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
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NURSERY LOCATION - ENCINITAS, CALIFORNIA
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PALM PRICES OR CYCAD PRICES
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450 Ocean view Ave, Encinitas, CA 92024 Hours: M-Sat, 9AM to 4PM
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Email:  phil@junglemusic.net  or 
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 Plants shipped in pots with soil.  For larger plants use trucking services.
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We deliver or we utilize independent trucking services on any size plants.

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                              MONDAY, 30 SEPTEMBER, 2024


THE TRAVELER PALM

RAVENALA MADAGASCARENSIS
BANANA APPEARING TREE IN ONE PLANE


CAN BE GROWN IN SOUTHERN CA
CURRENTLY 5 AND 15 GALLON AVAILABLE|
THEY'RE DIFFICULT TO FIND

The Traveler Palm is a "banana-looking" tree that likes sun in most areas.  They are cold hardy down to about  a freeze.  We currently have about ten of them for sale at the Nursery.  They are nicely sized.  This is a quick growing plant and these should do well for most of you that don't freeze.  These are fast growing.  They like sun in most areas but do not take a freeze - which will melt them overnight.  Remember, this species puts out banana type leaves in one plane.  They can sucker and we recommend removing small suckers.  Mature plant height is about 20 feet in our locality.  I've got quite a few customers in Southern CA who have such trees in their garden.  For people who want something cool looking and rare, this is the right "tree" for you.   The 5 gallon size can be shipped via UPS but take a pretty tall box.  The 15g are too big to ship.

To read more on the Traveler Palm, click here:  TRAVELER PALM ARTICLE

The 5 gallon size is shown in the first row below followed by the 15 gallon in the second row.

Ravanala madagascarensis 5g Ravenala madagascarensis Ravanala madagscarensis Traveler Palm 5g  
Ravanala madagascarensis 15g Ravanala madagascarensis 15g Ravanala madagascarensis 15g  
Ravenala madagascarensis Ravenala madagascarensis Ravenala madagascarensis  

  

CYCAS RUMPHII
FAIRLY RARE, MEDIUM SIZED GREEN CYCAD
REASONABLY COLD HARDY


This species of Cycas is most likely a complex of somewhat different appearing plants depending on where the native habitat is located.  Its distribution spreads through the Philippines, Indonesia and New Guinea.  This is also a tall species with trunks over thirty feet tall.  Trunks are thin, under a foot, and can branch above the ground.  Leaves are up to eight feet long and wooly when emergent.  Petioles are armed and leaf color is green when mature.  Leaves are also flat in cross section.

Characteristic of this species are the wide and glossy green leaflets  and rather wide leaves.  Shown here is a nice 15g plant demonstrating the appearance of this species.  Also shown are garden specimens.  This species likes filtered light and perhaps full sun along the coast.  It is a good grower with cold tolerance in the mid to low 20's F. range.  Our nursery plants appear untouched by a freeze.  Shown below is an older 15 gallon plant with trunk at the Nursery. 


Cycas rumphii Cycas rumphii Cycas rumphii
Cycas rumphii Cycas rumphii 15g Cycas rumphii 15g

  

PRITCHARDIA SPECIES
OLD AND HUGE 15G PLANTS


UNKNOWN SPECIES FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION
HAWAIIAN SPECIES ONLY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE
 

Pritchardia are single trunk fan palms.  They grow in Hawaii and some tropical islands, but we only grow the Hawaiian species as they grow much better in Southern California.  We offer about 15 species.  Most species are short to medium mature heights but there are a few that get up to fifty feet or more.  Leaves are green with some having dusty colors on the bottom of the leaves.  Trunk widths are thin to medium in size.  The Pritchardia shown here are representative of most of the 15 gallon that we have.  They are super large and the size of a typical 25 gallon plant.  Note the formed trunk at the base and overall size.  A representative 15g (not the largest of the group for sure) is shown in the first two rows of photos.  A 25 gallon is shown in the third row of photos. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE 15 GALLON HUGE PALMS $350
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS BATCH OF VERY LARGE 15 GALLON $295

Just mention this Blog Only Special at time of purchase to get your discount.
 
Pritchardia species 15g Pritchardia species 15g Pritchardia species 15g
Pritchardia species 15g Pritchardia species 15g Pritchardia species 15g
Pritchardia species Pritchardia species 15g Pritchardia species 15g
Pritchardia species 15g Pritchardia species Pritchardia species 15g

 

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 $265
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $225


Syagrus schizophylla 15g Syagrus schizophylla 15g Syagrus schizophylla 15g
Syagrus schizophylla 15g Syagrus schizophylla 15g Syagrus schizophylla 15g
Syagrus schizophylla 15g Syagrus schizophylla Syagrus schizophylla

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX MAXIMA
LARGEST OF THE KING PALMS

 

GREEN LEAVES – STATELY TRUNK AND CROWN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 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 15 gallon size, mostly singles but some multiples.  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 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $205


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 15g Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples
Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples
Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples
Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples Archontophoenix maxima luke nancarrow AU Archontophoenix maxima 15g  singles / multiples

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX MAXIMA
LARGEST OF THE KING PALMS

 

GREEN LEAVES – STATELY TRUNK AND CROWN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE


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

Archontophoenix maxima large 5g Archontophoenix maxima large 5g Archontophoenix maxima large 5g
Archontophoenix maxima large 5g Archontophoenix maxima large 5g Archontophoenix maxima large 5g

 

LIVISTONA LANGINOSA
THE WOOLY LIVISTONA


TALL, THINNER TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 G SIZE

This single trunk fan palm is native to northeastern Australia.  It has previously been referred to as the Cape River Livistona.  Formal description was first done by John Dowe in 1998 - followed by other revisions.  It gets to heights above thirty feet with a trunk diameter of 10 to 18 inches.  In habitat it tolerates hot and arid conditions.  It is a full sun species with cold hardiness to at least the low 20's F.

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

Just mention this Blog Special for your discount.  The first habitat photo is c/o Darrel Oconnor Palmpedia and the second by John Dowe c/o Palm Specialist Group

Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa
Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa
Livistona lanuginosa Darrel Oconnor PalmPedia Livistona lanuginosa  

  

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 exceed 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 $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 5 GALLON $125


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 leafs  CHAMAEDOREA ARENBERGIANA

 

CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA
NATIVE TO MOROCCO
THE SEMI-DWARF "BLUE MED FAN"



FULL HOT SUN - EXTREMELY COLD HARDY 
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON PLANTS

This interesting palm is a suckering blue fan palm is native to Morocco.  It's actually quite amazing that it took a long time for taxonomists to realize that it was a species and had it's own unique characteristics.  It's definitely a deep blue color but also it never gets as large as Chamaereops humilus.  The problem was that there were also native short clones of the later.  Chamaerops cerifera is one of the most cold hardy species for those of you in super cold areas.  I've had reports of it going down to 13 degrees F.  Mature height is about six feet or so.  Color is blue in hot sun.  This species does sucker.  Most importantly, with age and full sun, they will have blue leaves (see garden photos).  The plants on special here are nicely sized and suckering five gallon plants.  They'd be easy to ship for mail order customers.  On occasion we do offer larger sizes.   
 
REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $115


Remember: Mention this Special for your discount. 

 
CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 5G CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 5G CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 5G
CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 5G CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 5G CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 5G
CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA

 

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.

 

CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS
SINGLE TRUNK, DWARF UNDERSTORY PALM

 

PREFERS FILTERED LIGHT – NEVER TALL
SIMPLE UNDIVIDED LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE


This species has a native distribution that spreads from Southern Mexico down throughout Central America.  There are some minor differences in plants from the various areas.  Chamaedorea geonomiformis is single trunk and has a simple, bifed leaf as shown here.  It's mature height ranges from two feet up to about five feet tall.  When trying to identify this species, particularly look at the leaf size, shape, length and width.  You'll note that the leaves of this species are longer than they are wide.  Compare this to C. ernesti-agusti below that has very wide leaflets.  Leaf color is green.  Vertical growth is slow.  We only have a few of these for sale.  I'd estimate cold hardiness into the upper teens perhaps but most assuredly to the mid-twenties.  These plants were grown from seeds from Don Hodel’s personal plants.  We're offering nice one gallons on Special.  Be aware that this species does not like direct sun.

Also, be aware that this is a rare and desirable species and seldom seen for sale.

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON SIZE $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $65

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.  This size can be mail ordered.


CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS 1g CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS 1g CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS 1g
CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS 1g Chamaedorea geonomiformis CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS 1g

    

PRITCHARDIA HILLEBRANDII
A HAWAIIAN LOULU FAN PALM


MEDIUM SIZED MATURE - NICE SEMI-FLAT GREEN LEAVES
WHITE TOMENTUM ON LEAF STEMS AND INNER CROWN
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE

If you like fan palms, then you have to try some Pritchardia palms.  There are about 25 species of Pritchardia.  All the best ones come from the Hawaiian Islands.  The species from the South Pacific are to be avoided as they don't do well here.  This species reaches a medium height of 25 feet.  Leaves are green.  They have white tomentum (hairs) on the leaf stem and trunk.  You can even see this on the leaf stems of the one gallon below.  C Trunk diameter is medium, about ten inches.  Growth rate is medium.  This is a very attractive palm.  I have one in my garden that gets partial sun and is at least 20 feet tall.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-twenties F.  Mail order easy.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $65
 
Pritchardia  hillebrandii 1g Pritchardia  hillebrandii 1g Pritchardia  hillebrandii 1g
Pritchardia  hillebrandii 1g Pritchardia  hillebrandii 1g Pritchardia  hillebrandii 1g
Pritchardia  hillebrandii  Pritchardia  hillebrandii Palmpedia Pritchardia  hillebrandii

 

DYPSIS "MAHAJANGA"
SINGLE TRUNK OR SUCKERING

FLUFFY PLUMOSE LEAF
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE

This is a species of plant from Madagascar.  The name is a “locational” name – where the plant is from.  I am unaware of an exact species name at this time.  The seeds of this "species" first came out about twenty-five years ago.  From seeds, some of these plants ended up being single trunk, others suckering.   Seeds came from as private grower in El Cajon, CA His tree has three trunks, see photo below.  He said it was an easy grow in his full sun. I have a limited number of one gallon plants which I’m putting on sale.  Leaves are quite plumose or “fluffy” in appearance.  They seem to be reasonably cold hardy and should mature at heights under twenty feet.  I'd give part day sun.  The most similar species to these plants is Dypsis madagascarensis.  The mature palm below was photographed by Al Bredison.  It's suckering with two trunks, possibly three.  This species is recommended.

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $65

Mention this Special to get this price at the time of purchase.  This size would be easy to mail order.


Dypsis mahajanga 1g Dypsis mahajanga 1g Dypsis mahajanga 1g
Dypsis mahajanga 1g Dypsis mahajanga 1g Dypsis mahajanga 1g
  dypsis mahajanga AB Palmpedia  

 

CARYOTA URENS
THE GIANT MOUNTAIN FISHTAIL

FAST GROWING - SUPER TALL - DIFFICULT TO FIND
REASONABLY COLD HARDY TALL BIPINNAT PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS

Yes, this species of Fishtail is super fast growing.  And, it's not unusual for one to get above 70 feet tall.  Some people love the grandeur of these palms.  And, for some, they want it "right now".  Well, this is an opportunity to satisfy that need.  Planted out, once established, this is a super fast growing palm.  It would not be unusual to go from a seedling to a height of 30 feet in six or seven years.  This species is native to northern Thailand and surrounding countries.  The trunk is about 16 inches or so thick and light tan in color.  The leaves are compound – bipinnate.  This means the main stem branches off into secondary leaf stems.  Leaflets are jagged at their ends.  Also, this is a monoecious palm that dies about three years after flowering  It wants full coastal sun.  It is taller than Caryota gigas and has shorter leaves and a thinner trunk.  We’re putting nice band sized seedlings on sale.  Easy to mail order.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE BAND SEEDLINGS $55

Easy to mail order.  Limited numbers available.


Caryota uren band Caryota uren band Caryota uren band
Caryota uren band Caryota uren band Caryota urens
Caryota urens Caryota urens Caryota urens

 

ENCEPHALARTOS TRANSVENOSUS
LARGE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD SPECIES

GREEN LEAVES - QUICK GROWING
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE


Shown here below is a good sized plant of a green South African cycad that, in the ground, makes a large and magnificent plant.  Encephalartos transvenosus gets enormous with trunks over 20 feet tall.  Leaves are six to eight feet long and leaflets are shiny, dark green with some glaucous faint hairs on the leaflets.  So, it makes a big show.  The plants on special below are 3 to 4 year old band size.  They can be easily shipped within the U.S.  See first six photos.  Be aware that this makes a good sized cycad and needs room to grow.  This is a full sun species along the coast with a cold tolerance is 22 degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE THIS BAND SIZE $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $60

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


Encephalartos transvenosus band Encephalartos transvenosus band Encephalartos transvenosus band
Encephalartos transvenosus band Encephalartos transvenosus band Encephalartos transvenosus band
Encephalartos transvenosus BY MR Encephalartos transvenosus Encephalartos transvenosus MR

 

ENCEPHALARTOS CERINUS
DWARF SOUTH AFRICAN SPECIES

 

VERY SMALL CYCAD - GRAY-GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GARDEN READY PLANTS - BOTH 15 GALLON SIZE

This rare dwarf species of South African cycad is quite petite and never gets over four feet tall.  Leaves are gray-green to sea foam green and about three feet long.  A mature caudex is six to eight inches.  This species likes sun and is cold hardy to the low 20's F.  This is a rare and sought out species and never inexpensive.  We are putting two 15 gallon on sale.  We do have an assortment of other sizes available.  Our 5g are easy to mail order.  We do have shippable plants this species with somewhat larger caudexes 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON CAUDEX SIZE 5 INCHES $925
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT $800

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON CAUDEX SIZE 3.5 INCHES $675
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT $595

Just remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount when you purchase.


Encephalartos cerinus 15g 5 & 3.5 inches Encephalartos cerinus 15g 5 & 3.5 inches Encephalartos cerinus 15g 5 & 3.5 inches
Encephalartos cerinus 15g 5 & 3.5 inches Encephalartos cerinus 15g 5 & 3.5 inches Encephalartos cerinus 15g 5 & 3.5 inches

 

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  $1875
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $1400 


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

 

DASYLIRION LONGISSIMUM
THE MEXICAN GRASS PLANT


MEDIUM SIZED UNUSUAL SUN PLANT
DROUGHT TOLERANT - LOVES FULL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD SIZED 5 GALLON SIZE

This interesting drought tolerant plant is native to Mexico and extremely drought tolerant.  In gardens, I've seen a few older plants with a few feet of trunk.  But, this species can actually get a trunk that is six or eight feet tall in fifty or a hundred years.  It loves hot sun.  The crown of needle like leaves is about eight feet across.  Each leaf is about the size of a knitting needle and four to six feet long.  They come to a point but are not very dangerous except perhaps to one's eye.  The plant looks like a "Pom Pom on a Trunk".  Leaf color is blue to blue green.  Cold tolerance is into the teens F.  They like hot sun.  I'm offering a nice discount on good sized 5 gallon plants as shown below.  The stems are around 4 inches thick at the base.  Plant age is about 8 years.  This size can easily be mail orderd.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 5 GALLON $95

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

DASYLIRION LONGISSIMUM mex grass 5g 4 inches DASYLIRION LONGISSIMUM mex grass 5g 4 inches DASYLIRION LONGISSIMUM mex grass 5g 4 inches
DASYLIRION LONGISSIMUM mex grass 5g 4 inches DASYLIRION LONGISSIMUM mex grass 5g 4 inches DASYLIRION LONGISSIMUM mex grass 5g 4 inches
Mexican Grass Plant Mexican Grass Plant Mexican Grass Plant

 

SCHEFFLERA TREE
UMBRELLA TREE


MEDIUM SIZED MATURE - GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 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 THESE LARGE 25 GALLON $650
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE LARGE 25 GALLON $550

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

 

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  

 

 

                              FRIDAY, 27 SEPTEMBER, 2024  


RHAPIDOPHYLLUM HYSTRIX

THE NEEDLE PALM
THE WORLD'S MOST COLD HARDY PALM!


In the past  I've tried to show you a good assortment of very cold hardy palm species.  This particular species, the Needle Palm, is without doubt, the most cold hardy of them all.  It can tolerate temperatures below zero degrees F.  People have been able to grow this species (sometimes with cold protection) in "non-palm growing" areas such as Utah, New Mexico, Ohio, New York, etc.  It is not a tall species, typically getting to about eight feet.  It is a fan palm, it suckers freely and in many areas tolerates full sun.  It is known as the "Needle Palm" because of the presence of fairly long black "neele-like" spines randomly directed on the trunk.  I like it the most when it's grown in strong filtered light or part day sun because the leaves are a darker green.  Photos below show a "Rhapis-looking" leaf with a dark, olive green appearance. It is native to southeast United States.  We typically have available an assortment of sizes from seedlings and 5g plants and sometimes 15g plants - but this varies over time.  Sometimes we sell out.  This is a slow growing species and for me to make a nice 15g takes about 8 years.  Seeds are produced on very short flower stocks, so collecting seeds means you have to carefully reach in between needles to get your harvest.  
 


Rhapidophyllum hystrix 15g Rhapidophyllum hystrix 15g Rhapidophyllum hystrix 25g
Rhapidophyllum hystrix Rhapidophyllum hystrix trunk with needles Rhapidophyllum hystrix trunk close up
Rhapidophyllum hystrix Rhapidophyllum hystrix Rhapidophyllum hystrix leaf

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX ALEXANDRAE
THE ALEXANDRA PALM
AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE COMMON KING PALM


This attractive but tall single trunk, pinnate palm is from Queensland, Australia.  In habitat, it gets to a height of eighty feet.  Its trunk is typically one foot in diameter, sometimes having a bit of a bulge at the base.  Trunks are usually straight with a long green crownshaft.  The overall crown is larger than the regular king with leaves up to ten feet.  Archontophoenix cunninghamiana are a bit shorter in length.  Another importnt difference is that the underside of the leaves are silver colored on the alexandrae.  Regular King Palms are a dull green and have ramenta (small fibrous hairs). 

This species is attractive if planted in groups of two or three together.  Shown here is a 25g double as well as a single trunk plant.  Cold tolerance is about 25 to 26 degrees.  They do well with part day sun or full sun along the coast.  They prefer a rich, well draining soil and love water.  We have an excellent assortment of sizes of this species for sale.  The last photo shows a nice plant in full sun in Southern California.  The next to last photo is one of my all time favorite pictures.  I took this photo south of Hilo, Hawaii.  It shows a naturalized colony of this species mixed in with flowering Coral Trees.  
 

Archontophoenix alexandrae  Archontophoenix alexandrae  ARCHONTOPHOENIX ALEXANDRAE 
Archontophoenix alexandrae  Archontophoenix alexandrae  Archontophoenix myolensis 

 

NEW ARRIVALS TO NURSERY
JUST ARRIVED FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION
ASSORTED BLUE ENCEPHALARTOS


ALL WANT FULL SUN, TOLERATE HEAT
SHIPPING POSSIBLE ON MOST
TEN DAY SPECIAL ALL THESE BLUE CYCADS


About two dozen super blue Encephalartos just arrived at the nursery.  All plants below are South African cycads.  Almost all of them are in the 15 gallon size.  Caudex sizes are variable but most are shippable plants and reasonably affordable.  Figure pricing at around $130 per diameter inch with an extra charge for pups.  All were outdoor grown in sun and will want your full sun unless you live in a desert area.  Figure cold tolerance at about 20 - 22 degrees F.  All are desirable species and all should be a nice addition to the garden.  Blue cycads are the most popular cycads we sell and, right now, we're loaded with a lot of the 15 gallon size.  Almost all of these are a shippable size but only within the U.S.  Size in inches below is the "caudex size" - basis for cost of the plant.

REGULAR PRICE THESE BLUE CYCADS $150 PER INCH,
TEN DAY SPECIAL $130 PER INCH CAUDEX DIAMETER
(Note:  Plants with significant vertical caudex or pups will have additional price adjustments)

Enceephalartos trispinosus 15g 7 inches  
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7 inches
Encephalartos blue arenarius 15g 4 inches
Encephalartos blue arenarius 15g 4 inches
Encephalartos horridus 24 inch box 10.5 inches with 4 inch pup
Encephalartos horridus 24 in box 10.5 inches with pup
Encephalartos horridus 25g 9inches with two pups 8 and 4 inches Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 4 inches Encephalartos lehmannii 20g 8.5 x 7.5 inches
Encephalartos horridus 25g 9 " - 2 pups 8  4 in  Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 4 inches  Encephalartos lehmannii 20g 8.5 x 7.5 inches  
Encephalartos munchii blue 15g 6 inches
Encephalartos munchii blue 15g 6 inches
Encephalartos princeps 15g 9 inches
Encephalartos princeps 15g 9 inches
Encephalartos princeps 20g 9.5 x 9 inches
Encephalartos princeps 20g 9.5 x 9 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 3 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 3 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7.5 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7.5 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 10 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 10 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 8 inches male in cone
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 8 inches male in cone
Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 4 inches
Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 4 inches

 

TRACHYCARPUS FORTUNEI
THE WINDMILL PALM
ONE OF THE MOST COLD HARDY PALMS

AVAILABLE NOW - HUGE 30 YEAR OLD PLANTS IN 24 INCH BOXES

Trachyarpus fortunei is the most commonly available and commonly grown of the Windmill Palms.  It is of Chinese origin .  It is referred to as the Chinese Windmill Palm, the Windmill Palm, or the Chusan Palm.  Note how the term "Windmill Palm" can refer to this particular species or to the genus as a whole.   It is not uncommon to see it growing in colder areas of the United States, southern Europe, the Mediterranean and southern portions of Australia and Africa.  Cold tolerance is between five and ten degrees F.

To get an overhead canopy of leaves may take one about ten years.  Mature, they get to a height of 20 feet or more.  The actual trunk diameter is typically six to ten inches.  The leaves are typically about three feet in diameter and have variable division of the segments. Leaves are green on the upper side and below, but it is not uncommon for one can see a bit of blue discoloration to the underside of the leaf.  Distal leaf segments can flex downward toward the ground. 

Shown below are some very large 24 inch boxed plants that are about 30 years old.  Some have trunks up to eight feet.  There about two dozen of them.  We thought we'd sell some before they go into 30 inch boxes.  They are sun ready for your garden.  Below I'm also showing some mature garden plants from the San Diego area.  These are too big for mail order.  Ten Day Special being offered.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 24 INCH BOXED PLANTS WITH LOTS OF TRUNK $695

Trachycarpus fortunei 24 inch box old plants Trachycarpus fortunei 24 inch box old plants Trachycarpus fortunei 24 inch box old plants
Trachycarpus fortunei large 25g Trachycarpus fortunei large 25g
Trachycarpus fortunei Trachycarpus fortunei large 25g Trachycarpus fortunei

 

BECCARIOPHOENIX MADAGASCARENSIS
AKA "BECCARIOPHOENIX NO-WINDOWS""

 

LARGER PINNATE PALM FROM MADAGASCAR
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS RARELY SEEN 20 GALLON SIZE

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 that is the number one species of this genus that we sell.

All three are single trunk, medium to large plants from Madagascar.  Along the coast, all can take full sun.  Estimated cold hardiness is into the mid and perhaps lower 20's F.  The species we're putting on special is a 20 gallon specimen of the "No-Windows" variety, B. madagascarensis.  You'll not see these around hardly at all in Southern California.  This plant is older and in the pinnate stage of it's development.  Contrast this with the "windows" form (fenestralis) which has small leaf openings, similar to small window panes, in the leaf - between the leaflets.  With time these disappear and it becomes a pinnate palm. The 20 gallon on special is very nicely sized and at least 12 years old.  It is too heavy for standard UPS shipping.

REGULAR PRICE 20 GALLON THIS RARE PALM $695
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL 20 GALLON SPECIMEN $595 (Only one or two left!)

The garden photos are of a palm that's not fully mature yet in San Diego, CA

Beccariophoenix madagascarensis 20g  Beccariophoenix madagascarensis 20g  Beccariophoenix madagascarensis 20g
Beccariophoenix madagascarensis 20g  Beccariophoenix madagascarensis 20g  Beccariophoenix madagascarensis 20g
Beccariophoenix madagascarensis   Beccariophoenix madagascarensis 20g  Beccariophoenix madagascarensis 20g

 

BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII
THE MADAGASCAR PLATEAU COCONUT PALM

 

MEDIUM SIZED TRUNK
VERY SOUGHT AFTER - FOR FULL SUN ALONG THE COAST

TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 15 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 15 gallon plants on a ten day Special.  This size is shown in the first six photos below.  We also have 5 gallon available (see below) and much larger sizes. 

REGULAR PRICE15 GALLON SIZE $285
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $235

Limited supplies available.  The habitat photo is by TS at RPS. 


Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g
Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g
Beccariophoenix alfredii TS RPS  

 

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 $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL $235

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

 

LACCOSPADIX AUSTRALASICA
SINGLE TRUNK MOUNTAIN FORM




BEST GROWING SPECIES OF THE GENUS
RESEMBLES THE KENTIA PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL MULTIPLES 15 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 - but I suspect it'll be single trunk like the seed bearing parent.  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.  This is the case with the 15 gallon size on Special.

 

REGULAR PRICE 15G $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $225

Note:  The two mother plants we collected seeds on have succumbed to gophers.  So, our days of offering this species are near an end.  We have extremely limited numbers available.  Mention this Special for your discount.  

 

Laccospadix australasica 15g multiple Laccospadix australasica 15g multiple Laccospadix australasica 15g multiple
Laccospadix australasica 15g multiple Laccospadix australasica 15g multiple Laccospadix australasica 15g multiple
Laccospadix australasica 15g multiple Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica

 

LACCOSPADIX AUSTRALASICA
SUCKERING OR SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM


EASY TO GROW
RESEMBLES THE KENTIA PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 5G


FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE


REGULAR PRICE 5G $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 5G $125

Mention this Special at the time of purchase for this discount. 
 


Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica
Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica
Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica Laccospadix australasica

  

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 $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON THIS SIZE $
115


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  

 

DYPSIS SAINTELUCEI
SINGLE TRUNK - WHITE CROWN SHAFT
NATIVE TO MADAGASCAR



HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER - MEDIUM SIZE MATURE
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON FIVE GALLON WITH MULTIPLE 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.  Mature height is 15 to 20 feet.  The five gallon size is on Special.  These would be easy to ship.

REGULAR PRICE FIVE GALLON $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE FIVE GALLON MULTIPLES $120

You must mention this Internet-only special when purchasing to get this price.  Limited supplies available.  The 7th photo is by Jeff White, AU.  The 8th photo is by John Dransfield, RBG in England. 

Dypsis saintelucei 5g Dypsis saintelucei 5g Dypsis saintelucei 5g
Dypsis saintelucei 5g Dypsis saintelucei 5g Dypsis saintelucei 5g
Dypsis saintelucei Jeff White Pacsoa  Dypsis saintelucei JD at RBG Dypsis saintelucei  

 

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 $155
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $135

 

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



RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA
THE NIKAU PALM


NEW ZEALAND PALM - BULGING CROWN SHAFT
A FAVORITE OF ALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE BAND SIZE

We are updating our post on this species because the plants on speciasl have grown considerably.  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 sapidas band Rhopalostylis sapidas band Rhopalostylis sapidas band
Rhopalostylis sapidas band Rhopalostylis sapidas band Rhopalostylis sapidas band
Rhopalostylis sapida Rhopalostylis sapida Rhopalostylis sapida

 

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


COMPARISON WITH CARYOTA URENS
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS

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..

Presently we are offering young seedlings on special.  These would be easy to mail order.  For optimal results, these should be repotted into a larger container.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE BAND SEEDLINGS $52.50 (VERY LIMITED NUMBERS)


Caryota gigas band Caryota gigas band Caryota gigas band
Caryota gigas band Caryota gigas band Caryota gigas band
Caryota gigas Caryota gigas Caryota gigas leaf

  

ENCEPHALARTOS DYERIANUS
EXTREMELY RARE & HARD TO FIND SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD
ALMOST EXTINCT IN THE WILD



NATIVE TO THE TRANSVAAL DISTRICT
TEN DAY SPECIAL CIT POT SIZE WITH ABOUT 2 INCH CAUDEX

This sought after and very rare blue to blue-green South African cycad is native to the Limpopo Province in northern RSA.  There it is critically endangered with a few hundred plants remaining.  It lives on granite mountain slopes at an elevation of about 2000 feet.  It prefers full sun and is an average speed growing species.  Mature size is over ten feet in habitat in centuries.  Leaf color in full sun is typically blue.  It is considered one of the more rare of the "Transvaal" South African cycads.  On Special and shown below are citrus pot sized plants with 1.5 to 2 inch caudexes.  We have a petty nice supply of them.  Age is about 6 years.  They were grown from domestic seed and pollinated by a very knowledgeable enthusiast.  Most have four leaves.  The first six photos below show what these plants look like.  They are definitely starting to show nice blue color.  We may also have other sizes availble.  The last row of photos show some garden specimens.

REGULAR PRICE CITRUS POT WITH 1.5 TO 2 INCH CAUDEXES $600

TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZED PLANT THIS SIZE $425


Encephalartos dyerianus cit pot 1.5 - 2 in, 2 Encephalartos dyerianus cit pot 1.5 - 2 in, 2 Encephalartos dyerianus cit pot 1.5 - 2 in, 2
Encephalartos dyerianus cit pot 1.5 - 2 in, 2 Encephalartos dyerianus cit pot 1.5 - 2 in, 2 Encephalartos dyerianus cit pot 1.5 - 2 in, 2
Encephalartos dyerianus Encephalartos dyerianus Encephalartos dyerianus

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 three 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 $295

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

 

ENCEPHALARTOS WHITELOCKII
LARGER CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD
LONG UPRIGHT LEAVES
DIFFICULT TO FIND FOR SALE


TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SPECIES - ANY SIZE PLANT WE HAVE!

This unique and larger cycad is native to Uganda.  In fact, at one point it was called the "Uganda Giant Cycad".  This is because it has leaves that extend almost straight up toward the sky and can be twelve feet long or more.  Leaflets are narrow and armed with small spines.  The caudex is a light color
and in the wild can be up to ten feet tall.  Historically, as this species is similar to E. laurentianus, it was called also "Encephalartos laurentianus Lake George", referring to its specific habitat.  The nursery plants I'm showing today are locally grown 15g plants.  We have other sizes as well, both larger and smaller.  The last photo shows one of our boxed specimens.  Note the appearance of these plants with their long leaves with narrow leaflets.  Enthusiasts love this species because it's a good growing cycad.  Right on the coast I'd give it half day sun.  It's not quite a sun-tolerant as many of the South African species.  Cold tolerance is into the low 20's F.

