Colletia hystrix

This variable, woody, aromatic shrub grows from 5 to 10 feet tall. It is native to South America. The very hardy Colletia hystrix needs full sun or semi-shade and moderate water. It is a very hardy plant and can tolerate cold zones down to the lower 30's F for short periods of time.

With regard to pot growing in a cold region, it is possible to keep the shrub in a container and transport it indoors when frost threatens. Keep in mind there are a few things your Colletia hystrix will need to thrive in this environment. First, you will need a container with a drainage hole in the bottom and use potting soil that is well-draining. Secondly, during colder months, you'll need to keep an eye on moisture levels and water when the soil is dry. Colder temperatures can drain the soil faster so be sure to water more frequently. Additionally, if the container is in a sunny location, you may need to water more regularly. Finally, protect the plant from the wind and temperatures below 50F.

By following these simple steps, you can easily keep your Colletia hystrix growing strong in cold regions. With its unique spiny foliage, sweetly fragrant flowers, and cold hardiness, it is a beautiful addition to any landscape.

Colletia paradoxa, Colletia cruciata

Commiphora abyssinica

Myrrh trees (Commiphora abyssinica) are easily recognized for the fact that they typically grow 5 to 10 ft tall and have very spiny and/or thorny branches. The leaves are grey-green and the flowers are usually cream and small. The flowers develop into fruit that contains 3 seeds, have a strong fragrance, and have a yellowish-brown color. Myrrh trees prefer full sun and moderate water, and are hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.

This plant is well known for its usage in ethnomedical practices, such as its use as an antiseptic to treat wounds, or as an aromatherapy aid to relieve stress. It is also helpful in relieving respiratory problems and said to stimulate the libido. Myrrh is often found in natural products, ranging from incense sticks to toothpaste.

For growing myrrh trees in cold regions, it is best to plant them in large pots. The soil should be well draining, and the pot should have drainage holes in the bottom. When watering, make sure to water the plants deeply, but not too often. If watering is necessary, wait until the top inch of soil is dry. Fertilizing the soil twice a year with a balanced liquid fertilizer is recommended. Additionally, this species does well in warmer temperatures, so if possible, keep it in a warm spot indoors during the winter months.

Myrrh is referred to in the Bible. Myrrh was used as a wine preservative in the ancient world. It was used by Egyptians in embalming mixtures. It was also used as an aromatic for perfumes, funerals, and insect repellents.

Commiphora sp.

Commiphora is a genus of flowering plants. It includes about 185 species of trees and shrubs, often armed or thorny.

Species and varieties:

Commiphora abyssinica

Commiphora capensis

Commiphora gileadensis

Commiphora dulcis

Commiphora humbertii

Commiphora kraeuseliana

Commiphora mollis - Velvet Commiphora, Velvet(-leaved) Corkwood.

Commiphora mossambicensis

Commiphora orbicularis

Commiphora ornifolia

Commiphora simplicifolia

Conostylis aculeata

The flower heads of Conostylis aculeata are often followed by long, thin seed-pods and during their flowering season from late winter to late spring, the shrub is covered in dainty blooms of sunny yellow and white.

Growing up to 2-5 feet, Prickly Conostylis is a small shrub with attractive foliage and is popular for rockeries or informal hedges, even adding a delightful element to rock walls. Recommended for warm climates, it prefers sun to semi-shade and moderate watering. Additionally, these plants are frost hardy and respond well to an occasional prune, making them great for cold climate regions like USDA Zone 9-11.

Prickly Conostylis is a hardy plant and requires minimal maintenance. It prefers soils which are well-draining and can cope with dry spells if there is adequate sunlight and protection from the wind. Growers should not hesitate to use light mulch to protect its root system and to retain moisture. Watering in during the spring and summer season is recommended during times of drought. The plant also needs to be pruned every few years to keep its neat and tidy.

In regions with cooler climates, the best way to grow Prickly Conostylis is in a pot, as this will provide better protection against cold weather conditions. When planting the shrub in a pot, the grower should make sure to choose one that is evenly sized and with drainage holes at the bottom. Additionally, it should be planted in a spot that gets an adequate amount of sunlight. To get the most out of its flowering potential, the pot should also be watered regularly and soil should be checked periodically to ensure it is not becoming overly dry. In colder areas, where temperatures are more likely to drop well below freezing, the pot should be covered with a layer of mulch in the winter to protect the plant roots and prevent damage. Re-potting every two to three years is also recommended as this will help keep the plant healthy and robust.