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Phone: (619) 291-4605

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TROPICAL PLANTS

DESCRIPTION , PHOTOS, AVAILABILITY & PRICES

by Phil & Jesse Bergman

NOTE: NEW NURSERY LOCATION SHOWN BELOW

ALSO NOTE - PRICES SHOWN BELOW HAVE PROBABLY CHANGED OVER TIME

Description of Article

This article serves several purposes for the plant enthusiast and gardener. First, it introduces scores of interesting and unusual tropical plants. Secondly, it gives photographs of plants we carry at Jungle Music along with cultural information, recent availability and prices.

Introduction

Many types of tropical and other plants are introduced below. I've included ample plant photographs with cultural highlights and pictures of nursery plants available with prices. For forty years we've primarily been growing palms and cycads. But, over the last few decades, we're becoming a premiere source for tropical plants as well. Below you'll see our tropical plants with some some other interesting items. Included are:

Tropical Trees, Some Species

Tropical Smaller "Companion Plants"

Epiphytic Plants of Interest

Colorful Plants

Succulents, Some Species that Mix Well in a Tropical Garden

Plant Species that We Feel Merit Mentioning Here

There are many tropical plants that we're growing but that are not included here. This is not an all inclusive presentation. Over time we'll try to update this page with new items as they come in. But, this presentation will give you a feel for the types of plants we offer. And, it helps guide you to having a beautiful garden, whether commercial, private or a botanical garden. Let us know if you seek something not shown here. To see recent arrivals we'd recommend visiting our Blog.
Of note, species are presented alphabetically by common names (if well known) and followed by scientific botanical names. There are a lot of photos below so be patient with the download of about 1000 pictures. Availability of each varies over time and some might require special order.

FOR CELL PHONES, QUICKER DOWNLOAD, MINIMAL PICTURES: CLICK HERE

COMMON PLANT NAME
SPECIES NAME
PLANT DESCRIPTION
AVAILABILITY & PRICE

PHOTOGRAPHS OF INDIVIDUAL
PLANT SPECIES AT OUR NURSERY OR IN GARDENS

AFRICAN TULIP TREE
SPATHODEA CAMPANULATA
MEDIUM TO LARGE FLOWERING TREE
ORANGE OR RARE YELLOW BLOSSOMS

Country or area of origin: Arid areas of Africa
Mature height: 20-75 feet, full canopy
Sun Requirements: Full sun most areas
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Medium to fast
Sizes Available: Usually 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: (orange) 5g $95, 15g $195+ - (yellow cost more - limited)
Size shown: 15g
Comments: Florid color, long lasting blossoms. Also have rare yellow blossoming form on occasion.

Our 5g yellow form plants
15g size

from Maui Plant Chronicles Website
Rare yellow blossoming form

AGAVE
OCTOPUS AGAVE
AGAVE VILMORINIANA

Country or area of origin: Northern Mexico
Mature height: 4 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun most areas
Cold Tolerance: To about 20 degrees F.
Water Requirements: Light
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Usually 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $195
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments: Shorter, xerophytic type plant that tolerates hot sun. Leaves curved and shaped like Octopus. Leaves thick and fleshy.

5 gallon size

larger 15g size
photo c/o website Univ. of Arizona, Pima County

AGAVE
AGAVE ATTENUATA
DR. SUESS PLANT OR WHAT?
NEVER OVER 6 TO 7 FEET TALL
BLUE LEAVES, THIN TRUNK
ASSORTMENT OF SIZES

Country or area of origin: Mexico
Mature height: 6 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun most areas
Cold Tolerance: To about 25 degrees F.
Water Requirements: Light
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Usually 5g, 15g sometimes old specimens as shown
Regular Prices: 5g $85, 15g $225, 15g & 20 & 25g (large trunks)$350
Size shown: 5g, old and tall 15g and 20g
Comments: Shorter, xerophytic type plant that tolerates hot sun. Leaves are thick and fleshy and take on a blue color, even in part sun. Over many years slowly form trunks as shown here. Almost a "cartoon -like, Dr. Seuss" plant. Old trunk specimens are occasionally available.

20g size

5 gallon plant same species

Very old 15g size - Usually much shorter

AIR PLANTS
TILLANDSIA SPECIES
MOUNT ON TREE TRUNKS, POLES OR ALMOST ANYTHING!
OLD CLUSTERS OF PLANTS
BLOSSOM EVERY YEAR
DIFFERENT COLORS DEPENDING ON SPECIES

Country or area of origin: Mexico down through Central America
Mature height: not applicable - epiphytic plants
Sun Requirements: Full or part sun most areas
Cold Tolerance: To about 20 - 25 degrees F.
Water Requirements: Occasional spray
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Sold as clusters of four or more plants typically. Some are free standing clusters, others mounted to wood (cost a bit more)
Regular Prices: Small clusters $75 Bigger clusters $100-125, large mounted $125-$150
Size shown: Both sizes
Comments: Usually mounted with fishing line tied to galvanized nails. A spray every week or ten days is adequate unless super hot. Occasional spray with liquid fertilizer. Very reliable plants. Various species offered over time. Blossom in spring - fall.

ALOCASIA "CAL - ODORA"
UNUSUAL HYBRID DWARF - TYPE OF "ELEPHANT EAR PLANT"
TROPICAL LOOKING BUT SMALL! ALOCASIA NEVER OVER FOUR FEET TALL

Country or area of origin: Is a variety or hybrid type of plant
Mature height: 3 to 4 feet tall - suckers, forms small clumps.
Sun Requirements: Right on coast - full sun. Far inland filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: To about low to mid 20's F.
Water Requirements: Appreciate adequate water
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g, both shown here.
Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $200
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments: Easy to grow if one gives them enough water. This hybrid is very short, much shorter than A. calidora below. Too much sun or lack of water browns leaves.

15 gallon size

15 gallon size
5 gallon size
5 gallon size

ALOCASIA CALIDORA
LARGE SIZE - BIG LEAVES
MATURE HEIGHT TO 8 FEET
LEAVES 4 FEET LONG OR MORE
SOME PREFER HYBRID ABOVE FOR SMALLER SIZE

Country or area of origin: Is a variety or hybrid type of plant
Mature height: 8 feet - suckers, forms clumps.
Sun Requirements: Right on coast - can take full sun. Far inland filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: To about low to mid 20's F.
Water Requirements: Appreciate adequate water
Rate of Growth: Medium to fast
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g, both shown here.
Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $200
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments: Easy to grow if one gives them enough water. This hybrid is bigger than one above. If you have room, very lush and attractive. Too much sun or lack of water browns leaves.

5 gallon size

15 gallon size

Photo by Eric in Orlando

ALOCASIA PORTORA
BIG LEAF SPECIES BUT NOT OVERLY TALL
STRIKINGLY BEAUTIFUL COMPANION PLANT

Country or area of origin: This Elephant Ear is also a hybrid with no native home.
Mature height: 5 - 7 feet, forms clumps.
Sun Requirements: Most areas along coast a little sun - Inland filtered light
Cold Tolerance: To about mid 20's F.
Water Requirements: Appreciate adequate water
Rate of Growth: Medium to fast
Sizes Available: 5g & 15g, latter shown here.
Regular Prices: 5g $100, 15g $200
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments: Easy to grow if one gives them enough water. This hybrid has a scalloped leaf with wavy leaf edges. It's more attractive than hybrid above and, in filtered light, a darker green. It's one of our favorites.

Photo by Austinbotany Website

ALOCASIA WENTI
A TYPE OF ELEPHANT EAR ALOCASIA
FRONT OF LEAF GREEN
BACK OF LEAF DARK PURPLE
SUPER COLD HARDY

Country or area of origin: New Guinea
Mature height: 3 to 4feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Mid-twenties F. and probably lower
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1 and 5 gallon
Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $100, 7g $165, 15g $200
Size shown: 1g and 5g
Comments: Easy to grow Alocasia that has purple backs to the leaves. It's probably one of the more cold hardy of any Alocasia. It suckers freely and makes small, contained clumps of plants. Also, super attractive in the garden.

purple color to back of leaf
1 gallon size

5 gallon size
photo by johnjearrard.co.uk website

ALOE BLUE ELF
SMALL SUCCULENT IN FLOWER
NICE 2G PLANTS
SMALL, COMPACT - FULL SUN

Country or area of origin: Hybrid with no native home
Mature height: 18 inches, blossom rising above
Sun Requirements: Most areas full sun
Cold Tolerance: To about mid 20's F.
Water Requirements: Water conserving
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 2g shown here.
Regular Prices: 2g $55 when available
Size shown: 2g
Comments: Easy to grow. Likes heat and sun. Blossoms orange and 2 to 3 feet tall. Foliage is blue color. Not a big plant but nice. Garden photo by asu.edu

ANGELS TRUMPET TREE
BRUGMANSIA
MOST HAVE PENDANT COLORFUL & FRAGRANT FLOWERS
BRAZILIAN CLOAK IS DIFFERENT
STUNNING UPRIGHT RED FLOWERS
IN PRODUCTION NOW!

Country or area of origin: South America
Mature height: Ten to twenty feet or more. Smaller in containers.
Sun Requirements: Strong filtered light to full sun
Cold Tolerance: Many will tolerate a freeze or lower.
Water Requirements: Average water
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 15 gallon
Regular Prices: To be determined
Size shown: Garden shots only
Comments: Brugsmania is a group of plants that have a florid show of hanging, trumpet shaped blossoms. And, they are fragrant. The first two pictures show such plants. But, there's one from Brazil that has upright red flowers.   See the last two pictures. This is the rarest of the group and is stunning! This is one we're hoping to have available this year. Of course, we're working on the other types as well.

photo by Wikipedia
photo by Bakker.com website

Brazilian cloak - photo by gumtree.com.au
Brazilian Cloak - photo by Igarden.com.au website

ANTHURIUM, FLOWERING ANTHURIUM KNOWN FOR THEIR FLOWERS
NEVER VERY BIT PLANTS
SOME COLD RISK
RED, PINK, WHITE AND OTHERS

Country or area of origin: Many species and hybrids. Native from Mexico down into northern South America
Mature height: Epiphytic plants in nature, usually under 2 feet tall. Domestically grown in pots.
Sun Requirements: Filtered light for most
Cold Tolerance: To upper 20's F.
Water Requirements: Average water
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 6" and 8" pots shown here
Regular Prices: $45 to $55, depending on species/variety/size
Size shown: 6 and 8 inch pots
Comments: These plants like proper care for continual blossoming. Blossoms are red, white, pink with some black-red flowers. We've never had yellow. They prefer filtered light, good humidity and occasional fertilizer. They give instant color to the garden or patio. Easy to grow in a greenhouse.

ANTHURIUM
BIRDSNEST ANTHURIUM
ANTHURIUM HOOKERI
EXOTIC WIDE WRINKLED LEAVES
NEVER GET TOO BIG

Country or area of origin: Ecuador and Columbia in South America where it typically grows epiphytically
Mature height: Epiphytic plants in nature, usually under 6 feet tall. Domestically grown in pots and about the same mature height.
Sun Requirements: Filtered light for most people
Cold Tolerance: Mid to upper 20's F.
Water Requirements: Average water
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: Some 5g, 7g and 20g
Regular Prices: 5g size $100, 7g $155+, 15g $200 to $275, 20g inquire
Size shown: 5g, 7g and 20g
Comments: These are one of the most cool companion plants you can add to the garden.   Leaves are wide and long with a thick wrinkled texture and scalloped edges. Leaves can get an impressive five feet long! Plants will flower producing red seeds. Very easy to grow.

This and next 4 pictures 7g size

20 gallon size
Photo by Plant Places Website
5 gallon size

photo c/o Wikipedia

ANTHURIUM, EXOTIC SPECIES
ALL NATIVE TO THE AMERICAS
SOME TERRESTRIAL - OTHERS EPIPHYTIC IN TREES
ALL VERY BEAUTIFUL AND COLLECTIBLE
MANY GROW THEM AS INTERIOR PLANTS - BUT GREAT GARDEN COMPANION SPECIMENS

Country or area of origin: The Americas (New World)
Mature height: Anywhere from one foot to over eight feet
Sun Requirements: Most like filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Variable - Figure most don't want to see a freeze
Water Requirements: Average water
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: 1g to 25g
Regular Prices: Variable depending on size and rarity
Size shown: 1g to 25 gallon
Comments: Shown here are an assortment of exotic Anthurium we've had at the nursery in the past few months. Often we just get one of a species. Then we try to get others. Most are from private collectors. You'll likely find none of these at regular nurseries. All are super desirable.
Of note, all of these rare Anthurium are not a commercial product and only come from collectors. So, availability is sparse and rare.

AMOPHOPHALLUS
TUBERS WITH AMAZING BLOSSOMS!
AMORPHOPHALLUS TITANUM:
LARGEST INFLORESCENCE IN WORLD!
YES, WE OFFER THEM FOR SALE FROM TIME TO TIME

Country or area of origin: Asia, Africa, Australia and some Pacific Islands
Mature height: There are about 200 species in this genus. Most don't get that tall. I'd estimate mature heights ranging from a few feet up to eight feet (not counting blossom)
Sun Requirements: Most like filtered light
Cold Tolerance: I think a safe rule is that none really tolerate a freeze.
Water Requirements: Average water
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: 3 to 5g
Regular Prices: Variable depending on size and rarity
Size shown: When available, usually 1 to 5g size
Comments: Amorphophallus are a very different and unique genus of plants.   Amorphophallus titanum is known for having the largest flower of any plant in the world. (see photo below) All have different stems/foliage and flowers. Note the interesting spots on the stems here. If you are in a frost free area, these are fun to try. The two I've had recently as shown here are an unknown type. As a group, these are known as the "Voodo Plants".

Amorphophallus species

Another Amorphophallus species

Amorphophallus titanum c/o Wikipedia

AURICARIA ANGUSITFOLIA
A CONIFEROUS EVERGREEN
NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND
THIS SPECIES NATIVE TO SOUTH AMERICA
MAKE LARGE MATURE TREES
VERY DIFFERENT!

Country or area of origin: Brazil
Mature height: Over 100 feet and, in habitat, up to 200 feet tall
Sun Requirements: Full sun most areas
Cold Tolerance: Uncertain - rare - But felt to probably be low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Average water
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: 15 gallon and 20 gallon
Regular Prices: 15g $195 to $225, 20g $350 - $450
Size shown: 15 and 20g
Comments: Primitive tree with genus having habitats around the world. Is related to a Pine Tree. This species gets very tall with a thick trunk. Leaflets are bunched and prickly. Super rare and super striking!

Very full 15g, old

20 gallon size
photo by Prota4u.org website

BAMBOO
BAMBUSA MULTIPLEX 'ALPHONSE KARR'
COLD HARDY CLUMPING BAMBOO
GREEN STRIPES ON GOLD CANES
MATURE HEIGHT 15 TO 30 FEET

Country or area of origin: Eastern Asia and Himalayas
Mature height: to 25 feet but can be maintained at 10 to 12 feet with pruning
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest
Water Requirements: Ample water
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 15g size only
Regular Prices: $195
Size shown: 15 gallon
Comments: This is described as a clumping type of Bamboo. It has 1.5 inch stems that are yellow with thin green stripes. It is a fairly quick grower. Remember, all Bamboo like water. At the Nursery we're not huge fans of Bamboo, so we carry very few plants of Bamboo. We've found that most types just take over a garden.

Photo c/o MrBamboo Website, Australia

BAMBOO - MEXICAN WEEPING BAMBOO
OTATEA ACUMINATA
THIN LEAFLETS, HANGING LEAVES
SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED
SUPER POPULAR

Country or area of origin: Mexico
Mature height: Containerized, 6 to 8 feet. In ground to 20 feet.
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest
Water Requirements: Ample water but, once established, water can be cut back.
Rate of Growth: Average
Sizes Available: 15g size only
Regular Prices: sold out
Size shown: 15 gallon
Comments: This is a clumping bamboo. Anticipate it's planting girth to double in three to five years. It responds to water, especially if not doing well. You can maintain height through pruning and also grow it in nice pot.