SPECIAL - 15% OFF REGULAR PRICE ANY SIZE THIS SPECIES FOR TEN DAYS


Encephalartos whitelockii Encephalartos whitelockii Encephalartos whitelockii
Encephalartos whitelockii Encephalartos whitelockii Encephalartos whitelockii
Encephalartos whitelockii Encephalartos whitelockii ENCEPHALARTOS WHITELOCKII

 

MUSA SUMATRANA ZEBRINA
A NON-FRUITING BANANA ORNAMENTAL BANANA



TOP OF LEAF - RED BLOTCHES ON GREEN
BOTTOM OF LEAF - MAROON
TEN DAY SPECIL ONE GALLON SIZE


The plants I'm showing here are a non-fruiting type of ornamental Banana.  Like most Bananas, it does sucker and the mature height is six to eight feet.  It has light green leaves with attractive purple splotches and maroon underside.  See photos below.  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 one gallon on sale.  See first six photos below.  Also shown below is our 15g size of a similar Banana - Musa sumatana hybrid that looks quite similar to the one on sale.  But, these 15 gallon plants will produce fruit.  In the garden sumatrana zebrina wants at least half day sun.  Cold hardiness is into the mid 20's F. 

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $45
TEN DAY SPECIAL SALE PRICE 1 GALLON $37.50


MUSA SUMATRANA ZEBRINA MUSA SUMATRANA ZEBRINA MUSA SUMATRANA ZEBRINA
Musa sumatrana zebrina   Musa sumatrana zebrina   MUSA SUMATRANA ZEBRINA
Musa sumatrana zebrina   Musa sumatrana zebrina   Musa sumatrana zebrina  

 

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 their 8 inch pots.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 8 INCH CLUSTER PLANTS $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE LARGE CLUSTERS IN 8 INCH POTS $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  

 

ALOCASIA BLACK STEM AKA DARK STAR
VERY DARK STEMS AND LEAF VEINS



JUVENILE ONE GALLON PLANTS AVAILABLE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


This attractive tropical Alocasia has near black stems and veins.  Leaves are green.  Mature plants are four to five feet tall and want bright conditions.  They should get at least a few hours of sun or very bright filtered light conditions.  This is felt to be a variant of A. macrorhriza.  It has upright leaves.  It can be grown in zone 9B and warmer.  It likes good draining soil and adequate water.  We're offering juvine plants in five gallon size on Special.  Easy to mail order.

REGULAR PRICE FIVE GALLON $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $75

Alocasia dark star / stem 5g Alocasia dark star / stem 5g
Alocasia dark star / stem 5g Alocasia dark star / stem 5g Alocasia dark stem

   

STAGHORN FERN
PLATYCERIUM BIFURCATA


EPIPHYTIC FERN THAT LIVES IN TREES
ANTLER TYPE LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL WOOD MOUNTED PLANTS


Country or area of origin:  
South America, Africa, southern Asia, Australia and PNG
Mature height:  Form epiphytic clumping plants that in many decades can reach several meters width
Sun Requirements:  Part sun or filtered light
Cold Tolerance:  Low 20's F. by estimate
Water Requirements:  Low   
Rate of Growth:  
Slow
Sizes Available: 
 Mounted on wood as shown or in baskets

Size shown: 
 8 inch container grown as cluster of plants
Comments:  This species grows in trees.  Often all you see when you look up in the rainforest, all you see is a large clump of leaves with their brown shields.  We sell them mounted on wood (sort of epiphytic) where you'd hang them on a branch or a nail in a fence. Occasionally we sell them in baskets as shown below.  Give them part sun.  Spray them about ever week or so with water and fertilize them every few months with liquid fertilizer.  They are reliable performers when grown correctly.

Note:  The plants we have available are various sizes but none are small.  They can be mail ordered.  Some have grown it indoors but needs misting and occasional deep watering.


TEN DAY SALE PRICE ASSORTED & MOUNTED SPECIEMENS $75 - $100


Staghorn Fern Mounted Staghorn Fern Mounted Staghorn Fern Mounted
Staghorn Fern Mounted Staghorn Fern Mounted Platycerium bifurcatum staghorn

 

PAVONIA MULTIFLORA
BRAZILIAN CANDLES -SMALL SIZED TREE FOR SHADE

RED BLOSSOMS IN SHADE!  AND, HARD TO FIND


AND, LOADED WITH 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.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $55
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $40


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 1g PAVONIA MULTIFLORA
Pavonia multiflora 1g Pavonia multiflora 1g
Pavonia multiflora Pavonia multiflora Pavonia multiflora
Pavonia multiflora Pavonia multiflora Pavonia multiflora

 

                              WEDNESDAY, 25 SEPTEMBER, 2024 

ENCEPHALARTOS FEROX
EXOTIC GREEN MEDIUM SIZED SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD


INTERESTING & ATTRACTIVE CYCAD WITH STUNNING RED FEMALE CONE
HOLLY FERN-LIKE LEAFLETS
LARGE SELECTION AVAILABLE AT THE NURSERY

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.  If the cone color doesn't show hear, trust that it's a definite "fire engine red" color.  Plants like the one shown are for sale.  The caudex size of the plant below 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 leaf.  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 including coning sized plants.  Be aware that 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

 

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM

LARGE SPECIMEN SIZED PLANTS AVAILABLE
SPECIMENS WITH FIFTEEN TO TWENTY-FIVE FEET OF TRUNK 

This pinnate New World species is another favorite of many enthusiasts.  It is native to Florida, Cuba and some surrounding areas.  It is now well known that this palm can be grown in many areas of Southern California.  If you can grow a King Palm, there's a good chance you can grow a Royal Palm.  There are multiple species of Roystonea.  The most common and sought after species is the Cuban Royal, Roystonea regia.  Royal Palms love heat and sun.  Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F.  They are fast growers. 

I have an associate who’s company is offering very large Royal Palms with trunk heights of 15 to 25 feet.  These are field grown in desert type areas of Southern California.  These growers have become experts on digging and establishing their plants.  They are sold in an assortment of trunk sizes and are all single trunk specimens.  They are sold either bagged with a large root ball or in large boxes.  They have been successfully dug and planted in many enthusiasts yards or on commercial sites. 

If you are interested in learning more about availability and prices, email me directly at my email address on this webpage.  The two garden photos are of Royal Palms thriving in the San Diego County area.


Roystonea regia Roystonea regia
Roystonea regia Roystonea regia
Roystonea regia Roystonea regia

 


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

  

CHAMAEDOREA COSTARICANA
ONE OF THE BEST BAMBOO PALMS


EASY TO GROW - A GREAT INTERIOR PALM 
TEN DAY SPECIAL BOTH 15 & 25 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 five photos the 15g size followed by the 25g size in the following five photos.  These are followed by mature garden plants.  If you are interested in mail order, select a 5 gallon plant (not shown) which is easier to ship.  BTW, this species is fairly difficult to find.  BTW, we are very limited on our 25 gallon size - shown in photos below #6 - #10.   

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $265
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $240

REGULAR PRICE HUGE 25 GALLON $725
TEN DAY SPECIAL SALE PRICE 25 GALLON $645


Chamaedorea costaricana 15  gallon Chamaedorea costaricana 15  gallon Chamaedorea costaricana 15  gallon
Chamaedorea costaricana 15  gallon Chamaedorea costaricana 15  gallon  
Chamaedorea costaricana 25 gallon Chamaedorea costaricana 25 gallon Chamaedorea costaricana 25 gallon
Chamaedorea costaricana 25 gallon Chamaedorea costaricana 25 gallon  
Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana

 

VARIEGATED RHAPIS EXCELSA
EXOTIC - TEND TO BE SMALL, MINIATURE PALMS

 


DON'T LIKE TOO MUCH NITROGEN
LIMITED SUPPLIES AVAILABLE - NEVER INEXPENSIVE
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON ANY VARIEGATED RHAPIS WE HAVE

This is another post to remind readers that we still offer a good supply of the highly coveted variegated Rhapis excelsa.  Known as the "Gems of the Orient", these striking plants typically have yellow or white variegation on green leaves.  Most plants at mature size are three to six feet.  There are many exotic varieties - most popular in Japan where affluent collectors compete to obtain the most striking plants.  Propagation is by divisions only.  So, one must mother plants for divisions so you'd have a plant to sell. 

The plant leaflet photos below are an assortment of our Nursery plants.  The variegation consists of very narrow bands of yellow on green.  They are sort of hard to see here.  On any given leaflets there are lots of these narrow, subtle stripes.  Sizes available are 5 & 15 gallon and maybe a few larger.

Contact us if you are interested in getting one.  BTW, these are never inexpensive plants.  And, they are all different.  The variegation seems to be different from leaf to leaf on all varieties.  Prices on our 5g start at about $150 and the 15g at $450 or more.  IMPORTANT: These variegated Rhapis essentially want no fertilizer.  Fertilizer tends to drown out the variegation with nitrogen.  As we have an injector system on all our plants, it’s very difficult to “starve” these plants.  You’ll probably be better at growing them than us as you can easily avoid giving them fertilizer.

A 15 gallon plant is shown in the first six photos with close-ups of the variegation on some leaves.  Following are photographs of plants we still have at the Nursery or have sold from the Nursery.

TEN DAY SPECIAL:  15% OFF REGULAR PRICE ON ANY VARIEGATED RHAPIS THAT'S FOR SALE AND IN STOCK


Variegated Rhapis excelsa 15g Variegated Rhapis excelsa 15g Variegated Rhapis excelsa 15g
Variegated Rhapis excelsa 15g Variegated Rhapis Variegated Rhapis excelsa 15g
Variegated Rhapis Variegated Rhapis Variegated Rhapis
Variegated Rhapis excelsa Variegated Rhapis excelsa Variegated Rhapis excelsa

  

BISMARCKIA SPECIES MAYOTTE ISLAND
THE RARE GREEN BISMARCKIA

YOU NEVER SEE THEM AVAILABLE



BISMARCKIA BUT WITHOUT THE BLUE COLOR
VERY ATTRACTIVE, LARGER FLAT GREEN FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLD AND LARGE 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.  The 11th photo below is by TS at RPS and the last three photos below are by M.F. with two plants in the San Diego area.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $295
TEN DAY SPECIAL SALE PRICE 15G $255

Note:  Of course, we also carry a good assortment of the classic blue Bismarcia!


Bismarckia mayotte island Bismarckia mayotte island Bismarckia mayotte island
Bismarckia mayotte island Bismarckia mayotte island Bismarckia mayotte island
Bismarckia mayotte island Bismarckia mayotte island Bismarckia mayotte island
Bismarckia mayotte island Bismarckia mayotte island TS RPS Bismarckia mayotte island
Bismarckia mayotte island by MF Bismarckia mayotte island by MF Bismarckia mayotte island by MF

 

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 $220

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

BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII
THE MADAGASCAR PLATEAU COCONUT PALM

 

MEDIUM SIZED TRUNK
VERY SOUGHT AFTER - FOR FULL SUN ALONG THE COAST

TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 15 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 15 gallon plants on a ten day Special.  This size is shown in the first six photos below.  We also have 5 gallon available (see below) and much larger sizes. 

REGULAR PRICE15 GALLON SIZE $265
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $235

Limited supplies available.  The habitat photo is by TS at RPS. 


Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g
Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g Beccariophoenix alfredii 15g
Beccariophoenix alfredii TS RPS  

 

TRITHRINAX SCHIZOPHYLLA
THE CARANDILLA PALM


BLUE-GREEN SUCKERING FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE


This rare and hard to find species of South American fan palm was previously known as Trithrinax biflabellata.  But, the latter was later found to be spineless and the two were given separate species status.  It is native to Argentina, Paraguay and Bolivia.  T. schizophylla is definitely a spiny palm with long needle-like spines on the trunk.  It is not quite as blue as campestris and is usually a suckering palm but sometimes is single trunk.  Mature height is six to fifteen feet.  Although the leaf is a rigid leaf, the leaflet tips are softer than the pungent T. campestris.  Leaf color is blue-green, not nearly as blue as campestris.  It is a very cold hardy species that tolerates temperatures down to at least 18 degrees F.  On sale are very old, outdoor grown 15g plants.  I think we've been growing these for about 12 to 14 years.  It likes full sun and loves heat.  It is possible to mail order this larger 15g size but it'd take a large box. 

REGULAR PRICE OLD 15G PLANTS $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE 15G $215


As usual, mention our Blog when ordering to get this price.  The habitat photo is by Juan Pech. 

 
Trithrinax schizophylla Trithrinax schizophylla Trithrinax schizophylla
Trithrinax schizophylla Trithrinax schizophylla Trithrinax schizophylla by Juan Pech

 

CHAMAEDOREA RADICALIS
TRUE TRUNK-LESS, DWARF FORM



NEVER GETS OVER SIX FEET TALL
SHADE PALM - QUITE COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 7 GALLON SIZE

Previously I discussed the trunking form of this species.  What I'm showing today is the true dwarf form that never forms a trunk and never gets over six feet tall.  It is native to Mexico.  It grows in filtered light but can tolerate some sun along the coast.  Compared to the trunking form, you'll note the leaflets are darker green and wider.  Blossoms often protrude above the leaves when it's in flower.  Cold hardiness is the upper teens F.  It grows great in cooler areas like the SF Bay area.  We have only a few 7 gallon plants (shown first five photos below) which we're putting on sale.  These can be mail ordered.

REGULAR PRICE 7 GALLON $185
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE $155


Chamaedorea radicalis dwarf form 7g Chamaedorea radicalis dwarf form 7g Chamaedorea radicalis dwarf form
Chamaedorea radicalis dwarf 7g Chamaedorea radicalis dwarf form Chamaedorea radicalis dwarf
Chamaedorea radicalis dwarf form Chamaedorea radicalis dwarf form Chamaedorea radicalis dwarf form

   

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 special  Growth rate on this species is good.  This species is highly recommended. 

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

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

Kentiopsis oliviformis 5g Kentiopsis oliviformis 5g Kentiopsis oliviformis
Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis 5g Kentiopsis oliviformis
Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis

    

HOWEA BELMOREANA
THE SENTRY OR UMBRELLA PALM


ANOTHER PALM FROM LORD HOW ISLAND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

There is a second endemic species of Howea on Lord Howe Island.  This is Howea belmoreana.  Common names used to describe this species include the Sentry Palm, the Belmore Palm, the "Kentia Palm", and even the Umbrella Palm.  However, the name "Kentia Palm" is usually used to refer to the H. forsteriana.  Howea belmoreana comes from a higher elevation in its natural habitat compared to the H. forsteriana.  And, given this fact, one might expect that this species is a little more cold tolerant.  Most growers have found this to be true, tolerating temperatures to about 25 degrees F.

The main difference between this palm and the standard Kentia is that the crown of leaves are quite curved pointing downwards toward the grown.  This gives the crown an overall umbrella appearance.  Like the H. forsteriana, the Belmore Palm doesn't like full sun if away from the Coast and is rather slow growing.  Most find it to be slower than the regular Kentia Palm.  Culture is similar and there is little data on the transplant of this species, but I suspect it will perform about the same as the standard Kentia.

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


Please mention this Special at the time of purchase.

 
Howea belmoreana 5g  Howea belmoreana 5g  Howea bemoreana 5g 
Howea bemoreana 5g  Howea belmoreana 5g  Howea bemloreana 5g 
Howea belmoreana  Howea belmoreana  Howea belmoreana 

 

HOWEA BELMOREANA
THE SENTRY OR UMBRELLA PALM



ANOTHER PALM FROM LORD HOWE ISLAND
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE IN TODAY'S POST

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


Easy to mail order.  BTW, folks are growing this species in the SF Bay area.


Howea belmoreana band Howea belmoreana band Howea belmoreana band
Howea belmoreana band Howea belmoreana band Howea belmoreana band
Howea belmoreana Howea belmoreana Howea belmoreana garden

  

DYPSIS PRESTONIANA
VERY RARE SINGLE TRUNK PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

 

PLUMOSA LEAVES – COLORFUL CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON SIZE

This highly sought-after, single trunk species from Madagascar is very beautiful.  It falls into the category of a “must have ” species.  This species comes from mid-elevation in southern Madagascar and is proving to be a great species for Southern California.  It has a height of over 30 feet, a thick trunk that is about 12 to sixteen inches thick with prominent rings, plumose upright leaves and a colored crown shaft.  The crown shaft has white silver, orange and black colors.  Cold tolerance appears to be into the mid-twenties but is not yet worked out.  Mature trees tolerate full sun along the coast.  The mature photos are by TS at RPS.  One photo is c/o John Dransfield, Kew Botanical Garden in London.  We’re putting 2 gallon plants on Special.

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

Remember to mention this Special. These can be mail ordered.

Dypsis prestoniana Dypsis prestoniana Dypsis prestoniana
Dypsis prestoniana Dypsis prestoniana Dypsis prestoniana
Dypsis prestoniana TS RPS Dypsis prestoniana jd kew bot garden Dypsis prestoniana TS RPS

 

DYPSIS LEPTOCHEILOS
THE TEDDY BEAR PALM

 

RUST COLORED CROWN SHAFT
THIN SILVER RINGED TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE


This great palm is known for its rusty-brown/red crown shaft that is quite fuzzy to the touch.  It therefore has its common name the Teddy Bear Palm.  It is not a huge palm, usually getting up to about twenty-five feet with a six inch thick trunk.  Trunk color is silver with prominent rings.  Leaf color is green.  Right on the coast it takes full sun easily.  Far inland would require part day sun or filtered light.  Cold tolerance is down to about 25 degrees F.  This is one of the most popular palms around.  I’m offering our one gallon size on special.  This size is quite large for its pot and definitely needs repotting soon. 

REGULAR PRICE LARGE ONE GALLON $70
TEN DAY PRICE LARGE ONE GALLON SIZE $60



Dypsis leptocheilos 1g Dypsis leptocheilos 1g Dypsis leptocheilos 1g
Dypsis leptocheilos 1g Dypsis leptocheilos 1g Dypsis leptocheilos 1g
Dypsis leptocheilos Dypsis leptocheilos Dypsis leptocheilos

 

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

 

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 $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE HUGE BANDS $55

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

 

DYPSIS DECARYI
THE TRIANGLE PALM

MEDIUM MATURE HEIGHT - COLD HARDY INTO MID-TWENTIES
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 $65

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $55

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


Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi band Dypsis decaryi
Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi Dypsis decaryi

 

ENCEPHALARTOS TRANSVENOSUS
LARGE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD SPECIES

GREEN LEAVES - QUICK GROWING
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE


Shown here below is a good sized plant of a green South African cycad that, in the ground, makes a large and magnificent plant.  Encephalartos transvenosus gets enormous with trunks over 20 feet tall.  Leaves are six to eight feet long and leaflets are shiny, dark green with some glaucous faint hairs on the leaflets.  So, it makes a big show.  The plants on special below are 3 to 4 year old band size.  They can be easily shipped within the U.S.  See first six photos.  Be aware that this makes a good sized cycad and needs room to grow.  This is a full sun species along the coast with a cold tolerance is 22 degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE THIS BAND SIZE $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $60

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


Encephalartos transvenosus band Encephalartos transvenosus band Encephalartos transvenosus band
Encephalartos transvenosus band Encephalartos transvenosus band Encephalartos transvenosus band
Encephalartos transvenosus BY MR Encephalartos transvenosus Encephalartos transvenosus MR

 

DIOON EDULE
BLUE QUERETERO VARIETY

 

RARE FORM - SUN LOVING BLUE CYCAD
COLD HARDY INTO THE UPPER TEENS F.
GETS BLUE COLOR IN HOT SUN
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 1 to 1.5 inches.  The bands are shown in the first five photos below. These are hard to find and easy to mail order.  Last photo by MARK MASON.
 
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  
Dioon queretaro by Dioon queretero by MARKM090606

  

CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIS
RARE GREEN CHINESE CYCAD
EXCELLENT COLD HARDINESS

 

MEDIUM SIZE MATURE
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT AS SHOWN

This is a rare green cycad from China.  It is different than the Sago Palm - smaller and, to me, more attractive.  Leaf color is green to blue green.  It tolerates coastal sun and is cold hardy into the upper teens F.  Some feel it's one of the most cold hardy cycads in the world - even better than the Sago Palm.  Mature height should be about eight feet.  They can sucker, but much less than the Sago.  They also take up less garden space than the Sago Palm.  Leaflets are narrow without armor except on the tips (pointed).  

The citrus pot shown in the first five photos has a caudex of 3.5 inches.  We also have larger and smaller plants for sale.  We are putting plants of this size (3 to 4 inch caudex) on special.  These can be easily mail ordered.  The first to purchase of course will get the larger plants.


REGULAR PRICE PLANTS WITH THIS SIZE CAUDEX $350
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $295

This size can be shipped or delivered.  Remember, mention this Special when you purchase.  The sixth photo shows our 15 gallon size of larger plants.


CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIS CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIS CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIS
CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIS CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIS CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIS
CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIS CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIS

KAHILI GINGER
HEDYCHIUM GARDNERIANUM

 

MEDIUM SIZED -  GREEN LEAVES
SUPER FRAGRANT BLOSSOM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

This suckering green Ginger is quick and easy to grow.  It can take full coastal sun or part sun.  Leaves are green and, unlike Shell Ginger, the blossoms are super fragrant - and have a very nice smell.  Plants typically don't get over over 7 feet tall and have a tropical look.  These 15g plants are good size with multiple tubers and near blossoming age.  You can see the health of these plants here.  The garden photo is c/o the Queensland Govt. website. 

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

Just mention this Special for your discount when you purchase. 


Kahili Ginger Kahili Ginger Kahili Ginger
Kahili Ginger Kahili Ginger Kahili Ginger
Kahili Ginger Kahili Ginger Kahili Ginger Govt. Queensland, AU

 

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 $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL 3 & 5 GALLON $75


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  

 

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.  Of note, only a few left.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE 15 GALLON $185


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

 

ALOCASIA SUMO
AN EXOTIC ELEPHANT EAR WITH SOME COLD HARDINESS

DARK STEMS - PURPLE VEINS ON THE LEAF'S UNDERSIDE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON PLANTS

This exciting and super attractive Alocasia hybrid is getting very sought after.  It has purple stems and rather large upright leaves that are green with a purple hue and purple veins on the underside.  It is a cross between A. portora and A. purple cloak.  It is said to grow in zone 7B and even being grown by folks in the SF Bay area.  Mature height is six feet or a bit more.  It can take partial coastal sun or perhaps full sun right near the Ocean.  These plants will be double their size by next summer.  The first six photos shown the 5 gallon on sale.  I'm also showing a 15 gallon which we also have available. 

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $80

Alocasia sumo 5g Alocasia sumo 5g Alocasia sumo 5g
Alocasia sumo 5g Alocasia sumo 5g Alocasia sumo 5g
Alocasia sumo 15g Alocasia sumo back of leaf Alocasia sumo

 

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. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $195
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

 

HELICONIA SCHIEDIANA
BANANA-LIKE SUCKERING TROPICAL PLANT



ORANGE OR RED/YELLOW UPRIGHT BLOSSOMS

TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 5 GALLON SIZE


All of our Heliconia are grown from rhizomes from existing and flowering plants in Southern California.  This results in large, very strong growing plants as shown here.  Heliconia schiediana can take sun or part sun, gets to a height of sever to eight feet, and flowers freely in the summer.  It is very cold hardy.  Even if a hard freeze knocks down the leaves, plants usually come back vigorously in the spring.  Flowers are red/yellow or orange/yellow.  We’re putting the 5 gallon size on special.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $80

The seventh photo is of a 15 gallon nursery plant.  The blossom photo below is by TS at RPS.  The last photo shows Heliconia plants in a garden.

Heliconia schiediana Heliconia schiediana Heliconia schiediana
Heliconia schiediana Heliconia schiediana Heliconia schiediana
Heliconia schiediana Heliconia schiediana blossom TS RPS Heliconia


                             

                               MONDAY, 23 SEPTEMBER, 2024

  

NEARLY FIFTY DESIRABLE AND DIFFERENT PALMS

THAT MANY OF YOU CAN GROW!

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA STANDOUTS


MOST ARE COASTAL SUN LOVING SPECIES
MOST AVAILABLE AT OUR NURSERY
TEN DAY SPECIAL


Below you will find forty-eight named species or genera of palms that have been successfully grown by many in Southern California.  And, there are many more palms that may do well for you but are not shown here.  Many of the palms below may also do well in other areas like warmer parts of Northern California, Southern Texas, some Gulf States and Central & South Florida.  I've selected a variety of both fan and feather palms.  Some are suckering species.  These are presented in random order showing a mature specimen so you can see what any give species will look like when large.  I hope you enjoy this presentation.  We have most of them for sale.   To read a more comprehensive presentation with culture information see:

GREAT PALMS FOR THE GARDEN

TEN DAY SPECIAL -
10% OFF REGULAR PRICE
ANY OF THESE PALMS BELOW - ANY SIZE



Dypsis lutescens
Dypsis lutescens
Bismarckia nobilis
Bismarckia nobilis
Roystonea regia
Roystonea regia
Dypsis leptocheilos
Dypsis leptocheilos
Chamaedorea hooperiana
Chamaedorea hooperiana
Pritchardia lowreyana
Pritchardia species
Archontophoenix purpurea
Archontophoenix purpurea
Jubaea chilensis
Jubaea chilensis 
Livistona chinensis
Livistona chinensis 
Caryota gigas
Caryota gigas 
Acoelorrhaphe wrightii
Acoelorrhaphe wrightii 
Sabal causiarum
Sabal causiarum 
Rhapis humilis
Rhapis humilis 
Ravenea glauca
Raenea glauca 
Brahea armata
Brahea armata 
Parajubaea torallyi
Parajubaea torallyi 
Coconut Queen JI
Coconut Queen, Syagrus
Phoenix sylvestris
Phoenix sylvestris 
Howea forsteriana
Howeas forsteriana 
Hedyscepe canterburyana
Hedyscepe canterburyana 
Laccospadix australasica
Laccospadix australasica 
Arenga engleri
Arenga engleri
Hyophorbe verschafeltii
Hyophorbe verschafeltii
Coccothrinax argentata
Coccothrinax argentata
Dypsis decaryi
Dypsis decaryi
Dypsis decipiens
Dypsis decipiens
Trithrinax acanthicoma
Trithrinax acanthicoma
Chamaedorea tepejilote
Chamaedorea tepejilote
Rhopalostylis baueri
Rhopalostylis baueri
Dictyosperma album
Dictyosperma albumm
Howea belmoreana
 Howea belmoreana
Chamaedorea costaricana
Chamaedorea costaricana 
Phoenix rupicola
Phoenix rupicola 
Butia capitata
Butia capitata
Kentiopsis oliviformis
Kentiopsis oliviformis
Chambeyronia hookeri
Chambeyronia hookeri
Pinanga coronata
Pinanga coronata 
Rhopalostylis sapida
Rhopalostylis sapida 
Chambeyronia macrocarpa
Chambeyronia macrocarpa 
Veitchia arecina
 Veitchia arecina
Beccariophoenix species
 Beccariophoenix species
Archontophoenix alexandrae
 Archontophoenix alexandrae
Sabal riverside
 Sabal riverside
Dypsis onilahensis
 Dypsis onilahensis
Laccospadix australasica
 Laccospadix australasica
Burretiokentia koghiensis
 Burretiokentia koghiensis
Chamaedoea plumosa care of PalmPedia
 Chamaedoerea plumosa
Pritchardia martii
 Pritchardia species

 

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 $245
 TEN DAY SPECIAL15 GALLON $215

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

 

TRITHRINAX SCHIZOPHYLLA
THE CARANDILLA PALM


BLUE-GREEN SUCKERING FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE


This rare and hard to find species of South American fan palm was previously known as Trithrinax biflabellata.  But, the latter was later found to be spineless and the two were given separate species status.  It is native to Argentina, Paraguay and Bolivia.  T. schizophylla is definitely a spiny palm with long needle-like spines on the trunk.  It is not quite as blue as campestris and is usually a suckering palm but sometimes is single trunk.  Mature height is six to fifteen feet.  Although the leaf is a rigid leaf, the leaflet tips are softer than the pungent T. campestris.  Leaf color is blue-green, not nearly as blue as campestris.  It is a very cold hardy species that tolerates temperatures down to at least 18 degrees F.  On sale are very old, outdoor grown 15g plants.  I think we've been growing these for about 12 to 14 years.  It likes full sun and loves heat.  It is possible to mail order this larger 15g size but it'd take a large box. 

REGULAR PRICE OLD 15G PLANTS $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE 15G $215


As usual, mention our Blog when ordering to get this price.  The habitat photo is by Juan Pech. 

 
Trithrinax schizophylla Trithrinax schizophylla Trithrinax schizophylla
Trithrinax schizophylla Trithrinax schizophylla Trithrinax schizophylla by Juan Pech

 

CHAMAEDOREA GLAUCIFOLIA
SUPER SIMILAR TO CHAMAEDOREA PLUMOSA (BABY QUEEN)



TAKES A FAIR AMOUNT OF SUN – SINGLE STEM, THIN TRUNK

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON MULTIPLES

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.  Along the coast, it will tolerate full sun or part sun.  This is quite attractive and typically very prominent.  Otherwise, you would mistake the two.  Leaves are quite “fluffy” and leaflets are narrow, green in color.  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.  The 15 gallon size which we’re putting on sale are very nicely sized and overhead. This size is too large for mail order.  But, we have smaller easy-to-ship plants as well.  It is a durable species and seem exempt from fungal problems that can plague C. plumosa.  Cold hardiness is about 25 degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON SIZED MULTIPLES $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $215


Chamaedorea glaucifolias 15g Chamaedorea glaucifolias 15g Chamaedorea glaucifolias 15g
Chamaedorea glaucifolias 15g Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedora glaucifolia 15g
Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia

  

SYNECANTHUS FIBROSA
THE JELLYBEAN PALM
OPPORTUNITY TO GET OLD MATURE SIZE PALM



A FEW 20 YEAR OLD PLANTS FOR SALE
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON A FEW 15 GALLON PLANTS

This single trunk pinnate palm is native to various areas of Central America.  It has a thin ringed trunk with leaves that are about five feet long.  Leaflets are wide with irregular leaflets width and spacing.  Color is green.  Flowers protrude away from the stem with attractive yellow seeds.  It is a filtered light species.  There is another suckering species in this genus, S. warscewiczianus.  Cold tolerance is down to about a freeze or a bit less.  Mature height is about twelve to fifteen feet.  The plants we have on sale are super old (20 to 25 years) and are shown below in the first six photos.  I can pretty much guarantee you that you'll not find comparable plants anywhere in the western U.S.  I don’t normally have these for sale (wanted to keep them) so they are not listed in my availability list and I’m now selling the last ones on a Ten Day Special price. The plants on sale are shown in the first two rows of photos. The third row of photos is of palms now sold but were flowering size. The last photo is a fruiting mature palm c/o Palmpedia.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE 15G (ONLY HAVE #2 OF THEM) $395
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE THIS SIZE $340

 

Synecanthus fibrosa 15g   Synecanthus fibrosa 15g   Synecanthus fibrosa 15g  
Synecanthus fibrosa 15g   Synecanthus fibrosa 15g   Synecanthus fibrosa 15g  
Synecanthus fibrosa  Synecanthus fibrosa  Synecanthus fibrosa 
  Synecanthus fibrosa by PalmPedia  

 

LIVISTONA SARIBUS
LARGE, DARK & HOOKED SPINES



MEDIUM TO TALL FAN PALM

TEN DAY SPECIAL SALE 15 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 15g on sale are shown below.  Shipping is possible.  The last photo is by John Volk.

