE SINGLE TRUNK TROPICAL PLANT
RED COLOR TO FOLIAGE
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE AND FIFTEEN GALLON GALLON SIZES

On sale are nice one gallon plants of the Red Banana, Ensete ventricosum mauerlii.  This is a quick growing tropical plant that can get to ten to fifteen feet tall and grows in full coastal sun.  Leaves are green with prominent red to both the dorsal and ventral sides.  Trunks are at least 18 inches thick and leaves are fleshy and soft - typical of bananas and Ensete.  It does not be edible fruit.  Cold hardiness is down to about a freeze.  Colder weather damages the leaves in winter.  This is a fast growing plant but typically only lives for 5 to 7 years before flowering and dying.  The garden photo is by Linda Cochran.  We're putting our nice 15g on Special as well as juvenile 1 gallon (first and second row of photos).  The 1 gallon should be easy to mail order.  You'll note that the larger 15g plants show the red leaves a lot more.

REGULAR PRICE FIFTEEN GALLON $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $175

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $40
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $30



Ensete maurellii Red Banana Ensete maurellii Red Banana Ensete maurellii Red Banana
Ensete maurellii 1g Red Banana Ensete maurellii 1g Red Banana Ensete maurellii 1g Red Banana
rED BANANA Ensete ventricosa Maurelii BY LINDA COCHRAN  


FRIDAY, 21 OCTOBER, 2022
 

BAD PALM SEEDS?
HOW CAN YOU TELL?



THE FLOAT TEST
THE PINCH TEST
CUT THE SEED OPEN

Many people love to germinate palm seeds and make their plants.  But, there are a few things you need to now right from the beginning if you want to successfully germinate.

1.  Get fresh seeds.  Right off the tree is best.
2.  Pick seeds that are mature, often colorful.  Green seeds germinate poorly.
3.  Remove the fruit from the seeds until you have a clean, often tan colored inner seed.  Fruit can contain chemicals that retard germination.
4.  Pinch test seeds.  Take the picked seeds (with or without fruit) and squeeze hard between two fingers.  They should never collapse.
5.  Float Test the seeds.  Palm seeds almost always sink in water.  Floaters are almost always bad.   Inner cavities of rot within the seed make them float.
6.  Cut open a few seeds.  The fruit should be white or light tan, solid and without signs of rot.  And, you definitely do not want to see inner cavities.
7.  Always soak the cleaned seeds in pure water, especially if you had seeds shipped to you.  This rehydrates them.  If seeds are right off a tree and the fruit is moist and fresh, soaking is not necessary.  But, they would still be cleaned of any fruit.

Photos here show seeds with fruit, the float test with floaters and sinkers and a few seeds cut open showing inner cavities (a bad sign).  For techniques on germination, see our article on
Palm Seed Germination at this website.


Butia capitata seeds with yellow fruit
Butia capitata seeds with fresh yellow fruit
Chambeyronia seeds with red fruit
Chambeyronia seeds with red fruit



Green palm seeds
Green seeds, not ready to pick



palm seeds
Livistona saribus seeds with blue fruit
Jubaea chilensis cleaning fruit off seed
Cleaning fruit off Jubaea chilensis
Palm Seed Float Test
Float test:  Note floating seeds
Palm Seed Float TEst
Float test - Astrocaryum seeds floating
Float Test Sinkers
Float Test:  Note good seeds sink to bottom
Float Test Sinkers
Sinking seeds on float test
Cavity in Palm Seeds
Cavity in bad Astrocaryum mexicanum seeds
Palm Seed Cavity Astrocaryum mexicanum
Cavity in Astrocaryum mexicanum
Cavity in palm seeds
Cavity in bad Gastrococos crispa seeds
Cavity in Palm Seed
Cavity in Gastrococus crispa


CYCAS MEDIA

LUSH GREEN AUSTRALIAN CYCAD


THIN TRUNK, UP TO 20 FEET
NICE LANDSCAPE PLANTS AVAILABLE

This attractive cycad is native to Queensland, Australia.  It has green leaves five to six feet long and in a lifetime can get a trunk up to 20 feet.  Trunk diameter is typically about 8 to 10 inches.  Leaf stems are minimal armed and leaf color is green on both sides.  It will take coastal sun but would be better with part day sun or filtered light far inland.  Shown here are several 15g and one 20g plants.  We may have smaller available.  Any of these plants can be shipped by mail order.  This is a pretty rare species that you can find easily.


Cycas media Cycas media Cycas media
cycas media
Cycas media Cycas media
A different, even bigger 20g specimen
Cycas media
A different, much older 15g specimen
cycas media Cycas media

 

COCONUT QUEEN PALM
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL WHEN MATURE
NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND


MEDIUM HEIGHT – SYAGRUS HYBRID
TEN DAY SPECIAL SUN READY BOX SIZED PLANTS

This interesting hybrid originated in Thailand by a grower and propagator of rare palms.  It is a cross between the common Queen Palm and an unusual type of palm from the same genus, Syagrus schizophylla.  The offspring have proven to be quite beautiful and have good cold tolerance.  These will be a medium sized palm.  The trunk will be thinner than the normal Queen and the overall size will be less.  The attached photos of near mature plants show how pretty it is. And, that they are not overly tall.  Note that they do not resemble what we all know as the Queen Palm.  Some say they seem more to resemble a Coconut Palm. This hybrid likes full sun, is a medium rate grower and has a cold hardiness estimated to be in the low 20's F.  Mature height should be about 25 feet. For those who want the fluffy appearance of the Queen Palm without the large size, this palm is perfect for you.  Be aware, these are extremely difficult to find and are presently in super short supply.

We’re putting huge 24 inch boxes on sale.  They are about 10 - 12 feet tall in their box.  This hybrid likes full sun, is a medium rate grower.  We have what may be the last three plants in this area.  

REGULAR PRICE 24 INCH BOX $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $675

The 9th photo is by J.I.

Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid
Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid
Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid BY JI Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid BY JI Coconut Queen Syagrus hybrid

 

CHAMAEDOREA TEPEJILOTE
SINGLE TRUNK, TALL 
SHADE-LOVING PINNATE PALM


DARK GREEN RINGED TRUNK
OFTEN GROWN AS A "MULTIPLE"
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

This single trunk pinnate palm is native to areas extending from southern Mexico down to Columbia.  They are often grown for food as the male blossoms are cooked and eaten as a delicacy.  This species doesn't take sun here - it'll burn.  But, in shade it thrives in temperatures down to the mid-twenties F.  It is quick growing and has a rather thick, prominently ringed dark green trunk.  Flowers are quite prominent and, if you have several plants closely situated, the chances are you'll obtain fruit without even trying.  One photo shows a flower with green fruit. 

This species can also be grown inside the home as long as the air is not too hot and dry.  I personally like the looks of a collection of several plants grown together.  Over time, as they age and get overhead, there will be some "stair-stepping" of the crowns and this is quite attractive.  Cold tolerance outside is into the mid-twenties F.  It needs filtered light, even when tall.  We have singles and some multiples in our 15 gallon size which we are putting on sale.  They are very nice and really too big for mail order.  For the latter folks, get our 5 gallon size.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL $210

Just mention this Special for your discount.


Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g multiple Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g multiple Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g multiple
Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g multiple Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g multiple Chamaedorea tepejilote 15g multiple
Chamaedorea tepejilote Chamaedorea tepejilote Chamaedorea tepejilote TS RPS

 

WODYETIA BIFURCATA
THE FOXTAIL PALM


THIN TRUNK, FLUFFY GREEN LEAVES
MEDIUM SIZED

TEN DAY SPECIAL 20 GALLON SIZE

The Foxtail Palm, Wodyetia bifuracata, is native to Queensland, Australia and is a single trunk palm.  It gets to about twenty-five feet height, has fluffy green plumose leaves, is crown shafted as shown below and is single trunk.  It has a thin trunk, usually with a mature width of about six to eight inches.  It is a great species for more inland areas that see a fair amount of heat.  It does love heat and sun.  Although some like to plant this species in colonies of two or three plants, it looks great as a stand-alone single palm. Because it wants sun, it should not be put in a shady area.  Cold hardiness is about 23 to 25 degrees F.  I’m putting some 20g plants on sale.  They are too big a pot for mail order.  See them in the first six photos below.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 20 GALLON $400
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $345


Remember:  Mention this Blog Special when you purchase.


WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA
WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA
WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX BEATRICAE
RARE VARIETY OF THE KING PALM

 

SILVER UNDERSIDES TO LEAFLETS
GREEN CROWN SHAFT
SINGLES AND MULTIPLES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

Archontophoenix Alexandrae is native to Australia.  It has green leaves that have silver discoloration to the underside of the leaflets as shown below.  Leaves tend to stay flat without the twist on their axis as seen with the more common King Palm, Archotophoenix cunninghamiana.  Although they are a tad less cold hardy than the latter, they are felt by most to be more beautiful.  Mature height can exceed 50 feet.  The crown shaft with green without the brown discoloration seen with the common King Palm.  Cold hardiness is about 26 degrees F.  They can take coastal sun but half-day sun might give the pretties specimen.  The 15g size shown below demonstrate both the single planting (3rd row below) and multiples (first two rows of photos) with several in a pot.     

REGULAR PRICE 15G $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $200

Remember:  mention this Special to get your discount when you purchase!

Archontophoenix beatricea Archontophoenix beatricea Archontophoenix beatricea
Archontophoenix beatricea Archontophoenix beatricea Archontophoenix beatricea
Archontophoenix alexandrae Archontophoenix alexandrae Archontophoenix alexandrae
Archontophoenix beatricea Archontophoenix beatricea Archontophoenix beatricea

 

DYPSIS PLUMOSA
THIN TRUNK PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

FLUFFY LEAVES – SILVER CROWN SHAFT
TOLERATES SUN ALONG TH COAST
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 15 GALLON PLANT

This single trunk, crown shafted pinnate palm comes from Madagascar.  It is a medium size palm with a narrow trunk and plumose leaves.  Trunk diameter is four to six inches.  The trunk color is silver-green and it has prominent rings.  Leaflets are narrow and green in color.  The ends of the leaves curve downwards.  We have been growing this species for over two decades and found it to be a reliable grower.  When young the trunk is much thinner but fattens up with age.  It is quite cold tolerant, down into the  mid to low 20's F.   It's growth rate is good.  It likes full sun in most areas.  We are offering very tall 15 gallon plants on sale.  The plant shown below is about 12 feet tall – twice the height of most comparable 15g plants.  We do have some multiples which tend to be shorter.  As you can see, they are very tall and too big to ship by UPS.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON THIS SIZE $250
DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $225


Dypsis plumosa Dypsis plumosa Dypsis plumosa
Dypsis plumosa Dypsis plumosa Dypsis plumosa
Dypsis plumosa Dypsis plumosa Dypsis plumosa
Dypsis plumosa Dypsis plumosa Dypsis plumosa

 

HEDYSCEPE CANTERBURYANA
FROM LORD HOWE ISLAND

 
SILVER CROWN SHAFT - SILVER TRUNK
UMBRELLA SHAPED CROWN OF LEAVES
ONE OF PRETTIEST PALM TREES AROUND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

We have available some nice 15g plants of Hedyscepe canterburyana.  This single trunk palm has a silver crown shaft, silver trunk (in shade) with prominent rings.  It is native to medium elevations in the mountains of Lord Howea Island (home of the Kentia Palm).  It is single trunk.  Mature height is about 20 feet.  They fruit here and seeds are large and red in color.  Along our coast here it takes full sun but also does well in part day sun or strong filtered light.  Trunks are beefier in sun.  Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees.  When folks see this plant in person, most agree it is one of the most desirable palms around. 
 We are putting our 15g size on special - shown in first six photos.  This size is about seven years old.  Yes, they are slow growing!  We only have a few left this size.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $220

Remember: Mention this Special for this discount.


Hedyscepe canterburyana 15g Hedyscepe canterburyana 15g Hedyscepe canterburyana 15g
Hedyscepe canterburyana 15g Hedyscepe canterburyana 15g Hedyscepe canterburyana 15g
Hedyscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana  Hedyscepe canterburyana 15g

 

HEDYSCEPE CANTERBURYANA
FROM LORD HOWE ISLAND


SILVER CROWN SHAFT - SILVER TRUNK
UMBRELLA SHAPED CROWN OF LEAVES
ONE OF PRETTIEST PALM TREES AROUND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


FOR DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110

The 5 gallon size is shown in the first six photos.  The 7th photo is a 15g.

 

Hedyscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana
Hedyscepe canterburyana Heydscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana
Hedyscepe canterburyana Heydscepe canterburyana Heydscepe canterburyana

     

CEROXYLON QUINDIUENSE
THE TALLEST PALM IN THE WORLD


SO. AMERICAN - COLUMBIA AND NO. PERU
FAIRLY COLD HARDY - HARD TO FIND SPECIES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE PALMS

This tall, fairly cold hardy palm is native to mountainous regions in Columbia and Peru.  It has been grown by many in colder areas including parts of the coastal San Francisco Bay Area.  It has a gray to white columnar trunk with upright green leaves that have a silver color to the underside.  Trunks show prominent rings and are covered with a waxy material that is used in foods in native localities.  Mature specimens in the wild have been reported to be almost 200 feet tall.  It likes humidity and moisture and can tolerate temperatures into the upper teens F.  It prefers to start growing into filtered light and to work its way into full sun. Our 5g size is shown in the first 7 photos.  The habitat photos are by PalmPedia and Wikipedia.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON SIZE $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 5 GALLON $115

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase to get your discounted price.

Ceroxylon quindiuense 5g Ceroxylon quindiuense 5g Ceroxylon quindiuense 5g
Ceroxylon quindiuense 5g Ceroxylon quindiuense 5g Ceroxylon quindiuense 5g
Ceroxylon quindiuense 5g CEROXYLON QUINDIUENSE JEFF ANDERSON PALMPEDIA  CEROXYLON QUINDIUENSE Wikipedia 

 

SERENOA REPENS
SOUGHT AFTER BLUE FORM


SUCKERING, SEMI-DWARF FAN PALM
VERY COLD HARDY, SUN LOVING
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This suckering fan palm is native to the southeastern gulf states of the U.S. and some adjacent island areas.  Native habitats even extend up into the Carolinas.  It gets to a mature height of six to eight feet.  It loves sun and heat.  Leaf color varies from blue to green or somewhere in-between.  The plants on sale today are in 5 gallon pots but not overly large.  We do have larger, but on this batch are offering a very good price.  It is slow growing and has smaller sized leaves.  It forms a clump over time.  The plants on special are about four years old.  Of note, young plants never show blue - but these plants are just showing it.  Cold hardiness is into the upper teens F.  The last row of photos show plants in gardens or habitat.   

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON THIS SIZE $
100


Remember:  Mention this Blog Special for your discount. 


 
Serenoa repens   Serenoa repens   Serenoa repens  
Serenoa repens   Serenoa repens   Serenoa repens  
Serenoa repens   Serenoa repens   Serenoa repens  

 

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE LADY PALM



ONE OF THE BEST INTERIOR PALMS
ALSO GREAT UNDERSTORY GARDEN PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 5 GALLON SIZE

We have an assortment of Lady Palms which are near perfect - almost as nice as the expensive ones we bring in out of Hawaii.  But, they are locally grown and better priced.  And, we are offering them on special – five gallon size.  They are about 5-6 years old.  Rhapis excelsa is native to Asia and typically doesn't get much over 8 feet tall in a pot or in the ground.  Each leaf is composed mature of six to ten leaflets that have jagged ends and are green in color.  They do great in shady locations of the garden or inside the home.  They are a very nice patio plant.  Cold hardiness is about 20 degrees F.  They want low dose fertilizer.  Too much fertilizer will burn them.  The 5 gallon size can be easily shipped'  It's slow growing and a dwarf species. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110

Important:  Mention this Blog Only Offering for this price when you purchase.  Note, limited supply available.


Rhapis excelsa 5g Rhapis excelsa 5g Rhapis excelsa 5g
Rhapis excelsa 5g Rhapis excelsa 5g Rhapis excelsa 5g
Rhapis excelsa 5g Rhapis excelsa 5g Rhapis excelsa

 

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE LADY PALM 


ONE OF THE BEST INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR PALMS
SIZE ON SALE EASY TO SHIP
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE ONE GALLON PLANTS

FOR DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

REGULAR PRICE THESE 1G $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $55

Important:  Mention this Blog Only Offering for this price when you purchase.  One gallon shown in first 4 photos.

Rhapis excelsa 1g Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa
Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa

 

TRITHRINAX CAMPESTRIS
BLUE, SUCKERING FAN PALM
VERY COLD HARDY


LIMITED NUMBER OLD SUCKERING 5G
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This South American suckering fan palm comes from Argentina and Uruguay.  From these locations, you might suspect it could have quite a bit of cold hardiness, and this is the case with not only this species of Trithrinax, but of the genus as a whole.  Availability of seeds of this species has been sparse to nonexistent.  And, as a young plant, it is quite slow growing.  Consequently, to get a good sized container plant can take a decade or more.  We were fortunate to offer some very nice 5g plants as shown below.  I'd estimate their age at 7 years.  They are dividing and very chunky at the base.  They are totally acclimated to full hot sun and are intensely blue.  This is a perfect selection for someone who lives in an interior area with lots of heat.

Overall height of this species is up to twenty feet.  Multiple stems are produced, but usually the number is just several.  Leaves are small, typically about two feet wide.  The segments of the leaves are pointed and sharp.  Trunks retain old leaf bases but, like
Washingtonia, eventually fall off.  This is a drought tolerant species and can take temperatures well into the 100's F. and cold tolerance is into the teens.  Of note, most specimens I've seen are blue.  The 5g size is shown in the first 5 photos.  The last two photos show a mature plant that is blue-green in color, probably due to the fact that it's not getting full sun.

REGULAR PRICE 5G THIS SPECIES $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110


But, remember to mention this special when purchasing to get this price.


Trithrinax campestris Trithrinax campestris Trithrinax campestris
Trithrinax campestris Trithrinax campestris Trithrinax campestris
Trithrinax campestris
15 gallon size
Trithrinax campestris
garden plant
Trithrinax campestris
garden plant

 

COPERNICIA HOSPITA
THE BLUE CUBAN WAX PALM



EXTREMELY RARE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM
STUNNING BLUE SPECIES

TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE

This difficult to find and beautiful blue fan palm is native to Cuba. Mature trees carry a large number of blue, circular and pleated and flat leaves.  The trunk holds on to old leaf bases for a while but eventually is smooth with about a 12 inch diameter.  Many feel that this, along with other Copernicia, are some of the most beautiful of all fan palms.  Expect a mature height of 20 to 25 feet.  It wants full sun and is cold tolerant to at least a freeze.  We're putting our one gallon plants on special.  Their age is approaching 3 years.  I’d highly recommend getting one as they are near impossible to find.  Easy to mail order.

TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $65


Copernicia hospita Copernicia hospita Copernicia hospita
Copernicia hospita Copernicia hospita Copernicia hospita
Copernicia hospita Copernicia hospita Copernicia hospita

 

ENCEPHALARTOS LATIFRONS - TRAPPES VALLEY
UNBELIEVABLY RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD


MEDIUM SIZED MATURE - GORGEOUS AND DIFFERENT
TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE PLANTS

 

This extremely rare and hard to obtain species is almost extinct in its habitat location in South Africa.   Fewer than a hundred plants remain and specialists say populations are declining.  It has green or blue green leaves.  There are two distinct cultivars of this plant, "Trappes Valley" and " green hills".  Between the two types, the Trappes Valley form is more sought after.  The plants on special are this “Trappes Valley” variety – from seed from domestic parents of both sexes of this form.  This is a green cycad with a distinctive look.  It has large, curved leaves.  Leaflets are typically stacked and have wide, prominent lobes (modified spines) on their margins.  This is a medium sized plant.  Leaves can range in size from a meter to a meter and a half depending on cultivar.  Stems tend can reach  approximately three meters (ancient plant, this is a VERY slow growing species).  It tolerates full sun along the coast and is cold tolerant down to about 22 degrees F.  Please protect it from cold if you get colder than this.

 

We just obtained three juvenile plants from a private collector.  These are about 3 years old and in 5 gallon pots with 2-3 leaves.  Be aware that I just found one leaf new seedlings on line selling for $499.  These are older and at a better price than this.  Be aware these are near impossible to get.

 

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE YOUNG 5 GALLON PLANTS AS SHOWN $425


Encephalartos latifrons seedlings 2-3 leaves 5g Encephalartos latifrons seedlings 2-3 leaves 5g Encephalartos latifrons seedlings 2-3 leaves 5g
Encephalartos latifrons seedlings 2-3 leaves 5g Encephalartos latifrons seedlings 2-3 leaves 5g Encephalartos latifrons seedlings 2-3 leaves 5g
Encephalartos latifrons Encephalartos latifrons Encephalartos latifrons

 

ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII
BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD FOR SUN


GOOD OFFERING OF 15 GALLON PLANTS
CAUDEXES 3.5 TO 6 INCHES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON E. LEHMANNII

This is a popular blue cycad from the Eastern Cape area of South Africa.  I say “popular” because some people don't like spines and prickles.  The leaflets of this species are narrow with only a point at the end.  They are nothing as gnarly as E. horridus.  The leaves and crown are very neat and uniform.  The nearest species to this one is Encephalartos princeps.  Trunks of E. lehmannii can get to five feet, but one with two to three feet of trunk is very old.  Leaves average about four feet long and are strongly curled.  Sometimes they'll almost do a 180 or more degree re-curve.  Leaf color is intensely blue like E. horridus.  But, you'll only see this color with full, hot sun.  In shade or inside a greenhouse they are often green.  Cold hardiness is about 21 to 22 degrees F.  In the desert only give it a few hours sun.  Next to Encephalartos horridus, this is the second most popular cycad we grow.  Shown below is an assortment of 15 gallon plants of this species with caudexes of 3 to 5-6 inches.  We have about a half dozen of them.  All are sun ready.  I am showing some of these 15g below.  The sale price  applies only to plants that are "ball" caudexes with no older vertical trunk.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON THIS SPECIES $150 PER INCH CAUDEX DIAMETER

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SPECIES $130 PER INCH CAUDEX DIAMETER
.

This size can possibly be mail ordered.  This caudex size price applies to plants that do not have vertical trunk height.

  

ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII
ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII Encephalartos lehmannii
ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII

 

ENCEPHALARTOS EUGENE-MARAISII
EXTREMELY ATTRACTIVE BLUE TRANSVAAL CYCAD

 

NATIVE TO SOUTH AFRICA – EXTREMELY RARE

TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This desirable species of Encephalartos comes from the Transvaal region of the northern Republic of South Africa.  This area is also home to other sought-after species like E. dolomiticus, dolomiticus, and nubimontanus.  \Encephalartos eugene-maraisii is a medium to large species with trunk height up to almost ten feet.  It will sucker from the base.  Leaf color is blue or blue-green.  The leaves are sharply keeled giving a "V-shape" in cross section.  Leaf length is two to five feet.  Leaflets are 1/2 to 3/4 inches wide and have a sharp terminal tip.  Encephalartos middleburgensis is a closely related species and was originally felt to be a subspecies of eugene-maraisii.  This is a full sun cycad.  In the wild it commonly sees freezing temperatures.  In culture it is know to tolerate mid to low 20's F.  We are currently putting our band sized plants on sale for ten days. 

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $95

Remember, mention this Blog Only Special.  Easy to mail order.


Encephalartos eugene-maraisii band Encephalartos eugene-maraisii band Encephalartos eugene-maraisii band
Encephalartos eugene-maraisii band Encephalartos eugene-maraisii band Encephalartos eugene-maraisii band
Encephalartos eugene-maraisii Encephalartos eugene-maraisii Encephalartos eugene-maraisii

 

PANDANUS UTILUS
THE SCREW PINE

 

THE BEST AND ONE OF THE FEW PANDANUS GOOD FOR THIS AREA
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS

Pandanus utilus is called the Screw Pine but is not a pine at all.  It's actually a monocot (similar to palms) and native to Madagascar, the Mauritius Islands and some surrounding areas.  It gets it's name by the arrangement of leaves which come off the trunk in spiraling fashion, always the same direction.  Thus, the leaves spin off at different angles in a swirl.  Leaves are rather thin and have spines along the margins.  The trunk on this species is quite amazing.  It forms aerial roots (sausage like) that come to the ground for stability.  Trunks fork and form multiple heads of leaves.  Trunks can also be quite smooth, almost snakeskin-like.  It has large fruit clusters that are bigger than grenades.  But, it is a dioecious species and you need a male and female plant to set viable seeds.  Leaf color is green with a sheen of blue.  Overall height is variable, but old specimens can easily be over thirty feet tall with lots of branches.  It takes sun or part sun.  Cold tolerance is probably in the mid-twenties F.  We are offering only a few 15g as shown that we have in stock.  This is an extremely rare species to find for sale.
 
REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $195


Just mention this blog special when purchasing to get this price.  The only other Pandanus that we’ve had luck with is P. furcatus, which we don’t have available.  All the other species have failed for us outdoors.


 
Pandanus utilis Pandanus utilis  Pandanus utilis 
Pandanus utilis  Pandanus utilis  Pandanus utilis 
Pandanus  Pandanus  Pandanus 

 

PINSTRIPE GINGER
DWARF GINGER WITH WHITE ON GREEN STRIPED LEAVES



NEVER OVER ABOUT FOUR FEET TALL
PARTIAL SUN OR FILTERED LIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


This attractive companion plant has become very popular with our customers.  This is because it has striking variegation on the leaves and never gets too tall.  And, it does quite well in filtered light where other thing gingers can struggle.  Mature height is about four feet.  Cold tolerance is into the upper twenties.  If it suffers from winter burn, the following spring it usually bounces back.  Blossoms are yellow and white (see photo) and not overly large.  We are putting the 15g on sale.
 
REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $195

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $175

Just mention this special when you buy


PINSTRIPE GINGER PINSTRIPE GINGER PINSTRIPE GINGER
PINSTRIPE GINGER PINSTRIPE GINGER PINSTRIPE GINGER
PINSTRIPE GINGER PINSTRIPE GINGER PINSTRIPE GINGER

 

THE SNOWBUSH PLANT
BREYNIA DISTICHA


UNUSUAL GARDEN COMPANION PLANT
SMALLER GREEN, WHITE & PINK BUSH
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 & 5 GALLON SIZES


This sought after smaller bush is native to Asia in various tropical islands.  Contrary to the name, it does not survive if you live in an area where it snows.  Rather, it looks like a green bush with snow on it.  Leaves are green with white accents.  With age you also get a flush of pink.  Leaves are very small.  Mature height it 3 to 4 feet.  This species wants full or part day sun.  Cold tolerance is a bit below a freeze.  This is a very attractive companion plant where one wants an addition of white foliage – perhaps to contrast other colors.   I am putting our 1g and 5g on Special.  Both are nicely sizes and both can be mail ordered.  The one gallon are shown in the first group of photos - the 5g in the second.  We have good numbers available but seldom offer them on sale.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $35

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $65

 

SNOWBUSH Snowbush plant
Snowbush plant Snowbush plant  
Snowbush plant Snowbush plant Snowbush plant
Snowbush plant Snowbush plant  

 

TRICOLOR NEOROGELIA BROMELIAD
GREEN, WHITE AND PINK

EASY COLOR FOR THE GARDEN
OR NICE INTERIOR PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS VARIETY


Neorogelia are one of our favorite types of Bromeliads.  This is because you get color without the need for waiting to see a blossom.  Typically, the mother plant lasts for about a year and then dies off.  But, you then get several small pups forming from the base of the plant and the cycle repeats itself.  So, over time, you'll have a large cluster of many plants.  Most Neorogelia like shade although some will take some sun.  This species has a pink flush on top of variegated white leaves.  We have many attractive Neorogelia for sale.  In the last row of photos below I'll show a few other types and also some garden pictures of bromeliads in the 3rd & 4th rows. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS PLANT SIZE $45 - AS SHOWN BELOW -
LARGER CLUSTERS $75 NOT SHOWN HERE



Neorogelia sp. tri-colored with pink Neorogelia sp. tri-colored with pink Neorogelia sp. tri-colored with pink
Neorogelia sp. tri-colored with pink Neorogelia sp. tri-colored with pink Neorogelia sp. tri-colored with pink
Bromeliads in the Landscape Bromeliads in the Landscape Bromeliads in the Landscape
Neorogelia medusa Neorogelia rafael Neorogelia red throat

 

HAWAIIAN TI PLANTS 
GREAT COLOR FOR THE GARDEN
ASSORTMENT OF NEW VARIETIES AT NURSERY


 

AVAILABILITY CHANGES WEEKLY
SPECIAL ON THESE GORGEOUS PLANTS


Cordyline Hawaiian Ti plants are a great way to add color to the garden.  They easily acclimate to filtered light growing conditions in our area but can be solely acclimated to coastal sun.  Most don't get much over six feet tall.  They have thin trunks and can take a freeze with some damage.  Severe cold will kill them.  Leaf color varies from pastels to reds to green and black.  Shown here four different varieties of different Hawaiian Ti plants.  All are different and there's one that is predominantly pastel colors.  Remember, availability of each type changes ever several days.  

REGULAR PRICE THESE 3 GALLON VARIETIES OF HAWAIIAN TI $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 3 GALLON TI'S $47.50

 

Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa
Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa
Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa
Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa Hawaiian Ti Cordyline fruiticosa

 

WEDNESDAY, 19 OCTOBER, 2022 

BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII
THE MADAGASCAR PLATEAU COCONUT PALM


RARE AND HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER - EASY TO GROW
FULL COASTAL SUN - RE-CURVED GREEN LEAVES

DAY SPECIAL 36 INCH BOX SIZE – 12 TO 14 FEET TALL IN BOX

This species of exotic palm is from the island of Madagascar.  It is the third of three Beccariophoenix species described from this palm-loaded country.  It is so sought after because some feel that it's the prettiest species of the three.  And, because it may possess the best cold hardiness.  I've documented other Beccariophoenix species tolerating temperatures below 25 degrees at our nursery.  So, this species may survive in areas like San Francisco, Phoenix and Houston.  It grows to a height of about thirty feet and does not have a crown shaft.  Leaves are long and minimally curved.  The crown of leaves are densely placed - so it offers privacy and screening of neighbors.  Growth rate is medium in most areas and along the coast it likes sun.  This species is hard to find.  We are offering on Special some massive 36 inch boxed specimens that are over twelve feet tall.  They require delivery b/c of their size.  This size is shown in the first eight photos below followed by one picture of our 15g size.  The habitat photos are c/o TS at RPS and the local specimen is growing in San Diego.
 
TEN DAY SPECIAL MASSIVE 36 INCH BOX SIZE $750

Limited supplies available. 


Beccariophoenix alfredii Beccariophoenix alfredii Beccariophoenix beccariana 36 inch box
bECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII Beccariophoenix beccariana 36 inch box Beccariophoenix beccariana 36 inch box
Beccariophoenix alfredii Beccariophoenix beccariana 36 inch box Beccariophoenix alfredii
Beccariophoenix alfredii RPS Beccariophoenix alfredii RPS bECCARIOPHOENIX

 

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE REGULAR LADY PALM



ONE OF THE BEST INTERIOR PALMS
ALSO GREAT UNDERSTORY GARDEN PLANT
SPECIAL TWENTY YEAR OLD 25G SIZE

We have an assortment of Lady Palms which are near perfect - almost as nice as the expensive ones we bring in out of Hawaii.  But, they are locally grown and better priced.  And, we are offering them on special.  Have you ever wondered why you hardly ever see Rhapis on sale?  It's because they are super slow growing.  The plants shown here are eight, maybe twenty years old.  Therefore, growers have little motivation to sell them cheap.  The plants shown here are nice enough for a bank or hotel lobby, a professional office or even your living room. 

Rhapis excelsa
 is native to Asia and typically doesn't get much over 8 feet tall in a pot.  They do great in shady locations of the garden or inside the home.  They are a very nice patio plant.  Cold hardiness is about 20 degrees F.  They want low dose fertilizer.  Too much fertilizer will burn them.  The plant size below are in 25 gallon pots and have been at the nursery for about 20 years.  This size can have 20 to 30 canes in each pot.  We have only a few this size - and also have the even more rare Rhapis humilis in good sizes.

REGULAR PRICE THESE OLD 25G PLANTS $800
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $650

Important:  Mention this Blog Only Offering for this price when you purchase.  Note, limited supply available.

Rhapis excelsa 25g Rhapis excelsa 25g Rhapis excelsa 25g
Rhapis excelsa 25g Rhapis excelsa 25g Rhapis excelsa 25g
Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa Rhapis excelsa

 

CYPHOPHOENIX ELEGANS
THE ELEGANT PALM

MEDIUM SIZE – THIN TRUNK – CROWN SHAFTED
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This species is from New Caledonia in the northern part of the island.  It is of similar height to C. nucele and has the same trunk diameter.  The crown shaft on C. elegans is slightly more swollen than that of C. nucele.  The crown shaft is also more of a green color, but can show silver.  The leaflets are thinner and, as you can see, the leaves curve downward as opposed to the stiff, upright leaves of nucele.  Another important difference between the two is that the leaves of C. elegans are keeled whereas the leaves of nucele are more flat.  Of note, on both species the bare petiole (stem with no leaves) is very short.  This helps you identify this genus. 