Photo by PlantBook.org website

BIRD OF PARADISE,
GIANT BIRD OF PARADISE
STRELITZIA NICOLAI
SUCKERING LARGE PLANT
LOOKS LIKE A BANANA

Country or area of origin: South Africa
Mature height: In ground, typically 25 feet tall, 15 feet wide or more
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest. Will not take into the teens.
Water Requirements: Ample water but, once established, water can be cut back.
Rate of Growth: Moderate to fast. Tend to "take over" an area.
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g size on request
Regular Prices: $85 for 5g.
Size shown: 5 gallon
Comments: This is an aggressive plant. We are not too fond of them but feel obligated to mention them here because so many people think "they have to have one". They are a high maintenance plant. Without good care and pruning, they get very scrappy looking.   Be aware they can lift decking and foundations. Many nurserymen consider them to be "Junk Plants"

5 gallon plants shown here

BIRD OF PARADISE
STRELITZIA REGINAE
THE SMALL BIRD OF PARADISE
COLORFUL BLOSSOMS
NEVER OVER ABOUT 4 TO 5 FEET TALL
ALSO SHOWING S. JUNCEA AND "SPOONER" FORM

Country or area of origin: South Africa
Mature height: In ground, typically 4 feet tall
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest. Will not take into the teens.
Water Requirements: Average water
Rate of Growth: Moderate, but never getting too tall.
Sizes Available: 15g size
Regular Prices: $15g $155, rare forms more
Size shown: 15 gallon
Comments: This plant is nothing like the Giant Bird of Paradise. It stays small and is much more attractive. It never "takes over" an area. The blossom is gold with red and blue highlights. These are easy to grow. The two other forms are just as easy to grow but the blossoms are a bit different.

15g size

Spooner form
photo by DirkvdM Wikipedia

BANANA
DWARF CAVENDISH OR GRAN NAIN FRUITING BANANA
NEVER OVER 6 FEET, COLD HARDY
ONLY FRUITING BANANA THAT DOES GREAT IN SOUTHERN CA
VARIETY SHOWN "GRAN NAIN"

Country or area of origin: Is cultivar so no native home per se
Mature height: In ground, typically 6 feet tall
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest. Will not take into the teens.
Water Requirements: Ample water
Rate of Growth: Moderate, but never getting too tall.
Sizes Available: 5g & 15g size
Regular Prices: $1g $45-$55, 5g $85, 15g $195
Size shown: 5 gallon
Comments: This is the most popular fruiting banana for Southern CA. It never gets tall and it's not hard to set fruit. The variety shown is an ideal fruiting variety called Musa Gran Nain - which we recommend.

photo c/o Wikipedia

BANANA, THE RED BANANA
ENSETE VENTRICOSUM MAURELII
THE ABYSSIAN BANANA
SHORT LIFE BUT VERY PRETTY
DOESN'T PRODUCE FRUIT

Country or area of origin: South and central Africa
Mature height: In ground, typically 15 feet or more
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: To mid to upper 20's at coldest. Will not take into the teens.
Water Requirements: Ample water
Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground
Sizes Available: 1g, 5g & 15g size
Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $100, 15g $200
Size shown: 5 gallon & 15 gallon
Comments: This single trunk species is not a true banana. It'll never produce fruit. It grows quickly and has a short life. When it blossoms, it dies a short time later. This can take two to four years. Leaves are green with red highlights.

photo by Linda Cochran
photo by Carl Garscens Flikr

BANANA, VARIEGATED
REG AND GREEN, BLACK AND GREEN
MUSA ZEBRINA
MUSA SUMATRANA

Country or area of origin: Indonesia
Mature height: In ground, typically 15 feet or more
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: Upper 20's F., perhaps colder
Water Requirements: Ample water
Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground
Sizes Available: 15g size as shown when available
Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $100, 15g $200
Size shown: 15 gallon
Comments: This is a suckering species of Banana that gives edible fruit - I can't vouch for how it tastes. The leaves are variegated with a purple brown on a green leaf. They like sun or at least part sun along the coast. Inland areas may require filtered light.

Leaf of Musa sumatrana

This and following photos all M. zebrina

BANANA - YELLOW FLOWERING
ENSETE LASIOCARPUM
CHINESE YELLOW BANANA
FLOWER HUGE - TOO BIG FOR PLANT!

Country or area of origin: China, high elevation
Mature height: In ground, typically 3 to 5 feet
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: To low 20's F. or even colder
Water Requirements: Ample water
Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground
Sizes Available: 5g size, sometimes bigger
Regular Prices: $5g size $95 when available
Size shown: 5 gallon
Comments: This dwarf species does not bear fruit and never gets over your head. The prominent yellow blossom is peculiar as it's almost too big for the plant. See photo. We have this type of Banana available from time to time.

photo c/o Wikipedia

BEGONIA
ALL SORTS OF TYPES
SOME KNOW FOR FLOWERS
OTHERS FOR DIFFERENT FOLIAGE

Country or area of origin: Arica, Asia, Central America
Mature height: Hundreds of species/types. Heights 1 foot to 12 feet
Sun Requirements: Most want filtered light but there are a few that will take coastal sun
Cold Tolerance: Many are frost tolerant and go into the mid-twenties F. But, some tropical types don't take a freeze.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: When available, usually 1g or 2g. Rarely have larger
Regular Prices: 1g $30 to $40, 5g $85 when available
Size shown: 1 and 2 gallon
Comments: This diverse group of plants are a great addition to any garden. Assume they want filtered light unless you know otherwise. You'll add some to add bold color. Others have very peculiar, different and yet attractive foliate.

The first 2 rows of pictures show flowering
types of Begonia

This row shows Begonia known for their foliage

BLACK ROSE
AEONIUM ARBOREUM
BLACK-RED COMPANION PLANT
SMALL AND EASY TO GROW

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
Regular Prices: 1g, $45 2g $65, 5g $95
Size shown: 1 & 5 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.

AEONIUMS
OTHER SPECIES
MULTIPLE TYPES

Country or area of origin: Canary Islands, Madeira, Morocco, East Africa
Mature height: 26 species, variable heights, most not over six feet. Some form small bushes.
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: Many to mid-20's F.
Water Requirements: Water conserving
Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground
Sizes Available: 1g, 2g and 5g
Regular Prices: 1g, $35, 2g $55, 5g $85
Size shown: 1 & 5 gallon
Comments: As you can see from the photos here, we have four or five varieties/species that are different from the Black Rose. All are cool, all are xerophytic and take sun and none get very large.

ANGELS TRUMPET GOLD
DURANTA CHARLES GRIMALDI
BIG TRUMPET SHAPED HANGING FLOWERS
NEVER TOO TALL
SHRUB TYPE OF PLANT

Country or area of origin: South America - Andes
Mature height: More shrub like to 8 to 12 fee
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas or tolerates part sun
Cold Tolerance: Mid to low twenties F.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground
Sizes Available: 20g, limited supply
Regular Prices: 20g $275
Size shown: 20g
Comments: Big golden hanging flowers. Never gets much over 10 feet. Multiple trunks this plant for lots of color when blossoms. Snails and insects like this genus. Also, leaves toxic container hallucinogen. Never eat flowers or leaves! Note: Compare this plant with Brugsmania below.

Photo by finegardening.com website

BOTTLE TREE
BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS
FAT SNAKESKIN TRUNK
MAKES LARGER TREE, THIN LEAF
KNOWN FOR ITS TRUNK AND FOLIAGE

Country or area of origin: Queensland, Australia
Mature height: Over 50 feet with a massive trunk. Reports of trunks with an eleven foot diameter!
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: Low to medium
Water Requirements: Water conserving
Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $195
Size shown: 15g
Comments: This larger garden tree is actually easy to grow. It has a cold tolerance to the low 20's F. It is known for a smooth and wide trunk. It's a snakeskin type of trunk surface. The tree bulges towards its base giving it a very different appearance. The leaflets are narrow, letting in nice filtered light.

by anbg.gov

by Adelaide Zoo Website, Australia

BRAZILIAN CANDLES TREE
PAVONIA MULTIFLORA
RED BLOSSOMS IN SHADE!
SEMI-DWARF - NOT OVER SIX TO SEVEN FEET
RARE AND GORGEOUS

Country or area of origin: Brazil
Mature height: Six to seven feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light or some sun - not a full, hot sun tree
Cold Tolerance: Uncertain but probably mid-twenties F.
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 1g & 5g
Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $95
Size shown: 1 and 5 gallon Note, availability recently very low
Comments: This rare dwarf tropical tree give color in filtered light. The blossoms are a dark red as shown. Tree height is short, rarely over six to seven feet. And, it flowers all year long - even during the Holidays! Blossom size is about three inches. These are quite rare and super difficult to find.

15 gallon size

15 and 20g size
Photo by Duonrevig Website

BRAZILIAN FERN TREE
BRAZILIAN FIRE TREE
SCHIZILOBIUM PARHYBA
AKA SCHIZOBILUM EXCELSA

Country or area of origin: Brazil
Mature height: In the wild, up to 80 feet or more. In domestic U.S. locations, typically 35 feet
Sun Requirements: Sun
Cold Tolerance: Mid-twenties. May drop leaves in cold weather - typically goes deciduous in So Cal
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Fast
Sizes Available: Not available right now
Regular Prices: when available, tend to be expensive
Size shown: 5g
Comments: This species of tropical tree is known for the light shade it produces below its canopy. It is a perfect light shade producing tree. It grows quickly and has sort of a snake skin, thinner trunk. The crown is wispy and very pretty. It is coveted by collectors. We tend to run out of them but fortunately, from time to time, we get them in.

photo by biogeo.db.stri.si website
photo by Flikr, unknown author

BRAZILIAN PLUME TREE
FLAMINGO PLANT
JACOBINIA CARNEA (JUSTICA C.)
PRETTY, PINK AND DWARF
FABULOUS SPRING SHOW OF COLOR
RARE, HARD TO FIND, ALMOST LOST TO THE NURSERY TRADE

Country or area of origin: Brazil
Mature height: About four feet, rarely taller
Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: Mid to upper twenties, F.
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Slow growing
Sizes Available: 5 & 7 gallon size
Regular Prices: 5g $95 7g $165
Size shown: 7g
Comments: This delightful small bush puts out a tremendous show of large pink blossoms in the spring. It's really spectacular, especially given the volume of blossoms for the plants overall size. If it gets to tall, pruning can keep it short. We have super limited supplies of this and our sources are running out of this species.

BROMELIADS
ALL TYPES AND SIZES
ALL COLORS OF THE RAINBOW
WE OFFER A GREAT SELECTION!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Country or area of origin: New World, the Americas
Mature height: Variable, typically 1 foot to four feet tall
Sun Requirements: Some want sun, others want filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Variable with species but typically mid to upper 20's F..
Water Requirements: Water conserving
Rate of Growth: Slow but dependable
Sizes Available: 1g, 2g and 5g
Regular Prices: Depends on rarity and size - inquire as we have dozens of species - Range smaller $45 & up
Size shown: 1, 2 & 5 gallon
Comments: This group of plants is one of our favorites and customers just can't get enough of them. Almost all are colorful and remain rather small. Some take sun, others shade. But, all are very attractive and colorful! Availability of these colorful Bromeliads almost changes on a weekly basis. The most deisrable sell out quickly.

CALENDIVA
RELATED TO KALENCHOE
LARGE FLOWERS IN RED, PINK AND WHITE
FABULOUS PLANTS BUT OFTEN OUT OF STOCK

Country or area of origin: A cultivar, man made
Mature height: Variable, typically 1 foot, sometimes more
Sun Requirements: Filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Best to keep away from a freeze
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: smaller, typically 1g
Regular Prices: When available, typically $30 to $45
Size shown: 1gallon
Comments: This group of colorful plants was developed as a hybrid/cultivar from colorful Kalanchoe plants. They have intensely bright colors with large blooms.

Photo c/o Bunnings Website, AUUU

CALOCASIA
SMALLER BUT SUPER TROPICAL COMPANION PLANTS
TYPICALLY FLAT, HEART SHAPE LEAVES
SHOWING TWO SPECIES HERE
COLD SENSITIVITY ISSUES

Country or area of origin: As a group from Asia and India.
Mature height: Variable depending on variety or species. Typically 3 to 5 feet. Not overly big. Some varieties like Taro get taller.
Sun Requirements: Filtered light or a bit of sun
Cold Tolerance: The biggest problem. They cannot take a freeze. In fact, any temperature in the 30's F. is hard on them.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: When in stock, 1 & 5g size
Regular Prices: When available, 1g $45 & 5g are $95
Size shown: 5 gallon
Comments: This is an interesting group these are very cool plants. But, I'd say they are difficult to grow in the garden because of cold issues. If you live in a tropical area, they are easy. But, here they seem to go downhill over the years. Note that there are many hybrids and cultivars and some may be more cold hardy than others. The ones we've tried, as a group, have been difficult. But, presently we have at least five to ten different Calocasia species that have wintered over and are available in 1g and 5g size. A very popular variety is "mojito" (6th photo below).

This and next 3 pictures Alocasia "Black Magic"

Photo c/o Wayside Gardens Website

This an next 3 pictures unknown species
of Alocasia

CANNA LILY
NICE 5G NOW AVAILABLE
DARK PURPLE LEAVES
ORANGE, YELLOW AND MULTICOLORED
EVEN A VARIEGATED LEAF FORM

Country or area of origin: From all areas of the Americas - US to South America
Mature height: Typically four to eight feet
Sun Requirements: Most want sun along the coast but can do with part sun
Cold Tolerance: Variable - most don't due well with cold weather or a freeze. But, they often come back in summer.
Water Requirements: Water average usage
Rate of Growth: Slow but dependable
Sizes Available: 5g
Regular Prices: 5g are typically $75
Size shown: 5 gallon
Comments: I've been impressed that most Canna's look a bit scrappy in winter and then emerge in summer absolutely beautiful as shown here. Shown here are three different varieties including one that has dark leaves and orange blossoms. We get several types in during summer - see photos. When in the garden, keep them under control and they can spread. But, they are nice color when it's hot.

CANNA TROPICANNA
EXOTIC FOLIAGE, GOLD FLOWER
GREAT UNDERSTORY PLANT
GORGEOUS YELLOW FLOWERS!

Country or area of origin: New World, the Americas
Mature height: Variable, typically 4 to 6 feet tall
Sun Requirements: Want full sun most areas
Cold Tolerance: Are hurt by freezes - come back in summer usually.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Slow but dependable
Sizes Available: 5g
Regular Prices: 5g $75
Size shown: 5 gallon
Comments: This popular plants are known for both their vibrant yellow flowers but also their multicolored leaves with red, green, yellow and other hues. We typically only have limited numbers in summer. BTW, all Canna look bad during winter but spring back to glory in late spring.

Other types of Canna Lilies

ORANGE CLIVIA
SHOWER OF SPRING BLOSSOMS
TWO COLORS: ORANGE AND YELLOW

Country or area of origin: South Africa
Mature height: Variable, but typically 18 to 30 inches maximum they do slowly clump over time
Sun Requirements: Most areas filtered light or a little sun. Santa Ana conditions will burn them in hot sun.
Cold Tolerance: Low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Slow but dependable
Sizes Available: 1g & 5g
Regular Prices: 1g $45 & 5g $75 with large clusters $95.
(for orange color) Yellow more expensive
Size shown: 5 gallon
Comments: This popular plant is used for early spring color. They through up long lasting clusters of blossoms. Orange is the one you usually see around. But, the yellow is very nice and super rare. These are a super dependable plant.

typical orange blossom

more rare yellow blossom which we have
unknown photographer Flikr
unknown photographer

THE COFFEE TREE
COFFEA ARABICA
YES, THE COFFEE YOU DRINK
GREAT GARDEN OR HOUSE PLANT
WHEN RIPE, RED FRUIT BERRIES

Country or area of origin: Originated in Ethiopia. Now found in many tropical areas
Mature height: Mature trees on farms average ten to twenty feet although much taller in wild
Sun Requirements: If adequate humidity, can take full sun. In Southern California partial sun is better.
Cold Tolerance: Temperatures above a freeze
Water Requirements: Moderate or more
Rate of Growth: Fairly quick growing. Well grown will fruit in seven years
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: (when available) 3-5g $75, 15g $185
Size shown: 5 & 15g gallon
Comments: There is no question that Coffea can be grown in the right Southern California gardens. Mine produced coffee fruit for years and was in part day sun in San Diego. Leaves are a glossy green and these plants make a wonderful houseplant.

Coffee berries at nursery - red when mature

COLEUS PLANTS
LOTS OF COLORS
LARGE, FULL PLANTS
DO NEED SOME MAINTENANCE

Country or area of origin: Southeast Asia
Mature height: Variable, typically 2 to 5 feet depending on pruning
Sun Requirements: Want filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Are hurt by freezes. Temperatures in the mid-twenties F. will kill them.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Fairly quick growing
Sizes Available: 5g
Regular Prices: 5g $55 when available
Size shown: 5 gallon
Comments: There are quite a few species in this genus. They vary in terms of leaf color and design, leaf size and shape and overall height. But, there's usually one for everyone. Their availability is sporadic so best to contact us if you are interested in these plants. Cutting back lanky stems is essentially to keep them shaped and flowering stems tend to go bad. So, most trim off blossoms. We typically offer these in summer when they look best.