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


Livistona saribus 15g Livistona saribus 15g Livistona saribus 15g
Livistona saribus 15g Livistona saribus 15g Livistona saribus 15g
Livistona saribus Livistona saribus Livistona saribus

 

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 $155
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $125 

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

 

SYAGRUS OLERACEA
THIN TRUNK & TALL SOLITARY PALM



PLUMOSE LEAVES - NOT AS TALL AS QUEEN PALM

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This species of single trunk pinnate palm is native to Brazil and can get to heights of fifty to sixty feet.  It can be grown in Southern California and is a smaller version of the Queen Palm.   Leaves are green and plumose.  It wants full sun and is cold hardy into the mid to upper 20's F.  One special are nice 5 gallon plants, still with their juvenile foliage.  They are presently larger than shown here.

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

Remember:  mention this Blog Special at the time of purchase.  Last photo by John Demott, FL - via the I.P.S.

Syagrus oleracea  Syagrus oleracea  Syagrus oleracea 
Syagrus oleracea  Syagrus oleracea  Syagrus oleracea 
Syagrus oleracea  Syagrus oleracea by John DeMott IPS   

 

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

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 5g size on special - shown in first six photos.  This size is about five to six years old.  Yes, they are slow growing!  We only have a few left this size.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $120

Remember: Mention this Special for this discount.


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

 

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 $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS RARE PALM IN 2 GALLON SIZE $70


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

 

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.

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


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

 

BRAHEA ARMATA
THE MEXICAN BLUE FAN PALM
BLUE HESPER PALM



VERY BLUE COLORED LEAVES – VERY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON STARTER 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.  This species is also very drought tolerant.  The plants we’re putting on special should turn blue with age and full sun.  This size on sale is shown in the first six photos, are about 2 perhaps 3 years old with three or four strap leaves.  Within a few more leaves they'll become a classic palmate leaf.  These would be easy to mail order. 

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

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. 


Brahea armata 1g  Brahea armata 1g  Brahea armata 1g
Brahea armata 1g  Brahea armata 1g  Brahea armata 1g
Brahea armata Brahea armata Brahea armata

 

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 DASY SPECIAL PRICE 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

  

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.  Mature palm photo by TS - RPS.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $55


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

  

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 $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $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

 

ENCEPHALARTOS MUCHII
BLUE TO BLUE-GREEN CYCAD


  RARE AND VERY ATTRACTIVE  CYCAD
TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD 2 GALLON SIZE



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 and I've shown several photos here to demonstrate this.  I've seen specimens that are as blue as an Encephalartos horridus


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 two gallon on sale are a good, strong two gallon plant with caudexes average 2 to 3 inches.  They came from parents domestically that both had extreme blue color.  These can be mail ordered but not outside the U.S.   Note:  for those we have left, they are a bit larger than shown here.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 2G PLANTS $185
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE PLANTS $160


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


Encephalartos munchii blue Encephalartos munchii blue Encephalartos munchii blue
Encephalartos munchii blue Encephalartos munchii blue Encephalartos munchii blue
Encephalartos munchii blue Encephalartos munchii blue Encephalartos munchii blue

 

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

 

MALE IN CONE - 15 GALLON ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII
ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR CYCADS WE SELL
LOVES COASTAL SUN AND HEAT
 


KNOWN MATURE MALE CYCAD – READY FOR THE GARDEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD

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 a nice specimen of this species that has thrown a male cone.  It’s in a 15 gallon container with a caudex of 9 inches.  We have other 15g with larger and smaller stem sizes.  The sale price of this actual plant is given below. 

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 G WITH A CAUDEX OF 9 INCHES $1350
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON AS DESCRIBED $1125


This plant can be mail ordered, weather permitting.  


 
Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 9 inches male in cone  Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 9 inches male in cone  Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 9 inches male in cone 
Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 9 inches male in cone  Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 9 inches male in cone  Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 9 inches male in cone 
Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 9 inches male in cone  Encephalartos lehmannii  Encephalartos lehmannii habitat MR 

 

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

 

DIOON ANGUSTIFOLIUM
THIN LEAFLET GREENT TO BLUE-GREEN CYCAD
LIKE SUN AND HEAT

 

QUITE COLD HARDY - TO UPER TEENS F.
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS CONING SIZED MATURE CYCAD

This cycad species is from Mexico and is known for its very thin leaflets.  You will see this cycad as a single trunk plant or as a cluster with multiple stems.  The overall crown size is not large, typically with a spread of four feet.  A plant with a caudex of 12 to 18 inches is a very old plant.  Cold tolerance is definitely into the low 20’s F. and perhaps it’ll take into the upper teens F.  It likes full, hot sun.  This would be a good sun species of cycads for those who live in a colder climate.  It is closely related to Dioon edule.   This species is also ideal where an enthusiast needs a plant that will not get tall and needs to fit into a smaller area.  The plant on Special is in a 24 inch box and has a mature caudex 9 inches wide and 14 inches tall with a four inch pup.  Estimated age is at least 25 years.  It’ll not get much bigger after planting.

REGULAR PRICE THIS 24 INCH MATURE SPECIMEN $2500
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD AS DESCIBED $1800


Dioon angustifolium 24 in box, caudex 9 x 14 inches with 4 inch pup Dioon angustifolium 24 in box, caudex 9 x 14 inches with 4 inch pup Dioon angustifolium 24 in box, caudex 9 x 14 inches with 4 inch pup
Dioon angustifolium 24 in box, caudex 9 x 14 inches with 4 inch pup Dioon angustifolium 25g Dioon angustifolium leaves
Dioon angustifolium Dioon angustifolium

 

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 special right now of about 35% off regular price.  We can get more from this collection.

REGULAR PRICE FOR THESE 50 YEAR OLD SPECIMEN 24 INCH BOX SIZE $3400
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE ON EITHER OF THESE TWO SPECIMEN CYCADS
$2200
EACH
TEN DAY SPECIAL IF YOU GET THREE OR MORE $1900

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  
MACROZAMIA MOOREI Macrozamia moorei garden MACROZAMIA MOOREI

 

MONSTERA DELICIOSA
THE SPLIT LEAF OR SWISS CHEESE PHILODENDRON


A CLIMBING PLANT
GETS LARGE LEAVES WITH OPEN SPLITS
20% OFF ANY PLANT WE HAVE THIS SPECIES

This climbing, large leaf Philodendron is native to southern Mexico, Central America - all the way to Panama.   As a climbing plant, it grows well up into overhead trees and, with age, can get leaves that are 2 to  feet long.  It prefers filtered light or a bit of sun.  It also tolerates a freeze.  I'm showing you an older Nursery plant below to show you how the leaves are starting to get long.  Leaves are green and divided as shown below.  We're putting any plant this species on sale.  We mostly have smaller than shown here.  Also, in short supply so we could sell out. 

20% OFF ANY PLANT THIS SPECIES FOR TEN DAYS

Monstera deliciosa Monstera deliciosa Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa Monstera deliciosa

 

ALOCASIA SERENDIPITY
AFRICAN MASK HYBRID VARIETY WITH GREEN-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.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $95
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

     

ASSORTED VRIESEAS HYBRIDS
BY JOHN ARDEN
EXTREMELY RARE TROPICAL PLANTS



FILTERED LIGHT PLANTS
SPECTACULAR BLOSSOMS
TEN DAY SPECIAL ALL PLANTS AVAILABLE - SOME SHOWN HERE


Several years I offered a good assortment of rare Vriesea hybrids done by the late John Arden.  John was a worldwide famous Bromeliad expert who lived in this area. His hybrid Bromeliads, especially the Vriesea hybrids, were coveted by many.  Of this collection, we still have some left.  Through a friend, I am again able to offer some of his hybrids and, this time, at a discount.  Vrieseas are known not only for their interesting foliage but also for colorful  blossoms that protrude well above the plant.  These would be fairly easy to email anywhere in the U.S.  Most Vrieseas want filtered light and are cold hardy into the mid to upper twenties F.  Of note, we have sold many of the plants from this collection.

REGULAR PRICE PLANTS SHOWN BELOW $75 - $100
TEN DAY SPECIAL PLANTS BELOW $65 - $85


This special only lasts ten days and I have many of the plants shown.  These will sell out quickly.


Vriesea amazing jade x evelyn
   
Vriesea amazing jade x evelyn Vriesea amazing jade x evelyn Vriesea amazing jade x evelyn

Vriesea California gold x V-400
   
Vriesea California gold x V-400 Vriesea California gold x V-400 Vriesea California gold x V-400

Vriesea concerto x sunset
   
Vriesea concerto x sunset Vriesea concerto x sunset Vriesea concerto x sunset

Vriesea hybrid John Arden
   
Vriesea hybrid John Arden Vriesea hybrid John Arden Vriesea hybrid John Arden

Vriesea hybrid John Arden 2
   
Vriesea hybrid John Arden 2 Vriesea hybrid John Arden 2 Vriesea hybrid John Arden

Vriesea inspiration
   
Vriesea inspiration Vriesea inspiration Vriesea inspiration

Vriesea mandy
hybrid
   
Vriesea mandy hybrid Vriesea mandy hybrid Vriesea mandy hybrid

Vriesea mandy x gradata x marcella
   
Vriesea mandy x gradata x marcella Vriesea mandy x gradata x marcella Vriesea mandy x gradata x marcella

Vriesea maroon shadow
hybrid
   
Vriesea maroon shadow hybrid Vriesea maroon shadow hybrid Vriesea maroon shadow hybrid

Vriesea maroon shadow x golden radiance
   
Vriesea maroon shadow x golden radiance Vriesea maroon shadow x golden radiance Vriesea maroon shadow x golden radiance

Vriesea melago negro x V brassicooides
   
Vriesea melago negro x V brassicooides ( Vriesea melago negro x V brassicooides ( Vriesea melago negro x V brassicooides (

Vriesea sensation x barbarosa
   
Vriesea sensation x barbarosa Vriesea sensation x barbarosa Vriesea sensation x barbarosa

Vriesea sunburst
   
Vriesea sunburst Vriesea sunburst Vriesea sunburst

Vriesea van ackeri x fenestralis x concerto
   
Vriesea van ackeri x fenestralis x concerto Vriesea van ackeri x fenestralis x concerto Vriesea van ackeri x fenestralis x concerto

 

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  

 

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.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $50
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $40


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

 

 

                              FRIDAY, 20 SEPTEMBER, 2024

CHRISTMAS DAY - PALM & TROPICAL PLANT EXCURSION


AROUND SAN DIEGO, CA
UNUSUAL SPECIES - TREES IN FLOWER
LOTS OF DIFFERENT PALMS


A few years ago my wife and I were sort of bored come mid-Christmas day.  No family visitors - All by ourselves.  So, off we went to do one of our favorite things.  That is - driving around looking for unusual plant species.  We do this from time to time.  Our local Royal poinciana has been forming mature seed pods, so that was a great starting point.  From there we went to Balboa Park to photograph some nice palms.  Then, area by area we worked our way to Mission Bay Park near San Diego Bay.  I'm sharing some photos of great species that may interest you.  I particular focused on Brahea edulis (which does super well here) and a stand of Livistona decipiens (decora) in fruit.  Included are some nice succulent trees and some flowering trees still with blossoms in December.  Also shown below are a few nice palm species.  All in alphabetical order.  This is just meant to be a photographic presentation.

Archontophoenix sp. probably purpurea
Archontophoenix purpurea, Balboa Park
Bauhinia variegate in blossom december
Bauhinia variegata in blossom
Bauhinia variegata blossm pink December
Bauhinia variegata in blossom
Brachychiton rupestris SD
Brachychiton rupestrisut
Brachychiton rupestris SD
Brachychiton rupestris
Brahea armata juvenile sd
Brahea armata juvenile
Brahea edulis SD
Brahea edulis, fruiting
Brahea edulis SD
Brahea edulis, fruiting
Brahea edulis SD trunk
Brahea edulis, close up of rough trunk
Caryota gigas juvenile
Caryota gigas, not mature size
Caryota gigas leaf
Caryota gigas leaf
Cordyline fruiticosa red full sun SD
Coryline fruiticosa in full sun
Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma
Crinum amabile - Queen Emma Lily
Crinum amabile
Crinum amabile - Queen Emma Lily
Dasylirion longissimum
Dasylirion longissimum
Dracena draco
Dracena draco
Dracena draco fruit
Dracena draco fruit
Dracena draco
Dracena draco
Dypsis lutescens
Dypsis lutescens Balboa Park S.D.
Howea forsteriana triple
Howea forsteriana triple - the Kentia Palm
Hibiscus tree pink
Hibiscus in December flower
Hibiscus tree pink
Hibiscus in December flower
Hyphanae species
Hyphanae species in local garden
Jubaea chilensis
Jubaea chilensis
Jubaea chilensis
Jubaea chilensis
Livistona decipiens decora
Livistona decipiesn - decora
Livistona decipiens decora
Livistona decipiesn - decora
Livistona decipiens decora
Livistona decipiesn - decora
Livistona decipiens - decora
Livistona decipiens
Livistona decipiens decora
Livistona decipiesn - decora
Papaya in fruit December
Papaya with December fruit
Papaya in fruit
Papaya with December fruit
Phoenix reclinata
Phoenix reclinata
Phoenix reclinata
Phoenix reclinata
Sabal palmetto
Sabal aplmetto
Sabal palmetto
Sabal palmetto
Staghorn Fern in tree
Staghorn Fern in tree
Staghorn Fern in tree
Staghorn Fern in tree
Trithrinax acanthicoma
Trithrinax acanthicoma
Trithrinax acanthicoma
Trithrinax acanthicoma
Trithrinax acanthicoma
Trithrinax acanthicoma
Tropical garden
Tropical Garden JW
Veitchia species
Veitchia species
Veitchia species
Veitchia species
Veitchia species in fruit
Veitchia species flower

Washingtonia robusta, old and tall along street
Washingtonia stand in distance
Washingtonia robusta telephoto from 2 miles
Mitzi with Jubaea
Mitzi, my wife & palm spotter next to Jubaea

 
 
NEW ARRIVAL THIS WEEK
ASSORTED COLORFUL BROMELIADS OF ALL TYPES


MOST SUN GROWN
EASY AND COLORUL ADDITION TO GARDEN


This week we got in a huge private collection of Bromeliads.  This includes well over 100 plants, many mature clumps.  Plants heights/sizes range from smaller to pretty large - up to three feet.  Almost all are different species or varieties.  Such collections always come from private collections where collectors cull out the best varieties for their gardens.  You'll never see these varieties at depot stores or most nurseries.  All are collectable and colorful.  With this collection, the enthusiast is a friend of mine and an excellent grower.  Unfortunately, he's moving to Idaho where the plants cannot survive.  There's well over a hundred different varieties.  If needed, we can ship most via UPS.   Pot sizes range from 2 gallon up to 15 gallon.  The nicest ones will sell out quickly.  BTW, Bromeliads are easy to care for and excellent growers.  But, you must remember to spray them weekly when it's hot to put water in their cups.  Most shown will take full sun  Plant price depend on the species and size - and whether its an older clumping plant.  But, compared to palms & cycads they are affordable.

AND, FOR ONE WEEK, ALL ARE 15% OFF REGULAR PRICES.

Assorted Bromeliads all types Assorted Bromeliads all types Assorted Bromeliads all types
Assorted Bromeliads all types Assorted Bromeliads all types Assorted Bromeliads all types
Assorted Bromiads all types Assorted Bromiads all types Assorted Bromiads all types
Assorted Bromeliads all types Assorted Bromeliads all types
Assorted Bromeliads all types Assorted Bromeliads all types Assorted Bromeliads all types

 

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR



A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM
THIS SPECIES WANTS SUN AND HEAT!

TEN DAY SPECIAL VERY NICE 15G 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 are our 15 gallon sized plants that we’re putting on special.  They are sun acclimated and ready to plant. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 115 GALLON $210

Remember:  Mention this Special for this price.  Of note we also carry the "Green Bismarckia" but the one on sale today is the prominent blue variety.

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 NICE 20 GALLON SIZE

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE


REGULAR PRICE 20 GALLON SIZE $595
TEN DAY SPECIAL 20 GALLON SIZE $495

Biamarckia nobilis 20g Biamarckia nobilis 20g Biamarckia nobilis 20g
Biamarckia nobilis 20g Biamarckia nobilis 20g Biamarckia nobilis 20g
Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis

 

PINANGA JAVANA
SINGLE TRUNK, TROPICAL & EXOTIC SPECIES


GETS TALLER THAN P. CORONATA - BEING GROWN BY COLLECTORS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

It's been a few years since we've offered this rare single trunk Pinanga from the island of Java, Indonesia.  A different thing about this species is that it is single trunk.  Juvenile plants have solid, simple leaves as shown in the photos.  But, over time, they become pinnate leaves as seen on the larger garden specimen.  The mature trunk is thin and ringed.  Leaves are six feet long or more - green in color.  The thing about this species is that no one has it!  Shown are the 15g plants we're putting on Special.  It wants filtered light and is cold hardy down to about a freeze.

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

PINANGA JAVANA 15G PINANGA JAVANA 15G PINANGA JAVANA 15G
PINANGA JAVANA 15G PINANGA JAVANA 15G PINANGA JAVANA 15G
Pinanga javana Pinanga javana palmpedia

 

SABAL RIVERSIDE
MEDIUM SIZED GREEN TO SLIGHT BLUE-GREEN FAN PALM


VERY COLD HARDY - TOLERATES SUN MOST AREAS
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE 15 GALLON PLANTS


It is true that there are no native Sabal species in the community of Riverside, CA.  But, this name was coined from an existing large single Sabal tree that grew many decades ago in a private residence in Riverside.  It is such a popular species and its progeny have made many seeds over the years, that many individuals grow it and retain the name,  giving credit to the seed bearing mother plant.  By the way, the mother plant no longer exists in its original estate.  No one knows for sure where it originally came from.  The estate owner back then, by report, traveled the world and had a fascination for palms.  Speculation is that he collected seeds from a large species of Sabal in the Caribbean, but this was never documented.  In any case, this blue-green, thick trunked, large leafed and super cold hardy species is sought after by many.

Shown here is one of our 15 gallon sized plants that are huge for their container.  They are showing their costopalmate leaves, blue-green in color, with long petioles and vigorous growth.  Mature trunk diameter is 18 to 24 inches, eventual height 20 to 30 feet.  Seeds are black and the trunk eventually (after loss of upper retained leaf bases) becomes relatively smooth.  This species wants full sun, can tolerate temperatures into the mid teens F. and is being grown in colder areas like northern California, the Carolinas and central Texas.  It is a great palm for colder desert areas.  We try to always have this species available in a variety of sizes.  Be aware that many palm references won't even deal with this "species" because it's natural origin is not known.

We're putting very much over-sized 15g plants on Special.  They need to go into the ground or be repotted.

REGULAR PRICE THESE HUGE 15 GALLON $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE HUGE 15 GALLON $215


Sabal riverside huge 15gSabal riverside 15g   Sabal riverside huge 15g
Sabal riverside huge 15gSabal riverside huge 15g   Sabal riverside 15g
Sabal riverside San Diego Balboa ParkSabal riverside San Diego Balboa Park   Sabal riverside San Diego Balboa Park

  

DYPSIS ARENARUM
THE SAND PALM



SIMILAR TO DYPSIS LUTESCENS BUT WITH WHITE CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON 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 a very rare species.  We rarely have it for sale. Note, we’re putting our 5 gallon plants on Special.  These can be mail ordered. All three mature specimen photos are c/o TS at RPS.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON SIZE $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $120


Dypsis arenarum 5g Dypsis arenarum 5g Dypsis arenarum 5g
Dypsis arenarum 5g Dypsis arenarum 5g Dypsis arenarum 5g
Dypsis arenarum TS RPS Dypsis arenarum TS RPS Dypsis arenarum TS at RPS

 

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

 

SMOOTH CROWN, COLORED CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE 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 five gallon size.  These can be acclimate to sun and planted in the garden or shifted up over time to bigger pots.  They can be mail ordered.  The 8th photo is c/o Wikipedia and the last photos is of a 25 gallon at the Nursery which has sold.

REGULAR PRICE FIVE GALLON $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON $125


Euterpe edulis 5g Euterpe edulis 5g
Euterpe edulis 5g Euterpe edulis 5g Euterpe edulis 5g
Euterpe edulis 25g at Nursery Euterpe edulis Wikipedia Euterpe edulis

 

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 $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $125


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

   

CHAMAEROPS HUMILIS - GREEN FORM
LOVES SUN AND HEAT – EXTREMELY COLD HARDY


SUCKERING FAN PALM WITH MEDIUM SIZED MATURE SIZE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

Historically Chamaerops humilis has been considered a monotypic genus although in recent times a very blue version (Chamaerops cerifera) has been discovered in northern Africa and this may be eventually named as the second species in the genus.  This green species is very durable and can live on limited water.  It tolerates hot full sun, even in desert environments.  Although there are variations in mature heights (different clones of the same species), it tends not to be overly tall.  It does sucker and leaf stems are armed with sharp barbs.  Most mature specimens are between ten and twenty feet tall.  The 5 gallon plants on special are the green form of this species.  Notably, all C. humilis can be green or have strong hints of blue in the leaves and stems.  This species demands full sun and loves heat.  In the shade, it performs poorly.  Cold tolerance is about 15 degrees F.  This size can easily be shipped for mail orders.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $100
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $75


Chamaeroops humilis 5g Chamaeroops humilis 5g Chamaeroops humilis 5g
Chamaeroops humilis 5g Chamaeroops humilis 5g Chamaeroops humilis 5g
Chamaerops humilis Chamaerops humilis Chamaerops humilis

 

CHAMAEDOREA MICROSPADIX
SEMI-DWARF SUCKERING BAMBOO PALM



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


This suckering Chamaedorea has very thin canes, somewhat wide leaflets, green leaves and an overall small to medium size.  Mature plants are rarely over 8 feet tall.  Often leaves can have an iridescent sheen and sometimes are glaucous on the back side.  This species wants filtered light and is cold hardy into the upper teens F.  The 2 gallon on sale are nicely sized and suckering already.  They are equivalent to a 5 gallon plant.

REGULAR PRICE THESE LARGE 2 GALLON $85
SALE PRICE THIS SIZE $75

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.  These can be mail ordered.  The plants on special are shown in the first two rows of photos.  The last row shows a 15g at the nursery.


Chamaedorea microspadix suckering Chamaedorea microspadix suckering Chamaedorea microspadix suckering
Chamaedorea microspadix suckering Chamaedorea microspadix suckering Chamaedorea microspadix suckering
Chamaedorea microspadix Chamaedorea microspadix suckering Chamaedorea microspadix suckering

   

WODYETIA BIFURCATA
THE FOXTAIL PALM

THIN TRUNK, FLUFFY GREEN LEAVES, MEDIUM SIZED MATURE
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE 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.  We’re putting shippable 1 gallon on sale.   

REGULAR PRICE
ONE GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL
ONE GALLON $52.50


Remember:  Mention this Blog Special when you purchase


Wodyetia bifurcata 1g Wodyetia bifurcata 1g Wodyetia bifurcata 1g
Wodyetia bifurcata 1g Wodyetia bifurcata 1g Wodyetia bifurcata 1g
WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA WODYETIA BIFURCATA

SYAGRUS SANCONA
THE SOUTH AMERICAN FOXTAIL PALM



VERY PLUMOSE LEAVES
HARD TO FIND BUT NICE JUVENILE PLANTS AVAILABLE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON PLANTS

This is one of the prettiest Syagrus you can buy.  It gets its common name from the fact that the leaves are very plumose (multi-ranked or fluffy), resembling the Foxtail Palm.  As the photographs show, the trunk is thin for the height of this palm.  And it is prominently ringed.  Mature height can be 50 feet or more.  It is native to about six countries in the northern part of South America.  It prefers full sun once acclimated and is cold tolerant down to the mid-twenties F.  We have available a limited number of very nice one gallon plant as shown below.  We are putting them on Special.  The last photo is c/o TS at RPS.

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

Remember:  Mention this Blog Special to get this price.


Syagrus sancona 1g Syagrus sancona 1g Syagrus sancona 1g
Syagrus sancona 1g Syagrus sancona 1g Syagrus sancona 1g
Syagrus sancona 1g Syagrus sancona 1g Syagrus sancona TS  RPS

 

DYPSIS LASTELLIANA
THE RED NECK PALM



NATIVE TO MADAGASCAR
TEN DAY SPECIAL SEEDLING SIZE

This species of single trunk Madagascar palm is often mixed up with  Dypsis leptocheilos, an ideal palm species for Southern California.  Dypsis lastelliana, which is a near identical species, is a bigger single trunk species with a very similar red, fuzzy crown shaft.  But, it is harder to grow because it is less cold tolerant.  It gets to a height of about 25 feet and has a thicker trunk with upright longer green leaves.  It would do best in the sun and is cold hardy down to perhaps a freeze.  It is also slower growing than the Teddy Bear Palm.  For the best locations in So Cal, it can be grown.  There's one at the Catamaran Hotel in Pacific Beach in San Diego that's been alive for years.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE BAND SIZE $55


Just mention this Special at the time of purchase.


DYPSIS LASTELLIANA DYPSIS LASTELLIANA DYPSIS LASTELLIANA
DYPSIS LASTELLIANA DYPSIS LASTELLIANA Dypsis lastelliana
Dypsis lastelliana mead Dypsis lastelliana Dypsis lastelliana

 

CARYOTA URENS
THE GIANT MOUNTAIN FISHTAIL

FAST GROWING - SUPER TALL - DIFFICULT TO FIND
REASONABLY COLD HARDY TALL BIPINNAT PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS

Yes, this species of Fishtail is super fast growing.  And, it's not unusual for one to get above 70 feet tall.  Some people love the grandeur of these palms.  And, for some, they want it "right now".  Well, this is an opportunity to satisfy that need.  Planted out, once established, this is a super fast growing palm.  It would not be unusual to go from a seedling to a height of 30 feet in six or seven years.  This species is native to northern Thailand and surrounding countries.  The trunk is about 16 inches or so thick and light tan in color.  The leaves are compound – bipinnate.  This means the main stem branches off into secondary leaf stems.  Leaflets are jagged at their ends.  Also, this is a monoecious palm that dies about three years after flowering  It wants full coastal sun.  It is taller than Caryota gigas and has shorter leaves and a thinner trunk.  We’re putting nice band sized seedlings on sale.  Easy to mail order.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE BAND SEEDLINGS $55

Easy to mail order.  Limited numbers available.


Caryota uren band Caryota uren band Caryota uren band
Caryota uren band Caryota uren band Caryota urens
Caryota urens Caryota urens Caryota urens

 

SABAL BRAZORIENSIS
DWARF FAN PALM NATIVE TO TEXAS

NATURAL HYBRID BETWEEN TWO SABAL SPECIES

 

VERY DIFFICULT TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLING
S


Sabal brazoriensis
 is a naturally occurring dwarf hybrid fan palm that was discovered in Brazoria County, Texas.  It is a cross between Sabal minor (a small dwarf species) and Sabal palmetto.  Identifying this hybrid puzzled taxonomists until genetic studies found that (in the long ago past) these two species hybridized.  It's location presently is known only to occur in Brazoria County.  Leaves are green and very large for its height.  Mature heights range from ten to twenty feet. It is extremely slow growing - so it'll be short for quite a while.  Leaves are very costopalmate - as opposed to other species.  Trunks are thick.  We germinated and are growing some of this sought after species.
  It is touted to be super cold hardy although I cannot give an accurate number for you.  Some say it'll take close to zero degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE THESE RARE BAND SIZED PLANTS $70
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $60

The photo of the garden specimen is by Brian F. Austin at PalmTalk.


Sabal brazoriensis band Sabal brazoriensis band Sabal brazoriensis band
Sabal brazoriensis band Sabal brazoriensis band Sabal brazoriensis band
  Sabal brazoriensis palmtalk by Brian F. Austin  

  

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 and a 15 gallon 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.  On this band size we only have a handful left.

REGULAR PRICE THESE BANDS $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $65


We, of course, have other sizes of this species for sale.


ENCEPHALARTOS AEMULANS ENCEPHALARTOS AEMULANS BAND 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 $345
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE OVERSIZED 2 GALLON $280

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

 

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. 

REGULAR PRICE CITRUS POT THIS SIZE $365
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT THIS SIZE $295


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

 

DIOON EDULE VARIETY TAMAULIPAS
GLAUCOUS GREEN THIN LEAF MEXICAN CYCAD


ONE OF VARIOUS VARIETIES OF
DIOON EDULE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

Dioon edule is a very durable species of cycad that is found in Mexico.  Enthusiasts have found that in different native localities that the plants of each region are different.  This has led to what we call "varieties" of Dioon edule.  In the Tamaulipas area of Mexico such a variety is found.  This is also the locality of the recognized species Dioon angustiolium. The Dioon edule variety tamaulipas is a glaucous green species with flat leaves and narrow leaflets.  The leaflets re minimally spined if at all.  Leaflets are spaced with a narrow gap between individual leaflets.  Leaf color is green to a blue-green.  Mature plants are dwarf and rarely over 6 feet tall overall in the garden.  It prefers full sun and is cold hardy into the upper teens F.  It likes good draining soil.  We are offering 5 gallon plants with a 3 inch caudex on this hard to find variety.  These can be mail ordered.  Unfortunately, I have no garden photos of this variety.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 3 INCH 5 GALLON $375
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS BATCH 5 GALLON 3 INCH CAUDEX $295

 
Dioon edule tamalupis 5g 3 inches Dioon edule tamalupis 5g 3 inches Dioon edule tamalupis 5g 3 inches
Dioon edule tamalupis 5g 3 inches Dioon edule tamalupis 5g 3 inches  

 

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS – BLUE FORM
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD


BLUE STACKED LEAFLETS - MINIMAL IF ANY SPINES
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE WITH CAUDEX 3 INCHES

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 plants on Special should be a nice blue form.  Trunks of this species 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 citrus pot size on sale came from blue parents and will become more blue out of the greenhouse and in full sun.  Caudex size is 3 inches.  This size is easy to mail order.  BTW, this actual plant shown below is definitely not the green form.  You can see the leaves are gray colored and, outdoors in the sun should be blue over time.  The garden photos below show a blue plant,, a green plant and something in between.

REGULAR PRICE CITRUS POT WITH  3 INCH CAUDEX $450
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE 3 INCH CAUDEX $360

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase to get this price!  Easy to mail order, weather permitting.


Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches
Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches Encephalartos longifolius cit pot 3 inches
Encephalartos longifolius Encephalartos longifolius

 

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 $525
TEN DAY SPECIAL - THIS SIZE $465

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

 

DRACENA DRACO
THE DRAGON TREE


LIMITED NUMBER PLANTS OF ONE GALLON SIZE AVAILABLE
IN GROUND MAKES MEDIUM SIZED MATURE TREE
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE

This species of Dracena actually makes a rather large tree.  It has thick silver leaves.  It is native to the Canary Islands.  It has the peculiar habit that, after a lengthy time, any given branch stops growing and then bifurcates or trifurcates, giving a very branched pattern. The trunk can get quite thick.  It has fragrant white blossoms.  It likes full sun and is cold hardy only into the mid-twenties F.  Shown here is our one gallon size as well as our old trunked out 25 gallon plants which we're putting on sale.  The 25g size is at least twelve years old.  This tree wants full sun and does get rather large (see photo below). 

