Orchid Tree

Orchid Tree blooms

Bauhinia purpurea

Taken in Waimea Kauai Hawaii where they line the main street of downtown. At full bloom they look gorgeous.

Synonyms: Hong Kong Orchid Tree, Butterfly Tree, Mountain Ebony, Geranium Tree, Purple Bauhinia

Orchid tree is native to Southeast Asia and is well adapted to hot tropical climates as well as more mild ones. Known as Bauhinia blakeana in scientific parlance, the Hong Kong orchid tree is something of an enigma. Orchid tree is used as a street tree, shade tree, specimen or focal tree in tropical and subtropical landscapes.
Blooms

In late winter, it explodes with the blooms that give rise to its common English name – Hong Kong orchid tree – and which have been adopted as the emblem of Hong Kong. The beautiful display of orchid-like blooms makes the tree so desirable for the landscape. The beautiful, white, three to four-inch-wide, orchid-like blooms appear in abundance from spring through summer and are followed by flat, dark brown seed pods.

Fruit

Fruit is often juicy, with a subtle sweet taste somewhat resembling to an apple. Orchid trees drop fruit, small branches and leaves periodically so some people consider it a messy tree. The fruits turn black when they mature. Flowers are followed by 6-12", woody, pod fruit. The deep red fruits are food for wild animals.

Leaves

Leaves are bold, dark green, resembling a spread-out wing of a bird. Leaves are bright green and delicate like those of cypress. Leaves are rigidly subcoriaceous, glabrous and are divided into 2 lobes with almost angular tips.

Seeds

Seeds are in pea-like brown pods, which may be 15 to 30 cm long. Hong Kong orchid trees are propagated from cuttings while Purple orchid trees are propagated from seeds. Pre-soak the seeds by soaking overnight in hot water.

Soil

Orchid trees do best in acidic soil and suffer under limey conditions. Water the orchid tree when the soil is dry, generally every week to two weeks. They're deep-rooted plants so they don't like to be transplanted but they will tolerate hot, exposed positions and dry soils.

Discover These 3 Species of Bougainvillea

Bougainvilleas

Someone has probably placed several plants in one place to get this result of several colored bougainvilleas. Picture does not do it justice.

Bougainvillea glabra- Choisy:
Let's begin our exploration with Bougainvillea glabra Choisy, a true gem in the Bougainvillea family. Originating from Southeastern Brazil, this variety boasts vibrant and eye-catching colors, ranging from purples, pinks, and oranges to yellows. Its versatile nature allows it to thrive both in gardens and as container plants. With its dense foliage and moderate growth rate, Bougainvillea glabra Choisy is perfect for those looking to add a touch of elegance and color to their outdoor spaces.

One of the most remarkable features of Bougainvillea glabra- Choisy is its ability to adapt to various climates, making it an excellent choice for gardeners worldwide. Whether you reside in a warm tropical region or a cooler temperate zone, this species will grace your garden with its stunning floral displays in spring and summer. Additionally, its resistance to pests and diseases adds another layer of convenience for gardeners who seek low-maintenance but visually striking plants.

Bougainvillea × buttiana -Holttum & Standl:
Next, let's explore the captivating Bougainvillea × buttiana Holttum & Standl, which is a hybrid resulting from a cross between Bougainvillea glabra and Bougainvillea peruviana. This stunning variety carries the best of both parent plants, offering a remarkable fusion of colors and characteristics. Bougainvillea × buttiana Holttum & Standl has become a beloved choice among gardeners worldwide due to its breathtaking floral displays and hardy nature.

The color palette of Bougainvillea × buttiana- Holttum & Standl is truly extraordinary, encompassing vivid pinks, purples, and reds, making it an eye-catching addition to any garden or patio. Its ability to tolerate drought and heat also makes it a great choice for gardeners who live in arid or semi-arid regions. Moreover, this hybrid variety is known for its vigorous growth habit, ensuring a lush and vibrant display throughout the blooming seasons.

Bougainvillea spectabilis -Willd:
Our journey through the world of Bougainvillea wouldn't be complete without delving into the classic beauty of Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd. Originating from South America, this particular species has an illustrious history and is widely appreciated for its show-stopping flowers. With its vibrant bracts and delicate flowers nestled within, Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd is sure to captivate your heart and transform your garden into a heavenly oasis.