Shown here are our 15 gallon sized plants that I photographed recently.  Also shown are lots of photos of mature plants.  This species should be started in filtered light and be allowed to grow into some sun if you live along the coast.  Inland full sun is too harsh for this species.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $265
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $235

Remember to mention this Special to get this price.  Limited numbers available.  The 2g size is shown in the first five photos.

Cyphophoenix  elegans 15g Cyphophoenix  elegans 15g Cyphophoenix  elegans 15g
Cyphophoenix  elegans 15g Cyphophoenix  elegans 15g Cyphophoenix  elegans 15g
Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans

 

DICTYOSPERMA ALBUM VAR RUBRUM
PRINCESS PALM, HURRICANE PALM



MEDIUM HEIGHT - CROWN SHAFT – THIN TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This is a somewhat rare, collector type of palm that would be attractive in almost any coastal or near-coastal garden.  Native to the Mascarene Islands, this thin trunked, crown shafted palm gets to a height of about 25 feet.  This variety is called "rubrum" because of the red color that is present on the stems and on juvenile leaflets.  One photo shows this below.  The leaves are green, arching and without any spines.  Growth rate is medium.  This is a coastal sun or part day sun species with a cold tolerance in the upper twenties F.  I've had one in my garden for years in San Diego. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $210

Just mention this Blog Special when ordering to get this price.


Dictyospermum album rubrum 15g  Dictyospermum album rubrum 15g  Dictyospermum album rubrum 15g
Dictyospermum album rubrum 15g  Dictyospermum album rubrum 15g  Dictyospermum album rubrum 15g
Dictyospermum album rubrum  Dictyospermum album rubrum Dictyospermum album rubrum

 

DYPSIS LANCEOLATA
NATIVE TO COMORO ISLANDS
USUALLY A SUCKERING PALM



DESIRABLE PALM FROM THE COMOROS
TEN DAY SPECIAL FULL 15 GALLON SIZE

This suckering palm species from the Comoro Islands near Madagascar is ideal for filtered light.  It produces stems about three inches in diameter and typically gets to a height of about fifteen feet in many years.  It usually does sucker but, in my experience, has a limited number of trunks.  Sometimes plants remain single trunk.  The crown shaft areas of large plants often shown an assortment of colors including silver, brown and green.  Leaflets are wide and leaves are a bit keeled.  It has prominent rings on the trunk.  Shown here are 15 gallon plants on special.  We do have other sizes not on sale.  Figure cold tolerance is into the mid to upper 20's F.  These plants can be mail ordered in a large box and there are very limited numbers available. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $225


Dypsis lanceolata 15g Dypsis lanceolata 15g Dypsis lanceolata 15g
Dypsis lanceolata 15g Dypsis lanceolata 15g Dypsis lanceolata 15g
Dypsis lanceolata Dypsis lanceolata dypsis lanceolata

 

CHAMAEDOREA BENZIEI
RARE SINGLE TRUNK CHAMAEDOREA
LIKE C. RADICALIS ON STEROIDS!

 

NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND
15 GALLON SIZE NOW AVAILABLE AND ON 10 DAY SPECIAL

I have not shown this species that often because it's rarely available and very difficult to find - either plants or seeds.  It is native to Mexico at high elevations near Chiapas.  It is a single trunk, understory palm that has sort of a thick trunk up to 1.5 or 2 inches.  The flowers are reminiscent of Chamaedorea radicalis as they shoot high into the foliage.  Its overall appearance is also similar to the trunking radicalis but with bigger leaves, wider leaflets and a thicker trunk.  It gets up to about 10 to 15 feet.  It grows in filtered light and seems to be cold hardy into the mid-twenties at least.  Right on the coastline, some have grown it in full sun.  We have a limited number of 15 gallons available (first six photos) that we're putting on Special.  These can be mail ordered but would require a large box to ship.  Please appreciate that this is a super rare species and is seldom offered for sale. 

REGULAR PRICE 15G $235

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $210


Remember: Mention this Special for your discount.     


Chamaedoreda benizei 15g Chamaedorea benizei 15g Chamaedorea benizei 15g
Chamaedorea benizei 15g Chamaedorea benizei 15g Chamaedorea benizei 15g
Chamaedorea benizei 15g Chamaedorea benziei Chamaedorea benziei

 

CHAMAEDOREA WOODSONIANA
TALL, THICK TRUNK, BEAUTIFUL GREEN PINNATE PALM

 

DOES BEST IN SHADE – STUNNINGLY BEAUTIFUL
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This is a very large, single trunk species that is native to a long range, spanning from Mexico into the northern parts of South America.  It is very sought after by enthusiasts and is known as one of the tallest of all Chamaedoreas - reaching heights of possibly over forty feet.  The trunk has a prominent crownshaft and is four inches thick or more.  It's leaves are four to five feet long with a prominent petiole.  Leaf color is a deep green and, in cross section, the leaves are slightly keeled.  In Southern California, this species prefers shade or a bit of sun.  It has been said that this species cannot take a freeze.  More recent reports suggest this species can tolerate temperatures into the upper 20's F.  It is known to be growing in the San Francisco Bay area.  It is a quick grower and sometimes the base of the trunk is swollen.  Shown in the first six photos are our 5g size which are quite tall and need to go into the garden or be repotted.  Most are 5 feet tall or more in their pots.  We have limited numbers available.  The 7th photo shows the trunk of a 15 gallon plant.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE LARGE 5 GALLON $120

Note:  We only have a few available and they’ll be gone soon.


Chamaedorea woodsoniana 5g Chamaedorea woodsoniana 5g Chamaedorea woodsoniana 5g
Chamaedorea woodsoniana 5g CHAMAEDOREA WOODSONIANA Chamaedorea woodsoniana 5g
Chamaedorea woodsoniana CHAMAEDOREA WOODSONIANA CHAMAEDOREA WOODSONIANA

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX PURPUREA
THE PURPLE CROWN SHAFT KING PALM

 
VERY BEAUTIFUL - GOOD GROWER
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 5 GALLON SIZE

The native home of Archontophoenix purpurea is the Mt. Lewis mountain range in Queensland, Australia.  This species is known for the purple color to the crown shaft.  It is found at an elevation up to 4000 feet.  Mature height is quoted to be over fifty feet, but in habitat and culture I didn't see one this tall.  Cold hardiness is about 25 degrees F.  It takes full coastal sun.  The degree of purple in the crown shaft is variable but never "lollipop" purple.  The underside of the leaves is silver and there is ramenta hairs only on this side.  On younger plants the leaf bases and leaf stem tend to have a yellow color.  I'm showing our 5g size (first 6 photos below) which we're putting on a Ten Day Special.  These are nicely sized for their pots and either single or multiple (more than one per pot).  In the pot they are about four feet tall or a bit more.  We also have other sizes available.  These can be mail ordered. 

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $110


Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase to get this discount.



Archontophoenix purpurea 5g singles, mult Archontophoenix purpurea 5g singles, mult Archontophoenix purpurea 5g singles, mult
Archontophoenix purpurea 5g singles, mult Archontophoenix purpurea 5g singles, mult Archontophoenix purpurea 5g singles, mult
Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea

 

KING PALM
ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA



MEDIUM TO TALL, FULL OR PART DAY SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 4 INCH JUVENILE PLANTS


The popular King Palm is also known as the Piccabeen Palm or Bangalow palm.  It is native to several areas in Australia.  It can in habitat get to sixty feet tall, but in Southern California is usually not over 40 feet tall.  It is crown shafted with a gray trunk.  The crown shaft is green with some brown speckled areas.  Leaf length is 8 to 10 feet.  It is not particularly rare.  Other species of King Palms are.  (we grow them all).  Ramenta is present on the back of the leaflets, a hallmark of this species.  Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F.  The plants below on Special are 2 to 3 year old seedlings in 4 inch pots and easy to mail order.  Some  are multiple but most are singles.  Easy to mail order, weather permitting. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL 4 INCH POT SIZE $37.50

Mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase for this discounted price.  We do have other sizes for sale
.


Archontophoenix cunninghamiana 4 inch Archontophoenix cunninghamiana 4 inch Archontophoenix cunninghamiana 4 inch
Archontophoenix cunninghamiana 4 inch Archontophoenix cunninghamiana 4 inch Archontophoenix cunninghamiana 4 inch
Archontophoenix cunninghamiana Archontophoenix cunninghamiana Archontophoenix cunninghamiana

 

DYPSIS PEMBANA
SINGLE TRUNK OR SUCKERING
NATIVE TO PEMBA ISLAND


TAKES FULL COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS

There are both single trunk and suckering forms of this species.  Nowadays, most of the plants available of this species are the suckering form.  Both get to a height of 25 feet, have an attractive green trunk and a light colored crown shaft.  Leaves have a graceful arch and the leaflet color is green.  It's a great alternative for the garden.  Note how the trunks are beefy but not overly large.  Along our coast it will take part day sun but I'd recommend filtered or morning sun inland.  The plants on special have three to four leaves and are 3 year old seedlings in band containers.  We do larger sizes available.  I cannot tell you whether the plants we have (from seed) are the single or suckering type.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $55
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $47.50

Remember to mention this Blog Special at the time of purchase.  The 8th & 9th photos of a garden plant is c/o  late friend Al Bredeson. 


Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana
Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana
Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana by late AB Dypsis pembana by AB

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX BEATRICAE
AN  UNUSUAL TYPE OF KING PALM


SILVER BACKS TO THE LEAFLETS – GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

Common Name(s):  Alexandra King Palm, Alexandra Palm, the Alex Palm
Native Locality:  Northern and Central Queensland, Australia, both along the coast and inland
Overall Height:  70 to 80 feet in habitat but usually up to 40 feet in domestic gardens in sun
Trunk Diameter:  12 inches, sometimes swollen at the bottom.  Young trunks brown, older gray
Leaf Length:  6 to 10 feet
Leaflets:  Color dark to grass green, silver on the underside
Crown Shaft Color:  Olive green, sometimes a bit brown mixed in.  Slight bulge at bottom occasionally
Presence of Ramenta:  Absent
Flower Color:  White or near white
Seed Size:  1/2 inch
Other Comments:  This species holds a nice large crown of leaves with a tall, gray colored straight trunk.  There is a possible sub-species, that I will discuss below


REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $55
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZDE $45

Remember:  mention this Special to get your discount when you purchase.  The last photo shows a naturalized  colony of this species on the Big Island, the Island of Hawaii. 


Archontophoenix alexandrae band Archontophoenix alexandrae band Archontophoenix alexandrae band
Archontophoenix alexandrae Archontophoenix alexandrae Archontophoenix alexandrae naturalized HI

 

MACROZAMIA RIEDLEI
RARE GREEN CYCAD FROM WESTERN AUSTRALIA

TRUNKLESS OR NEAR-TRUNKLESS SPECIES
TEN DAY SPEECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE


This fairly rare and seldom available green cycad is native to south-western Austailia and is known for forming no trunk or minimal trunk.  Its is rarely over six to eight feet tall.  Leaves are green with fine leaflets.  Leaf length is five to six feet with a gentle arch.  Sometimes leaf color is a gray-green.  Leaves are fairly glossy and it has smaller cones than most other landscape species.  It tolerates full coastal sun and would prefer at least half day sun in most areas.   Cold tolerance is well into the twenties F.  It likes well-draining sandy soil.  We have two 15g plants availabled, both the sam size.  Caudexes are 8 to 9 inches.  Age on these is about fourteen years.  They can be shipped mail order in a large box.  The plants on Special are shown in the first ten photos below, each separately. .

REGULAR PRICE THESE 8 TO 9 INCH SPECIMENS $1050
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15G PLANTS THIS SIZE $850     



Macrozamia riedlei 15g 8 and 9 inches Macrozamia riedlei 15g 8 and 9 inches
Macrozamia riedlei 15g 8 and 9 inches Macrozamia riedlei 15g 8 and 9 inches  
Macrozamia riedlei 15g 8 and 9 inches Macrozamia riedlei 15g 8 and 9 inches Macrozamia riedlei 15g 8 and 9 inches
Macrozamia riedlei 15g 8 and 9 inches Macrozamia riedlei 15g 8 and 9 inches  
Macrozamia riedlei Macrozamia riedlei Wikipedia Macrozamia riedlei

 

MACROZAMIA COMMUNIS
MEDIUM SIZED GREEN CYCAD FROM EASTERN AUSTRALIA


GREAT COOL WEATHER CYCAD FOR MAN AREAS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25G SPECIMEN CYCAD


In contrast to Macrozamia riedlei, this species is from the opposite eastern coast of Australia in the New South Whales district.  There is has a wide distribution extending south to more cool areas. Trunks are rather thick and can be up to six or so feet tall.  Leaves are green with fine pointed leaflets and a leaf length of about six feet.  To get a nice mature speccimen takes 30 years or more.  I'd estimate the cold hardiness to be down to about 20 degrees F. or a bit colder.  It prefers full sun in most areas. On special is a 20 to 25 years old specimen in a 25g pot and a cuadex 12 inches wice and 12 inches tall.  It is shown in the first six photos. The eighth photo is c/o plantsystematics.org website.nn  

REGULAR PRICE THIS 25 GALLON SPECIMEN $1800
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $1400


Macrozamia communis 25g  12 x 12 inches Macrozamia communis 25g  12 x 12 inches Macrozamia communis 25g  12 x 12 inches
Macrozamia communis 25g  12 x 12 inches Macrozamia communis 25g  12 x 12 inches Macrozamia communis 25g  12 x 12 inches
Macrozamia communis macrozamia_communis PLANTSYSTEMATICS.ORG WEBSITE macrozamia_communis

 

ENCEPHALARTOS AEMULANS
GREEN, RARE CYCAD FROM SOUTH AFRICA


CRITICALLY ENDANGERED IN THE WILD
SPECIAL VERY LARGE BAND PLANTS


This species of green South African cycad is a medium sized mature plant with trunks up to about five feet.  They are un-branched and have green leaves that are about five feet long.  The leaves are straight and leaflets point toward the end of the leaf.  In the wild stands in the Natal area of RSA, there are only about a hundred plants remaining.  Shown here in the first row of photos are 4 to 5 year old band plants - very large for their container.  The second row of photos show a huge boxed specimen at our nursery.  The last row shows domestic plants and a close up of the leaflets. 

We're putting older band seedlings on sale.  They'd be easy to mail order.  In our area, this is a full sun plant with a cold hardiness into the low 20's F.

REGULAR PRICE THESE BANDS $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $60


Remember, mention this Special when you order.  We, of course, have other sizes of this species for sale.


Encephalartos aemulans Encephalartos aemulans Encephalartos aemulans
Encephalartos aemulans Encephalartos aemulans Encephalartos aemulans
Encephalartos aemulans Encephalartos aemulans Encephalartos aemulans

 

DIOON MEJIAE
AN ATTRACTIVE MEDIUM SIZED CYCAD

 

SOFT EMERGING NEW LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICELY SIZE OLDER 2 GALLON

For many people, Dioon mejiae is one of their favorite cycads.  It doesn't get too large, it has a very attractive crown of leaves, and newly emerging leaves are soft, fuzzy and so inviting.  They are almost like a baby rabbit's foot.

Native to southern Mexico and Honduras, this species is similar to Dioon spinulosum.  But, unlike the spinulosum, leaflets do not have the spines on the leaflet edges.  And, the leaflets appear slightly different shaped.  Leaves are four to six feet long, trunks typically under five feet although old habitat plants have trunks over twenty feet, and new leaves emerge vertically.  Although they are soft at emergence, they eventually become straight and flat with firm leaflets.. Seeds of this species are large and tan in color.

I've found this cycad does best in part day sun or strong filtered light.  Right on the coast, some grow it in full sun.  But, I've found this creates more of a lime colored green cycad.  For this reason, I prefer filtered light.  It likes good draining soil and will tolerate temperatures into the low 20's F.  Shown her are some larger nursery plants as well as garden specimens.  We have all sizes of this species for sale and are putting oversized 2 gallon on sale.  This size has caudexes about 4 inches in diameter with an age of about ten years.

REGULAR PRICE THESE OVERSIZED 2 GALLON $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 2 GALLON OLDER PLANTS $235

Easy to mail order, weather permitting.


Dioon mejiae 2g 4 inches Dioon mejiae 2g 4 inches Dioon mejiae 2g 4 inches
Dioon mejiae 2g 4 inches Dioon mejiae 2g 4 inches Dioon mejiae 2g 4 inches
Dioon mejiae Dioon mejiae Dioon mejiae

 

FARFUGIUM JAPONICUM AUREOMACULATUM
THE SPOTTED LEOPARD PLANT
FORMERLY KNOWN AS SPOTTED LIGULARIA

 

LILY-LIKE, FLAT GREEN LEAVES WITH YELLOW SPOTS
TAKES SUN - LIKES WATER
SPECIAL NICE 3 & 5 GALLON SIZE

This is a more rare type of Ligularia – with the yellow spots on the leaves.  Otherwise it behaves like the more often seen green type.  It forms small clusters of shiny green leaf plants with prominent yellow spots on the leaves.  Leaves don't get over 18 inches long with the green leaf being eight to ten inches wide maximum.  A single plant can hold twenty or thirty leaves.  Flowers come in the fall are yellow, daisy-like and medium sized.  This species enjoys water and will droop over with too little water.  Then, when given water, they bounce right back.  It's a good "indicator plant" for how well you are watering the garden.  They'll take sun in many areas or part day sun.  In full sun, give them plenty of water.  If you are far inland, plant them in filtered light.  These plants do sucker and are easy to propagate from divisions. This is a great "filler plant" to put in areas where you want something but don't know what to use.  We only have them available from time to time.

REGULAR PRICE 3 & 5 GALLON $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL 3 & 5 GALLON $70


Remember:  mention this Special for your discount when you purchase.


spotted Ligularia japonica spotted Ligularia japonica spotted Ligularia japonica
spotted Ligularia japonica spotted Ligularia japonica spotted Ligularia japonica
spotted Ligularia japonica spotted Ligularia japonica  

 

PANDOREA JASMINOIDES "ROSEA"
CLIMBING VINE, COLD HARDY, EVERGREEN, LARGE FLOWERS

 

WHITE PETAL, PURPLE CENTERS
LARGE  TALL 15G PLANTS ON SPECIAL

This climbing vine is native to Australia and will trellis up a fence or pole or climb up the trunk of a tree.  This variety is hard to find and has large, white, trumpet shaped flowers that have a deep purple-red throat.  There are other color varieties including pure white which we also can offer.  It grows in the shade or sun but flowers better with sun.  It is very cold hardy with reports of it surviving temperatures into the teens F.  These 15g plants are huge for their pots and climbing up a pole.  Plant heights in the pot is about 8 feet.  Remember, this is a vining plant that will climb a fence, free trunk, pole or almost anything.  The 7th photo is c/o gopixpic.com website.

REGULAR PRICE THESE LARGE 15G $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $165

Just mention this Blog Special to get this discount at the time of purchase. 

Pandorea jasminoides Pandorea jasminoides Pandorea jasminoides
Pandorea jasminoides Pandorea jasminoides Pandorea jasminoides
Pandorea jasminoides flkr Pandorea jasminoides PANDOREA JASMINOIDES ROSEA BY gopixpic.com website

 

PANDOREA JASMINOIDES - WHITE
CLIMBING VINE, COLD HARDY, EVERGREEN, LARGE FLOWERS

 

PURE WHITE PETALS
LARGE  TALL 15G PLANTS ON SPECIAL

SEE DESCRIPTION ABOVE

This climbing vine is identical to the "rosea" variety above but has pure white flowers.  It's easy to grow.

REGULAR PRICE THESE LARGE 15G $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $165

Just mention this Blog Special to get this discount at the time of purchase.  The last photo is by Jimmy Turner on Twitter.

  

PANDOREA JASMINOIDES - WHITE PANDOREA JASMINOIDES - WHITE PANDOREA JASMINOIDES - WHITE
PANDOREA JASMINOIDES - WHITE PANDOREA JASMINOIDES - WHITE PANDOREA JASMINOIDES - WHITE
PANDOREA JASMINOIDES - WHITE PANDOREA JASMINOIDES - WHITE BY JIMMY TURNER TWITTER  

 

MONDAY, 17 OCTOBER, 2022 

INTERESTING CYCAD PHOTOS
SPECIES, GARDENS, CHARACTERISTICS

ASSORTED GENERA - RANDOM ORDER
MANY AVAILABLE AT NURSERY


This is a presentation of random cycad photos of interest.  Shown are Nursery, garden and habitat photos with some close up pictures to show plant characteristics.  I'm hoping you'll find this presentation fun and help stimulate your recognition of some of the species.  I'll try in the future to do a follow up of this type of post.

Ceratozamia hildae
Ceratozamia hildae
Ceratozamia species new red leaf
Ceratozamia species -
new red leaf
Encephalartos princeps blue leaf
Encephalartos princeps,
blue leaf

Ceratozamia robusta
Cycas bifida
Cycas bifida 
Dioon califanoi habitat
Dioon califanoi
habitat
Assorted Cycads in Garden
Assorted Cycads in Garden
Assorted Blue Cycads in Garden
Assorted Cycads in Garden - Vista, CA
Ceratozamia mexicana new leaf
Ceratozamia mexicana new leaf
Dioon spinulosum
Dioon spinulosum
Dioon mejiae
Dioon mejiae
Dioon merolae
Dioon merolae
Ceratozamia miquelliana
Ceratozamia miquelliana
Mature Ceratozamia species
 Mature Ceratozamia species
Cycas circinalis
Cycas circinalis 
Ceratozamia robusta female cone
 Ceratozamia robusta
female cone
Cycas bifida leaf closeup
 Cycas bifida leaf closeup
Encephalartos natalensis
 Encephalartos natalensis
Encephalartos arenarius leaflets
 Encephalartos arenarius leaflets
Encephalartos natalensis
 Encephalartos natalensis
Encephalartos ferox red female cone
 Encephalartos ferox
red female cone
zamia_standleyi
 Zamia standleyi
Zamia splendens
 Zamia splendens
Encephalartos longifolius blunt tip
Encephalartos longifolius
blunt tip leaflet 
Encephalartos paucidentatus leaf
 Encephalartos paucidentatus
leaf
Encephalartos villosus male cones
 Encephalartos villosus
male cones
Encephalartos longifolius
 Encephalartos longifolius
Zamia skinneri RM
Zamia skinneri
RM 
Cycas panzhihuaensis
 Cycas panzhihuaensis
Cycas curranii
 Cycas curranii

 

PRESTOEA MONTANA
AKA PRESTOEA ACUMINATA VAR. MONTANA

 

RARE PINNATE PALM FROM PUERTO RICO
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

Prestoea is a genus that is very closely related to another palm genus, Euterpe.  It is found in the Caribbean, Central and South America.  Essentially all Euterpe are crown shafted palms.  Many of the Prestoea are not.  There are also distinctions between the flowers of these two genera.  Also, many of the Prestoea are suckering.  But, there is one that is single trunk.  This is Prestoea montana, native to mountainous areas of Puerto Rico.  I've always known of this species as not having a crown shaft.  But, I've seen photos (including ones from native habitats) where a crown shaft is seen.  

The hallmarks of this species are its wide and very shiny green leaves, its somewhat slender trunk and its overall beautiful appearance.  Plant heights can reach forty feet or more.  This species should be grown in part day sun or filtered light.  It likes rich soil and ample moisture.  I'd estimate its cold tolerance is down to about a freeze or a bit less.  It is not a species for a beginner to try.  We're putting the 15g plants on special.  Note that this species has historically been known as "Prestoea montana" but in more recent years has been considered a variety of P. acuminata.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $210

Remember:  Mention this Special for this price!


Prestoea montana Prestoea montana Prestoea montana
Prestoea montana Prestoea montana Prestoea montana
Prestoea montana Prestoea montana Prestoea montana

 

KING PALM
ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA



MEDIUM TO TALL, FULL OR PART DAY SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL SINGLE 15 GALLON SIZE

The popular King Palm is also known as the Piccabeen Palm or Bangalow palm.  It is native to several areas in Australia.  It can in habitat get to sixty feet tall, but in Southern California is usually not over 40 feet tall.  It is crown shafted with a gray trunk.  The crown shaft is green with some brown speckled areas.  Leaf length is 8 to 10 feet.  It is not particularly rare.  Other species of King Palms are.  (we grow them all).  Ramenta is present on the back of the leaflets, a hallmark of this species.  Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F.  The singles we're putting on sale are in the 15g size.  Be aware, you can plant a single, double or triple.  All do great although the greater the number of plants put in, the slower the growth rate of the clump.  These single 15g plants are about 7 to 8 feet tall in their pots.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $185
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $160


Mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase for this discounted price.  We do have other sizes for sale.


ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA
ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA
ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA

 

BUTIA CAPITATA BLUE
EASY TO GROW, NOT TOO TALL
SUPER BLUE COLOR  - COLD HARDY


TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

For about a decade we've been offering this very desirable and sought after variety of Butia that has a nice blue color.  Otherwise, it's quite similar to the regular gray-green Pindo Palm.  The problem is we always run out of them.  To satisfy our customer demand, we recently got in some more of the 15g size.  But, there are very limited numbers.  We are offering them at one of the best prices we've ever offered.  This palm loves full hot sun and can take down to 15 degrees F.  So, almost all of you can grow this palm.  The row of three palms in the last row are being grown in San Diego, CA, about a half mile from the Bay.  These are cold hardy to about 15 degrees and demand full, hot sun.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $170

Just remember:  Mention this Blog Special for your discount.  We can easily mail order this size. 

 

Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue
Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue
Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue

 

CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
THE FLAME THROWER PALM
NEW RED EMERGING LEAF


DARK GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


What good fortune is it that New Caledonia can claim to be the home of all Chambeyronia.  Included is this species, C. macrocarpa.  It is a slow growing, pinnate, crown shafted palm that gets to a height of about 30 feet.  It has a dark green to green-black crown shaft.  Compare this to C. hookeri above with it's yellow crown shaft.  Leaves are wide, thick and leathery to the touch.  With good culture, maybe you can get three new leaves a year.  About one in twenty plants fail to throw a new red leaf - rather, it remains green.  This is just bad luck and there's no way to predict which will do this.  Shown here are 5 gallon plants we're putting on sale.  We do have larger and smaller sizes available.  Coastal sun is tolerated although strong filtered light is ok for most areas.  This is a great garden palm.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100


Just mention this special when you buy.  I thank TS at RPS for usage of his photo below.

 
CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
Chambeyronia by TS RPS  Chambeyronia macrocarpa  Chambeyronia macrocarpa

CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
THE FLAME THROWER PALM
NEW RED EMERGING LEAF


DARK GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 7 & 15 GALLON SIZE

SEE SPECIES DESCRIPTION ABOVE

We have a limited number of 7 and 15g plants that are also on Special.  See photos below.

REGULAR PRICE 7 & 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE SIZES $210


 
CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA 15g  CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA 15g  CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA 15g 
CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA 15g  CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA 15g  CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA 15g 
 

 

GAUSSIA GOMEZ-POMPAE
BIGGER AND TALLER THAN GAUSSIA MAYA


PINNATE LEAVES, NO CROWN SHAFT
VERY RARE - NEW TO CULTIVATION
 
TEN DAY SPECIAL  5 GALLON SIZED PLANTS

This is a fairly recently described single trunk pinnate palm is from southern Mexico.  There it lives among rugged outcroppings in mountainous areas.  Little is known about its domestic culture.  It gets to heights of over 30 feet with an 8 to 10 inch thick trunk.  It has a clean trunk and no crown shaft.  Leaves are green and fairly straight.  The mature photos below were taken in Miami, Florida where it seems to be doing fine.  I would anticipate that it wont' take temperatures much below a freeze.  But, if you can grow G. maya, I'd suspect you can grow this species.  These plants are a first for the market and the first batch of this species we've ever offered. 

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100


Gaussia gomez-pompae 5g Gaussia gomez-pompae 5g Gaussia gomez-pompae 5g
Gaussia gomez-pompae 5g Gaussia gomez-pompae 5g Gaussia gomez-pompae 5g
Gaussia gomez-pompae Gaussia gomez-pompae Gaussia gomez-pompae

 

DYPSIS BARONII
IDEAL RARE SUCKERING MADAGASCAR PALM


MEDIUM SIZED MATURE – TOLERATES SOME COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 5 GALLON PLANTS

Over the years and having grown between fifty and one hundred different species of Dypsis, I can say that Dypsis baronii is one of the best species of Dypsis for Southern California.  It is a reliably performing plant and quite beautiful.  Palm enthusiasts get real excited about the variety of color seen in the stem, crown shaft and new petioles.  The color in these plant parts varies from red to yellow to powder white.  Eventually, most plants give a silver green trunk with a light colored crown shaft as shown here.  Trunks are several inches thick, leaves are about five to six feet long and overall heights peak out under twenty feet. Right on the coast this species can be grown in full sun although strong filtered light or part day sun is ok too.  Cold tolerance is into the mid and perhaps low 20's F.  Growth rate is slow to medium. 

Availability on this species is variable.  Right now we have 5g sizes available.  They are already suckering and the size as shown.  These can be mail ordered if needed.  Limited supply.  The garden photos were taken in the San Diego area. 

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLO $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110


Dypsis baronii 5g Dypsis baronii 5g Dypsis baronii 5g
Dypsis baronii 5g Dypsis baronii 5g Dypsis baronii 5g
Dypsis baronii Dypsis baronii 5g Dypsis baronii 5g

 

TRITHRINAX ACANTHACOMA
AKA TRITHIRNAX BRASILIENSIS
SPINY TRUNK - MEDIUM HEIGHT FAN PALM


EASILY TOLERATES INTO THE TEENS F.
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE


This single trunk tropical fan palm is noted mostly for its spiny trunk.  The spines are long, randomly directed and almost needle sized.  It is native to South America and gets to a height of about twenty feet.  It likes full sun and is cold hardy into the mid-teens F.  Unlike Trithrinax campestris, the leaflet tips on this species are not sharp nor pointed.  It is a medium rate grower.  These plants are easy to ship.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110

Remember:  Mention this Special when you purchase.  The 5 gallon on sale are shown in the first four pictures below.


Trithrinax acanthicoma Trithrinax acanthicoma Trithrinax acanthicoma
Trithrinax acanthicoma Trithrinax acanthicoma Trithrinax acanthicoma
Trithrinax acanthicoma Trithrinax acanthicoma Trithrinax acanthicoma

 

BUTIA PARAGUAYENSIS
BLUE-GREEN BUTIA FROM SOUTH AMERICA

 

ARCHING LEAVES – MEDIUM HEIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


This species is interesting because, in the wild, it is known as a dwarf species that forms minimal trunk.  But, when it is grown domestically, it forms a trunk about the size of Butia capitata.  It, as you'd guess, comes from Paraguay, with habitat extending into Brazil and northern Argentina.  The color is a blue-green, not as silver as Butia capitata.  The leaves are strongly arched as shown.  It is a full sun plant with cold hardiness into the teens F.  We haven’t had them available for a few years.  We are now offering 5 gallon plants on sale that are about 4 years old.  Culture includes full sun and good draining soil.  Cold hardiness is into the teens F.  I am also showing a photo of a 15g plant from the nursery that is no longer available.   The habitat photo is by TS at RPS

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $85


Butia paraguensis Butia paraguensis 5g Butia paraguensis 5g
Butia paraguensis Butia paraguensis 5g Butia paraguensis
Butia paraguensis Buitia paraguensis Butia paraguensis TS RPS

 

BURRETIOKENTIA HAPALA
A GREAT NEW CALEDONIAN PALM FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA



SUPER ATTRACTIVE CROWN SHAFTED PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON SIZE

Among palm enthusiasts, almost any species from New Caledonia is sought after.  This species falls into that group.  It is a crown shafted palm with a rather thin trunk of about eight inches that gets to a height of approximately 25 to 30 feet.  It has an intriguing brown color to the stems and crown shaft area.  It does not have the stripes you'd see with the Burretiokentia vieilllardii.  Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F, or perhaps a bit less.  So, it's comparable to a King Palm.  If you can grow a King, you can grow this species.  One of the keys to culture is not letting the ground it's in go dry.  This species, like Chambeyronia, responds to water.  Shown below is the five gallon size that I'm putting on special. I'd recommend morning sun, a few hours of mid-day sun, or bright filtered light.  It's a great species to grow.  

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON SIZE $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110 

Remember:  Mention this Special for you discount.


