Stelechocarpus burahol

Stelechocarpus burahol is native to Southeast Asia and is also referred to as Burahol. It is a big tree and can grow up to taller than 20 feet, while a smaller variety is between 10-20 feet. It requires full sun or semi-shade and regular to moderate water. The flowers are yellow and orange and fragrant.

The fruit of the tree is edible and health benefits include Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron and protein. The tree can produce up to 50-100 fruits annually. The USDA Hardiness Zone is 9-11. The tree grows best in a pot in cold regions.

The flesh is perfect for making desserts and sweets, while the peel can be used in jams, jellies, and chutneys. The pulp of the fruit is medicinal and can be used for controlling cholesterol levels, and for treating digestive problems.

Stelechocarpus cauliflorus, Sageraea cauliflora

Stemmadenia grandiflora, Tabernaemontana grandiflora

The plant originates in Central America and is a large shrub reaching a height of 5-10 feet tall.

It can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11 and needs to be planted in full sun for optimum growth. However, some protection from direct sun is needed in very hot climates. The Wedding Tree needs to be kept in moist conditions and is considered moderately drought-tolerant once established. It should be watered regularly, but avoid over watering or its roots could rot.

The flower on the Wedding Tree is very unique and particularly attractive to both butterflies and hummingbirds. The blossoms have a bell shape and tip upward at the end. They are a creamy-yellow to orange color and are strongly fragrant. The blooms appear throughout the summer making this a real show stopper in any garden.

In areas with colder climates, the Wedding Tree can be grown in a pot and brought inside in the winter. It can be placed outside in bright light during the spring, summer and fall and should be brought inside well before the freezing temperatures hit. While indoors, the plant should not be placed in direct sunlight and should be kept away from drafts. It should also be kept moist and fertilized every two to three weeks.

Overall, Stemmadenia grandiflora (Wedding Tree) is a unique, vibrant and beautiful flowering shrub. With proper care and maintenance, it will bring years of enjoyment with its brightly colored flowers and fragrant scent. It is the perfect addition to any garden or outdoor space and has the added benefit of attracting beneficial wildlife such as butterflies and hummingbirds.

Stephania erecta

Very unusual caudex plant, with a stem swollen like a round ball. Sprouts in spring in a nice fine vine with round leaves and yellowish flowers. Prefers moderate water and filtered light. Can be grown as a unique bonsai plant on your desktop or window sill. Foliage dies back in winter, when the watering should be reduced or stopped.

Sterculia lanceifolia, Sterculia roxburghii

This small tree is native to Indo-China, and is tolerant of a variety of environmental conditions. It is a deciduous species, growing to a height of 10-20 ft and producing yellow to orange flowers in springtime. Normally found in USDA zones 9-11 both in warm and cold climates, Sterculia lanceifolia (Lanceleaf Sterculia) requires full sunlight and protection from strong winds. It has a moderate drought tolerance when planted in a sandy soil and requires regular water when planted in heavy clay, during both the summer and winter months. This particular species can adapt to most soil types.

Sterculia lanceifolia is a great choice for gardens and landscapes, as it does not require too much pruning or maintenance. Additionally, it can be grown in containers so long as its pot has ample drainage holes. During winter months, Sterculia lanceifolia should be kept in a warm area, such as sheltered indoors or a greenhouse.

This plant is valued not only for its hardiness and show of color; it also produces edible fruits which are actually healthy and nutritious. The fruit is oval in shape and deep maroon in color. Inside, the seed has an edible kernel which is rich in fatty acids, minerals, as well as vitamins. In traditional medicinal remedies, it is used to treat fever, colds, and gastrointestinal issues. The fruits can be also picked and eaten fresh or dried and served with porridge, rice, and other dishes. It can produce multiple fruits per season.

Health benefits aside, the fruits of Sterculia lanceifolia are valued for their nutty flavor. Each fruit usually contains one or two seeds, which can be eaten along with the pulp or extracted to be used as a crunchy topping on salads or desserts. It is also a popular ingredient in desserts from South East Asia.