CORDYLINE AUSTRALIS
RED HYBRID FORM
FULL SUN - TEN FEET HEIGHT
THIN TRUNK MATURE

Country or area of origin: New Zealand, Australia and Western Pacific
Mature height: Will, over time, get to a height of about 8 to 10 feet
Sun Requirements: Want full sun most coastal areas
Cold Tolerance: They are damaged by the combination of cold and wet. So, keep them dryer in winter. Cold tolerance mid-twenties F.
Water Requirements: Average or a bit less
Rate of Growth: Slow but dependable
Sizes Available: 5g and rarely larger
Regular Prices: 5g $95 15 gallon $185
Size shown: 5 gallon
Comments: There are multiple cultivars with different colors. Shown here is the "Red Star" in the first 2 pictures with some multi-colored plants afterwards. People sometimes called these "Ti Plants" (Below - which are also a type of Cordyline) but these have more narrow leaves and are more cold hardy. They also take direct sun along the coast.

Photo c/o Wikipedia

CRINUM AMABILE PURPLE
LARGE CRINUM TYPE LILY
AKA "QUEEN EMMA LILY"
OVERHEAD WITH STRIKING FLOWERS
PURPLE-GREEN LEAVES
VERY LIMITED AVAILABILITY!

Country or area of origin: Asia, Australia and Africa
Mature height: Average mature height six to seven feet
Sun Requirements: Can tolerate full coastal sun although part day sun is better. Far inland would be filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Estimated into the mid-twenties F.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Slow but dependable
Sizes Available: 15g asnd sometimes 20 - 25g and smaller 2 gallon.
Regular Prices: Request quote
Size shown: 20-25 gallon
Comments: This near impossible to find Crinum is unusual because of its size. Leaves can get up to six feet long. They sucker forming a clump as shown. Their availability is very limited. We're investigated propagation and hopefully will offer small plant soon. Flowers are large and purple and white in color.

CROTON PLANTS
MANY VARIETIES
LOTS OF COLORS MIXED TOGETHER
DIFFICULTY IS COLD WEATHER
BUT, GREAT COLOR FOR THE GARDEN

Country or area of origin: Asia, India and Western Pacific
Mature height: Depends on species but anywhere from four feet to ten feet or taller
Sun Requirements: In tropical areas, full sun. Here in So Cal, perhaps some sun but filtered light in warm winter inland areas.
Cold Tolerance: No species really tolerate a freeze. Winter protection needed.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 5g and smaller and sometimes 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $75+, smaller sizes typically $35 to $55. Rarely we have 7g and 15g which cost more.
Size shown: 5 & 15gallon
Comments: The main issue with Crotons is cold. They just don't take it too well. The thin leaf varieties are more cold hardy. There are probably a hundred different species or types of Croton. Some are smaller, some make "trees". You just have to find a species that grows well in your area.

DESERT ROSE
ADENIUM OBESUM
RED FLOWERING PLANT
CALLED "THE DESERT ROSE"
MINIATURE PLANT, USED FOR BONSAI
YES, AN ASSORTMENT OF BLOSSOM COLORS

Country or area of origin: Africa, south of Sahara Desert
Mature height: About 2 to 4 feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light most areas
Cold Tolerance: No varieties tolerate a freeze. Winter protection needed.
Water Requirements: Light, especially in winter
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 4 inch starter plants and 2g which we sometimes have.
Regular Prices: 4 inch $20, 1g $35, 2g $65. Larger sizes on request
Size shown: 4 inch and 2g
Comments: These are miniature succulent type trees. They have an assortment of blossom colors including pink and red. They are not tolerant of severe cold and essentially want little water when it is cold. Otherwise, they rot out. This is as seasonal plant for us. We've not been impressed by their survivability over time.
This and next 2 pictures 4 inch pot size

2 gallon size

This and next 2 pictures bonsai mature
blooming plant

DRAGON TREE
DRACENA DRACO
UNUSUAL LARGE TREE
FAIRLY UNCOMMON TO SEE
REMEMBER: GIVE IT ROOM TO GROW

Country or area of origin: Canary Islands, Cape Verde and western Morocco
Mature height: Mature, 30 feet or much more with lots of branching of limbs and width to the crown
Sun Requirements: Full sun almost all areas
Cold Tolerance: Estimated to be mid to low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Light to moderate - can tolerate some drought
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: Typically 5g, 15g 20g and 25g. Sometimes smaller plants
Regular Prices: 5g, $85, 15g $195 to $200, 20g $350+, 25g and boxes on request
Size shown: All sizes above
Comments: This interesting tree is commonly sought after by people who want something different in their garden. When young, it tends to have a single trunk. However, with age, it branches. It's best to have this branching occur above head height. The trunk and limbs are thick and "sausage appearing". Leaf color is gray. WE have or can get any size needed. But, be aware that large, branching trees are very difficult to transport because limbs can snap off easily. BTW, rarely we'll get in other species of Yucca.

This and next two pictures 5g size

This and next photo 15g size

This and next two pictures 20g (on left here)

This and next photo 25g size

DRACENA PLANTS
OTHER SPECIES
CAN BE USED IN THE GARDEN OR HOUSE
MANY VARIETIES AVAILABLE
AN "OLD TIME" FAVORITE

Country or area of origin: Madagascar, Mauritius, and other localities
Mature height: Depends on degrees of maturity and species. Figure younger plant several feet, mature over ten feet on most of the available species. Note some plants will branch, especially if top-pruned.
Sun Requirements: Full sun for some along the coast. Or, safer, is filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Above a frost more most but some take temperatures into the 20's F. .
Water Requirements: Light to moderate
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: Typically 5g and sometimes larger
Regular Prices: Depends on size, species and height. A general rule is a 5g is $65 to $125- interior quality cost more
Size shown: 5 and 15g
Comments: These plants are totally different than the Dragon Tree. They have much smaller canes/trunks and don't have the crown width as seen with the Dragon. Most can be used as houseplants and stay under ceiling height. But, in the garden many just do fine if you don't freeze. The popular "Lucky Bamboo" is actually a type of Dracena. If we don't have what you want, we can usually get it.

DUDLEYA BRITTONII
GIANT DWARF CHALK DUDLEYA
ALMOST WHITE IN COLOR
BEAUTIFUL MATURE PLANTS AVAILABLE

Country or area of origin: Baja, Mexico
Mature height: About 18 inches maximum. Are about as wide (or more) than they are tall.
Sun Requirements: Full sun.
Cold Tolerance: Lower 20's F.
Water Requirements: Low
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 4 inch, 1g, and sometimes 3g as shown here
Regular Prices: 4 inch $25, 1g $55, 3g $85 when available
Size shown: 3 or 5 & gallon
Comments: This attractive succulent is super white in color. During winter and with more water it gets a blue color. It is a dwarf plant usually about as wide as tall. The white is a waxy substance that rubs off the leaflets - so don't pet the leaves. It wants little water when cold in winter. Of note taxonomists now consider Dudleya to be a type of Echeveria. We have these on occasion. .

3 gallon size, mature

Plant in flower - Note more blue summer color
Older flower
smaller plants available - 4 inch

DURANTA ERECTA - VARIEGATED
THE SAPHIRE SHOWER TREE
CLUSTERS OF PURPLE-BLUE FLOWERS
BLOSSOMS IN SUMMER

Country or area of origin: Mexico, South America and the Caribbean
Mature height: Twenty feet, almost as wide
Sun Requirements: Full sun.
Cold Tolerance: Lower 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $75, 15g $175
Size shown: 5 & 15gallon
Comments: This medium sized mature tree has florid clusters of purple-blue flowers in summer. It's a good grower and has variegated foliage.

photo by 123rf.com website.

DYCKIA SPECIES
A SOUTH AMERICAN BROMELIAD
LOVES ARID, DRY LOCATIONS
SUPER RED IN SUN

Country or area of origin: Brazil and central South America - high altitude
Mature height: 1-2 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun.
Cold Tolerance: Lower 20's F.
Water Requirements: Light
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: one size, 8 inch 2 gallon
Regular Prices: 2g clusters $75, rare
Size shown: 2g
Comments: Interesting and rare species of suckering, terrestrial bromeliad that likes heat and sun. In shade, it'll turn green. In sun, beautiful red. Spiny leaves. Easy to grow.

ECHEVERIA "RED RUFFLES"
DWARF SUCCULENT WITH GOOD COLOR
NATIVE TO MEXICO

Country or area of origin: Mexico
Mature height: 1-2 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun.
Cold Tolerance: Protect from freeze
Water Requirements: Light
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 6 inch - one gallon
Regular Prices: This size $35, larger 5g $55
Size shown: 5 inch/1gallon
Comments: Interesting red succulent with cute ruffled leaves that takes full sun on the coast.

EUPHORBIA CONTINIFOLIA
CARIBBEAN COPPER PLANT
SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED BUSH OR TREE
PURPLE TO COPER COLORED LEAVES

Country or area of origin: Caribbean
Mature height: Variable, depending on pruning. Can get over ten feet tall
Sun Requirements: Full sun.
Cold Tolerance: Mid to low 30's F. Can go deciduous if gets colder.
Water Requirements: Light
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $185
Size shown: 5g
Comments: As the last picture shows, you can shape this plant into anything you'd like. It gets great color. Left alone, it'll get way overhead.

photo by statebystategardening website

FERNS

FERN
THE AUSTRALIAN TREE FERN
CYATHEA COOPERI
TALL, OVERHEAD TREE FERN
FILTERED LIGHT OR PART SUN

Country or area of origin: Australia
Mature height: In habitat to 50 feet with an 8 to 12 inch thick trunk. Domestically more common to see 20 foot mature trees.
Sun Requirements: On coast, sun or part sun. Far inland, morning sun (little bit) or filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Mid-twenties F. But, cold damage may resolve with new growth in the spring.
Water Requirements: Medium, if very hot heavy watering for a while
Rate of Growth: Medium to fast
Sizes Available: 1g, commonly 5g, sometimes 15g or larger
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 5g $95, 15g $195 or more, depending on size
Size shown: 5g, 25g
Comments: This is the classic "Tree Fern" species that is used in parks, commercial plantings and private gardens. They are an easy fern to grow given enough water and rich well-draining soil. They have long leaves, often 8 feet long or more. We usually have nice 5g or 15g available.

This and most photos below are of our 5g size

older 25 gallon plants at nursery

Photo c/o PlantLust Website
Photo by Mundani-Garden Website

FERN
THE AUTUMN FERN
DRYOPTERIS ERYTHOSA
JAPANESE SHIELD FERN
COPPER RED LEAVES
SMALL COMPANION PLANT

Country or area of origin: Eastern Asia
Mature height: 2 feet or less
Sun Requirements: Filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Into the teens F.
Water Requirements: Medium to heavy
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 3 or 5g $85
Size shown: 1 gallon
Comments: This species of fern is definitely a dwarf with heights of 1 to 2 feet. New leaves, at certain times of the year, emerge a copper color. It slowly spreads but is not invasive. It's also very cold hardy.

FERN
BIRDS NEST FERN
ASPLENIUM NIDUS
MEDIUM SIZED - GETS TO FOUR FEET
KEEP THE SNAILS AWAY

Country or area of origin: Asia, Australia and multiple Pacific Islands
Mature height: 6 feet or more
Sun Requirements: Filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Mid-20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium to heavy
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g, 2g, 5g and larger on occasion
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 2g $55, 5g $85
Size shown: all of above
Comments: This popular fern is gorgeous when grown well. It likes filtered light. Over maybe five to ten years you can get a huge specimen. Snails enjoy them as well. We have a varied selection that changes over time.

1g/6 inch size

5 gallon size
Ruffled variety not available at this time

25g size
Photo c/o Wikipedia

FERN
THE BLECHNUM GIBBUM
MINIATURE TREE FERN
THE SILVER LADY FERN
NEVER OVER FIVE TO SIX FEET
SUPER "CUTE"

Country or area of origin: islands of the South Pacific including New Caledonia, Hawaii and others
Mature height: 4 - 5 feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Mid to low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium to heavy
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g and 5g (never big enough for 15g pot)
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 2g $55 (typically large), 5g $95
Size shown: 1g, 5g, and one 15g
Comments: This fern is one of our favorites. It resembles a cycad in a way. The stem is only two inches thick, leaves are two feet long and it never gets overhead. There are many types of "Blechnum" ferns. This one is unique. They are a good grower and everyone who gets one loves it.

5 gallon size

5 gallon size
1 gallon size

20 year old dug specimen
photo by Growingontheedge Website

FERN
BLUE STAR FERN
PHLEBODIUM AUREUM
THE GOLDEN SERPENT FERN
LEAVES WITH A DEFINITE BLUE COLOR

Country or area of origin: The Americas, but only on the eastern coast. Extends from the gulf states through Mexico into Central and South America - Also seen in the Caribbean
Mature height: Averages 2 to 3 feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Mid to low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium to heavy
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 5g $85
Size shown: 1g
Comments: This fern is very commonly seen as an epiphytic fern in trees in the above areas. But, it can be grown in the ground. Leaves are blue green. It slowly creeps along the ground and spreads. It's never very tall and would make a good ground cover that's different.

Photo by Karl Gerscens Flikr



FERN
BRAKE FERN, VARIEGATED
ALSO CALLED SILVER LACE FERN
PTERIS ENSIFORMIS EVERGEMIENSIS
SMALL FERN WITH VARIEGATED LEAVES

Country or area of origin: China, SE Asia and Polynesia
Mature height: Averages 2 feet with green and white leaves striped longitudinally
Sun Requirements: Filtered light or shade. Not good for full hot sun.
Cold Tolerance: Mid 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium to heavy. Do not let it go dry.
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 5g$85
Size shown: 1g
Comments: This fern is desirable because of the variegated foliage. Leaves are actually more white than green. They slowly clump as they grow and never get tall. This fern is fairly rare and hard to find.

FERN
LACE FERN
MICROLEPIA STRIGOSA
SOFT FERN, FULL LOOK
TWO TO THREE FEET TALL MATURE

Country or area of origin: Asia and Hawaii
Mature height: Averages 2 to 3 feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g, sometimes large 5g
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 5g large $85
Size shown: 1g and 5g
Comments: This fern is is quite full and lush. It is typically about 3 feet tall and in clumps. It spreads by making rhizomes. It's fluffy and soft. It makes a good filler plant for the garden floor between large overhead trees.

This and next 3 pictures 1 gallon size

5 gallon size which sometimes we have

FERN
LEATHER FERN
RUMORHRA ADIANTIFORMIS
DWARF EVERYGREEN FERN
SUPER DURABLE
TAKES COASTAL SUN

Country or area of origin: The Americas, but only on the eastern coast.
Mature height: Averages 1 - 2 feet
Sun Requirements: Can take full coastal sun or any area filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Mid to low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium, better than many ferns
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g and 5g
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 5g $75
Size shown: 1g and 5g
Comments: This fern is amazing because of it's ability to take full coastal sun and still look good. It's not a big fern.   We planted several outside the nursery parking area and they are doing great with one watering a week. Their height is 18 inches, super full and thriving.

5 gallon size

1 gallon size
photo by SM.watersavingplants Website



FERN
MAIDENHAIR FERN
GENUS ADIANTUM SSP
OVER 200 SPECIES/VARIETIES
CLASSIC INTERIOR OR PATIO FERN
U.S. "CLASSIC" MAIDENHAIR FERN SHOWN HERE

Country or area of origin: Almost world wide including the Americas, Asia and other countries coast.
Mature height: Variable, but usually under two feet
Sun Requirements: Perhaps bright filtered light but no direct sun in most areas
Cold Tolerance: Above freezing
Water Requirements: Somewhat tricky. Don't want to dry out but also don't want to be kept mucky wet. Never let it go dry!
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g and occasionally 5g
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 2g $55, 5g $75
Size shown: 1g
Comments: Maidenhair ferns are very pretty and ten to be small plants. They are great for the window seal or patio. The trick is watering. Never let them go dry or you'll have to slower resurrect the plant. Never put in full sun!