Burretiokentia hapala 5g Burretiokentia hapala 5g Burretiokentia hapala 5g
Burretiokentia hapala 5g Burretiokentia hapala 5g Burretiokentia hapala
Burretiokentia hapala Burretiokentia hapala Burretiokentia hapala

 

CHAMAEDOREA MICROSPADIX
SMALLER TYPE OF BAMBOO PALM



GREEN LEAVES – VERY THIN TRUNKS
BRIGHT RED FRUIT
OVERSIZED 2 GALLON – TEN DAY SPECIAL

This shade loving species is sought after for several reasons:
It doesn't get too tall, rarely over 8 feet tall
It suckers and forms a nice clump
It has good cold tolerance into the upper teens F.
Leaves are sometimes iridescent and sometimes a blue color on their underside

It is a type of Bamboo Palm.  Trunks are very thin, sometimes just a quarter of an inch.  Leaves are short, usually 2 to 3 feet.  On the females with pollination, you’ll get super red but small fruits.  It prefers filtered light, doesn’t get very tall and is cold hardy into the upper teens F.  It also makes an ideal patio or interior palm.

We are presently offering very nice 2 gallon plants on special.  As you can see they are at least 3 feet tall and beginning to sucker.

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON $80
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $70


Just mention this special when purchasing to get this price. 


Chamaedorea microspadix  Chamaedorea microspadix  Chamaedorea microspadix 
Chamaedorea microspadix  Chamaedorea microspadix  Chamaedorea microspadix 
Chamaedorea microspadix  Chamaedorea microspadix   

 

CHAMAEDOREA FRONDOSA
SUPER RARE UNDERSTORY DWARF PALM


SINGLE STEM - BIFID COMPLETE LEAVES
A TRULY UNUSUAL COLLECTOR PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON PLANTS

This is a rare and almost never available single trunk dwarf palm with a mature height of two feet.  Its trunk is very narrow and leaves are plicated (ridged) as shown below.  It is an understory palm and wants filtered light.  It is native to mountain cloud forests in Honduras.  It has a cold tolerance in the mid to upper twenties F. and has been successfully grown by enthusiasts in So California.  We may be one of the only nurseries around offering this species.  You want to give it ample water and to not let it go dry.  It is a dioecious species so you'll need several to get both sexes if you want to produce seeds.  We're offering one gallon on sale and have very limited numbers.  It can be mail ordered.  Our 1 gallon are shown in the first seven photos followed ay older 5 gallon plants.  Because of it's rarity, I don't have any garden photos that are better than our 5 gallon photos.  Mail order should be easy, weather permitting.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE SUPER RARE ONE GALLON SIZE $85

Chamaedorea frondosa 1g Chamaedorea frondosa 1g Chamaedorea frondosa 1g
Chamaedorea frondosa 1g Chamaedorea frondosa 1g Chamaedorea frondosa 1g
Chamaedorea frondosa Chamaedorea frondosa Chamaedorea frondosa 5g

 

ARECA VESTIARIA RED
SUPER RARE AND GORGEOUS TROPICAL PALM

BUT, NOT TOO COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL YOUNG 1 GALLON SIZE

Locality:

Indonesia and Moluccas Islands (East of Indonesia)

Cold Hardiness: 

Not frost tolerant. Tolerates down to perhaps the mid to upper 30s, F.  Difficult to grow except in the best of areas.

Trunk type:

Suckering with beautiful reddish/orange crown shaft. Can have stilt roots.

Leaf type:

Pinnate with irregular segments (leafstalk).

Suckering/Solitary:

Suckering (multiple trunks).

Maintenance:

Somewhat fastidious, but in the right environment easy to grow.  In our area, quite difficult because of cold

Speed of growth:

Medium

Height:

In tropical climates up to 15'-30' feet.

Soil requirements:

Average moisture, good drainage.

Sun Requirements:

Filtered light

General Description:

A great addition to a semitropical or tropical garden.  The red crown shaft is striking and everyone loves this palm.  People in Southern California can marginally grow this in the right areas.

Other Notes:

Very rare.  Once again, a difficult grow outdoors here.


The variety shown has newly emergent red leaves & stems and a prominently red crown shaft.  It's the hardest form to obtain.  We rarely offer them for sale.  The photos below are of the orange form of this species.  I've got no pics of the red form.  But, it's the closest shot you'll have to growing something outdoors in a great area that is similar to the Sealing Wax Palm.  For greenhouse growing here it is drop dead beautiful.

TEN DAY SPECIAL YOUNG 1 GALLON $50

Areca vestiaria red Areca vestiaria red Areca vestiaria red
Areca vestiaria red Areca vestiaria red Areca vestiaria red
Areca vestiaria Areca vestiaria Areca vestiaria

 

SABAL ETONIA
DWARF SABAL SPECIES FROM FLORIDA


NEVER OVER SIX TO EIGHT FEET TALL
MINIMAL TRUNK - DIVIDED FAN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS


This dwarf species of Sabal is different than the more commonly seen Sabal Palmetto.  It is native to Florida, stretching from the Panhandle down through the peninsula.  It forms minimal trunk - one to two meters at most.  Leaves are green and have divided segments.  Growth rate is slow.  Cold tolerance is into the teens F. and they take full sun.  They are very difficult to find for sale.  These are seedling plants.  Figure cold hardiness about 16 degrees F. 

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $50
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $40


Mention this Special for your discount.  The garden photo is from Fairchild Botanical Garden c/o PalmPedia.

Sabal etonia Sabal etonia Sabal etonia
Sabal_etonia by FTG c/o PalmPedia    

 

DYPSIS DECARYI
THE TRIANGLE PALM

MEDIUM MATURE HEIGHT
THREE SIDED CROWN SHAFT – LOVES HOT SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE BAND SIZED PLANTS

This Madagascar palm is known as the "Triangle Palm" because the crown shaft has three flat sides.  It gets to a mature height of about 22 feet in 3 decades.  It loves heat and sun.  Leaves are a gray-green color and there is prominent speckling in the inner crown with dark colors.  It is slow growing.  It has a cold tolerance of about 24 degrees F.  Be aware that this palm doesn’t do well in shade and doesn’t want to be shaded out by overhead trees.  The band sized seedlings are quite large for their pots and need to be repotted into a 5 gallon container.  Easy to mail order.


 REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $55

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $47.50

Mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.  We also have 5g, 15g and 25g plants available


Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi
Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi

 

CARYOTA URENS
THE GIANT MOUNTAIN FISHTAIL
FAST GROWING - SUPER TALL



NOT AVAILABLE FOR YEARS
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS

Caryota urens
is a tall single trunk monocarpic palm species native to Asia.  It is fast growing and can get to a height of 70 feet.  It is definitely a canopy-forming palm species.  Leaves a green and leaflets are premorse (jagged at their ends).  Some people love the grandeur of these palms.  Trunks are tan, ringed and about 16 inches diameter on average.  It will get taller and more quickly get there than almost any other palm in your garden.  They want full sun and, especially if inland, plenty of water.  Because they are monocarpic (flower and then die), one needs a plant that is near death to get seeds.  This occurs rarely.  We were able to germinate seeds from such a plant.  I’ve not had seedlings for six to eight years.  They are on their first leaf and can be mail ordered within the U.S. easily.

TEN DAY SPECIAL SEEDLING CARYOTA URENS $45


Caryota urens band  Caryota urens band   
Caryota urens band  Caryota urens  Caryota urens 

 

SABAL PALMETTO
THE PALMETTO PALM

MEDIUM SIZED GREEN FAN PALM
FAIRLY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This medium to large fan palm is native to the United States and an assortment of Caribbean islands including Cuba.  It's native habitat extends as far north as North Carolina.  It is amazingly salt tolerant.  In Florida you can see it right up into the coastal dunes.  I've seen plants just a few feet from the bay at Tampa Bay and thriving.  Mature height is about 25 feet, sometimes taller. Leaves are green in color and this species has a trunk that has old retained leaf bases below the leaves.  This is a durable, hardy palm with obvious salt tolerance.  It's cold hardiness is into the mid teens F. and it prefers full sun for optimal growth.  However, it does tolerate partial shade.  Also, it can tolerate desert conditions if given adequate water.  Trunks have a "criss-cross" pattern of attached leaf bases.  Later the palm sheds these to show a fairly smooth appearing trunk.  With my comments above, you'd think there are lots of these available in CA.  This is not the case; they are hard to find.  Shown are some band sized plants that we germinated 2 years ago.  Finally, for those of you displaced from South Carolina, you can bring a little of your state to your present location by growing this palm.  Sabal palmetto is your state tree.  We can ship one right to your displaced location.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $55
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $47.50


Sabal palmetto  band Sabal palmetto  band Sabal palmetto  band
Sabal palmetto  band Sabal palmetto  Sabal palmetto

 

ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 

UPRIGHT GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS

This cycad is native to Swaziland, northern South Africa.  It is known as one of the most attractive of all the green cycads.  It does great in Southern California but is rare and hard to find.  New leaves tend to be upright.  Most pronounced is the "frost" appearance of leaves as shown below.  This is from small hairs on the leaflets.  It makes a medium to large mature specimen.  Mature size can be over fifteen feet with 6 to 10 foot green leaves.  Leaflets are armed.  Along the coast it’ll take full sun.  Far inland I’d recommend limited sun.  Cold tolerance is down to the low 20’s F.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE THIS SPECIES $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $65

Below I'm showing photos of a large specimen at the nursery


Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus
Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus
Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus

 

ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS - BLUE VARIETY
RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 


MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - LIKES COASTAL SUN
STUNNING BLUE LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 5 GALLON PLANTS

Encephalartos arenarius is from the coastal dunes and forest close to Alexandria in the Eastern Cape.  This species is small to medium in mature size.  Leaf length can range from one to two meters (i.e. three to six feet approximately) depending on cultivar and exposure to sun.  Like many of the Encephalartos from the Eastern Cape, this species is variable in color, size and leaf type.  E. arenarius can range in color from a dull green to a powdery white color (bearing a likeness to E. horridus). 

The plants we are putting on special are the blue type.  To get this color they will want full sun or an ample amount of sun.  It prefers a well draining soil.  Speed of growth of this cycad is good.  You could expect to have a nice garden sized plant from these 5 gallon plants in about five to seven years.  Caudex size of the plants on sale is approximately 2 inches.  They all have six to seven leaves or more and are four to five years old.  These are showing a bit of their blue color already at this stage and not in sun – so you’ll get blue.  Easy to mail order.  I’m also showing a garden plant and several larger nursery plants.

REGULAR PRICE THESE FIVE GALLON $300
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE 5 GALLON $235

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount when you order.  This size is easy to mail order.

Encephalartos arenarius blue 5g 2 inches Encephalartos arenarius blue 5g 2 inches Encephalartos arenarius blue 5g 2 inches
Encephalartos arenarius blue 5g 2 inches Encephalartos arenarius blue 5g 2 inches Encephalartos arenarius blue

 

ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS - BLUE VARIETY
RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 
MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - LIKES COASTAL SUN
STUNNING BLUE TO BLUE-GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $60

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount when you purchase.  


Encephalartos arenarius band Encephalartos arenarius band Encephalartos arenarius band
Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius

 

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS – BLUE FORM
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 

BLUE STACKED LEAFLETS - MINIMAL IF ANY SPINES
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This rare South African cycad is also from the Eastern Cape region of South Africa.  It is a good sized cycad with leaf color variable from dark green to brilliant blue.  The seedlings on sale should be a nice blue form.  Trunks can reach a height of twelve feet or more.  Leaf lengths are four to six feet with stacking leaflets and minimal if any spines when mature.  Leaves are often curled downward toward their ends.  It loves full sun along the coast but in desert areas would want a few hours of sun.  Cold tolerance is about 22 degrees F.   The seedlings on sale are in band containers (3 x 3 x 9 inches).   They’d benefit from a year or two in a one or two gallon pot before putting them in the ground.  They are easy to mail order within the U.S.  The band size is shown in the first six photos.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $55

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase to get this price! 


 
Encephalartos longifolius blue  Encephalartos longifolius blue  Encephalartos longifolius blue 
Encephalartos longifolius blue  Encephalartos longifolius blue  Encephalartos longifolius blue 
Encephalartos longifolius blue Encephalartos longifolius blue  Encephalartos longifolius blue 

 

VARIEGATED SHELL GINGER
ALPINIA ZERUMBET


DISTINCTIVE VARIEGATED YELLOW & GREEN LEAVES
EASY TO GROW TROPICAL WITH COLORFUL FLOWERS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 20 GALLON PLANTS

This is a super popular variety of ginger that blossoms in the summer.  It is native to Asia.  Blossoms are white with yellow and red throats.  Blossoms are not fragrant.  Blossoms hang downward compared to the upright blossoms of Hedychium Gingers like the Kahili Ginger.  Mature height of these plants is six to seven feet.  The leaves are prominently variegated with lighter green and yellow.  Blossoms are long lived, lasting at least a month.  Blossoms occur during the summer.  I think they do best in part day sun although right on the coast folks grow them in full sun.  Cold tolerance is one of the better for ginger, probably the mid-twenties F.  The 20 gallons on sale have many canes and are ready to be planted in the ground.  They will blossom in no time.


REGULAR PRICE 20 GALLON $350
TEN DAY SPECIAL 20 GALLON $310

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON (NOT SHOWN) $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $175


Just mention this Blog Special to get your discount.


Variegated Shell Ginger Variegated Shell Ginger Variegated Shell Ginger
Variegated Shell Ginger Variegated Shell Ginger Variegated Shell Ginger
Variegated Shell Ginger Variegated Shell Ginger Variegated Shell Ginger

 

PHILODENDRON SELLOUM
AKA PHILODEDRON BIPINNATIFIDUM

 

GIANT SPLIT LEAF PHILODENDRON
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 & 15 GALLON SIZE


Throughout my career, I've always known this plant as Philodendron selloum.  The same is true for most nurserymen.  But, when researching it, I've found lots of other names and even genera used to taxonomically identify this species.  So, keeping it simple, I'll not go there but rather say that this is a large leaf Philodendron that can climb up a tree trunk or stand alone all by itself.  It is native to South America.  It can grow in coastal sun or in the shade.  It's got a trunk that is usually six inches thick or less and puts out thick hanging roots that assist in grabbing anything to support the crown.  Leaves are green, heavily divided and can be four feet long and three feet wide.  Leaves are not as large as the much more rare Philodendron evansii.  Selloum is easy to grow.  We're offering nicely sized 5 & 15 gallon on sale.  The 15g size is shown in the last photo.  The rest of the nursery plants are 5g.


REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $85

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $70


REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $175

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $150


 
Philodendron selloum 5g   Philodendron selloum 5g   Philodendron selloum 5g  
Philodendron selloum 5g   Philodendron selloum  Philodendron selloum 
Philodendron selloum  Philodendron selloum  Philodendron selloum 

  

FARFUGIUM JAPONICUM "SHISHI BOTAN"
THE RUFFLED LIGULARIA



RUFFLED, FRILLY LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON PLANTS


Most of you are familiar with the regular Ligularia that we offer at this Blog.  This rare variety on special today has ruffled, frilly leaves and is quite attractive.  It gets to a height of 18 inches, takes sun or shade and has yellow daisy-like flowers in the late Fall.  They are also an "indicator" plant and tell you when the garden is going dry.  Watering these immediately corrects this.  Compared to the standard Ligularia, the leaves are quite different with curly and frill leaf edges.  These are easy to grow and easy to ship. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $35


Note that we also have 5 gallon size available.

Ligularia japonica farfugium shishi boton Ligularia japonica farfugium shishi boton Ligularia japonica farfugium shishi boton
Ligularia japonica farfugium shishi boton Ligularia japonica farfugium shishi boton Ligularia japonica farfugium shishi boton

 

BILBERGIA CLUSTERS WITH CASCADING PINK BLOSSOMS
IN BLOSSOM RIGHT NOW


GREEN LEAVES - SUN TOLERANT
LARGE CLUSTERS ON TEN DAY SPECIAL

This bromeliad genus is known for it's dependent and large pink blossoms.  The leaves on this species are green forming a tubular plant.  The blossoms are 18 inches long, cascading and pink in color with blue flower parts showing below.  They are very durable and easy to grow.  They want at least some sun but can be grown in the sun.  They want overhead watering.  These clusters each have five to ten individual plants in the pots.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE LARGE CLUSTERS $75

Bilbergia cluster in blossom pink 5g   Bilbergia cluster in blossom pink 5g   Bilbergia cluster in blossom pink 5g  
Bilbergia cluster in blossom pink 5g   Bilbergia cluster in blossom pink 5g   Bilbergia cluster in blossom pink 5g  

 

FRIDAY, 14 OCTOBER, 2022 

DIOON SPINULOSUM
A CUSTOMER FAVORITE CYCAD



GREEN LEAVES, ELEGANT
LOTS OF SIZES TO CHOOSE FROM


Although you can't tell from the photos here, this cycad species can get quite tall.  I've seen photos from habitat with what appears to be over 20 feet of trunk.  Dioon spinulosum is native to tropical areas in Mexico where it grows in limestone forests.  Trunks don't get overly thick, typically 12 to 14 inches thick.  With age, this can be more.  Leaves are green and mildly armed.  Leaf length is about six feet.  My preference is to grow this species in filtered light.  Cold tolerance is into the mid twenties F.  Be aware, to get a foot or two of trunk can take a few decades.  At the nursery we usually have a good selection of this species from small to large.  Photos below shown some nursery plants as well as plants in gardens.
 

Dioon spinulosum Dioon spinulosum Dioon spinulosum
Dioon spinulosum  Dioon spinulosum  dIOON SPINULOSUM
Dioon spinulosum Dioon spinulosum  Dioon spinulosum 

 

ALOCASIA "BLACK STEM
UNDERSTORY EXOTIC COMPANION PLANT




SUPER COOL BLACK STEMS
LIMITED NUMBERS


From a private grower we have gotten in this really impressive Alocasia that struck my fancy.  It has super dark, essentially black stems.  And, the black continues up into the leaf on the underside veins.  We tried one outdoors about two months ago - sort of an experiment to see how it would do with winter.  And, it had no damage with our low this year at 34 degrees F.  So, I got the last two or three to offer to customers.  These are in 5g pots and stand about four feet tall.  I anticipate it'll be an understory plant with filtered light.  I suspect a freeze would damage them.  Although just a guess, I'd say mature height will be about six feet.  No one knows presently the species name of this plant.  As mentioned, this variety is available only for a short time and in very limited number.

Alocasia black stem Alocasia black stem Alocasia black stem
Alocasia black stem Alocasia black stem
Alocasia black stem Alocasia black stem  

 

CHAMAEDOREA HOOPERIANA
BAMBOO PALM THAT IS TALL AND FULL



STRONG & LARGE  10 & 15 GALLON PLANTS
ALMOST SOLD OUT OF THESE
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE PLANTS


It's not that uncommon that I'll talk about various types of Bamboo Palms.  Three decades ago this species (Chamaedorea hooperiana) would have probably been called a variety of Chamaedorea costaricana But, in his book on Chamaedorea, Don Hodel described this species named after friend and palm enthusiast Louis Hooper.  So, it now enjoys its own status as a species.  And, it deserved species status because it is quite different than Chamaedorea costaricana.  This species is native to high elevation rain forest in the Veracruz area of Mexico.  It grows at up to 5000 feet elevation in habitat.  

It reaches an overall height of twelve to fourteen feet.  It is also quite wide at maturity with many canes.  These canes will sometimes lean outwards, making the clump wider.  Trunks are about one inch thick.  Compared to Chamaedorea costaricana, this species is more full and wide.  It's hard to "see through" this species whereas you'd have a better chance of seeing through a costaricana.  Both are suckering types of Bamboo Palms.  Also, the leaves of costaricana are shorter. Hooperiana leaves are four feet long or more.

Shown here is one of our ten or fifteen gallon plants.  This species likes good draining soil, adequate water, filtered light and is cold hardy to the low 20's F.  It is an ideal patio plant and can be grown inside the home.

REGULAR PRICE HUGE 10 or 15 GALLON $325
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE SIZES $285

Mention this Special to get your discount.  BTW, these are not easy to find on the market.  I'm showing you a large and old 25g plant at the nursery.  The garden photo is by T.S. at RPS.

READ MORE ABOUT THE BAMBOO PALMS

Chamaedorea hooperiana Chamaedorea hooperiana
Chamaedorea hooperiana Chamaedorea hooperiana Chamaedorea hooperiana
Chamaedorea hooperiana Chamaedorea hooperiana TS RPS Chamaedorea hooperiana

 

TALL INTERIOR QUALITY KENTIA PALMS
HOWEA FORSTERIANA

ELEGANT, GREEN LEAVES, THINNER TRUNKS
TEN DAY SPECIAL TALL SQUAT 15G SIZE


Our major focus with the Howea forsteriana has been historically dealing with their usage in landscape.  But, this species - The Kentia Palm - is also an excellent house plant.  We get calls about obtaining them for hotel lobbies, restaurants, and upscale business offices.  Inside the home or facility they tolerate adequate light but don't demand being in front of a window.  Leaves are elegant, dark green and have a gentle arch.  Trunks are thin.  The squat 15g are interior quality with stretched upward leaves.  This is what interior designers seek.  These are too tall for mail order.  They are in squat 15g pots and 8 to 10 feet tall in their pots.  Almost all are multiples with two to three plants per pot.  Sorry, but I don't have any good photos of this palm in an interior application.

TEN DAY SPECIAL INTERIOR QUALITY SQUAT 15G $350 

Howea forsteriana tall squat 15g July Howea forsteriana tall squat 15g Howea forsteriana tall squat 15g
Howea forsteriana tall squat 15g Howea forsteriana tall squat 15g
Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana

 

ARENGA MICRANTHA 
LARGE SUCKERING PINNATE PALM FROM INDIA THAT TOLERATES SIGNIFICANT COLD


GREEN LEAVES WITH SILVER BACKS
IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON THE FEW 15 GALLON WE HAVE LEFT

This morning I'm showing you an impossible to find suckering palm from northern India, Tibet and surrounding areas.  Quite remarkably, its native habitat is at elevations of 5000 to 7500 feet.  As you'd suspect, it tolerates temperatures way below freezing, probably into the upper teens F.  I don't really know for sure as of yet.  But, it's felt to be the most cold hardy of the genus Arenga.  It's not a small Arenga.  It can get up to 20 feet with trunks about 8 inches (mature) in diameter.  Like other species of the genus, the trunks are hairy and a bit shaggy.  Leaves are large and silver colored on their underside.  It is a part day sun or filtered light species.

Shown here is a 15 gallon nursery plant.  These were grown from seeds that we got over ten years ago.  Yes, they are slow growing.  A habitat photo by T. Spanner is also shown.  For those of you in colder areas, this is a great palm.  We only have a few left for sale.  Mail order possible in a large box.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $325
TEN DAY SPECIAL OUR LAST FEW PLANTS $275

Arenga micrantha 15g Arenga micrantha 15g Arenga micrantha 15g
Arenga micrantha 15g Arenga micrantha 15g Arenga micrantha 15g
Arenga micrantha 25g Arenga micrantha 15g ts rps  

 

CHAMAEDOREA ARENBERGIANA
SINGLE TRUNK UNDERSTORY PALM WITH WIDE LEAFLETS

MEDIUM HEIGHT MATURE - PROMINENT TRUNK RINGS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This single trunk species is from Mexico and Central America.  It is pinnate like other Chamaedoreas with a trunk diameter of an inch or a bit more.  The leaves a five feet long with wide leaflets and prominent drip tips.  It  prefers moist but good draining soil.  The trunks are dark green and prominent trunk rings are present.  Mature height is about 12 feet.  Low temperatures tolerated are about to a freeze and this species likes filtered light.  A photo below shows the unusual clustering of seeds on a female flower attached to the trunk below the leaves.  These seeds are green and have not yet turned color. 

REGULAR PRICE 15G $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $200

 

 

Chamaedorea arenbergiana 15g Chamaedorea arenbergiana 15gChamaedorea arenbergiana 15g  
Chamaedorea arenbergiana Chamaedorea arenbergianaChamaedorea arenbergiana  

 

HYOPHORBE VERSCHAFELTII
THE SPINDLE PALM WITH ITS CIGAR SHAPED TRUNK

EXOTIC, UNUSUAL APPEARING AND RARE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE


Hyophorbe verschafeltii is known as the Spindle Palm.  It is closely related to Hyophorbe lagenicaulis, the Bottle Palm.  But, the Spindle Palm is a bit more cold hardy and therefore the one that is a better choice for Southern California.  Most Bottle Palms don’t survive in this ara.  Both are native to the Mascarene Islands.  Mature height in many decades is fifteen feet or a bit more.  On the trunk, the Spindle Palm has the bulge off the ground, somewhere in the middle of a mature trunk.  The Bottle Palm swells at the base and above this gets more narrow.  Cold tolerance of the Spindle Palm is about freezing.  The Bottle Palm gets into trouble below thirty-five degrees.  This small difference makes a huge difference for growers.   This species wants full sun along the coast.  Shown below is our 15 gallon size which we’ve put on special.  They are very nicely sized. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $265
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $235

We only have limited numbers available. 


Hyohorbe verschafeltii Hyohorbe verschafeltii Hyohorbe verschafeltii
Hyohorbe verschafeltii Hyohorbe verschafeltii Hyohorbe verschafeltii
Hyohorbe verschafeltii Hyophorbe verschafeltii Hyophorbe verschafeltii

 

ARENGA MICRANTHA 
LARGE SUCKERING PINNATE PALM FROM INDIA THAT TOLERATES SIGNIFICANT COLD


GREEN LEAVES WITH SILVER BACKS
IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON THE FEW 15 GALLON WE HAVE LEFT

This morning I'm showing you an impossible to find suckering palm from northern India, Tibet and surrounding areas.  Quite remarkably, its native habitat is at elevations of 5000 to 7500 feet.  As you'd suspect, it tolerates temperatures way below freezing, probably into the upper teens F.  I don't really know for sure as of yet.  But, it's felt to be the most cold hardy of the genus Arenga.  It's not a small Arenga.  It can get up to 20 feet with trunks about 8 inches (mature) in diameter.  Like other species of the genus, the trunks are hairy and a bit shaggy.  Leaves are large and silver colored on their underside.  It is a part day sun or filtered light species.

Shown here is a 15 gallon nursery plant.  These were grown from seeds that we got over ten years ago.  Yes, they are slow growing.  A habitat photo by T. Spanner is also shown.  For those of you in colder areas, this is a great palm.  We only have a few left for sale.  Mail order possible in a large box.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $325
TEN DAY SPECIAL OUR LAST FEW PLANTS $275

Arenga micrantha 15g Arenga micrantha 15g Arenga micrantha 15g
Arenga micrantha 15g Arenga micrantha 15g Arenga micrantha 15g
Arenga micrantha 25g Arenga micrantha 15g ts rps  

 

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM


TALL, SINGLE TRUNK SPECIES
ELEGANT WITH LONG CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This super popular palm is native to south Florida and Cuba.  It gets a very tall trunk with a height of forty feet or more.  The crown shaft is long and a prominent green.  The base of the trunk is swollen just above the ground.  Often, you'll also see bulging in the mid-trunk.  It is a full sun plant and some are growing it in desert areas with success - in full sun.  Cold tolerance is like a King Palm, about 25 degrees F.  The 5 gallon we have are about four feet tall height in their pots.  Basal diameter is about 2 inches.  We also have 15g and bands.  We are hoping to offer larger sizes than shown here shortly.  There's a shortage of this species on the California market.  The Royal in the 8th photo was taken in San Diego.  
 
REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 5 GALLON $110

Mention this Special for your discount. 

READ MORE ABOUT ROYAL PALMS


Roystonea regia Roystonea regia Roystonea regia
Roystonea regia Roystonea regia Roystonea regia
Roystonea regia Roystonea regia Roystonea regia

 

VEITCHIA (ADONIDIA) MERRILLII HYBRID
POTENTIAL TO GROW SOMETHING THAT CAN'T BE GROWN HERE


VERY EXCITING – ONLY NURSERY TO OFFER THIS PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 5 GALLON SIZE

There is an interesting story behind the plants I'm showing you here.  About five years ago, we got some seeds from a botanical garden that were labeled as Veitchia merrillii (aka Adonidia merrillii).  This palm resembles a miniature Royal Palm, so it is a popular choice by enthusiasts who see it in tropical areas.  Rarely does it get over twenty feet tall and many people like this smaller size.  But, native to the Philippines, you might expect it'd be too tropical and cold sensitive to grow here.  Well, that is the case and I don't know of one mature tree in Southern California. 

The seeds we got were thought to be pure Veitchia merrillii.  The seeds looked to be the right size for merrillii - the anticipated small size as you see with this species.  Seeds of other Veitchia species are much larger.  Of the fifty or so seeds that germinated, about half died off quickly in our greenhouses the first winter.  We figured - that makes sense - cold sensitive.  But, to our surprise, the other half grew quite well.  As they got bigger, it was apparent that they looked nothing like a true species Veitchia merrillii we have grown in the past.  The prominent speckling and dark color to the leaf stems was not expected - merrillii is plain green usually.  And, there is a diversity of appearance of the various plants we were now growing. 

We figure these are a hybrid of a Veitchia merrillii crossed with something else.  Most likely it's with another species of Veitchia that are more cold tolerant.  This is to our customer's benefit as this means perhaps they can grow these and end up with a smaller palm that resembles V. merrillii.  We have a limited number of these plants left.  They’ve gotten bigger and all have survived a freeze at our nursery.  So, maybe here’s your chance to grow a “Veitchia merrillii hybrid” 

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON THIS HYBRID $165
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 5 GALLON $135

Remember:  Mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.  Obviously, I have no mature garden plants to show you as this is such a rare hybrid.  But, I’m showing in the last row of photos the Veitchia merrillii and finally the Veitchia arecina.  This is probably your last chance to get one of these hybrids.


veitchia merrilli hybrid veitchia merrilli hybrid veitchia merrilli hybrid
veitchia merrilli hybrid veitchia merrilli hybrid veitchia merrilli hybrid
Veitchia merrillii Veitchia merrillii in fruit Veitchia arecina

 

CHAMAEDOREA COSTARICANA
ONE OF THE BEST BAMBOO PALMS


EASY TO GROW - A GREAT INTERIOR PALM 
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This suckering palm species is native to Mexico and Central America.  It is one of about four types of "Bamboo Palms" and is probably either the best or in a stiff competition with Chamaedorea hooperiana.  This species gets to a mature height of twelve to sixteen feet, has strong 1 inch to 1.5 inch trunks which are green in color with prominent rings, and about three to four foot long leaves.  It is an upright grower and does clump.  It doesn't run.  It takes filtered light or morning sun along the coast.  I've even heard of some growing it in full sun although I'd not recommend it.  It is a good growing species.  Cold hardiness is into the mid to lower 20's F. 

Below I'm showing in the first six photos the 5g size which we’re putting on sale.  This size can be mail ordered no problem.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110

Remember:  Mention this Special for this Blog Only discounted price.  


Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana
Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana
Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana

 

RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII
BEAUTIFUL GREEN CROWN SHAFTED PALM

 

TOLERATES A FAIR AMOUNT OF COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


Rhopalostylis  cheesemanii 
is from Roul Island in the Kermadecs.  It reportedly has darker brown tomentum on the crown shaft and petioles compared to
 R. baueri and the fruits are larger in size.  But, the most remarkable thing is that some enthusiasts have noticed is that it is a more aggressive grower in Southern California.  It is a green leafed, single trunk pinnate palm with a crown shaft.  Opposed to R. baueri, it has been known to do quite well in full sun right along the coast.  One of our staff, Rusty, swears by this species and thinks it's far superior to other Rhopalostylis.  In his yard it has grown at a phenomenal rate.  The pictures here show the darker petioles compared to R. sapida.  I have limited photos of larger garden plants.  Be aware that many people feel this should be considered a sub-variety of Rhopalostylis baueri.  Growth rate of this species is medium at best.  It is a stunning palm when mature.  The 5 gallon size can be shipped.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110


The 8th photo below is by Cloudforest.com website.

Rhopalostylis cheesemanii 5g Rhopalostylis cheesemanii 5g Rhopalostylis cheesemanii 5g
Rhopalostylis cheesemanii 5g Rhopalostylis cheesemanii 5g Rhopalostylis cheesemanii 5g
Rhopalostylis cheesemanii 5g Rhopalostylis cheesemanii by Cloudforest.com website Rhopalostylis cheesemanii 5g

 

CYPHOPHOENIX ELEGANS
THE ELEGANT PALM

MEDIUM SIZE – THIN TRUNK – CROWN SHAFTED
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON SIZE


This species is from New Caledonia in the northern part of the island.  It is of similar height to C. nucele and has the same trunk diameter.  The crown shaft on C. elegans is slightly more swollen than that of C. nucele.  The crown shaft is also more of a green color, but can show silver.  The leaflets are thinner and, as you can see, the leaves curve downward as opposed to the stiff, upright leaves of nucele.  Another important difference between the two is that the leaves of C. elegans are keeled whereas the leaves of nucele are more flat.  Of note, on both species the bare petiole (stem with no leaves) is very short.  This helps you identify this genus. 

Shown here are our 2 gallon sized plants that I photographed recently.  Also shown are lots of photos of mature plants.  This species should be started in filtered light and be allowed to grow into some sun if you live along the coast.  Inland full sun is too harsh for this species.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F.

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON $80
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $70

Remember to mention this Special to get this price.  Limited numbers available.  The 2g size is shown in the first five photos.


Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans
Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans
Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans

 

SABAL ROSEI
GREEN FAN PALM FROM MEXICO


MEDIUM TO TALL MATURE HEIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON SIZE


This majestic and rather tall fan palm is native to Mexico and get a mature height of 40 feet or a bit more in decades.  But, the trunk is rather thin - averaging 8 to 12 inches.  Retained leaf bases eventually fall off given it a smooth trunk with knobby areas of old leaf-base scars.  The leaves are large and green in color.  It prefers full sun and is cold  hardy to about 20 degrees F. or a bit colder.  We're putting our 2 gallon size on special - easy to mail order

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON $80
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON $67.50

sabal rosei sabal rosei sabal rosei
sabal rosei sabal rosei sabal rosei
sabal rosei sabal rosei sabal rosei

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX PURPUREA
THE PURPLE CROWN SHAFT KING PALM

 
VERY BEAUTIFUL - GOOD GROWER
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 1 GALLON SIZE

The native home of Archontophoenix purpurea is the Mt. Lewis mountain range in Queensland, Australia.  This species is known for the purple color to the crown shaft.  It is found at an elevation up to 4000 feet.  Mature height is quoted to be over fifty feet, but in habitat and culture I didn't see one this tall.  Cold hardiness is about 25 degrees F.  It takes full coastal sun.  The degree of purple in the crown shaft is variable but never "lollipop" purple.  The underside of the leaves is silver and there is ramenta hairs only on this side.  On younger plants the leaf bases and leaf stem tend to have a yellow color.  I'm showing our 5g size (first 4 photos below) which we're putting on a Ten Day Special.  These are nicely sized for their pots and either single or multiple (more than one per pot).  We also have other sizes. These one gallons are about two feet tall in their pots and can be male ordered. 

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $55


Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase to get this discount.


Archontophoenix purpurea 1g Archontophoenix purpurea 1g Archontophoenix purpurea 1g
Archontophoenix purpurea 1g Archontophoenix purpurea  Archontophoenix purpurea

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX "TERACARPA"
THE BEST KING PALM EVER!


BIGGER, FASTER GROWING, NO BROWNING OF LEAFLETS
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE BAND SIZE PLANTS


Archontophoenix teracarpa is a fictitious name given to an unknown species/type of King Palm that I have in my garden and no one can identify.  I've been collecting seeds from it for quite a few years and offering it for sale.  Everyone who gets one agrees - "It's the best King Palm ever!"  It got the name from the Latin "Large body", which it has.  After trying to identify the species over many years and with no success, we coined the name "Archontophoenix teracarpa".  The closest species to it would be A. maxima but it's not the same.  So, what are the differences that makes teracarpa more ideal?

It is faster growing
It gets taller than the regular King Palm
It tolerates full sun better
It doesn't brown tip in full sun
It has a blue crown shaft
It has a super thick trunk

The band size plants are about 3-4 years old and huge – about 2 feet tall and need to be planted or repotted into 5g pots.

REGULAR PRICE THESE HUGE BANDS $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE HUGE BANDS $50

Remember:  mention this Special to get your discount when you purchase!


Archontophoenix teracarpa band huge Archontophoenix teracarpa band huge Archontophoenix teracarpa band huge
Archontophoenix teracarpa band huge Archontophoenix teracarpa Archontophoenix teracarpa

 

CYCAS THOUARSII
MEDIUM SIZED - SOFT GREEN LEAVES
FAST GROWING, EXOTIC APPEARING


TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT


The first six photos here show a plant I'm putting on special.  This is a very nice 15gallon plant with a caudex that is approximately 5 x 18 inches and probably an age of about 12 to 15 years.  It came from a collection of container grown plant that were outdoors in Orange County, CA.  Below the plant for sale are garden photos.  This species is native to Madagascar, the eastern coast of Africa and the Comoro Islands.  It is a fast growing species gets to a native height of sometimes twenty feet or more.  Plants grown domestically are typically ten feet or a bit more in California.  This species trunks are about eight to ten inches thick with leaves five to six feet long and soft to the touch.  There is small armor on the leaf stem, but the leaflets have no spines.  Leaf color is green to blue-green. 

Along the coast this species tolerates full sun.  Far inland areas should utilize filtered light or morning sun.  Cold hardiness is into the low 20's F.  We have a whole assortment of sizes available including nice 5g plants and larger.  We have about five in the 15g size.  Shipping possible.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $650

Remember:  Mention this special for this great price!


Cycas thouarsii 15g 18 inches Cycas thouarsii 15g 18 inches Cycas thouarsii 15g 18 inches
Cycas thouarsii 15g 18 inches Cycas thouarsii 15g 18 inches Cycas thouarsii 15g 18 inches
Cycas thouarsii Cycas thouarsii Cycas thouarsii

 

ENCEPHALARTOS HILDEBRANDTII
LARGE SIZED GREEN CYCAD

UPRIGHT LEAVES – GOOD GROWER
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE
.

This species has a fairly wide distribution in the coastal regions of Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar Island (Tanzania) and into northern Mozambique.  Its habitat consists of rocky, sandy soil in dry coastal forest and bush.  This is a large sized species.  Leaves can reach three meters in length.  Over many centuries, stems become quite wide and can reach six meters or more!  This species can produce basal suckers, but this is not very common.  This is a fast growing cycad.  Crowns tend to stay erect, though can become wide with full crowns.  Leaflets and petioles are armed with sharp spines, though the leaflets have some flex to them.  This species is moderately rare among Encephalartos, but is quite rare in cultivation. It is tolerant of coastal full sun, but look better in partial sun.  For inland areas, I recommend this plant for partial sun or shade.  This plant is great for established gardens with canopy, or gardens with shade.  This is a fast growing species and requires space.  It will make a large showy plant and will enhance the tropical look of any garden in the right application!  The citrus pot size we’re offering on special have caudexes of about 4.5 inches - see first five pictures below.  They are ready to go into the garden or be repotted.  Mail order possible, weather permitting.  The citrus pot size is shown in the first five photos followed by a 15 gallon larger plant

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE CITRUS POT $450
DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT THIS SAME SIZE $375



Encephalartos hildebrandtii cit pot 4.5 inches Encephalartos hildebrandtii cit pot 4.5 inches Encephalartos hildebrandtii cit pot 4.5 inches
Encephalartos hildebrandtii cit pot 4.5 inches Encephalartos hildebrandtii cit pot 4.5 inches Encephalartos hildebrandtii 15g
Encephalartos hildebrandtii Encephalartos hildebrandtii Encephalartos hildebrandtii

 

LEPIDOZAMIA PEROFFSKYANA
A "USER FRIENDLY" LARGE CYCAD

GREEN LEAVES – NO SPINES
MEDIUM SIZED MATURE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON AS SHOWN


I enjoy talking about this species because it is one of my favorites.  It is a large species over time.  I say 'user friendly" because this is one of the few species that has absolutely no spines; none of the leaflets, none one the stems.  A leaf brushing across your face feels no more intense than brushing past a Maiden Hair Fern. We have a huge selection of this species.  I am going to show you an assortment of plants.  Below are a few of the main characteristics of this species:


*Large species with trunks slowly getting to over ten feet
*Leaf length typically six to eight feet, sometimes bigger.
*Trunk diameter to 18 inches
*Smooth petiole with no spines
*Great for strong filtered light or full sun along the coast
*Large interesting cones
*Leaflets soft and glossy green in color
*New leaves emerge upward, older leaves lay more horizontal
*Easy to grow

I've found that even customers who say "I only like palms, not cycads" tend to love this species.
The plant on special is in a 15 gallon pot with a caudex of 7.5 inches.  Age is 7 to 8 years from germination. It is shown in the first five photos below.   It’ll be instantly ready for the garden after a bit of sun acclimation.  It could be shipped.  I am also showing a few monster specimens we have at the Nursery.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON $600


Lepidozamia peroffskyana 15g 7.5 inches ( Lepidozamia peroffskyana 15g 7.5 inches ( Lepidozamia peroffskyana 15g 7.5 inches (
Lepidozamia peroffskyana 15g 7.5 inches ( Lepidozamia peroffskyana 15g 7.5 inches ( Lepidozamia peroffskyana
Lepidozamia peroffskyana 15g 7.5 inches ( Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana 15g 7.5 inches (

 

LEPIDOZAMIA PEROFFSKYANA
A "USER FRIENDLY" LARGE GREEN CYCAD

TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

SEE DESCRIPTION ABOVE

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $55


Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana
Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana
Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana

 

PURPLE-BLACK LARGER BROMELIAD
NEOROGELIA MOPEPPA

GOOD FOR FILTERED LIGHT OR SUN ALONG THE COAST
LARGER SIZE NEOROGELIA
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


This is a desirable and colorful Bromeliad that does well in the garden.  It also gets quite wide with a two foot span leaftip to leaftip.  But, it doesn't get very tall.  Color is as blackish purple color with hints of red.  Like all Bromeliads, after it flowers it produces pups and, in a couple of years, you have a good sized clump.  It is difficult to find.  In coastal areas, it'll take some sun.  If you are further inland, figure strong filtered light will work. We're putting 5 gallon size on Sale.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $80


Neorogelia puple mopeppa 5g Neorogelia puple mopeppa 5g Neorogelia puple mopeppa 5g
Neorogelia puple mopeppa 5g Neorogelia puple mopeppa 5g Neorogelia puple mopeppa 5g

 

SPATHODEA CAMPANULATA
THE AFRICAN TULIP TREE
CLUSTERS OF LARGE RED-ORANGE BLOSSOMS


MEDIUM SIZE MATURE – LONG LIVED FLOWERS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

We are fortunate here in Southern California because there are quite a few striking, beautiful flowering tropical trees that we can grow.  Included in this group is the African Tulip Tree with its clusters of large blossoms.  The majority of trees have red to orange colored blossoms.  It blooms in summer but sometimes longer.  It wants full sun.  Cold hardiness is estimated to be in the mid-twenties F.  It is quite easy to grow and a very satisfying tropical tree

REGULAR PRICE 15G AFRICAN TULIP TREE $185
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS 15G SIZE $160

The 7th photo below is by an unknown author from Maui and the laszt is c/o Wikipedia Commons.


Spathodeas campanulata 15g Spathodeas campanulata 15g Spathodeas campanulata 15g
Spathodeas campanulata 15g Spathodeas campanulata 15g Spathodeas campanulata 15g
Spathodeas campanulata mAUI Spathodeas campanulata wIKIPEDIA COMMONS Spathodeas campanulata 15g 

 

VARIEGATED ZINGIBER ZERUMBET
RED BLOSSOM AWAPUHI SHAPOO GINGER



RARE UPRIGHT RED CONE LIKE BLOSSOM
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE


The Awapuhi Shampoo Ginger is native to Hawaii and is a perennial clumping Ginger that typically grows in filtered light and can go dormant in winter.  Leaves or typically green but we're offering the variegated form of this plant.  Mature height is about five feet.  In the spring its dormancy ends and it usually comes back strong.   The variegation of this variety runs longitudinally along the leaf.  When flowering, the cones start of green and, when mature, turn red.  If ou squeeze a cone it gives off sap which can be used as a shampoo.  Thus, the common name of this plant.  It does poorly in areas with hard freezes.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $55
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $45


The photo of the blossom is by the Survival Gardener Website.  This is a rare Ginger to locate.

Awapuhi Variegated Shampoo Ginger Awapuhi Variegated Shampoo Ginger Awapuhi Variegated Shampoo Ginger
Awapuhi Variegated Shampoo Ginger Awapuhi Variegated Shampoo Ginger Awapuhi Variegated Shampoo Ginger
  Awapuhi Ginger by the Survival Gardener Website  

 

ALOCASIA METALHEAD
HYBRID VARIETY WITH SHINY NEW LEAVES

PURPLE STEMS & BACKS OF LEAVES
FIVE FEET TALL MATURE - FILTERED LIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


Alocasia are a group of tropical pants that have diamond or heart shaped leaves.  Some like sun, others shade.  They are similar to Colocasia.  There are over 80 types / hybrids of Alocasia.  A. metalhead gets its name from the sheen that the leaves display.  This is a A. portora hybrid and gets to a height of about 5 feet and has shiny green-purple leaves with purple backs and stems.  Older leaves tend to be green.  This species wants filtered light or a bit of sun.  It tolerates a freeze.  Leaves are upright and it is a very attractive tropical plant.  This is the first time we have offered this Alocasia. 

T
EN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $175

The garden photo below is c/o Missouri Botanical Garden. 
 
Alocasia metal head Alocasia metal head Alocasia metal head
Alocasia metal head Alocasia metal head Alocasia metal head
Alocasia metal head Alocasia metal head Alocasia matalhead Miss Bot Garden Website

 

MUSA ZEBRINA
AKA MUSA ACUMINATA ZERBRINA
A NON-FRUITING ORNAMENTAL BANANA


TOP OF LEAF - RED BLOTCHES ON GREEN
BOTTOM OF LEAF - MAROON
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON PLANTS

The plants I'm showing here are a non-edible fruiting type of ornamental Banana known as Musa zebrina in the Musa acuminata group.  The name “sumatrana” is sometimes used as a reference.  Like most Bananas, it does sucker.  This species is used for its ornamental value – either in the garden (where it gets six to eight feet tall) or in a container (where it gets to 3 to 5 feet tall).  It has light green leaves with attractive purple splotches and maroon underside.  See photos below.  It does produce purple fruit but these are not edible because of fiber or seeds.  It'd want full sun outdoors (along the coast) and should be cold tolerant well into the mid-twenties F.  Some are also growing it as an indoor plant.  We're putting our five gallon plants on sale.  See photos below. 

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $75

These can be mail ordered.  The first six photos show our 5 gallon size.

Musa zebrina Musa zebrina Musa zebrina
Musa zebrina Musa zebrina Musa zebrina
Musa zebrina Musa zebrina Musa zebrina

 

WEDNESDAY, 12 OCTOBER, 2022
 


BEST CYCAD SPECIES FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

AND MANY OTHER STATES
EASY TO READ
LOTS OF SPECIES & PICTURES 

COVERS MOST OF THE SOUGHT-AFTER SPECIES
CULTURAL INFORMATION INCLUDED

Click on banner to right to read
 
Best Cycads So Cal banner

READ CYCADS FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Encephalartos princeps 
Encephalartos princeps
Encephalartos arenarius 
Encephalartos arenarius
Macrozamia communis 
Macrozamia communis
Cycas panzhihuaensis 
Cycas panzhihuaensis
    

CHAMBEYRONIA HOOKERI
THE BLONDE FLAME THROWER PALM


GORGEOUS PALM FROM NEW CALEDONIA


The palm shown in the first two rows is a 5 gallon size of Chambeyronia hookeri with its blonde colored crown shaft.  This species is hard to find.  It is different in appearance from the dark green crown shafted form, Chambeyronia macrocarpa.  Here's some facts about this species:

•  Growth habit and care about the same as macrocarpa
•  Along the coast will tolerate full sun if you're are not too far inland
•  Crown shaft is yellow-tan colored and quite prominent
•  Cold tolerance is about 23 degrees
•  Growth rate on this species like macrocarpa is slow to medium but improves once planted in the ground.
• Trunk diameter is about 8 inches typically and overall height of mature plants is about 25 feet
•  Leaflets are shiny green, thick and sturdy, and quite wide as shown
•  Like macrocarpa, about 95% of the time throws newly emerging red leaf as shown here.  Rarely a plant will not throw new red leaves and there's no way of predicting this.
• Also makes a great interior palm inside the home

We have very limited numbers available of this species and only a handful of 15g and 5g size.  But, we also have some band sized plants.


Chambeyronia hookeri Chambeyronia hookeri Chambeyronia hookeri
Chambeyronia hookeri Chambeyronia hookeri Chambeyronia hookeri
Chambeyronia hookeri Chambeyronia hookeri Chambeyronia hookeri

 

RHAPIS HUMILIS
RARE TYPE OF LADY PALM
FOUR LARGE SPECIMEN PLANTS AVAILABLE


LARGEST SPECIMENS YOU'LL SEE FOR SALE
GET TO OVER 20 FEET AND TAKE COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL FOUR HUGE PLANTS!


Rhapis humilis
 is a tall, suckering and thin trunked fan palm.  It is a type of "Lady Palm" and this species is one of the most sought after.  This is because it's a great growing species, has strong canes that don't bend over and gets significantly tall for the genus - tallest of the Rhapis genus.  It does sucker and produces canes averaging one inch or a bit bigger in diameter.  Leaves hold up to twenty leaflets that are narrow, a bit droopy, dark green and come to a point at their ends.  The more common Rhapis excelsa leaflets come to a blunt tip at the end of the leaflets.  The amazing thing about this species is that it attains such tall heights.  I've seen specimens that have reached twenty-four feet!  Compare this to the average height of a R. excelsa at six to eight.  Finally, the Rhapis humilis is known to tolerate full sun along the coast. 

Plants like we're showing here are near impossible to find.  We have four plants which are each about fifteen feet tall in their pots.  These four plants are shown in the four rows of photos below.  Be aware that, in California, there are only large garden specimens growing in full sun and with heights of over 20 feet.  These are called the “California Rhapis humilis” and all plants sold come from divisions of existing plants.  This is a dioecious species and there’s only known to be male plants.  So, if someone tells you they grew them from seeds, you know they are not this true Rhapis humilis – more likely R. multifida (shown below in today's Blog) which doesn’t take sun well and only gets to heights under ten feet.  These 25 gallon specimens shown below would be perfect for an upscale garden or interior usage application.  The more expensive plants are in the first two rows of photos.  The garden photo is by FM at the LAA.  These oldest/largest divisions were taken from forty year old specimens and have taken ten years to establish as you see them now.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON SPECIMENS BELOW $1500 - $1900

 

Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis
Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis
Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis
Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis
Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis Rhapis humilis

 

GAUSSIA MAYA
A VERY DIFFERENT PALM FOR SO. CALIFORNIA


CAN SEE SWOLLEN BASE WHEN YOUNG
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE AND OLD 15 GALLON


In the "old days", this species was known as Opsiandra maya.  It is a single trunk pinnate palm that can be grown in Southern CA.  It has the interesting habit of getting a very swollen base, especially when planted in the ground from a smaller plant. Interestingly enough, this swollen base to the trunk abruptly disappears with age.  You'll note this bulge in the photos below.  This species tends to hold a limited number of leaves, about five to seven usually.

Along the coast it takes full sun.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-twenties F.  The trunk diameter is about six to perhaps maximum eight inches.  I've grown it in part day sun, which it loved.  However, the trunk will often curve to seek more sun (see photo bottom row).  Some grow it in full sun with success.  The plants on special are very nice 15g with fat bases.  I am showing several below. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE LARGE 15G $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $240

This size can be mail ordered.  But, remember to mention this Blog Only Special for your discount. 


Gaussia maya Gaussia maya Gaussia maya
Gaussia maya Gaussia maya Gaussia maya
Gaussia maya Gaussia maya Gaussia maya

 

BRAHEA ARMATA
THE MEXICAN BLUE FAN PALM
BLUE HESPER PALM

 

VERY BLUE COLORED LEAVES – SLOW GROWING
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE PLANTS

This species of blue fan palm is not only known for its intense blue color but also for the fact that it is extremely cold hardy.  It goes down to about 16 degrees.  It is native to Mexico, specifically to Baja Mexico.  It prefers dry heat and is a challenge to grow in humid areas.  Mature plants take 30 years or more to reach a height of 20 to 25 feet.  The trunks are stout but clean.   These 25g plants have nice color and are sun acclimated.  They are begging to be planted into someone's garden.  This species is also very drought tolerant.  The plants we’re putting on special are intensely blue 15g plants, large for their containers.  The plants on special are shown in the first four photos.  I’m also showing a 25 gallon and a larger boxed plant.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $200
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $175

Just mention this Blog Special to get this nice discount.  On the mature trees below, note the prominent blue color of the leaves.  This is the hallmark of this species.  We have very limited numbers.


Brahea armata Brahea armata Brahea armata
Brahea armata Brahea armata Brahea armata
Brahea armata Brahea armata Brahea armata

 

DYPSIS SPECIES BEF
SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM FROM MADAGASCAR



THIN TRUNK, ARCHING LEAVES, WHITE CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 7 GALLON SIZE

For quite a few years, palm enthusiasts have been familiar with this rare species from Madagascar.  It has been called "Dypsis species bef".  But, to this day, it has no accepted botanical name.  It has a rather narrow ringed trunk with arching and keeled green leaves.  The crown shaft is white.  It is medium sized with a height of about 20 feet.  The garden specimen is c/o Steve S., PalmPedia.  As a nursery plant it has soft green relaxed leaves with hanging leaflets.  But, when older, it is firmly keeled.  Five of the six photos below show the 7 gallon size on sale.  This is a very difficult palm to find and very sought after.  We only have a couple.

REGULAR PRICE 7 GALLON $175
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $145

This species will take coastal sun.  Cold tolerance is unknown at this time.


Dypsis species bef Dypsis species bef Dypsis species bef
Dypsis species bef Dypsis species bef Dypsis species bef

 

DYPSIS ONILAHENSIS
SINGLE TRUNK OR SUCKERING PALM



VERY POPULAR, EASY TO GROW
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLD 5 GALLON SIZE


This species is a suckering palm from Madagascar but can also be found as a single trunk specimen.  The crown shaft is often white or silver.  The plants we're offering here appear to be the suckering form.  As a species, it has either flat or droopy leaves/leaflets and white to silver crown shafts.  Overall height is about twenty feet and trunk thickness is four to six inches.  It likes coastal part day sun, perhaps more, and is cold tolerant to the mid-twenties F.  The plants on sale are the 5g size with an age of about 5 years from seed. They tolerate full sun along the coast and are cold hardy into the twenties F.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $110


You must mention this Blog Special when purchasing


Dypsis onilahensis Dypsis onilhensis Dypsis onilhensis
Dypsis onilhensis Dypsis onilhensis Dypsis onilahensis
Dypsis onilahensis Dypsis onilahensis Dypsis onilahensis

 

CHAMBEYRONIA HOOKERI
THE BLONDE FLAMETHROWER PALM

GORGEOUS PALM FROM NEW CALEDONIA
USUALLY HAVE NICE NEW PURPLE-RED LEAF
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

Shown is a nice example of a 5 gallon size of Chambeyronia hookeri with its blonde colored crown shaft.  I’ve found that this species throws just as red (sometimes even more intense) new leaf compared to Chambeyronia macrocarpa.  This species is hard to find.  It is different in appearance from the dark green crown shafted form seen on C. macrocarpa.  Here's some facts about this species:

•  Growth habit and care about the same as macrocarpa
•  Along the coast will tolerate full sun if you're are not too far inland
•  Crown shaft is yellow-tan colored and quite prominent
•  Cold tolerance is about 23 degrees
•  Growth rate on this species like macrocarpa is slow to medium but improves once planted in the ground.
• Trunk diameter is about 8 inches typically and overall height of mature plants is about 25 feet
•  Leaflets are shiny green, thick and sturdy, and quite wide as shown
•  Like macrocarpa, about 95% of the time throws newly emerging red leaf as shown here.  Rarely a plant will not throw new red leaves and there's no way of predicting this.
• Also makes a great interior palm inside the home

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON SIZE $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110

We have very limited numbers available of this species and also have a few 15 gallon size.  Of course, not all will have a red new leaf at this time.  Mention this Special at the time of purchase for this discounted price.  The crown shaft photo below is by TS at RPS and the new red leaf by the roof is by D.L.


Chambeyronia hookeri 5g Chambeyronia hookeri 5g Chambeyronia hookeri 5g
Chambeyronia hookeri 5g Chambeyronia hookeri 5g Chambeyronia hookeri 5g
Chambeyronia hookeri TS RPS Chambeyronia hookeri 5g Chambeyronia hookeri 5g

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX MAXIMA
LARGEST OF THE KING PALMS

 

GREEN LEAVES – STATELY TRUNK AND CROWN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

By popular demand I have put this great palm on special.  This is the largest of the King Palm family.  It got its name "maxima" by the flower size, but most have found it to be an aggressive grower, have a larger trunk and get taller than the other species of King Palms.  It does have silver on the underside of the leaves.  The crown shaft is sort of a yellow, sometimes blue color.  It is a quick growing pinnate palm native to Australia.  It's rare to see them available and also hard to find good photos of this species.  The plants I'm putting on special are the 5 gallon size, mostly singles.  It tolerates full coastal sun and is cold hardy into the mid-twenties F.  Another interesting thing is that sometimes they’ll throw a new red leaf as shown in one photo below.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100

Of note, our Archontophoenix "teracarpa" is probably a larger King Palm than A. maxima but still escapes exact species identification.  It does not have silver undersides to the leaflets and has a blue crown shaft.  It is routinely discussed elsewhere at this Blog.  The habitat photo is by Luke Nancarrow AU
.


Archontophoenix maxima Archontophoenix maxima Archontophoenix maxima
Archontophoenix maxima Archontophoenix maxima Archontophoenix maxima
Archontophoenix maxima Archontophoenix maxima luke nancarrow Archontophoenix maxima

 

CHAMAEDOREA PLUMOSA
THE BABY QUEEN PALM



SEVERAL PLANTS PER POT
LOOK BEST IN GROUPS
TEN DAY SPECIAL SINGLE 5 GALLON SIZE

For anyone who's looked for this species lately, you realize it's in very short supply and essentially unavailable in larger sizes.  This is because of a several year shortage of seeds.  We are pleased to presently put nice single stem 5 gallon plants on special.  Plant heights are about 4 feet in the pot.  This species gets up to about 14 feet height with a green, ringed trunk about 1.5 inches in diameter.  The leaves are plumose or fluffy.  They are quick growing and perfect for narrow planter areas.  It will take full coastal sun.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F.  It can also be used as a houseplant in a bright area.  These plants in this size pot are quite shippable.  We also have multiple (several in one pot) if desired at the same price.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 5 GALLON SINGLES $100

Mention this Blog Special for your discount at the time of purchase. 


 
Chamaedorea plumosa Chamaedorea plumosa Chamaedorea plumosa
Chamaedorea plumosa Chamaedorea plumosa Chamaedorea plumosa
Chamaedorea plumosa  Chamaedorea plumosa singles 5g  Chamaedorea plumosa 

 

BRAHEA NITIDA
FLAT GREEN LEAF - NATIVE TO MEXICO

CAN TOLERATE LESS THAN FULL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G PLANTS

This interesting fan palm is native to Mexico, where it lives in the western portion of the country in mountainous areas.  Its distribution extends down into Guatemala.  It attains a height of thirty feet with a stout trunk of one foot diameter.  The most attractive thing about this palm are its circular leaves, with only partial division of the segments.  This is particularly apparent when it is grown in filtered light.   In sun, the leaves are less flat and more divided.  When grown in shade, sometimes this species reminds me of a "Licuala-looking" palm in its leaf appearance.  

Cold hardiness is at least into the mid-twenties F.  It may in fact be more cold hardy.  The leaves are a shiny green with a white discoloration on the underside of the leaves.  The petioles are essentially un-armed.  From time to time we have this species available.  Shown here are nice 5g which I'm putting on sale.   The close up of the petioles shows the lack of armor.  Note the minimal division of the leaflets.  The plant in the garden below shows more circular, flat near entire leaves.  Compare this to the habitat photo, which was taken by a friend of mine, Justen Dobbs, in habitat and in full sun.  The leaves in full sun are more divided and not as tropical appearing.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $110

Remember, mention this Blog Only Special for price at the time of purchase.  Limited numbers available.  The photo from habitat is by Justen Dobbs

Brahea nitida Brahea nitida Brahea nitida
Brahea nitida Brahea nitida Brahea nitida
Brahea nitida Brahea nitida Justen Dobbs Brahea nitida

 

LYTOCARYUM HOENII
NEAR EXTINCT SEMI-DWARF PALM FROM BRAZIL


DWARF PALM – SOFT GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON

This semi-dwarf pinnate palm gets to a height of ten to twelve feet domestically and is single trunk and has no crown shaft.  It is native to montane forests in Brazil and is near extinct in the wild.  It is rarely seen offered for sale.  The more frequently seen species of this genus is Lytocaryum weddellianum, also from Brazil rainforests.  The latter is a much smaller plant than L. hoenii and rarely gets to ten feet.  Hoenii  has a more robust appearance, a bit thicker trunk and wider leaflets.  Here I'm showing 2g plants of Lytocaryum hoenii that we’re putting on special.  We rarely, if ever, can offer this species.   Lytocaryum is a filtered light genus with a cold tolerance in the mid-twenties F.  I've found from experience that Lytocaryum seem to thrive on neglect.  Too much water, fertilizer or attention seems to not be right for them.  Just plant one, don't pay attention to it other than average watering, and they seem to do fine.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON SIZE $75

The garden photo is c/o Palmpedia

Lytocaryum hoenii Lytocaryum hoenii Lytocaryum hoenii
Lytocaryum hoenii Lytocaryum hoenii Lytocaryum hoenii
Lytocaryum hoenii Lytocaryum hoenii  

 

PRITCHARDIA MAIDENIANA
PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS PRITCHARDIA AFFINIS

  

ENDEMIC PALM NATIVE TO THE BIG ISLAND – HAWAII
PRITCHARDIAS ARE THE ONLY NATIVE PALMS OF THE HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

Pritchardias are a single trunk fan palm.  Of the several dozen species, most are endemic to one or more of the Hawaii Islands and are not found elsewhere in the world.  There are several species from the South Pacific.  This particular species, Pritchardia maideniana, is native to the Big Island.  For many decades it was known as P. affinis, but Don Hodel found no difference on researching these two species and both have been lumped together as P. maideniana.  It lives in mountainous areas and there are known to be about fifty or so plants in the wild.  It is considered endangered.  It has wedge shaped leaf with shiny green topsides.  Pink tomentum is found on the leaf stem – these hairs continue somewhat onto the underside of the leaf.  Leaves are erect.  Trunk diameter is about 10 inches and mature height is 20 to 40 feet or more.  This species tolerates coastal sun and is cold hardy into the twenties F.  We’re offering nice bands on sale.  They’d be easy to mail order.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE AS SHOWN $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $50


Pritchardia maidenianna Pritchardia maidenianna Pritchardia maidenianna
Pritchardia maidenianna Pritchardia maidenianna Pritchardia maidenianna
Pritchardia maidenianna affinis Pritchardia maidenianna Pritchardia maidenianna affinis

 

SABAL PALMETTO
THE PALMETTO PALM

 

MEDIUM SIZED COLD HARDY GREEN FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE BAND SIZED PLANTS


This medium to large fan palm is native to the United States and an assortment of Caribbean islands including Cuba.  It's native habitat extends as far north as North Carolina.  It is amazingly salt tolerant.  In Florida you can see it right up into the coastal dunes.  I've seen plants just a few feet from the bay at Tampa Bay and thriving.  It is green in color and has a trunk that is of variable heights, ranging from ten feet to up to eighty feet – but it’s rare to see them over about 30 feet.  This is a durable, hardy palm with obvious salt tolerance.  It's cold hardiness is into the mid teens F. and it prefers full sun for optimal growth.  However, it does tolerate partial shade.  Also, it can tolerate desert conditions if given adequate water.  Trunks have a "criss-cross" pattern of attached leaf bases.  Later the palm sheds these to show a fairly smooth appearing trunk.  With my comments above, you'd think there are lots of these available in CA.  This is not the case; they are hard to find.  The bands on sale are very nicely sized.  Finally, for those of you displaced from South Carolina, you can bring a little of your state to your present location by growing this palm.  
Sabal palmetto is your state tree.  We can ship one right to your displaced location.  These are easy to mail order. 

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $50


Sabal palmetto Sabal palmetto Sabal palmetto
Sabal palmetto Sabal palmetto Sabal palmetto

 

ENCEPHALARTOS TRISPINOSUS
BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD



SOUGHT AFTER - SPINY LEAFLETS
LOVES SUN AND PRETTY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE BAND PLANTS


Shown below is our band size plants of the desirable blue South African cycad, Encephalartos trispinosus.  Most people find it's very similar to E. horridus.  It is a small to medium sized mature blue cycad with leaflets that have prominent lobes.  But, be aware that this species is quite variable and has many forms.  There is even a spineless leaflet form.  It likes full sun and is cold hardy to about 22 degrees F.  These band sized plants are easy to ship.  The fifth photo shows a larger nursery plant and the last photo is a garden specimen.  Of note, these seedlings are pretty nice and probably ready to be repotted into a larger container. 

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $65

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount.

Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus
Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus
Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus ENCEPHALARTOS TRISPINOSUS

 

DIOON MEROLAE
SLOW GROWING SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED CYCAD


GRAY-GREEN LEAFLETS
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLDER BAND SIZED PLANTS

This is a slow growing New World cycad species that comes from Mexico.  It is very attractive.  One of the things that is particularly nice about this species is that the crown size is compact and not that large.  For this reason, it fits into a small sunny location in the garden where no other plant would work.  Its leaves are a silver-green in color (can be just green) and it holds many leaves.  An extremely old plant might have a foot or two of trunk.  In the wild there are specimens that are possibly a thousand years old with many meters of trunk, often leaning over toward the ground.  But, from a practical point of view, it is a small plant.  If you grow this species, you'll probably find that it will take fifty years or more to get three feet of trunk. 
 