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $55 (first two rows of photos)
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $45

REGLAR PRICE LARGED TRUNKED-OUT 25 GALLON $595 (3rd & 4th row of photos)
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE LARGE 25 GALLON $495

Remember to mention this Blog Special when you purchase to get this price.  ThE 1 gallon are easily shippable but the 25g are too big and heavy to ship by UPS.

Dracena draco 1g Dracena draco 1g Dracena draco 1g
Dracena draco 1g Dracena draco 1g Dracena draco 1g
Dracena draco 25g Dracena draco 25g
Dracena draco 25g Dracena draco Dracena draco garden, mauture and branching

 

PHILODENDRON XANADU
EXOTIC COMPANION PLANT


TOLERATES SOME COASTAL SUN
BIG AND FULL 15G PLANTS
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE

This Philodendron is actually a hybrid that was commercial created.  It is known for its smaller size with small to medium leaves, deep cuts into individual leaves and compact overall form.  It is very attractive and is not a climbing plant.  We've had this variety before but typically in small sizes.  We just got in a few very nice one gallon plants that we’re putting on Special.  They will take some degree of coastal sun.  Inland area growers should put this in strong filtered light.  Cold tolerance is into the upper 20's FThe size on special is easy to ship.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $50

Just mention this Special when you purchase for this price.  The last photo is c/o garden hedge website.

Philodendron xanadu 1g Philodendron xanadu 1g Philodendron xanadu 1g
Philodendron xanadu 1g Philodendron xanadu 1g Philodendron xanadu 1g
Philodendron xanadu 15g Philodendron xanadu Philodendron xanadu garden hedge

 

THE MOOSEHORN FERN
PLATYCERIUM SUPERBUM

 


GROWS EPIPHYTICALLY
MOUNT ON WOOD OR TREE TRUNK
DIFFICULT PLANT TO FIND - CAN BE SHIPPED

TEN DAY SPECIAL NICELY SIZED AND MOUNTED PLANT

Platycerium 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 nicely sized.  The plant shown below has a shield that is about 12 inches wide and mounted on wood.  It's shown in the first three photos.  Note that, if you order, the plant you receive will not be the plant shown below and may be slightly larger or smaller than shohwn.

TEN DAY SPECIAL MOOSEHORN FERN THIS SIZE $275


I can mail order these but they take a surprising large box to ship.  The last photo is a great picture and was taken by floragreatlakes.info website.

     
MOOSEHORN FERN Platycerum superbum MOOSEHORN FERN Platycerum superbum MOOSEHORN FERN Platycerum superbum
Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern Playcereum superbum Moosehorn Fern Moosehorn Fern Platycerium superbum by floragreatlakes.info website

 

LIGULARIA TUSSILANGINEA - AKA FARUGIUM TUSSILANGINEA
LILY-LIKE, FLAT GREEN LEAVES


YELLOW BLOSSOMS IN FALL
TAKES COASTAL SUN - LIKES WATER
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE FULL FIVE GALLON


This is an interesting plant we propagate ourselves from seeds of existing plants.  They form small clusters of shiny green leaf plants that don't get over 18 inches.  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.  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.  Below you’ll see our 5 gallon size that we’re putting on Special.  These can be mail ordered.

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

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


Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g
Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g
Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g by RT Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum

 

PHILODENDRON McCOLLEYS FINALE
RED NEW LEAVES - ROSETTE PLANT
FILTERED LIGHT IN THE GARDEN OR HOUSEPLANT


TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON

This is a hybrid Philodendron that has scarlet-red emergent new leaves that eventually become a shiny green.  With this said, in the containers we have plants with six or seven leaves where all leaves are still red.  But, eventually old leaves will be green.  This is not a climbing species.  It can be grown in a container as a houseplant or in the garden.  It wants filtered light and is cold hardy down to about a freeze or a bit below. The last photo is by Pinterest UK, unknown author.  Note these are in limited supply.

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



Philodendron McColleys finale 1g Philodendron McColleys finale 1g Philodendron McColleys finale 1g
Philodendron McColleys finale 1g Philodendron McColleys finale 1g Philodendron McColleys finale 1g
  philodendron mccolleys finale pinterest uk  

  

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. 

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $45
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $35


Mention this Special for your discount


REX BEGONIA REX BEGONIA REX BEGONIA
REX BEGONIA REX BEGONIA REX BEGONIA

  

 

                              WEDNESDAY, 18 SEPTEMBER, 2024

 

CRYOSOPHILA STAURACANTHA
THE STAR PALM


MEDIUM SIZE, WHITE UNDERSIDE TO LEAVES
A VERY COOL PALM - SOMEWHAT COLD HARDY


This single trunk fan palm is native to regions stretching from Mexico through Central America.  In the genus, there are multiple species.  All have prominent white powder on the underside of the leaflets as shown here.  Trunks are narrow.  Often you'll see what look like "spines" on the trunk.  But, these are a different structure - they are modified root spines.  They are quite interesting looking.  Right on the coast, this species can take full or part day sun.  Most would grow it in bright filtered light.  Expect heights ranging from ten feet to well over twenty feet.  Cold hardiness is into the upper twenties F.  Shown here are photos of the 15g size at the nursery.  Notice the white backs to the leaflets.  Also shown are photographs of a Cryosophila unknown species to show the typical appearance and trunk covered with "spines".  We usually have an assortment of sizes available.

CryosophIla stauracantha CryosophIla stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha
CryosophIla stauracantha Cryosophila Cryosophila

 

DIOON MEROLAE
A SMALLER MEXICAN CYCAD


LEAF COLOR GREEN TO GRAY
SHOWING THREE AVAILABLE NURSERY SIZES
TOLERATES FULL SUN IN COASTAL AREAS

This is one of my favorite cycads.  It is native to Chiapas and Oaxaca, Mexico.  Although plants in the wild may have trunks of eight to ten feet, this will take many centuries.  A typical very old plant in a domestic garden has two to three feet of trunk.  With its small to medium sized crown of leaves, this species will therefore never obstruct a view or get too large.  Leaf color is typically a gray-green.  But, in less sun it may become more green.  I've seen plants that are in full sun and almost have a very gray color to the leaves (see photo below).  It is cold tolerant to the low 20's F.  Along the coast it'll take full sun.  Far inland areas should consider morning sun or strong filtered light.

I am showing the following with the photos:
First two rows:  Two different 5g plants
Rows three and four:  Detail look at a nice 15g
Rows five and six:  Six different boxed old specimens
Bottom row:  Two garden specimens

We have a great selection of many sizes.  All can be shipped.

   
Dioon merolae  Dioon merolae  Dioon merolae 
Dioon merolae  Dioon merolae  Dioon merolae
Dioon merolae Dioon merolae Dioon merolae
Dioon merolae Dioon merolae Dioon merolae
Dioon merolae Dioon merolae Dioon merolae 
Dioon merolae  Dioon merolae  Dioon merolae 

BURRETIOKENTIA KOGHIENSIS
RARE NEW CALEDONIAN PALM


NARROW TRUNK & WHITE CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 25G 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 25g plants.  You'll not see locally grown plants of this species and size around at all.  And, never on sale.

REGULAR PRICE 25G $650
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25G $575

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

  

PRITCHARDIA SPECIMEN PALMS FOR SALE
MEDIUM SIZED HAWAIIAN FAN PALM

GREEN LEAVES - TOLERATES COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE 25G SIZE


This popular type of fan palm native to Hawaii is easy to grow and typically, over many years, will get to a height of about twenty feet.  We are growing at least five or six species that have gotten huge in 25 gallon pots.  Leaves are usually green but there is a blue-leafed form.  Trunk diameter is about 8 to 10 inches.  Leaves are palmate with a bit of wave in the cross section. 

Along the coast they'll take full sun.  Inland areas should try morning sun or strong filtered light.  Cold tolerance is into the upper twenties F.  Some of the 25g we have shown here is about 12 feet tall in the pot and at least 12 years old.  I’d estimate some of them are the size of a 36 inch boxed plant.  They are all too big for mail orders but could be delivered.  We have limited numbers available.  The first four photos show one of these beauties and the other photos are garden pictures. 

REGULAR PRICE 25 GALLON THIS HUGE SIZE $650
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE 25 GALLON $550

Remember to mention this Special at the time of purchase.

 

Pritchardia hildebrandtii Pritchardia hildebrandtii Pritchardia hildebrandtii  
Pritchardia hildebrandtii Pritchardia hildebrandtii Pritchardia hildebrandtii  
Pritchardia hildebrandtii Pritchardia hildebrandtii Pritchardia hildebrandtii  



CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII
THE MOST CLASSIC OF THE BAMBOO PALMS



MATURE, FLOWERING SIZE 15G
FILTERED LIKE, SHORTER PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIFTEEN YEAR OLD 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 OLD AND MATURE 15G $450
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $365

We only have a few of this size.  Also, because of plant height, mail order may not be available.  But, this size can be delivered by us or a trucking company.


CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII
CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII Chamaedorea seifritzii

   

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

WE JUST GOT IN ANOTHER BATCH OF 15 GALLON
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.  The last time we offered them we ran out in a few days, so we ordered in a next batch of this size.  If our 15 gallons sell out, many times we can acquire more.  But, we only have a few 15 gallon size.  And, we may be a few larger plants.

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

We tend to sell out of these quickly but often can re-order in some more if this happens. 


Blutia capitata odorata 15g blue Blutia capitata odorata 15g blue Blutia capitata odorata 15g blue
Blutia capitata odorata 15g blue Blutia capitata odorata 15g blue Blutia capitata odorata 15g blue
Butia capitata blue garden Blutia capitata blue by Paul Craft Blutia capitata blue 15g

 

CHAMAEDOREA PLUMOSA
THE BABY QUEEN PALM


SEVERAL PLANTS PER POT
LOOK BEST IN GROUPS OF TWO OR THREE PLANT TOGETHER
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON FIFTEEN GALLON MULTIPLES

For anyone who's looked for this species lately, you realize it's in very short supply.  This is because of a several year shortage of seeds the past few years.  We are pleased to offer nice older one gallon plants on Special.  All are multiples with at least 3 plants per 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.  Shown below and on Special are our 15 gallon size with multiple plants.  If we run out of plumosa, we do have similar sizes of Chamaedorea glaucifolia, which is almost a twin-species to the plumosa.

REGULAR PRICE
15 GALLON $235

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $195

Mention this Blog Special for your discount at the time of purchase.  The last photo is c/o TS at RPS.


Chamaedorea plumosa 15g Chamaedorea plumosa 15g Chamaedorea plumosa 15g
Chamaedorea plumosa 15g Chamaedorea plumosa 15g Chamaedorea plumosa 15g
CHAMAEDOREA PLUMOSA CHAMAEDOREA PLUMOSA 1G MULTIPLES CHAMAEDOREA PLUMOSA PALMPEDIA

 

KING PALM
ARCHONTOPHOENIX CUNNINGHAMIANA



MEDIUM TO TALL, FULL OR PART DAY SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SINGLES, DOUBLES OR TRIPLES
SUN GROWN & ALL THE SAME PRICE!


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 fairly tall single and triple 15 gallon plants.  These plants have seen some coastal sun and should be ready to plant in most areas.  We have a limited number available. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON SINGLES OR TRIPLES $185
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE 15 GALLON SINGLES OR TRIPLES $160


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


Archontophoenix cunninghamiana multiple 15g Archontophoenix cunninghamiana multiple 15g Archontophoenix cunninghamiana multiple 15g
Archontophoenix cunninghamiana multiple 15g Archontophoenix cunninghamiana multiple 15g Archontophoenix cunninghamiana multiple 15g
Archontophoenix cunninghamiana Archontophoenix cunninghamiana Archontophoenix cunninghamiana

 

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM



TALL, SINGLE TRUNK SPECIES
ELEGANT WITH LONG CROWN SHAFT
SINGLE PLANTS AND MULTIPLES
TEN DAY 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 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 15 gallon shown here is a double.  In this size we also have single trunk plants in addition to multiples.  Many in Southern California are growing this species quite well.  The 8th photo below was at the home of the late Luis Hooper in La Brea, CA.  There's a shortage of this species on the California market.  This species is also very quick growing.  With our 15g you will probably have leaves over the house in 3 to 4 years.  We have singles and multiples.  BTW, the 15 gallon shown below is over ten feet tall in its pot.  If this one sells, others are quite tall as well.

REGULAR PRICE LARGE 15 GALLON $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL OUR LARGE 15 GALLON ROYALS $225

Mention this Special for your discount.

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

 

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM


LOVES SUN AND HEAT
PLANTS ON SPECIAL SIX FEET TALL

TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 5 GALLON SIZE
 

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

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


Note:  All the garden photos below were taken in Southern California.  Yes, they grow easily in many areas here.

 
ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g
ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g

  

RAVENEA GLAUCA
A GREAT PALM FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
MEDIUM MATURE HEIGHT 


ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND RECENTLY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This is a medium sized palm that I would consider to be among the "top twenty" palm species for Southern California.  About three decades ago, Ravenea rivularis, the Majesty Palm, was introduced as the future "best palm" for Southern California.  Because of its large size, failure to always look good, immense appetite for fertilizer and water and often yellowing tendency, the Majesty has since fallen out of favor.  This much smaller version of the Majesty, Ravenea glauca, is now the hot plant to get.  And, it lives up to its reputation.  It gets to a height of twenty, perhaps twenty-five feet, has a thin trunk of typically four inches and doesn't seem subject to the maladies of the common Majesty.  Along the coast it loves full sun.  And, if given normal doses of fertilizer, it doesn't yellow.  Few customers complain about this species.  Of note, there is another dwarf Ravenea, R. hildebrandtii, but the Ravenea glauca is much easier to grow. 

Shown below is our 5 gallon size which we are putting on Special.  We have limited supplies available.  Availability of this species has been very limited lately.  Cold tolerance is into the mid to low 20's F., sun tolerance is full along the coast.  Hot, inland areas would require part sun or strong filtered light.  Growth rate is quick and this species is easy to grow.   Shown below are photos of the 5 gallon size on sale.  Photos below are c/o TS at RPS and Palmpedia (the last photo is a great habitat photo!)

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $155
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $125  


Ravenea glauca 5g Ravenea glauca 5g Ravenea glauca 5g
Ravenea glauca 5g Ravenea glauca 5g Ravenea glauca
Ravenea glauca Ravenea glauca TS RPS Ravenea glauca PalmPedia

 

DYPSIS LEPTOCHEILOS
THE TEDDY BEAR PALM


EVERYONE LOVES THIS PALM
ONE OF THE BEST MADAGASCAR PALMS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE

The Teddy Bear Palm has become super popular because it grows well in Southern California, has a rusty colored, fuzzy crown shaft, has a silver, ringed trunk and doesn't get too tall.  For most enthusiasts, it's among the "top ten" Madagascar palms.  Mature height is about 25 feet.  Right on the coast it does well with full sun.  Cold hardiness is about 25 degrees F.  Growth rate is medium.  One can grow it in part day sun as well.  The average enthusiast, once he sees a mature plant, just "has to have one".   Expect a mature height in California of about 25 feet or a bit more.  Trunk diameter is usually about eight inches.  The crown shaft is the most prominent trait - fuzzy, rusty red and quite touchable.  The latter trait is why it's called the "Teddy Bear Palm".  We’re putting our five gallon size on Special but only have a few available.

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

Mention this Special for your discount.


Dypsis leptocheilos 5g Dypsis leptocheilos 5g Dypsis leptocheilos 5g
Dypsis leptocheilos 5g Dypsis leptocheilos 5g Dypsis leptocheilos 5g
Dypsis leptocheilos Dypsis leptocheilos Dypsis leptocheilos

  

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 $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $125

Remember:  Mention this Special for this Blog Only discounted price.  

Chamaedorea costaricana 5g Chamaedorea costaricana 5g Chamaedorea costaricana 5g
Chamaedorea costaricana 5g Chamaedorea costaricana 5g Chamaedorea costaricana 5g
Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana at Nursery Chamaedorea costaricana

 

SABAL CAUSIARUM
LARGE TRUNKED TROPICAL FAN PALM

 
TRUNK IS SMOOTH AND LIGHT COLORED
SUPER COLD HARDY

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZED PLANTS

This is one of my favorite Sabal species and I’m sure it may become one of yours as well.  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 quite thick, smooth and a light tan to gray color.  Trunks can be up to 30 inches in diameter.  They are almost like a concrete pillar.  Leaf color is blue-green.  Growth rate is good and it likes full, hot sun.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-teens F.  The size we’re putting on sale is 5 gallon.  These can be mail ordered. 

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


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

  

LIVISTONA LANUGINOSA
THE WOOLY LIVISTONA


TALL, THINNER TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 G SIZE

This single trunk fan palm is native to northeastern Australia.  It has previously been referred to as the Cape River Livistona.  Formal description was first done by John Dowe in 1998 - followed by other revisions.  It gets to heights above thirty feet with a trunk diameter of 10 to 18 inches.  In habitat it tolerates hot and arid conditions.  It is a full sun species with cold hardiness to at least the low 20's F.

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

Just mention this Blog Special for your discount.  The first habitat photo is c/o Darrel Oconnor Palmpedia and the second by John Dowe c/o Palm Specialist Group

Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa
Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa Livistona lanuginosa
Livistona lanuginosa Darrel Oconnor PalmPedia Livistona lanuginosa  

 

DYPSIS SPECIES BEF
SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM FROM MADAGASCAR



THIN TRUNK, ARCHING LEAVES, WHITE CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND 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.  The first six photos show the plants on special. 

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $55

This size is easy to ship.  This species will take coastal sun.  Cold tolerance is unknown  although I’d guess it’s in the mid-twenties F. 


Dypsis species bef band  Dypsis species bef band  Dypsis species bef band 
Dypsis species bef band  Dypsis species bef band  Dypsis species bef band 
Dypsis species bef   Dypsis species bef Jeff Ausralia  Dypsis species bef  

 

GAUSSIA GOMEZ-POMPAE
BIGGER AND TALLER THAN GAUSIA MAYA


PINNATE LEAVES, NO CROWN SHAFT
VERY RARE  - NEW TO CULTIVATION
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE BAND 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.  This is the first time I've offered it for sale.  The bands on sale are huge for their pots and need repotting.  Best would be into a 5 gallon pot.  They are over three feet tall in their pots.

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


Gaussia gomez-pompae band Gaussia gomez-pompae band Gaussia gomez-pompae band
Gaussia gomez-pompae band Gaussia gomez-pompae Gaussia gomez-pompae

 

BUTIA PARAGUAYENSIS
BLUE-GREEN BUTIA FROM SOUTH AMERICA



ARCHING LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE SEEDLING 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 band size seedlings.  Culture includes full sun and good draining soil.  Cold hardiness is into the teens F.  The bands on sale are way oversized and ready for a 5 gallon pot.  They are 4 to 5 year old.  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 BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS $55


BUTIA PARAGUAYENSIS BUTIA PARAGUAYENSIS BUTIA PARAGUAYENSIS
BUTIA PARAGUAYENSIS Butia paraguensis TS RPS Butia paraguensis

ENCEPHALARTOS MUNCHII
A RARE CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD


BLUE – GREEN SPINY LEAFLETS
SUPER DIFFICULT TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE PLANTS

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.  We are putting band sized seedlings on sale.  They are supposed to be the blue form (from blue parents) but need age and sun to show the blue.  These are easy to mail order, weather permitting.

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


Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii
Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii

  

DIOON SPINULOSUM
A CUSTOMER FAVORITE CYCAD

 

FILTERED LIGHT IN GARDEN OR INSIDE THE HOME
GREEN LEAVES, ELEGANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE ONE GALLON PLANTS - EASY TO SHIP


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 and huge, old one gallon on sale..  Age is about 8 years.  Average caudex size on these one gallon is about 4 inches.  They are shown in the first two rows of photos with larger garden plants in the third row.  Easy and affordable to ship.

REGULAR PRICE THESE OVERSIZED ONE GALLON PLANTS $180
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE ONE GALLON $155
 

This size can be easily shipped via UPS mail order.

DIOON SPINULOSUM 1g DIOON SPINULOSUM 1g DIOON SPINULOSUM 1g
DIOON SPINULOSUM 1g DIOON SPINULOSUM 1g DIOON SPINULOSUM 1g
Dioon spinulosum Dioon spinulosum Dioon spinulosum

  

ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII
RARE BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD FOR FULL COASTAL SUN

A FAVORITE AMONG CYCAD ENTHUSIASTS
GOOD STARTER SIZE FOR CYCAD ENTHUSIAST

TEN DAY SPECIAL AFFORDABLE 5 GALLON PLANTS

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 because they are not getting full sun and have lots of humidity.  Cold hardiness is about 21 to 22 degrees F.  In the desert only give it a few hours sun. 

Shown below are E. lehmannii that were put into 5 gallon pots about 9 months ago.  They have r to 6 leaves with caudexes 1 to 1.5 inches.  They can remain in these containers for 2 to 3 years.  Easy to mail order.  We do have larger sizes of 5 gallon not on sale currently.  This size is easy to mail order.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE 5 GALLON $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE 5 GALLON $165

The third row of photos shows other Nursery E. lehmannii.  The 4th row shows garden specimens.


Encephalartos lehmannii 5g caudex 1 inch Encephalartos lehmannii 5g caudex 1 - 1.5 inch Encephalartos lehmannii 5g caudex 1 - 1.5 inch
Encephalartos lehmannii 5g caudex 1 - 1.5 inch Encephalartos lehmannii 5g caudex 1 - 1.5 inch Encephalartos lehmannii 5g caudex 1 - 1.5 inch
ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII
ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII

 

DIOON MEJIAE
LUSH AND TROPICAL APPEARING


NEW WORLD CYCAD
UP TO SPECIMEN SIZES AVAILABLE
20% OFF REGULAR PRICES FOR TEN DAYS

This is a more tropical appearing species of Dioon and is native to Central America in Nicaragua and Honduras.  There it is found among thick deciduous forests.   Leaves are long, green and arch minimally.  In cross section the leaves are flat.  They are similar to the lush leaves of Dioon spinulosum but typically, on mature plants, lack any spines on the leaflets.  Trunks ten to be somewhat narrow, usually under twelve inches.  But, a mature plant in habitat can reach heights of over 20 feet in a century or two.  An attractive thing about this species are the super soft, wooly and yet fragile new leaves as they emerge (last photo).  One is so tempted to feel them.  Leaf color is green with a length of about six feet. 

This is a super attractive plant for morning sun or strong filtered light.  It is possible to grow it in half day coastal sun.  Cold hardiness is into the low 20's F.  The plant shown is in a 15g and has a caudex size of ten inches.  We do have both smaller and larger plants for sale.  All can be mail ordered or delivered within the U.S.  I'm showing you two nursery plants below with some garden photographs.

TEN DAY SPECIAL - 20% OFF REGULAR PRICES ANY SIZE THIS SPECIES

 
Dioon mejiae Dioon mejiae Dioon mejiae
Dioon mejiae Dioon mejiae Dioon mejiae
dioon mejiae dIOON MEJIAE dIOON MEJIAE
Dioon mejiae  Dioon mejiae  Dioon mejiae new leaves emerging

LEPIDOZAMIA HOPEI
LEPIDOZAMIA
 SPECIES WITH WIDER LEAFLETS

 

MAKES A TALL TREE CYCAD OVER A CENTURY
RARE AND HARD TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON GOOD SIZED GARDEN READY 15 GALLON

This species of cycad gets enormous!  I mean really tall.  There are specimens with heights to almost 60 feet – but these plants are hundreds of years old.  Leaves are six to ten feet long.  Leaflets are soft and without spines or armor.  For this reason, it is felt to be a very user-friendly cycad.  But, you must give it adequate room to grow.  Compared to the Lepidozamia peroffskyana, the hopei leaflets are wider.  It's quite noticeable when you compare the two side by side. This is the best way to tell them apart when they are young.  Culturally, it is quite similar to L. peroffskyana, preferring some sun but not full sun in most areas.  Far inland it may do better with filtered light. In terms of rarity, you don't see this species for sale that often.  Cold hardiness is into the mid to lower 20's F.  We're putting an older 15 gallon on sale.  It has a caudex that is 6.5 inches wide and 8 inches tall.  We estimate age at 12-15 years.  It could be mail ordered in a large box.

REGULAR PRICE THIS OLDER 15 GALLON SPECIMEN $1210
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE THIS ACTUAL SPECIMEN $1050

Lepidozamia hopei 15g caudex 6.5 inches x 8 inches Lepidozamia hopei 15g caudex 6.5 inches x 8 inches Lepidozamia hopei 15g caudex 6.5 inches x 8 inches
Lepidozamia hopei 15g caudex 6.5 inches x 8 inches Lepidozamia hopei 15g caudex 6.5 inches x 8 inches Lepidozamia hopei 15g caudex 6.5 inches x 8 inches
Lepidozamia hopei 15g caudex 6.5 inches x 8 inches Lepidozamia hopei Lepidozamia hopei
Lepidozamia hopei Lepidozamia hopei Lepidozamia hopei leaflets

  

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 $1385

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

 

BILBERGIA 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 $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $75 


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

 

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 $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $65

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

 

CRINUM AMABILE - PURPLE LEAF
LARGE CRINUM TYPE LILY - AKA "QUEEN EMMA LILY"




OVERHEAD PURPLE-GREEN LEAVES
EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS

This Lily is native to all sorts of locations throughout the world including southern Asia, Australia, and Africa.  It is known for it's spiraling display of long, heavy substance leaves that are upright and four to six feet long.  Their color is green and dark purple.  Flowers are white with purple centers and markings.  It grows like other Lilies by making offset tubers that make new plants.   Expect a mature height of six to seven feet, definitely overhead.  As mentioned, they clump and form a great display of foliage.  They will not "run" or take over an area.  In recent times these have been near impossible to find.  But, we have a limited number of 15 gallon that we’re putting on sale.  This size is on special as shown below.  This is a perfect size to plant in the garden.  Anticipate a mature clump at about six to seven feet tall.  I’m also showing a blossom and an older plant.  We only have a handful left for sale.

REGULAR PRICE THESE HARD TO FIND 15 GALLON $295
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $
245


Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma Lily 15g Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma Lily 15g Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma Lily 15g
Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma Lily 15g Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma Lily 15g Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma Lily 15g
Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma Lily Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma Lily Crinum amabile purple Queen Emma Lily Blossom

 

HAWAIIAN TI PLANTS - CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA
GREAT COLOR FOR THE GARDEN
SHOWN BELOW - VARIETIES THAT MAY COME AVAILABLE AT NURSERY


 

AVAILABILITY CHANGES WEEKLY
SPECIAL ON THESE GORGEOUS PLANTS

Cordyline fruiticosa 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 various different varieties of HawaiianTi plants thast we have in stock as of today.  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


Cordyline fruiticosa variety florica

   
Cordyline fruiticosa florica 3g Cordyline fruiticosa florica 3g (1) Cordyline fruiticosa florica 3g

Cordyline fruiticosa variety harlequin

   
Cordyline fruiticosa harlequin 3g Cordyline fruiticosa harlequin 3g Cordyline fruiticosa harlequin 3g

Cordyline fruiticosa variety unknown red

   
Cordyline fruiticosa hybrid red Cordyline fruiticosa hybrid red Cordyline fruiticosa hybrid red

Cordyline fruiticosa pastel variety

   
Cordyline fruiticosa variety Pastel 3g (Custom) Cordyline fruiticosa variety Pastel 3g Cordyline fruiticosa variety Pastel 3g

Cordyline fruiticosa variety auntie lou

   
Cordyline fruiticosa auntie lou 3g Cordyline fruiticosa auntie lou 3g Cordyline fruiticosa auntie lou 3g

Cordyline fruiticosa variety chile pepper

   
Cordyline fruiticosa chile pepper 3g Cordyline fruiticosa chile pepper 3g Cordyline fruiticosa chile pepper 3g

Hawaiian Ti's used in the landscape

   
CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA garden CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA garden CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA garden
CORDYLINE FRUITICOSA Cordyline in tropical landscape Cordyline in tropical landscape
Cordyline in tropical landscape Cordyline in tropical landscape Cordyline in tropical landscape

 

 

                              MONDAY, 16 SEPTEMBER, 2024

COLOR IN THE GARDEN
THINGS ANYONE CAN DO


PHOTO TOUR OF A LOCAL BOTANICAL GARDEN
IDEAS FOR ADDING COLORFUL COMPANION PLANTS


Several years ago I visited Sherman Botanical Garden in Corona Del Mar, CA.  I wanted to show photos from that visit thinking perhaps it would give some of you ideas on adding color to the garden.

This is a small coastal community near Laguna Beach.  What I really enjoy about this garden is their usage of colorful and tropical companion plants.  The garden is meticulously maintained and very attractive.  I thought I'd show some photos of some of the garden's colorful plants.  Included are Bromeliads, Anthurium, Begonias, Camelia, Ligularia, Cyclamen, Violets Alocasia and many other types of plants.  All were being grown outdoors, some in sun and others in filtered light. 

FOR MORE READING SEE:  TROPICAL PLANTS AT JUNGLE MUSIC

Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden
Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden
Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden
Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden
Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden
Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden
Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden
Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden
Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden
Color in the garden Color in the garden Color in the garden

 

KENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS
A GREAT CROWN SHAFTED PALM FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA


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 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 a nice 25g plant along with other sizes.  You'll notice that the leaf color in the sun is blue-green in a way.  It is certainly not a lime green color.  Also, some new leaves may emerge with a hint of red color.  Growth rate is good.  We have a reasonable assortment of all sizes although our larger plants are almost sold out.  This species is highly recommended. 

kENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS kENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS kENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS
kENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS kENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS kENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS
kENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS Kentiopsis oliviformis kENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS
Kentiopsis oliviformis Kentiopsis oliviformis kENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS

 

BURRETIOKENTIA HAPALA
AN EXOTIC NEW CALEDONIAN PALM FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

 

DROP DEAD GORGEOUS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

In the mid-1980's I began to grow some of the very cool palms from new Caledonia.  By 1995 I was totally into it and this led to my arranging the fantastic International Palm Society Biennial trip to New Caledonia that happened during my tenure as President in the year 2000.  I just didn't know of a better place for a bunch of palm enthusiasts to go and see some of the best palms in the world.  This species, Burretiokential hapala, is one of those palms.

It is a crown shafted, single trun pinnate 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 lower.  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 here are the band size 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 15 GALLON SIZE $265
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $240

Note that we have two other sizes of this species below.

Burretiokentia hapala 15g Burretiokentia hapala 15g Burretiokentia hapala 15g
Burretiokentia hapala 15g Burretiokentia hapala 15g Burretiokentia hapala 15g
Burretiokentia hapala Burretiokentia hapala 15g Burretiokentia hapala

 

BURRETIOKENTIA KOGHIENSIS
RARE NEW CALEDONIAN PALM


WHITE CROWN SHAFT – NEW RED LEAF
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 15G PLANTS

Burretiokentia koghiensis is a fantastic single trunk palm from New Caledonia.  About 45 minutes out of Noumea (the capitol) is Mount Koghi.  This is the home habitat for this species.  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).  The plant below demonstrates how this species, like other New Caledonian palms, can throw a new red leaf.  The size I’m putting on sale are really nice 15g plants, about 8 to 9 years old.  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 red leaf Burretiokentia koghiensis red leaf Burretiokentia koghiensis red leaf
Burretiokentia koghiensis red leaf Burretiokentia koghiensis red leaf Burretiokentia koghiensis red leaf
Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis Burretiokentia koghiensis

 

SABAL BLACKBURNIANA
LARGE AND TALL FAN PALM


LOVES SUN AND HEAT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This species of thick trunked fan palm is native to Dominican Republic and Haiti.  It can get to over 60 feet tall with a massive 2 foot thick brown trunk.  Leaves are larger than the similar but smaller Sabal palmetto.  Growth rate is quick.  It is also very cold hard and likes full hot sun.  It can go down to the mid-teens F.  The 5 gallon size shown below is about 5-6 years old. 

