Cyrtosperma sp.

Cyrtosperma is a semiaquatic aroid. The stalks have spiny, and the large lobed leaves are green. Perfect for greenhouse culture. Suitable for bogs and water gardens. Cyrtosperma used to be cultivated as a food crop in a manner similar to Taro (Colocasia)The leaves are used as food wrapings or plate; whereas, the stem, tuber, is cooked and eaten in many ways.

This genus is very sensitive to cool weather and must be protected from even the cooler days when the temperature falls to around 60F with wind.

Araceae contain crystals of calcium oxalate and proteolytic enzyme, which are often cited as causing the intense irritation experienced when handling or consuming the raw plant tissue of many genera in the family.

Cyrtostachys renda, Cyrtostachys lakka

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Cyrtostachys renda (Red Lipstick Palm) is a stunning feather palm that is originally from Malaysia but has been introduced to tropical areas such as Costa Rica and Puerto Rico. It is known for its brilliantly red trunk, which is hard to find.

The top portion of the trunk should be kept moist or slightly dry, while the bottom part should be kept moist. It is a moderately fast grower and can reach a height of 10-20 feet within 10 years if conditions are favorable. In USDA zones 10-11, it can be planted outdoors in a spot that receives plenty of direct sunlight, although it can tolerate partial shade. However, it is important to avoid planting it near a foundation as the palm may lift the foundation. If it is grown close to the seaside, additional water may be required as it is a salt-tolerant plant.

Sealing Wax Palm seeds are very slow to germinate, taking up to a year. Young seedlings grow slowly, but once the root system reaches a 3-gallon size container, the trunk will start turning red. This process may take another year or two, depending on conditions.

This palm requires a good overhead light, especially when grown indoors, and constant warmth. It is a cold-sensitive plant and for vigorous growth, it must be kept above 50F. The soil should be rich, moist and loamy, and the plant should be fed monthly with a balanced plant food.

Providing a bright light, the Red Lipstick Palm can be a wonderful indoor plant and a gem of any plant collection. It is definitely worth the effort to grow this beauty!

Deplanchea sp.

Deplanchea sp. (Golden Bouquet) is a native of North Queensland, Malaya and a spectacular tree that is reasonably easy to care for when grown in full sun or semi-shade and given regular water. It is a big tree usually taller than 20 feet and has small orange and yellow flowers. These flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds and can bloom all year when grown in the correct environment.

In the warmest climates, the Golden Bouquet will be hardy to USDA Zone 10-11, however in colder regions it needs to be grown in a pot and indoors or in a greenhouse in winter. In these areas, the tree should be given full sun and sheltered from cold winds. It's important to maintain regular watering, as the plant can not survive over-watering or being kept dry.

In order for the tree to remain healthy, it needs to be provided with nutrient rich soil and prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (a pH of 6.5 is ideal). When potting the tree, it's important to use a large enough container to accommodate the roots and to ensure that the pot has adequate drainage holes. In order to maintain a healthy root system, repotting is recommended every 1-2 years.

In addition, the Golden Bouquet is considered to be fairly low maintenance, although some pruning may be necessary during spring to ensure that the tree maintains its attractive shape. If grown outdoors or in a container, it's important to withold fertilizer during the winter months to avoid stress to the plant.

Overall, Deplanchea sp. (Golden Bouquet) is a stunning and eye-catching plant that is sure to be a focal point in any garden. With its cheerful yellow and orange flowers, it provides an oasis of beauty and vibrancy even on the darkest days. With the right care, it can make a magnificent addition to any outdoor space.

Desmos chinensis

This is a spreading shrub that likes shady places and may develop into a higher climber. The flowers open between April and July. Young flowers are green and inconspicuous. Only mature yellow flowers have strong lemon-like fruity scent can be detected at a distance, especially during the evenings. When the flower fades, the petals turn to rusty-red and then drop. Desmos chinensis is a better choice for those with limited space.

Desmos sp.

Desmos sp. (Red Ylang-Ylang) is very rare species of Desmos. Produces a stunning and vibrant flowering plant native to Thailand. It produces fragrant, orange to red blooms, which are shaped similarly to those of Desmos chinensis. Its young leaves also boast a bright red-orange hue. This particular species of Desmos has an intense, lemon-candy scent, making it a lovely addition to any garden or indoor space.

Desmos sp. can grow to a height of 10 ft in the form of a large shrub, or 5 ft as a small shrub. It prefers to be positioned in semi-shade or full shade and will require regular watering to reach its optimal growth. Its display of blooms will reward any green-thumbed gardener with its beautiful fragrant flowers. To ensure the continual growth of the plant, dead leaves and petals must always be removed.

Due to Desmos sp. being a tropical plant, it cannot survive temperatures below 55°F. If located in a colder climate, ensure it is grown indoors and in a pot, keeping it away from any risk of frost. To guarantee optimal health for your Desmos sp., provide it with sufficient day-to-night temperature differences, bright but indirect light, regular misting, and plenty of water. If the pot can be warmed from underneath, that will give the plant additional warmth and ensure better results. It is also beneficial to use some mulch to assist in keeping the soil moist and to regulate temperature during colder months.

To encourage new blooms, always deadhead spent flowers, and prune away any dead or damaged branches.