5g size not available at this time

FERN
SQUIRREL'S FOOT FERN
DAVALLIA MARIESII
FURRY RHIZOMES
CRAWLS ON GROUND OR EPIPHYTIC IN TREES

Country or area of origin: Japan and eastern Asia
Mature height: Averages 1 foot
Sun Requirements: A small bit of sun or filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Low 20's F. Can go deciduous with colder weather but can come back.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g
Regular Prices: 1g $45 & 5g $95
Size shown: 1g
Comments: This fern can actually grow and survive on tree branches if humidity is high enough. It's a very low profile fern with small, long triangular shaped leaves and fur covered "feet" (rhizomes) that crawl along. Because of how it grows, it is also a candidate for a low profile ground cover. Or, use it to make a basket fern.

FERN
TASMANIAN TREE FERN
DICKSONIA ANTARCTICA
FAIRLY COLD HARDY, THINNER TRUNK

Country or area of origin: Queensland, southeastern Australia and Tasmania
Mature height: Much larger reported in habitat, but domestically usually about 15 feet. Overall stature is smaller than the Australian Tree Fern with shorter leaves.
Sun Requirements: Part day sun along the coast. Some grow it in full sun. Far inland, filtered light needed.
Cold Tolerance: Low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium, slower than Australian Tree Fern
Sizes Available: 1g, often 5g, sometimes larger
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 5g $85, 15g when available $185
Size shown: 1g and 5g
Comments: This is a more cold hardy tree fern species. It grows well in the SF Bay area. The spread of the crown of leaves is usually 8 to 10 feet.   When watering, it's ok to water the trunk but avoid spraying the crown as this may promote diseases.

Great photo by balconygardenweb.com website

FERN
TASSEL FERN
POLYSTICHUM POLYBLEPHARUM
HEIGHT TO TWO FEET
SHINY LEAVES

Country or area of origin: Japan, South Korea
Mature height: Averages 1.5 - 2 feet
Sun Requirements: A small bit of sun or filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Mid to low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g
Regular Prices: 1g $35 & 5g $85
Size shown: 1g
Comments: This fern is has emergent upright leaves that then arch over with age. Leaves are shiny and dark green. Leaves are bipinnate as shown here.

FERN
THE TONGUE FERN
ASPLENIUM
SIMPLE LEAF FERN
OVER 700 SPECIES OF ASPLENIUM

Country or area of origin: Europe and the U.S.
Mature height: 14 to 16 inches. Leaves simple-undivided
Sun Requirements: Part day sun along the coast. Far inland, filtered light needed.
Cold Tolerance: Low 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g, often 5g, sometimes larger
Regular Prices: Rare: 2g $55, 5g $95 (rare)
Size shown: 2g and 5g
Comments: This low profile fern has simple, undivided leaves that look like the tongue of a deer. Easy to grow and rare, fairly unusual appearing fern. Availability variable as it's hard to find these ferns.

photo c/o Missouri Botanical Garden

FIDDLE LEAF FIG
FICUS LYRATA
LEAVES SHAPED LIKE "FIDDLES"
MAKES BIG TREE WHEN MATURE
EASY TO GROW IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Country or area of origin: Western Africa
Mature height: To forty feet, usually smaller. Can maintain lower height with pruning.
Sun Requirements: Full sun along the coast although part sun is ok as well.
Cold Tolerance: Mid to upper 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Usually 5g, rarely have larger
Regular Prices: Rare: large 5g $55 - $125 depending on size. Interior quality may cost more.
Size shown: 5g
Comments: If you could go back forty years, the Fiddle Leaf Fig was a very popular houseplant. Then it fell out of popularity. In the past few years it's surged back and suppliers can't keep them in stock. So, it's used as an overhead houseplant. But, it's easy to grow outdoors if you don't get too cold. Remember, it's a Ficus so it can get big! Availability is variable but often we can special order larger plants for customers.

FICUS
OTHER SPECIES
ALL MAKE BIG TEEES
COMMON TO RARE

Country or area of origin: Many parts of the world
Mature height: Anticipate a minimum of ten to twenty feet on the smaller types and up to 80 feet on the larger.
Sun Requirements: Full sun most areas
Cold Tolerance: Mid to upper 20's F.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: F. benjamina: large 5g $55 - $100, 15g $150 to $250 When available F. roxburghii nice 15g $300
Size shown: 15g
Comments: Shown here first is Ficus benjamina, a common species often used as a houseplant. But, it and others, when in the garden can get very large. The Ficus roxburghii is super rare and has a large round leaf. The last two photos show how big Ficus can get and the buttress roots they form. Soon we will be offering other rare species like Ficus religiosa. For another super rare species read about F. dammaropsis below. Ficus species are often special order.

This and next picture Ficus benjamina

This and next 3 pictures Ficus roxburghii

Ficus, Banyan Tree
Banyan Tree buttress roots

FICUS DAMMAROPSIS
HIGHLAND BREADFRUIT
DINNER PLATE FIG
LARGEST LEAFED FICUS
SPORADICALLY AVAILABLE
STUNNINGLY ATTRACTIVE

Country or area of origin: New Guinea
Mature height: Variable, ten to thirty feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun along the coast although does well in part sun. Far inland perhaps filtered light if not freeze.
Cold Tolerance: Down to about a freeze
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: When available, 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: Out of stock right now. Please inquire.   We obtain this species from time to time.
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments: This is a fantastic plant for the garden if you have a non-freezing environment. The leaves can get up to three feet long and almost two feet across. They are pleated with red veins in the leaves. New leaves can emerge a somewhat red color. You can grow it as an overhead tree or prune it to be a more low-profile bush. These plants are super rare, almost impossible to propagate and never inexpensive.   I have two of these trees in my garden in San Diego that are branhing and overhead. Availability is spotty and unprdictable.

Photo by unknown author Flikr

FIRECRACKER GRASS
TYPE OF FOUNTAIN GRASS
GENUS PENNESETUM
GETS 4 TO 5 FEET TALL
A GOOD SHOWN OF RED FOR FULL SUN

Country or area of origin: East Africa, Middle East and lower parts of Asia
Mature height: Variable depending on variety but figure 3 to 5 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Down to about the mid twenties F.
Water Requirements: Average to low
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: When available, 5g
Regular Prices: 5g $65
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments: This is another example of easy red color for full sun. They clump but don't seem to run. I've mentioned it here for people trying to conserve water. this can take a bit of a drought.

Photo by Finegardening.com website

FLAX- RED
DWARF PLANT, COLD HARDY
TYPE OF PHORMIUM
A NEW ZEALAND RED FLAX
FAIRLY DROUGHT TOLERANT & COLD HARDY!

Country or area of origin: Cultivar, so no native habitat
Mature height: To three feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: To about 20 degrees F.
Water Requirements: Low once established
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Usually 5g
Regular Prices: 5g $65
Size shown: 5g
Comments: This drought tolerant and dwarf companion plant gets red in the hot sun and never gets over about 3 feet tall. It's becoming super popular with water restrictions. The plants at the nursery will get more red in bright sun. Available on request.

photo by Pacific Horticultural Society Website

FRUIT TREES

FRUIT TREE
POMEGRANATE TREE
PUNICA GRANATUM
BRIGHT RED FLOWERS!
AND, YOU GET FRUIT LATER

Country or area of origin: Middle East and eastern Mediterranean area
Mature height: Can prune to preferred height. Left alone can get over 20 feet tall.
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Cold tolerant to low teens F.
Water Requirements: Low once established
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Usually 15g
Regular Prices: 15g $165
Size shown: 15g
Comments: I mention this fruit tree for two reasons. First, it has very attractive red blossoms. But, it can be maintained as a smaller tree and easily bears fruit as shown here.

Picture of fruit c/o Wikipedia

FRUIT TREE
LOQUAT FRUIT TREE
ERIOBOTRYA JAPONICA
FRUITS IN LATE WINTER
YELLOW FRUITS WITH TROPICAL TASTE

Country or area of origin: Probably China
Mature height: Typically about 15 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Cold tolerant to at least the upper teens F.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $85, 15g $175
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments: This fruit tree has been cultivated for a thousand years in Japan. It is evergreen in most areas, not dropping its foliage. If you haven't tried it, you must. The taste is exotic and different. They have large central seeds.

Yellow fruit, photo c/o Wikipedia

FRUIT
PAPAYA TREE
THE MANGO TREE
MEXICAN TYPE BEST FOR MOST PEOPLE
IN FREEZE-FREE AREAS, WILL PRODUCE FRUIT

Country or area of origin: Felt to have originated in Mexico and Central America - Now grown many tropical areas and here in San Diego
Mature height: Typically about 15 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Cold tolerant to about a freeze
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium to fast
Sizes Available: 1g, 5g and rarely 15g
Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $85, 15g $225 (note, availability changes over time)
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments: This fruit tree produces large amounts of fruit in not too many years. From a growth and cold tolerance point of view, try to get the Mexican variety as opposed to a plant from Hawaiian varieties. The latter are dioecious and you need both males and females. Not so with the Mexican types. One tree will give you fruit. Papaya don't like to see a freeze. The last row of pictures show a 15g Mango tree.   This fruit is native to countries in Asia and can be grown in better areas in So Cal and produce fruit. Recently we've mostly been offering smaller 2g and 5g sizes - but we run out quickly.

The first 3 rows of pictures are of the Papaya

Photo by Infobarrel website

This and the next photo are a 15g Mango Tree

FURCREA MACDOUGALII
MEDIUM SIZED GRAY-BLUE PLANT
STIFF, UPRIGHT LEAVES
VERY DROUGHT TOLERANT

Country or area of origin: Mexico
Mature height: Typically 12 to 20 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: 20 to 25 degrees F.
Water Requirements: Low
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $95 - $125, 15g very large & overhead - $250-$350
Size shown: 15g (larger presently)
Comments: The plants we have were all grown from bubils collected about five years ago from a friend of the nursery. They've slowly grown over these years and are now starting to kick in. Some are making nice 15g plants. They seem indestructible. If you can't tell, there's a definite blue to the leaves.

FURCREA VARIEGATED
SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZE MATURE
SUPER RARE / HARD TO FIND

Country or area of origin: Uncertain
Mature height: Typically about five feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Uncertain, maybe upper twenties F.
Water Requirements: Low
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Very limited. Right now 10g
Regular Prices: 10G $175
Size shown: 10g
Comments: Over the years I've literally gotten in two or three of these plants. I can't say much except they are a dwarf Furcrea and quite rare. I've got ours in part sun. It is slowly growing.

GINGER

GINGER
BLUE GINGER
DICHORISANDRA THYRIFLORA
HARD TO FIND
YES, BLUE BLOSSOMS!
NOT AS COLD HARDY AS OTHER GINGERS - BUT SHORTER

Country or area of origin: all areas of the Americas including the U.S.
Mature height: Typically 4 to 6 feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light most areas
Cold Tolerance: Plants do not tolerate a freeze. They may come back from cold damage but foliage is burnt by 32 degrees or lower.
Water Requirements: Average although they can take extra water
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: Typically 5g, rarely larger - availability changes over time.
Regular Prices: 1 & 2g $75, 5g $125 7g $185
Size shown: 5g
Comments: This type of Ginger is known for it's royal blue blossoms with yellow centers. It is really striking to see a plant in blossom. With this type of Ginger you just have to be patient and give it good care. Over time, you will be rewarded if you don't get too cold.

photo by Dale Meyers math.hi.edu

GINGER
DWARF GINGER - VARIEGATED
DIFFICULT TO FIND, EVEN FOR US
SUPER ATTRACTIVE AND SHORT

Country or area of origin: Is manmade cultivar, no natural habitat
Mature height: Typically 2 feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light most areas
Cold Tolerance: Plants need temperatures no lower than 40 degrees F. Thus, they are only for the warmest of areas.
Water Requirements: Average - moderate
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: Not Available Recently
Regular Prices: 8 inch $85 when available
Size shown: 8 inch
Comments: This type of Ginger is quite cute and very small. They are rarely above your knee. The main problem is they just don't possess cold hardiness. So, winter protect them. We often have available larger 15 gallon.

GINGER
KAHILI GINGER
THE HAWAIAAN GINGER
A TYPE OF HEDYCHIUM GINGER
HEDYCHIUM GARNERIANUM
FRAGRANT UPRIGHT BLOSSOMS
GREAT PLANT FOR GARDEN

Country or area of origin: Assorted Asian countries including the Himalayas, India, Nepal and others
Mature height: Typically 4 to maximum 8 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun in near coastal areas, part day sun or filtered light inland
Cold Tolerance: Plants tolerate a freeze. Their probably low is in the mid to a bit lower 20's F.
Water Requirements: Average although they can take extra water
Rate of Growth: Medium to fast
Sizes Available: Typically 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $195
Size shown: 5g & 15g
Comments: This type of Ginger is one of my favorites because of the huge and super fragrant colorful blossoms - shown below. These also don't get overly large. Over time, these plants do sucker forming clumps of stems. Six feet height is the average mature height. Blossoms are short lived, but with age and lots of vertical stems, you'll have a fabulous show of color. Blossoms are yellow and red.

This and next 2 pictures 5g size

This and next photo 1t5g size

example of blossom

GINGER
PINSTRIPE GINGER
PROTOTYPE ALIPINA FORMOSANA
DWARF SPECIES NOT OVER FOUR FEET TALL
THIN WHITE STRIPES ON GREEN LEAVES
LIGHT RED AND WHITE UPRIGHT BLOSSOMS

Country or area of origin: Uncertain
Mature height: Three to four feet
Sun Requirements: Coastal sun or part sun - far inland filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Mid to upper twenties F.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Usually 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $195 (limited supply)
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments: At the nursery this is one of our favorites. This is because it's a dwarf species and that the leaves are very cool. They like our part day sun or filtered light although some say to give them full sun. Blossoms are upright as shown here. We run out of these all the time. So, get one if you want one.

5 gallon size

5 gallon size
photo c/o Southeastgarden Website

15 gallon size

SHELL GINGER
ALPINIA ZERUMBET
VARIAGATED FORM
GREEN LEAF FORM
HANGING, LONG LASTING RED AND WHITE FLOWERS
EASY TO GROW

Country or area of origin: East Asian
Mature height: Typically 6 to maximum 10 feet, generally taller than the Kahili Ginger. There are dwarf cultivars.
Sun Requirements: Full sun in near coastal areas, part day sun or filtered light inland
Cold Tolerance: Plants tolerate a freeze and do well into the mid-twenties F.
Water Requirements: Average although they can take extra water
Rate of Growth: Medium to fast
Sizes Available: Typically 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $195
Size shown: 5g & 15g
Comments: This type of Ginger has the green leaf form and the variegated leaf form as shown. These are quick growing plants that do sucker and form clumps. Flowers are long lasting whereas Kahili Ginger are short living. Blossoms hang downwards. Individual flowers look like small shells. They are not fragrant. These plants are an easy way to "create that Hawaii look".

This and next 5 pictures of the variegate form

blossom appearances

This and next picture green form

GERANIUM PLANTS
GENUS PELAGRONIUM
200 SPECIES OR CULTIVARS
BASIC RED AND HYBRIDS WITH OTHER COLORS
DURABLE PLANTS
TAKE FULL SUN

Country or area of origin: All over the world including Australia and South Africa
Mature height: Typically 2 to 3 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Cold tolerant to at least the upper teens F.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Typically 1g, some 5g
Regular Prices: 1g $25, rare forms cost more
Size shown: 5g
Comments: Durable sun color that even your mom used to grow. But, nowadays there's tons of cultivars with exciting blossoms. We try to bring these in from time to time.

GOLD MEDALLION TREE
CASSIA LEPTOPHYLLA
MEDIUM SIZED TREE
EASY TO GROW
TONS OF YELLOW FLOWERS!

Country or area of origin: Brazil
Mature height: Typically 15 - 20 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Cold tolerant to at about the mid to upper twenties F.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Typically 15g (limited supply)
Regular Prices: 15g $175
Size shown: 15g
Comments: Durable sun tropical tree if watered adequately and given fertilizer (see below). Lots of bright yellow flowers. Not overly large.