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

Just remember to mention this Special.  Last photo by friend Justen Dobbs.

Sabal blackburniana 5g June Sabal blackburniana 5g June Sabal blackburniana 5g June
Sabal blackburniana 5g June Sabal blackburniana 5g June Sabal blackburniana j dobbs

 

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 $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $115

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

 

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 $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $125

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

 

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.  We have limited numbers available. 

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

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

 

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 $115

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

 

SABAL MINOR
THE DWARF PALMETTO



NEVER OVER SIX FEET TALL - GREEN FAN PALM LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON PLANTS


This dwarf palm native to the southern states of the U.S. is sought after because of its small size and extreme cold hardiness.  It can take temperatures into the mid-teens F. and rarely gets over six feet tall.  It is often grown in full sun but tolerates part sun or strong filtered light.  Enthusiasts like it because of its small size.  Blossoms commonly shoot above the green fan leaves and produce black small seeds.  We’re putting 2 gallon plants on sale presently.  These are big for their pots.  Easy to mail order. 

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

Just mention this blog special to get this great deal.  This and all sales above apply to mail orders or nursery visits.


Sabal minor Sabal minor Sabal minor
Sabal minor Sabal minor Sabal minor
Sabal minor Sabal minor Sabal minor

  

LICUALA SPINOSA
SUCKERING FILTERED LIGHT FAN PALM


EXOTIC WHEN WELL GROWN
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS - LIMITED SUPPLY
!

 FACTS ABOUT LICUALA SPINOSA

Common Names:

Spiny Licuala palm, Mangrove Fan Palm

ID:

2181

Locality:

Southeast Asia

Cold Hardiness:

26º F.

Trunk Type:

This palm has slender trunks (about an inch); crown is brown and fibrous.

Leaf Type:

Fan leaf, the petiole (leafstalk) is heavily armed with spines.

Suckering/Solitary:

Suckering (multiple trunks).

Maintenance:

Is a great palm for those who have some experience growing palms. Normal watering needs.

Speed of growth:

Slow

Height:

Approximately 8 feet

Soil requirements:

Rich soil with good drainage.

Sun requirements:

Shade or filtered light.

General Description:

This is a very nice palm for a true enthusiast.  It can be a bit fickle but it is worth a try if you live in a warmer area.

Further Data:

If you like this palm see Rhapis excelsa, Licuala ramsayi, Licuala radula, Licuala elegans and Sabal mauritiiformis.


REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $57.50
(Note:  these are a simply ship for mail order)


Licuala spinosa band Licuala spinosa band Licuala spinosa band
Licuala spinosa band Licuala spinosa band Licuala spinosa band
Licuala spinosa Licuala spinosa Licuala spinosa HJD

 

CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
THE FLAME THROWER PALM
NEW RED EMERGING LEAF

 

DARK GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND 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 palmThe 7th and 9th photos by HJD and TS at RPS.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $55


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


Chambeyronia macrocarpa band Chambeyronia macrocarpa band Chambeyronia macrocarpa band
Chambeyronia macrocarpa band Chambeyronia macrocarpa band Chambeyronia macrocarpa band
chamberyronia macrocarpa hjd Chambeyronia m. new red leaf Chambeyronia macrocarpa TS RPS

  

KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS
SUPER RARE SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM



NATIVE TO NEW CALEDONIA
THIN TRUNK - VERY ELEGANT
SPECIAL - VERY NICE BAND SIZE PLANTS

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 only have an excellent selection of large band sized plants.  This is an extremely rare species and we rarely have them for sale.

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


 Photos of large plant below by TS at RPS.


KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS
KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS
Kentiopsis pyriformis TS RPS Kentiopsis pyriformis Kentiopsis pyriformis

 

NEW ARRIVALS TO NURSERY
JUST ARRIVED FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION
ASSORTED BLUE ENCEPHALARTOS


ALL WANT FULL SUN, TOLERATE HEAT
SHIPPING POSSIBLE ON MOST
TEN DAY SPECIAL ALL THESE BLUE CYCADS


About two dozen super blue Encephalartos just arrived at the nursery.  All plants below are South African cycads.  Almost all of them are in the 15 gallon size.  Caudex sizes are variable but most are shippable plants and reasonably affordable.  Figure pricing at around $130 per diameter inch with an extra charge for pups.  All were outdoor grown in sun and will want your full sun unless you live in a desert area.  Figure cold tolerance at about 20 - 22 degrees F.  All are desirable species and all should be a nice addition to the garden.  Blue cycads are the most popular cycads we sell and, right now, we're loaded with a lot of the 15 gallon size.  Almost all of these are a shippable size but only within the U.S.  Size in inches below is the "caudex size" - basis for cost of the plant.  Also, we do have additional plants these sizes / species that are not shown here.

REGULAR PRICE THESE BLUE CYCADS $150 PER INCH,
TEN DAY SPECIAL $130 PER INCH CAUDEX DIAMETER

(Note:  Plants with significant vertical caudex or pups will have additional price adjustments)

Enceephalartos trispinosus 15g 7 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7 inches
Encephalartos blue arenarius 15g 4 inches
Encephalartos blue arenarius 15g 4 inches
Encephalartos horridus 24 inch box 10.5 inches with 4 inch pup
Encephalartos horridus 24 in box 10.5 inches with pup
Encephalartos horridus 25g 9inches with two pups 8 and 4 inches Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 4 inches Encephalartos lehmannii 20g 8.5 x 7.5 inches
Encephalartos horridus 25g 9 " - 2 pups 8  4 in  Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 4 inches  Encephalartos lehmannii 20g 8.5 x 7.5 inches  
Encephalartos munchii blue 15g 6 inches
Encephalartos munchii blue 15g 6 inches
Encephalartos princeps 15g 9 inches
Encephalartos princeps 15g 9 inches
Encephalartos princeps 20g 9.5 x 9 inches
Encephalartos princeps 20g 9.5 x 9 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 3 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 3 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7.5 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 7.5 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 10 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 10 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 8 inches male in cone
Encephalartos trispinosus 15g 8 inches male in cone
Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 4 inches
Encephalartos lehmannii 15g 4 inches

 

CYCAS DEBAOENSIS
SUPER RARE, MULTIPINNATE, SMALL CAUDEX, LONG LEAVES

 

YES, SEEDLINGS OF THE REAL THING!
STRONG STARTER PLANTS
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

In my opinion, this is one of the most desirable cycad species introduced in the past several decades.  It was formally described in 1996.  Native to China, it is a plant with a rather small caudex, typically under a foot in size, but with long leaves that stretch upwards and will divide to the third order.  Some argue that it's just "bi-pinnate", but if you research pictures of the leaves, there is a small stem leading to two or three leaflets.  Therefore, I consider it to be "tri-pinnate".  In other words, the main stem will fork and that branch will fork again, this last stem holding the leaflets..  The Caryota palm divides to the second order and is considered to be multipinate as well.  With this branching, this species produces a very tropical and exotic appearing leaf.

It typically will hold two to four leaves, but has been reported to hold as many as ten leaves.  Length of these can reach ten feet.  They tend to go straight upwards, flexing down over time.  Cycas debaoensis prefers filtered light and is cold hardy to the lower 20's F.  For the first time in a few decades, we are offering seedlings for sale.  These were domestically produced and definitely the real thing.  I've shown other plants of this species before, but such a beautiful plant cannot be shown too many times.   At nurseries, this is considered super rare and is always hard to find.

REGULAR PRICE BAND $100
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $85

These would be easy to mail order.

Cycas debaoensis Cycas debaoensis Cycas debaoensis
Cycas debaoensis Cycas debaoensis Cycas debaoensis
Cycas debaoensis Cycas debaoensis Cycas debaoensis

 

CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIX X CYCAS DEBAOENSIS
CYCAD HYBRID OF TWO RARE SPECIES

 

NEVER AVAILABLE BEFORE
CANNOT PREDICT FUTURE APPEARANCE
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 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.  Only a few left to offer.  Easy to ship.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 1 GALLON $185
DAY SPECIAL THESE PLANTS $160


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 

 

ENCEPHALARTOS LANATUS
A RARE BLUE CYCAD FROM SOUTH AFRICA

LOVES HEAT AND SUN - VERY THIN LEAFLETS

TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE

This beautiful South African species of cycad is best known for the silvery throw of new leaves that it displays.  It has a medium sized trunk, usually to a maximum height of six feet.  It does sucker from the base.  Leaves are about three feet long and arching downward.  The leaflets are very narrow and essentially unarmed.  When new leaves emerge they are a brilliant silver in color.  I was absolutely stunned by the beauty of this species the first time I saw a mature plant throw new leaves.  As they age, they become more of a blue green color.

The native locality for this species experiences extremes in weather from very high summer heat to definite freezes in winter.  In the garden, this species demands sun.  I'd estimate cold hardiness to be in the low 20's.  It is a good species for those in cooler areas who still get summer heat. . 

Shown here is a citrus pot sized plant that has a caudex of 2.75 inches.  Age is about 8 to 10 years from germination.  Remember that rare cycads are sold by their caudex size.  We’re offering nice prices on this size.  If you buy one and it’s a bit smaller caudex size, it’ll cost less.  If it’s bigger, it’ll be more.

REGULAR PRICE CITRUS POT WITH 2.75 INCHES OF CAUDEX $550
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $460

Encephalartos lanatus Encephalartos lanatus Encephalartos lanatus
Encephalartos lanatus Encephalartos lanatus Encephalartos lanatus

 

CERATOZAMIA MEXICANA
GREEN CYCAD FROM MEXICO
BLOWOUT SALE CONING SIZED PLANTS

TEN DAY SPECIAL CONING SIZED PLANTS

This gorgeous cycad is green in color and native to lowland as well as mountainous areas of Vera Cruz, Mexico.  There are various forms.  Some are green emergent but we’ve seen an occasional bronze emergent type.  This is a medium to large cycad with crown spreads of eight to ten feet.  Leaves tend to be horizontal and sometimes a bit dependent, especially on older leaves.  Leaf stems are spiny.  Leaf length can be six feet easily.   Leaflets are medium width with no spines on their edges.  Caudex size can get up to two feet.  Most would grow this is a bit of sun or filtered light.  But, right on the coast, some have grown it well in half day sun.  Cold tolerance is down to the low 20’s F. 

We have an excellent selection of this species and have selected some of the 15 gallons for a Ten Day Special.  Caudexes are four to six inches.  Most are coning size.  These came recently from a private collection and some need to throw out new leaves.  But, all are super healthy and have seen temperatures well into the twenties

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE IN 15 GALLON $700
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE IN 15G $595

This is a great price for these plants, many of which are 15 years old.  This size can be delivered but may be too big for mail order. 

Ceratozamia mexicana Ceratozamia mexicana Ceratozamia mexicana
Ceratozamia mexicana Ceratozamia mexicana Ceratozamia mexicana

 

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

 

VARIETY THAT CHIQUITA UTILIZES FOR MARKET FRUIT
TEN DAY SPECIAL NEAR FRUITING SIZE 15 GALLON

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 $200

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15 GALLON $175


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  

 

THE TASSEL FERN
POLYSTICHUM POLYBLEPHARUM



INTERESTING AND DIFFERENT DWARF FERN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


This dwarf evergreen fern is native to Japan and Taiwan.  Surprisingly, it has a great deal of cold hardiness.  It has been reported that it will grow in areas as cold as Zone 5!  For us in Southern CA, this means there's no risk of frost damage.  This fern gets two feet tall and two feet wide.  The leaves curve down as shown.  They can be used as a ground cover.  But, they are not for full sun.  A bit of sun or filtered light is preferred.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $85

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $65

Tassle Fern Tassle Fern Tassle Fern
Tassle Fern Tassle Fern  

 

PHILODENDRON RED CONGO
AKA "CONGO ROJO"
 


ATTRACTIVE COMPANION PLANT FOR FILTERED LIGHT
DARK LEAVES, RED STEMS / RED BACKS OF LEAVES

TEN DAY SPECIAL 3 GALLON SIZE

This popular hybrid Philodendron never gets very large.  It doesn't climb much.  It's more of a rosette form of companion plant.  It might crawl along the ground a little.  People prefer this hybrid because, in shade, it has dark green leaves with a red tint to the back of the leaves and prominent red stems.  It is a filtered light companion plant.  It is not for full sun.  Cold hardiness is down to about a freeze or a bit colder.  We are offering very nicely sized (large & older) 3 gallon on Special.  But, there are limited numbers.  These can be used as a houseplant and can be mail ordered but take a big box for shipping.

REGULAR PRICE 3 GALLON $115
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 3 GALLON $85

Just mention this Blog Only Special for your discount at the time of purchase.


PHILODENDRON CONGO ROJO 10 INCH PHILODENDRON CONGO ROJO 10 INCH PHILODENDRON CONGO ROJO 10 INCH
PHILODENDRON CONGO ROJO 10 INCH PHILODENDRON CONGO ROJO 10 INCH PHILODENDRON CONGO ROJO 10 INCH
PHILODENDRON CONGO ROJO GARDEN PHILODENDRON CONGO ROJO GARDEN PHILODENDRON CONGO ROJO GARDEN

 

CANNA LILY AMBASSADOR
SUMMER BLOOMER DARK RED FLOWERS
CLUSTERING TROPICAL COMPANION PLANT

 

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE

Canna Lilies are a tropical or semi-tropical perennial plant.  They are not a true Lily but called a Lily.  They are probably most closely related to Gingers.  I've found the foliage is a bit less appealing in winter.  Then, in summer when it's warm, they do their thing with rapid growth of pretty foliage as shown here and a prolonged display of colorful blossoms.  They can take our coastal sun or part sun.  On special today is a difficult variety to obtain –
Ambassador.  It has dark red flowers in abundance.  They are just going out of blossom but will come back strong in late spring. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE $60

Remember:  Mention this Blog Special for your discount


Canna Ambassador red blossom 5g Canna Ambassador red blossom 5g Canna Ambassador red blossom 5g
Canna Ambassador red blossom 5g Canna Ambassador red blossom 5g Canna Ambassador red blossom 5g
Canna Ambassador red blossom 5g Canna Ambassador red blossom 5g Canna

 

 

                              FRIDAY, 15 SEPTEMBER, 2024  

FAN PALMS
THEY ALL JUST LOOK LIKE MEXICAN FAN PALMS

 
CORRECT?
I DON'T THINK SO.

All photos here are of fan palms.  They were taken in the wild, in botanical gardens or at the nursery.  But, all are of fan palms of one species or another.  I've not labeled them because I'm presenting them as a group.  From a structure point of view, a fan palm is a palm where all the segments (or leaflets) radiate from one central area.  These can form a whole circle of leaflets, a half circle, or less.  Compare this to a pinnate palm where leaflets come off a central leaf stalk.  I.e., leaflets protrude laterally from a central stem, typically to either side.

Over the years I have heard people say hundreds of time things like "I don't like fan palms; they all look like Mexican Fans".  Or, "Fan palms look like "desert palms".  Or, "Fan palms are so boring; I like normal palms".  If you were like me and had studied palms for almost forty years, what would you say to such comments?  I usually just say something like "I understand" and show them typical pinnate palms.  But, I am aware that nothing could be further from the truth.

There are such exotic fan palms of all types, shapes, sizes, color and textures.  I've tried to demonstrate their varied appearance here.  Fan palms comes from all corners of the world.  Some are large trees, others tiny.  Some species are for shade only.  Some have silver undersides.  And, others are almost white in color. 

And, fan palms add a different look and dimension to the garden.  A garden composed of only pinnate palms like King Palms is quite boring.  One has to mix fans into a garden to add diversity and interest.  I hope you can see with these photos how you could do this.

Fan Palm Fan Palm Fan Palm
Coccothrinax crinita Fan Palm Fan Palm
Fan Palm Fan Palm Fan Palm
Fan Palm Fan Palm Fan Palm
Coccothrinax species Fan Palm Fan Palm
Fan Palm Fan Palm hemithrinax ekmaniana
Fan Palm licuala grandis Fan Palm
Fan Palm Fan Palm Fan Palm
Fan Palm Fan Palm Licuala elegans
copernicia baileyana Fan Palm Fan Palm
Fan Palm Fan Palm Fan Palm
Fan Palm Fan Palm Fan Palm
Coccothrinax barbadensis Coccothrinax montana copernicia macrogossas
Cryosophila kerriodoxa Licuala species
Rhapis subtilis Serenoa Fan Palm
licuala ramsayi' licuala ramsayi variegated rhapis
Fan Palm Fan Palm Coccothrinax

 

RECYCLE YOUR USED PLASTIC CONTAINERS

AND OLD CARDBOARD BOXES / NEWSPAPERS


ECOLOGICAL AND HELPS OUR NURSERY
DISCOUNT ON PURCHASES OR NURSERY CREDIT ON CONTAINERS

I'd 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.  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.  We are especially looking for larger pots, 5g and bigger.  We accept any pot sizes, bands to large containers or boxes.  We especially seek the larger containers.   

So, don't give them to the garbage man for your local landfill.  Nursery pots are "forever" and don't dissolve in the landfills.  So, recycle them!  The fourth photo below shows all containers from a band to a 24 inch box, left to right.  If we are closed, just leave them in front of our gates with your name and phone number.

And, if they are sitting around waiting to go in the trash, drop off you used and soon to be discarded cardboard boxes and newspapers.  We load customer purchases into them and thus they are recycled from a usage standpoint.  We also recycle old newspapers.  Donating these means we purchase less new paper for packing plant and this is conservational. 

Thank you for doing this.  It's the right thing to do.


5 GALLON
5 gallon
15 GALLON
15 gallon
25 GALLON
25 gallon
All containers in a row
All containers in a row
   

 

BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII
THE MADAGASCAR PLATEAU COCONUT PALM

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

TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE

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 25 gallon plants on a ten day Special but only have a couple available.  This size is shown in the first six photos below.  We also have 5 gallon available.

Shown here are our 25 gallon sized plants that are very nicely sized for their containers.  Also shown are lots of photos of mature plants. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE LARGE 25 GALLON $795
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE LARGE 25 GALLON $625

 

BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII 25G BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII 25G BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII 25G
BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII 25G BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII 25G BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII 25G
     
     

WALLICHIA DISTICHA
FISHTAIL APPEARING SINGLE TRUNK PALM THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND



ALL LEAVES IN ONE PLANE

A VERY INTERESTING AND PECULIAR PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL LIMITED NUMBER 15 GALLON

This unusual palm that has all of its leaves in a single plane.  That is to say from the front, it is a fairly large, "Caryota-appearing" palm tree.  But, looking from the side, it is narrow and you can hardly see it.  The dictionary definition of "distichous" is:  "Arranged in two vertical rows on opposite sides of an axis: distichous leaves. "  In this case, the trunk of the palm is the axis. 

This species is native to the Himalaya Mountains in Asia, spreading from northern India across to northern Thailand.  There it grows at altitudes of up to 4000 feet.  Because of it's heritage and as you might guess, it does have some cold hardiness and can easily be grown in many areas of Southern California.  It tolerates temperatures down to about the mid to upper twenties F.  It prefers full sun.  Mature height is about 30 feet.  Usually this species is single trunk, but in the wild suckering specimens are found.  This is not to confuse it with another suckering species, Wallichia densiflora,  which is always a clustering species. 

Wallichia could be confused with Arenga and Caryota, both of which are also from the same part of the world.  All have leaflets that have jagged or toothed apical ends as shown here.  All also go through a flowering process that begins at the upper trunk and works its way down the trunk over time.  And, all have stems that die after suckering.  When there is only one stem (as with this species), the tree will die after it flowers.  Seeds of Wallichia disticha are very small as shown here.  The back sides of Wallichia and Arenga leaflets are silver whereas Caryotas are green on the back side.  This helps in identifying the genus.  Trunks of Wallichia disticha are also covered with dense brown fibers as shown here.  

We have very limited numbers of this species for sale.  I'm showing a 15 gallon plant as some mature trees.  For someone who likes different species, this one is for you.  But, I doubt you'll find it elsewhere.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $265

Wallichia disticha 15g Wallichia disticha 15g Wallichia disticha 15g
Wallichia disticha 15g Wallichia disticha 15g Wallichia disticha 15g
Wallichia disticha Wallichia disticha Wallichia disticha
Wallichia disticha Wallichia disticha Wallichia disticha

 

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 $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $220

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


Dictyosperma album rubrum 15g  Dictyosperma album rubrum 15g  Dictyosperma album rubrum 15g 
Dictyosperma album rubrum 15g  Dictyosperma album rubrum 15g  Dictyosperma album rubrum 15g 
Dictyosperma album rubrum  Dictyosperma album rubrum 15g  Dictyosperma album rubrum 

 

DYPSIS BARONII
IDEAL RARE SUCKERING MADAGASCAR PALM


MEDIUM SIZED MATURE – TOLERATES SOME COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON WITH DIVIDING TRUNK

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. Although there are single trunk specimens around, most will sucker.  Expect a mature height of about twenty feet or a bit more.

The 15 gallon shown below has a “splitting trunk”.  It's hard to see on the photos below.  Sometimes you will see this as opposed to basal suckers.  It is dividing into two trunks above the ground.  Not all will do this.  It’ll tolerate partial sun or full sun along the coast

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $220

 
Dypsis baronii 15g splitting trunk Dypsis baronii 15g splitting trunk Dypsis baronii 15g splitting trunk
Dypsis baronii 15g splitting trunk Dypsis baronii 15g splitting trunk Dypsis baronii 15g splitting trunk
Dypsis baronii  Dypsis baronii  Dypsis baronii 

 

COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA
THE OLD MAN PALM

MEDIUM SIZED TROPICAL SUN PALM
PLANTS AVAILABLE WITH A FOOT OR TWO OF HAIRY TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL
15 GALLON SIZE

The palm species shown here is 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 squat 15 gallon plant shown here typically take about ten to twelve years to produce this size.  Seedlings take about 4 years to produce a fan leaf.  One suffers through “blades of grass” for four years before palmate leaves appear.  The plants below are older in that their showing a foot or two of their hairy trunks.  These are near impossible to find and always expensive this size.  This is a dwarf species, unlikely to get over ten feet.  It loves sun and heat and is cold hardy somewhere between the mid to low 20's F.  And, by the way, those fibers/hairs covering the trunk are its hallmark.  We only have a handful of this size.  Estimated age is ten to fifteen yeasrs.  If we run out, we can get a few more by Special Order. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE OLD & LARGE 15 GALLON $450
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE 15 GALLON $350


COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA SQUAT 15 GALLON COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA SQUAT 15 GALLON COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA SQUAT 15 GALLON
COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA SQUAT 15 GALLON COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA SQUAT 15 GALLON
COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA IN GARDEN COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA IN GARDEN COCCOTHRINAX CRINITA IN GARDEN

 

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 singles & 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 $265
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $235


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

 

LIVISTONA SPECIES
THESE ARE FAN PALMS - MANY WITH GOOD COLD TOLERANCE


UNKNOW SPECIES BEING OFFERED
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

Livstona is a genus of fan palms with a broad distribution of many species.  Of the approximate 25 species, endemic locations spread from Africa to Asia, Australia and some South Pacific Islands.  The majority of species have green leaves, medium to tall stature and armed leaf stems.  Recently we got some plants that were identified by the grower as Livistona lanuginosa.  But, we are not sure this is the true species from our experience.  Therefore, we are just calling them "Livistona species".  We have several for sale in the 5 gallon size.  They have deeply divided green leaves with orange-brown spines on the petiole.  Leaflets are have one inch wide segments at this time as shown below.  Seeds came from a mother tree which is about 20 feet tall.  The mother tree has survived temperatures to the low 20's F.  As the palms for sale are, as of yet, without a definite identification, I'm showing several mature Livistona below to give the reader an idea of what these palms may look like in the future.  The 7th photo, by Darrell Occonor is of L. laniginosa in the wild.  The last photo is Livistona nitida by Mike Crisp.  Note:  Compare this to the Livistona laniginosa from another seed batch - see below.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE AS SHOWN $100


Livistona species unidentified 5g Livistona species unidentified 5g Livistona species unidentified 5g
Livistona species unidentified 5g Livistona species unidentified 5g Livistona species unidentified 5g
Livistona lanuginosa by Darrel Occonor, Palmpedia Livistona marie Livistona nitida by Mike Crisp, PACSOA

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX "TERACARPA"
THE BEST KING PALM EVER!

 


SO, WHAT IS IT?
ARE THEY EVER ON SALE?
YES, 10 DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE - SINGLES OR MULTIPLES


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 along the coast
It has a blueish crown shaft
It has a super thick trunk

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

Remember:  mention this Special to get your discount when you purchase!  This size can be mail ordered.

Archontophoenix teracarpa 5g Archontophoenix teracarpa 5g Archontophoenix teracarpa 5g
Archontophoenix teracarpa 5g Archontophoenix teracarpa 5g Archontophoenix teracarpa 5g
Archontophoenix teracarpa Archontophoenix teracarpa Archontophoenix teracarpa

   

CYPHOPHOENIX ELEGANS
THE ELEGANT PALM


MEDIUM SIZE – THIN TRUNK – CROWN SHAFTED
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 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 5 gallon sized plants that I photographed recently.  Also shown are 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 5 GALLON $155
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $135

Remember to mention this Special to get this price.  Limited numbers available.  The 5g size is shown in the first six photos.


Cyphophoenix elegans 5g Cyphophoenix elegans 5g Cyphophoenix elegans 5g
Cyphophoenix elegans 5g Cyphophoenix elegans 5g Cyphophoenix elegans 5g
Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans Cyphophoenix elegans

 

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



EASILY TOLERATES TEMPERATURES 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 $115

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 balboa park, san diego Trithrinax acanthicoma Trithrinax acanthicoma

 

CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA
NATIVE TO MOROCCO
THE SEMI-DWARF "BLUE MED FAN"



FULL HOT SUN - EXTREMELY COLD HARDY 
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON JUVENILE PLANTS

This interesting palm is a suckering blue fan palm is native to Morocco.  It's actually quite amazing that it took a long time for taxonomists to realize that it was a species and had it's own unique characteristics.  It's definitely a deep blue color but also it never gets as large as Chamaereops humilus.  The problem was that there were also native short clones of the later.  Chamaerops cerifera is one of the most cold hardy species for those of you in super cold areas.  I've had reports of it going down to 13 degrees F.  Mature height is about six feet or so.  Color is blue in hot sun.  This species does sucker.  Most importantly, with age and full sun, they will have blue leaves.  The plants on special here are one gallon plants.  They'd be easy to ship for mail order customers.  On occasion we do offer larger sizes.   
 
REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $70

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $60


Remember: Mention this Special for your discount. 


CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 1G CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 1G CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 1G
CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 1G CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 1G CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 1G
CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 5g CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA
CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA 15g Chamaerops cerifera CHAMAEROPS CERIFERA TS RPS

 

TRACHYCARPUS FORTUNEI
THE WINDMILL PALM
ONE OF THE MOST COLD HARDY PALMS

ONE GALLON SIZE ON TEN DAY SPECIAL

Trachyarpus fortunei is the most commonly available and commonly grown of the Windmill Palms.  It is of Chinese origin .  It is referred to as the Chinese Windmill Palm, the Windmill Palm, or the Chusan Palm.  Note how the term "Windmill Palm" can refer to this particular species or to the genus as a whole.   It is not uncommon to see it growing in colder areas of the United States, southern Europe, the Mediterranean and southern portions of Australia and Africa.  Cold tolerance is between five and ten degrees F.

Most specimens in many decades get to a height of 25 to 35 feet.  The actual trunk diameter is typically six to ten inches.  The leaves are typically about three feet in diameter and have variable division of the segments. Leaves are green on the upper side and below, but it is not uncommon for one can see a bit of blue discoloration to the underside of the leaf.  Distal leaf segments can flex downward toward the ground.  Shown here is our very shippable sized one gallon plants which we’re putting on Special.  

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE ONE GALLON $50

Trachycarpus fortunei 1g Trachycarpus fortunei 1g Trachycarpus fortunei 1g
Trachycarpus fortunei 1g Trachycarpus fortunei 1g Trachycarpus fortunei 1g
Trachycarpus fortunei Balboa Park San Diego Trachycarpus fortunei Balboa Park San diego Trachycarpus fortunei San Diego

 

ARCHONTOPHOENIX MAXIMA
LARGEST OF THE KING PALMS

 

GREEN LEAVES – STATELY TRUNK AND CROWN
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS

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 band sized seedlings.  This species tolerates full coastal sun and is cold hardy into the mid-twenties F.  Another interesting thing is that sometimes occurs is that they'll throw a new pink-red leaf.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS $50


The mature specimen photo is by Luke Nancarrow AU
.

Archontophoenix maxima band Archontophoenix maxima band Archontophoenix maxima band
Archontophoenix maxima band Archontophoenix maxima band Archontophoenix maxima band
Archontophoenix maxima San Diego Archontophoenix maxima 5G Archontophoenix maxima Luke Nancarrow

 

KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS
SUPER RARE SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM


NATIVE TO NEW CALEDONIA
THIN TRUNK - VERY ELEGANT
SPECIAL - VERY NICE BAND SIZE PLANTS

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 only have an excellent selection of large band sized plants.  This is an extremely rare species and we rarely have them for sale.

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


 Photos of large plant below by TS at RPS.


KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS
KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS
Kentiopsis pyriformis TS RPS Kentiopsis pyriformis Kentiopsis pyriformis

 

ENCEPHALARTOS KISAMBO
EXOTIC CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD


LONG GREEN UPRIGHT LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 2 GALLON SIZE

Encephalartos kisambo is a fast growing species native to Kenya where it grows at elevations of 3000 feet. It is a medium sized mature plant with trunks to eight feet.  Leaves are green to soapy green in color, stand erect and are six to ten feet long.  Leaflets are 1.5 inches wide, pungently tipped at the end, and spiny along the margins.  This is a fast growing species that can tolerate our coastal sun.  Far inland locations should use part day sun.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-twenties, perhaps a bit lower.  We had no leaf damage at the nursery in 2007 with lows of 25 degrees F.  Shown here are very nice 2 gallon plants we have on a ten day reduced price – see first six photos below.  These juveniles are about six years old and carrying about five leaves.  Also shown are other larger sizes we have but note we have many sizes in between the sale plant and the monster specimens below.

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON SIZE $165
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $135

Just mention this Blog special.  These are simple to ship by mail order

Encephalartos kisambo Encephalartos kisambo Encephalartos kisambo
Encephalartos kisambo Encephalartos kisambo Encephalartos kisambo
Encephalartos kisambo Encephalartos kisambo Encephalartos kisambo

 

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 SMALLER 5 GALLON SIZE

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 of this species are both blue and green forms, but this plant below is the blue type - especially when in full sun.  To get this color it will want full sun or an ample amount of sun.  It prefers a well draining soil.  Speed of growth of this cycad is good.  