Cold hardiness is into the low 20's F. and it prefers full sun except for harsh desert climates.  We offer many sizes of this species from seedlings up to trunked plants that are many decades old.  For mail orders, the band size is easy to ship.  These are not newly germinated seedlings but rather plants with an inch or more of caudex.  Most germinated five years ago.  If you want larger, we do have citrus pot, 15g and boxed sized plants. I hope that you like this cycad; it's one of my favorites. For upscale landscaping, nothing beats it.

TEN DAY SPECIAL OLDER BAND SIZED PLANS $85

BTW, if these don't sell out, all will be repotted into 5g pots shortly.


Dioon merolae band Dioon merolae band Dioon merolae band
Dioon merolae band Dioon merolae band Dioon merolae band
Dioon merolae Dioon merolae Dioon merolae

 

CYCAS TAITUNGENSIS
THE EMPEROR CYCAD

A VERY COLD HARDY CYCAD WITH ORANGE FUZZ AT TOP OF CAUDEX
TEN DAY SPECIAL VERY LARGE SIZED 20 GALLON SPECIMEN

Cycas taitungensis is a species of cycad from China and Taiwan.  It used to be known as Cycas taiwaniana.  In fact, some reference books around still refer to it by this name.  It is a medium to large cycad with trunk diameter of twelve to eighteen inches and height of ten feet.  It is known as the Emperor Cycad. It is similar to a Sago Palm but with some noted differences.  The leaves are longer and wider than the C. revoluta.  They also tend to be flatter.  The color is deep green.  Also, growth rate is much faster and cold hardiness is better than the Sago. It is not unusual for this species to throw two or three sets of leaves a year.  In the crown area, the tomentum is a very prominent orange color, a good clue as to the species.  I think it's a bit more tropical and lush appearing than the Sago Palm.  There are reports of this species easily tolerating mid-teen F. temperatures.  Also, it likes full sun except in desert areas.  We’re putting a nice 20 gallon plant on sale that should cone soon.  The caudex is 8 inches wide and 14 inches tall.  For someone in a cold area, this is perhaps one of the first cycads you should consider.

REGULAR PRICE THIS 20 GALLON SPECIMEN  $1125
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $950 


Cycas taitungensis 20 gallon 8 x 14 inches Cycas taitungensis 20 gallon 8 x 14 inches Cycas taitungensis 20 gallon 8 x 14 inches
Cycas taitungensis 20 gallon 8 x 14 inches Cycas taitungensis 20 gallon 8 x 14 inches Cycas taitungensis 20 gallon 8 x 14 inches
Cycas taitungensis Cycas taitungensis Cycas taitungensis

 

TWO VARIEGATED HIBISCUS
ONE WITH RED FLOWERS, ONE WITH YELLOW

FORM SMALL BUSHES OR TREES
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE & FIVE GALLON PLANTS

Below I am showing you two different variegated Hibiscus. 

1. 
 Variegated Hibiscus cooperi - first five photos - red flower
2.  Variegated Hibiscus tileaceus hamoe - photos 6 through 8 - yellow flower

All of our Hibiscus have been propagated from cuttings off a mother tree.  Some have several plants per pot.  As most of you know, Hibiscus make a bush or small tree.  Plants are being grown from temperate to tropical localities.  Leaves are typically green with finely serrated edges.  The two plants on sale are more rare variegated forms but still have the colorful blossoms.  All need adequate sunlight.  They do not like severe cold weather.  Cold makes the flower buds drop off.  Keep them damp but not soggy.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON, EITHER TYPE $35
TEN DAY SPECIAL 3 OR 5 GALLON, EITHER TYPE $85


These can be mail ordered but are sort of fragile for traveling and no guarantees can be for perfect condition arrival.  Note, we are running out of both of these species.


HISIBSCUS TILIACEUS RED HISIBSCUS TILIACEUS RED HISIBSCUS TILIACEUS RED
HISIBSCUS TILIACEUS RED HISIBSCUS TILIACEUS RED HISIBSCUS TILIACEUS
HISIBSCUS TILIACEUS HISIBSCUS TILIACEUS  

 

FICUS AURICULATA
AKA FICUS ROXBURHII
THE ROXBURG FIG

LARGE ROUND GREEN LEAVES
RARE MEDIUM SIZE TREE MATURE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON


Only a few times before have we offered this rare round leafed Fig species.  It is known for its large round leaves that get twelve to 18 inches across with a drip tip.  New leaves emerge bronze or light red.  Leaf stems are short.  The leaf texture is slightly crinkled.  Mature height in the ground is 15 to 30 feet.  Fruiting figs cluster on older branches.  The trunk is gray colored and smooth.  It is a full sun species and cold hardy into the mid-twenties F.  These plants were taken by cuttings about 9 months ago from a tree in Southern CA.  We only have several left for sale.

TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GALLON $100

The garden specimen below is c/o Wikipedia.

 
Ficus auriculata Ficus auriculata Ficus auriculata
Ficus auriculata Ficus auriculata Ficus auriculata 5g
Ficus roxburghii auriculata Cal Poly Website  Ficus auriculata roxburghii  Ficus auriculata Wikipedia 

 

AUSTRALIAN TREE FERN
CYATHEA COOPERI


FAST GROWING, CAN GET TALLER
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


The Australian Tree Fern in native to several areas on the eastern side of Australia.  It is a faster growing tree fern that can get to a height of over forty feet.  The two photos from my garden in San Diego show potential height.  I have several with twenty-five feet of trunk.  I'm about 8 miles from the ocean and they take my sun fairly well.  Trunks can get up to twelve inches thick although most are more thin.  This species is a bigger alternative to the Tasmanian Tree Fern and has a thicker trunk and longer leaves.  It tolerates coastal sun or part day sun.  It is cold hardy into the upper twenties or lower.  It’s fairly fast growing and one just needs to keep up on the water.  If it goes downhill it’s almost always lack of water.  Otherwise it’s quite easy to grow.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $175

Mention this special when you purchase. 

Cyathea cooperi Australian Tree fern Cyathea cooperi Australian Tree fern Cyathea cooperi Australian Tree fern
Cyathea cooperi Australian Tree fern Cyathea cooperi Australian Tree fern Cyathea cooperi Australian Tree fern
Cyathea cooperi Australian Tree fern Australian Tree Fern Leaf

 

DICKSONIA ANTARCTICA
THE TASMANIAN TREE FERN



FAIRLY COLD HARDY, THINNER TRUNK

TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 5G SIZE 

This typically single trunk tree fern is native to Southeastern Australia and Tasmania.  It is much slower growing than the Australian Tree Fern above and has a mature height typically of 8 to 10 feet although they can get even taller.  Trunks are a similar diameter to the Australian Tree Fern.  Of note, apparently the lower trunk is filled with old, decaying trunk material and new roots grow through this material to get water and nutrition.  Cuttings of the top of the trunk can be re-established and root out.  This plant likes a bit of sun or filtered light and also loves water.  Cold tolerance is 25 degrees F. or lower.  The 5g on sale here are very nice as shown.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $75
TEN DAYS SPECIAL THIS SIZE $65


Remember:  Mention this Blog Special for your discount. 


 
Tasmanian Tree Fern Dicksonia antarctica   Tasmanian Tree Fern Dicksonia antarctica  
Tasmanian Tree Fern Dicksonia antarctica   Tasmanian Tree Fern Dicksonia antarctica   Tasmanian Tree Fern Dicksonia antarctica  
Tasmanian Tree Fern Dicksonia antarctica   Tasmanian Tree Fern Dicksonia antarctica   Tasmanian Tree Fern Dicksonia antarctica  

 

PAVONIA MULTIFLORA
BRAZILIAN CANDLES

RED BLOSSOMS IN SHADE!


AND, BLOSSOMS ALL YEAR LONG!
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE

In the past I introduced you to this interesting and super rare plant from Brazil.  This species in unique because it grows in the shade, never gets over about eight feet tall, blossoms in the shade and never stops blossoming.  Yes, in the dead of winter you'll see red blossoms.  And, these trees are prolific.  When mature, these trees will have twenty to thirty blossoms year-round.   This species is an open appearing plant with foliage and blossoms at the ends of its small trunks.  Blossom size is two to three inches in length.  Pictures here show them quite well.  This species is also very difficult to find.  The plants on sale are starter plants.  But, grow them on.  It’s well worth it.

TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $35

Just mention this Blog Only Special for your discount when you purchase.  Of note, small plants should blossom by spring but it’ll take five years or more to get an overhead wide tree.  Previous larger plants at the nursery shown below as well.


PAVONIA MULTIFLORA PAVONIA MULTIFLORA PAVONIA MULTIFLORA
PAVONIA MULTIFLORA PAVONIA MULTIFLORA
Pavonia multiflora Pavonia multiflora Pavonia multiflora
Pavonia multiflora Pavonia multiflora Pavonia multiflora

 

MONDAY, 10 OCTOBER, 2022 

PHOTOS OF ASSORTED TROPICAL PLANTS
FAIRCHILD TROPICAL GARDEN - MIAMI, FL



INTERESTING AND UNUSUAL SPECIES


Several years ago my wife and I visited Fairchild Tropical Garden in Miami, Florida.  This is a large and public tropical garden that contains literally thousands of exotic and rare plants.  It specializes in palm trees but also has a vast assortment of cycads, tropical plants, Aroids, tropical trees and countless delights for the plant enthusiast.  It's as must if you ever visit the area.  Presented in random order below are some photos of what we saw.  All are labeled according to their identification by FTG.  I hope you enjoy this presentation.

Exotic Anthurium species
Exotic Anthurium species
Livistona concinna
Livistona concinna
Pseudophoenix sargentii
Pseudophoenix sargentii
Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa
Astrocaryum mexicana
Astrocaryum mexicana
Coccorthrinax crinita leaf
Coccorthrinax crinita leaf
Ceratozamia europohyllidia leaf
Ceratoz.europohyllidia leaf
Bismarckia nobilis
Bismarckia nobilis
Pentagonia macrophylla
Pentagonia macrophylla
Licuala grandis leaf
Licuala grandis leaf
Microcycas calocoma
Microcycas calocoma
Satakentia liukiensis
Satakentia liukiensis
Coccothrinax species
Coccothrinax species
Coccothrinax crinita trunk
Coccothrinax crinita trunk
Cryosophila williamsonii
Cryosophila williamsonii
Hyphanae dichotoma
Hyphanae dichotoma
Roystonea species
Roystonea species
Kerriodoxa elegans
Kerriodoxa elegans
Licuala grandis
Licuala grandis
Delonix floribunda
Delonix floribunda
Phoenix loureiroi var. loureiroi
Phoenix loureiroi var. loureiroi
Alcantarea imperialis
Alcantarea imperialis
Cycas ophiolitica
Cycas ophiolitica
Cycas thouarsii
Cycas thouarsii
Livistona marie
Livistona marie
Heliconia blossom
Heliconia blossom
Base of Pandanus species
Base of Pandanus species
Fruit of Pandanus species
Fruit of Pandanus species
Pachypodium lameri
Pachypodium lameri
Leaf Imprint in Concrete Step
Leaf Imprint in Concrete Step

 

DYPSIS PEMBANA
SINGLE TRUNK OR SUCKERING
NATIVE TO PEMBA ISLAND


TAKES FULL COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZED PLANTS

There are both single trunk and suckering forms of this species.  Nowadays, most of the plants available of this species are the suckering form.  Both get to a height of 25 feet, have an attractive green trunk and a light colored crown shaft.  Leaves have a graceful arch and the leaflet color is green.  It's a great alternative for the garden.  Note how the trunks are beefy but not overly large.  The plants on special are already suckering.  Along our coast it will take part day sun but I'd recommend filtered or morning sun inland.  The plants on special are in 15 gallon pots and are ready to acclimate to your garden.  We do have smaller sizes available.  may have larger plants available.  I cannot tell you whether the plants we have (from seed) are the single or suckering type.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $210

Remember to mention this Blog Special at the time of purchase.  The 8th photo of a garden plant is c/o  late friend Al Bredeson.  The last photo is by tranquilometro.


Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana
Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana
Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana by late Al B. Dypsis pembana photo by tranquilometro

HEDYSCEPE CANTERBURYANA
FROM LORD HOWE ISLAND


SILVER CROWN SHAFT - SILVER TRUNK
UMBRELLA SHAPED CROWN OF LEAVES
ONE OF PRETTIEST PALM TREES AROUND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

We have available some nice 15g plants of Hedyscepe canterburyana.  This single trunk palm has a silver crown shaft, silver trunk (in shade) with prominent rings.  It is native to medium elevations in the mountains of Lord Howea Island (home of the Kentia Palm).  It is single trunk.  Mature height is about 20 feet.  They fruit here and seeds are large and red in color.  Along our coast here it takes full sun but also does well in part day sun or strong filtered light.  Trunks are beefier in sun.  Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees.  When folks see this plant in person, most agree it is one of the most desirable palms around.  We are putting our 15g size on special - shown in first six photos.  This size is about six years old.  The last photo shows the blue-silver trunk on a specimen in my own garden.  Important - they are slow growing!  

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $220

The 15 gallon size is shown in the first six photos.  Of note, we do have smaller sizes available.


Hedyscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana
Hedyscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana
Hedyscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana Hedyscepe canterburyana

CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII
THE MOST CLASSIC OF THE BAMBOO PALMS



MATURE, FLOWERING SIZE 15G
FILTERED LIKE, SHORTER PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS

This New World suckering shade palm has pinnate leaves and never gets much above 8 to 9 feet.  This is the reason it's so popular.  It is sought out as one of the most popular interior palms.  This has been the case for about 100 years.  A good thing is that it does fit inside the home of the average house without hitting the ceiling.  Outdoors, it wants filtered light and is cold hard into the mid, perhaps lower 20's F.  The 15g on sale here are about ten or more years old and locally grown. They shouldn't get any taller and have about as many canes as a 15g pot will support.  And, they are much more sturdy and hardy than imported plants.  They've seen all of our cold weather. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE 15G $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $235

Just mention this Special at the time of purchase for your discount.  Although a tall box is needed, these can be shipped anywhere within the U.S.  

CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII
CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII Chamaedorea seifritzii

 

RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII
MEDIUM SIZED - GRACEFUL & BEAUTIFUL PALM

 

SINGLE TRUNK – NICE GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

Of the Shaving Brush Palm family, this is the hardest one to find.  And, many think it's the prettiest and most desirable species.  Some consider it to be a variety of R. baueri.  We like to consider it a species.  Native to Raoul Island, an island well off the eastern side of New Zealand, this species has a medium sized trunk and reaches a height of twenty five feet.  The crown shaft is gorgeous but not as swollen as R. sapida.  I have some customers who report the crown shaft being a purple color.  On younger plants the leaf stems may shown colors of red to purple.  With age they are a brown-green.  Leaves are green and arching.  Trunks are prominently ringed.  It will take coastal sun or part day sun.  Some grow it in strong filtered light.  Far inland it needs protection from full sun.  Growth rate is slow to medium.  We’re putting nice 15g plants on sale.  See first seven photos.  The last photo is c/o cloudforest website.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $210

Just mention this Blog special at the time of purchase for this discount. 

Rhopalostylis cheesemanii Rhopalostylis cheesemanii Rhopalostylis cheesemanii
Rhopalostylis cheesemanii Rhopalostylis cheesemanii Rhopalostylis cheesemanii
Rhopalostylis cheesemanii Rhopalostylis cheesemanii Rhopalostylis cheesemanii by cloudforest website

LACCOSPADIX AUSTRALASICA
SINGLE TRUNK MOUNTAIN FORM


BEST GROWING SPECIES OF THE GENUS
RESEMBLES THE KENTIA PALM
TEN TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


When one considers the species Laccospadix australasica, he has to realize that there are different forms depending on native habitats and localities.  There are also single trunk and suckering forms.  The one for sale here is the single trunk mountain form.  I feel it's the best subspecies one can purchase.   It doesn't throw the new red leaf although occasionally you see a bit of bronze in the new leaf (as shown below).  This variety of the L. australasica is fairly easy to grow in our area.  I can’t predict if your plant will sucker or not.  The seeds for these plants today came from a local flowering tree here in Encinitas.  This variety has thinner leaves that are dull green in color, trunks about six inches thick and reaches a height of 20 feet or a bit more.  It sort of looks like a Kentia Palm.  I'd recommend morning sun, strong filtered light or perhaps several hours of daily sun.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-twenties F.  As shown below, sometimes we’ll plant more than one to a pot.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110

We have extremely limited numbers but hopefully more will become available over time.  Mention this Special for your discount.  

Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica
Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica
Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica

 

COPERNICIA PRUNIFERA
THE CARNAUBA WAX PALM

 

WATER CONSERVING - LOVES HEAT AND SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This species is native to Brazil and is a single trunk fan palm with a not too large crown of leaves that are green in color.  Sometimes they'll be blue-green.  Overall height can get over fifty feet but it’s more common to see them shorter.  Old leaf bases can be adherent to the trunk as a petticoat as shown in a photo below.  Economically, the leaves of this species produce a wax that makes carnauba wax.  The latter is marketed for various usages including car and shoe wax.  This palm wants heat and sun and is cold hardy to at least the lower 20's F.  We are offering our 5g plants on sale.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $95

Remember, mention this Special!


Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera
Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera
Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera

 

SABAL URESANA
RARE & ATTRACTIVE BLUE FAN PALM

 

MEDIUM SIZED MATURE – LOVES HEAT AND SUN
VERY DIFFICULT TO FIND FOR SALE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This extremely blue species of Sabal is from northwestern Mexico in the states of Sonora and Chihuahua.  In fact, I had a collector in New Mexico who told me he thinks the natural distribution of this species extends across the U.S. border into New Mexico.  But, this is not documented.  This species has very long petioles with divided fan leaves attached at their ends.  The leaves are blue or blue-green on both sides.  This is more apparent when the plants are moved into sun and age.  tThe ends of the leaves flex downward, so the leaves appear as if they are hanging down toward the ground.  Plants can get over thirty feet tall and in habitat are much taller than this.  Trunks get up to eighteen inches thick.  They like heat and sun.  Cold hardiness is good, into the upper teens F.  But, cold along with wet weather can be difficult for this species.  We have available some nice 5 gallon which we’re putting on Special.  Leaf color is just beginning to turn blue.  The last habitat photo is by Jeremy Spath.  The last actual photo is a 15g plant which we’ve sold out of.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110


Sabal uresana 5g Sabal uresana 5g Sabal uresana 5g
Sabal uresana 5g Sabal uresana 5g Sabal uresana 5g
Sabal uresana Sabal uresana Jeremy Spath Sabal uresana

 

CHAMAEDOREA BENZIEI
RARE SINGLE TRUNK CHAMAEDOREA
LIKE C. RADICALIS ON STEROIDS!

 

NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND
5 GALLON SIZE NOW AVAILABLE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE

I have not shown this species that often because it's rarely available and very difficult to find.  It is native to Mexico at high elevations near Chiapas.  It is a single trunk, understory palm that has sort of a thick trunk up to 1.5 or 2 inches.  The flowers are reminiscent of Chamaedorea radicalis as they shoot high into the foliage.  Its overall appearance is also similar to the trunking radicalis but with bigger leaves, wider leaflets and a thicker trunk.  It gets up to about 10 to 15 feet.

It grows in filtered light and seems to be cold hardy into the mid-twenties at least.  We have a limited number of 5 gallons available (first five photos).   Some pots have two plants per pot - so there's a chance to set some seeds.  These can be mail ordered.  I'm also putting them on special.  Please appreciate that this is a super rare species and is seldom offered for sale.  Note that the photos below show several larger plants from the nursery.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $110



Remember: Mention this Special for your discount.  Can be shipped.   


Chamaedorea benzei Chamaedorea benzei Chamaedorea benzei
Chamaedorea benzei Chamaedorea benzei Chamaedorea benzei
Chamaedorea benzei Chamaedorea benzei Chamaedorea benzei

  

CARPOXYLON MACROSPERMUM
DROP-DEAD GORGEOUS CROWN SHAFTED PALM


NATIVE TO VANUATU
EXTREMELY HARD TO FIND
NOT VERY COLD TOLERANT
TEN DALE SALE ON TWO GALLON PLANTS


This extremely gorgeous crown shafted palm was introduced into the cultivation market perhaps 25 years ago.  At that time and since, availability of seeds has very limited and seed prices uncommonly high - as much as eight dollars per seed.  This is a single trunk palm with very arching green leaves and a lime green colored crown shaft.  The trunk is medium sized and about 10 inches thick.  Overall height is 15 to 20 feet. Leaves are keeled and leaflets continue nearly all the way to the base of the petiole.  The base of the trunk is slightly swollen.  The difficulty in growing this species is the lack of its ability to tolerate a freeze.  Tolerated low temperatures are 33 to 34 degrees.  With this said, some people in warmer microclimates have had success in growing this beautiful palm.  It wants acclimation into full sun.  The mature photos are c/o a friend in Vanuatu and are from a private garden.  This is an extremely difficult species to find for sale.

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON $95
SALE PRICE THIS SIZE $80


Carpoxylon macrosperma 2g Carpoxylon macrosperma 2g Carpoxylon macrosperma 2g
Carpoxylon macrosperma 2g Carpoxylon macrosperma 2g Carpoxylon macrosperma 2g
Carpoxylon macrosperma domestic garden Vanuatu Carpoxylon macrosperma 2g Carpoxylon macrosperma 2g

RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA
THE NIKAU PALM


NEW ZEALAND PALM - BULGING CROWN SHAFT
A FAVORITE OF ALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE BAND SIZE

Native stands of Rhopalostylis sapida are found in temperate parts of New Zealand and also on coastal areas of Chatham and South Islands.  In these localities it is found in shaded forests and in the more moist bottoms of mountainous gullies.  One does not see it at high elevation where severe cold may be seen.  Rather it's in the coastal and warmer regions.  Being a slow growing species, it is reported that it takes ten to fifteen years in habitat before one begins to see a formed trunk.  One report done by the New Zealand government reported that it took forty years to show trunk and that ten meter trees were 200 years old.  The point here is that, as a species, the Nikau Palm is slow growing in its natural habitat.  Soil in the area is good draining and rainfall is ample

This is a single trunk palm that has green, upright leaves.  The hallmarks of this plant are the upright pointing leaves and the swollen crown shaft.  Almost always, the crown shaft is prominently larger in diameter than the trunk.  The trunk has rings from old leaf attachments.  Overall height after many decades is 25 to 35 feet or, on old specimens, even more.  Trunk diameter is eight to twelve inches.  Leaves are usually eight to twelve feet long.  Growth rate is slow.  Of note, we’re putting 3 to 4 leaf seedlings on sale in bands on a Ten Day Special.  .

REGULAR PRICE BAND $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND $50

Mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase for this discounted price.  This size is a piece of cake to ship.


RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA
RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA Rhopalostylis sapida   Rhopalostylis sapida 

 

DYPSIS ARENARUM
THE SAND PALM



SIMILAR TO DYPSIS LUTESCENS
BUT WHITE CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This thin trunked suckering palm is native to Madagascar where, in the northeastern area, it lives close to the sandy beaches.  Thus the common name.  It has green curved leaves with small leaflets.  The tubular crown shaft is white and the thin trunk is ringed.  It is distinguished from the Areca Palm by it's reddish petioles and blue-green leaflets.  It typically forms a clump of four to five individual plants.  It tolerates coastal sun and is cold hardy in the mid to upper 20's F.  It is as rare species.  We rarely have it for sale.

TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $55

Dypsis arenarum band Dypsis arenarum band Dypsis arenarum band
Dypsis arenarum band Dypsis arenarum rps Dypsis arenarum band

 

SABAL LOUISIANA
THE LOUISIANA PALMETTO PALM


SUPER SMALL, SUPER COLD HARDY FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This dwarf fan palm is touted as being the smallest variety of Sabal.  It is a variety of Sabal minor that has been found in the wild in Louisiana and adjacent states on either side.  It has blue-green leaves with a mature height of six feet.  It is also super cold hardy with reports of it going a bit below zero F.  As it is an understory palm in habitat, one would anticipate it'd do well in strong filtered light or perhaps half day sun.  In the 5th photo it is the band palm in the staff's right hand.  On the left is the Sabal etonia.  Both are nicely sized.  The last photo is c/o TS at RPS.  This is a difficult species to find.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $50

Sabal louisiana Sabal louisiana Sabal louisiana
Sabal louisiana Sabal louisiana  etonia left Sabal Louiiana rare palm seeds

 

DIOON SPINULOSUM
A CUSTOMER FAVORITE CYCAD

 

FILTERED LIGHT IN GARDEN OR INSIDE THE HOME
GREEN LEAVES, ELEGANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 15 GALLON SIZE


This species of a green cycad can be grown in the garden or as an interior palm.  Although you can't tell from the photos here, this cycad species can get quite tall.  I've seen photos from habitat with what appears to be over 20 feet of trunk.  But, such heights would require several centuries to occur.  Dioon spinulosum is native to tropical areas in Mexico where it grows in limestone forests.  Trunks don't get overly thick, typically 12 to 14 inches thick - but domestically often thinner.  Leaves are green and mildly armed.  Leaf length is about six feet.  My preference is to grow this species in filtered light.  Cold tolerance is into the mid twenties F.  At the nursery we usually have a good selection of this species from small to large.  We’re putting  a nice 15 gallon on sale - this actual plant.  It has a caudex 7 inches wide and 10 inches tall.  Of note, oversized 1 gallon also on special.  Most have caudexes of 3 to 4 inches.  Easy to ship.

REGULAR PRICE THIS 15G CYCAD $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $600
 

This plant can be mail ordered in a very large box.

Dioon spinulosum caudex 7 x 10 inches Dioon spinulosum caudex Dioon spinulosum caudex 7 x 10 inches
Dioon spinulosum Dioon spinulosum Dioon spinulosum

  

ZAMIA FISCHERI
AKA ZAMIA VASQUEZII



DWARF GREEN MEXICAN CYCAD
CONES AT A SMALL SIZE - NEVER OVER 3 TO FOUR FEET TALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL CIT POT SIZE
 

This is  small Mexican cycad with stems typically under one foot tall in size and leaves green in color and up to three feet long, sometimes shorter.  It usually holds about five or so leaves, sometimes more.  It is a variable species and leaflets can be lanceolate or wedge shaped.  Leaflets are quite thin in texture and have soft spines on the margins.  Overall, this species has a "fern-like" appearance and would not be considered spiny.  The names "vasquezii" replaced the more commonly known name of "fischeri" in the past fifteen years or so. 

The two plants shown here in the first two rows below are eight to ten years old.  One is a female in cone (illustrated).  I am also showing (last row) two super robust garden specimens.    

REGULAR PRICE CIT POT THIS SPECIES $295
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $255

Remember:  Mention this Special for your discounted price! 

Zamia fischeri vasquezii Zamia fischeri vasquezii Zamia fischeri vasquezii
Zamia fischeri vasquezii Zamia fischeri vasquezii Zamia fischeri vasquezii
Zamia fischeri vasquezii Zamia fischeri vasquezii Zamia fischeri vasquezii

  

ZAMIA AMBLYPHYLLIDIA
DWARF GREEN CYCAD

 

GOOD LOW PROFILE CYCAD
AGES OVER 10 YEARS - MANY CONING!

TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE PLANTS


This dwarf species of Zamia is from Puerto Rico and surrounding Caribbean areas.  It is a small cycad with a caudex of six inches.  It suckers, forming clumps.  Its leaves are about 3 feet long, arching downwards and the leaflets are small.  The petioles are unarmed.  It likes filtered light and tolerates temperatures into the upper twenties F.  It prefers partial sun or strong filtered light.  But, it can be grown in sun along our coastal areas here. It is an ideal cycad species where one wants plants to stay small.  It's perfect for planting next to a walkway.  We’re putting our citrus pot plant on Special.  Caudex sizes are 3 to 5 inches.  Most are clustering plants with cones.  Easy to mail order.  Remember to mention this Special.  Citrus pot shown first 6 photos. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT THIS SIZE $275

Zamia amblyphyllidia cit pot caudexes 3 to 5 inches, many in cone Zamia amblyphyllidia cit pot caudexes 3 to 5 inches, many in cone Zamia amblyphyllidia cit pot caudexes 3 to 5 inches, many in cone
Zamia amblyphyllidia cit pot caudexes 3 to 5 inches, many in cone Zamia amblyphyllidia cit pot caudexes 3 to 5 inches, many in cone Zamia amblyphyllidia cit pot caudexes 3 to 5 inches, many in cone
ZAMIA AMBLYPHYLLIDIA ZAMIA AMBLYPHYLLIDIA ZAMIA AMBLYPHYLLIDIA

 

CERATOZAMIA HILDAE
DWARF FILTERED LIGHT PLANT


MAXIMUM GARDEN HEIGHT TYPICALLY SIX FEET
TEN DAY SPECIAL ANY SIZE THIS SPECIES!


The first six pictures here show an example of a really nice 15 gallon mature plant with male cones.  It is a clustered specimen with three main coning caudexes.  This species is very small with leaves rarely to four feet long and a caudex size under six inches.  The hallmark of this species is the grouping of the leaflets - like little bow ties put onto the leaf stem.  Leaf color is always green.  Pictures below demonstrate this. 

I'd recommend filtered light.  It doesn't take up much room so it can fit into any garden.  It's a very "cute" species that people like.  It's also a wonderful patio plant.  I'd give it filtered light.  Cold tolerance is into the low 20's F.  These cycads are super easy to ship anywhere within the U.S.  We ship plants in their containers, soil and all.

TEN DAY SPECIAL:  15% OFF ANY PLANT THIS SPECIES!

Shown below are this nice 15g male plant and a citrus pot at the end.  Also, I'm showing you garden specimens.  Remember to mention this Special at the time of purchase to get this discount.  

Ceratozamia hildae Ceratozamia hildae Ceratozamia hildae
Ceratozamia hildae Ceratozamia hildae Ceratozamia hildae

 

ceratozamia hildae
Ceratozamia hildae ceratozamia hildae

ALTERNATHEA PARTYTIME
DWARF COLORFUL SPECIES


RED AND GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLDER ONE GALLON

This hybrid ornamental plant appeals to those who like color in the garden.  It only gets to about 2 feet tall and two feet wide and can tolerate good filtered light or sun.  The leaves are green with prominent pink-red mixed color as shown below.  They can be pruned to make a fuller plant and are not that difficult to grow.  They tolerate a freeze.  The one gallon on special are older plants and ready for planting.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE ONE GALLON $30

Alternathea partytime Alternathea partytime
Alternathea partytime Alternathea partytime  

 

PHLEBODIUM AUREUM
THE BLUE STAR FERN


SHORT HEIGHT – BLUE TO BLUE-GREEN LEAVES
CAN BE USED AS GROUND COVER
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON POTS


This species of blue, crawling fern is native to regions of the southeastern U.S., down through Mexico and Central American and into the Caribbean and South America.  It gets to heights of about two to three feet and is rhizomatous in nature.  It can slowly spread along the ground but is easy to control.  Leaf color is definitely a blue or blue-green color.  It can be used as a ground cover as shown below.  It likes filtered light and is cold hardy into the twenties F.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $55

The first six photos show our 5 gallon size on special. 


Blue Star Fern Phlebodium aureum Blue Star Fern Phlebodium aureum Blue Star Fern Phlebodium aureum
Blue Star Fern Phlebodium aureum Blue Star Fern Phlebodium aureum Blue Star Fern Phlebodium aureum
Blue Star Fern Blue Star Fern

 

ASIAN GUAVA
FRUIT TREE GIVING LARGE FRUITS


MEDIUM SIZED MATURE TREE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


The Asian Guava Tree - Psideium guajava - is a medium sized tree with green leaves and green edible fruit with pink centers.  The fruit produced is quite large - known to weigh up to 2 pounds per fruit.  So, one must prune the tree years so fruit is produced on stronger, more proximal branches.  Expect a mature tree of about 15 feet at most.  Asian Guava produce an amazing quantity of fruit.  They'd like full sun and tolerate temperatures below a freeze.  This is the first time I have offered these trees.  Photo of the fruit is c/o Wikipedia.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $65

Asian Guava Asian Guava Asian Guava
Asian Guava Asian Guava Guava fruit Wikipedia

  

SUPER-DWARF CAVENDISH FRUITING BANANAS
COLD HARDY – USUALLY NOT OVER 4-5 FEET TALL!
YES, WILL PRODUCE BANANAS!


TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G PLANTS

Recently, Bananas have been super popular and are somewhat difficult to find.  These Cavendish Bananas are a dwarf species.  What we’re offering today are the “super dwarf” form that behaves like the regular Cavendish but only gets 3 to 5 feet tall.  They don't get overhead.  And, they make small banana fruit.  They like sun and have a nice cold hardiness to at least 25 degrees or colder.  Also, to get them to fruit, you do have to keep up with the water but they are not water hogs.  Most folks in this area have no problem growing them or getting nice bananas.  Limited numbers available.  The 5 gallon shown is about four years old and suckering. 

