The most asked-about tree in the Sunshine State: Bauhinia
Purple Orchid tree - Bauhinia purpurea
🌸 The most asked-about tree in the Sunshine State: Bauhinia
🌸 If you visit Florida in winter, chances are you will notice a tree covered in orchid-like flowers and wonder what it is. That tree is often an orchid tree, most commonly Bauhinia purpurea. It is fast growing, wide spreading, and blooms from late winter through spring, sometimes with a second round in summer. The flowers range from magenta to lavender, are lightly fragrant, and stand out even from a distance. The leaves are just as distinctive - split into two halves like butterfly wings, which is why these trees are also called butterfly trees.
🌸 Orchid trees are easygoing and practical. They thrive in full sun, tolerate many soil types as long as drainage is good, and need little water once established. Growth is quick, often 2–3 feet per year, making them excellent shade trees for hot climates. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, and in some cultures the buds and blossoms are used in cooking, while the bark has a long history in folk remedies. Beautiful, useful, and low maintenance, orchid trees are a perfect fit for Southern landscapes.
Sapodilla - Manilkara or Achras zapota, the Brown Sugar Fruit
🍊 How to make Sapodilla fruit profusely?
Sapodilla - Manilkara or Achras zapota), the Brown Sugar Fruit is a warm-climate evergreen fruit tree that can produce a lot of fruit once conditions are right. So why do so many sapodilla trees grow beautifully, flower heavily, and still refuse to set fruit?
Sapodilla Fruit Production - What Really Matters
1. 🌳 Choose the Right Tree
Grafted or air-layered trees fruit much sooner - typically in 1-2 years - and more reliably than seedlings, which may take 6–8+ years.
Some varieties are more profuse producers than others. For example, Silas Woods is virtually everbearing, Hasya is commercial prolific producer, Oxkutzcab (or Ox) -is also heavily productive (learn more about varieties).
2. ☀️ Environment: Heat, Sun & Water Balance
Temperature and Humidity
Excessive heat above 90F and low humidity can cause flowers to dry up and fall before setting fruit.
Solution: Provide filtered light or shade during the hottest part of the day to reduce heat stress on blossoms.
Water
Sapodillas are drought tolerant, but consistent moisture during flowering and fruit set improves fruit retention.
Avoid waterlogged conditions - soggy soil can stress roots and reduce yield.
Sun Exposure
Full sun is best for growth and flowering - but for hot climates, protection during peak afternoon heat helps reduce flower drop.
Young trees can also suffer sunburn.
3. Fertilization: Feed for Fruit, Not Just Foliage
Good nutrition is critical for flowers to turn into fruit. Apply a routine feed through the growing/flowering season - contolled-release (Green Magic) or liquid (Sunshine C-Cibus) both work.
Balanced fertilizer with trace elements like Boron (B), Molybdenum (Mo), Iron (Fe), and Copper (Cu) is essential for fruit set and development. Boron & Molybdenum deficiency as a frequent cause of flower/fruit drop in container-grown trees (nutrients get depleted quickly in pots).
Micro-nutrient sprays 2-3 times per year help improve fruit retention and quality. Some growers use sugar boosters (Sunshine Honey) or micronutrient blends that include Mo & B to help fruit set (Sunshine Superfood).
4. 🐝 Pollination - Often Overlooked
Sapodilla flowers are small and often require pollinators for best fruit set.
In some regions, small insects like thrips are key pollinators.
In places with low insect activity, hand pollination dramatically increases fruit set - brushing pollen from one flower to another with a small paintbrush during peak bloom times can help.
Placing fruit scraps (apple peels/banana peels) under the tree to attract beetles is an inexpensive way to boost insect activity.
5. ✂️ Pruning and Tree Structure
Moderate pruning can help open the canopy for better light penetration and air circulation, which supports flowering and reduces stress. Training young trees promotes a strong branch structure that can carry more fruit later. Sapodilla flowers on young growth (tips of the branches).
6. Pot vs Ground: Size Matters
If your sapodilla is in a container, root bound trees struggle with fruit set because roots run out of space and nutrients - stepping up to a larger container or planting in the ground can help.
Root-bound trees often bloom but fail to develop fruit.
7.
📅 Patience & Timing
Even healthy trees can take years to start fruiting well.
Trees often flower repeatedly but only set fruit when environmental conditions and pollination align - especially important for young or newly planted trees.
