Subtropical plant - Plant Encyclopedia Results (Page 7)

Sky blue funnel-shaped flowers occur in many-flowered cymes on long, erect stems. Agapanthus is originating from Southern Africa. Both deciduous and evergreen, some have thick, strappy leaves and others grass-like foliage. They range from fully hardy to half hardy, with the evergreen varieties generally the most tender.

The Queensland Kauri or Agathis robusta is a majestic tree that is native to Australia. It has cones that are 3-4 inches long, on a short stalk, and very resinous. This tree is best suited for large gardens and public spaces as it is slow-growing and can reach great heights.

Agathis robusta is hardy to USDA Zone 8-11, and can tolerate temperatures down to about mid-20°F for a short time. It should be planted in a full sun location and will require moderate water during the growing season. However, it can withstand dry periods once established.

This tree is an excellent timber tree and is prized for its durability. The Queensland Kauri has one of the strongest timbers in the world and is used in construction, shipbuilding, and furniture making.

The Queensland Kauri is an attractive tree with an upright and well-formed crown. It requires little maintenance once established, but new plants should be watered deeply and regularly until they become well established. This process can take up to two years depending on the climate.

Overall, Agathis robusta is an excellent choice for those looking for a hardy and impressive large specimen for the garden or public space. The slow-growing and long-lived tree is sure to provide an interesting focal point and add an air of prestige to any area.

Agave americana, commonly known as the century plant, is a striking succulent renowned for its dramatic, spiky leaves and towering flower stalk that can reach heights of up to 30 feet. Native to Mexico, this hardy plant is celebrated for its adaptability to arid environments and its ability to produce a spectacular bloom just once in its lifetime, typically after several decades. Its versatility extends beyond ornamental use, as it has been traditionally utilized for its fibers, sweet sap, and medicinal properties.

The genus of more than 200 species of rosette-forming, mostly monocarpic, or sometimes perennial succulents from the desert and mountainous regions of the Americas. The most popular Agave is the Century Plant, so-called because of the mistaken belief that it flowers only once every 100 years. There are two colorful varietis - Agava americana marginata (green leaves edged with yellow) and Agava americana mediopicta (cream leaves edged with green). These plants produce leaves 3 or 4 feet long, and their size makes them unsuitable for an ordinary room. In winter watering this plant can be done once every 1-2 months, there is no need to mist the leaves.

The Tuberose grows in elongated spikes up to 45 cm (18 in) long that produce clusters of fragrant waxy white flowers that bloom from the bottom towards the top of the spike. It has long, bright green leaves clustered at the base of the plant and smaller, clasping leaves along the stem.

Tuberose may grow wild in Mexico and surrounding countries, but the cultivation of tuberose is usually in Morocco, the Comores Islands, France, Hawaii, South Africa, India, and China.

Long-lasting as a cut flower in water (with lots of changes.)Most flowers begin to lose their scent when they are picked. Not so with tuberose, like jasmine, the heady floral scent continues to produce itself. In Ayurvedic medicine, attars are held in high esteem not only for their exquisite fragrance, but their healing properties. Tuberose is known to improve one's capacity for emotional depth.

See Article about Polianthes tuberosa.

Tequila Agave, Century Plant. Agave tequilana, commonly called blue agave (agave azul) or tequila agave, is an agave plant that is an important economic product of Jalisco, Mexico, due to its role as the base ingredient of tequila, a popular distilled beverage. The high production of sugars, mostly fructose, in the core of the plant is the main characteristic that makes it suitable for the preparation of alcoholic beverages. Great addition to cactus - rock gardens - ethno-botanical collections. Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping. Grows fairly fast in summer if provided with extra water.