Pachypodium namaquanum

Pachypodium namaquanum is a large shrub or small tree native to Namibia. It grows 5-10 ft tall and can reach up to 20 ft with a caudex. It is typically found in sandy soils and thrives in full sun and dry conditions. It is cold hardy down to 30°F and is drought-resistant. It can be grown outdoors in USDA Zones 9-11.

This species is easily recognizable due to its unbranched, cylindrical stems, which may branch near the base or have shorter branches near the apex. It has a thick base with thorny spines along the top half and green-grey, velvety leaves in a rosette formation. The leaves have wavy, entire margins, and the flowers, which appear from July to September, are tubular with red interiors and yellow-green exteriors.

To care for Pachypodium namaquanum, provide it with adequate sunlight and well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering as the roots are sensitive to rot, but increase watering during the summer months. If planted in a pot, it can be brought indoors during colder months and placed in a sunny spot with additional humidity. To protect the plant from winter cold, keep the soil dry and cover the roots with mulch or use a cold frame or fleece wrap around the caudex.

Pachypodium namaquanum is listed as a Near Threatened species according to the southern African Plant Red Data List. It also contains poisonous alkaloids and its sap is used for arrow poisons. When the spines that arise from the stem are stroked, the plant produces a series of clicking sounds that supposedly mimics the clicks of the Nama language - one of languages spoken in Namibia.

In Nama folklore, Pachypodium namaquanum is revered as the "halfmens," believed to be half human and half plant. The legend states that a tribe once occupied a more forgiving part of southern Namibia and was driven southwards after a long and bloody conflict. Eventually, its members found themselves fleeing to the Richtersveld, a forsaken mountain desert in the North of Namibia with a fiercely broken landscape that must have been created by the gods in a moment of rage. . Overcome by grief and longing for their homeland, a few among the tribe paused to gaze back for the last time. The gods took pity on these souls and turned them into half humans or halfmens in order to comfort them with a distant view of their lost homeland for eternity. These trees are said to be mistaken for humans, especially when seen in groups of adults and young ones.

Parameria barbata

Parameria barbatais a fast-growing vine native to southeast Asia known for its irritating properties, as well as its ethnomedical applications. It grows best in full sun and moderate water in USDA zones 9-11. It can reach up to 10m tall and has pale gray stems with branchlets that are shortly hairy when young. The corolla of Parameria is reddish to white

Parameria typically blooms in the summer months, with flowers that are white or off-white. The fruit follows between October and December, maturing to a size of just over 1/2 inch. When grown in cold regions, Parameria is best suited to being grown in a pot. It prefers moist, yet well-draining soil and should be checked regularly for pests and diseases. Additionally, if Parameria is grown in a pot, the size of the pot should be large enough to accommodate the plant'âs growth, and it should be watered on a regular basis. For maximum growth, Parameria should be fertilized at least twice per year with a balanced fertilizer.

Periploca aphylla

Phacelia campanularia

Phacelia campanularia is found in rocky slopes and sandy washes in California, up to 6,000 ft altitude. This small shrub grows between 2-5 ft tall, with an upright, wiry, branching habit. It is a drought tolerant plant and will tolerate periods of no water if the soil is well drained.

This California native prefers a location in full sun but can tolerate part shade for partial day. Once established, it needs moderate water. The flowers are a beautiful gentian blue and range from deep blue to lavender and purple. In mild climates, it may even flower year round. The flowers are quite attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds.

Phacelia campanularia can be grown outdoors in USDA Zone 9-11. Gardeners in colder regions may try growing it in a container near a sunny wall. Provide the bell-flowered plant water and protection from extreme temperatures to keep it blooming properly.

It is a very attractive, easy-care plant and can be an excellent addition to a planting bed or rockery. Butterfly, bee, and hummingbird enthusiasts will appreciate the beauty of this drought tolerant plant.

Phaleria clerodendron

A stunning, small tree or large shrub that is very rare in home cultivation, a real gem. It is a bushy rainforest plant with dark glossy green leaves to 18" long. Spectacular white, strongly pineapple scented, tubular flowers occur on the trunk and larger branches with the onset of rain. The scent of masses of flowers permeates through the garden. A fast growing species in a moist site with bright or filtered light. Tolerates moist soils. Fruit eating birds relish the glossy fruit. The flesh of the fruit is stringy and reputed to be poisonous to humans. The plant generally looses its leaves and looks crummy in cold weather. A subtropical alternative would be P. chermsideana.