Musa velutina

It is a large shrub, reaching up to five and ten feet tall, that typically thrives in tropical climates. Its bright pink flowers, which bloom during the summer months, make it a highly sought-after ornamental plant.

Musa velutina is a plant native to India. This large shrub will grow anywhere from five to ten feet tall and enjoys full sun or semi-shade with regular water. Additionally, it requires a temperature of at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning it is hardy in USDA Zones 10 and 11.

Musa velutina is grown for both its beauty and its edible fruit. The plant's clusters of bright pink flowers add a splash of color to a garden, and its fruit, which matures in autumn, are edible and sweet. The fruits are small, oval-shaped, and generally weigh less than half a pound. They can be eaten raw or cooked, and can also be used to make jam and other types of preserves.

This plant is not only edible, but also contains a number of healthy benefits. The fruits are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals, and are low in fats and calories. Additionally, they provide a substantial amount of vitamin C and essential nutrients, such as potassium, magnesium and iron.

In terms of producing fruit, Musa velutina is quite prolific. One plant can produce up to fifty fruits in a single growing season with proper care. To ensure that this plant produces a good crop of fruit, they should be planted in well-draining soil and fertilized once every two weeks. In regions with colder climates, this plant can also be grown in a pot, as long as it is kept in a location where it can receive enough sunlight to flower and fruit.

Myristica fragrans

Nutmeg is an evergreen tropical tree that can grow up to 65 feet tall. Its fruit is similar to an apricot, and when fully mature, it splits into two halves and exposes a crimson-colored edible pulp surrounding a single seed, the nutmeg. After being harvested, the nutmegs are dried gradually in the sun and turned twice daily for a period of six to eight weeks. They become grayish-brown ovals with furrowed surfaces about 1-1.5 inches long when dried. Nutmeg seeds possess a pleasant fragrance and slightly warm taste, making it a widely used spice. It is often used to flavor different baked goods, meats, sausages, sauces, vegetables, and even eggnog.

The common name nutmeg is sometimes used to refer to other fruits or seeds too. For instance, Jamaica nutmeg is derived from Monodora myristica, the Brazilian nutmeg is from Cryptocarya moschata, the Peruvian nutmeg is from Laurelia aromatica, the Madagaskar nutmeg is from Ravensara aromatica and the California nutmeg is from Torreya californica.

Myristica fragrans, the original nutmeg-producing tree needs full sun, but can also manage in semi-shady places. It requires regular watering for optimum growth. This plant not only has a pleasant scent but is also used for ethnomedical purposes. Each tree can produce up to 1.5kg of nutmeg annually. It grows in USDA zones 10-11 and should be kept at temperatures above 55F. Keep a regular watering schedule and allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Nutrients can be provided every few months using a mild liquid fertilizer. In winter, reduce water, and if temperatures drop tremendously, put the pot inside or cover it with a protective coating.

Nephelium lappaceum, Euphoria nephelium, Dimocarpus crinita

Ruby red and covered with fine green-tipped hairs, the rambutan is one of the most attractive fruits and also one of the most delicious when eaten at the peak of ripeness between May and September when it is most plentiful. A knife is used to slit the skin around the middle, after which it opens easily and the flesh can be eaten with a fork as a memorable after-meal treat. It is beginning to appear in specialty markets. It is grown in the same way as Litchi. The fruit is the white fleshy aril surrounding the single seed. It is sweet and acid and can be eaten raw or stewed. The seed has to be started in high humidity and good warmth in a sandy soil mix kept evenly moist. When germination occurs (and this may take many weeks) and green growth shows, transplant the plant to a pot of rich soil. Keep the seedling evenly moist and warm. The rambutan is a leafy branching plant that makes a distinctive accent. Although you might have to search for the fruit, it is worth the time.

Osmoxylon lineare, Boerlagiodendron lineare

USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map

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Osmoxylon lineare, or Miagos bush, is a small shrub native to Southeast Asia and the Philippines, with a mature height of about 2-5 ft. It is highly ornamental with striking foliage and an exotic, Japanese bamboo-like look. This bushy plant is quite hardy, requiring little care and easily growing indoors in containers.

When it comes to proper care, though, Osmoxylon lineare likes a bit more attention as it demands regular moisture and enjoys warmth. Growers should keep the soil around the plant lightly moist, avoiding water log and floods. As for the exposure to light, it can tolerate a wide range, ranging from full sun to semi-shade. Moreover, it should be grown at a temperature of above 55F and be shielded from cold temperatures when possible. Should a frost come though, a mature plant may tolerate short exposures of up to 30s F with some minor damage. The plant has hardiness zones of 10-11 in the USDA Hardiness Zones.

When it comes to planting, Osmoxylon lineare appreciates well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Choose a location with enough air circulation and protection from strong winds. A pot with sufficient size is important as well to allow for proper root growth. In cold regions, it is better to keep the pot on the indoor window or inside a greenhouse or similar protective structure.

Osmoxylon lineare can provide a stunning landscape look and accent to any garden or living room. With the right care and maintenance, it will provide many years of beauty for your home and showcase its exotic foliage in all its glory.

Osmoxylon novoguineense

This extremely rare plant has the largest leaf in Aralia family. The light green leaves are alternate, palmate compound. At the base the leaf gets wrinkled and creates a funny shape. Endangered species, there is a very small population left. It will trive best in filtered bright light, prefers moist soil and high humidity. In favorable conditions leaves can grow as large as 3-4 ft in diameter. Very ornamental plant, can be grown as a house plant or in a greenhouse. Ultra tropical, low cold tolerance. Related plants - more common species Osmoxylon lineare, Osmoxylon mariannense.