Garden Blog - Top Tropicals
Need more ideas for compact and showy flowering trees? Try Rainbow Cassias
Rainbow cassia - Cassia Marginata.
- ♦️ Some hybrid cassias have spectacular color combinations and are called Rainbow Cassias.
- ♦️ We mentioned earlier some sunny, yellow-flowering cassias: Senna surattensis (Cassia glauca) - Scrambled Egg Bush, and Cassia siamea - Kassod Tree.
- ♦️ Other cassias can be pink or with multi-color flower combination, so-called Rainbow cassias (which are hybrids between yellow and pink cassias):
- ♦️ Cassia trees are compact, fast growing, tolerant to drought and poor soils, free-flowering and relatively cold hardy. Always a great choice!
Cassia grandis - Red Cassia
Cassia javanica - Apple Blossom Tree
Cassia marginata - Rainbow Shower Tree
Cassia roxburghii - Ceylon Senna
Cassia x nodosa - Pink Shower, Appleblossom.
❓ What cassias do you have in your garden? Share photos in comments👇
🎥 Rainbow cassia - Cassia Marginata.
🛒 Shop showy Cassia trees
#Butterfly_Plants #Trees
🏵 TopTropicals
Date:
Butterfly Bush: Fast, Pretty, Low Maintenance...
Five unbeatable reasons to plant Butterfly Cassia
Q: I am trying to find some easy flowering shrub to screen the ugly corner of my neighbor's yard, can you suggest something fast growing and pretty?
A: One of our favorite flowering shrubs in Florida is the Cassia bicapsularis, commonly known as Scrambled Egg Bush or Butterfly Bush. It is one of the most desirable plants for the southern landscape. It has all the benefits any gardener may dream of, whether a beginner or an expert:
1. Very fast growing, can screen unwanted views and create a beautiful flowering hedge. Cassia bicapsularis is known for its rapid growth, making it an excellent choice for quickly transforming an unsightly corner into a vibrant and lush area. Its dense foliage and attractive yellow blooms add both beauty and privacy to your outdoor space.
2. Easy to grow, not fussy about soil or water, drought and flood tolerant, cold tolerant. Butterfly Bush is incredibly adaptable and resilient. It thrives in a variety of soil types, is not demanding when it comes to water, and can withstand both drought and occasional flooding. Additionally, it is cold tolerant and can withstand occasional frosts once established.
3. Blooms for many months, featuring especially in winter flowers from Fall to spring. Very pretty, large "sunny" flowers resembling bright yellow butterflies, hence the name. It is a generous bloomer, gracing your garden with vibrant yellow flowers for an extended period, particularly from fall to spring. The large, sunny blooms not only add visual appeal but also attract pollinators, enhancing the ecological balance of your garden.
4. Attracts lots of butterflies. As the common name suggests, the Butterfly Bush is a magnet for butterflies. If you enjoy the presence of these beautiful winged creatures in your garden, planting Cassia bicapsularis is an excellent way to encourage and support butterfly populations.
5. Low maintenance. Butterfly Bush can be trimmed and controlled at the desired shape if needed, but if you have room for a big bush in a full sun area - just let it go and it will form a nice dense bush without any pruning: this shrub is a low-maintenance delight. While it can be pruned and shaped according to your preferences, it also flourishes when left to grow naturally. Its ability to form a dense and attractive bush without constant pruning makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a fuss-free gardening experience.
If you're looking for a fast-growing, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing solution to screen an unsightly corner, Cassia bicapsularis is an unbeatable choice. It ticks all the boxes for a beautiful and resilient flowering shrub in the southern landscape.
"...Without a doubt, Butterfly Cassia became one of my favorite plants during my visit to Florida for Christmas a few years ago. I only wish I could have taken it back home with me to Latvia. If only my windowsill hadn't already reached its greenhouse capacity!.." - Alex Butova.
To see more options for flowering shrubs, check out the reference chart Hedges with Benefits Chart.
Would you like some Scrambled Eggs? Scrambled Egg Bush is a burst of sunshine, this splash of gold blooms on and on
Senna surattensis (Cassia glauca) - Scrambled Egg Bush
Senna surattensis (Cassia glauca) - Scrambled Egg Bush
Senna surattensis (Cassia glauca) - Scrambled Egg Bush
Senna surattensis (Cassia glauca) - Scrambled Egg Bush
- 🌞 Senna surattensis (Cassia glauca) - Scrambled Egg Bush - produces vibrant, sunny yellow flowers that resemble scrambled eggs, adding a cheerful touch to your garden.
- 🌞 Long blooming season: flowers profusely throughout much of the year.
- 🌞 Compact: grows into a manageable, medium-sized shrub, perfect for smaller gardens or as a stunning focal point.
- 🌞 Low maintenance: easy to care for and requires minimal attention, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- 🌞 Drought tolerant: thrives in dry conditions once established, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- 🌞 Attracts Pollinators: draws bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, enhancing garden biodiversity.