REGULAR PRICE 5G SIZE $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $75

Just mention this special when purchasing to get this price.  I do not have any photos of mature plants.  This is a new hybrid, just on the market.


Cavendish Banana super dwarf Cavendish Banana super dwarf Cavendish Banana super dwarf
Cavendish Banana super dwarf Cavendish Banana super dwarf Cavendish Banana super dwarf

 

ALOCASIA METALHEAD
HYBRID VARIETY WITH SHINY NEW LEAVES


PURPLE STEMS & BACKS OF LEAVES
FIVE FEET TALL MATURE - FILTERED LIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


Alocasia are a group of tropical pants that have diamond or heart shaped leaves.  Some like sun, others shade.  They are similar to Colocasia.  There are over 80 types / hybrids of Alocasia.  A. metalhead gets its name from the sheen that the leaves display.  This is a A. portora hybrid and gets to a height of about 5 feet and has shiny green-purple leaves with purple backs and stems.  Older leaves tend to be green.  This species wants filtered light or a bit of sun.  It tolerates a freeze.  Leaves are upright and it is a very attractive tropical plant. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $175

 

Alocasia metal head 15g Alocasia metal head 15g Alocasia metal head 15g
Alocasia metal head 15g Alocasia metal head 15g Alocasia metal head 15g
Alocasia metal head 15g    

 

TILLANDSIA SPECIES WITH VIOLET BLUE FLOWERS
CLUSTERS IN BLOSSOM IN SPRINGTIME


A TYPE OF AIR PLANT - JUST IN
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE CLUSTERS

As I've mentioned before, I'm not a Tillandsia expert.  But, I could not pass when a private collector offered me several clumps of a blue-gray Tillandsia in full blossom.  The blossoms are a violet-blue (photos make them appear a bit pink - which they are not).    I was told by the collector that the blossom every spring to summer with lots of flowers.  The clumps are composed of ten to fifteen plants.  I did my research and they are similar to Tillandsia recurvata or neglecta - But this is only a guess.  They'd like sun or part sun and to be watered at least weekly.  They can be mounted to a tree limb, post or a fence.  I've never had or seen this variety before.  These would be easy to mail order.  We have small to medium clusters as well as large clusters on sale.  The larger clusters contain 15 to 20 plants.

TEN DAY SPECIAL SMALL-MEDIUM CLUSTERS $65

TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE CLUSTERS $85


Tillandsia clusters with small blue flowers - recurvata or neglecta Tillandsia clusters with small blue flowers - recurvata or neglecta Tillandsia clusters with small blue flowers - recurvata or neglecta
Tillandsia clusters with small blue flowers - recurvata or neglecta Tillandsia clusters with small blue flowers - recurvata or neglecta Tillandsia clusters with small blue flowers - recurvata or neglecta

 

FRIDAY, 7 OCTOBER, 2022 

WATER FEATURES IN THE GARDEN


POND, STREAM, POOL, WATERFALL
ALL ENCHANTING AND RELAXING


There's something about having a water feature in the garden that gardeners find very appealing.  I'm not sure if it's the movement, sound or just appearance.  But, people will go to great lengths to make it perfect.  I've had customers create 100 foot long streams, rock mountains with waterfalls into pools, coy ponds,  or simple circulating ponds.  I even had one who put in a volcano waterfall with a large palm being "the flames" of the volcano.  Here I'm showing some photos of more classical usages of water in the garden.  I hope you enjoy them - who knows, maybe you'll get a few ideas.



water feature in garden water feature in garden water feature in garden
water feature in garden water feature in garden water feature in garden
water feature in garden water feature in garden water feature in garden
water feature in garden water feature in garden water feature in garden
water feature in garden water feature in garden water feature in garden
water feature in garden garden pond garden pond

 

ENCEPHALARTOS FEROX
SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD


STUNNING RED FEMALE CONE
GREEN "HOLLY FERN - LIKE" LEAFLETS


The first six photos below are of a 15g Encephalartos ferox at the nursery that has put out an almost "Fire Engine Red" female cone.  I fear the real color is not showing on this Webpage, but it's A a true red in real life.  This plant is for sale.  The caudex size is 12.5 inches.   I've found that male cones don't have the same intensely red color.  See last photo.  Leaves are green and leaflets are armed with small spines.  Many say the leaves look like a Holly Fern.  Mature, this is a medium sized cycad that likes either filtered light inland or some sun along the coast.   But, it's best not to grow it in full sun anywhere locally as leaves tend to get a lime green color.  Cold hardiness is down to the low 20's F. 

I have shown an assortment of other photos below including a smaller plant at the nursery.   We have a nice assortment of sizes available.  But, only mature, larger plants will cone.

Encephalartos ferox female red cone Encephalartos ferox female red cone Encephalartos ferox female red cone
Encephalartos ferox female red cone Encephalartos ferox female red cone Encephalartos ferox female red cone
Encephalartos ferox female red cone Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox female red cone
Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox female red cone

 

BURRETIOKENTIA KOGHIENSIS
RARE NEW CALEDONIAN PALM


NARROW TRUNK & WHITE CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 15G PLANTS

Back in the year 2000, I was the President of the International Palm Society.  I set up the 1998 Biennial in Thailand at Nong Nook Gardens.  I arranged with the Palm Society of New Caledonia to have to 2000 Biennial in their country.  The palms of New Caledonia are some of the most exciting and prettiest palms of the world.  This gave my son Jesse and I a great opportunity to see the New Caledonian palms in the wild. 

About 45 minutes out of Noumea (the capitol) is Mount Koghi.  This is the home habitat for Burretiokentia koghiensis.  It has a thin to medium trunk, a white crown shaft and gets to about 25 feet tall.  It's very beautiful and does great in Southern California.  Most grow it in part day sun.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-twenties F. (sort of like a King Palm with tolerance of cold).  Shown here are plants that we germinated about 10 years ago.  They are finally really nice, old 15g plants.  You'll not see locally grown plants of this species and size around at all.  And, never on sale.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25G $245

We only have a few of these, so don't dally.  It's a fabulous addition to any garden.  Mention this Special.


Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis
Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis
Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis

BURRETIOKENTIA KOGHIENSIS
RARE NEW CALEDONIAN PALM


NARROW TRUNK & WHITE CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE 25G PLANTS

FOR DESCRIPTION AND MATURE PHOTOS, SEE ABOVE

 

REGULAR PRICE 25G $595
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25G $525


Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis
Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis

 

CHAMAEDOREA COSTARICANA
ONE OF THE BEST BAMBOO PALMS


EASY TO GROW - A GREAT INTERIOR PALM 
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


This suckering palm species is native to Mexico and Central America.  It is one of about four types of "Bamboo Palms" and is probably either the best or in a stiff competition with Chamaedorea hooperiana.  This species gets to a mature height of twelve to sixteen feet, has strong 1 inch to 1.5 inch trunks which are green in color with prominent rings, and about three to four foot long leaves.  It is an upright grower and does clump.  It doesn't run.  It takes filtered light or morning sun along the coast.  I've even heard of some growing it in full sun although I'd not recommend it.  It is a good growing species.  Cold hardiness is into the mid to lower 20's F. 

Below I'm showing in the first six photos the 15g size which we’re putting on sale.  Plants this size will really take off in the garden.  If you are interested in mail order, select a 5 gallon plant which is easier to ship.  BTW, this species is fairly difficult to find.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $220

Remember:  Mention this Special for this Blog Only discounted price.  



Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana
Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana
Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX PURPUREA
THE PURPLE CROWN SHAFT KING PALM

 


VERY BEAUTIFUL - GOOD GROWER
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

The native home of Archontophoenix purpurea is the Mt. Lewis mountain range in Queensland, Australia.  This species is known for the purple color to the crown shaft.  It is found at an elevation up to 4000 feet.  Mature height is quoted to be over fifty feet, but in habitat and culture I didn't see one this tall.  Cold hardiness is about 25 degrees F.  It takes full coastal sun.  The degree of purple in the crown shaft is variable but never "lollipop" purple.  The underside of the leaves is silver and there is ramenta hairs only on this side.  On younger plants the leaf bases and leaf stem tend to have a yellow color. 

I'm showing our 15g size (first 6 photos below) which we're putting on a Ten Day Special.  These are nicely sized for their pots and either single or multiple (more than one per pot).  We also have other sizes. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $200


Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase to get this discount.


Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea
Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea
Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea

 

RHAPIDOPHYLLUM HYSTRIX
THE NEEDLE PALM

WORLD'S MOST COLD HARDY PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON SIZE

There is no doubt in my mind that this species is the most cold tolerant of any palm species.  It is native to the southeastern United States with native habitats stretching from South Carolina down to northern Florida and into Alabama and Mississippi.  There are reports of this species tolerating below zero degrees F.  Now, this doesn't mean that you can grow it in Michigan.  But, in areas that see significant cold such as North Carolina, central Texas or even New Mexico, this species might work for you.

It is a suckering fan palm and known as the "Needle Palm" because it forms dark colored, protuberant needles on the trunk.  One photo below shows the spines.  In sun the leaf color is a silver green with more silver underneath.  In shade the color gets dark green, reminiscent of a  Rhapis Palm.  Trunks are usually under three feet tall and four to six inches thick.  But, because the leaves come upwards, the overall height of the plant can be six to seven feet or taller.  They can get a bit bushy.  The common name of “Needle Palm” comes from the fact that the stubby trunks have long dark colored needles – reminiscent of a knitting needle.  This is a very slow growing species that slowly crawls the ground by suckering.  These are rare to find for sale.  We're putting 5g on special.  A photo below showns the needles on the trunk.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 5G $110


Rhapidophyllum hystrix 5g Needle Palm  Rhapidophyllum hystrix 5g Needle Palm  Rhapidophyllum hystrix 5g Needle Palm 
Rhapidophyllum hystrix 5g Needle Palm  Rhapidophyllum hystrix 5g Needle Palm  Rhapidophyllum hystrix 5g Needle Palm 
Rhapidophyllum hystrix   Rhapidophyllum hystrix  Needle Palm  Rhapidophyllum hystrix Needle Palm 

 

PRESTOEA MONTANA
AKA PRESTOEA ACUMINATA VAR. MONTANA

 

RARE PINNATE PALM FROM PUERTO RICO
TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD SIZE 5 GALLON

Prestoea is a genus that is very closely related to another palm genus, Euterpe.  It is found in the Caribbean, Central and South America.  Essentially all Euterpe are crown shafted palms.  Many of the Prestoea are not.  There are also distinctions between the flowers of these two genera.  Also, many of the Prestoea are suckering.  But, there is one that is single trunk.  This is Prestoea montana, native to mountainous areas of Puerto Rico.  I've always known of this species as not having a crown shaft.  But, I've seen photos (including ones from native habitats) where a crown shaft is seen.  

The hallmarks of this species are its wide and very shiny green leaves, its somewhat slender trunk and its overall beautiful appearance.  Plant heights can reach forty feet or more.  This species should be grown in part day sun or filtered light.  It likes rich soil and ample moisture.  I'd estimate its cold tolerance is down to about a freeze or a bit less.  It is not a species for a beginner to try.  We're putting the 5g plants on special.  Note that this species has historically been known as "Prestoea montana" but in more recent years has been considered a variety of P. acuminata.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110

Remember:  Mention this Special for this price!  Mail order possible.


Prestoea montana 5g  Prestoea montana 5g  Prestoea montana 5g
Prestoea montana 5g  Prestoea montana 5g  Prestoea montana 5g
Prestoea montana Prestoea montana 5g  Prestoea montana

 

SABAL CAUSIARUM
LARGE TRUNKED TROPICAL FAN PALM

 

SMOOTH AND LIGHT COLORED TRUNK
SUPER COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This is one of my favorite Sabal species.  It's native to various Caribbean Islands including Puerto Rico and Cuba.  It can get to height of at least 35 feet and has a trunk that is smooth and a light tan to gray color.  Trunks are thick, up to about 30 inches.  Leaf color is blue-green.  Growth rate is good and it likes sun.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-teens F.  The 5g size shown below are nice.  We’re putting this size on sale.  Get them in the ground and within a few years you’ll have a decent sized palm.  I’m showing some mature plants below as well. 

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110


Sabal causiarum 5g Sabal causiarum 5g Sabal causiarum 5g
Sabal causiarum 5g Sabal causiarum 5g Sabal causiarum 5g
Sabal causiarum Sabal causiarum Sabal causiarum

 

PHOENIX RUPICOLA
THE CLIFF DATE PALM

 

MEDIUM SIZE -THINNER TRUNK THAN CANARY
FAIRLY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE PLANTS

I don't know if you've looked for this species, but the Cliff Date Palm is not so easy to find.  It is native to India and is about half the size of the Canary Island Palm in terms of trunk diameter and mature height.  Also, the crown is much smaller.  It is an armed species and has other characteristics of Phoenix like the induplicate leaflets (water held "in" - V shaped ).  But, many think this is the prettiest of all the Date Palms.  It typically gets fifteen to twenty-five feet tall.  The leaves are very pretty and green.  The crown is not overly large.  Leaves curve downwards.  Growth rate is medium, it tolerates full sun and is cold hardy into the mid-twenties or lower.  Shown below are our 5g plants, mostly singles with a few doubles.  We’re putting them on special.  These are shippable.
 
REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110

Remember to mention this Special for this discount.   


Phoenix rupicola Phoenix rupicola Phoenix rupicola
Phoenix rupicola Phoenix rupicola Phoenix rupicola
Phoenix rupicola Phoenix rupicola Phoenix rupicola

 

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR


A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM

TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD SIZED 5 GALLON PLANTS

For several decades we've been growing this stunning blue fan palm from Madagascar.  These are the blue form.  This palm species loves sun, heat and is cold hardy to the low 20’s F.  It doesn’t like the grower to fool with or cut its roots.  These cannot be transplanted once established in the garden.  They get a husky trunk and probably about 40 feet tall in many decades.  This is a very attractive palm and should be given room in the garden to show it off.  Many people in desert locations have found they can grow it.  Shown below is our 5 gallon size.  This is a great starting size.


REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $100

Remember:  Mention this Special for this price.  This size is easy to mail order.

Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis
Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis
Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis

 

EUTERPE EDULIS ORANGE CROWNSHAFT
PROMINENT ORANGE CROWNSHAFT - STUNNING



STUNNING COLOR FOR THE GARDEN

TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GALLON SIZE

Many of you may know of Euterpe edulis, a thin solitary palm with a long green crown shaft.  However, in Southern Brazil and possibly northern Argentina, there is a form of this species that has a prominent orange crown shaft.  Considered by some to be "Euterpe sp. espiritosantensis", others feel it is a variety of E. edulis.  It has a think trunk and a three foot long crownshaft.  It wants to be grown in filtered light and to work its way into partial direct sunlight.  Cold tolerance is about a freeze.  This is a slow growing palm and near impossible to find available.  We presently have a very limited number of two gallon plants.  They were repotted in winter.  In the spring of last year we had a few 5 gallon that sold out in a few days.  These are extremely difficult to find and always expensive if you can find one.

TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GALLON $65

I only have a few.  The mature specimens photos are c/o Tobias Spanner at RPS.

Euterpe species orange crown shaft Euterpe species orange crown shaft Euterpe species orange crown shaft
Euterpe orange crown shaft Euterpe species orange crown shaft Euterpe orange crown shaft
Euterpe orange crown shaft TS RPS   Euterpe orange crown shaft TS RPS

 

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM


TALL, SINGLE TRUNK SPECIES
ELEGANT WITH LONG CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON SIZE

This super popular palm is native to south Florida and Cuba.  It gets a very tall trunk with a height of forty feet or more.  The crown shaft is long and a prominent green.  The base of the trunk is swollen just above the ground.  Often, you'll also see bulging in the mid-trunk.  It is a full sun plant and some are growing it in desert areas with success - in full sun.  Cold tolerance is like a King Palm, about 25 degrees F.  The 1gallon we have are about 18 inches tall in the pot and three to four years old.  We also have 15g, 5g and bands.  We are hoping to offer larger sizes shortly.  There's a shortage of this species on the California market. Some of the photos below show this species being grown in Southern CA.  This size is shippable for mail order.
  

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 1 GALLON $55

Mention this Special for your discount. 

READ MORE ABOUT ROYAL PALMS


Roystonea regia Royal Palm Roystonea regia Royal Palm Roystonea regia Royal Palm
Roystonea regia Royal Palm Roystonea regia Royal Palm Roystonea regia Royal Palm
Roystonea regia Balboa Park Roystonea regia Roystonea regia

 

SERENOA REPENS
SHORTER CLUMPING FAN PALM
SOUGHT AFTER BLUE FORM



VERY COLD HARDY, SUN LOVING
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This suckering fan palm is native to the southeastern gulf states of the U.S. and some adjacent island areas.  Native habitats even extend up into the Carolinas.  It gets to a mature height of six to eight feet.  It loves sun and heat.  Leaf color varies from blue to green or somewhere in-between.  The plants on sale today are in band containers and oversized – about 6 to 7 years old.  Yes, they are slow growing.  We do have larger, but on this batch of bands we are offering a very good price.  It has smaller sized leaves.  It forms a clump over time.  The seeds for these came from blue parents.  Of note, young plants never show blue until larger and out in direct sun.   Cold hardiness is into the upper teens F.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE BAND SIZE $50

Serenoa repens Serenoa repens Serenoa repens
Serenoa repens Serenoa repens Serenoa repens
Serenoa repens Serenoa repens Serenoa repens

 

ASSORTED CYCAD SEEDLINGS
VARIOUS SPECIES


MOST FOR SUN - SOME FOR FILTERED LIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZES AS BELOW


Below I'm showing eight species of exotic cycads from three genera.  I'm putting all on a Ten Day Special with the prices shown.  I'm not describing each species on this post.  The three that can take filtered light are Cycas debaoensis, E. ferox, and Lepidozamia peroffskyana.  The others can tolerate full coastal sun.  As with all cycads, if you live in a desert area, only give the sun lovers a few hours of sun.  All of these can be mail ordered within the U.S. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL ALL BAND CYCADS BELOW


Cycas debaoensis
Band Size $85

   
Cycas debaoensis Cycas debaoensis

Encephalarto cerinus
Band size $85

   
Encephalartos cerinus Encephalarto cerinus Encephalarto cerinus

Encephalartos eugene-maraisii
Band size $95

   
Encephalartos eugene-maraisii Encephalartos eugene-maraisii Encephalartos eugene-maraisii

Encephalartos ferox
Band size $55

   
Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox Encephalartos ferox

Encephalartos horridus
Band size $65

   
Encephalartos horridus Encephalartos horridus Encephalartos horridus

Encephalartos munchii
Band size $75

   
Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii

Encephalartos paucidentatus
Band size $75

   
Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus

Lepidozamia peroffskyana
Band size $55

   
Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana Lepidozamia peroffskyana

 

DIOON HOLMGRENII
RARE MEXICAN DIOON CYCAD


LARGE CITRUS POT PLANTS
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE

Among cycad enthusiasts, this species is known as a rare Mexican cycad that is difficult to find.  What we are offering on special are very old citrus pot plants with caudex size of 3 to 4 inches!  This species is sun loving and cold tolerant to the low 20's F.  It is native to Mexico.  The plants shown here are from seeds we got about ten years ago. It grows at a medium rate.  It is known for the fact that it has long and upright leaves.  Leaf color is blue green and leaflets are armed with spines.  These can be mail ordered in a medium sized box quite easily.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE CITRUS POT $325
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE CIT POT $250

I only have a few of these.  You must mention this special when purchasing to get these prices. These plants are very large for their pots.

Dioon holmgrenii Dioon holmgrenii Dioon holmgrenii
Dioon holmgrenii Dioon holmgrenii Dioon holmgrenii
Dioon holmgrenii Dioon holmgrenii Dioon holmgrenii

 

CORDYLINE TERMINALIS SINGAPORE TWIST
NEW SPECIES TO OUR NURSERY



COLORFUL HAWAIIAN TI TYPE PLANT
BUT, TOTALLY DIFFERENT!  LEAVES IN ONE PLANE
TEN DAY SPECIAL SIZE SHOWN

 

For the past two years, we have gotten in something brand new to the nursery market and our Nursery.  They typically have sold out within a few days.  It is a plant that is super colorful.  It may look like the Hawaiian Ti plant.  But, it is totally different.  This species is a dischitous type plant.  Its leaves are in one single plane - from the front is totally seen and wide but from the side it is narrow.  It's similar to a Traveler Palm in this way.  Also, it is a rhizomitous plant.  It grows from rhizomes in the ground.  So, it is suckering!  Leaves are wide like the Hawaiian Ti but the color is shown more on older leaves.  They are purple-red.  Leaf stems are a colorful red. 

Mature height is four to seven feet and it will take coastal sun.  Inland areas would consider part sun or strong filtered light.  By report, it will take a freeze. We only have a few dozen plants.  They’ll probably sell out quickly.  They can be mail ordered but may take an oversized box to ship.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $85


Cordyline terminalis singapore twist Cordyline terminalis singapore twist Cordyline terminalis singapore twist
Cordyline terminalis singapore twist Cordyline terminalis singapore twist Cordyline terminalis singapore twist
Cordyline terminalis singapore twist Cordyline terminalis singapore twist Cordyline terminalis singapore twist

 

PANDANUS UTILUS
THE SCREW PINE

 

THE BEST AND ONE OF THE FEW PANDANUS GOOD FOR THIS AREA
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON PLANTS

Pandanus utilus is called the Screw Pine but is not a pine at all.  It's actually a monocot (similar to palms) and native to Madagascar, the Mauritius Islands and some surrounding areas.  It gets it's name by the arrangement of leaves which come off the trunk in spiraling fashion, always the same direction.  Thus, the leaves spin off at different angles in a swirl.  Leaves are rather thin and have spines along the margins.  The trunk on this species is quite amazing.  It forms aerial roots (sausage like) that come to the ground for stability.  Trunks fork and form multiple heads of leaves.  Trunks can also be quite smooth, almost snakeskin-like.  It has large fruit clusters that are bigger than grenades.  But, it is a dioecious species and you need a male and female plant to set viable seeds.  Leaf color is green with a sheen of blue.  Overall height is variable, but old specimens can easily be over thirty feet tall with lots of branches.  It takes sun or part sun.  Cold tolerance is probably in the mid-twenties F.  We are offering only a few 5g as shown that we have in stock.  This is an hard species to find for sale.
 
REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100

Just mention this blog special when purchasing to get this price.  This size can be mail  ordered.  The only other Pandanus that we’ve had luck with is P. furcatus, which we also have.  And, we’re trying a new species Pandanus dubius. 


Pandanus utilis Pandanus utilis Pandanus utilis
Pandanus utilis Pandanus utilis Pandanus utilis
Pandanus utilis Pandanus utilis Pandanus utilis

 

ALOCASIA LOW RIDER
TRUE DWARF GREEN HYBRID

NEVER OVER 2 FEET TALL - FAIRLY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This dwarf Alocasia is a hybrid of Alocasia portora - which is much taller and larger than this hybrid.  Mature height is typically 18 inches.  Leaf stems are striped as you can see on the photo.   Leaf color is green.  This plant tolerates partial or perhaps full sun along the coast or limited sun / strong filtered light in interior areas.  It is fairly cold hardy and winters over in zone 7B and above.  We're putting 5 gallon on sale.  Sorry, but I have no photos of mature garden plants.


REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $65

This size can be shipped mail order.



Alocasia lowrider 5g Alocasia lowrider 5g Alocasia lowrider 5g
Alocasia lowrider 5g Alocasia lowrider 5g Alocasia lowrider 5g

 

ALOCASIA WENTII
SEMI-DWARF TROPICAL ELEPHANT EAR PLANT

 

PURPLE UNDERSIDE TO LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON PLANTS

This is a species of Elephant Ear Alocasia.  Some feel it comes from the island of New Guinea but others feel that it is a hybrid of unknown origin.  The reason I mention it is because it is known to be quite cold hardy, perhaps even adaptable to growing zone 7B.  It is a small plant, typically under 3 feet.  The leaves are smaller than many other Elephant Ear Plants. The dorsal side of the leaves are green (sometimes black-green) while the underside is purple-black.  It prefers to stay dry in the winter when cold and likes filtered light.  It is a nice companion plant for any garden.  Cold tolerance is easily into the upper twenties F.  Shown below are good sized 5 gallon with multiple stems.  Of note, some are using this species as an interior plant.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON THIS SPECIES $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $75

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase.  Mail order possible.



Alocasia wentii 5g Alocasia wentii 5g Alocasia wentii 5g
Alocasia wentii 5g Alocasia wentii 5g Alocasia wentii 5g
Alocasia wentii 5g    

 

BIRDS NEST ANTHURIUM – ANTHURIUM HOOKERI
A PERFECT UNDERSTORY COMPANION PLANT


ABOUT FOUR TO SIX FEET TALL - LEATHERY, DARK GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

Enthusiast are always looking for attractive companion plants that don't get too big.  Shown here is what's called the "Birds Nest" Anthurium.  Most of these plants are felt to either be the species Anthurium hookeri or a hybrid of it.  They are good for filtered light situations and rarely get over six feet tall.  The leaves are long, wide and very thick to the touch.  Their leaf surface is wavy.  The nursery plants below are nicely sized 5 gallon plants. This is a good starter size for the garden and can be mail ordered.  This is the size most people buy.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F.  Flowers are red, as are the tiny seeds.   These plants are real winners and can be mail ordered.  I am also showing a few garden plants.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $80

The last photo is c/o Wikipedia


Anthurium hookeri 5g Anthurium hookeri 5g Anthurium hookeri 5g
Anthurium hookeri 5g Anthurium hookeri 5g Anthurium hookeri 5g
Anthurium hookeri 5g Anthurium hookeri Anthurium hookeri Wikipedia

 

DICHORISANDRA THYRIFLORA
THE BLUE GINGER - HARD TO FIND


SHORT TO MEDIUM SIZE - BLUE BLOSSOMS
TEN DAY SPECIAL SEVEN GALLON, GARDEN READY PLANTS

This is actually not a true Ginger at all.  It is native to all areas of the new world including the U.S.  It produces actual blue flowers.  We have a limited number of two gallon plants that we’re putting on special.  This is a starter size.  This species wants filtered light in a warmer coastal area.  In fact, some along the coast succeed with several hours of morning sun.  They are late blooming compared to almost all other “Gingers”.  They tend to blossom in fall.  In somewhat colder regions, they may need protection from a freeze.  They do sucker and canes are thin.  Expect mature height at about five feet.  This plant is not for full, hot sun.  They need average water – backing off when it’s cold.  These are rare to see for sale.  We are offering 7 gallon plants on Sale.

REGULAR PRICE SEVEN GALLON $150

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $125

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when purchasing



Blue Ginger 7g Blue Ginger 7g Blue Ginger 7g
Blue Ginger 7g Blue Ginger 7g Blue Ginger 7g
Blue Ginger 7g bLUE GINGER Blue Ginger flower

 

THE TRAVELER PALM
RAVENALA MADAGASCARENSIS
BANANA APPEARING TREE IN ONE PLANE


CAN BE GROWN IN SOUTHERN CA
NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND LATELY
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON SIZE


For over a year folks have called us to obtain smaller sized Traveler Palms.  But, we didn't have any.  In fact, the industry is totally sold out of this species.  We can now announce that we have available a small number of fairly nice 5 gallon plants.  They are about 3 feet tall in their pots.  We have about ten for sale. This is a quick growing plant and these should do well for most of you that don't freeze.  They like sun in most areas but do not take a freeze - which will melt them overnight.  Also be aware that they do sucker.  We recommend removing the suckers as they look better as a single trunk plant.  Remember, this species puts out banana type leaves in one plane.  We’re putting our 5 gallon on sale.  The 7th photo is c/o JS and the 8th by Wikipedia.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $100

To read more on the Traveler Palm, click here:  
TRAVELER PALM ARTICLE


 
Ravanala madagascarensis Traveler Palm 5g   Ravanala madagascarensis Traveler Palm 5g   Ravanala madagascarensis Traveler Palm 5g  
Ravanala madagascarensis Traveler Palm 5g   Ravanala madagascarensis Traveler Palm 5g   Ravanala madagascarensis Traveler Palm 5g  
Ravanala madagascarensis Traveler Palm BY jS  Ravanala madagascarensis Traveler Palm Wikipedia   Ravanala madagascarensis Traveler Palm   

 

WEDNESDAY, 5 OCTOBER, 2022 

ENCEPHALARTOS HORRIDUS
SUPER BLUE SO AFRICAN CYCAD



VARIOUS SIZES AVAILABLE
LOVES SUN ALONG THE COAST
ONE OF MOST POPULAR CYCADS AROUND!

By far, the most popular rare cycad we sell is Encephalartos horridus.  I don't know if it's the gnarly, spiny leaflets that thrills people.  Or, the smaller size.  Or, the intense blue color.  But, somehow people love this plant and we can hardly keep them in stock.  It is slow growing, has prominent barbs on the edge of the leaflets and has a small crown width - usually five feet or less.  A two foot trunk would be about it's maximum caudex height.  It can sucker.  Along the coast it likes full sun - in the desert, a few hours.  Cold hardiness is about 22 degrees F.  Shown here are a 5g, 25g and some band sized seedlings.  The last two pictures are of garden plants.  Of note, because of this species popularity, we often run out on certain sizes.  You might want to check out an almost identical species, Encephalartos trispinosus.  We have a good supply of them.

Encephalartos horridus Encephalartos horridus Encephalartos horridus
Encephalartos horridus Encephalartos horridus Encephalartos horridus
Encephalartos horridus Encephalartos horridus Encephalartos horridus

  

ARECA MACROCARPA
PHILIPPINE PALM


SIMILAR TO ARECA CATHECHU
I FIGURED YOU'VE NEVER SEEN ONE

Although I am not growing or offering this rare palm species at the nursery, I thought I'd show you a few photographs from the Chapman Research Station in Miami. It is so rarely seen or grown that there are minimal photos on the Internet.  It is a medium sized, crown shafted palm that grows in the Philippines and, surprisingly, is mentioned as being somewhat cold hardy.  I am not sure what that means.  Here we cannot grow Areca catechuand this species closely resembles it.  I know of no one here growing Areca macrocarpa here.  It is supposed to get to a height of about 20-25 feet.  The crown shaft is a bright green and the overall appearance is quite elegant.  The first five photos are of this species.  The bottom row of A. catechu.  If anyone has information on this species, please contact me.

 
Areca macrocarpa Areca macrocarpa Areca macrocarpa
Areca macrocarpa Areca macrocarpa Arca catechu
Arca catechu Areca catechu  

 

ROYSTONEA OLERACEA
THE SOUTH AMERICAN ROYAL PALM



TALL PINNATE PALM WITH LUSH GREEN FOLIAGE
LONG PROMINENT CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE


This species of Royal Palm is native to the lower Caribbean Islands and northern South America.  References say it can reach heights of sixty feet but I've personally seen a grove of 100 year old trees in New Caledonia that surpass 100 feet.  They are fast growing, have green leaves, a prominent crown shaft and hold their leaves typically in the upper half of the leaf-crown sphere.  In other ways, this species is quite similar to the classic Cuban Royal Palm.  They want sun and are cold hardy to about 25 degrees F.  The size shown here on Special is in a 25 gallon pot and at least ten feet tall in its pot.

 

REGULAR PRICE 25 GALLON $550
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON $485


Roystonea oleracea Roystonea oleracea Roystonea oleracea
Roystonea oleracea Roystonea oleracea Roystonea oleracea
Roystonea oleracea Roystonea oleracea Roystonea oleracea

 

COCCOTHRINAX ARGENTEA
MEDIUM SIZED FAN PALM


SMALL TRUNK - SILVER BACK TO LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE

This medium size and very attractive fan palm is native to areas of Florida, Mexico and into the Caribbean.  It has a blue green leaf color with more prominent silver on the underside of the leaf.  Taxonomists seem recently to be lumping together Coccothrinax argentea and argentata.  Mature height is rarely to twenty feet.  Leaves are about three to four feet across and prominently divided into segments.  As this species grows, fibrous material falls off the trunk to give a cleaner and more smooth surface.  It likes heat and sun.  It might also do well in desert areas.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F.  We are putting our 25 gallon plants on sale.  Very limited numbers apply.  This species is ideal for people who want a thin trunked and different fan palm that doesn’t take up much room and tolerates full hot sun.  Note that, in a pot, it is slow growing. 

REGULAR PRICE 25 GALLON $550
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON $485


Just mention this Blog Special when you purchase for your discount. 