Totally neglected, unwatered tree near us
Well cared for by Pacifichorticulture website

HELICONIA PLANTS
HELICONIA SCHIEDIANA & LATISPATHA
SOMETIMES OTHER SPECIES
TROPICAL PLANTS THAT DON'T GET OVERLY TALL
GORGEOUS BLOSSOMS

Country or area of origin: Tropical Americas and a few Pacific Islands
Mature height: Although some Heliconia get up to 15 feet tall, H. schiediana is usually only 6 feet tall with H. latispatha getting a bit taller.
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Cold tolerant to mid-twenties F. Plants damaged from cold often come back the following spring from underground rhizomes.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium to fast
Sizes Available: Typically 5g and sometimes 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $195
Size shown: 5g & 15g
Comments: The key to growing Heliconia is to pick species that do well in your area. This means that they produce leaves but also flower. We've found the best species for cold to be H. schiediana. H. latispatha is also workable if you don't get too cold. These plants sucker over time to form clumps. They propagate with easy from divisions.   All the photos here are of H. schiediana. We do, on occasion, get about five other types of Heliconia at the nursery which you can grow here in So Cal.
15 gallon size

5 gallon size

Heliconia schiediana flower by TS at RPS

Heliconia latispatha in 5g size
Photo by Starwiz c/o Wikipedia - H. latispatha

HELICONIA PSITTACORUM
ANDROMEDA
A RARE DWARF HELICONIA WITH
ORANGE BLOSSOMS

This exciting new arrival to our nursery
offers gardeners a chance to have a
Heliconia that doesn't get to tall or spread
too much. Plant heights are typically 3 to
4 feet with blossoms extended above for a
foot to 18 inches.l Blossoms are orange
with yellow hints. It tolerates coastal sun
or part sun. It does need some sun to
blossom. Cold tolerance so far is unknown
but we suspect it'll take down to the
upper 30's F.

Regular price 2 or 3 gallon $95

HAWORTHIA ZEBRINA
HAWWORTHIA LIMIFOLIA
CUTE MINIATURE SUCCULENT
ZEBRA STRIPING

Country or area of origin: Africa
Mature height: I've been told they shouldn't get over a foot or two tall - always smaller
Sun Requirements: Full sun but can tolerate part sun
Cold Tolerance: Cold tolerant uncertain but probably into the mid-twenties F. or lower
Water Requirements: Low, keep minimally damp during cold season
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: Typically 8 inch pot as shown
Regular Prices: 8 inch $45
Size shown: 8 inch
Comments: I'm showing this small succulent because it has cool zebra striping on the leaves. I think it'd make a nice small plant for next to a walkway for sun or part sun. Note how the blossoms shoot way above the plant.

Haworthia zebrina
Haworthia zebrina

Haworthia zebrina
Haworthia limifolia
Haworthia limifolia

Haworthia limifolia
Haworthia limifolia in blossom

HIBISCUS PLANTS
BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS
SUBJECT TO WHITE FLY

We have resumed production of rare varieties. This includes many with pink, red, orange and yellow blossoms. One gallon are $35. 5g $95 Note most want sun and do not tolerate a hard freeze. Inquire about species in stock.

ICE CREAM BEAN TREE
INGE EDULIS
SOUTH AMERICAN TROPICAL TREE
PULP TASTES LIKE VANILLA ICE CREAM

Country or area of origin: Various countries in South America
Mature height: Up to 75 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Cold tolerant somewhere below a freeze but not into the low 20's.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Typically 1g or 5g - sometimes out of stock
Regular Prices: 1g $45g, 5g $95
Size shown: 5g
Comments: I'm mentioning this tree here because it is an attractive tree and the pulp inside the seed pod tastes like vanilla ice cream. Availability of this species is sporadic.

Photo by Botanics.jp Website

JACARANDA MIMOSIFOLIA
PURPLE-BLUE BLOSSOMS
IN SAN DIEGO, BLOOM IN MAY
GREAT GARDEN TREE OR FOR STREET PARKWAYS
LONG BLOOMING SEASON

Country or area of origin: Bolivia & Argentina
Mature height: Thirty feet or more
Sun Requirements: Full sun.
Cold Tolerance: Temperatures down to mid-twenties F.
Water Requirements: Light to Moderate
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: On request
Regular Prices: On request
Size shown: Garden and street-side plantings
Comments: This colorful flowering tree is very popular in Southern California. Unless it is a cool year, they always bloom in May here. The blue blossoms last for about a month. The streets are gorgeous with them. On request, I can obtain plants for customers and quote a price at that time.

JASMINE SPECIES
WHITE JAMINE ASIATICUM
TRACHELOSPERMUM ASIATICUM
PINK GINGER
JASMINUM POLYANTHUM
FRAGRANT TROPICAL VINES
WHITE AND PINK VARIETIES

Country or area of origin: White: Korea and Japan Pink: China and Myanmar (Burma)
Mature height: Climbing vine, so depends on structure/tree holding it up. Can go up 20 feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun.
Cold Tolerance: Temperatures to 25 degrees F. and possibly lower
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Fast
Sizes Available: 5g
Regular Prices: 5g $85
Size shown: 5g, two species
Comments: Both of these species of Jasmine are fragrant. One is white, the other pink. I can't show pictures of the blossoms of the pink as they bloom in early spring. Both are climbers and very nice.

This and next three pictures white species

This and next e pictures of the Pink Jasmine

JASMINE SPECIES
WHITE FRAGRANT BLOSSOMS IN CLUSTERS
ALSO LARGE WHITE FLOWERS WITH ROSE COLORED CENTER
TWO DIFFERENT UNUSUAL TYPES

Country or area of origin: Australia
Mature height: Climbing vine, so depends on structure/tree holding it up
Sun Requirements: Full sun.
Cold Tolerance: Temperatures possibly down to 20 degrees F.
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Fast
Sizes Available: 5g
Regular Prices: 5g $85
Size shown: 5g, two species
Comments: Here I am showing two different types of climbing Jasmine. The first one has smaller blossoms, but they are super fragrant. The second one has minimal fragrance with big white flowers with red centers. Sometimes this latter type has a pink color to the petals. Both are quick growing and take full sun. We occasionally have a third type (not shown here) that has fragrant, smaller pink blossoms.

White Jasmine, this and next two pictures

PANDOREA JASMINOIDES "ROSEA" - The last
picture and the next two pictures

Photo by Gopixpics.com Website

KALANCHOEE
ASSORTED TYPES - SMALL PLANTS
MANY COLORS OF THE RAINBOW
120 TYPES
THICK GREEN LEAVES

Country or area of origin: Americas, Africa and Madagascar
Mature height: Most plants like those shown here get to about 2 feet tall. But, in the wild, some types can get to 15 feet.
Sun Requirements: Filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Not below a freeze
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g and 2g
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 2g $55
Size shown: 2g, several types
Comments: These colorful little gems come in all colors of the rainbow. They do need careful care and are good for instant, low profile color.

KALANCHOE BAHARENSIS
THE VELVET ELEPHANT EAR PLANT
EXAMPLE OF A LARGER KALANCHOE
NATIVE TO MADAGASCAR
SORT OF BIZARRE APPEARING

Country or area of origin: Americas, Africa and Madagascar
Mature height: Typically six to ten feet, maybe more
Sun Requirements: Full or partial sun
Cold Tolerance: Perhaps upper 20's F.
Water Requirements: Light - let it dry out between waterings
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 5g
Regular Prices: 5g $85
Size shown: 5g
Comments: Different looking gray colored plant with fuzzy leaves and a vertical stem. Overwater, even in the growing season, can kill them. This is a zerophytic species.

LADY PALM
YES, THIS IS A PALM - RHAPIS
BUT, MANY PEOPLE CONSIDER IT A COMPANION PLANT
GREEN VARIETIES AND
VARIEGATED ZUIKONISHIKI

Country or area of origin: Asia, China, Laos, Thailand and Laos
Mature height: Variable, three to twenty feet depending on species.
Sun Requirements: Filtered light on most types
Cold Tolerance: Low 20's F. on most. Some take into the upper teens.
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 5g, 15g, 25g
Regular Prices: Inquire
Size shown: 5g & 15g
Comments: I've included a desirable type of palm here because so many consider the Lady Palm to be a companion or house plant. I've shown a rare Japanese variegated Rhapis, Rhapis multifida, excela and the tall Rhapis humilus. All can be easily grown inside or outside in most gardens in this area.

Variegated R. excelsa var. nuikonishiki

Rhapis multifida

Rhapis excelsa
Rhapis humilus by Frank Macdonough LAA

LYCHNIS CORONARIA
LOW PROFILE, SUN LOVING
WATER CONSERVING SUCCULENT
BRIGHT PURPLE SUMMER FLOWERS
BLUE FOLIAGE

Country or area of origin: Southeastern Europe
Mature height: Two feet not counting flowers
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Low 20's F. or possibly colder
Water Requirements: Low to medium. Not super xerophytic
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 1g
Regular Prices: 1g $35
Size shown: 1g
Comments: I like this plant for two reasons. First, it has thick and wide blue colored leaves that are very fleshy. Secondly, the flowers are a very impressive purple color. They are an inch wide. Note:   After publishing this site, a reader thought perhaps this is a different species of plant. We are investigating it.

photo by Plants-Shopping.FR website



LIGULARIA TUSSILANGINEA
LILY-LIKE, FLAT GREEN LEAVES
YELLOW BLOSSOMS IN FALL
TAKES SUN - LIKES WATER
SOMETIMES CALLED THE GREEN LEOPARD PLANT

Country or area of origin: Japan
Mature height: Two feet tall not counting flowers
Sun Requirements: Full sun along the coast, part sun or filtered light. Far inland one would put in filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Mid-20's F. or possibly colder
Water Requirements: Medium. If this plant doesn't get enough water, it will become limp and lay down on the ground. If you note this soon enough, just water it and it bounces back by morning. For this reason I call it a "water indicator plant" for the garden. It's the first plant to show the garden is too dry.
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g and 5g
Regular Prices: 1g $45, 2g $75, 5g $95
Size shown: 1g & 5g
Comments: As mentioned above, it's an interesting plant indicating moisture in the garden. Leaves get to about ten inches across and are a dark shiny green. Flowers are Daisy-like and yellow. These are reliable, easy to grow and easy to propagate. There are other types of Ligularia and we often have some of them. From time to time we also offer other types like the ruffled leaf and also a variety with yellow polka dot spots.

Ligularia in flower by R.T.
Ligulariaaa auburn.edu website

Different species with ruffled leaf
Rare ruffled leaf form at nursery

LILY TURF PLANT
LIRIOPE SPECIES
PURPLE FLOWERS
DWARF FOLIAGE PLANT

Country or area of origin: Japan, Taiwan and China
Mature height: Two feet tall not counting flowers
Sun Requirements: Full sun along the coast, part sun or filtered light. Far inland one would put in filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Upper teens F.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 5g
Regular Prices: 5g $55
Size shown: 5g
Comments: This is a dwarf and flowering shrub that possesses good cold tolerance, takes full sun, doesn't get over about two feet tall (foliage) and has attractive purple blossoms. I do not have a species name for you but it is in the genus Liriope. These plants are native to Japan, Taiwan and China. They are sturdy, easy to grow and do not run. Leaves are grass-like. They form easy to care for small clumps. Blossoms appear in August and September.


photo c/o ozbreed.com.au website

MADAGASCAR PALM
PACHYPODIUM LAMERI
SPINY TRUNK
DON'T OVERWATER WHEN COLD!
NEVER TOO TALL
NOT A PALM AT ALL!

Country or area of origin: Madagascar
Mature height: In a container, typically not over ten feet. In the ground, up to twenty feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun in all localities. Prolonged growth in shade may kill them. In a home, put next to a very bright window.
Cold Tolerance: Lower limit mid-thirties. Below a freeze will probably kill this species. Remember, when cold, do not water them.
Water Requirements: Low
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 5g, sometimes smaller - availability variable
Regular Prices: 5g with some trunk, $95 (when available)
Size shown: 5g
Comments: This spiny trunk succulent has green foliage that is free of spines. They make white flowers when mature. They are an interesting and sought after container plant for a sunny patio. Occasionally the trunk will branch or get swollen in areas. They can also sucker. They do not like to be watered when cold and never over-water. This can be a special order item.

Pachypodium lameri Wikipedia

MERYTA BALANSAE
A SEMI-DWARF TROPICAL TREE
SUPER RARE NEW INTRODUCTION
NATIVE TO NEW CALEDONIA
MALE AND FEMALE FLOWERS

Country or area of origin: New Caledonia
Mature height: Eight to ten feet
Sun Requirements: On the coast, part sun or perhaps more. Usually I recommend filtered light. Far inland filtered light only.
Cold Tolerance: Uncertain but probably low 30's F. Try to protect from a freeze.
Water Requirements: Medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Sporadic availability. When we have them, 5g and 15g.
Regular Prices: sold out presently - on request
Size shown: 15g in flower
Comments: This is a dioecious plant, so you need males and females to set seeds. It has long, wide green leaves that resemble an Anthurium plant. The trunk is narrow. Pictures here show both sexes. This is a very cool, rare and unusual companion plant for the garden. We get this rare species in from time to time but availability is sparse.

Male blossom

female blossom
Habitat pic by Endemea NC Website
photo c/o TS at RPS

THE MEXICAN GRASS PLANT
DASYLIRION LONGISSIMUM
DASYLIRION WHEELERI
MEDIUM SIZED UNUSUAL SUN PLANT
DROUGHT TOLERANT
LONG LEAVES LIKE KNITTING NEEDLES

Country or area of origin: D. longissimum is from Mexico. D. wheeleri is from Mexico and also certain areas of the SW United States.
Mature height: Typical garden height when old is six to seven feet, ground to top of the leaves. In habitat, one can find six feet of trunk putting the plant to an overall height of ten feet or a bit more.
Sun Requirements: Full sun in almost all localities.
Cold Tolerance: Upper teens F.
Water Requirements: Low
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 5g & 15g. Sometimes 25g.
Regular Prices: 5g $85, large and old 15g $200-$250, 25g on request
Size shown: 5g & 15g
Comments: This interesting drought tolerant plant is very drought tolerant and 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. The last row of pictures is of a different D. wheeleri. This species is more blue, larger, has flat leaves that have small spines. It is much more rare and hard to find.

This and most plants shown are older 15g size
Of note, the first three rows of photos are of Dasylirion longissimum

This and next picture are 5 gallon size

This row of pictures is of D. wheeleri



MONDO GRASS
AKA "MONKEY GRASS"
THREE DIFFERENT TYPES OFFERED
BLACK, SILVER (VARIEGATED) AND GREEN
ALL DWARF GROUND COVERS

Country or area of origin: Asia
Mature height: Dwarf height usually not over 18 inches and often less.
Sun Requirements: Full sun in almost all localities.
Cold Tolerance: Upper teens F.
Water Requirements: Low
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 1g.
Regular Prices: 1g $40
Size shown: 1g
Comments:   These dwarf and stem-less grasses come from Asia. They are members of the Ophiopogon genus. The primary reason people seek them out is that they are a very easy to use ground cover. They can be used on a garden perimeter, next to a walk way, between stepping stones or on top of a pot's soil where another plant is growing. They are never over a foot tall. We are lucky enough to offer three different types: green, white/silver and black. The black form is the slowest growing. They do eventually fill in an area but don't run.

This and next 2 pictures green variety

Black Mondo grass

This and next 2 pictures the silver Mondo

Photo of green Mondo Grass from Houzz.com website

MOTHER IN LAW'S TONGUE
SANSEVERIA SPECIES
OVER 70 KNOWN SPECIES
LOW PROFILE - WATER CONSERVING
OVER TIME, ASSORTMENT OF AVAILABILITY

Country or area of origin: Africa, Madagascar and southern Asia
Mature height: For genus, assortment of mature heights. But, for most, figure under three feet tall.
Sun Requirements: Right on the coast, possibly full sun. But, figure strong filtered light to be best.
Cold Tolerance: Lower 20's F. on an average. Some species more tender.
Water Requirements: Low once established
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: Assorted sizes
Regular Prices: For most species, these tend to be affordable and are easy to ship.
Size shown: Assorted
Comments:  Sanseveria are a durable smaller dwarf type of plant that have thick leaves and are largely unarmed. They grow in a rosette with stiff, upright leaves. They tolerate sun or partial sun and are fairly cold hardy. I am showing several species. I have a friend who only grows these plants so I may be able to get any species you want. These are easy to ship.