- 🌞 Versatile: can be used as a standalone specimen, hedge, or in mixed borders for added interest.
- 🌞 Soil Improvement: enhances soil quality through nitrogen fixation, benefiting nearby plants.
- 🌞 Hardy and resilient: adapts well to cool winter, heat and poor soil.
- 🌞 Evergreen: retains its green leaves all year round, providing constant coverage and aesthetic appeal.
🛒 Order Scrambled Egg Bush
#Butterfly_Plants #Hedges_with_benefits
🏵 TopTropicals
Date:
Small flowering tree for community
Q: Hi, I live on the east coast near West Palm, but I see you ship your plants. My HOA allows for Yellow Tabebuia species and I'm looking for two or three smaller trees that can fit in my front yard in smaller spaces. Ideally looking for trees that would stay under 20' in height, but preferably even smaller. Can you tell me the average height and spread of the Dwarf Golden Tabebuia or Silver Trumpet trees?
A: The Yellow Tabebuia - Tabebuia caraiba is a very good choice for a small yard. It grows about
20 ft average size, 7-10 ft wide. Sometimes taller, but it is slow growing
and it will take many-many years to grow to a bigger size. It is a spectacular
tree when in bloom, however, keep in mind that it is not very wind
resistant; although it is not difficult to secure it back being a small tree. Another
Tabebuia which is even more compact tree, has stronger root system and is
more wind resistant:
Tabebuia chrysotricha - Dwarf Golden Tabebuia
Also some other interesting choices:
Radermachera Kunming - Dwarf Tree Jasmine
Senna
polyphylla - Bahamas Cassia, Desert Cassia
Cordia
sebestena - Scarlet Geiger tree
See full list of compact small trees
Tabebuia chrysotricha - Dwarf Golden Tabebuia
Radermachera Kunming - Dwarf Tree Jasmine
Senna polyphylla - Bahamas Cassia, Desert Cassia
What is a perfect shade tree with flower benefits? Discover the sunny Kassod Tree
Cassia siamea - Kassod Tree (Siamese Senna)
Cassia siamea - Kassod Tree (Siamese Senna)
Cassia siamea - Kassod Tree (Siamese Senna)
- 🟡 Cassia siamea - Kassod Tree (Siamese Senna) is a remarkable subtropical tree known for several special features:
- 🟡 Fast Growing, making it an excellent choice for quick shade and ornamental use.
- 🟡 Bright yellow flowers that bloom in clusters, adding a vibrant splash of color.
- 🟡 Evergreen foliage: lush green leaves year-round, providing continuous beauty and shade.
- 🟡 Hardy: highly resilient and can thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions, including poor soils and dry climates. Tolerates both light frost and summer heat.
- 🟡 Low maintenance, easy care, not messy, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- 🟡 Nitrogen fixation: Improves soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, benefiting surrounding plants and enhancing garden productivity.
- 🟡 Medicinal use: herbal medicine (laxative properties and to treat various ailments).
- 🟡 Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity and ecosystem health 🐞🐝
- 🟡 Shade provider: Ideal for creating shaded areas in gardens and landscapes, contributing to a cooler environment during hot weather.
🛒 Add shade and color to your garden with Kassod Tree
#Butterfly_Plants #Trees
🏵 TopTropicals
Date:
Shade
Tree Discount Program
How to reduce an electric bill and energy costs?
Photo above: Cassia fistula - Golden Shower Tree - one of the most popular trees. This all time favorite is fast growing and elegant.
Q: How to reduce an electric bill and energy costs?
A: This summer is expected to be hot. And the next summer... and next... Want to reduce your electric bill and energy costs? There is an excellent solution: plant a shade tree! Once fully grown, these trees will help keep your house cooler and lower your energy expenses.
Today we are offering a special discount you can use for purchasing
trees that will keep your homes cooler in Summer and gardens warmer in Winter!
Check out Fast
Growing Shade Trees, as well as other flowering trees and fruit trees and use discount below:
GETSHADE
Your savings with this code:
5% off orders $100+
15% off orders $150+
20% off orders $200+
Excluding S/H. Excluding 15 gal material. Exp. 6-12-24
Photo above: Tabebuia - spectacular winter bloomer.
Photo above: Bauhinia blakeana - Hong Kong Orchid Tree. The most beautiful of all orchid trees.
Photo above: Mango trees now. Many varieties are vigorous, large trees.
Photo above: Cattley Guava Tree is an elegant solution for small spaces. Red Button French Kiss Ginger goes well with it!
Date:
Cat
Zodiac:
Capricorn Cats 12/22-1/19
By Alex Butova, the Witch of Herbs and Cats
The astrological sign of a cat can be determined by either their date of birth or adoption, as adoption is often considered a second birth for cats. With this information, one can discover the astrological traits that describe the cat, such as their independence, diva-like tendencies, sense of humor, intelligence, and more. Additionally, it's also important to consider the astrological relationship between cats and plants...