The size we’re putting on special are younger 5 gallon with caudexes of about one to one & a half inches.  They can continue growing in these pots for about three years.  This batch should have blue-green leaves.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE 5 GALLON $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE THESE 5 GALLON $175

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


Encephalartos arenarius 5g caudex 1 inch Encephalartos arenarius 5g caudex 1 inch Encephalartos arenarius 5g caudex 1 inch
Encephalartos arenarius 5g caudex 1 inch Encephalartos arenarius 5g caudex 1 inch Encephalartos arenarius
Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius Encephalartos arenarius

 

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.  Caudex size is about 2 inches.

REGULAR PRICE THESE CITRUS POT AS DESCRIBED $295
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POTS THIS HYBRID $265

I have limited numbers available.  Easy to mail order.


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)

 

ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII
RARE BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD FOR FULL COASTAL SUN

 


A FAVORITE AMONG CYCAD ENTHUSIASTS

TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE WITH 2-3 INCH CADUEX

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 because they are not getting full sun and have lots of humidity.  Cold hardiness is about 21 to 22 degrees F.  In the desert only give it a few hours sun. 

Shown below and on sale are our citrus pot sized plants with caudexes of 2 to 3 inches.  These are easy to mail order.  Limited numbers available.

REGULAR PRICE CITRUS POT SIZE WITH CAUDEX 2 TO 3 INCHES $395
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE WITH CAUDEX 2 TO 3 INCHES $310


Encephalartos lehmannii cit pot 2 - 3 inches Encephalartos lehmannii cit pot 2 - 3 inches Encephalartos lehmannii cit pot 2 - 3 inches
Encephalartos lehmannii cit pot 2 - 3 inches Encephalartos lehmannii cit pot 2 - 3 inches Encephalartos lehmannii cit pot 2 - 3 inches
Encephalartos lehmannii Encephalartos lehmannii

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS – BLUE FORM
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD



BLUE STACKED LEAFLETS - MINIMAL IF ANY SPINES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANT

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 plant on Special should be a nice blue form.  Trunks of this species 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 15 gallon plant on special has a caudex of 5 inches.  It is shown below.  It could be mail ordered in a large box.  Below I'm also showing a few garden specimens of this species.  

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON, CAUDEX 5 INCHES $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL 15G CYCAD $665

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase to get this price! 


Encephalartos longifolius blue 15g 5 inches Encephalartos longifolius blue 15g 5 inches Encephalartos longifolius blue 15g 5 inches
Encephalartos longifolius blue 15g 5 inches Encephalartos longifolius blue 15g 5 inches Encephalartos longifolius blue 15g 5 inches
Encephalartos longifolius Encephalartos longifolius Encephalartos longifolius

 

BEAUCARNIA RECURVATA
THE PONYTAIL PALM - THE ELEPHANT FOOT PALM
MEDIUM HEIGHT - SWOLLEN BASE



LIKES FULL HOT SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL OVERSIZED 5 GALLON

The ponytail palm is native to Mexico.  It is known for it's large and wise base.  I've seen photos of a small Jeep parked on the base.  Basal width can reach up to six feet across.  The trunk, above this base is much thinner.  Leaves are thin, somewhat flexible but have a sharp edge that can cut you.  They do well in containers or in the ground.  Some have grown them indoors if there's very bright light.  Cold tolerance is into the low twenties or below.  They want full, hot sun.  The 5 gallon on sale are oversized with 4 to 5 inch thick bases with an age of five to six years.  This size is shown in the first 3 photos below.  But, we also have larger sizes available. This size is is easy to mail order.  Garden photos below by Wikipedia & Floridata websites.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $75


Becaurnia recurvata 5g Becaurnia recurvata 5g Becaurnia recurvata 5g
Becaurnia recurvata 15g Becaurnia recurvata 15g Becaurnia recurvata 15g
Becaurnia recurvata 5g Becaurnia recurvata 15g Becaurnia recurvata
Beaucarnea recurvata Wikipedia Beaucarnea recurvata floridata website Beaucarnea recurvata 20g

 

AUSTRALIAN TREE FERN
CYATHEA COOPERI


FAST GROWING, CAN GET TALLER
TEN DAY SPECIAL VERY LARGE 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.  This species tolerates coastal sun or part day sun.  It is cold hardy into the upper twenties or lower.  We're putting very tall 15 gallon on sale.  This size is shown in the first six photos.  These plants are more like a boxed size specimen tree.  The 8th photo below is by Plantlust Website and the last picture is by TS at RPS.

REGULAR PRICE THESE TALL 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE 15 GALLON $200


 
AUSTRALIAN TREE FERN 15 GALLON TALL  AUSTRALIAN TREE FERN 15 GALLON TALL  AUSTRALIAN TREE FERN 15 GALLON TALL 
AUSTRALIAN TREE FERN 15 GALLON TALL  AUSTRALIAN TREE FERN 15 GALLON TALL  AUSTRALIAN TREE FERN 15 GALLON TALL 
Australian Tree Fern 25G  Australian Tree Fern Plantlust Website (Custom)  CYATHEA COOPERI TS AT RPS WEBSITE 

 

VARIEGATED SHELL GINGER
NICE 5G SIZE READY FOR THE GARDEN

 



HANGING WHITE FLOWERS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This is a super popular variety of ginger that blossoms in the summer.  Blossoms are white with yellow and red throats.  Mature height of these plants is six to seven feet.  The leaves are prominently variegated with lighter green and yellow.  Blossoms are long lived but not fragrant.  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 last photo shows our 15g size of the green form of this species which is not on sale right now.

REGULAR PRICE 5G SIZE $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL $75

Just mention this Blog Special to get your discount.

Variegated Shell Ginger Variegated Shell Ginger Variegated Shell Ginger
Variegated Shell Ginger Variegated Shell Ginger Shell Ginger
Variegated Shell ginger Variegated Shell ginger Variegated Shell ginger

  

AECHMEA BLANCHETIANA
LARGER TYPE OF COLORFUL BROMELIAD

 

TOLERATES FULL SUN - FAIRLY COLD HARDY
DIFFICULT TO LOCATE - LEAF COLOR YELLOW, GREEN, RED OR ORANGE
SPECIAL ON RED & ORANGE ADE COLORED 5 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 yellow and a lighter red variety.  In the sun the yellow pick up some orange color and are called  “orange ade”.  These are a fantastic full sun companion plant.  The 5 gallon are good size and we’re putting both colors on sale.  Remember that this species of large Bromeliad are never cheap.  The last two garden photos are of the "orange ade" variety.

REGULAR PRICE NICE SIZE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL BOTH COLORS 5 GALLON $95


Aechmea blanchetianna red Aechmea blanchetianna red Aechmea blanchetianna red
Aechmea blanchetianna red Aechmea blanchetianna red Aechmea blanchetianna red
Aechmea blanchetianna red Aechmea blanchetianna red Aechmea blanchetianna red
Aechmea blanchetianna red Aechmea blanchetianna red Aechmea blanchetianna red

 

                              WEDNESDAY, 11 SEPTEMBER, 2024  

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM

BEING GROWN BY MANY IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
PICTURES SHOWING THIS SPECIES


This pinnate New World species is another favorite of mine.  When I started with palms about forty years ago, enthusiasts frowned when I mentioned this species and said "unfortunately, Phil, you can't grow the Royal Palm here".  Well, I didn't buy that and instead had optimism over it's possibly doing well here.  And, exactly the latter has proven to be the case.  If you can grow a King Palm, there's a good chance you can grow a Royal Palm.  In our coastal locality it's almost as slam-dunk to grow.  But, in Northern California it might be riskier.

There are multiple species of Roystonea.  The most common and sought after species is the Cuban Royal, Roystonea regia.  Natives to Florida are chagrined with the fact that "Roystonea elata" was determined not be a unique Royal Palm native to Florida but rather at most a variety of Roystonea regia.  Compared to the South American Royal Palm, Roystonea regia's leaves hang down past (lower than) the midway point of the crown.  Roystonea oleracea's leaves stop at the "half moon" point and don't hang down near the trunk. 

Royal Palms love heat and sun.  Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F.  They are fast growers.  We have a pretty good supply available.  I hope you like the photos I'm showing here.  Note how the base of the Royal Palm basal trunk is quite swollen and fat.  On up the trunk there is variable swelling present.   One picture here shows a really massive base on the Royal alhtough there is variability in the trunk diameter - tree to tree.

Of note, we always have an assortment of sizes available.  Through an associate we can offer large trunked out specimens up to 20 feet tall.

Roystonea regia Roystonea regia Roystonea regia
Roystonea regia Roystonea regia Roystonea regia
Roystonea regia Roystonea regia Roystonea regia
Roystonea regia Roystonea regia trunk  

 

ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS
MEDIUM TO LARGE CENTRAL AF
RICAN CYCAD

 

STOUT TRUNK, TOTALLY GREEN LEAVES
TOLERATES COASTAL FULL SUN
QUICK GROWING AND FAIRLY PROBLEM FREE CYCAD


This species from Zimbabwe, Africa, has always been a bit of a confusion because this area has several similar species and identifying them taxonomically was difficult.  For this reason, a few decades ago, plants were considered to be in the "Manikensis Complex".  Other put into this group later became species such as E. gratus, E. chimanimaniensis, concinus, bandula, etc.  Encephalartos manikensis is a medium sized cycad.  Trunks can get up to three or even five feet tall.  Clustering does occur.  Leaves are green and about six feet long, leaflets one inch wide.  Leaves are held upright at about a 45 degree angle. 

As it is a Central African cycad, one will find that it does better with humidity than some of the South African species and is not quite as cold hardy.  For this reason, it does quite well in the SE areas of the U.S. where cold is not an issue.  It will tolerate a freeze and can usually take temperatures down into the mid-twenties.  At our nursery, plants has easily withstood temperatures of 25 degrees F. without any problems.  Sun exposure is another issue that you must consider.  Along the coast, full sun is tolerated well.  In inland locations, consider part day sun.  In desert areas, filtered light would be best.  I'm showing here a whole assortment of plants, from boxed specimens to seedlings.  Also shown is a garden specimen.  We have a good supply of this species in all sizes for sale.


ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS in large container ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS large container
ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS 25 gallon ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS leaf ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS leaves
ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS close up leaves ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS crop of leaves ENCEPHALARTOS MANIKENSIS 45 gallon

 

CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
THE FLAME THROWER PALM
NEW RED EMERGING LEAF


DARK GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 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 15 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 15 GALLON $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $215


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 MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA TS RPS

  

PHOENIX RUPICOLA
THE CLIFF DATE PALM

 

MEDIUM SIZE -THINNER TRUNK THAN CANARY
FAIRLY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


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 here are our 15 gallon size which we are putting on sale.

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

Remember to mention this Special for this discount.  The isolated palm in the last row is from Balboa Park, San Diego.


PHOENIX RUPICOLA PHOENIX RUPICOLA PHOENIX RUPICOLA
PHOENIX RUPICOLA PHOENIX RUPICOLA PHOENIX RUPICOLA
PHOENIX RUPICOLA PHOENIX RUPICOLA  

 

BRAHEA NITIDA
NEAR COMPLETELY CIRCULAR FLAT GREEN LEAF
NATIVE TO MEXICO


CAN TOLERATE LESS THAN FULL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G 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 15g which I'm putting on sale.   At the nursery, this plant was in part sun only.  Note the 360 degrees presence of the leaflets and the dark green color when grown in filtered light.  There is no armor on the leaf stems.  Also notice that there is not as lot of division of the leaflets giving an almost solid fan leaf appearance.  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. Be aware we are almost sold out of this species.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $230


Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida old 15g
Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida old 15g
Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida Brahea nitida Justen Dobbs habitat

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM


LOVES SUN AND HEAT
PLANTS ON SPECIAL SIX FEET TALL

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE
 

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE TODAY'S LEAD POST


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


Remember to mention this Blog Special to get this price when you purchase.  Note:  All the garden photos below were taken in Southern California.  Yes, they grow easily in many areas here.

ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g
ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g ROYSTONEA REGIA 5g
ROYSTONEA REGIA ROYSTONEA REGIA ROYSTONEA REGIA
ROYSTONEA REGIA ROYSTONEA REGIA ROYSTONEA REGIA

 

DYPSIS SAINTELUCEI
SINGLE TRUNK - WHITE CROWN SHAFT
NATIVE TO MADAGASCAR



HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER - MEDIUM SIZE MATURE
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON FIVE GALLON WITH MULTIPLE 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.  Mature height is 15 to 20 feet.  The five gallon on Special are multiples with two to three palms per pot.  These would be easy to ship.

REGULAR PRICE FIVE GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE FIVE GALLON MULTIPLES $110

You must mention this Internet-only special when purchasing to get this price.  Limited supplies available.  The 7th photo is c/o TS at RPS.


Dypsis saintlucei 5g Dypsis saintlucei 5g Dypsis saintlucei 5g
Dypsis saintlucei 5g Dypsis saintlucei 5g Dypsis saintlucei 5g
Dypsis saintlucei Dypsis saintlucei TS RPS Dypsis saintlucei

 

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 $115

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

 

RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA
THE SHAVING BRUSH OR FEATHER DUSTER PALM


ROBUST GROWER - SWOLLEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE


The Shaving Brush Palm is super popular here in Southern California and is native to New Zealand.  It is fairly rare and sometimes difficult to find.  This is suprising as it's so beautiful and can be grown by many.  It is cold hardy down to the low 20's F. and perhaps even into the upper teens F.  Along the coast it can tolerate full sun or part sun.  Inland areas should give it a few hours of sun - best is morning sun.  The trunk is medium sized and mature height is about 25 feet.  Leaves are green and upright.  The crown shaft is green or lime green and swollen.  Shown below in he first five photos are our 5 gallon size followed by a 15 gallon.  We have an assortment of sizes available.


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

Remember:  Mention this Special when purchasing. 

Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island
Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island Rhopalostylis sapida
Rhopalostylis sapida Rhopalostylis sapida Rhopalostylis sapida

 

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 $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $125


 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 2 GALLON

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 DASY SPECIAL 2 GALLON $70

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 $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $55

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

DYPSIS PRESTONIANA band DYPSIS PRESTONIANA band DYPSIS PRESTONIANA band
DYPSIS PRESTONIANA band Dypsis prestoniana

   

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS – BLUE FORM
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD


BLUE STACKED LEAFLETS - MINIMAL IF ANY SPINES
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE WITH CAUDEX 3 INCHES

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 plants on Special should be a nice blue form.  Trunks of this species 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 citrus pot size on sale came from blue parents and will become more blue out of the greenhouse and in full sun.  This size is easy to mail order.  BTW, this actual plant shown below is definitely not the green form.  You can see the leaves are gray colored and, outdoors in the sun should be blue over time.  The garden photos below show a blue plant,, a green plant and something in between.

REGULAR PRICE CITRUS POT WITH  3 INCH CAUDEX $450
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE 3 INCH CAUDEX $325

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase to get this price!  Easy to mail order, weather permitting.


Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches
Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches Encephalartos longifolius cit pot  3 inches Encephalartos longifolius cit pot 3 inches
Encephalartos longifolius Encephalartos longifolius

 

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

  

CYCAS PETRAEA
SUPER RARE GREEN CYCAD FROM THAILAND
 
FOR SOMEONE WHO WANTS A CYCAD NO ONE ELSE HAS



TWENTY YEAR OLD SPECIMEN WITH VASE SHAPED TRUNK
AS FAR AS WE KNOW, A SPECIMEN LIKE THIS AVAILABLE NOWHERE ELSE
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 PRICE THIS ACTUAL PLANT $1825

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

 
 
CYCAS REVOLUTA - THE SAGO PALM
MOST POPULAR CYCAD IN THE WORLD


MEDIUM THICK TRUNK - GREEN LEAVES
EASY TO GROW IN MOST AREAS - TOLERATES FULL COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD SIZED 2 GALLON PLANTS

Cycas revoluta, the common "Sago Palm", is native to areas of Japan and China.  It is an extremely easy to grow cycad that requires little maintenance.  It is also slow growing with fifty year old specimens attaining a trunk height of five feet or a bit more.  Leaves are green as shown below, typically five feet long on older plants and have barbs on the stems.  Leaflets are "revolute" - cupped on the underside.  Stems can be twelve to sixteen feet thick in decades.  Male and female cones are quite different, as with all species of this genus.  Male cones look like a corn cob without the kernels.  Females are a scrambled clump of "tan leaflets" without any emerging structure.  You need both sexes to get viable seeds.  I'd estimate that there are well over a million plants of this species in gardens worldwide.  It tolerates full sun in coastal areas but not in desert climates (where it needs sun protection).  Cold tolerance is perhaps as low as 16 degrees F - certainly into the high teens.  It can also be grown as a houseplant when smaller and is ideal for a patio plant. 

Below you will see large 2 gallon plants that we're putting on Special.  They have an average of four inch caudexes and can easily be mail ordered.

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON SIZE WITH 4 INCH CAUDEXES $120
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 2 GALLON AS DESCRIBED $95



Sago Palm, Cycas revoluta 2g 4 inches Sago Palm, Cycas revoluta 2g 4 inches Sago Palm, Cycas revoluta 2g 4 inches
Sago Palm, Cycas revoluta 2g 4 inches Sago Palm, Cycas revoluta 2g 4 inches Cycas revoluta Sago Palm 2g 4 inches
Cycas revoluta garden Cycas revoluta garden Cycas revoluta garden

 

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 $245

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

 

BIRDS NEST ANTHURIUM
ANTHURIUM HOOKERI
THE PERFECT COMPANION PLANT


NEVER OVER ABOUT SIX FEET TALL
LEATHERY, DARK GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 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 5 GALLON $80

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 

 

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

 

SPANISH MOSS
TILLANDSIA USNEOIDES


HANGS FROM TREES, FENCES & POLES
TAKES LITTLE WATER - TYPE OF BROMELIAD
TEN DAY SPECIAL

Spanish Moss is actually a small, wispy type of Bromeliad - a flowering type of plant.  The natural habitat for this plant ranges from the southern U.S. down through Mexico into Central and South America.  It is even found in Australia.  It is an epiphytic plant that hangs onto almost anything it can find.  It loves to hang from tree branches or trunks.  It requires very little water and will grow without any applied fertilizer.  We are selling small clumps we've attached to wood.  Or, we can ship them without the wood.  You  can hang them anywhere you want.  Just spray them once in a while with water.  These clumps are easy to ship.

REGULAR PRICE $50
TEN DAY SPECIAL $40
Mention this special for your Discount.

 
 

spanish moss Spanish Moss Spanish Moss
Spanish Moss Spanish moss  Spanish moss mounted 

                     

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

 

 

                              MONDAY, 9 SEPTEMBER, 2024   
 

CARYOTA MITIS
NICE INTERIOR QUALITY 5G PLANTS


FOR THE HOME, OFFICE, PATIO OR GARDEN
LIKE FILTERED LIGHT
LIMITED NUMBERS

Caytoa mitis is a suckering type of Fishtail Palm from Asia.  In habitat, plants can get up to twenty or twenty five feet.  In our locality they tend to be shorter.  They do sucker forming a clump of stems.  Trunk diameter is typically about four inches.  Leaves are bi-pinnate, branching.  Leaflets are as shown below.  The plants shown here are imported from Hawaii and perfect for a business office, hotel lobby or bank.  Or, for your living room.  They like filtered light outdoors and are cold hardy to the mid to lower 20's F.  Shown are our 5g size.  We also have exterior grade 15g for sale (not shown here).  These 5g plants are five to six feet tall in their pots.  They are not difficult to mail order via UPS.  If we run out of this size, we can usually obtain more to sell.

Caryota mitis interior quality 5g Caryota mitis interior quality 5g Caryota mitis interior quality 5g
Caryota mitis interior quality 5g Caryota mitis interior quality 5g Caryota mitis interior quality 5g
Caryota mitis interior quality 5g Caryota mitis interior quality 5g Caryota mitis

 

BLACK ROSE
AEONIUM ARBOREUM

BLACK-RED COMPANION PLANT

SMALL AND EASY TO GROW
AND, JUST FOR FUN - SHOWING OTHER COLORS

Country or area of origin: Canary Islands
Mature height: In ground, typically 2 to 3 feet
Sun Requirements:  Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance:  To mid-20's F.   
Water Requirements:  Water conserving
Rate of Growth:  Fast growing in ground
Sizes Available: 1g, 2g and 5g - varies
Regular Prices:  1 gallon size as shown $35 - $40
Size shown:  1 gallon
Comments:
This dwarf succulent is best known for it's almost black leaves.  It loves sun and is easy to grow.  Over time plants will have forking trunks with tons of leaves.  It's easy color for the garden without getting too big.  The first six photos show a one gallon planted in the ground in front of our nursery about 18 months ago.  Note that it's in flower now, showing a super yellow color.  These plants can be shipped.  Our availability varies, but we try to always have this black variety in stock.  We also have green and several variegated forms as well.  I'm showing other colors of this species in the bottom row. 

Aeonium Black Rose Aeonium Black Rose Aeonium Black Rose
Aeonium Black Rose Aeonium Black Rose Aeonium Black Rose
Aeonium Black Rose Aeonium Black Rose Aeonium Black Rose
Aeonium Aeonium Aeonium

 

CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
THE FLAME THROWER PALM
NEW RED EMERGING LEAF


DARK GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 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 15 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 15 GALLON $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $225


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 MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA TS RPS

  

ARCHONTOPHOENIX PURPUREA
THE PURPLE CROWN SHAFT KING PALM

 

VERY BEAUTIFUL - GOOD GROWER
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON MULTIPLES

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 15 gallon multiples which we're putting on sale (first 6 photos below).  These are very good sized palms for their containers.  Shown is a double but we also should have some tripples (three plants per container).  Also available are large 5g and 1g sizes. 

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON MULTIPLES $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON MULTIPLES $220


Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase to get this discount.  The first garden photo is of a double.  The last garden photo shows the crown shaft color quite well.


Archontophoenix purpurea double 15g Archontophoenix purpurea double 15g Archontophoenix purpurea double 15g
Archontophoenix purpurea double 15g Archontophoenix purpurea double 15g Archontophoenix purpurea double 15g
Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea Archontophoenix purpurea double 15g

 

BRAHEA NITIDA
NEAR COMPLETELY CIRCULAR FLAT GREEN LEAF
NATIVE TO MEXICO


CAN TOLERATE LESS THAN FULL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G 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 15g which I'm putting on sale.   At the nursery, this plant was in part sun only.  Note the 360 degrees presence of the leaflets and the dark green color when grown in filtered light.  There is no armor on the leaf stems.  Also notice that there is not as lot of division of the leaflets giving an almost solid fan leaf appearance.  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. Be aware we are almost sold out of this species.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $230


Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida old 15g
Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida old 15g
Brahea nitida old 15g Brahea nitida Brahea nitida Justen Dobbs habitat

 

TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA
AKA TRITHRINAX BRASILIENSIS


SPINY TRUNK - MEDIUM SIZE FAN PALM
EASILY TOLERATES INTO THE TEENS F.
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G 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. Also, when fruiting the fruit is a golden yellow color.

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

Remember:  The 15 gallon on sale are shown in the first five pictures below.  The fifth photo shows a close up of the trunk of an older garden plant.


TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA 15G TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA 15G TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA 15G
TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA 15G TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA 15G TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA 15G
TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA 15G TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA 15G TRITHRINAX ACANTHICOMA 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 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 $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $225

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 $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $120

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

      

RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA
THE SHAVING BRUSH OR FEATHER DUSTER PALM


ROBUST GROWER - SWOLLEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE

The Shaving Brush Palm is super popular here in Southern California and is native to New Zealand.  It is fairly rare and sometimes difficult to find.  This is surprising as it's so beautiful and can be grown by many.  It is cold hardy down to the low 20's F. and perhaps even into the upper teens F.  Along the coast it can tolerate full sun or part sun.  Inland areas should give it a few hours of sun - best is morning sun.  The trunk is medium sized and mature height is about 25 feet.  Leaves are green and upright.  The crown shaft is green or lime green and swollen.  Shown below in he first five photos are our 5 gallon size followed by a 15 gallon.  We have an assortment of sizes available.

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

Remember:  Mention this Special when purchasing. 

Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island
Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island Rhopalostylis sapida great barrier island Rhopalostylis sapida
Rhopalostylis sapida Rhopalostylis sapida Rhopalostylis sapida

 

PHOENIX RUPICOLA
THE CLIFF DATE PALM


MEDIUM SIZE - THINNER TRUNK & STATURE THAN CANARY PALM
FAIRLY COLD HARDY - TOLERATES FULL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE


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 ).  Growth rate is medium, it tolerates full sun and is cold hardy into the mid-twenties or lower.  Shown here is a 5g plant which we are putting on sale.  We also have a limited number of 15g (quite nice) available.  The 5g size are easy to ship.  

REGULAR PRICE 5G $115
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $90


Easy to ship.  But, 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

 

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 $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZDE $50

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

 

CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS
SINGLE TRUNK, DWARF UNDERSTORY PALM

 

PREFERS FILTERED LIGHT – NEVER TALL
SIMPLE UNDIVIDED LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED PLANTS


This species has a native distribution that spreads from Southern Mexico down throughout Central America.  There are some minor differences in plants from the various areas.  Chamaedorea geonomiformis is single trunk and has a simple, bifed leaf as shown here.  It's mature height ranges from two feet up to about five feet tall.  When trying to identify this species, particularly look at the leaf size, shape, length and width.  You'll note that the leaves of this species are longer than they are wide.  Compare this to C. ernesti-agusti below that has very wide leaflets.  Leaf color is green.  Vertical growth is slow.  We only have a few of these for sale.  I'd estimate cold hardiness into the upper teens perhaps but most assuredly to the mid-twenties.  These plants were grown from seeds from Don Hodel’s personal plants.  This species does not like direct sun.

Also, be aware that this is a rare and desirable species and seldom seen for sale.  We're putting our band size on sale.  Very easy to mail order, weather permitting.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $70
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $60

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.  This size can be mail ordered.

CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS
CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS Chamaedorea geonomiformis CHAMAEDOREA GEONOMIFORMIS

 

CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA
DWARF SINGLE TRUNK

 

UNDERSTORY SUPER RARE MINIATURE PALM
SIMPLE LEAVES - NEVER OVER A FEW FEET TALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE


This dwarf understory palm species has entire, small leaves, a very thin trunk the size of a pencil and a mature height never over two to three feet.  It comes from high elevation mountainous areas of Mexico.  It's extremely rare and hard to find.  The seedlings we're offering this year came from domestic plants in San Diego County.  They are about a year old.  We got these in last year and about ten sold out quickly.  I rarely have them for sale.  They need a filtered light environment and should be cold hardy at least into the mid-twenties F.  I can mail order these.  Limited numbers available!

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $75

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $65


Remember:  Mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase.  These can be mail ordered - weather permitting.

CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA band CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA band CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA band
CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA band CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA
CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA Chamaedoea tenella Chamaedorea tenella HJD

 

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 $75

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 NUBIMONTANUS
SUPER RARE BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD


MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - TOLERATES COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZED PLANT WITH 2 INCH CAUDEX   

This extemely rare blue cycad is endemic to the Limpopo province, South Africa.  The species is almost gone in the wild, populations are small and scattered.  It is among the species located in the Transvaal region of South Africa, and is highly sought after.  This is a small to medium sized species.  Leaf length can range between one to two meters, and stems can reach a height of two and a half to three meters with ancient plants.  Leaf color is blue to blue-grey.  The leaflets and petioles are mildly armed and can be almost completely unarmed in some cases.  Compared to the similar E. lehmannii, the princeps leaflets face into the central leaf crown whereas lehmannii face upwards toward the sky.  This cycad is a small to medium sized species.  Leaf length can range between one to two meters, and stems can reach a height of two and a half to three meters with ancient plants. In coastal and inland areas, this plant prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial sun.  For desert areas, I could recommend partial sun or filtered light.  We are offering our citrus pot sized plants with 2 inch caudexes on special.  They have caudexes of 2 inches.  The last row of photos shows mature plants of this species.  These plants can easily be shipped.  We may also have older and larger plants available.  Finally, I want to emphasizxe that this is an extremely rare and sought after species.

REGULAR PRICE CITRUS POT SIZED PLANTS WITH 2 INCH CAUDEX $600
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT WITH 2 INCH CAUDEX $375

Encephalartos nubimontanus cit pot 1.75-2 in Encephalartos nubimontanus cit pot 1.75-2 in Encephalartos nubimontanus cit pot 1.75-2 in
Encephalartos nubimontanus cit pot 1.75-2 in Encephalartos nubimontanus cit pot 1.75-2 in Encephalartos nubimontanus cit pot 1.75-2 in
Encephalartos nubimontanus Encephalartos nubimontanus Encephalartos nubimontanus

 

ENCEPHALARTOS MUNCHII
A RARE CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD


BLUE – GREEN SPINY LEAFLETS
SUPER DIFFICULT TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON WITH 2.5 INCH CAUDEX

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.  We are putting 5 gallon sized plants with caudexes of 2.5 inches.  We also have some in 5g and citrus pot in 3 to 4 inches.  Most will have either blue or blue green leaves. (from blue parents) but need age and sun to show the blue.  These are easy to mail order, weather permitting.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON WITH 2.5 INCH CAUDEX $425
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON WITH CAUDEX 2.5 INCHES $300

Remember that we do have larger plants available, even for mail order.


Encephalartos munchii 5g 2.5 in Encephalartos munchii 5g 2.5 in Encephalartos munchii 5g 2.5 in
Encephalartos munchii 5g 2.5 in Encephalartos munchii 5g 2.5 in Encephalartos munchii 5g 2.5 in
Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii Encephalartos munchii

 

ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS – THE GREEN VARIETY
RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 

MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - LIKES COASTAL SUN
STUNNING SPINY LEAVES - GREEN WITH POSSIBLE HINTS OF BLUE
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 15 GALLON PLANT

Encephalartos arenarius is from the coastal dunes and forest close to Alexandria in the Eastern Cape of South Africa.  This species is 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.  With an older mature specimen you'll often find three to five feet of trunk and and overall height of six to ten feet.  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 of this species are both blue and green forms, but this plant below most likely the green variety.  In sun, it may show some blue color.  It prefers a well draining soil.  Speed of growth of this cycad is good.  The plant shown here is in a 15 gallon container.  Caudex size is 3.5 inches.  This plant can be mail ordered if needed.  If this plant sells, we do have other 15g of similar size at the same End of Summer Sale discount.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE 15 GALLON $575
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT $525


Encephalartos arenarius 15g caudex 3.5 inches Encephalartos arenarius 15g caudex 3.5 inches Encephalartos arenarius 15g caudex 3.5 inches
Encephalartos arenarius 15g caudex 3.5 inches Encephalartos arenarius 15g caudex 3.5 inches Encephalartos arenarius 15g caudex 3.5 inches
eNCEPHALOARTOS ARENARIUS Encephalartos arenarius garden Encephalartos arenarius garden

 

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 photos are first by container crazy CT website followed 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 as well as the 5g size which we also have. 
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 $50
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $40


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 maurellii Red Banana photo by container crazy CT website  Ensete ventricosa Maurelii BY LINDA COCHRAN  

   

DAYLIRION WHEELERI
THE DESERT SPOON



NATIVE TO NORTHERN MEXICO AND BORDER AREAS IN THE U.S.
LOVES HEAT, BLUE COLOR, WATER CONSERVING
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLD 15G SIZE

This blue succulent type plant is a sister plant to the popular Dasylirion longissiumum, the Mexican Grass Plant.  It loves heat, sun and is water conserving.  It is also very slow growing.  The 15g we're putting on special are well over ten years old - see first five photos below.  It is an evergreen dwarf plant that never gets over about five feet tall.  The trunk is moderately thick and below the blue-green foliage.  The leaves are about an inch wide and are armed with barbs.  Cold tolerance is into the upper twenties F.  This is not an easy plant to locate.