Sanseveria blossom at nursery

MILE TULIP TREE
MARKHAMIA LUTEA
LARGE YELLOW/RED BLOSSOMS
MEDIUM SIZED TO 15 FEET
NOT THAT HARD TO GROW HERE

Country or area of origin: Eastern Africa
Mature height: About 15 feet
Sun Requirements: Sun
Cold Tolerance: Mid-20's F.
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Limited: Larger 25g only right now
Regular Prices: 25g $275
Size shown: Assorted
Comments:  This fairly fast growing plant has rather huge flowers that are bright yellow with red throats. I've had one in my garden for years. It's been an easy grow.

photo by Etsy.com website

ORCHID
EPIDENDRON ORCHID
ORANGE BLOSSOM
REEDSTEM TYPE TERESTRIAL ORCHID

Country or area of origin: The Americas
Mature height: Domestically, typically not over three to four feet.
Sun Requirements: Full sun along the coast but do fine in filtered light as well.
Cold Tolerance: Mid to upper twenties F.
Water Requirements: Moderate - like humidity
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 5g.
Regular Prices: 1 gallon $55 - $65, 5g $100 - $135 - $150
Size shown: 5g
Comments:   The family of Epidendron Orchids are loaded with species/varieties of lots of different colors. These include pink, red, white and yellow. But, one of the most vibrant is the orange. This is the color we usually have in stock. These plants have tons of reed-like stems, most of which will blossom this summer. Leaves are thick and small and plants can be divided in the future to easily add to other areas of the garden. You can plant these right in the soil. They are cold tolerant into the mid-twenties F.

ORCHIDS
DIFFERENT TYPES
PHALAENOPSIS
CATLEYA
VANDA
OTHERS
OTHERS
FUN TO GROW EPIPHYTICALLY IN TREES
ASSORTMENT OF COLORS

Country or area of origin: The Americas, Asia, Africa, Madagascar and others
Mature height: Grow usually epiphytically in trees so tend to be smaller, usually under several feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light or sun depending on species
Cold Tolerance: Often above a freeze but there are cold hardy orchids
Water Requirements: Light ot moderate
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 1g, sometimes 2 or 5g.
Regular Prices: Variable, depending on size/species. Figure they start at about $35 - $45 each, more for larger plants.
Size shown: 1-2g
Comments:   There are over 28,000 species of orchids and the list is continually changing. They come from all parts of the world. These plants can be grown in a pot, on a table as a "collection". But, consider mounting them in a tree. It is easy and you'll get fabulous results if you follow basic and simple culture. Shown here are a few types we have for sale or can get for you.

photo by AmericanGardening website



OX TONGUE PLANT
GASTERIA SUCCULENT
BIG ORANGE BRANCHING FLOWERS IN SHADE

Country or area of origin: South Africa
Mature height: Plant shown under 3 feet. There are lots of different Gasteria species.
Sun Requirements: Part sun or filtered light - and they give super blossoms in filtered light!0part Full sun along the coast but do fine in filtered l
Cold Tolerance: Probably mid-twenties F.
Water Requirements: Light
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 8 inch
Regular Prices: 8 inch $55, large
Size shown: 8 inch
Comments:  I began offering this succulent because it can produce large, branching flowers in shady conditions. The blossoms are a red-orange in color. This is a type of Gasteria known as Ox Tongue. The flowers go up two feet above the plants and branch. The leaves are thick and have striped silver on green variegation as shown. They can take some sun if needed.

PANAMA HAT PALM
CARLUDOVICA PALMATE
OTHER CARLUDOVICA
MARGINAL IN OUR AREA
NOT REALLY A PALM

Country or area of origin: Central America to South America
Mature height: About six feet with palmate leaves. But, doesn't form a woody trunk.
Sun Requirements: Filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Probably not below a freeze
Water Requirements: Moderate to heavy
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: Variable availability
Regular Prices: call for availability and price - often not available
Size shown: 15g
Comments:  I am showing a species that is a Cardulovia, but not the classic "Panama Hat Plant". But, it's very similar. We've sold out of the Panama Hats. On the one shown, we've been able to keep it alive in the greenhouse for years and it has seen a freeze. But, these plants are marginal at best. I mention them here because people ask about them.

PHILODENDRON

PHILODENDRON CANNIFOLIUM
AKA PHILODENDRON MARTIANUM
BIG FLESHY, WIDE LEAVES
THICK LEAF STEMS
GREAT LUSH PLANT FOR GARDEN

Country or area of origin: Southern Mexico
Mature height: To six feet from the ground
Sun Requirements: Filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Mid-twenties F.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 5g, 7g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g $95, 7g $150, 15g $200+ Note we are sold out currently
Size shown: 5g, 7g and 15g
Comments:  This is a very desirable and super tropical, rain forests appearing companion plant that never gets overhead and has fleshy, thick leaves with fat leaf stems. It's a rare species you'll have trouble finding. It prefers filtered light but can take a little sun. Availability can change - presently sold out of this species.

This and next two pictures of 5g size

This and next two pictures larger 7g and 15g size

PHILODENDRON
MONSTERA DELICIOSA
"SPLIT LEAF PHILODENDRON"
DEFINITELY A CLIMBER

Country or area of origin: Southern Mexico
Mature height: Plant height depends on what it's growing on. Plants have been recorder going up a hundred feet into overhead canopy.
Sun Requirements: Partial sun or filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Mid-twenties F. or lower
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g and 5g
Regular Prices: 1g $35, 5g $85 or more(large)
Size shown: 5g
Comments:  Monstera deliciosa is a climbing tropical plant native to areas from southern Mexico down through Latin America. It climbs up tree trunks and can get up to 100 feet into the canopy. It has green leaves with horizontal splits/openings. The trunks are about an inch thick. Leaves can be much larger than shown here when mature. It is super easy to grow. Just plant it next to almost anything.

1g size

5g size

PHILODENDRON
PHILODENDRON RED CONGO
AKA "CONGO ROJO"
ATTRACTIVE COMPANION PLANT DARK LEAVES, RED STEMS/BACKS OF LEAVES

Country or area of origin: Hybrid cultivar, o native origin
Mature height: Three to five feet
Sun Requirements: Filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Down to a freeze
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 6 inch, 8 inch and 7g
Regular Prices: 6 inch $45, 3 galon $85 - $95, sometimes larger sizes available When we have large specimens, typically $150
Size shown: 6 inch and 3 gallon and at end 15g
Comments:  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.

8 inch size
This and next 2 pictures 8 inch size

This and next picture 6 inch size

Red backs to leaves
Red leaf stems

7 gallon plant

PHILODENDRON
PHILODENDRON SELLEUM
LARGE PHILODENDRON WITH SPLIT LEAVES
PLANT IN THE GROUND
OR, LET IT CLIMB UP A TRUNK
EASY TO GROW AND HARDY

Country or area of origin: Brazil
Mature height: Six to ten feet from ground
Sun Requirements: Partial sun or filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: 210 to 25 degrees F.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: 5g & 15g (large)
Regular Prices: 5g $85, 15g, $195
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments:  Philodendron selleum for the enthusiast can be grown in two ways: in the garden, in the ground - or next to a tree trunk allowing this plant to slowly climb up the trunk. Leaves are large. They are prominently divided. Trunks are four to five inches with large roots for attachment. Of note, this climbing species will not hurt the tree supporting it. Given good care, this species add an instant tropical look to the garden.

Planted in the ground
photo by travel.mongabay website

PHILODENDRON
PHILODENDRON "XANADU"
SMALL LEAF CULTIVAR
POPULAR BECAUSE OF SMALL SIZE
MASS PRODUCED SO DESIGNERS KNOW & CALL FOR IT
READ BELOW HOW IT CAME ABOUT

Country or area of origin: Brazil - But plants come from one variant single sprouting plant from a group of another species. Reportedly the world's supply came from this one different seedling.
Mature height: Three feet tall - wider than tall
Sun Requirements: Most areas filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: 25 degrees F.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: 5g & 15g (large)
Regular Prices: 5g -$85 15g $185 (large)
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments:  Philodendron xanadu is one of the most called for Philodendron by landscape architects and designers. This is because it has been produced in volume by tissue culture labs and everyone knows it. It does have its merits even though it is nothing rare. It has a small size and is easy to grow. It takes up little room and is fairly cold hardy.   We typically have 3/5 g size and 15g size available, although recently I've heard availability is markedly diminishing.

Philodendron xanadu by subtropical.co.nz

PHILODENDRON
OTHER RARE AND EXOTIC SPECIES
ALL SUPER DIFFERNT AND HARD TO FIND
MANY CRAZY WILD LOOKING
HUGE ASSORTMENT TO VIEW

Country or area of origin: Various localities, mostly New World.
Mature height: Variable, some terrestrial and many climbers which go way up a tree in habitat. Note that most here are un-named species from habitat. There are a few cultivars shown.
Sun Requirements: Most areas filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Variable. Figure protect from a freeze on many of these.
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: various sizes
Regular Prices: Various
Size shown: Various
Comments:  What I'm showing here are pictures of unusual species of Philodendron that we've had over the past few years. Some could have sold out, but we have most. The real colorful ones are usually manmade cultivars and tend not to be real cold hardy. Many of these will climb up trunks. Most of these will be near impossible for you to find at nurseries. I apologize that I didn't name each species but many have no species name and are from the wild. Contact us any particular ones you like.

PLUMERIA PLANTS
AKA FRANGIPANI
ASSORTMENT OF SIZES AND FLOWER COLORS
SUMMER BLOOMERS
5G AND 15G AVAILABLE

Country or area of origin: Mexico south through Central America, the Caribbean and South America
Mature height: Form trees up to 20 feet or more
Sun Requirements: Sun in most areas
Cold Tolerance: Above a freeze
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Slow to medium
Sizes Available: 5g & 15g (large)
Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $95, 15g, $195 and up - when available
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments:  Plumeria are grown throughout the world. The main issue is winter cold. They can usually recover from freeze damage the next year. But, significant cold kills them. There are probably a hundred different hybrids made to show off an assortment of color combinations. We are not a nursery doing such work. But, we get in very nice, outdoor grown and well rooted plants with pink, red, yellow, and other colors. Remember, these are slow to grow and never cheap plants. Plants with branches are difficult to ship.

5G size

|
5g and 15g size by side

PONY TAIL PALM
AKA ELEPHANT FOOT PALM
BECAURNIA RECURVATA
SUPER FAT BASE - STRAP LEAVES
RUGGED AND NEAR INDESTRUCTIBLE

Country or area of origin: Mexico
Mature height: I've seen plant to 20 feet but normal domestically is under ten feet in many decades.
Sun Requirements: Sun.
Cold Tolerance: Upper teens F.
Water Requirements: Light to average
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 5g & 15g, rarely 20g
Regular Prices: 5g $85, 15g, $195 and up - larger on requests
Size shown: 5g and 15g
Comments:  This plants is actually not a palm at all. But, that's what people think. Native to Mexico, this plant typically gets ten to fifteen feet tall with a peculiar, expanded caudex at the base and a crown of strap like leaves. These emerge upward and than hang down in a fountain fashion. As shown here, sometimes new leaves show a red tint. The most amazing thing about this species is the bizarre forms it can take on. It can have multiple heads of leaves, multiple emerging trunks from the caudex base and the size of the base can get massive. I've seen photos of small cars parked on top of the base of this species.

5g size
5g size

5g size
15g size

15 gallon size

Base of older 20g size
this and last picture larger 20g size

PURPLE HEART
TRADESCANTIA PALLIDA PURPUREA
A GREAT PURPLE GROUND COVER
AND HAS CUTE FLOWERS

Country or area of origin: North and South America including parts of the Caribbean
Mature height: Figure 12 to 18 inches
Sun Requirements: Sun or part sun, depending on area
Cold Tolerance: At least into the mid-twenties F. - Possibly lower
Water Requirements: average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: 1g
Regular Prices: 1g $35
Size shown: 1g
Comments:  Similar to a "Wander Jew" plant, this different ground cover adds a very nice purple color to the garden. It's very low profile and fairly easy to grow. We offer affordable 1g plants.

Photo by Floridata website

RANDOM ASSORTED TROPICAL PLANTS
ONE GALL/SIX INCH POT SIZE
LOTS TO CHOOSE FROM

Country or area of origin: Various locations
Mature height: Various
Sun Requirements: Typically filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Figure on most above a freeze
Water Requirements: Average
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Smaller pots
Regular Prices: Assorted prices
Size shown: Smaller sizes
Comments:  We continually get in odd and ends type of interesting tropical plants. These are not flowering plants but rather green, understory companion type plants. In our area, almost everyone can grow these. I'd anticipate none will take direct hot and full sun. Filtered light would be better. If you're looking for something different to add to the garden, these might fit the bill. None are expensive.

SAGO PALM
CYCAS REVOLUTA
COMMON BUT AFFORDABLE
PLANTS OF ALL SIZES AVAILABLE

Country or area of origin: Southern Japan including the Ryukyu Islands.
Mature height: Century old plants can fork above the ground and get over 15 feet. This is very unusual to see. Normally in a few decades one gets a plant with three to five feet of trunk.
Sun Requirements: Full or part sun along the coast. In desrt areas, filtered light best as summer's heat and sun will burn the leaves.
Cold Tolerance: Upper teens F. or a bit colder
Water Requirements: Low once established
Rate of Growth: Very slow
Sizes Available: Assorted sizes
Regular Prices: Variable but figure 5g $125+, 15g $200 to $500 and larger on request
Size shown: Assorted as noted
Comments:  The Sago Palm, Cycas revoluta, is the most common landscape cycad in the world. It doesn't thrill enthusiasts or collectors but is just perfect for the casual gardener. In most areas they like sun, are very cold hardy and reliable. Do give them adequate room as they grow over time.

This and next two pictures 7g size

5 gallon size
15 gallon size

25g size
48 inch boxed plant, old



SCREW PINE
PANDANUS UTILUS
BIZARRE TREE WITH SPIRALING LEAVES
SHINY SNAKESKIN TRUNK
STILT ROOT FORMATION

Country or area of origin: Native to Madagascar, the Mauritius Islands and some surrounding areas.
Mature height: Average domestic or garden height estimated at ten to twenty feet. They can get taller.
Sun Requirements: Full or part sun along the coast. I suspect part day sun far inland.
Cold Tolerance: Mid-twenties F.
Water Requirements: Low to medium
Rate of Growth: Medium
Sizes Available: Currently sold out
Regular Prices: 5g $125 (six years old)
Size shown: 5g
Comments:  Pandanus utilus is called the Screw Pine but is not a pine at all. It's actually a monocot (similar to palms). It gets it's name by the arrangement of leaves which come off the trunk in spiraling fashion, always the same direction. Thus, the leaves spin off at different angles in a swirl. Leaves are rather thin and have spines along the margins. The trunk on this species is quite amazing. It forms aerial roots (sausage like) that come to the ground for stability. Trunks fork and form multiple heads of leaves. Trunks can also be quite smooth, almost snakeskin-like. It has large fruit clusters that are bigger than grenades. Leaf color is green with a sheen of blue. Availability is sparse and unpredictable.

SPANISH MOSS
TILLANDSIA USNEOIDES
HANGS DOWN FROM TREE LIMBS
CAN BE GROWN IN SOUTHERN CA
AVAILABLE FROM OUR NURSERY

Country or area of origin: It is known to grow naturally in Maryland, throughout the southwest United States, Central and South America and has become naturalized in Australia.
Mature height: This is a hanging species and plants will hang down up to about six feet from a limb.
Sun Requirements: Full or part sun
Cold Tolerance: Estimate low twenties F.
Water Requirements: Low
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: by the clump, either mounted of free hanging
Regular Prices: Clump $45, mounted $55+ - We can offer oversized clumps
Size shown: Clumps. Also shown are extra large clumps
Comments:  I am including here a type of epiphytic Bromeliad that has a vast distribution throughout the world. It is a wispy flowering species that hangs on branches, phone lines or posts. Over time the gray colored clumps get wider and longer. If you want to grow it in your garden, you just throw it over something and let it hang in the air. Or, attach it to a palm trunk. Water it from time to time and occasionally spray it with a liquid fertilizer.

SPIDER LILY
HYMENOCALLIS
LARGE WHITE FLOWERS
NEVER SUPER TALL
SUMMER BLOOMERS

Country or area of origin: South-East U.S.
Mature height: 2 to 3 feet
Sun Requirements: Sun or part sun
Cold Tolerance: Mid 20's F.
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Moderate
Sizes Available: 5g as shown
Regular Prices: 5g $85
Size shown: 5g
Comments:  TI like these because they don't just put up one or two flowers. They continue blossoming for a while with brilliant white blossoms, many times clusters of flowers. Easy to grow.

STAGHORN FERN
PLATYCERIUM BIFURCATA
EPIPHYTIC FERN THAT LIVES IN TREES
ANTLER TYPE LEAVES
MOUNTED PLANTS AVAILABLE

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
Regular Prices: Wood mounted $95 - $300+ - depending on size
Size shown: Mounted on wood
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. Or, you can remove the wood and apply them right on a trunk as shown below. Give them part sun. Spray them about ever week or two with water and fertilize them every few months with liquid fertilizer. They are reliable performers.