Coccothrinax species prob. argentea 25g Coccothrinax species prob. argentea 25g Coccothrinax species prob. argentea 25g
Coccothrinax species Coccothrinax species prob. argentea 25g Coccothrinax species prob. argentea 25g
Coccothrinax argentea Coccothrinax argentea

 

LIVISTONA LANUGINOSA
THE CAPE RIVER LIVISTONATHE WOOLY LIVISTONA



TALL FAN PALM WITH THIN TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This Australian fan palm is a very interesting species and also known as the "Wooly Livistona".  It is apparently threatened in habitat.   In the northeastern part of Australia it lives at an altitude of 200 meters.   It reaches a height of over fifty feet with a trunk that’s about a foot thick.  Leaves are bluish or blue-green, stiff and waxy.  Leaf stems have barbs and leaves extend out six to eight feet.  It is most similar to Livistona marie but, by report, has larger purple fruit.  It is one of the most rare species of this genus.  It enjoys full hot sun.  Exact cold tolerance is unclear but probably into the mid-twenties F.  We have a limited number of 15g which we’re putting on special.  The habitat photo is by John Dowe of AU.

REGULAR PRICE 15G SIZE $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE $210

Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa
Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa
Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa by John Dowe  

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX BEATRICAE
RARE VARIETY OF THE KING PALM

 

SILVER UNDERSIDES TO LEAFLETS
GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

Archontophoenix Alexandrae is native to Australia.  It has green leaves that have silver discoloration to the underside of the leaflets as shown below.  Leaves tend to stay flat without the twist on their axis as seen with the more common King Palm, Archotophoenix cunninghamiana.  Although they are a tad less cold hardy than the latter, they are felt by most to be more beautiful.  Mature height can exceed 50 feet.  The crown shaft with green without the brown discoloration seen with the common King Palm.  Cold hardiness is about 26 degrees F.  They can take coastal sun but half-day sun might give the pretties specimen.  The 15g size shown below is a single but I also have multiples at the same sale price.   

REGULAR PRICE 15G $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $200

Remember:  mention this Special to get your discount when you purchase!


 
Archontophoenix alexandrae Archontophoenix alexandrae  Archontophoenix alexandrae 
Archontophoenix alexandrae  Archontophoenix alexandrae  Archontophoenix alexandrae 
Archontophoenix alexandrae  Archontophoenix alexandrae  Archontophoenix alexandrae 

 

RHAPIS MULTIFIDA
A RARE TYPE OF LADY PALM

 
ONE OF THE BEST PALMS FOR INSIDE
GREAT GARDEN PLANT AS WELL
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS

This is a very rare species of suckering palm and is near impossible to find  This species is from China and is often mistaken for Rhapis humilus.  But, it is a smaller species, getting to about 8 feet tall whereas humilus gets about twice as tall.  It performs well inside the home or office and also is quite easy to grow outside in filtered light.  The stems of multifida are much more attractive than the common Lady Palm, Rhapis excelsa.  It also carries more leaflets per leaf than the Lady Palm and is overall a more attractive plant.  The leaflets are narrow and come to a point like Rhapis humilus.  Side by side, the majority of our customers prefer the Rhapis multifida to the Rhapis excelsa.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties or lower, F.  Outdoors, this species prefers filtered light.   One must be careful not to give Rhapis too much fertilizer or leaf burn may occur.  The 15g plants are nicely sized and put into their containers in late spring so one doesn’t have to repot them after purchase. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE 15G $400
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15 GALLON $300

The sale plants are shown in the first 7 photos.

 

Rhapis multifida 15g Rhapis multifida 15g Rhapis multifida 15g
Rhapis multifida 15g Rhapis multifida 15g Rhapis multifida 15g
Rhapis multifida 15g Rhapis multifida Rhapis multifida
Rhapis multifida Rhapis multifida Rhapis multifida

 

BURRETIOKENTIA VIEILLARDII
THE TIGER PALM - STRIPED CROWN SHAFT



ANOTHER SPECIES OF THIS GREAT GENUS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

This species of Burretiokentia comes from the highest elevation of the three species of this genus from New Caledonia.  It grows at altitudes of almost 4000 feet.  It has a thin trunk of about six inches and can get to sixty feet tall.  It has a prominently bulging crown shaft that is known for it's diagonally dark markings.  Thus, the name "Tiger Palm".  The crown shaft is reddish-brown in color and has prominent striations as shown below.  Younger trunks are green with rings unless exposed to sun. 

The crown of this species is full and round with upright and arching leaves.  Leaf length is about eight feet, leaflet length is three feet and the leaves are flat in cross section.  Some would argue that this species is the prettiest of all Burretiokentia.  Culture is similar to the other Burretiokentia, but I'd give it more shade when young and let it "grow into the sun" rather than starting it in direct sunlight.  As with all New Caledonian species, ample water is crucial.  Under-watered plants do not do well.  Although limited, we do offer various sizes for sale.  I've shown not only nursery plants here but also some mature specimens.  We're putting the 15g on Special.  They are of nice size.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15GALLON $225

Remember:  Mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.


 
Burretiokentia vieillardii   Burretiokentia vieillardii   Burretiokentia vieillardii  
Burretiokentia vieillardii   Burretiokentia vieillardii    
Burretiokentia vieillardii   Burretiokentia vieillardii   Burretiokentia vieillardii  

 

LIVISTONA SARIBUS
LARGE, DARK & HOOKED SPINES

 


MEDIUM TO TALL FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

This medium to tall fan palm is native to southeast Asia.  It can get to heights of thirty-five feet or more.  It is an interesting palm that is easy to grow and has a very ornamental leaf with deep divisions of the segments.  Its leaf segments almost make a complete circle.  Leaf color is green.  The spines on the petioles tend to be dark in color and dramatic, usually the thing most people remember most about this species.  Another interesting thing is that the seed fruit is blue in color as shown below.  It is a sun species and cold hardy into the mid to low-twenties.  The 15g on sale are nicely sized.  Shipping is possible in a large box.  The last photo is by John Volk.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $195

Livistona saribus Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus 
Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus 
Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus john volk psst 
Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus  Livistona saribus john volk psst 

 

PRITCHARDIA MARTII
HAWAIIAN FAN PALM



MEDIUM SIZE - RUSTY UNDERSIDE TO LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This Hawaiian Fan Palm is native to the island of Oahu in HI and typically gets to a height of ten to fifteen feet in Southern CA but can attain heights to thirty feet in habitat.  It is a single trunk palm with a trunk diameter of about a foot.  Leaves are green and rather flat.  Their underside has a rusty brown or copper color secondary to tomentum hairs.  It tolerates full sun along the coast.  Far inland areas should give it limited sun.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-twenties F.  It is a somewhat difficult species to find.  The 5g we're putting on special are not overly large but nice.  These can be mail ordered, weather permitting.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE $115

Note;  Our 5g are larger presently than shown here.



Pritchardia martii Pritchardia martii Pritchardia martii
Pritchardia martii Pritchardia martii Pritchardia martii
Pritchardia martii Pritchardia martii Pritchardia martii

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX BEATRICAE
 A VARIETY OF A. ALEXANDRAE
SWOLLEN BASE OF TRUNK


STEP OFFS AT THE GROWTH RINGS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE

Archontophoenix Beatricae has always been a bit of a problem for taxonomists - whether it's truly a species or a variety.  Some feel it's a variety of A. alexandrae.  I won't get into that argument here.  But, the plants shown below came from seed from a A. beatricae.   Note the very swollen trunk base.  It flairs out.  It is also known to have notches or "step offs" at the growth rings.  I don't have a good photo close up of the latter.  These plants need to be repotted or go into the ground.  They can take coastal sun.  Cold hardiness is about 25 degrees F.  The 5g size singles are on sale but we may have a few multiples we'd offer at the same price.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $110

Remember:  mention this Special to get your discount when you purchase!
 
Archontophoenix beatricae Archontophoenix beatricae Archontophoenix beatricae
Archontophoenix beatricae Archontophoenix beatricea Archontophoenix beatricae

 

PRESTOEA MONTANA
AKA PRESTOEA ACUMINATA VAR. MONTANA

 

RARE PINNATE PALM FROM PUERTO RICO
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE

Prestoea is a genus that is very closely related to another palm genus, Euterpe.  It is found in the Caribbean, Central and South America.  Essentially all Euterpe are crown shafted palms.  Many of the Prestoea are not.  There are also distinctions between the flowers of these two genera.  Also, many of the Prestoea are suckering.  But, there is one that is single trunk.  This is Prestoea montana, native to mountainous areas of Puerto Rico.  I've always known of this species as not having a crown shaft.  But, I've seen photos (including ones from native habitats) where a crown shaft is seen.  

The hallmarks of this species are its wide and very shiny green leaves, its somewhat slender trunk and its overall beautiful appearance.  Plant heights can reach forty feet or more.  This species should be grown in part day sun or filtered light.  It likes rich soil and ample moisture.  I'd estimate its cold tolerance is down to about a freeze or a bit less.  It is not a species for a beginner to try.  We're putting the 5g plants on special.  Note that this species has historically been known as "Prestoea montana" but in more recent years has been considered a variety of P. acuminata.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110


PRESTOEA MONTANA PRESTOEA MONTANA PRESTOEA MONTANA
PRESTOEA MONTANA PRESTOEA MONTANA PRESTOEA MONTANA
Prestoea montana Prestoea montana Prestoea montana

 

HOWEA FORSTERIANA
THE KENTIA PALM



GREAT PATIO OR INTERIOR PALM - OR IN THE GARDEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SINGLES

Howea forsteriana, the popular Kentia Palm, is native to Lord Howe Island.  There it lives at lower elevations.  At higher elevations up the mountains one sees Howea belmoreana and Hedyscepe.  The Kentia does great here in So California.   It is a single trunk species that is often grown as a "multiple" with several plants in the same pot.  It does NOT sucker.  Along the coast it takes full sun or part day sun.  Far inland, filtered light is needed.   Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F.  Mature height in sun is usually about thirty feet in 30 years.  We’re putting very nice 5 gallon plants on special.  These plants are singles - not multiples.  These can be mail ordered.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110

 

Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana
Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana
Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana Howea forsteriana

 

PTYCHOSPERMA SALOMONENSE
QUICK GROWING, CROWN SHAFTED


SIMILAR TO PTYCHOSPERMA ELEGANS BUT FASTER GROWING
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This rare pinnate, crown shafted and thin trunked palm tree is from the Solomon Islands.  Most growers comment that this species is very similar appearing to Ptychosperma elegans .  It gets a height of up to thirty feet with a four inch thick trunk.  Leaves are about five feet long.  Leaf color is green.  The crown shaft is silver-green.  Compared to Ptychosperma elegans, this species is:

faster growing
taller
has wider leaflets
has larger leaves

It is a part day sun species and has a cold tolerance into the mid to upper twenties F.  Perhaps one could grow it in full sun right on the coast.  It is rarely available.  I'm offering nice 5 gallon sized plants on special for ten days.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $110

You must mention this Blog Only Special when ordering to get this discount.  These plants are a piece of cake to mail order.  Limited availability.  The specimen photo is by PalmPedia - Pete in AU.


 
PTYCHOSPERMA SALOMONENSE PTYCHOSPERMA SALOMONENSE PTYCHOSPERMA SALOMONENSE
PTYCHOSPERMA SALOMONENSE Ptychosperma solomonense Palmpedia by Pete PTYCHOSPERMA SALOMONENSE

 

HOWEA BELMOREANA
THE BELMORE SENTRY PALM / CURLY PALM

THE "OTHER TYPE OF KENTIA"
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS

This species of single trunk, "non-crown shafted" pinnate palm is native to medium elevations on Lord Howe Island.  At one time is was possible to import seeds of this desirable palm along with Hedyscepe and Lepidorrhachis.  Because of conservation laws, the island can no longer legally export seeds or seedlings.  This has created a shortage of the more rare species from this locality.

Howea belmoreana is different from the Howea forsteriana (classic Kentia Palm) as it has curved leaves and an umbrella-shaped crown.  It also might be a bit more cold hardy.  It prefers filtered light or a little sun inland and can take more sun right on the coast.  Cold tolerance is about 24 degrees F.  Growth rate, like the Kentia, is slow.  The bands shown on special here are well established and a piece of cake to ship within the U.S. 

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL $52.50


Remember:  Mention this special for your discount when you purchase.
 Easy to mail order.


Howea belmoreana Howea belmoreana Howea belmoreana
Howea belmoreana Howea belmoreana Howea belmoreana
Howea belmoreana Howea belmoreana Howea belmoreana

 

DYPSIS PEMBANA
SINGLE TRUNK OR SUCKERING
NATIVE TO PEMBA ISLAND

TAKES FULL COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SEEDLINGS

There are both single trunk and suckering forms of this species.  Nowadays, most of the plants available of this species are the suckering form.  Both get to a height of 25 feet, have an attractive green trunk and a light colored crown shaft.  Leaves have a graceful arch and the leaflet color is green.  It's a great alternative for the garden.  Note how the trunks are beefy but not overly large.  The plants on special are already suckering.  Along our coast it will take part day sun but I'd recommend filtered or morning sun inland.  The plants on special are in band size and are seedlings.  Easy to ship.  We may have larger plants available.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $52.50

Remember to mention this Blog Special at the time of purchase.  The garden specimen photos are c/o a late friend Al Bredeson.  I'm also showing a prior Nursery stock 25 gallon.



Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana
Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana
Dypsis pembana Al Bredeson Dypsis pembana Dypsis pembana

 

BRAHEA BRANDEGEEI
A TALL, QUICK GROWING BRAHEA



GREEN LEAVES, SORT OF WISPY

THIN TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

Rarely do I have this hard to find palm and even more rarely do I put it on special.  It's one of the hardest of the Braheas to locate.  It can reach heights of over 80 feet and is native to Baja California, Mexico.  Trunks are thin.  Crowns of leaves are open.  Leaf color is typically green as shown here.  One of the best places to see this species is in Balboa Park, San Diego, less than a half mile from where I live.  It wants full sun, tolerates wind and dry conditions and is a good growing species.  Despite its beauty, its a solid grower and a fine addition to any garden.  I’m offering band sized seedlings on sale - see first four photos.  The fifth & Sixth photo are of a 15g plant.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $47.50

It'd be  piece of cake to mail order.  BTW, the plants are about one leaf larger than shown here from these older photos.  Remember, mention this Special!


Brahea brandegeii Brahea bandegeei
Brahea bandegeei bRAHEA BRANDEGEI LEAF Brahea brandegeii
Brahea brandegeii Brahea brandegeii Brahea brandegeii

 

ENCEPHALARTOS TRANSVENOSUS
THE MODJADJI CYCAD
LARGE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD SPECIES


GREEN LEAVES - QUICK GROWING
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

Shown here below are 15 gallon sized plants of a larger green South African cycad that, in the ground, makes a magnificent specimen cycad.  Encephalartos transvenosus gets enormous with trunks over 20 feet tall.  It is native to the Modjadji Forest area of South Africa.  Leaves are six to eight feet long and leaflets are shiny, dark green with some glaucous faint hairs on the leaflets.  This is not a small cycad and needs plenty of room to grow and trunk out.  It makes a big show.  The plants on special below are in the 15 gallon size with caudexes of 4 to 5 inches – age 8 to 10 years.  They can be easily shipped within the U.S. but would require a large box.   See first four photos.  This size is shown in the first six photos below.  Following are photos of garden plants.  The eight photo shows cycads with about 15 feet of trunk.  Of course, this will take a century or two to achieve.  This is a full sun species along the coast with a cold tolerance is 22 degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON THIS SIZE $500
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $395

But, mention this special to get this price when purchasing. 


Encephalartos transvenosus 15g 4-5 inches Encephalartos transvenosus 15g 4-5 inches Encephalartos transvenosus 15g 4-5 inches
Encephalartos transvenosus 15g 4-5 inches Encephalartos transvenosus 15g 4-5 inches Encephalartos transvenosus 15g 4-5 inches
Encephalartos transvenosus Encephalartos transvenosus Encephalartos transvenosus

 

ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

UPRIGHT GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD SIZED 15G CYCAD

This rare cycad is native to Swaziland, northern South Africa.  It is known as one of the most attractive of all the green cycads. It does great in Southern California but is rare and hard to find.  New leaves tend to be upright.  Most pronounced is the "frost" appearance of leaves as shown below.  This is from small hairs on the leaflets.  Compared to other cycads leaflets are fairly thin – and they carry spines.  It makes a medium to large mature specimen.  Mature size can be over fifteen feet with 6 to 10 foot green leaves.  Along the coast it’ll take full sun.  Far inland I’d recommend limited sun.  Cold tolerance is down to the low 20’s F.  The plant on Special is in a 15g pot and has an 8 inch caudex and is shown in the first six photos below.  

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD $1280
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT $880

Below I'm showing photos of a large 25g specimen at the nursery - photo #7 below.  We have a few seedlings.


ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS 15G 8 INCHES ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS 15G 8 INCHES ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS 15G 8 INCHES
ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS 15G 8 INCHES ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS 15G 8 INCHES ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS 15G 8 INCHES
ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS Encephalartos paucidentatus

 

ENCEPHALARTOS ALTENSTEINII
LARGER GREEN CYCAD FROM SO AFRICA


FULL CROWN OF LEAVES - HUSKY TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS


This is a medium to large green cycad from the Eastern Cape region of the Republic of South Africa.  It was named after a Prussian statesman and is listed a a threatened cycad species.  Mature height after many decades can reach up to over sixteen feet.  Leaf length is six feet with trunk diameter of up to 18 to 24 inches.  Leaflets have spines, especially when young.  The base of the leaf stems are usually devoid of prickles or spines.  Leaf color is a shiny green.  Along the coast this species tolerates full sun or part day sun.  It easily withstands a freeze and has an absolute cold tolerance down to about 22 degrees F.  It can easily be grown on the patio if given adequate light.  Desert areas should consider only a few hours of direct desert sun.  It is best to give this species plenty of room in the garden.  It makes a spectacular specimen plant.  We are offering seedlings in the band size on special.  These are easy to ship within the U.S.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $55
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $45


Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii

 

CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIX X CYCAS DEBAOENSIS
CYCAD HYBRID OF TWO RARE SPECIES



NEVER AVAILABLE BEFORE
CAN'T EXACTLY PREDICT MATURE APPEARANCE
TEN DAY SPECIAL OVERSIZED ONE GALLON

We're offering on special a very rare hybrid of the genus Cycas.  Both parents are native to China.  The C. panzhiuaensis is known for it's medium size, blue-green foliage in sun and cold tolerance.  Cycas debaoensis is known for it's mutlipinnate leaves and fluffy leaf appearance.  I've only had these plants off and on for about a year.  There are no pictures of mature plants available.  It should make a small to medium sized adult plant and take at least part day with a cold hardiness into the low 20's F.  The plants on special are super large one ore one and a half gallons with about 2 inch thick caudexes.  They need to be repotted or planted.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 1 GALLON $145
DAY SPECIAL THESE PLANTS $120


Remember to mention this Blog Special when you purchase to get this price.  The first garden photo is the panzhihuaensis and the next is the debaoensis.


Cycas panshihuaensis x debaoensis 1.5 gallon 2 inches   Cycas panshihuaensis x debaoensis 1.5 gallon 2 inches   Cycas panshihuaensis x debaoensis 1.5 gallon 2 inches  
Cycas panshihuaensis x debaoensis 1.5 gallon 2 inches   Cycas panshihuaensis x debaoensis 1.5 gallon 2 inches   Cycas panshihuaensis x debaoensis 1.5 gallon 2 inches  
CYCAS PANZHHIHUAENSIS  cYCAS DEBAOENSIS  cYCAS DEBAOENSIS 

 

BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS
INTERESTING THICK TRUNK TROPICAL TREE

 

SNAKESKIN TEXTURED TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL TALL 25 GALLON TREE


About four decades ago I visited Seaborne Nursery up in the Lake Hodges area of San Diego County.  It has long since vanished as a nursery.  A fellow who ran this nursery, Bill Seaborne (now deceased) convinced me to try a few of this interesting species.  I planted them and within about five to ten years found they have the most peculiar, large and swollen trunks.  The leaflets are quite fine; but the trunk is massive.  It has a green snake skin type of texture and is a fast growing tree.   The plant I’m showing here is a 25 gallon we’ve been growing for years.  It’s about 15 feet tall and begging for a home.  I am also showing you pictures of mature trees in Australia, the native home of this species.  This species is not known for flowers, but rather for it's peculiar swollen trunk.  It can get to fifty feet tall, likes sun, and has a cold tolerance that is probably into the low 20's F.  It's quite tall - maybe ever too tall to easily transport in a pickup.   Garden photos by australiagarden website and anbg.gov.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS TREE $400



BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS
BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS
BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS Brachychiton rupestris from australiagarden website Brachychiton rupestris by anbg.gov

 

PHLEBODIUM SPECIES
FURRY RHIZOMES THAT CRAWL


NORMALLY AN EPIPHYTIC PLANT IN THE WILD
TOLERATE COASTAL SUN OR FILTERED LIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 10 GALLON SIZE

Phlebodium is a small genus of epiphytic ferns that are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas.  They, in the wild, live in trees.  But, they can be grown in the ground or in containers.  Most tolerate near total full sun along the coast and also filtered light.  On the species we’re dealing with here, it gets to heights of about two to three feet and is rhizomatous in nature.  Furry small feet crawl the ground and every foot or so launch an upright green leaf.  It is not a difficult plant to contain in the garden.  It easily tolerates temperatures into the mid-twenties F.  Leaf color is green with a hint of blue, but not as prominent as the Blue Star Fern.  It can be used as a ground cover.

REGULAR PRICE 10 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $95


Phlebodium species Phlebodium species Phlebodium species
Phlebodium species Phlebodium species Phlebodium species
Phlebodium species  

  

NEOROGELIA PINK FIREBALL
MAKES CLUSTER WITH VARIEGATED LEAVES



PINK FLUSH CENTRALLY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 6 - 8 INCH POT CLUSTERS


This variety of Bromeliad has become quite sought after lately.  For years we've carried the red Fireballs.  This one has variegated leaves (longitudinally) that are green with white edges.  Also, over time, it develops a pink flush on the leaves, especially centrally.  These clusters have three to five plants.  They want strong filtered light or a few hours of morning or late day sun.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE CLUSTER $45

Neorogelia pink fireballs Neorogelia pink fireballs Neorogelia pink fireballs
Neorogelia pink fireball Neorogelia pink fireball Neorogelia pink fireball

    

CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA
THE HAWAIIAN TI PLANT


GREAT COLORFUL COMPANION PLANT – MANY TAKE SUN
AVAILABILITY CHANGES WEEKLY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 3 AND 7/15G SIZES

Cordylline fruiticosa, the "Ti Plant", are vibrantly colorful plants that are single stem, don't sucker (but can branch), tend to be under six to eight feet tall mature and have a compact crown of wide leaflets.  They are often grown in small colonies of two to five individual plants per pot.  This gives a fuller appearance and a lot more color.  Along the coast, the red, orange and purple solid color forms usually tolerate full or near full coastal sun.  On the other hand, varieties with multicolored leaves - especially with pastel colors - like a bit of sun or strong filtered light.  I feel that the color is even better after a year or two in sun.  They'll go through transitional stress but almost always come around and look great. 

At any given time, we usually have six to eight different types of Ti's.  They take average watering and are cold hardy to a bit below a freeze.  Sever cold will kill them. Below are photos of Cordylines being used in an assortment of landscape applications.  Be aware, these sell out very quickly so availability on some species changes. 

Below you will see types we often have in stoack and at sale prices for ten days.


CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA CHILE PEPPER

See Above.
Pinkish-red thin leaflets.  Tolerate coastal full or part day sun.  Far inland areas filtered light.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 3 GALLON SIZE $49.50

Cordyline fruiticosa chile pepper Cordyline fruiticosa chile pepper Cordyline fruiticosa chile pepper
Cordyline fruiticosa chile pepper Cordyline fruiticosa chile pepper Cordyline fruiticosa chile pepper

 

CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA HARLEQUIN

See above.
This variety has a mixture of light and dark green, yellows-green and pink splotches throughout.  They prefer filtered light in most areas or a bit of sun.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 3 GALLON SIZE $49.50

 
Cordyline fruiticosa harlequin Cordyline fruiticosa harlequin Cordyline fruiticosa harlequin
Cordyline fruiticosa harlequin Cordyline fruiticosa harlequin Cordyline fruiticosa harlequin

 

CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA PINK CASCADE

See above
This variety is new to us.  It has green leaves of different tones with longitudinal stripes of lime color.  Although I can't be sure, I'd recommend filtered light or a bit of sun.  They haven't shown any pink color yet.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 3 GALLON SIZE $49.50


Cordyline fruiticosa pink cascade Cordyline fruiticosa pink cascade Cordyline fruiticosa pink cascade
Cordyline fruiticosa pink cascade Cordyline fruiticosa pink cascade Cordyline fruiticosa pink cascade

 

CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA FLORICA

These are the larger size of a dark red variety.  Leaves are super colorful, especially in sun, and can show a bit of green.  They can tolerate full or part day sun in most coastal areas. The plants below are in 7 gallon containers and about five feet or more in their pots. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE LARGER 7 & 15 GALLON $175

Cordyline fruiticosa florica 7 gallon Cordyline fruiticosa florica 7 gallon Cordyline fruiticosa florica 7 gallon
Cordyline fruiticosa florica 7 gallon Cordyline fruiticosa florica 7 gallon Cordyline fruiticosa florica 7 gallon

 

MONDAY, 3 OCTOBER, 2022 

HYOPHORBE VERSCHAFELTII
THE SPINDLE PALM


MEDIUM MATURE HEIGHT
CIGAR SHAPED TRUNK
SUPER OLD TREES

Most of us know what the Spindle Palm, Hyophorbe verschafeltii, looks like.  But, I thought I'd show you pictures of plants that are at least fifty years old.  I've been following these particular trees individually for over thirty years and they were large when I first met them.   So, here's the "Senior citizens" of Spindle Palms.  The fourth photo shows the classic bulge in the mid-trunk.  But, on some trees you'll notice this is less apparent - almost as if the central bulge aborts.  I can't comment too much on this other than to say that this seems true on occasions and the bulge is less apparent.  I wish I had sequential, over the decades, photos of individual trees.  

Many are growing this sun-loving species here in Southern California and the tallest ones I know of are ten to twelve feet tall.  References say twenty feet is maximum and certainly some of these trees are pushing that height.  Cold hardiness is down to about a freeze.  At the nursery we have seedlings, 5g and 15g sizes for sale. 

Hyophorbe verschafeltii Hyophorbe verschafeltii Hyophorbe verschafeltii
Hyophorbe verschafeltii Hyophorbe verschafeltii
Hyophorbe verschafeltii Hyophorbe verschafeltii Hyophorbe verschafeltii
Hyophorbe verschafeltii
Colony of mature trees this species
Hyophorbe verschafeltii
5 gallon size
Hyophorbe verschafeltii
15 g size at nursery

 

SYAGRUS OLERACEA
THE "SKINNY QUEEN PALM"



PLUMOSE GREEN LEAVES
MOST PREFER IT TO THE COMMON QUEEN PALM
NICE 5 GALLON PLANTS AVAILABLE

This single trunk species is from Brazil and is fairly tall, easily over 30 feet.  Habitat specimens are up to 60 feet, similar to the common Queen Palm.  But, this species has a super narrow trunk as shown here.  It is light colored and has rings.  Leaves are plumose and arch.  It is a sun species with cold hardiness into the mid-twenties F.  There are quite a few nice specimens in the Southern CA area.  Shown here are large 5g plants.  We have only limited supplies available.  You can see from its appearance why so many people prefer it to the common Queen Palm.

Syagrus oleracea Syagrus oleracea Syagrus oleracea
Syagrus oleracea Syagrus oleracea Syagrus oleracea
Syagrus oleracea Syagrus oleracea Syagrus oleracea by RPS
Photo by TS at RPS


WODYETIA BIFURCATA
THE FOXTAIL PALM

 

THIN TRUNK, FLUFFY GREEN LEAVES
MEDIUM SIZED
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON MULTIPLES

The Foxtail Palm, Wodyetia bifuracata, is native to Queensland, Australia and is a single trunk palm.  It gets to about twenty-five feet height, has fluffy green plumose leaves, is crown shafted as shown below and is single trunk.  It has a thin trunk, usually mature about six to eight inches.  It is a great species for more inland areas that see a fair amount of heat.  It does love heat and sun.  Although some like to plant this species in colonies of two or three plants, it looks great as a stand-alone single palm. Because it wants sun, it should not be put in a shady area.  Cold hardiness is about 23 to 25 degrees F.  I am putting 15 gallon plants on sell.  Each pot has several plants so it’ll give a multiple effect like you often see with King Palms. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON MULTIPLES $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON MULTIPLES $200

Remember:  Mention this Blog Special when you purchase.


 

WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA
WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA
WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA

 

CYPHOPHOENIX NUCELE
RARE & ELEGANT NEW CALEDONIAN PALM



THIN TRUNK AND UPRIGHT LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

Shown here is a gorgeous example of one of the more beautiful of the New Caledonian palms.  Cyphophoenix nucele is from Lifou Island, gets to a height of twenty-five to thirty feet and takes strong filtered light or part day sun in most coastal areas.  It has a thin trunk with lots of silver color.  Leaves tend to but upright as opposed to C. elegans where the leaves are more arched.  The last three pictures are from the late Mardi Darian's garden in Vista, CA.  You'll notice how healthy it looks in strong filtered light.  The nursery plant on sale is a 15g but we also have 5g plants.  I'd estimate the cold tolerance into the mid to upper twenties F.  Very limited numbers are available.  This plant can be shipped or delivered if needed.  It was grown from seed and is about eight years old.  Very limited numbers available. 

REGULAR PRICE 15G $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $245

Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele
Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele
Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele

 

CHAMAEDOREA GLAUCIFOLIA
SUPER SIMILAR TO C. PLUMOSA


TAKES A FAIR AMOUNT OF SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

From time to time I discuss this interesting single trunk Chamaedorea.  It is very similar to Chamaedorea plumosa - except:  The plumosa has a more plumose leaf and takes a little more sun.  But, the glaucifolia has the silver powder on the leaf stems and crown shaft as shown here.  This is quite attractive and typically very prominent.  Otherwise, you would mistake the two.  They are fast growing and get to a mature height of about 14 feet.  They look their best when planted in colonies of three to five plants.  It takes almost full sun on the coast and is a durable species and seem exempt from fungal problems that can plague C. plumosa.  Cold hardiness is about 25 degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $200

Mention this Special for your discount when you purchase.


Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia
Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia
Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia

 

CHAMAEDOREA MICROSPADIX
A SEMI-DWARF TYPE OF BAMBOO PALM

 
GET UP TO ABOUT 8 FEET - SUCKERING SPECIES
COLD HARDY INTO THE UPPER TEENS F.
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This type of Bamboo Palm is known for several things.  First, it is one of the shorter true suckering and pinnate types of Chamaedorea.  It gets to a mature height of about 8 feet.  It is a great patio plant or can be grown inside quite easily.  It is also one of the more cold hardy types of Chamaedorea, only being beat out by C. radicalis.  It'll go down to about 20 degrees F. or a bit lower.  Leaf color is green and sometimes there are hints of blue, a blue iridescence or even blue leaflet backs on this species.  Fruits are numerous and red in color.  Trunks are very thin.  I'd recommend filtered light for this species although some have grown in in coastal sun.  Of note, it's one of the more cold hardy Bamboo Palms around.  The 15 gallon size are fruiting size and on sale.    

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON SIZE $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $210

But, you must mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase to get your discount. 

Chamaedorea microspadix Chamaedorea microspadix Chamaedorea microspadix
Chamaedorea microspadix Chamaedorea microspadix Chamaedorea microspadix
Chamaedorea microspadix Chamaedorea microspadix Chamaedorea microspadix

 

BUTIA CAPITATA BLUE
EASY TO GROW, NOT TOO TALL
SUPER BLUE COLOR  - COLD HARDY


TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

For about a decade we've been offering this very desirable and sought after variety of Butia that has a nice blue color.  Otherwise, it's quite similar to the regular gray-green Pindo Palm.  The problem is we always run out of them.  To satisfy our customer demand, we recently got in some more of the 15g size.  But, there are very limited numbers.  We are offering them at one of the best prices we've ever offered.  This palm loves full hot sun and can take down to 15 degrees F.  So, almost all of you can grow this palm.  The row of three palms in the last row are being grown in San Diego, CA, about a half mile from the Bay.  These are cold hardy to about 15 degrees and demand full, hot sun.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $165

Just remember:  Mention this Blog Special for your discount.  We can easily mail order this size. 


Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue
Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue
Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue Butia capitata blue

 

LIVISTONA SARIBUS
LARGE, DARK & HOOKED SPINES


MEDIUM TO TALL FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE

This medium to tall fan palm is native to southeast Asia.  It can get to heights of thirty-five feet or more.  It is an interesting palm that is easy to grow and has a very ornamental leaf with deep divisions of the segments.  Its segment almost make a complete circle.  Leaf color is green.  The spines on the petioles tend to be dark in color and dramatic, usually the thing most people remember most about this species.  It is a sun species and cold hardy into the mid-twenties at least.  The 15g size on sale are very large size.  One photo below shows the remarkable blue color to the seeds.  We also have available other sizes.  The sixth photo is by John Volk.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $110


Just mention this Blog Special for this price when you purchase.  Please note the prominent spines on the leaf stems.