This species presents a wide range of colors, including deep purples, vibrant pinks, and fiery oranges. Its long-lasting blooms are a testament to its enduring charm, creating a visual spectacle that will leave your guests in awe. Bougainvillea spectabilis -Willd's vigorous growth and climbing tendencies make it perfect for adorning walls, trellises, and fences, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your outdoor spaces. In conclusion, Bougainvillea offers a world of endless possibilities for gardeners seeking to infuse their landscapes with vibrant colors and natural beauty. Whether you choose Bougainvillea glabra Choisy, Bougainvillea × buttiana Holttum & Standl, or Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd, each species brings its own unique charm and flair to your garden.

Multi-colored HIbiscus

Multi-colored Hibiscus

Here's another one among many that grow well in Hawaii.

The allure of multi-colored hibiscus is undeniable. These vibrant hibiscus varieties have captivated the hearts of plant enthusiasts and gardeners alike with their stunning array of colors. From bold reds and pinks to vibrant oranges and yellows, these colorful hibiscus plants add a touch of beauty to any garden or landscape.

Hibiscus flowers are known for their large, showy blooms that can span up to 6 inches in diameter. The multi-colored varieties take this beauty to the next level, with petals that boast a mesmerizing blend of hues. Whether it's a combination of red and yellow, or purple and white, each bloom is a masterpiece in itself.

Gardeners are drawn to multi-colored hibiscus not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their versatility. These plants can be grown in pots or directly in the ground, making them suitable for gardens of all sizes. Additionally, they thrive in both tropical and subtropical climates, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a splash of color year-round.

Furthermore, multi-colored hibiscus is not just limited to outdoor gardens. They can also be grown indoors as potted plants, allowing individuals to enjoy their beauty even in smaller living spaces.

In conclusion, the allure of multi-colored hibiscus lies in their ability to transform any space into a vibrant oasis. With their dazzling array of colors and versatile growing options, these captivating flowers are sure to bring joy and beauty wherever they are planted.

Double Bloom Hibiscus

Double bloom Hibiscus

Beautiful! Gives the bloom a 3D effect.

Get ready to have your mind blown and your heart blooming with excitement as we introduce you to the mesmerizing beauty of the Double Bloom Hibiscus! This extraordinary flower, with its double petals, is nature's way of showing off its creative flair.

Imagine a regular hibiscus flower, then double the petals and double the wow factor. That's what you get with this floral marvel. It's like Mother Nature decided to go all out and create a masterpiece that would leave flower lovers speechless.

The Double Bloom Hibiscus is not your average garden variety. It's a showstopper that demands attention wherever it blooms. Its vibrant colors and intricate layers of petals make it a true work of art.

Whether you're an avid gardener or simply appreciate nature's beauty, this hibiscus will surely make your heart skip a beat. Prepare to be blown away by its sheer elegance and grace.

So, next time you come across the Double Bloom Hibiscus, take a moment to admire its unique charm. It's living proof that sometimes, two really is better than one when it comes to flowers!

Tulip Anthurium

Tulip Anthurium

Anthurium amnicola

We found this plant in all gardens in Hawaii. My mother-in-law claims to have called these "little boys." Hah hah. Comes in many different colors and present themselves in an erect position on a long stem.

Synonyms: Hawaiian Tulip, Tulip Tail Flower, Tulip Flamingo Flower

First and foremost, let us shed light on the origins of the Tulip Anthurium. Native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, this stunning plant was discovered by the botanist Eduard de la Marck in the late 19th century. Since then, it has become a beloved addition to gardens all around the world, mesmerizing gardeners with its striking appearance.

The Tulip Anthurium boasts an impressive array of colors, ranging from vibrant reds and pinks to soothing whites and yellows. Its velvety, heart-shaped leaves, coupled with its unique spadix and spathes, create a visual spectacle that exudes elegance and grace. Such a spectacle is sure to turn any ordinary garden into a paradise of colors.

One extraordinary fact about the Tulip Anthurium is its symbolism. Often associated with love and passion, this flowering plant has become a popular choice for romantic gestures and gifts. Imagine the joy on a gardener's face as they witness the beauty of the Tulip Anthurium blossoming, symbolizing the blooming of their love for nature and gardening.

While the Tulip Anthurium may appear delicate, it possesses a remarkable resilience. With the proper care and attention, this plant can thrive for many years, rewarding gardeners with its breathtaking blooms. It requires a well-drained soil, moderate sunlight, and regular watering to flourish. With these simple guidelines, gardeners can ensure the longevity and vitality of their cherished Tulip Anthurium.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this marvelous plant also offers health benefits. The Tulip Anthurium acts as a natural air purifier, removing harmful toxins and pollutants from its surroundings. In a world increasingly concerned with environmental well-being, the Tulip Anthurium proves to be an ally, promoting cleaner and fresher air for all.