STAR BROMELIAD
CRYPTHANTHUS BROMELIADS
EARTH STAR BROMELIAD
SMALL, CUTE & COLORFUL
LOTS OF PINK AND RED!

Country or area of origin: Eastern Brazil
Mature height: Perhaps a foot tall with a width of six inches to three feet. These are flat plants with little vertical height.
Sun Requirements: Part sun or filtered light
Cold Tolerance: Estimate mid-20's F.
Water Requirements: Low
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: In small pots as shown
Regular Prices: Typically $35 as shown, larger are more
Size shown: Small pots
Comments:  These smaller Bromeliads are known for the fact that they are a terrestrial type of Bromliad and do well planted right into the ground. Contrast this to the epiphytic types that live on branches of trees above your head. Small roots anchor these plants into the ground and do little in terms of absorbing nutrition. A mature plant is usually no bigger than a dinner plate. They take strong filtered light or a bit of sun. These plants are in 4 inch pots. We only occasionally have them for sale. They are a fairly rare Bromeliad to find. We have two or three species. All have pink and red with some brown colors. Also, mail order is a piece of cake.

STICKS OF FIRE
EUPHORBIA TIRUCALLI
SEMI-DWARF CLUMPS
BRIGHT RED SPRING TO SUMMER

Country or area of origin: Africa and Middle East
Mature height: Domestically, most plants don't get over six feet
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Cold Tolerance: Estimate mid-20's F.
Water Requirements: Low
Rate of Growth: Slow
Sizes Available: 5g pots
Regular Prices: 5g $55
Size shown: 5g
Comments:  Sticks of Fire is a type of Euphorbia that doesn't get too tall but can make a large bush. In bright sun, leaves can take on a very red color. It survives in harsh climates and is drought resistant. Plants shown here are in 5g pots and, in bright sun, will turn red over time. It does exude a white, toxic sap that should not make contact with the eyes. Leaves are tubular and narrow. Color can be impressive.

SUCCULENTS
MANY TYPES AND SPECIES

As I'm showing you so many types of succulents here, I cannot comment on culture or origin of each. Rather, I just want to remind you that many succulents work nicely in combination with tropical plants. And, many shown here remain small plants.

TI PLANTS
THE "HAWAIIAN TI PLANT"
DWARF OR SEIM-DWARF COLOR
RED, PINK, GREEN, PASTELS AND BLACK
QUICK COLOR FOR FILTERED LIGHT
SOME ACCLIMATE TO SUN

Country or area of origin: Southeastern Asia, Australia, PNG, Polynesia
Mature height: This type of tropical Ti plants are rarely over six to eight feet tall.
Sun Requirements: Along the coast, it's best to grow them in a bit of sun or filtered light. Over time they can be acclimated to full sun. In inland areas, one must grow them in filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Temperatures above a freeze are idea although a few varieties can take into the upper 20's F.
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Moderate growing
Sizes Available: 3 gallon, squat 15g - Sometimes we have 2 or 5g plants.
Regular Prices: 3 and 5 gallon, rarely larger, regular price $65 - $95, larger plants more.
Size shown: 5g and rarely large 15g
Comments: These colorful Ti's are propagated in tropical areas and shipped to California. Most come from HI and FL. People like them because they add great color to the garden. Shown here are some nice cultivars we've had in the past few years. Availability is changing every month. We've found the darker the colors, the easier they are to grow.

TRAVELER PALM
RAVANALA MADAGASCARENSIS
SUPER POPULAR AND SOUGHT AFTER
ALL LEAVES IN ONE PLANE
WON'T TAKE A FREEZE

Country or area of origin: Madagascar
Mature height: Mature trees in habitat can get thirty to forty feet. Most domestic plants are 20 feet or less in California.
Sun Requirements: Along the coast, it's best to grow them in full sun. Far inland areas would grow in a few hours sun or filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Temperatures below a freeze will kill these plants.
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Fairly quick growing.
Sizes Available: 10g and 25g shown. Only plants available right now are 2 gallon which are $75 (when available) and 5g $125-$150.
Regular Prices: on request, but larger plants are $250-$450, occasionally 12 feet tall, (not shown)
Size shown: 10g and 25g.
Comments: This is a very tropical species that one can grow if you don't freeze. Along the coast, full sun is best for long term growth. Strong winds can tear leaves. Note, all the leaves are in one plane - this is called a "distichous" plant.

25g size
25g size, about fourteen feet tall

squat 10g size, about 8 feet tall

photo in habitat, Madagascar by JS
Plant being grown in Orange County, CA
photo from Wikipedia

SCHEFFLERA ARBORICOLA & ACTINOPHYLLA
AKA TUPIDANTHUS
AND A DWARF FORM
CAN GET BIG!
EASY TO GROW

Country or area of origin: Australia and New Guinea
Mature height: Easily to twenty feet, can get to forty feet
Sun Requirements: Along the coast, it's best to grow them in full sun. Far inland areas would grow in a few hours sun or filtered light.
Cold Tolerance: Temperatures into the mid-twenties F. but not for severe cold
Water Requirements: Moderate
Rate of Growth: Fairly quick growing.
Sizes Available: 5g and 15g
Regular Prices: 5g (large) $95, 15g (large) $250+
Can obtain limited number of very large 25g
Size shown: 5g
Comments: There are several species of Schefflera and they, for the most part, look quite similar. The dwarf form has much smaller leaves and doesn't get much over ten feet tall. They are quick. If you get the large form, you'll find pruning is needed to keep it under control.

This and next three photos are the regular form

This and next photo are the dwarf form

YUCCA ROSTRATA
SUPER BLUE FOLIAGE
SEMI-DWARF SUN PLANT
TOLERATES VERY COLD WEATHER

Country or area of origin: Southwestern U.S. down into Mexico
Mature height: Mature trees in decades 12 to 16 feet and 6 to 8 feet wide
Sun Requirements: Full sun all areas
Cold Tolerance: Temperatures down to almost zero degrees F..
Water Requirements: Low - xerophytic
Rate of Growth: Slow.
Sizes Available: Squat 15g as shown. Larger plants available on request Sometimes we have 2 or 5g plants.
Regular Prices: As shown, $200
Size shown: Squat 15g  Rarely larger plants at $350 Available now are 3g for $95
Comments: This small to medium sized, drought tolerant plant is usually a single trunk mature plant but can fork above the ground. Most notable is the silver-blue foliage as shown here. It is very slow growing. Over time it forms a trunk about eight or ten inches thick. Foliage is about 2 feet long and not "pokey" or sharp. It demands full sun and is very cold hardy. Gardeners like this species because it's not very big and gives nice color to a sunny garden. Availability varible.

photo from it dreamstime.org website

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

Utilizing any of the species shown above, including the tropical trees, companion plants and epiphytic species - and remember the color you can create a magical and beautiful tropical garden in almost any area of Southern California. Remember, the floor of the garden is critical. You fill it with lots of these "companion plants" and it will seem complete. We help customers all the time in doing this - helping pick the right species that give the perfect look. Feel free to contact us for assistance. The photos below will show you what you can create in your garden.

Thank you for visiting this webpage. Prices and availability can change over time.
We'll be updating this page with new species as they become available.
The two links below direct you to more interesting information on tropical companion plants.

TO VIEW THE CELL PHONE VERSION WITH 10% OF THE PICTURES, CLICK HERE

TO READ A PICTORIAL PRESENTATION ONLY ABOUT COLORFUL COMPANION PLANTS, CLICK HERE

BROMELIADS IN THE LANDSCAPE

This page was last updated 03/07/2025 15:21:13

TO SEE AN ACQUIRED PIRVATE COLLECTION OF EXOTIC TROPICAL PLANTS, CLICK HERE

Phil Bergman

Owner, Jungle Music Palms and Cycads

Email:
phil.bergman@junglemusic.net

Website:
www.junglemusic.net

New Nursery Location:

1111 Urania 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).

NURSERY HAS MOVED - NEW ADDRESS:

JUNGLE MUSIC NURSERY
1111 URANIA AVE.
ENCINITAS, CA 92024

(A half mile from present location - Phone & email remain the same)

DIRECTIONS

Travel East on Leucadia Ave. off Freeway 5
In about 1/4 mile turn left on Urania Ave.
We're about 1/4 of a mile down on your right -
or, about 100 feet past the first red stop sign.
We are on your right down the driveway.

Mailing Address:
3233 Brant Street, San Diego, CA 92103

MINI SITE DIRECTORY

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Please see our free Palm Tree Help &Cycad Help Articles

AFRICAN TULIP TREE SPATHODEA CAMPANULATA MEDIUM TO LARGE FLOWERING TREE ORANGE OR RARE YELLOW BLOSSOMS Country or area of origin: Arid areas of Africa Mature height: 20-75 feet, full canopy Sun Requirements: Full sun most areas Water Requirements: Moderate Rate of Growth: Medium to fast Sizes Available: Usually 5g and 15g Regular Prices: (orange) 5g $95, 15g $195+ - (yellow cost more - limited) Size shown: 15g Comments: Florid color, long lasting blossoms. Also have rare yellow blossoming form on occasion.	Our 5g yellow form plants	15g size

from Maui Plant Chronicles Website	Rare yellow blossoming form

AGAVE OCTOPUS AGAVE AGAVE VILMORINIANA Country or area of origin: Northern Mexico Mature height: 4 feet Sun Requirements: Full sun most areas Cold Tolerance: To about 20 degrees F. Water Requirements: Light Rate of Growth: Medium Sizes Available: Usually 5g and 15g Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $195 Size shown: 5g and 15g Comments: Shorter, xerophytic type plant that tolerates hot sun. Leaves curved and shaped like Octopus. Leaves thick and fleshy.	5 gallon size
	larger 15g size	photo c/o website Univ. of Arizona, Pima County

AGAVE AGAVE ATTENUATA DR. SUESS PLANT OR WHAT? NEVER OVER 6 TO 7 FEET TALL BLUE LEAVES, THIN TRUNK ASSORTMENT OF SIZES Country or area of origin: Mexico Mature height: 6 feet Sun Requirements: Full sun most areas Cold Tolerance: To about 25 degrees F. Water Requirements: Light Rate of Growth: Medium Sizes Available: Usually 5g, 15g sometimes old specimens as shown Regular Prices: 5g $85, 15g $225, 15g & 20 & 25g (large trunks)$350 Size shown: 5g, old and tall 15g and 20g Comments: Shorter, xerophytic type plant that tolerates hot sun. Leaves are thick and fleshy and take on a blue color, even in part sun. Over many years slowly form trunks as shown here. Almost a "cartoon -like, Dr. Seuss" plant. Old trunk specimens are occasionally available.	20g size
		5 gallon plant same species
Very old 15g size - Usually much shorter

AIR PLANTS TILLANDSIA SPECIES MOUNT ON TREE TRUNKS, POLES OR ALMOST ANYTHING! OLD CLUSTERS OF PLANTS BLOSSOM EVERY YEAR DIFFERENT COLORS DEPENDING ON SPECIES Country or area of origin: Mexico down through Central America Mature height: not applicable - epiphytic plants Sun Requirements: Full or part sun most areas Cold Tolerance: To about 20 - 25 degrees F. Water Requirements: Occasional spray Rate of Growth: Medium Sizes Available: Sold as clusters of four or more plants typically. Some are free standing clusters, others mounted to wood (cost a bit more) Regular Prices: Small clusters $75 Bigger clusters $100-125, large mounted $125-$150 Size shown: Both sizes Comments: Usually mounted with fishing line tied to galvanized nails. A spray every week or ten days is adequate unless super hot. Occasional spray with liquid fertilizer. Very reliable plants. Various species offered over time. Blossom in spring - fall.

ALOCASIA "CAL - ODORA" UNUSUAL HYBRID DWARF - TYPE OF "ELEPHANT EAR PLANT" TROPICAL LOOKING BUT SMALL! ALOCASIA NEVER OVER FOUR FEET TALL Country or area of origin: Is a variety or hybrid type of plant Mature height: 3 to 4 feet tall - suckers, forms small clumps. Sun Requirements: Right on coast - full sun. Far inland filtered light. Cold Tolerance: To about low to mid 20's F. Water Requirements: Appreciate adequate water Rate of Growth: Medium Sizes Available: 5g and 15g, both shown here. Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $200 Size shown: 5g and 15g Comments: Easy to grow if one gives them enough water. This hybrid is very short, much shorter than A. calidora below. Too much sun or lack of water browns leaves.	15 gallon size
15 gallon size	5 gallon size	5 gallon size

ALOCASIA CALIDORA LARGE SIZE - BIG LEAVES MATURE HEIGHT TO 8 FEET LEAVES 4 FEET LONG OR MORE SOME PREFER HYBRID ABOVE FOR SMALLER SIZE Country or area of origin: Is a variety or hybrid type of plant Mature height: 8 feet - suckers, forms clumps. Sun Requirements: Right on coast - can take full sun. Far inland filtered light. Cold Tolerance: To about low to mid 20's F. Water Requirements: Appreciate adequate water Rate of Growth: Medium to fast Sizes Available: 5g and 15g, both shown here. Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $200 Size shown: 5g and 15g Comments: Easy to grow if one gives them enough water. This hybrid is bigger than one above. If you have room, very lush and attractive. Too much sun or lack of water browns leaves.		5 gallon size
15 gallon size
		Photo by Eric in Orlando

ALOCASIA PORTORA BIG LEAF SPECIES BUT NOT OVERLY TALL STRIKINGLY BEAUTIFUL COMPANION PLANT Country or area of origin: This Elephant Ear is also a hybrid with no native home. Mature height: 5 - 7 feet, forms clumps. Sun Requirements: Most areas along coast a little sun - Inland filtered light Cold Tolerance: To about mid 20's F. Water Requirements: Appreciate adequate water Rate of Growth: Medium to fast Sizes Available: 5g & 15g, latter shown here. Regular Prices: 5g $100, 15g $200 Size shown: 5g and 15g Comments: Easy to grow if one gives them enough water. This hybrid has a scalloped leaf with wavy leaf edges. It's more attractive than hybrid above and, in filtered light, a darker green. It's one of our favorites.
		Photo by Austinbotany Website

ALOCASIA WENTI A TYPE OF ELEPHANT EAR ALOCASIA FRONT OF LEAF GREEN BACK OF LEAF DARK PURPLE SUPER COLD HARDY Country or area of origin: New Guinea Mature height: 3 to 4feet Sun Requirements: Filtered light Cold Tolerance: Mid-twenties F. and probably lower Water Requirements: Moderate Rate of Growth: Medium Sizes Available: 1 and 5 gallon Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $100, 7g $165, 15g $200 Size shown: 1g and 5g Comments: Easy to grow Alocasia that has purple backs to the leaves. It's probably one of the more cold hardy of any Alocasia. It suckers freely and makes small, contained clumps of plants. Also, super attractive in the garden.
purple color to back of leaf	1 gallon size
	5 gallon size	photo by johnjearrard.co.uk website

ALOE BLUE ELF SMALL SUCCULENT IN FLOWER NICE 2G PLANTS SMALL, COMPACT - FULL SUN Country or area of origin: Hybrid with no native home Mature height: 18 inches, blossom rising above Sun Requirements: Most areas full sun Cold Tolerance: To about mid 20's F. Water Requirements: Water conserving Rate of Growth: Slow Sizes Available: 2g shown here. Regular Prices: 2g $55 when available Size shown: 2g Comments: Easy to grow. Likes heat and sun. Blossoms orange and 2 to 3 feet tall. Foliage is blue color. Not a big plant but nice. Garden photo by asu.edu

ANGELS TRUMPET TREE BRUGMANSIA MOST HAVE PENDANT COLORFUL & FRAGRANT FLOWERS BRAZILIAN CLOAK IS DIFFERENT STUNNING UPRIGHT RED FLOWERS IN PRODUCTION NOW! Country or area of origin: South America Mature height: Ten to twenty feet or more. Smaller in containers. Sun Requirements: Strong filtered light to full sun Cold Tolerance: Many will tolerate a freeze or lower. Water Requirements: Average water Rate of Growth: Slow Sizes Available: 15 gallon Regular Prices: To be determined Size shown: Garden shots only Comments: Brugsmania is a group of plants that have a florid show of hanging, trumpet shaped blossoms. And, they are fragrant. The first two pictures show such plants. But, there's one from Brazil that has upright red flowers. See the last two pictures. This is the rarest of the group and is stunning! This is one we're hoping to have available this year. Of course, we're working on the other types as well.	photo by Wikipedia	photo by Bakker.com website
Brazilian cloak - photo by gumtree.com.au	Brazilian Cloak - photo by Igarden.com.au website

ANTHURIUM, FLOWERING ANTHURIUM KNOWN FOR THEIR FLOWERS NEVER VERY BIT PLANTS SOME COLD RISK RED, PINK, WHITE AND OTHERS Country or area of origin: Many species and hybrids. Native from Mexico down into northern South America Mature height: Epiphytic plants in nature, usually under 2 feet tall. Domestically grown in pots. Sun Requirements: Filtered light for most Cold Tolerance: To upper 20's F. Water Requirements: Average water Rate of Growth: Slow Sizes Available: 6" and 8" pots shown here Regular Prices: $45 to $55, depending on species/variety/size Size shown: 6 and 8 inch pots Comments: These plants like proper care for continual blossoming. Blossoms are red, white, pink with some black-red flowers. We've never had yellow. They prefer filtered light, good humidity and occasional fertilizer. They give instant color to the garden or patio. Easy to grow in a greenhouse.