📌 Summary Checklist for Better Sapodilla Fruiting
✔️ Choose a grafted variety (faster, more reliable fruit).
✔️ Manage heat & humidity - shade during hot hours.
✔️ Water consistently but avoid waterlogging.
✔️ Fertilize balanced NPK + micronutrients (include B & Mo).
Sunshine: You know, February 27 was International Polar Bear Day. I
just learned about it and got a brilliant marketing idea. Cherry of the Rio
Grande survived 25F. With wind. Real wind. That means we go north. Let them
taste this magic. I even have a donut recipe with the fruit. It’s a
bomb,
Smokey. We expand. Trust me. Finally you can afford that new watering
timer.
Smokey: Not so fast, genius. Twenty five degrees is not the North
Pole. And polar bears and penguins do not share zip codes.
Sunshine: You always pour cold water on my brilliance. Fine. Where
do we start?
Smokey: Well, first you go talk to Tatiana. She graduated from the
Geography Department. She can explain climate zones. Cherry of the Rio
Grande
can grow in North Florida, Texas, and similar climates. Let’s master
that before we conquer Arctic.
Sunshine: So… Phase One: Geography?
Smokey: Exactly.
Some stories are easier to tell with a little humor. Smokey and Sunshine
were never just mascots. They represent the two forces behind every decision
we make here: bold ideas and careful reality. One dreams big. The other
checks
the climate zone map. Together, they remind us that growing plants is part
science, part optimism, and always personal. If you have ever wondered why
they keep appearing in our newsletters, you can read their full story on the
Smokey and Sunshine page. They have been with us longer than most people
realize.
Freeze Testing of Grumichama and Cherry of Rio Grande
🍒❄️
Eugenia brasiliensis - Grumichama tree flowering and fruiting
When temperatures dropped to 25F, with wind chill near 14F, winter made
it clear which tropical trees were truly resilient. Some plants burned back.
Tender growth collapsed. But our established Eugenia cherries stood
steady. Leaves held. Branches stayed flexible. The canopy remained intact.
Cherry of the Rio Grande (Eugenia aggregata) and Grumichama (Eugenia brasiliensis) are among the most cold-hardy tropical
cherries for Southern gardens. Both are native to Brazil and thrive in USDA
Zones 9b–11, and even protected 9a sites.
Cherry of the Rio Grande produces dark ruby fruit that ripens
almost black, with a rich, full cherry flavor. It flowers early in spring
and
can fruit well into summer. Mature trees can tolerate brief drops into the
low
20s once established. Trees typically grow 8 to 15 feet tall, remain
naturally compact, and often begin fruiting within 2 to 3 years.
Grumichama is an evergreen tree known for both beauty and
productivity. In spring, it covers itself in white starburst flowers that
attract
pollinators. Within about four weeks, glossy purple-black fruit develops.
Established trees tolerate temperatures into the upper 20s and grow well in
the
ground or in 5–10 gallon containers. Mature trees can produce hundreds
of
fruits per season.
Across the Eugenia group, strengths are consistent: early
bearing, compact growth, heat tolerance, light freeze endurance, and low
pest
pressure. They are adaptable to different soils, need modest water once
established, and perform in full sun or partial shade. Birds enjoy the
fruit, but there
is usually plenty to share.
Nutritionally, Eugenia cherries provide Vitamin C, fiber,
antioxidants, and notable Vitamin A that supports eye health. They offer
sweetness
with real dietary value.
In the kitchen, they are simple and rewarding. Cherry of the Rio Grande
makes an easy
compote. Simmer the fruit with a small amount of water until soft, mash
lightly, and spoon over pancakes or warm bread. Grumichama turns into a deep
red
jam with sugar and lime, or can be blended into a bright spoon drizzle over
vanilla ice cream.
Even when not fruiting, both trees remain attractive year-round with
glossy evergreen foliage and clean structure. They fit well into edible
landscapes, small yards, and container gardens.
Winter will return. The difference lies in planting fruit trees that can
handle heat, humidity, and the occasional cold snap. If you are building a
food forest for lasting harvests, cold-hardy tropical cherries like Cherry
of
the Rio Grande and Grumichama deserve a place in your garden.
Ripe Grumichama (Eugenia brasiliensis) fruits developing on the
tree, turning deep red to nearly black when fully mature.