Daylily

Gardeners, with their keen eye for beauty and their dedication to nurturing nature's gifts, were particularly entranced by the daylily's mesmerizing blooms. These flowers, which burst forth in an array of colors ranging from vibrant oranges and yellows to delicate pinks and purples, seemed to radiate joy and vitality in every petal.

One of the most intriguing aspects of daylilies was their lifespan. Contrary to what their name suggested, daylilies did not merely last for a single day. In fact, these resilient flowers could bloom for weeks on end, providing a continuous display of beauty throughout the summer months. This remarkable longevity made daylilies an essential addition to any garden, providing a reliable source of color and elegance.

But the allure of daylilies extended beyond their resilience. Gardeners marveled at the sheer variety that existed within this flower species. With over 80,000 registered cultivars, daylilies offered an endless range of shapes, sizes, and patterns. From ruffled edges to intricate patterns called "eyes," each daylily had a unique personality that added depth and intrigue to any garden landscape.

Furthermore, daylilies were not just pretty faces; they possessed a practical side too. These hardy perennials were remarkably adaptable, capable of thriving in a variety of climates and soil conditions. Whether it was scorching summers or frigid winters, daylilies stood strong, making them an ideal choice for both experienced gardeners and novices alike.

In addition to their adaptability, daylilies were also known for their low-maintenance nature. Unlike some fussy flowers that demanded constant attention, daylilies were incredibly easy to care for. They required minimal watering, were resistant to common pests and diseases, and seldom needed fertilization. This made them a gardener's dream, allowing them to spend more time enjoying their garden's beauty rather than toiling away in maintenance.

But perhaps the most remarkable fact about daylilies was their edible nature. Yes, that's right – these exquisite flowers were not just a feast for the eyes but for the taste buds as well.

Chenille Plant

Chenille Plant

Acalypha hispida

A fast grower and a steady bloomer. No bug problems. All parts of plant are poisonous if ingested. A strange but gorgeous plant.

Synonym: Philippine medusa, red hot cat tail,Acalypha hispida

The Chenille Plant, scientifically known as Acalypha hispida, was a tropical gem that hailed from the warm regions of Southeast Asia. Its distinctive feature was its unusual flowers that resembled soft, fuzzy caterpillars, hence the name "Chenille." These vibrant red or pink inflorescences, which bloomed in abundance during the summer months, were a sight to behold.

Gardeners were enchanted by the Chenille Plant not only for its striking appearance but also for its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. It was a versatile plant that could be grown indoors or outdoors, making it an excellent choice for garden enthusiasts with limited space. Its low-maintenance nature added to its appeal, as it required minimal care and attention.

The Chenille Plant was known to be a sun-loving species, thriving in bright and indirect sunlight. As gardeners nurtured their plants, they discovered that it preferred well-drained soil and regular watering to keep its foliage healthy and vibrant. However, it was important not to overwater, as it could lead to root rot. With these simple guidelines in mind, gardeners found great joy in cultivating this enchanting plant.

But the allure of the Chenille Plant did not end with its appearance and ease of care. The plant was also believed to possess certain medicinal properties. It was said to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable asset for herbal remedies. Gardeners were intrigued by the potential of this plant to heal and soothe, adding an additional layer of fascination to their growing collections.

The Chenille Plant's popularity among gardeners grew exponentially as they shared their experiences and discoveries. Through gardening clubs, online forums, and workshops, enthusiasts exchanged tips and tricks on how to best care for this captivating plant. Its stunning flowers became a topic of conversation and a source of inspiration for many, igniting a passion for gardening among both novices and seasoned green thumbs.

As the story of the Chenille Plant continued to spread, more and more gardeners eagerly sought out this unique species for their own gardens. Its professional appeal and ability to brighten any space with its vibrant flowers attracted attention from landscaping experts and horticulturists alike. The Chenille Plant became a symbol of creativity and beauty in the world of gardening, leaving a lasting impression on all who encountered it.

In conclusion, the Chenille Plant, with its fascinating appearance, ease of care, and potential medicinal benefits, enchanted gardeners worldwide. Its unique qualities and professional allure made it a beloved addition to gardens of all sizes. As this captivating story spread, the Chenille Plant became a true gem among gardeners, leaving an indelible mark on the world of horticulture.