ANTHURIUM BIRDSNEST ANTHURIUM ANTHURIUM HOOKERI EXOTIC WIDE WRINKLED LEAVES NEVER GET TOO BIG Country or area of origin: Ecuador and Columbia in South America where it typically grows epiphytically Mature height: Epiphytic plants in nature, usually under 6 feet tall. Domestically grown in pots and about the same mature height. Sun Requirements: Filtered light for most people Cold Tolerance: Mid to upper 20's F. Water Requirements: Average water Rate of Growth: Slow Sizes Available: Some 5g, 7g and 20g Regular Prices: 5g size $100, 7g $155+, 15g $200 to $275, 20g inquire Size shown: 5g, 7g and 20g Comments: These are one of the most cool companion plants you can add to the garden. Leaves are wide and long with a thick wrinkled texture and scalloped edges. Leaves can get an impressive five feet long! Plants will flower producing red seeds. Very easy to grow.	This and next 4 pictures 7g size

20 gallon size	Photo by Plant Places Website	5 gallon size
		photo c/o Wikipedia

ANTHURIUM, EXOTIC SPECIES ALL NATIVE TO THE AMERICAS SOME TERRESTRIAL - OTHERS EPIPHYTIC IN TREES ALL VERY BEAUTIFUL AND COLLECTIBLE MANY GROW THEM AS INTERIOR PLANTS - BUT GREAT GARDEN COMPANION SPECIMENS Country or area of origin: The Americas (New World) Mature height: Anywhere from one foot to over eight feet Sun Requirements: Most like filtered light Cold Tolerance: Variable - Figure most don't want to see a freeze Water Requirements: Average water Rate of Growth: Slow to medium Sizes Available: 1g to 25g Regular Prices: Variable depending on size and rarity Size shown: 1g to 25 gallon Comments: Shown here are an assortment of exotic Anthurium we've had at the nursery in the past few months. Often we just get one of a species. Then we try to get others. Most are from private collectors. You'll likely find none of these at regular nurseries. All are super desirable. Of note, all of these rare Anthurium are not a commercial product and only come from collectors. So, availability is sparse and rare.

AMOPHOPHALLUS TUBERS WITH AMAZING BLOSSOMS! AMORPHOPHALLUS TITANUM: LARGEST INFLORESCENCE IN WORLD! YES, WE OFFER THEM FOR SALE FROM TIME TO TIME Country or area of origin: Asia, Africa, Australia and some Pacific Islands Mature height: There are about 200 species in this genus. Most don't get that tall. I'd estimate mature heights ranging from a few feet up to eight feet (not counting blossom) Sun Requirements: Most like filtered light Cold Tolerance: I think a safe rule is that none really tolerate a freeze. Water Requirements: Average water Rate of Growth: Slow to medium Sizes Available: 3 to 5g Regular Prices: Variable depending on size and rarity Size shown: When available, usually 1 to 5g size Comments: Amorphophallus are a very different and unique genus of plants. Amorphophallus titanum is known for having the largest flower of any plant in the world. (see photo below) All have different stems/foliage and flowers. Note the interesting spots on the stems here. If you are in a frost free area, these are fun to try. The two I've had recently as shown here are an unknown type. As a group, these are known as the "Voodo Plants".	Amorphophallus species
		Another Amorphophallus species
		Amorphophallus titanum c/o Wikipedia

AURICARIA ANGUSITFOLIA A CONIFEROUS EVERGREEN NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND THIS SPECIES NATIVE TO SOUTH AMERICA MAKE LARGE MATURE TREES VERY DIFFERENT! Country or area of origin: Brazil Mature height: Over 100 feet and, in habitat, up to 200 feet tall Sun Requirements: Full sun most areas Cold Tolerance: Uncertain - rare - But felt to probably be low 20's F. Water Requirements: Average water Rate of Growth: Slow to medium Sizes Available: 15 gallon and 20 gallon Regular Prices: 15g $195 to $225, 20g $350 - $450 Size shown: 15 and 20g Comments: Primitive tree with genus having habitats around the world. Is related to a Pine Tree. This species gets very tall with a thick trunk. Leaflets are bunched and prickly. Super rare and super striking!
		Very full 15g, old
20 gallon size		photo by Prota4u.org website

BAMBOO BAMBUSA MULTIPLEX 'ALPHONSE KARR' COLD HARDY CLUMPING BAMBOO GREEN STRIPES ON GOLD CANES MATURE HEIGHT 15 TO 30 FEET Country or area of origin: Eastern Asia and Himalayas Mature height: to 25 feet but can be maintained at 10 to 12 feet with pruning Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest Water Requirements: Ample water Rate of Growth: Slow Sizes Available: 15g size only Regular Prices: $195 Size shown: 15 gallon Comments: This is described as a clumping type of Bamboo. It has 1.5 inch stems that are yellow with thin green stripes. It is a fairly quick grower. Remember, all Bamboo like water. At the Nursery we're not huge fans of Bamboo, so we carry very few plants of Bamboo. We've found that most types just take over a garden.
		Photo c/o MrBamboo Website, Australia

BAMBOO - MEXICAN WEEPING BAMBOO OTATEA ACUMINATA THIN LEAFLETS, HANGING LEAVES SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED SUPER POPULAR Country or area of origin: Mexico Mature height: Containerized, 6 to 8 feet. In ground to 20 feet. Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest Water Requirements: Ample water but, once established, water can be cut back. Rate of Growth: Average Sizes Available: 15g size only Regular Prices: sold out Size shown: 15 gallon Comments: This is a clumping bamboo. Anticipate it's planting girth to double in three to five years. It responds to water, especially if not doing well. You can maintain height through pruning and also grow it in nice pot.

	Photo by PlantBook.org website

BIRD OF PARADISE, GIANT BIRD OF PARADISE STRELITZIA NICOLAI SUCKERING LARGE PLANT LOOKS LIKE A BANANA Country or area of origin: South Africa Mature height: In ground, typically 25 feet tall, 15 feet wide or more Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest. Will not take into the teens. Water Requirements: Ample water but, once established, water can be cut back. Rate of Growth: Moderate to fast. Tend to "take over" an area. Sizes Available: 5g and 15g size on request Regular Prices: $85 for 5g. Size shown: 5 gallon Comments: This is an aggressive plant. We are not too fond of them but feel obligated to mention them here because so many people think "they have to have one". They are a high maintenance plant. Without good care and pruning, they get very scrappy looking. Be aware they can lift decking and foundations. Many nurserymen consider them to be "Junk Plants"	5 gallon plants shown here

BIRD OF PARADISE STRELITZIA REGINAE THE SMALL BIRD OF PARADISE COLORFUL BLOSSOMS NEVER OVER ABOUT 4 TO 5 FEET TALL ALSO SHOWING S. JUNCEA AND "SPOONER" FORM Country or area of origin: South Africa Mature height: In ground, typically 4 feet tall Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest. Will not take into the teens. Water Requirements: Average water Rate of Growth: Moderate, but never getting too tall. Sizes Available: 15g size Regular Prices: $15g $155, rare forms more Size shown: 15 gallon Comments: This plant is nothing like the Giant Bird of Paradise. It stays small and is much more attractive. It never "takes over" an area. The blossom is gold with red and blue highlights. These are easy to grow. The two other forms are just as easy to grow but the blossoms are a bit different.	15g size
Spooner form		photo by DirkvdM Wikipedia

BANANA DWARF CAVENDISH OR GRAN NAIN FRUITING BANANA NEVER OVER 6 FEET, COLD HARDY ONLY FRUITING BANANA THAT DOES GREAT IN SOUTHERN CA VARIETY SHOWN "GRAN NAIN" Country or area of origin: Is cultivar so no native home per se Mature height: In ground, typically 6 feet tall Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: To lower 20's at coldest. Will not take into the teens. Water Requirements: Ample water Rate of Growth: Moderate, but never getting too tall. Sizes Available: 5g & 15g size Regular Prices: $1g $45-$55, 5g $85, 15g $195 Size shown: 5 gallon Comments: This is the most popular fruiting banana for Southern CA. It never gets tall and it's not hard to set fruit. The variety shown is an ideal fruiting variety called Musa Gran Nain - which we recommend.
		photo c/o Wikipedia

BANANA, THE RED BANANA ENSETE VENTRICOSUM MAURELII THE ABYSSIAN BANANA SHORT LIFE BUT VERY PRETTY DOESN'T PRODUCE FRUIT Country or area of origin: South and central Africa Mature height: In ground, typically 15 feet or more Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: To mid to upper 20's at coldest. Will not take into the teens. Water Requirements: Ample water Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground Sizes Available: 1g, 5g & 15g size Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $100, 15g $200 Size shown: 5 gallon & 15 gallon Comments: This single trunk species is not a true banana. It'll never produce fruit. It grows quickly and has a short life. When it blossoms, it dies a short time later. This can take two to four years. Leaves are green with red highlights.
	photo by Linda Cochran	photo by Carl Garscens Flikr

BANANA, VARIEGATED REG AND GREEN, BLACK AND GREEN MUSA ZEBRINA MUSA SUMATRANA Country or area of origin: Indonesia Mature height: In ground, typically 15 feet or more Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: Upper 20's F., perhaps colder Water Requirements: Ample water Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground Sizes Available: 15g size as shown when available Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $100, 15g $200 Size shown: 15 gallon Comments: This is a suckering species of Banana that gives edible fruit - I can't vouch for how it tastes. The leaves are variegated with a purple brown on a green leaf. They like sun or at least part sun along the coast. Inland areas may require filtered light.	Leaf of Musa sumatrana	This and following photos all M. zebrina

BANANA - YELLOW FLOWERING ENSETE LASIOCARPUM CHINESE YELLOW BANANA FLOWER HUGE - TOO BIG FOR PLANT! Country or area of origin: China, high elevation Mature height: In ground, typically 3 to 5 feet Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: To low 20's F. or even colder Water Requirements: Ample water Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground Sizes Available: 5g size, sometimes bigger Regular Prices: $5g size $95 when available Size shown: 5 gallon Comments: This dwarf species does not bear fruit and never gets over your head. The prominent yellow blossom is peculiar as it's almost too big for the plant. See photo. We have this type of Banana available from time to time.
		photo c/o Wikipedia

BEGONIA ALL SORTS OF TYPES SOME KNOW FOR FLOWERS OTHERS FOR DIFFERENT FOLIAGE Country or area of origin: Arica, Asia, Central America Mature height: Hundreds of species/types. Heights 1 foot to 12 feet Sun Requirements: Most want filtered light but there are a few that will take coastal sun Cold Tolerance: Many are frost tolerant and go into the mid-twenties F. But, some tropical types don't take a freeze. Water Requirements: Average Rate of Growth: Medium Sizes Available: When available, usually 1g or 2g. Rarely have larger Regular Prices: 1g $30 to $40, 5g $85 when available Size shown: 1 and 2 gallon Comments: This diverse group of plants are a great addition to any garden. Assume they want filtered light unless you know otherwise. You'll add some to add bold color. Others have very peculiar, different and yet attractive foliate.	The first 2 rows of pictures show flowering types of Begonia

This row shows Begonia known for their foliage

BLACK ROSE AEONIUM ARBOREUM BLACK-RED COMPANION PLANT SMALL AND EASY TO GROW 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 Regular Prices: 1g, $45 2g $65, 5g $95 Size shown: 1 & 5 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.

AEONIUMS OTHER SPECIES MULTIPLE TYPES Country or area of origin: Canary Islands, Madeira, Morocco, East Africa Mature height: 26 species, variable heights, most not over six feet. Some form small bushes. Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: Many to mid-20's F. Water Requirements: Water conserving Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground Sizes Available: 1g, 2g and 5g Regular Prices: 1g, $35, 2g $55, 5g $85 Size shown: 1 & 5 gallon Comments: As you can see from the photos here, we have four or five varieties/species that are different from the Black Rose. All are cool, all are xerophytic and take sun and none get very large.

ANGELS TRUMPET GOLD DURANTA CHARLES GRIMALDI BIG TRUMPET SHAPED HANGING FLOWERS NEVER TOO TALL SHRUB TYPE OF PLANT Country or area of origin: South America - Andes Mature height: More shrub like to 8 to 12 fee Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas or tolerates part sun Cold Tolerance: Mid to low twenties F. Water Requirements: Average Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground Sizes Available: 20g, limited supply Regular Prices: 20g $275 Size shown: 20g Comments: Big golden hanging flowers. Never gets much over 10 feet. Multiple trunks this plant for lots of color when blossoms. Snails and insects like this genus. Also, leaves toxic container hallucinogen. Never eat flowers or leaves! Note: Compare this plant with Brugsmania below.
	Photo by finegardening.com website

BOTTLE TREE BRACHYCHITON RUPESTRIS FAT SNAKESKIN TRUNK MAKES LARGER TREE, THIN LEAF KNOWN FOR ITS TRUNK AND FOLIAGE Country or area of origin: Queensland, Australia Mature height: Over 50 feet with a massive trunk. Reports of trunks with an eleven foot diameter! Sun Requirements: Sun in coastal areas Cold Tolerance: Low to medium Water Requirements: Water conserving Rate of Growth: Fast growing in ground Sizes Available: 5g and 15g Regular Prices: 5g $95, 15g $195 Size shown: 15g Comments: This larger garden tree is actually easy to grow. It has a cold tolerance to the low 20's F. It is known for a smooth and wide trunk. It's a snakeskin type of trunk surface. The tree bulges towards its base giving it a very different appearance. The leaflets are narrow, letting in nice filtered light.
		by anbg.gov
		by Adelaide Zoo Website, Australia

BRAZILIAN CANDLES TREE PAVONIA MULTIFLORA RED BLOSSOMS IN SHADE! SEMI-DWARF - NOT OVER SIX TO SEVEN FEET RARE AND GORGEOUS Country or area of origin: Brazil Mature height: Six to seven feet Sun Requirements: Filtered light or some sun - not a full, hot sun tree Cold Tolerance: Uncertain but probably mid-twenties F. Water Requirements: Moderate Rate of Growth: Slow Sizes Available: 1g & 5g Regular Prices: 1g $45, 5g $95 Size shown: 1 and 5 gallon Note, availability recently very low Comments: This rare dwarf tropical tree give color in filtered light. The blossoms are a dark red as shown. Tree height is short, rarely over six to seven feet. And, it flowers all year long - even during the Holidays! Blossom size is about three inches. These are quite rare and super difficult to find.
		15 gallon size
15 and 20g size		Photo by Duonrevig Website

BRAZILIAN FERN TREE BRAZILIAN FIRE TREE SCHIZILOBIUM PARHYBA AKA SCHIZOBILUM EXCELSA Country or area of origin: Brazil Mature height: In the wild, up to 80 feet or more. In domestic U.S. locations, typically 35 feet Sun Requirements: Sun Cold Tolerance: Mid-twenties. May drop leaves in cold weather - typically goes deciduous in So Cal Water Requirements: Moderate Rate of Growth: Fast Sizes Available: Not available right now Regular Prices: when available, tend to be expensive Size shown: 5g Comments: This species of tropical tree is known for the light shade it produces below its canopy. It is a perfect light shade producing tree. It grows quickly and has sort of a snake skin, thinner trunk. The crown is wispy and very pretty. It is coveted by collectors. We tend to run out of them but fortunately, from time to time, we get them in.

photo by biogeo.db.stri.si website	photo by Flikr, unknown author