REGULAR PRICE OLD 15G PLANTS $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE/AGE $200

Remember to mention this Special at the time of purchase.


Dasylirion wheeler Dasylirion wheeler Dasylirion wheeler
Dasylirion wheeler Dasylirion wheeler Dasylirion wheeler

 

STRELITZIA NICOLAI
THE GIANT BIRD OF PARADISE


LOTS OF PEOPLE LOVE THIS PLANT
WE DON'T, BUT WE STILL SUPPLY THEM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


The Giant Bird of Paradise is a large clumping, banana-like tree that can get to a height of 25 feet, suckers and has green six foot leaves and a tough woody trunk.  It tends to sucker aggressively and spreads rapidly.  As you may realize, it requires a lot of maintenance.  Unkempt, this plant looks shabby with old leaves and debris.  And, it is super invasive.  It can lift foundations of houses or tilt a deck.  Yet, people like it and seek this plant out.  I think this is because it's readily available and people like "banana leaves".  We try to talk them out of it.  It is native to Eastern Africa and a few surrounding islands.  I'm showing you a nice looking garden specimen below but guarantee you if I showed you many others, you'd be overwhelmed and decide on something else.
Regardless, many people insist on this species so we do offer them.  Showing 15 gallon plants below.


TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS $125

Giant Bird of Paradis Strelitzia nicolai 15g  Giant Bird of Paradis Strelitzia nicolai 15g  Giant Bird of Paradis Strelitzia nicolai 15g 
Giant Bird of Paradis Strelitzia nicolai 15g  Giant Bird of Paradis Strelitzia nicolai 15g  Strelitzia nicolai Giant Bird of Paradise

 

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  

 

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

 

EPIDENDRON ORCHID
ASSORTED BLOSSOM COLORS


REEDSTEM TYPE TERRESTRIAL ORCHID
HARD TO FIND COLORS - PINK, PURPLE & OTHER COLORS
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 and the blossom of a purple. 

REGULAR PRICE THESE FIVE GALLON $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $125

The pink 5g are in the first two rows of photos.  The last row is of smaller purple, 1 gallon size.


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
     

                             
                               FRIDAY, 6 SEPTEMBER, 2024

CYPHOPHOENIX NUCELE
RARE, ELEGANT, THIN TRUNK PALM



UPRIGHT LEAVES
FROM NEW CALEDONIA

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 shown is a 15g but we also have 5g plants (although supply is super limited and they may sell out).  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.


Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele
Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele
Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele Cyphophoenix nucele

 

ALOCASIA SPECIES
ELEPHANT EAR PLANTS
FOUR TYPES SHOWN HERE
LUSH, EXOTIC, QUICK TROPICAL LOOK AT A FEW SPECIES


Alocasia are a type of suckering tropical plant that many know as the "Elephant Ear Plant".  Most that one will see commercially are hybrids that have no native home.  With this said, natural species are typically found in the Old World and Asia.  The main differences between these plants are the overall height, the size of the leaves, the aggressiveness of growth, coloring and cold tolerance.  I am showing you here four hybrid varieties, each with their own charm.  Figure that they are not for full sun unless you are told otherwise.  But, the first variety can take full coastal sun.

1.  Row 1 and 2:  Alocaia "Cal - Odora", a dwarf species.  It rarely gets over five feet and has leaves that are typically under 12 inches wide.  Leaf color is green.  People like this one b/c of its dwarf size.
2.  Row 3:  Alocasia Calidora, a bigger species that will form significant trunks and has a larger leaf.  Color is green.  Leaves can get three feet long.
3.  Row 4:  Alocasia portoro, an attractive hybrid with an arrowhead shaped leaf and prominent leaf veins.  It can get to about six feet or a bit more.
4.  Row 5:  Alocasia species "black stem", a super attractive and charming species with black stems, silver to the back of the leaves and a medium height to five feet.  But, it's not as cold hardy as those above.

We presently have all of these available with some in limited numbers.  Also, from time, we get very exotic natural species that tend to be smaller and are quite stunning.

Alocasia Cal - Odora Alocasia Cal - Odora Alocasia Cal - Odora
Alocasia Cal - Odora Alocasia Cal - Odora Alocasia Cal - Odora
Alocasia Calidora Alocasia Calidora Alocasia Calidora
Alocasia portoro Alocasia portoro Alocasia portoro
Alocasia black stem Alocasia black stem Alocasia black stem

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

 

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.  Note:  5 gallon also on Sale - see post below.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $225

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

 

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 $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $225

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

 

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 $245

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $225


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

   

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 $115


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

 

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 GALLON $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $120


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

 

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 $135
DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $115


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

 

TRACHYCARPUS FORTUNEI
THE WINDMILL PALM
ONE OF THE MOST COLD HARDY PALMS

5 GALLON ON TEN DAY SPECIAL

Trachyarpus fortunei is the most commonly available and commonly grown of the Windmill Palms.  It is of Chinese origin .  It is referred to as the Chinese Windmill Palm, the Windmill Palm, or the Chusan Palm.  Note how the term "Windmill Palm" can refer to this particular species or to the genus as a whole.   It is not uncommon to see it growing in colder areas of the United States, southern Europe, the Mediterranean and southern portions of Australia and Africa.  Cold tolerance is between five and ten degrees F.

Most specimens in many decades get to a height of 25 to 35 feet.  The actual trunk diameter is typically six to ten inches.  The leaves are typically about three feet in diameter and have variable division of the segments. Leaves are green on the upper side and below, but it is not uncommon for one can see a bit of blue discoloration to the underside of the leaf.  Distal leaf segments can flex downward toward the ground.  Shown here is our 5 gallon size on Special (first five photos).  They aren’t super big so we’re selling them at a great price.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 5 GALLON $75

Remember to mention this Special when you purchase.  Note – Easy to mail order.


Trachycarpus fortunei Trachycarpus fortunei Trachycarpus fortunei
Trachycarpus fortunei Trachycarpus fortunei TRACHYCARPUS FORTUNEI

  

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 $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $120 

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

 

BURRETIOKENTIA HAPALA
A GREAT NEW CALEDONIAN PALM FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

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


Burretiokentia hapala Burretiokentia hapala Burretiokentia hapala
Burretiokentia hapala Burretiokentia hapala Burretiokentia hapala

  

CHAMAEDOREA COSTARICANA
ONE OF THE BEST BAMBOO PALMS

SUCKERING UNDERSTORY PALM - MEDIUM HEIGHT
EASY TO GROW - A GREAT INTERIOR PALM 
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS


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 diameer 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 lower 20's F. 

Below I'm showing in the first six photos our starter plants in band size.   But, they are not small.  Most are 18 to 24 inches tall.  Some have started to sucker.  We do have larger sizes available.  The bands would be easy to mail order.  BTW, this species is fairly difficult to find.  The 8th photo is c/o TS at RPS.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $55


Chamaedorea costaricana band Chamaedorea costaricana band Chamaedorea costaricana band
Chamaedorea costaricana band Chamaedorea costaricana band Chamaedorea costaricana band
CHAMAEDOREA COSTARICANA CHAMAEDOREA COSTARICANA ts rps CHAMAEDOREA COSTARICANA

 

CHAMAEDOREA GLAUCIFOLIA
SUPER SIMILAR TO C. PLUMOSA


TAKES A FAIR AMOUNT OF SUN – SINGLE STEM, THIN TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED MULTIPLES

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.  And, it too, can tolerate near full coastal sun.  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.  The seedlings on sale are multiples, usually three per pot.  It is a durable species and seem exempt from fungal problems that can plague C. plumosa.  Cold hardiness is about 25 degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZED MULTIPLES $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE SEEDLINGS $50

 

Chamaedorea glaucifolia band multiples Chamaedorea glaucifolia band multiples Chamaedorea glaucifolia band multiples
Chamaedorea glaucifolia band multiples Chamaedorea glaucifolia band multiples Chamaedorea glaucifolia band multiples
Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia Chamaedorea glaucifolia

 

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. Note, our band size are larger presently than shown below.

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


Dypsis arenarum band Dypsis arenarum band Dypsis arenarum band
Dypsis arenarum band Dypsis arenarum rps Dypsis arenarum band

 

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 $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE THESE BAND SIZED SEEDLING $55

Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii
Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii Encephalartos altensteinii

 

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

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 to four 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

CYCAS THOUARSII
MEDIUM SIZED - SOFT GREEN LEAVES
FAST GROWING, EXOTIC APPEARING


TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL VERY OLD CYCAD


The first six photos here show a plant I'm putting on special.  It is an old cycad we've been growing for well over a decade.  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.  Shipping possible but it'd take a very tall box.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $850
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $750

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 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

 

ZAMIA FURFURACEA
THE CARDBOARD CYCAD
COMPACT GREEN DWARF CYCAD WITH NO SPINES


TEN DAY SPECIAL MATURE 30 YEAR OLD CYCAD

This popular dwarf cycad is from Mexico and rarely gets over four feet tall.  Mature, thihs species typically reaches a height of three to four feet.  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 a mature specimen cycad with many heads of leaves.  It has five or maybe six individual caudexes.  Each caudex is an estimated 4 inches.  It’s holding about 30 leaves.

REGULAR PRICE THIS MATURE CLUSTERING CYCAD $1095
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $795

You must mention this Blog only special when purchasing to get this price
. BTW, I'd estimate that this plant will be the size of the 8th photo below in several years.


Zamia furfuracea 15g cluster, six caudexes in 2 to 4 inch range Zamia furfuracea 15g cluster, six caudexes in 2 to 4 inch range Zamia furfuracea 15g cluster, six caudexes in 2 to 4 inch range
Zamia furfuracea 15g cluster, six caudexes in 2 to 4 inch range Zamia furfuracea 15g cluster, six caudexes in 2 to 4 inch range Zamia furfuracea 15g cluster, six caudexes in 2 to 4 inch range
Zamia furfuracea Zamia furfuracea Zamia furfuracea

  

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 SALE PRICE THESE HUGE 10 GALLON $105


Phlebodium species Phlebodium species Phlebodium species
Phlebodium species Phlebodium species Phlebodium species
Phlebodium species  

 

ALOCASIA SUMO
HYBRID ALOCASIA - EXOTIC WITH SOME COLD HARDINESS


MEDIUM SIZED, LUSH TROPICAL COMPANION PLANT

TEN DAY SPECIAL SALE 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 $37.50


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  

 

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

 

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

  

BRAZILIAN RED CLOAK
MEGASKEPASMA ERYTHROCHLAMYS

 

MEDIUM SIZED BUSH / TREE WITH PROMINENT RED BLOSSOMS
NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND FOR SALE
ONLY A HANDFUL AVAILABLE

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 & 1.5 GALLON SIZE

The Brazilian Red Cloak is super rare and hard to find.  This is probably because most propagation is by cuttings only.  And, you have to have a mother plant to do this.  We obtained two mother plants about eight years ago and have established them here in Encinitas.  We began propagating about a year or two ago.  This is considered a "bush" but can reach heights of eight feet or more.  It blooms red when the weather is more cool - November to April.  The terminal leaves turn red and hide the small white blossoms within (thus the "cloak" in the name).  The red colored photos are of our mother plants.  These can be mail ordered but you have to be in at least a 9A environment to grow it.  Cold tolerance is down to about a freeze.  We only have a few for sale.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 & 1.5 GALLON $50

Note:  Our one gallon size is on the right of the first two photos.  The larger 5 gallon size has sold out.  The last photo is c/o Gumtree.com website.  The boxed tree is our Nursery tree which we use for propagation of this impossible to find species.
 
 
Brazilian Red Cloak Megaskepasma erythrochlamys Brazilian Red Cloak Megaskepasma erythrochlamys Brazilian Red Cloak 1.5 gallon  
Brazilian Red Cloak 1.5 gallon Brazilian Red Cloak 1.5 gallon Brazilian Red Cloak Megaskepasma erythrochlamys  
Brazilian Red Cloak Megaskepasma erythrochlamys Brazilian Red Cloak Megaskepasma erythrochlamys Brazilian Cloak Tree by Gumtree.com website  

 

 

                              WEDNESDAY, 4 SEPTEMBER, 2024

WASHINGTONIA FILIFERA
THE DESERT OR CALIFORNIA FAN PALM

 

COLD HARDY TO ABOUT 15 – 18 DEGREES
SUN AND HEAT TOLERANT – STOUT TRUNK
A FAVORITE FAN PALM FOR COLDER, DESERT TYPE CLIMATES


This is a single trunked fan palm from Baja, Mexico with extension of its distribution into Southern California.  There are native stands of this species in Southern California desert areas.  It has a very thick trunk.  It resembles the Mexican Fan Palm (Washingtonia robusta), but has larger leaves, a more open crown, a much thicker trunk that seems to shed leaves more quickly and has more cold hardiness.  It will tolerate temperatures into the mid-teens F.  One of the reasons for enthusiasm about this species is its cold hardiness.  In domestic gardens, seeds are often hybridized with robusta.  Seeds from wild locations tend to be pure.  This species is hard to locate.  We occasionally have plants for sale but getting the “real thing” usually requires collection seeds from native habitats and growing them yourself.  Seeds collected in domestic areas are very often a hybrid with W. robusta.  We sometimes have plants available but usually not so.  Shown below are some specimens.  The last photo is interesting.  It has a mature W. robusta to the left and what appears to be filifera to the right.  I cannot guarantee that the plant to the right isn't a hybrid.  In any case, not the more open crown and thicker trunk with the filifera.  As the more common Mexican Fan Palm often suffers from cold damage in marginal areas, many feel eager to try the W. filifera in their area.  Cold hardiness is probably into the mid-teens F.  Obviously, it wants full sun.  Growth rate is a slower than the robusta, but still fairly fast growing.   

In the photos below I'm first showing a row of pictures of Washingtonia robusta followed by Washingtonia filifera.  The sixth photos below is by Gary Monroe at the Anza Borrego Park in California.  The eighth photo below is (to my eye) a W. robusta on the left and W. filifera on right.  The main point to remember is the trunk size.  W. robusta has a thinner, often leaning trunk at maturity compared to the W. filifera which are thicker and rarely lean.  The last picture shows what appears to me to be a W. robusta on the left and filifera (or filifera hybrid) on the right.


Washingtonia robusta
Washingtonia robusta
Washingtonia robusta
Washingtonia robusta - not mature
Washingtonia robusta
Washingtonia robusta - old trees, some leaning
Washingtonia filifera
Washingtonia filifera
Washingtonia filifera
Washingtonia filifera, old domestic plant
Washintonia filifera by Gary Monroe Anza Borrego Park, CA
Wild stand of W. filifera by Gary Monroe
Washingtonia filifera
Washingtonia filifera
. Washingtonia filifera
Washingtonia filifera
Washingtonia - perhaps robusta to left and filifera to right
Possible W. robusta on left and W. filifera right

ZAMIA VAZQUEZII
AKA ZAMIA FISCHERI 

 

VERY CUTE UNDERSTORY DWARF & FILTERED LIGHT CYCAD

This petite cycad seldom gets very tall and is native to Mexico.  It has a small caudex, often subterranean,  typically holds five to eight leaves, has serrated leaf margins and an overall height usually under three feet.  It is rare to see an old plant with a cuadex more than twelve inches long.  This species is an ideal choice for a small, filtered light area in the garden.  Along the coast they can tolerate full sun.  And, surprisingly, they make a wonderful house plant.  They, like all cycads, like good draining soil.  I've found that, on a cold winter, leaves may brown and the plant becomes deciduous.  But, the following season, a new crop of leaves appear.  They also make a very nice potted cycad.  This species will sucker, so small colonies can develop in the garden.  Shown here is a female plant in a citrus pot.  Note the cone in the third picture.  The fifth picture is a very old specimen in a pot.  I'm showing an old picture (last photo) to show that you can get a full throw of leaves, even in a pot.  We have a great supply of these for sale and can ship them anywhere within the U.S.  I'd estimate cold tolerance to be in the mid-twenties F.  Regarding light expsure, put it in filtered light (especiall far inland) or along the coast in a little morning or late day sun.


Zamia vazquezii Zamia vazquezii Zamia vazquezii
Zamia fischeri Zamia fischeri Zamia fischeri
Zamia vazquezii Zamia vazquezii Zamia vazquezii

   

CHAMAEDOREA HOOPERIANA
BAMBOO PALM THAT IS TALL AND FULL



STRONG & LARGE  15 GALLON PLANTS - OVER 20 YEARS OLD
ALMOST SOLD OUT OF THESE INSTANT LANDSCAPE PALMS
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.  Some are almost 15 feet tall with multiple canes.  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 15 GALLON $595
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE SIZES $485

BTW, these are not easy to find on the market.  I'm showing you a large and old 15g plant at the nursery. 

READ MORE ABOUT THE BAMBOO PALMS

Chamaedorea hooperiana 15g Chamaedorea hooperiana 15g Chamaedorea hooperiana 15g
Chamaedorea hooperiana 15g Chamaedorea hooperiana 15g Chamaedorea hooperiana 15g
Chamaedorea hooperiana fruit Chamaedorea hooperiana Chamaedorea hooperiana

 

RHOPALOSTYLIS HYBRID
SAPIDA X BAUERI


SHOWING HYBRID VIGOR - SHOULD BE A WINNER!
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 15 GALLON SIZE

For those of you with growing experience, you understand that palms, even monoecious palms, can hybridize.   We got in some plants and were told that they were "sapida".  But, looking at them you'll know they are not pure sapidaSeeds came off a Rhopalostylis sapida seed bearing tree.  The dark petioles (brown) and downward flexing leaves show that they are a hybrid - baueri blood.   Sorry, but I have no photos of a mature garden tree of this hybrid.  They can take part day sun or filtered light in most areas.  Cold hardiness will be about 20 degrees F.  I have no mature hybrid garden plants to show at this time.  But, below, I'm showing the two parents I think that made this hybrid.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 15g $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15 GALLON $225



Rhopoalostylis sapida x baueri, 15g Rhopoalostylis sapida x baueri, 15g Rhopoalostylis sapida x baueri, 15g
Rhopoalostylis sapida x baueri, 15g Rhopoalostylis sapida x baueri, 15g  
Rhopalostylis sapida
Rhopalostylis sapida
Rhopalostylis baueri
Rhopalostylis baueri
 

 

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.   This size is shown in the first six photos below.  The 7th photo is as 25 gallon size which we also have.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $225

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

 

JUBAEA X BUTIA HYBRID
VERY COLD HARY HYBRID PALM THAT LOVES SUN AND HEAT


LIMITED SUPPLY OF LARGE 15 GALLON AVAILABLE
TEN DAY PECIAL LARGE 15 GALLON PLANTS

We are pleased to post that we have just acquired some huge 15 gallon size of this sought after hybrid.  This is a cold hardy hybrid that thrives in sun and heat.  Cold tolerance is well into the teens F.  See chart below for description.  On the garden 7th and 8th photos below, my thanks to TS at RPS and unknown contributor on Palm talk for their photos.  Incidentally, these can be shipped but it'd be expensive.  Also, supply is very limited.  If we run out, for a short while, I can possibly get more.  Also, 15 gallon is the only size available at this time.


Locality:

Hybrid

Cold Hardiness: 

Probably 16 - 18 F.

Trunk type:

Fat trunk with retained leaf bases.  Not as fat as Jubaea, but much fatter than a Butia.

Leaf type:

  Pinnate with silver/green color,  leaves tend to curve down a
bit.

Suckering/Solitary:

Solitary.

Maintenance:

Easy.

Speed of growth:

Slow to moderate.

Height:

Uncertain- probably 30+ feet.

Soil requirements:

Average.

Sun Requirements:

Full.

General Description:

This is a thick trunked palm that look just like one would expect from this hybrid.

Other Notes:

Gives on a faster growing Jubaea-looking palm that can be of size without waiting decades.  The Butia blood should give it good cold hardiness.



REGULAR PRICE THESE HUGE 15 GALLON HYBRIDS $450
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS 15GALLON SIZE $365



Jubaea x Butia 15g Jubaea x Butia 15g Jubaea x Butia 15g
Jubaea x Butia 15g Jubaea x Butia 15g Jubaea x Butia 15g
Jubaea x Butia TS RPS Jubaea x Butia unknown author palmtalk Jubaea x Butia Balboa Park

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 $115

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

 

COPERNICIA PRUNIFERA
THE CARNAUBA WAX PALM

 

WATER CONSERVING - LOVES HEAT AND SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 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 $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE ON 5 GALLON $115

Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera
Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera
Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera Copernicia prunifera

 

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 $85


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

 

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 tall.  Two things are quite noteworthy:  First, the undersides of the leaves are a silver-white.  A picture below of sale size shows this quite well.  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.  You have to have an overhead crown of leaves to really see the silver color.

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

Remember to mention this Special for your discount when you purchase.
  The plants on sale are shown in the first six photos.  I'm also showing a 15g size and a specimen c/o TS at RPS.


Cryosophila stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha
Cryosophila stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha Cryosophila stauracantha
CRYOSOPHILA STAURACANTHA CRYOSOPHILA STAURACANTHA CRYOSOPHILA STAURACANTHA by TS RPS

 

PTYCHOSPERMA ELEGANS
THE SOLITAIRE PALM - NATIVE TO AUSTRALIA



ELEGANT SINGLE TRUNK SPECIES

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

This single trunk palm species is native to the Northern Territory and Queensland in Australia.  It has a rather thin trunk that typically is six to eight inches thick.  Leaves are about six feet long.  The crown shaft is silver green in color and the leaves are green.  Mature height is about 25 feet on average.  It tolerates temperatures into the 20's F.  I've been growing one in my garden for about 40 years.  It's still gorgeous.  Some plant them as small colonies, two or three together.  We're putting our one gallon size on special.  It's been a while since we've offered this species or size, but only a few available.  We may also have a similar Ptychosperma species if these run out.  

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE $65

Remember to mention this Special.  These can be mail ordered


Ptychosperma elegans 1g Ptychosperma elegans 1g Ptychosperma elegans 1g
Ptychosperma elegans 1g Ptychosperma elegans 1g Ptychosperma elegans 1g
Ptychosperma elegans Ptychosperma elegans Ptychosperma elegans

 

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


TEN DAY SPECIAL VERY LARGE BAND SIZED PLANTS

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 four years to produce the band sized seedlings you see here.  Yes, from seed, Coccothrinax are very slow growing.  We do have other sizes for sale and multiple other species of this genus.  In the ground this genus are much faster.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $70
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $60

Remember:  Mention this Special when you purchase to get this discount.  These plants would be easy to ship. 


Coccothrinax barbadensis band Coccothrinax barbadensis band Coccothrinax barbadensis band
Coccothrinax barbadensis band Coccothrinax barbadensis band Coccothrinax barbadensis band
Coccothrinax barbadensis  Coccothrinax barbadensis  Coccothrinax barbadensis

 

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 $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $50

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

 

ENCEPHALARTOS FRIDERICI-GUILIELMI
VERY RARE SOUTH AFRICAN BLUE CYCAD


COLD HARDY - SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZE MATURE
END OF SUMMER SALE PRICE THIS ACTUAL CYCAD

This species is endemic to the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa.  These regions are arid and subject to semi-regular fires (evidenced by the scorched and blackened trunks).  Plants grow in sunny locations.  This species is small to medium sized.  Leaves are approximately one meter long.  Stems are stout and can get up to a height of  four meters over a few centuries.  E. friderici-guilielmi is primarily a solitary stemmed plant but can make some basal suckers.  This is a beautiful, fine leafed and blue cycad.  They are moderate growers and are an easy size to manage in the garden.  The leaves are unarmed, and are not pokey.  This species tends to be very cold hardy as well tolerant of heat.  Cold tolerance is down to about 20 degrees F.  This cycad also needs a soil that drains well.  They can get into rot problems if the soil stays too moist.  As this is not a large cycad, I would place it in the foreground of a planting.  We’re putting on Sale a 15 gallon plant that is about twelve years old and has a caudex of 4 inches.  This plant can be mail ordered in a big box.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD $740
TEN DAY SPECIAL SALE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD $650

Encephalartos friderici-guilielmi 7 g caudex 4 inches Encephalartos friderici-guilielmi 7 g caudex 4 inches Encephalartos friderici-guilielmi 7 g caudex 4 inches
Encephalartos friderici-guilielmi 7 g caudex 4 inches Encephalartos friderici-guilielmi 7 g caudex 4 inches Encephalartos friderici-guilielmi 7 g caudex 4 inches
Encephalartos friderici-guilielmi garden Encephalartos friderici-guilielmi garden Encephalartos friderici-guilielmi

 

ENCEPHALARTOS NATALENSIS
MEDIUM SIZED GREEN CYCAD 


NATIVE TO SOUTH AFRICA

TEN DAY SPECIAL GREAT LANDSCAP READY 15 GALLON

This is a South African cycad species that has green leaves and makes a medium sized
adult plant.  By this I mean you, over several decades, will get a plant with perhaps 4 feet of
trunk.  It's crown width is about 8 feet.  It likes full sun and heat unless you are in a desert
locality.  It is a quick grower and has cold tolerance to the low 20's F.  It can go even to lower temperatures if you give it some cold protection.  It is also known to be a reliable and relatively fast growing cycad.  This is a mainstay species for any cycad garden.   We’re offering a 15 gallon with a caudex of 6 inches on sale with our End of The Summer Sale.  This plant can be mail ordered.  If this plant sells, we have others of similar size available as well as smaller and larger sizes.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD $720
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ATUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD $650

Encephalartos natalensis 15g 6 in Encephalartos natalensis 15g caudex 6 inches Encephalartos natalensis 15g caudex 6 inches
Encephalartos natalensis 15g caudex 6 inches Encephalartos natalensis 15g caudex 6 inches Encephalartos natalensis 15g caudex 6 inches
Encephalartos natalensis Encephalartos natalensis Encephalartos natalensis

 

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 $2500 EACH

The last garden photo is c/o TS at RPS.

 
Macrozamia moorei   Macrozamia moorei   Macrozamia moorei  
MACROZAMIA MOOREI garden MACROZAMIA MOOREI MACROZAMIA MOOREI ts rps

 

BLECHNUM GIBBUM FERN
"MINIATURE TREE FERN"

 

NICE 5G PLANTS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G PLANTS

This species never makes a large plant.  But, it does resemble the classic "Tree Fern".  It has a short, small trunk 3 to 4 inches in diameter, an overall height typically of under six feet and crown width of four feet.  It prefers filtered light and will tolerate temperatures into the 20's F.  People in the San Francisco area are growing this species.  Be aware that this species, like all ferns, needs water.

Note that there are other types of "Blechnum Ferns".  But, the variety shown is one of my favorites and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it in your garden.

REGULAR PRICE 5G THIS SPECIES $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $75


Just mention this blog only special when purchasing to get this price.  Note that the last photo is a 15 gallon plant from the nursery.  Note that we also have 15 gallon plants available as well. 


Blechnum Gibbum miniature tree fern Blechnum Gibbum miniature tree fern Blechnum Gibbum miniature tree fern
Blechnum Gibbum miniature tree fern Blechnum Gibbum miniature tree fern Blechnum Gibbum miniature tree fern
Blechnum gibbum Blechnum fern growinonthehedge website Blechnum Gibbum miniature tree fern

 

ALOCASIA DARK STAR
SMALLER HYBRID VARIETY WITH DARK STEMS



VERY ATTRACTIVE ELEPHANT EAR TYPE OF TROPICAL PLANT
FAIRLY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE 1 GALLON PLANTS

This hybrid variety is known for its near black stems and dark veins on the leaves.  Leaf color is green, both sides.  Overall mature height is about three feet.  This plant will sucker and has been said to grow in Zone 9.  There are reports of it taking down to the upper teens F.  It is a hybrid of multiple other varieties.  It is said to tolerates full sun, but I'd probably recommend part day sun or less, especially if you are far inland.  Note how the leaves are slightly ruffled with irregular edges on the larger nursery specimen.  We're putting young one gallons on sale - shown in first 6 photos.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $45
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $37.50

Easy to mail order. 

Alocasia dark star Alocasia star Alocasia dark star
Alocasia dark star Alocasia dark star Alocasia dark star
Alocasia dark star Alocasia dark star  

 

CALOCASIA GIGANTEA THAILAND GIANT
HUGE ELEPHANT EAR TYPE PLANT



LARGE GREEN LEAVES, SUCKERING
TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE ONE GALLON SIZE

Calocasia are types of Elephant Ear plants that are native to areas from India through Asia.  The species on special today is known for it's huge leaves which can be six feet long and four feet wide. This variety is known to have the largest leaves of this species.  Leaves are green and heart shaped.  Mature height can be ten feet.  They tolerate sun or part sun.  Plants are known to be grown in zone 7b and can take a freeze if the soil doesn't freeze.  In freezing areas new leaves will re-emerge in the spring.  In frost free areas it is a perennial plant. The last photo c/o the Missouri Botanical Garden shows a larger plant.  The plants on special shown below are in one gallon pots.  These photos were taken last month.  Plants are presently larger than shown here.  They are fairly quick growing.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $35

Calocasia gigantea thailand giant Calocasia gigantea thailand giant Calocasia gigantea thailand giant
Calocasia gigantea thailand giant Calocasia gigantea thailand giant Calocasia gigantea thailand giant Missouri Botanical Garden Website

 

HEDYCHIUM GREENEII
LUSH TROPICAL LANDSCAPE PLANT WITH RED FLOWERS


TOLERATES COASTAL SUN, RED BACK SIDES TO LEAFLETS
SUCKERS & SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED CLUMP
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS

This lush, suckering green tropical plant is another blossoming plant with attractive foliage with red backs to the leaves.  Leaflets asre green on the dorsal side and red beneath.  When .6looking at the plant from the side, these red leaflets definitely give the plant a red appearance.  Blossoms are upright and also brilliantly red.  Mature height is five to six feet.  It toleates sun and is cold hardy to below a freeze.  The 15g on Special are shown below.  Garden & blossom photos re by Wikispecies and Garden.org websites.

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

Hedychium greeneii 15g Hedychium greeneii 15g Hedychium greeneii 15g
Hedychium greeneii 15g Hedychium greeneii 15g Hedychium greeneii 15g
Hedychium greeneii Wikispecies website RED BUTTERFLY GINGER HEDYCHIUM GREENII BY GARDEN.ORG WEBSITE  

 

BILBERGIA CLUSTERS WITH CASCADING PINK BLOSSOMS
IN BLOSSOM IN THE SUMMER



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 their 8 inch pots.  They usually blossom in summer and the blossoms are fairly long lasting.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 8 INCH CLUSTER PLANTS $100
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE LARGE CLUSTERS IN 8 INCH POTS $80


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  

 

 

                              MONDAY, 2 SEPTEMBER, 2024 

PHOENIX RECLINATA
CANARY ISLANDS ARE THE BIG ONES, RIGHT?