Livistona saribus Livistona saribus Livistona saribus
Livistona saribus Livistona saribus Livistona saribus by John Volk PSST
Livistona saribus Livistona saribus Livistona saribus

 

DYPSIS HETEROMORPHA
HIGHLAND SUGAR CANE PALM
MEDIUM SIZED SUCKERING PALM FROM MADAGASCAR



TRISTICHOUS ARRANGEMENT OF THE LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON PLANTS

This relatively recent introduction to the palm market is from Madagascar.  It is a suckering palm that gets to a height of about twelve feet with 4 inch thick trunks.  Leaves are green, keeled and recurved at their ends.  The proximal leaf stems and the crown shaft are covered with red colored hairs.  Leaflets are thin and prominently veined.  It is a sun palm along the coast and has a cold hardiness below a freeze, probably into the upper twenties F.  Most enthusiasts have found this palm to be a good grower.  The garden specimen below is from the garden of Matt Bradford, La Mesa, CA.  All photos by him.  The 5 gallon plants were repotted from 1g into 5g well over a year ago.


REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $100


 
Dypsis heteromorpha Dypsis heteromorpha Dypsis heteromorpha
Dypsis heteromorpha Dypsis heteromorpha Dypsis heteromorpha
Dypsis_heteromorpha_fine_leaf_form_Matt bradford Dypsis_heteromorpha_fine_leaf_form_Matt bradford Dypsis_heteromorpha_fine_leaf_form_Matt bradford

 

DYPSIS SAINTELUCEI
SINGLE TRUNK - WHITE CROWN SHAFT
NATIVE TO MADAGASCAR


HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 5 GALLON SIZED PLANTS

This single trunk palm in native to forest regions in southern Madagascar.  It is known for its powdery white crown shaft.  Mature it is a medium sized palm with a rather thin trunk and height of about twenty feet.  It is being grown well in Southern California.  I’ve heard from some that it's one of the better Dypsis to grow here.  Leaves are arranged in a tristichous pattern and are plumose (fluffy).  It tolerates sun or part sun.  The exact cold hardiness is not well established but probably about 25 degrees F.  The 5 gallon on sale below are on sale for ten days.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110

You must mention this Internet-only special when purchasing to get this price.  Limited supplies available.  The last two photos are c/o John Dransfield, Kew & s and Jeff White, AU


Dypsis saintelucei 5g Dypsis saintelucei 5g Dypsis saintelucei 5g
Dypsis saintelucei 5g Dypsis saintelucei 5g Dypsis saintelucei 5g
Dypsis saintelucei Dypsis saintelucei John Dransfield Kew Dypsis saintelucei Jeff White PACSOA

 

CHAMAEDOREA KLOTZSCHIANA
SINGLE TRUNK MEXICAN CHAMAEDOREA



THIN TRUNKED, GROUPED LEAFLETS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON MULTIPLES


This single trunk, shade loving palm is from the Veracruz area of Mexico and named after a German botanist,  Johann Klotzsch.  The plant shown here has reached its mature height of twelve feet.  It has a prominently ringed but narrow green trunk.  The most remarkable characteristic of this species is the grouping of leaflets along the rachis.  These groups are irregularly spaced.  Also note how they leaflets are held at different angles from the rachis.  Leaflets are a dark green, small  to medium in length, wide and a bit puffy.  It's this grouping of leaflets that allows you to ID this species.  Another surprising this is how hard it is to find this species.  When I started my nursery 42 years ago, I had lots of these and seeds were available.  Nowadays you can't find seeds to save your soul.  This is a shade loving species and cold hardy into the mid-twenties F.  At best perhaps it'd take down to about 25 degrees.
  These plants should probably work fine as a house plant and are shippable in a good sized box.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON MULTIPLES $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON MULTIPLES $110


Chamaedorea klotzschiana Chamaedorea klotzschiana Chamaedorea klotzschiana
Chamaedorea klotzschiana Chamaedorea klotzschiana Chamaedorea klotzschiana
Chamaedorea klotzschiana Chamaedorea klotzschiana Chamaedorea klotzschiana

 

PHOENIX ROEBELENII
THE PYGMY DATE PALM


LOCALLY GROWN AND STURDY PALM

SALE ON TRIPLE PLANTS IN 5 GALLON SIZE

Most people are familiar with this species, the Pygmy Date Palm.  It is naturally a single trunks species.  But, they are usually sold as "triples" - three individual plants in the same pot - so often, that people think it's a suckering species.  And, 99% of plants are sold as a "multiples".  Over a few decades, this species can get to a height of over ten feet.  They are slow growing.  Triples grow slower than singles.  This species is a type of Date Palm, so it does have spines on its stems.  Growth rate is medium to slow.  It likes full sun and is cold hardy to about 22 degrees F.  Of note, it is one of the least cold hardy of all the Date Palms.  Shown here are some shippable 5 gallon which we’re putting on Special.  These are locally grown and much hardier and stronger than imported plants like you see at the depot stores.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $65

Remember to mention this Special at the time of purchase to get this discounted price.

Phoenix roebelenii Phoenix roebelenii Phoenix roebelenii
Phoenix roebelenii Phoenix roebelenii Phoenix roebelenii
Pygmy Date Triple Pygmy Date Palm Phoenix roebelenii

 

BRAHEA ELEGANS
THE FRANCESHCI PALM


MEDIUM SIZE FAN PALM
FROM SONORA, MEXICO
LOVES HEAT AND SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL SIZE

Native to Mexico, this medium sized fan palm gets to a height typically of twenty to twenty-five feet, has a rather narrow trunk for a Brahea and a smaller crown of green fan shaped leaves.  It is a medium rate growing palm that tolerates full sun. Exact cold tolerance is not known but felt to be into the low 20's F.  It could be lower but is not documented.  The five gallon plants on sale are at least 5 years old and very nice.  These are easy to mail order.

 
REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110

Brahea elegans Brahea elegans Brahea elegans
Brahea elegans Brahea elegans Brahea elegans
Brahea elegans Brahea elegans  

 

BRAHEA EDULIS
THE GUADALUPE FAN PALM

 

SHORTER GREEN, SINGLE TRUNK SUN FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE

This is not what I'd call a super rare species of palm, but for some reason they are near impossible to find.  We have a limited number of nice various sizes for sale.  Brahea edulis is a slow growing, shorter fan palm that is native to an island just off the coast of Mexico south of San Diego, CA.  It is found natively nowhere else.  The trunk is medium sized and mature trees obtain a maximum height of under fifteen feet.  The colony of plants shown here are located near Mission Bay Park in San Diego.  I'd estimate they are about forty years old.  This species likes full sun, can tolerate desert conditions and is cold hardy to the mid-teens F.  They are also reasonably drought tolerant.  Like other Brahea, large specimens are very difficult to successfully transplant.  On special are one gallon plants we’ve grown from local seed.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $55

Easy to mail order.  We may have other sizes available.


Brahea edulis Brahea edulis Brahea edulis
Brahea edulis Brahea edulis Brahea edulis
Brahea edulis Brahea edulis Brahea edulis

 

ENCEPHALARTOS LEBOMBOENSIS
MEDIUM SIZED SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 

GREEN LEAVES – FAIRLY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GALLON SIZE

Encephalartos lebomboensis is native to the Lebombo Mountains in South Africa.  It is most closely related to Encephalartos senticosus.  Leaves are green, typically three to five feet long and have thin, heavily spined leaflets.  But, overall, this is not a large cycad species.  In fact, it is relatively compact for an Encephalartos.  In a lifetime most would see a mature tree that has perhaps six feet of trunk.  There are many century old plants in the wild with fifteen to twenty feet of trunk.  Overall, the crown width is about six feet.  This species wants full sun along the coast and has a cold tolerance to the low 20's F.  It is not hard to grow.  The plants shown are in 2 gallon pots with a caudex of 2 inches

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE, THIS SPECIES $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON $115


Encephalartos lebomboensis Encephalartos lebomboensis 2g
Encephalartos lebomboensis 2g Encephalartos lebomboensis 2g Encephalartos lebomboensis 2g
Encephalartos lebomboensis 2g Encephalartos lebomboensis 2g Encephalartos lebomboensis 2g

 

ZAMIA FURFURACEA
THE CARDBOARD CYCAD
COMPACT GREEN DWARF CYCAD WITH NO SPINES


TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 5G PLANTS

This popular dwarf cycad is from Mexico and rarely gets over four feet tall.  Plants do cluster and form low profile clumps.  Stems can get typically to about 12 inches although taller stems are seen in the wild.  Leaves are almost always under 36 inches long with a plant height rarely over about five feet.  Leaflets are wide, short and have no spines or armor.  This is a very user-friendly plant.  It tolerates full sun along the coast and needs filtered light in the desert.  Cold hardiness is into the low 20's F, perhaps a bit lower.  

We're offering here 5 gallon plants on Special.  They have caudexes of 3 to 4 inches.  They are nice plants for starting in the garden.  We do have larger plants that are not on sale right now.  These 5g size can easily be shipped right in their pots.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 5G PLANTS $185
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 G THIS SIZE $165

You must mention this Blog only special when purchasing to get this price.

Zamia furfuracea Zamia furfuracea Zamia furfuracea
Zamia furfuracea Zamia furfuracea Zamia furfuracea
Zamia furfuracea Zamia furfuracea Zamia furfuracea

 

ENCEPHALARTOS ITURIENSIS
SUPER RARE CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD


LONG UPRIGHT GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL TALL 15 GALLON PLANT

This species is native to the Ituri Forest in the Congo in Central Africa.  It is extremely rare to see it offered for sale.  This cycad would not be as cold hardy as plants further south in South Africa.  But, it should take weather into the mid-twenties F.  E. ituriensis is known for its long, upright leaves reaching well over twelve to fourteen feet tall.  It towers over E. whitelockii in terms of length.  Leaflets are armed and narrow.  The plants on special are four years old and carrying about four leaves.  They are four to five years old.  If you search the Net for photos of this species, they are essentially nonexistent.  This is because of political instability of the area, remote native location and the risk of Ebola infection.  Certainly, this has hampered availability of this species worldwide. 

The photos below show a 15 gallon plant with long leaves and an 8 inch caudex.  It is shown in the first seven photos below.  We are putting this actual plant on sale.  Remember, it’s very difficult to find this species, especially with size.  We may have a few smaller plants in stock. 

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL PLANT $1600
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT $1295

Presently I only have one nice 15 gallon specimen.  The last photo shows a plant we sold about a decade ago that was much larger with longer leaves.  Unfortunately, this sale plant has too long of leaves to ship without pruning down the leaves.  The 8th photo is c/o Wikipedia Commons.


Encephalartos ituriensis Encephalartos ituriensis Encephalartos ituriensis
Encephalartos ituriensis Encephalartos ituriensis Encephalartos ituriensis
Encephalartos ituriensis Encephalartos_ituriensis Wikipedia commons website Encephalartos_ituriensis

 

ENCEPHALARTOS DYERIANUS
VERY RARE BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

SUN LOVING - MEDIUM SIZED
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE CITRUS POT SIZE

 

This desirable and extremely rare species is from the northern Transvaal area in the Republic of South Africa.  It is a medium sized blue cycad that can get trunks up to fifteen feet tall.  Leaves are blue or silver, straight, keeled with leaflets that are spiny and not overlapping.  This is one of the larger Transvaal species.  Encephalartos dyerianus tends to be a solitary stemmed species, though it can produce basal suckers infrequently.  It is a moderate grower, but flushes regularly and bear a full crown of leaves.  The petioles and leaflets are armed with sharp spines.  The crown of leaves on the species tend to be semi-erect, but can lay down as the crowns become more full (especially on larger specimens).  The female cones on this species are a bluish green, where the male cones are a bluish yellow. 

In coastal and inland areas, this species prefers to be in full sun, but can tolerate some shade.  For desert areas, this species should be placed in partial sun or filtered light.  This plant does need a soil that drains well, and does not do well with excessive moisture.  Because of rarity, this species is very difficult to find for sale.  The plants on special are form domestic size and three years old.  They are in citrus pot or 5 gallon pots, about four years old and holding about four leaves with a caudex of about 1.5 inches.

 

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE YOUNG BUT STRONG CITRUS POTS $429

 


ENCEPHALARTOS DYERIANUS ENCEPHALARTOS DYERIANUS ENCEPHALARTOS DYERIANUS
ENCEPHALARTOS DYERIANUS ENCEPHALARTOS DYERIANUS  
Encephalartos dyerianus Encephalartos dyerianus Encephalartos dyerianus

 

BIRDS NEST ANTHURIUM
ANTHURIUM HOOKERI

THE PERFECT COMPANION PLANT


NEVER OVER ABOUT SIX FEET TALL
LEATHERY, DARK GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 5 GALLON PLANTS


Enthusiast are always looking for attractive companion plants that don't get too big.  Shown here is what's called the "Birds Nest" Anthurium.  Most of these plants are felt to either be the species Anthurium hookeri or a hybrid of it.  They are good for filtered light situations and rarely get over six feet tall.  The leaves are long, wide and very thick to the touch.  Their leaf surface is wavy.  We’re offering our 5 gallon size on a Ten Day Special.  This is the size most people buy.  Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F.  Flowers are red, as are the tiny seeds.   These plants are real winners. These can be mail ordered.

REGULAR PRICE 5G THIS SPECIES $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $75

Remember:  Mention this Blog Only Special to get this price when you buy!  The last photo is c/o Wikipedia.


ANTHURIUM HOOKERI ANTHURIUM HOOKERI ANTHURIUM HOOKERI
BIRDS NEST ANTHURIUM  BIRDS NEST ANTHURIUM  ANTHURIUM HOOKERI
ANTHURIUM HOOKER  ANTHURIUM HOOKER  ANTHURIUM HOOKER WIKIPEDIA 

 

PHILODENDRON X EVANSII
HUGE HEART-SHAPED LEAVES
NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND FOR SALE



FAIRLY COLD HARDY - MAKES A GARDEN HIGHLIGHT!
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 7 GALLON PLANTS


This rare and difficult to find hybrid Philodendron hasn't been available for several decades.  It was replaced by the less expensive Philodendron Selloum variety.  But, the P. evansii is huge compared to the selloum.  The P. evansii is a hybrid of uncertain parentage.  There are few in domestic gardens but, interestingly enough, may have been developed by a horticulturist in the 1950's who worked at Disneyland in Orange County, CA.  Some say the parentage is Philodendron speciosum x Philodendron bipinnatifidum. 

This hybrid produces huge leaves that are ruffled, heart shaped (elephant ear type of leaves) and can get five feet long and three feet wide.  They can deal with strong filtered light and in mild locations with almost full sun.  Cold hardiness is down to about 30 degrees.  Plant height is typically six to twelve feet.  We only have a couple of these plants.  If you really want one of these, act quickly because they'll be gone in no time.  And, they are never inexpensive to purchase.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS RARE SPECIES 7 GALLON $285

The garden photos below are by (in order) University of South Florida, garden ubc Website and Pinterest,   Note: We have only several of the 7 gallon size.  15 gallon are more expensive. No 5g available. 


Philodendron evansii Philodendron evansii Philodendron evansii
Philodendron evansii Philodendron evansii Philodendron evansii
Philodendron evansii Univ. of So FL  Philodendron evansii ubc website  Philodendron evansii Pinterest 

 

REX BEGONIA - FIREWOMAN
UNUSUAL MULTI-COLORED LEAVES


NICE COMPANION PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON SIZE

Begonia are a very large class of plants, sometimes used in the garden and patio but also as houseplants.  There are about 1500 different species or hybrids.  This particular variety – Rex Begonia Firewoman - is different and very colorful.  Leaves show prominent pink/red color with silver and purple bands.  But they are not the easiest Begonia to grow.  Leaves have a crinkled texture.  They like filtered light with soil that is slightly damp but not soggy.  It’s usually said that this species is for zones 10 and 11.  We’ve found they can go down to almost a freeze.  These plants have will have smaller pink blossoms in summer. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $27.50

Mention this Special for your discount


REX BEGONIA REX BEGONIA REX BEGONIA
REX BEGONIA REX BEGONIA REX BEGONIA

 

VARIEGATED NEOROGELIA SPECIES
CLUSTERS WITH WHITE LONGITUDINAL STRIPES


GETS FLUSH OF PINK IN SOME SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G CLUSTERS


This attractive yet not overly large Bromeliad is quite pretty and a good grower.  It'll take some sun but probably not full sun.  In the sun it'll develop a pink flush centrally.  Heads are small with green leaves that have long white margins.  Each cluster has three to four heads (plants).  It tolerates a freeze.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G CLUSTERS $65  


Variegated Neorogelia species 5g   Variegated Neorogelia species 5g   Variegated Neorogelia species 5g  
Variegated Neorogelia species 5g   Variegated Neorogelia species 5g   Variegated Neorogelia species 5g  

 

ALOCASIA WENTII
SEMI-DWARF TROPICAL ELEPHANT EAR PLANT

 

PURPLE UNDERSIDE TO LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 7 GALLON PLANTS


This is a species of Elephant Ear Alocasia.  Some feel it comes from the island of New Guinea but others feel that it is a hybrid of unknown origin.  The reason I mention it is because it is known to be quite cold hardy, perhaps even adaptable to growing zone 7B.  It is a small plant, typically under 3 feet.  The leaves are smaller than many other Elephant Ear Plants. The dorsal side of the leaves are green (sometimes black-green) while the underside is purple-black.  It prefers to stay dry in the winter when cold and likes filtered light.  It is a nice companion plant for any garden.  Cold tolerance is easily into the upper twenties F.  Shown below are 7 gallon plants that are on Special.

REGULAR PRICE 7 GALLON THIS SPECIES $150
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $135

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase. 


 
ALOCASIA WENTII  ALOCASIA WENTII  ALOCASIA WENTII 
ALOCASIA WENTII  ALOCASIA WENTII  ALOCASIA WENTII 
ALOCASIA WENTII  ALOCASIA WENTII  ALOCASIA WENTII 

 

END OF OLDER POSTS FOR  OCTOBER, 2022
BUT THERE'S EARLIER POSTS FROM SEPTEMBER,  - CLICK BELOW

TO SEE EARLIER POSTS FROM SEPTEMBER, CLICK HERE
TO SEE EARLIER POSTS FROM AUGUST, CLICK HERE

Links to even older archived posts at end of this page  

 

RECYCLE USED PLASTIC CONTAINERS
AND OLD NEWSPAPERS AND BOXES


ECOLOGICAL AND HELPS OUR NURSERY
YOU'LL RECEIVE A DISCOUNT ON YOUR PURCHASE OR A CREDIT TOWARD FUTURE PURCHASE

I like to remind plant enthusiasts to recycle their plastic containers.  We will take them and give you a credit toward any purchase at the nursery - when you drop them off or issue a credit toward a future purchase.  Or, if you just don't know what to do with them and are conservative minded, drop them off at our nursery location.  If you arrive off hours, just leave them in front of our entry gate.  We'll put them to good use.  We've been doing this for decades and think it's the right thing to do for the environment.  On containers, we are especially looking for larger pots, 5g and bigger.  Our nursery is plush with one gallon or smaller.  We also really appreciate 5 gallon, 7 gallon, 15 gallon and citrus pots. 

We are also recycling old cardboard boxes (Amazon types or otherwise) and newspapers.

So, don't give them to the garbage man for your local landfill.  Bring containers to our nursery and receive a nursery credit for plastic/ceramic containers.  The fourth photo shows all containers from a band to a 24 inch box, left to right.


5 GALLON
5 gallon
15 GALLON
15 gallon
25 GALLON
25 gallon
All containers in a row
All containers in a row
   

 

Gift Certificate

GIFT CERTIFICATE


CLICK TO READ ABOUT

  

ALSO - RECYCLE OLD NEWSPAPER -We can use it!

We utilize old newspaper to stuff our plants before we put them in vehicles.  Newspapers also help us secure mail orders.  And, we're always running out and don't like using new paper for this purpose - wasteful.  So, we'd recycle those old newspapers that you have on hand.  Just drop them off at the nursery any day Monday through Saturday.  Thank you.

Newspaper

 

NEW WEBSITE FEATURE!  SEE ALL OUR TOPICAL PLANTS
AT ONCE - ONE PAGE

Tropical Plant Availability Banner

 

DESCRIPTION , PHOTOS, AVAILABILITY and REGULAR PRICES

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT TROPICAL PLANTS!
GET A FEW IDEAS FROM PHOTOS BELOW

 

A LOOK AT THE NURSERY
QUICK PHOTO TOUR


Recently, on a drizzling day, sort of gray and gloomy, the following photos were taken by Alma, one of the staff.  These pictures show the unique combination of palms, cycads and succulents that we're offering.  You can see how nicely they all blend together.  We're showing these photos so you get a feel for our Nursery.

 
Front of Jungle Music Front of Jungle Music
Front of Jungle Music PLANTS AT NURSERY Front of Jungle Music
Front of Jungle Music nursery shadecloth Front of Jungle Music
Front of Jungle Music Front of Jungle Music Front of Jungle Music
Front of Jungle Music Front of Jungle Music nursery shadecloth
FRONT JUNGLE MUSIC ENTRANCE TO GREENHOUSE JUNGLE MUSIC

 

GREAT PALM TREES FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Below are pictures of about thirty five palm species that all do well in Southern California.  In the group of palms below,  I left off the most common species that, it seems, everyone knows about.  So, there are no Queen Palms and Mexican Fan Palms below.  But, this group includes species that may be a bit unusual and more interesting.  This is not a complete list.  For instance, within any given genus, there may be dozens other species that do well here.  If I showed every species that you can grow, it would be too overwhelming.  So, I've kept it simple and show representative pictures.  I think, for a starting point, this will suffice.   

I have chosen to show mature plants in gardens.  I tried to use mostly pictures from gardens in Southern California to show examples.  Some are from elsewhere.  This provides a quick view of species that you may want to try.  Some are for sun, others for shade.  Some are more difficult to grow than others.  I'm not commenting on each species presently.  But, throughout my Blog, there are comments on almost all of these.  If you don't live here in Southern California, realize that many of these species may live in your area as well.      

I hope you enjoy this.  We, of course, have most or all of these palms for sale at the nursery in an assortment of sizes.  And, for your enthusiasts, we probably have several hundred other cool species for you to try.

       

king palm
Archontophoenix cunninghamiana
Bismarckia nobilis
Bismarckia nobiis
Brahea armata Palm Tree in California
Brahea armata
Caryota gigas
Caryota gigas 
Chambeyronia macrocarpa
Chambeyronia macrocarpa 
Chamaedorea costaricana
Chamaedorea costaricana
Coccothrinax
Coccothrinax species 
copernicia baileyana
Copernicia baileyana
Cryosophila
Cryosophila species 
Cyphophoenix species
Cyphophoenix species' 
Dypsis decaryi
Dypsis decaryi
Dypsis decipiens mr
Dypsis decipiens (habitat) 
Dypsis leptocheilos
Dypsis leptocheilos
Dypsis onilahensis
Dypsis onilahensis 
Euterpe edulis
Euterpe edulis 
Hedyscepe canterburyana
Hedyscepe canterburyana
Howea forsteriana
Howea forsteriana 
Howea belmoreana
Howea belmoreana
Jubaea chilensis
Jubaea chilensis 
Kentiopsis oliviformis
Kentiopsis oliviformis 
Livistona decipiens
Livistona decipiens
Parajubaea torallyi
Parajubaea torallyi 
phoenix rupicola
Phoenix rupicola
Pinanga coronata
Pinanga coronata 
Pritchardia martii
Pritchardia species 
Pritchardia species
Pritchardia species 
Ravenea glauca
Ravenea glauca 
Ravenea species giant
Ravenea species 
Rhapis humilus
Rhapis humilus 
Rhopalostylis sapida
Rhopalostylis sapida 
Roystonea borinquena
Roystonea borinquena 
sabal causiarum
Sabal causiarum 
Syagrus pseudococos
Syagrus pseudococos 
Veitchia arecina
Veitchia arecina 
Wodyetia bifurcata
Wodyetia bifurcata 

On all the genera above there may be many more species within the same genus that also grow well for us here.  I apologize if I haven't included your favorite species in this group, but this is meant to be a brief introduction and I wanted to keep it simple.  I have utilized these species in a brief article summarizing Palms for Southern California elsewhere at this website 

 

PLANT CONTAINER SIZES

For growers here on the West Coast, there are black plastic containers that most of us use on our plants.  Surprisingly, there are differences between the pots used on the West Coast and East Coast of the U.S.  Here we refer to most containers by "gallon size"  On the East Coast pots are referred to by "diameter in inches".  So, back East you might find a plant in a "14 inch pot".  Here is might be called a "15 gallon pot".  If you visit our price and availability catalog, plants are shown by their pot size.  I'm hoping that this Blog post this morning will help clarify what individual pots look like. 

CONTAINER SIZE PHOTO EMPTY CONTAINER PHOTO OF PLANTS IN 
THIS CONTAINER
BAND SIZE CONTAINER
This pot is 3 x 3 x 9 inches, square in shape.  It is used for seedling plants.  For most growers, it has replaced the one gallon pot.  It is a bit deeper and easier to place in carrying trays.  It also conserves space on benches because these can be placed close together.  You can get a pretty nice plant in a band container, sometimes up to 30 inches tall.
band container chamaedorea in band
ONE GALLON POT
This is a very common pot used, especially by flower growers and those producing small shrubs.  It's a typical first step after germinating a seedling.  We prefer using the band containers above as they conserve table and bench space more efficiently and are deeper.  Diameter of this pot is six inches but it's only about seven inches deep.
one gallon pot plants in 1g pots
     
TWO GALLON POT
This pot is 7 to 8 inches wide and about 8 inches deep.  It is a nice size to move a band plant into.  But, it is not particularly deep, so you have to make sure the roots fit into the container. This pot will produce an average plant that is about 2 feet tall. We grow a lot of palms in these pots.
2g pot empty plant in 2g oot
FIVE GALLON POT
This pot is 10 inches wide and about 10 inches deep.  It produces a plant that is one of the most common sized palms that we sell.  It is popular because it's not too heavy to lift and plants are typically three to five feet tall, depending on the species.   
5 gallon pot plants in 5g pots
SEVEN GALLON POT
We really like this container because it produces a good sized plant but isn't as heavy to carry as a 15g.  But, for some manufacturing reason, this pot costs twice as much as a 15g.  Therefore, most growers aren't buying this sized pot very much nowadays.  It is 12 inches wide, and about 12 inches deep.
7 gallon pot palm in 7g pot
FIFTEEN GALLON POT
This is the most popular sized purchased by people who want a landscape or near-landscape ready size of plant.  This container typically supports a palm from four to eight feet size.  Weight of this size of container with soil and plant is usually sixty to ninety pounds.  It's size is 15 to 16 inches wide and 16 inches deep.  Note how this size pot usually has a nice carrying lip at the top of the pot.     
15g pot plant in 15g pot
TWENTY/TWENTY-FIVE GALLON POTS
This is the next size up from a 15g.  These pots are typically about 18 to 20 inches wide and 16 to 18 inches deep.  They weight anywhere from 125 to 150 pounds with their soil.  They can produce a plant larger than the 15g, typically 8 to 10 feet. They usually have a flat lip on the top as shown. The pot shown here is actually a 25g pot.  20 g are a bit smaller.
25 g pot plant in 25g pot
24 INCH BOX CONTAINER
This box is 24 inches wide, square in shape and about 22 to 24 inches deep.  The weight of this container depends on the mix, but is anywhere from 175 to 300 pounds (this heavier weight is if one is using a very heavy soil).  It takes two men to lift one of these.  We prefer plastic boxes as shown here, but they are much more expensive than wooden box.  They last a very long time.
24 inch box plant in 24 inch box
ALL POT SIZES IN A ROW
This pot shows all the sizes lined up in a row.  In order, left to right are:

band size
one gallon
two gallon
five gallon
seven gallon
fifteen gallon
twenty gallon
24 inch box









SIZES WE USE NOT SHOWN HERE


Deep band containers
Citrus pots
25 gallon
30 gallon
35 gallon
45 gallon
30 inch boxes
36 inch boxes

Note:  Larger pots/boxes can get very heavy and are too heavy to mail order by usual means - independent trucker needed for these.

empty pots in a row 
Pots to left lined up in a row

cycad in 36 inch box
Cycad in 36 inch box

 

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HOW THESE TEN DAY SPECIALS WORK

•  NEW SPECIALS ARE ADDED FREQUENTLY AND EXPIRATION DATE FOR SALE PRICES ARE TEN DAYS AFTER INITIAL POSTING. 
•  SOON AFTER EXPIRATION, DATED SALE ITEMS WILL BE REMOVED FROM THIS PAGE
•  FOR MAIL ORDERS, JUST CALL US.  WE DO NOT PRESENTLY HAVE A
"SHOPPING CART" BECAUSE ALMOST ALL CUSTOMERS NEED HELP WITH DECIDING WHAT TO ORDER. WE WANT YOUR PLANTS TO THRIVE!
•  AT THIS THREAD, MOST RECENT SPECIALS ARE LISTED AT THE TOP
•  TERMS OF SALE ARE GIVEN HERE BELOW - RESTRICTIONS AND CANCELLATION FEES MAY APPLY.  
•  SOME ITEMS ARE IN LIMITED SUPPLY AND MAY SELL OUT QUICKLY •  PHOTOS SHOWN ABOVE SOMETIMES ARE ONLY REPRESENTATIVE OF THE SALE ITEMS. 
•  MAIL ORDER PLANTS ARE SHIPPED TYPICALLY THE SAME DAY OR THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY IN THEIR CONTAINERS WITH SOIL TO GIVE YOU THE BEST CHANCES OF SURVIVAL
•  SHIPPING CHARGES APPLY TO ALL MAIL ORDERS.  ESTIMATES OF SHIPPING COSTS CAN BE GIVEN ON REQUEST.
•  PURCHASED PLANTS CAN BE HELD FOR FREE AND SHIPPED WHEN YOU TELL US OR WEATHER PERMITS
•  TO GET THESE DISCOUNTED PRICES, MENTION SPECIALS ABOVE  AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE.  IT'S SORT OF LIKE A "PAPERLESS COUPON" 



TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR SALE ITEMS SHOWN ABOVE AND OTHER PURCHASES

 
•  SALE PRICES ARE FOR A LIMITED TIME SHOWN ON EACH POST ABOVE
•  ALL SPECIALS ARE FOR A TEN DAY PERIOD AND EXPIRE TEN DAYS AFTER INITIAL POSTING
•  AT NO TIME ARE THERE "DOUBLE DISCOUNTS" - PERCENTAGE DISCOUNTS DO NOT APPLY TO OTHER SPECIALS
•  DISCOUNTS OR SALE SPECIALS DO NOT APPLY TO SHIPPING OR HANDLING CHARGES.  THEY DO NOT APPLY TO SPECIAL ORDER PLANTS OR ITEMS WE HAVE TO SEARCH FOR APART FROM OUR PLANT INVENTORY.
•  SALES TAX MAY APPLY, DEPENDING ON WHERE YOU LIVE
• NO INTERNATIONAL SHIPMENTS WILL BE SENT OR TAKEN
• CYCADS AND CITES LISTED ENDANGERED SPECIES ARE FOR DOMESTIC UNITED STATES USAGE OR PURCHASE ONLY
•  NO WARRANTY OR GUARANTEE IS GIVEN OR IMPLIED ON YOUR ABILITY TO GROW THE PLANTS IN YOUR LOCALITY• 
•  MAIL ORDER ITEMS SENT VIA UPS PRESENTLY UNLESS OTHERWISE ARRANGED
• AVAILABILITY VARIES.  ITEMS ON SALE MAY SELL OUT WITHOUT NOTICE AND NO LONGER BE AVAILABLE.
•  FOR COMPANY SHIPPING POLICIES, GUARANTEES AND REFUNDS SEE
JUNGLE MUSIC POLICIES.  CANCELLED ORDERS OR SHIPMENTS MAY BE SUBJECT TO A CANCELLATION FEE DESCRIBED UNDER OUR POLICIES.

 

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Phil Bergman
Owner, Jungle Music Palms, Cycads & Tropical Plants
Phone - for orders or availability:  619 291 4605
Email:  phil@junglemusic.net

 

 
 
Jungle Music Palm Trees, Cycads and Tropical Plants


  




Website:

www.junglemusic.net  Email:  phil@junglemusic.net

Nursery Location:

 450 Ocean View Ave., Encinitas, CA  92024

Nursery Phone:  619 291 4605
Nursery Hours:

 Monday - Saturday, 9AM - 4PM
 Sunday typically closed

Directions to Nursery: Freeway Close. Take Freeway 5 to Encinitas
(10 minutes south of Oceanside, 30 minutes north of San Diego). 
Exit Leucadia Blvd West (toward ocean).
Immediate left on Orpheus Ave, left on Union St,
Right on Ocean View Ave to Nursery, which is at 450 Ocean View Ave
Mailing Address:

3233 Brant Street, San Diego, CA 92103
 

  All major credit cards accepted

Visitors in past ten years shown in small blue counting box above.  About 14 million people since 1997.
 

 

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Palms, Cycads & Tropical Plants
Last modified: continually 
every 2 to 3 days

 

  All major credit cards accepted