Author: Steve Turner

Rare & Unusual Tropical Trees & Plants, Flowering, Fruit, Native, Palm, Bamboo, Heliconia, Hummingbird, Butterfly

Texas Sage

Leucophyllum frutescens is a woody shrub native to the Chihuahuan Desert. It may be an arid growing shrub native to Texas, but it grows very well in South Florida. It thrives in well drained alkaline soils common to South Florida and can tolerate our humid rainy season as well as our drier winters. It flowers…
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May 14, 2023 0

Bahama Firebush

Hamelia cuprea is a close relative to our native firebush (Hamelia patens).  Bahama Firebush, is native to Jamaica, Cuba, Haiti, and the Cayman Islands.  However, despite its common name, is not native to the Bahamas. Its leaves are larger and glossier than our native firebush, and its flowers are bell shaped and much showier than…
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May 7, 2023 0

The Green Jade Vine

Strongylodon macrobotrys is native to the Philippines and grows quite well in South Florida. The unique claw-shaped flowers are bat pollinated in their native habitat. However, itis the unique color of its flowers that fascinate anybody who has ever seen it. A true jade green color like the gemstone. Truly a very unusual color in…
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April 30, 2023 0

Horseradish Tree

Moringa oleifera is an excellent shade tree for South Florida attaining a height of 30-40′. However, its flowers and leaves are edible and have become popular with the health craze. The leaves and flowers can be steamed and have a high amount of protein, calcium, iron and vitamins B12 and C. The leaves are also…
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April 23, 2023 0

Satake Palm Tree

Satakentia liukiuensis, while endemic to some small islands of Japan, grows very well in South Florida. It is a moderately fast growing palm tree with a single trunk attaining a height of 25-30′. This species’ most unique feature, and what makes this palm very attractive, is its maroon, brown crown shaft. Richard Lyons Nursery currently…
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April 16, 2023 0