THINK AGAIN AND BE CAUTIOUS - P. RECLINATA TAKE UP ROOM
LET'S DEFINE "BIG"


When one considers "big" palm trees, one usually thinks about trunk diameter, overall height and the size of the crown.  So, when you think of "a big Date Palm", most would discuss Phoenix canariensis or  P. sylvestris. Yes, they are large.  But, consider another viewpoint, the air space they occupy.  Or, put another way, the total of space it takes for all the crowns if it is suckering.

I bring this up because most people don't really think about how big a Phoenix reclinata can become.  Each individual crown can be ten feet across.  And, when you have twenty crowns of leaves, they really take up room and occupy, all by themselves, a lot of garden space.  The pictures here show this.  So, realize that, over time, planting one takes up a lot of "air space" in the garden.

Remember the derivation of the word "reclinata".  It comes from the word "recline".  Trunks on this species have to recline (move out of the way) or the crown just doesn't have enough space.  So, up in the air, this is by far the biggest of the date palms and must be given a lot of room.  If you put it in the corner of a patio or in a courtyard, you'll be spending a lot of time pruning it back.  Review the photos below to understand this.  And, remember this when you select species and plant out your garden.  There are different types of "Big" Palms!


Phoenix reclinata Phoenix reclinata Phoenix reclinata
Phoenix reclinata
Phoenix reclinata PACSOA
photo from PACSOA website
Phoenix reclinata
Phoenix reclinata Phoenix reclinata Phoenix reclinata

 

BROMELIADS: TILLANDSIA CLUSTERS
MOUNTED ON WOOD OR FREE HANGING


ABOUT FIVE DIFFERENT SPECIES OFFERED
AND, CHECK OUT THE BLOSSOMS


Tillandsia are a type of epiphytic Bromeliad that live in trees in habitat, either on trunks or branches.  Or, they could live on the side of a rock, on a telephone wire, on a fence post or almost anywhere else that seeds might land.  They are called "epiphytic" because they use the host structure only for support.  They do not take nutrition from the host.  Such a plant would then be called "parasitic".  They live off natural rainwater and nutrition in the air.  This could be in the form of dust or debris, etc. that lands on the plants.

Tillandsias in domestic culture can be mounted on tree limbs, put on pieces of wood or even just put in a glass bowl.  They are quite durable.  The plants shown here are clusters of about four to five plants or more.  They were put on boards that are one inch thick.  We mount with sphagnum moss and fishing line.  Sometimes we just hang them from a sturdy wire.  Some growers mount them directly on the trunks of palm trees or other trees.  And, as seen in the photos, they typically blossom once a year – usually spring or summer.  Over time, small clumps become large clumps – so you can divide them up later.  

In terms of care, we'd reocmmending you spray them with water every week and once in a while spray them with a mild liquid fertilizer.  They are easy to grow and do like some sun.  We have five different varieties or species available. The photos below give examples of plants at the nursery and I'm showing some blossoms as well.  These can be easily mail ordered via UPS.


Tillandsia clusters Tillandsia clusters Tillandsia clusters
Tillandsia clusters Tillandsia clusters Tillandsia clusters
Tillandsia clusters Tillandsia cluster Tillandsia clusters
Tillandsia cluster in blossoml Tillandsia cluster in blossoml Tillandsia cluster in blossoml

 

BRAHEA CLARA
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM SONORA, MEXICO



LOVES SUN AND HEAT - SUPER COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 20 OR 25 GALLON SIZE

This palm is quite similar to the more common Brahea armata.  ItIt is felt by some to be a natural hybrid between Brahea armata and Brahea brandegeei.  It’s considered a “costo-palmate” palm.  It loves sun, takes cold to 15 degrees and is blue in color.  It gets to a height of no more than 20 feet.  Compared to the common Mexican Blue Fan Palm (Brahea armata), it has longer petioles and is faster growing.  Another curious difference we've discovered is the stem armor.  Rather than simple, uniform curved spines, the armor is more like a bad set of shark's teeth.  The plants on special are in limited numbers and quite large for their container with heights of 8 to 10 feet in their pots.  They are way to big for standard mail order.

REGULAR PRICE 20 / 25 GALLON $595
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $495


brahea clara 20 gallon Brahea clara 25g leaf brahea clara 20 gallon
brahea clara 20 gallon brahea clara 20 gallon brahea clara 20 gallon
brahea clara TS RPS brahea clara unknown author FLIKR brahea clara

 

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  

 

VARIEGATED RHAPIS EXCELSA
EXOTIC - TEND TO BE SMALL, MINIATURE PALMS

 

DON'T LIKE TOO MUCH NITROGEN
LIMITED SUPPLIES AVAILABLE - 5 & 15 GALLON
TEN DAY SPECIAL ANY VARIEGATED RHAPIS WE HAVE

This is another post to remind readers that we still offer a good supply of the highly coveted variegated Rhapis excelsa.  Known as the "Gems of the Orient", these striking plants typically have yellow or white variegation on green leaves.  Most plants at mature size are three to six feet.  There are many exotic varieties - most popular in Japan where affluent collectors compete to obtain the most striking plants.  Propagation is by divisions only.  So, one must mother plants for divisions so you'd have a plant to sell. 

The plant leaflet photos below are an assortment of our Nursery plants.  The variegation consists of very narrow bands of yellow on green.  They are sort of hard to see here.  On any given leaflets there are lots of these narrow, subtle stripes.

Contact us if you are interested in getting one.  BTW, these are never inexpensive plants.  And, they are all different.  The variegation seems to be different from leaf to leaf on all varieties.

TEN DAY SPECIAL:  15% OFF ANY VARIEGATED RHAPIS IN STOCK

variegated Rhapis variegated Rhapis variegated Rhapis
variegated Rhapis variegated Rhapis variegated Rhapis
variegated Rhapis variegated Rhapis variegated Rhapis

 

CHAMAEDOREA TRUNKING RADICALIS
MEDIUM HEIGHT MATURE - THIN TRUNKS



SUPER COLD HARDY AND TOLERATES COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE MULTIPLES

Speaking of cold hardy, filtered light palms, let me mention Chamaedorea radicalis.  Today I’m talking about the tunking form of this species.  Decades ago we didn't even know this species existed.  All Chamaedorea radicalis were dwarfs - rarely over five feet tall.  The trunking form rapidly puts on trunk.  Mature, plants can get up to fifteen feet tall. Leaflets are wider than the dwarf form and there's a bit of silver color to the stems and trunk.  Trunks mature are narrow, under an inch thick.  They can bend slightly as they get height.  See photos below of a mature specimen at the nursery.  It is also very quick growing.  These 15g on Special should have a ten foot height in under five years.  Both forms tolerate full sun along the coast but can also be grown in strong filtered light.  Cold hardiness of 18 degrees F.  Some in the SF Bay Area are successfully growing this species.  Also, enthusiasts in Houston, TX have as well.  We have a limited number of 15g plants on special.  This larger 15g size can be mail ordered but do consider smaller sizes to save money if you are out of our area.  Note that I have put six photos below of our fruiting triiple trunking radicalis.  It's about ten years old in a 25g pot.

REGULAR PRICE 15G MULTIPLES $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G MULTIPLES $225

You get this discount when you mention our Blog Only Special.  BTW, that huge 25 gallon plant, the mature one with seeds, is also for sale.

CHAMAEDOREA TRUNKING RADICALIS CHAMAEDOREA TRUNKING RADICALIS CHAMAEDOREA TRUNKING RADICALIS
CHAMAEDOREA TRUNKING RADICALIS CHAMAEDOREA TRUNKING RADICALIS CHAMAEDOREA TRUNKING RADICALIS
Chamaedorea radicalis trunking 25g tall and in fruit Chamaedorea radicalis trunking 25g tall and in fruit Chamaedorea radicalis trunking 25g tall and in fruit
Chamaedorea radicalis trunking 25g tall and in fruit Chamaedorea radicalis trunking 25g tall and in fruit Chamaedorea radicalis trunking 25g tall and in fruit

 

RHOPALOSTYLIS BAUERI
NORFOLK ISLAND PALM

 
SINGLE TRUNK - CROWN SHAFTED
TEN DAY 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 $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $225


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

CHAMAEDOREA TEPEJILOTE
SINGLE TRUNK, TALL 
SHADE-LOVING PINNATE PALM


DARK GREEN RINGED TRUNK
OFTEN GROWN AS A "MULTIPLE" AS SHOWN HERE
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 5 GALLON 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.  The last 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 is into the mid-twenties F.  It needs filtered light, even when tall.  We have singles and some multiples of our 5g that are on sale.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $165
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $135

The last photo below is c/o TS at RPS.


Chamaedorea tepejilote multi 5g  Chamaedorea tepejilote multi 5g  Chamaedorea tepejilote multi 5g 
Chamaedorea tepejilote multi 5g  Chamaedorea tepejilote multi 5g  Chamaedorea tepejilote multi 5g 
Chamaedorea tepejilote  Chamaedorea tepejilote   

 

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR



A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM
THIS SPECIES WANTS SUN AND HEAT!

TEN DAY SPECIAL VERY NICE 5G 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 are our 5 gallon sized plants that we’re putting on special.  They are a good size to plant.  This size can be mail ordered.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $
135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100

Remember:  Mention this Special for this price.  Of note we also carry the "Green Bismarckia" but the one on sale today is the prominent blue variety.

Bismarckia nobilis 5g Bismarckia nobilis 5g Bismarckia nobilis 5g
Bismarckia nobilis 5g Bismarckia nobilis 5g Bismarckia nobilis 5g
Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis Bismarckia nobilis

   

ARCHONTOPHOENIX TUCKERI
RARE AUSTRALIAN TYPE OF KING PALM


PURE GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 5 GALLON SIZE

Common Name(s):  Archontophoenix Peach River (Creek)
Native Locality:  Cape York Peninsula, Queensland, Australia
Overall Height:  Maximum sixty to seventy feet
Trunk Diameter:  Ten inches
Leaf Length:  Nine to ten feet, moderately twisted
Leaflets:  Silver underneath, somewhat pendulous or drooping.
Crown Shaft Color:   Green 
Presence of Ramenta:  Absent
Flower Color:  White or cream colored

This is a fairly rare and seldom available species of King Palm from Australia.  It is a good growing species that gets tall with a thin trunk.  We’re putting large 5 gallon plants on Special.  These can be mail ordered but would take a large box.  The great 7th photo is c/o Luke Nancarrow, AU

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

Archonophoenix tuckeri 5g Archonophoenix tuckeri 5g Archonophoenix tuckeri 5g
Archonophoenix tuckeri 5g Archonophoenix tuckeri 5g Archonophoenix tuckeri 5g
Archontophoenix tuckeri garden Archontophoenix tuckeri Archontophoenix tuckeri by Luke Nancarrow, PACSOA

  

PRITCHARDIA HILLEBRANDII
A HAWAIIAN LOULU FAN PALM

MEDIUM SIZED MATURE - NICE SEMI-FLAT GREEN LEAVES
WHITE TOMENTUM ON LEAF STEMS AND INNER CROWN
TEN DAY SPECIAL THREE OR FIVE GALLON SIZE

If you like fan palms, then you have to try some Pritchardia palms.  There are about 25 species of Pritchardia.  All the best ones come from the Hawaiian Islands.  The species from the South Pacific are to be avoided as they don't do well here.  This species is from Hawaii and reaches a medium height of 25 feet.  Leaves are green.  They have white tomentum (hairs) on the leaf stem and trunk.  I’d estimate the trunk diameter at about eight inches by my experience.  It becomes clean as old leaf bases fall off.  Growth rate is medium.  This is a very attractive palm.  I have one in my garden that gets partial sun and is at least 20 feet tall.  Cold tolerance is into the mid-twenties F.  Mail order easy.

REGULAR PRICE GOOD SIZE THREE OR FIVE GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THREE GALLON $115


Pritchardia hillebrandii 3g Pritchardia hillebrandii 3g Pritchardia hillebrandii 3g
Pritchardia hillebrandii 3g Pritchardia hillebrandii 3g Pritchardia hillebrandii 3g
Pritchardia hillebrandii Pritchardia hillebrandii PalmPedia Pritchardia hillebrandii

 

ALLAGOPTERA ARENARIA
THE SEASHORE OR BEACH PALM
  


FULL SUN, COLD HARDY, DWARF
VERY DIFFICULT TO LOCATE FOR SALE
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON SIZE


The nursery plants shown here are nice one gallon size.  They are about three years old.  This species is native to Brazil and lives near the ocean, often on sandy dunes near beaches.  In general, it is very slow growing.  Mature height height is about six feet.  The leaves are plumose and fluffy.  It is a single trunk species although it has the appearance of being a suckering species.  It loves sun and heat.  If you need a small palm for full sun that you can see over, this is a great species for you.  These 5g are easy to ship in their containers with soil.  This species is very difficult to find for sale nowadays.

REGULAR PRICE FIVE GALLON $145
SALE PRICE THIS SIZE $125

Just mention this Special for your discount when you purchase.


Allagoptera arenaria 5g Allagoptera arenaria 5g Allagoptera arenaria 5g
Allagoptera arenaria 5g Allagoptera arenaria 5g Allagoptera arenaria 5g
Allagoptera arenaria Allagoptera arenaria Allagoptera arenaria

 

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 $145
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $125

Remember:  Mention this Special for this Blog Only discounted price.  


Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana
Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana multiple 5g
Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana Chamaedorea costaricana

 

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 $125

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 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

 

RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII
MORE RARE SPECIES OF THIS GENUS
 



GORGEOUS CROWN SHAFT - VERY ELEGANT MATURE PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE BAND 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 are red colored as shown here.  Cold tolerance is the low 20's F.  It will take coastal sun or consider morning sun or strong filtered light inland.  The band size are four to five years old and absolutey huge for their pots - needing repotting or putting into the garden.

REGULAR PRICE THESE HUGE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL HUGE BAND SIZE $55

Just mention this Blog special for this discount.  These can be mail ordered.   We also have 5g (shown below) and 15g sizes available.  The 8th photo is c/o cloudforest.com website.

RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII band RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII band RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII band
RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII band RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII band RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII band
Rhopalostylis cheesemanii
5g size
Rhopalostylis cheesemanii Cloudforest.com website RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII

 

DYPSIS SPECIES BEF
SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM FROM MADAGASCAR



THIN TRUNK, ARCHING LEAVES, WHITE CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND 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.  The first six photos show the plants on special. 

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $55

This size is easy to ship.  This species will take coastal sun.  Cold tolerance is unknown  although I’d guess it’s in the mid-twenties F. 


Dypsis species bef band  Dypsis species bef band  Dypsis species bef band 
Dypsis species bef band  Dypsis species bef band  Dypsis species bef band 
Dypsis species bef   Dypsis species bef Jeff Ausralia  Dypsis species bef  

 

CARYOTA URENS
THE GIANT MOUNTAIN FISHTAIL

 

FAST GROWING - SUPER TALL
REASONABLY COLD HARDY TALL BIPINNAT PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZED SEEDLINGS

Yes, this species of Fishtail is super fast growing.  And, it's not unusual for one to get above 70 feet tall.  Some people love the grandeur of these palms.  And, for some, they want it "right now".  Well, this is an opportunity to satisfy that need.  Planted out, once established, this is a super fast growing palm.  It would not be unusual to go from a seedling to a height of 30 feet in six or seven years.  This species is native to northern Thailand and surrounding countries.  The trunk is about 16 inches or so thick and light tan in color.  The leaves are compound – bipinnate.  This means the main stem branches off into secondary leaf stems.  Leaflets are jagged at their ends.  Also, this is a monoecious palm that dies about three years after flowering  It wants full coastal sun.  It is taller than Caryota gigas and has shorter leaves and a thinner trunk.  We’re putting young two-leaf seedlings on sale.  Easy to mail order.  BTW, these seedlings have probably thrown another leaf since these photos below were taken. 

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE BAND SEEDLINGS $55

Easy to mail order.  Limited numbers available.


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

 

ENCEPHALARTOS TRANSVENOSUS
LARGE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD SPECIES

GREEN LEAVES - QUICK GROWING
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE


Shown here below is a good sized plant of a green South African cycad that, in the ground, makes a large and magnificent plant.  Encephalartos transvenosus gets enormous with trunks over 20 feet tall.  Leaves are six to eight feet long and leaflets are shiny, dark green with some glaucous faint hairs on the leaflets.  So, it makes a big show.  The plants on special below are 3 to 4 year old band size.  They can be easily shipped within the U.S.  See first four photos.  The fifth photo shows how large they get (background plant).  The last photo is a larger plant at the nursery. This is a full sun species along the coast with a cold tolerance is 22 degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE THIS BAND SIZE $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $60

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


Encephalartos transvenosus Encephalartos transvenosus Encephalartos transvenosus
Encephalartos transvenosus Encephalartos transvenosus by MR Encephalartos transvenosus

 

ENCEPHALARTOS EUGENE-MARAISII
EXTREMELY ATTRACTIVE BLUE TRANSVAAL CYCAD

 

NATIVE TO SOUTH AFRICA – EXTREMELY RARE

TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALL WITH 1.5 INCH CAUDEX 

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 four year old one gallon on sale for ten days. Caudex size is about 1.5 inches.  

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON THIS SIZE $265
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON AS DESCRIBED $200


Encephalartos eugene-maraisii 1g Encephalartos eugene-maraisii 1g Encephalartos eugene-maraisii 1g
Encephalartos eugene-maraisii 1g Encephalartos eugene-maraisii 1g Encephalartos eugene-maraisii 1g

 

ENCEPHALARTOS GIANT CUPIDUS
SUPER BLUE AND UNBELIEABLY RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD


ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND FOR SALE
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT JUVENILE PLANT

This cycad is endemic to the Blyderivierspoort Nature Reserve in South Africa in the Tranvaal area.  It is confined to two populations within this locale.  This species has a range of habitats in which it grows.  It can be found in open grasslands, along the borders of wet forests, in rocky slopes and rocky outcroppings and cliffs.  This species can be found in climates ranging from hot/arid to semi-wet.  Normally, this is a small species.  Leaves of E. cupidus can reach a meter in length, but rarely do.  Stems are small and are partially to completely subterranean.  Ancient plants have less than a meter of trunk.  The “giant” cupidus  is a larger cycad than the regular cupidus.  This species is known for their small populations and rarity.  It is about as rare as it gets.  Leasf color ranges from blue/green to powdery silver leaves.  This is an armed species and is fairly sharp. In terms of culture, in coastal and inland areas this plant wants to be in full sun.  In desert areas, partial sun is adequate.  This species need soil that drains well.  The plant shown is the only one we have.  It’s in a citrus pot and has a caudex of 1.75 inches.  We almost never can offer this very desirable species and presently only have this one plant. 

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CITRUS POT CYCAD $385


Encephalartos giant cupidus cit pot 1.75 in Encephalartos giant cupidus cit pot 1.75 in Encephalartos giant cupidus cit pot 1.75 in
Encephalartos giant cupidus cit pot 1.75 in Encephalartos giant cupidus cit pot 1.75 in
Encephalartos giant cupidus Encephalartos giant cupidus Encephalartos giant cupidus at Nursery

 

ENCEPHALARTOS HORRIDUS
SUPER BLUE SO AFRICAN CYCAD


MOST POPULAR CYCAD - LOVES SUN ALONG THE COAST
TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE 5 GALLON PLANTS

By far, the most popular rare cycad we sell is Encephalartos horridus.  It is native to the Natal district of South Africa.  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.  Surprisingly, this is a hard species to find.  We’re offering 5 gallon plants with caudex size of 1 to 2 inches.  Most have four leaves or more.  All were grown from domestic seeds.  These can be mail ordered. 

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON PLANTS WITH ABOUT FOUR TO FIVE LEAVES $295
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE
5 GALLON AS DESCRIBED ABOVE $250


Encephalartos horridus 5g 1-2 inches, 6 Encephalartos horridus 5g 1-2 inches, 6
Encephalartos horridus 5g 1-2 inches, 6 Encephalartos horridus 5g 1-2 inches, 6 Encephalartos horridus 5g 1-2 inches, 6
Encephalartos horridus Encephalartos horridus

 

ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

 

UPRIGHT GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GALLON JUVENILES WITH 1.5 IN CAUDEX

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.  We’re offer 2 gallon juvenile plants on species.  Their caudexes are about 1.5 inches. 

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON WITH 1.5 INCH CADUEX $155
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON AS DESCRIBED $125

Encephalartos paucidentatus 2g Encephalartos paucidentatus 2g Encephalartos paucidentatus 2g
Encephalartos paucidentatus 2g Encephalartos paucidentatus 2g Encephalartos paucidentatus 2g
Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus Encephalartos paucidentatus

 

ENCEPHALARTOS TRISPINOSUS
BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD


SOUGHT AFTER - SPINY LEAFLETS
LOVES SUN AND PRETTY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE WITH CAUDEX 2-3 INCHES

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 is anticipated that these plants, like their parents, with have prominently prickly and lobed leaflets.  These will want full sun along the coast and are cold hardy to about 22 degrees F.  These 5 gallon plants can be shipped.  Caudex size on these is about 2-3 inches.  After acclimation, one can plant them directly into the ground in spring to summer, or wait another year when they are larger.  This size is easy to mail order.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON WITH ABOUT 2 - 3 INCH CAUDEX $395
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 5G PLANTS WITH 2-3 INCH CAUDEXES $310


Encephalartos trispinosus 5g Encephalartos trispinosus 5g Encephalartos trispinosus 5g
Encephalartos trispinosus 5g Encephalartos trispinosus 5g 2 - 3 inches Encephalartos trispinosus 5g 2 - 3 inches
Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus Encephalartos trispinosus

   

ARAUCARIA HETEROPHYLLA
THE NORFOLK ISLAND PINE OR STAR PINE


LARGE AND TALL STURDY GREEN LEAFED TREE
TOLERATES OUR LOCAL WINTER COLD - WANTS SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE


There are about twenty different species of Araucaria worldwide.  This includes multiple species from New Caledonia.  The Norfolk Island Pine is one of these species.  It is native, of course, to the Norfolk Island.  All Araucaria tend to make good sized trees.  The Norfolk Pine in the wild can get to heights well over one hundred feet with a forty or more foot spread of the crown.  It developes a thick trunk and has prickly green leaflets.  Because of the latter, you cannot walk below it bare footed.  It is a full sun tree in most areas and is only marginally cold hardy - at best into the mid to upper 30's F.  Also, it doesn't like extremely hot weather.  With this said, there are a fair number of mature trees in the coastal San Diego area.  It is difficult to find any Araucaria for sale.  We rarely have them available.

TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE 15 GALLON $185

Araucaria heterophylla  Norfolk pine Araucaria heterophylla  Norfolk pine Araucaria heterophylla  Norfolk pine
Araucaria heterophylla  Norfolk pine Araucaria heterophylla  Norfolk pine Araucaria heterophylla  Norfolk pine
Araucaria heterophylla  Norfolk pine Araucaria heterophylla  Norfolk pine Araucaria heterophylla  Norfolk pine


FICUS UMBELLATA
INTERIOR / EXTERIOR PLANT WITH LARGE ROUND LEAVES


DWARF MATURE SIZE - STRIKING AND UNUSUAL APPEARANCE
NEWLY SPECIES FOR ENTHUSIASTS - BUT DIFFICULT TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE - ONLY A FEW LEFT


Until about 3 months ago, I had never heard of this species.  There's essentially no scientific articles on it on the Internet.  I've read that it is native to South Africa.  It's mentioned as a smaller replacement for the popular Fiddle Leaf Fig.  It differs from the latter in that it's leaves are very soft and pliable.  It is also much smaller tree mature.  The Fiddle Leaf Fig in my yard is over 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide with a thick trunk.  This new species is supposed to be a real dwarf, not getting over 4 to 6 feet tall.   Leaves are a foot wide, prominently veined and round.  Inside, it's said to want very bright light - next to a bright window.  Cold hardiness is unknown.  We'll know more by next spring after we winter them over at our nursery.  I have no data growing it outdoors.  We're offering some nicely sized 15 gallon that are 7 to 8 feet tall in their pots.  I only have a couple.  They are apparently near mature height.  BTW, this is only the second time we've offered this tree for sale.  We know it does well as an interior plant but data on growing outside is limited.  We have only one or two 15g and a few 5g which, obviously, are les expensive.  Grab one as I doubt we'll have them again.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $325

Sorry, but no photos of mature trees are availab
le.


FICUS UMBELLATA 15G JAN FICUS UMBELLATA 15G JAN FICUS UMBELLATA 15G JAN
FICUS UMBELLATA 15G JAN FICUS UMBELLATA 15G JAN FICUS UMBELLATA 15G JAN

 

MUSA MEKONG GIANT
TALLER, EDIBLE & FRUITING BANANA WITH COLD HARDINESS


TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON PLANTS


This fruiting banana is from China and gets quite tall, especially if grown in a tropical environment.  But, in this locality it is typically about 15 feet tall.  It has broad green leaves and a six inch thick stem.  It does sucker forming a clump of plants.  It produces edible yellow fruit.  It also is known to be somewhat cold hardy.  Although it will freeze in weather below 32 degrees, often plants come back when it's warmer.  I've read that folks in zones 6 & 7 are growing this species. This species wants full sun.

REGULAR PRICE ONE GALLON $50
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $40


Musa mekong giant 1g Musa mekong giant 1g Musa mekong giant 1g
Musa mekong giant 1g MUSA MEKONG GIANT AG2 Musa mekong giant 1g

 

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 about 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 to 4 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.  These are fast growing.  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 but only have a handful available in this size – and they’ll sell out quickly.  There are just too many people seeking this interesting plant.  BTW, we aslso have 15 gallon size available.


REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $155
TEN DAY SPECIAL FAIRLY LARGE 5 GALLON $135

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 Ravanala madagascarensis Ravanala madagascarensis

 

LIGULARIA TUSSILANGINEA - AKA FARUGIUM TUSSILANGINEA
LILY-LIKE, FLAT GREEN LEAVES


YELLOW BLOSSOMS IN FALL
TAKES SUN - LIKES WATER
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE FULL FIVE GALLON


This is an interesting plant we propagate ourselves from seeds of existing plants.  They form small clusters of shiny green leaf plants that don't get over 18 inches.  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.  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.  Below you’ll see our 5 gallon size that we’re putting on Special.  These can be mail ordered.

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

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


Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g
Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g
Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g by RT Ligularia Farfugium japonicum 5g Ligularia Farfugium japonicum

 

NEORGELIA MEDUSA
INNER LEAVES PROMINENTLY RED
FILTERED LIGHT SPECIES


TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE, FULL 6 INCH PLANTS


This species is a hybrid that has its origins in Brazil.  It is a low profile cluster Bromeliad with a mature height of about 12 inches.  Inner leaves are pronounced with their red and dark colors with older leaves being purple or green.  Like other Bromeliads, it likes water in its cup.  This is not a full sun plant and can be grown indoors with adequate indirect light. 

REGULAR PRICE 6 INCH $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL PRICE 6 INCH $45

Neorogelia medusa 6 inch Neorogelia medusa 6 inch Neorogelia medusa 6 inch
Neorogelia medusa 6 inch Neorogelia medusa 6 inch Bromeliads in the landscape
Bromeliads in the landscape Bromeliads in the landscape Bromeliads in the landscape



END OF OLDER POSTS FOR SEPTEMBER, 2024

 

                    
END OF OLDER POSTS FULL VERSION FOR SEPTEMBER, 2024
BUT THERE'S EVEN EARLIER POSTS FROM AUGUST, 2024 - CLICK BELOW


TO SEE EARLIER POSTS FROM AUGUST, CLICK HERE
TO SEE EARLIER POST FROM JULY, 2024, 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 Howea forsteriana 2g
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 Archontophoenix purpurea 5g
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 Macrozamia moorei blue 7g
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 Roystonea regia 15g
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

Encephalartos 36 inch box
Cycad in 36 inch box

 

BLOG ARCHIVES:

see previous months of "Full Version" New Plant Arrivals see list immediately be

TO RETURN TO TOP OF CURRENT POSTS (PRESENT TIME, CLICK HERE

 TO RETURN TO OUR HOME PAGE, CLICK HERE

ARCHIVED MONTHS OF JUNGLE MUSIC'S BLOG

TO READ EARLIER MONTHLY FULL POSTS FROM PREVIOUS MONTHS,

CLICK ON MONTHLY LIST BELOW

 

ANNOUNCEMENT:

FOR ABOUT TWENTY YEARS WE'VE MAINTAINED ALL PAST NEW PLANT ARRIVAL BLOG POSTS.  BUT, DUE TO MEGABYTE LOAD OF THIS WEBSITE (PUSHING TOWARD HALF A MILLION PHOTOS), WE HAD TO ELIMATE VERY OLD BLOG PAGES FROM 2000 THROUGH 2021.  THESE DELETIONS WILL LESSEN THE NUMBER OF PHOTOS ARCHIVED AT THIS SITE AND REDUCE STORAGE DEMANDS.  HOPEFULLY IT WILL REDUCE DOWNLOAD TIMES IN GENERAL.  ON CLICKING THE DATE LINKS BELOW (ON SOME PAGES) YOU MAY SEE A FEW MISSING PHOTOS IN VERY OLD BLOG POSTS.   

 

 

 

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.  SEE POLICIES (LINK BELOW). 
•  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 FOR A LIMITED AMOUNT OF TIME (SEE POLICIES) 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 OR PLANT PURCHSES  

•  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, USUALLY AT THE END OF NURSERY HOURS
 PLANT PRICES CAN CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE AND MAY NOT YET BE RECORDED ON OUR PRICE DATABASES 

•  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 OWN 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 AND WE CANNOT GUARANTEE YOUR SUCCESS WITH ANY GIVEN SPECIES OR PLANT(S)
•  MAIL ORDER ITEMS SENT VIA FEDERAL EXPRESS PRESENTLY UNLESS OTHERWISE ARRANGED
• AVAILABILITY VARIES.  ITEMS ON SALE MAY SELL OUT WITHOUT NOTICE AND NO LONGER BE AVAILABLE.
•  All SALES ARE FINAL WITH NO REFUNDS.  PLEASE SEE OUR COMPANY PURCHASE, GUARANTEE & WARRANTY POLICIES, OUR REFUND AND SHIPPING POLICIES, AND OTHER POLICIES AS DESCRIBED IN OUR PUBLISHED  
JUNGLE MUSIC POLICIES
ANY CANCELLED BUT NOT YET SHIPPED ORDERS MAY BE SUBJECT TO A CANCELLATION FEE OF 20% OF THE PLANT PRICE(S) - SEE OUR POLICIES.



 

THIS IS A HUGE WEBSITE WITH MANY THOUSANDS OF PAGES AND PICTURES.
TAKE YOUR TIME WITH IT.

 

SEE MORE ARTICLES ON PALM TREES

Thank you for reading our Blog

Phil Bergman
Owner & Website Author
Jungle Music Palms, Cycads & Tropical Plants
Phone - for orders or availability:  619 291 4605
Email:  phil@junglemusic.net or TO EMAIL PHIL OR STAFF, CLICK HERE

 

 
 
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.