Gymnocalycium
Gymnocalycium, commonly called chin cactus, is a genus of about 70 South American species of cactus. The genus name Gymnocalycium (from Greek, "naked calyx") refers to the flower buds bearing no hair or spines.
In cultivation they are popular for their easy flowering habits, and the flowers are generally brightly coloured.
Mammillarias have extremely variable spination from species to species, and attractive flowers, making them attractive for cactus hobbyists. Most mammillarias are considered easy to cultivate,
The Flame Tree
Flame of the Forest
In our garden, the Flame Trees of the Forest (Delonix regia) attest to the glory of God. It is a native species of Madagascar and was discovered by Austrian botanist Wenzel Bojer in 1820 who then introduced it into Mauritius. Since then, the tree has been planted in most of Africa and Asia, including the Southeast Asian region.
Flame of the forest blooms a fire,
Bright red flowers beckoning me.
I pause my stroll for a desire
To make connection with this tree.
From underneath I gaze above
Into the beauty bursting from
This tree, its branches spreading love
Down upon me and most welcome.
I strolled here a lonely, sad one,
Feeling unloved by all the world.
But in moments this tree has done
A wondrous gift of love unfurled.
From flame of the forest I part,
Refreshed with burning, loving heart.
("Flame of the Forest" by Ima Ryma)
Plants in our Garden
Alocasia zebrina
Anthurium andraeanum
Anthurium andraeanum
A tropical plant, preferring bright lighting, but not direct sunlight. Ideally about 60% humidity. Balanced liquid fertilizer once monthly at 50% strength.
Anthurium andraeanum
Anthurium andraeanum
Anthurium andraeanum
A flowering plant species native to Columbia and Ecuador. Prefers warm, shady and humid climates, such as tropical rainforests. Most characteristic feature is its brightly coloured spathe leaf and protruding inflorescence called spadix.
Anthurium bakeri
Anthurium andraeanum
Capsicum frutescens
A tropical evergreen native in Chiapas, Mexico, through Central Mexico and to northwestern South America. Has strappy leaves and bright red flowers in a distinct inflorescence. Grows best in bright, indirect light, high humidity, regular watering and monthly fertilization.
Capsicum frutescens
Capsicum frutescens
Capsicum frutescens
Commonly called Chilli Padi, or Tabasco pepper, it is a wild chilli pepper variety having genetic proximity to the cultivated pepper Capsicum chinense native to Central and South America. The fruit is used for treating debility and warding off colds. The plant is not drought resistant and needs consistent moisture levels. Full sunlight ex
Commonly called Chilli Padi, or Tabasco pepper, it is a wild chilli pepper variety having genetic proximity to the cultivated pepper Capsicum chinense native to Central and South America. The fruit is used for treating debility and warding off colds. The plant is not drought resistant and needs consistent moisture levels. Full sunlight exposure is preferred, and doesn't grow well when temperatures fall below 28 degrees F (minus 2 degrees C). A standard vegetable fertilizer will work fine.
Ficus elastica
Capsicum frutescens
Lilium formosanum
Commonly known as Rubber fig, the plant is native to southern China, Southeast Asia and Indonesia. It is a species of evergreen tropical tree that makes for an excellent houseplant. It is tolerant of indoor light conditions and has air-purifying properties. Don't over-water the plant or move it too much. The plant is poisonous to dogs and
Commonly known as Rubber fig, the plant is native to southern China, Southeast Asia and Indonesia. It is a species of evergreen tropical tree that makes for an excellent houseplant. It is tolerant of indoor light conditions and has air-purifying properties. Don't over-water the plant or move it too much. The plant is poisonous to dogs and cats. Diluted liquid fertilizer can e added every two weeks.
Lilium formosanum
Capsicum frutescens
Lilium formosanum
Also known as the Formosa lily or Taiwanese lily, this plant species is endemic to Taiwan. They have showy, trumpet-shaped flowers. The plant likes moisture but not resistant to standing water. All parts of the lily plant are toxic to both dogs and cats. Ingesting lilies can be harmful to humans also. Lilies love full sun, and six hours o
Also known as the Formosa lily or Taiwanese lily, this plant species is endemic to Taiwan. They have showy, trumpet-shaped flowers. The plant likes moisture but not resistant to standing water. All parts of the lily plant are toxic to both dogs and cats. Ingesting lilies can be harmful to humans also. Lilies love full sun, and six hours or more is imperative. However, the roots need to be in cool condition.