The Capricorn cat is a busy feline. They are known for climbing curtains
and scaling ladders in the garden with ease. No fear of heights here! As
they age, Capricorn cats become wise and practical, they are cautious and
consider their options before acting impulsively. It is easy to see the wheels
turning in their head when they are faced with problems. Capricorn cats take
daily necessities like grooming and litter box etiquette seriously. They are
skilled hunters, companions, bodyguards, nurses, and box-inspectors, and they
love their jobs. Similar to Capricorn humans, Capricorn cats have a love for
plants that grow outdoors in gardens or patios...
CONTINUE READING>>
Find out the best plants for a Capricorn Cat...
Plant Horoscope for Humans: Capricorn
Date:
PeopleCats of TopTropicals. Cat of the Day: Story of Raja, Part 2
Everybody was touched by the tragic story of Raja - the kitten Kristi rescued from the tough street
challanges and gave her a chance for Life...
Today we continue this story. And although it is a sad one, there will be a
happy ending, and there will be always lessons we learn from the experience
of taking care of our loved once.
Raja taught us to never let our disabilities define what we can and can't
do. She taught us that every live creature deserves to know what love, a warm
home, and a family means. She taught us resilience, determination and
perseverance. Sometimes goodbye is not always an end, but a possible new beginning
with new lessons learned...
CONTINUE READING >>
In the photo: Raja's Rainbow Cassia
TopTropicals PeopleCat Club and Zoo
Thank you for supporting us in helping PeopleCat Community!
Make
your kind donation today and receive a surprise gift from us! Every little
bit helps. Thank you and God bless you and your pets!
Date:
Pisces Zodiac lucky plants
Pisces- 2/19 -
3/20. As a WATER sign ruled by both Jupiter and Moon (and Neptune, that
was not discovered until 1846, after the plant correspondences were
established; Neptune is considered a "higher octave" of the Moon), Pisces plants are
often large but hard to find, and may grow near the ocean. The most healing
plants for Pisces are those that strengthen the immune system or have an
antibacterial effect. Pisces plants may also catalyze expanded states of awareness
and be helpful in dream work.
Herbs connected to Pisces are ruled by its former ruler, the Moon
(Neptune, the current ruler, was not discovered until 1846, after the plant
correspondences were established; Neptune is considered a “higher octave†of
the Moon). Diseases of Pisces have traditionally included psychotic disorders,
various forms of substance addiction, lung diseases such as tuberculosis, and
ailments of the foot; contemporary herbalists also add immune system
diseases. Pisces is strengthened by rosemary's ability to promote an aura of
centered grounding. This protective herb helps strengthen boundaries and cultivate a
closer connection to the physical realm.
Pisces Zodiac
lucky plants: Water lily, Lotus, Clematis, Wisteria, Lisianthus, Brunfelsia, Echinacea, English Lavender, Rosemary, Coconut palm, Cranberry, Clove, Coccoloba, Sea Oats, Mangroves, Ochrosia, Aquatic plants, Colocasia, Alocasia, Aralia, Ficus trees, Banyan, Peepal, Banana, Mango, Mimosa, Olive, Anise, Vilca and Yopo, Kava-kava, Nutmeg, Anthuriums, Eucalyptus, Bauhinia,
Clusia, Caesalpinia, Callistemon, Bucida, Cassia fistula, Cordia, Calabash, Lipstick palm, Delonix, Elaeocarpus, Erythrina, Fatsia, Guaiacum, Mahoe, Koelreuteria, Kopsia, Macaranga, Pandanus, Peltophorum, Psychotria, Banesteriopsis, Tabebuia.
For other signs information, see Plant Horoscope Page.
How to attract more butterflies to your garden?
Monarch Butterfly
Milkweed
Odontonema
Giant Milkweed
Attracting butterflies to your garden can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you create a butterfly-friendly environment.
- 💐 Choose the right plants: butterflies are attracted to nectar-producing flowers such as odontonemas.
- 💐 Plant lots of bright flowers, especially of yellow and pink colors like some cassias which seem to be the pleasant to butterfly's eye.
- 💐 Use a variety of flowers to attract different species of butterflies. Check the list of butterfly-attracting tropical plants.
- 💐 Provide food for caterpillars: butterflies lay their eggs on specific host plants that caterpillars will eat. For example, monarch butterflies lay their eggs on milkweed. Passion flower (Passiflora) and Aristolochia that we introduced earlier, are also great butterfly hosts, but be prepared to sacrifice some leaves!
- 💐 Provide a water source: butterflies need a source of water to drink from. A shallow dish or birdbath with rocks in it will provide a place for butterflies to rest and drink.
- 💐 Avoid using pesticides: they can harm butterflies and other beneficial insects. Try using natural methods to control pests in your garden.
- 💐 Create a sunny spot: butterflies love warm, sunny spots. Plant your butterfly garden in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
- 💐 Add a butterfly house to provide shelter for butterflies during bad weather and at night.
📸 Milkweed, Odontonema, Giant Milkweed
🛒 Shop Butterfly Garden
#Butterfly_Plants
🏵 TopTropicals