Eugenia aggregata (cv. Calycina), Cherry of the Rio Grande
Alocasias and
Colocasias, commonly known as Elephant Ears, are both remarkable and popular
plants that can bring a touch of tropical elegance to any garden. Here's why
they are often considered great additions:
1. Striking Foliage: One of the most captivating features of
colocasias and alocasias is their large, lush foliage. The leaves can be
enormous, resembling the shape of elephant ears, hence the common name. The foliage
is usually rich green, but there are also varieties with hues of purple,
black, or variegated patterns. These vibrant leaves create a dramatic focal point
in any garden setting.
2. Tropical Aesthetic: Colocasias and alocasias have a distinct
tropical vibe that can transform your garden into a lush oasis. Their exotic
appearance lends itself well to creating a tropical-themed garden or adding a
bold accent to other styles of landscaping. Their large, architectural leaves
add a sense of drama and create a stunning backdrop for other plants.
3. Versatility: These plants can be grown in various garden
settings. They work well in containers, making them suitable for patio gardens or
balcony displays. In larger landscapes, colocasias and alocasias can be
planted directly in the ground, either as standalone specimens or as part of mixed
border plantings. They can also be utilized around water features or in bog
gardens since they enjoy moist conditions.
4. Low Maintenance: Once established, colocasias and alocasias
are generally low maintenance plants. They thrive in full to partial shade,
preferring a consistently moist soil. Regular watering and occasional
fertilization will help them grow vigorously. While they are generally hardy, some
varieties may require protection during colder months or overwintering in
frost-prone regions.
5. Impressive Size: With proper care and favorable growing
conditions, colocasias and alocasias can reach impressive sizes. Some varieties can
grow several feet tall, creating a stunning vertical element in the garden.
Their size and presence make them ideal for adding structure and height to
planting arrangements.
6. Unique Varieties: Colocasias and alocasias offer a wide range
of cultivars and species, each with its own distinct characteristics. From
the classic Colocasia esculenta to the more exotic Alocasia macrorrhizos, there
are numerous options to choose from. You can select plants with different
leaf shapes, colors, and patterns to suit your taste and garden design.
Go Bananas!
10 good reasons to plant bananas in your garden
Adding banana plants to your subtropical garden or plant
collection can enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor and indoor space, provide fresh and nutritious fruits, and offer a fun gardening experience with
relatively low maintenance requirements. It's a delightful way to connect with nature and enjoy the benefits of homegrown
produce.
1. Tropical Ambiance: Banana plants bring a touch of the tropics
to your subtropical garden. Their large, lush leaves create a lush and exotic atmosphere that can transform your garden into a
tropical paradise.
2. Homegrown Flavor: Growing your own banana trees allows you to
enjoy the freshest, most flavorful bananas right from your garden. Homegrown bananas often have a superior
taste compared to store-bought varieties.
3. Nutritional Benefits: Bananas are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. By
cultivating your own banana trees, you gain access to a nutritious and healthy snack option right in your backyard.
4. Quick Results: Banana plants are known for their fast growth. In subtropical climates, they can produce fruit in as little as one to two years. This means you don't have to wait long to savor the fruits of your labor!
5. Low Maintenance: Banana trees are relatively low-maintenance
once established. They require regular watering, but their hardy nature makes
them a relatively easy addition to your garden. They are not messy in a
landscape.
6. Versatility: Bananas offer versatility in your garden. You can choose from dessert bananas for snacking, cooking bananas like plantains for culinary experiments,
or even ornamental banana varieties to enhance your garden's aesthetics.
There are so many varieties to enjoy! You can't find this big selection in a
grocery store.
7. Sustainable Living: Growing your own bananas reduces your reliance on
store-bought produce, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle. It also
minimizes the carbon footprint associated with transporting fruits to market.
8. Educational Value: Cultivating banana plants can be an
educational experience for both adults and children. It offers insights into
tropical horticulture and can foster an appreciation for gardening and botany.
9. Landscaping Appeal: Beyond their fruit-bearing potential, banana plants add visual
interest to your garden. Their unique form and striking leaves make them an excellent choice for
landscaping and providing shade in your outdoor space.
10. Resilience: While bananas thrive in tropical conditions, many banana varieties are hardy enough to withstand cooler
climates, making them a durable addition to your garden.
