Date: 12 Apr 2023
Colocasia vs Alocasia
Q: What is the difference between Alocasia and Colocasia? They both are called Elephant Ears...
A: Alocasia and Colocasia are exotic tropical-looking plants with large, arrow- or heart-shaped leaves resembling elephant ears, hence the common name. They are both members of the Araceae family and are often confused with each other due to their similar appearance. The key differences between the two plants:
Leaf shape: The leaves of Alocasia are typically arrowhead-shaped and have a more elongated appearance. The leaves of Colocasia, on the other hand, are more heart-shaped and broader.
Leaf texture: Alocasia leaves have a smooth, glossy texture, while Colocasia leaves are typically more matte and have a slightly rough texture.
Stem color: The stems of Alocasia plants are typically green, while the stems of Colocasia plants are usually purplish, dark or almost black.
Growing conditions: Alocasia plants prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil, prefering to stay on a dry side, while Colocasia plants prefer partial to full shade and moist soil.
Hardiness: Colocasia plants are generally more cold-hardy than Alocasia plants and can tolerate colder temperatures. Both Alocasia and Colocasia may go dormant in Winter especially in cooler climates, and grow new leaves in Spring.
Elephant Ears are absolutely gorgeous tropical plants. They add bold texture, tropical flair, and thrive in filtered light, making it a unique and low maintenance addition to any garden, especially shaded locations.
Date: 8 Feb 2023
Gift Plants
In the photo: fragrant Jasmine Sambac Maid of Orleans
How to make the best gift plant?
1. Consider her/his interests and environment: Think about the recipient's favorite colors, preferred growing conditions (e.g. sunlight, temperature), and any specific plants they already have and like.
2. Choose an easy plant, especially when giving it to inexperienced gardener. Desert roses, Plumerias, Indoor plants are great for both beginners and experts.
3. Something to enjoy right away: Select an established plant with developed roots and foliage. Grafted fruit trees will produce soon, and aroma of a spice tree can be appreciated without waiting for it to grow bigger. House plants such as Philodendrons with ornamental foliage will brighten the room.
4. Presentation matters: Wrap the plant in decorative paper or a gift bag, and consider adding a bow or tag for a personal touch.
5. Add a personal touch: Consider pairing the plant with a personalized message or a small item such as a watering can, plant food, or a pretty planter. Your thoughtfulness will make the gift even more special.
Some gift plant ideas: Jasmines - Desert Roses - Gingers - Mango - Avocado - Spice plants - Indoor plants - easy maintenance plants - Plants of Love: Aphrodisiacs.
In the photo: Annonas are one of the most popular tropical fruit trees, fast fruiting, suitable for small gardens and container culture
Date: 2 Dec 2022
Plant Horoscope - Sagittarius
Zodiac Lucky Plants 11/22-12/21
By Alex Butova, the Witch of Herbs and Cats
...Of all three fire signs, Sagittarius is the least likely to care with growing plants.... In the short hours of
rest, he will gladly look and smell, and taste, and even will delighted with them (if time remains),
thinking: "Beautiful! I hadn't noticed before?" And, instructing someone to start growing the plants he likes, this
tireless Archer will hurry further...
Plants that can attract the attention of Sagittarius most often have large
spectacular flowers with a pronounced scent, often they have large, elongated leathery leaves. And
he also really likes fruits and nuts - he loves a deliciousness....
...Colocasia's and Alocasia's heart-shaped leaves, arrow-like (named also
sagittate!) shoots, and overall rarity makes these plants stand out next to
more traditional house plants. These plants are known as needing little more
love and care, but also for being able to return these benefits to their
gardener. Alocasias are so perfect for Sagittarius, he feels their vibrations,
which are so necessary for him in achieving his goals. They are the real
talisman for this sign...
Date: 29 Sep 2020
Shipping Tropical Plants Worldwide
Q: We are very interested in introducing frost-hardy avocado varieties into Switzerland. We would really, really like to have our own avocados in our garden. And we believe that the plants have a large sales market here. Do you see a way to send some plants to Switzerland? Which varieties would you recommend, which are the cold-hardiest?
A: Yes, we do ship plants all over the world, including Europe. For basic information on international shipping, please refer to these guidelines. Shipping plants internationally is a bit complex procedure, however we have over 17 years experience with that and you came to the right place. For a quote on shipping cost and to make sure you get all the necessary paperwork, contact our international department direct number 239-771-8082 or email us .
Regarding your questions about Avocado varieties:
First, please take a look at Cold hardy Avocado varieties guide pdf file. The most cold hardy
varieties like Brazos Belle, Fantastic, Joey, Lila, Poncho, Winter Mexican - can
take short period of light freeze as long as they well established. This means,
for the first year or two you need to protect them from freeze. Keep in mind
that if you have hard freeze every night for several weeks, then even
cold-hardy Avocados must be grown with cold protection. It is possible to do by
creating a greenhouse/conservatory around plants in the ground, see example from one of our customers in Virginia. Even better - grow them
in large pots. This way plants will be easier to handle and move around as
needed. See the photo above of avocado production in pots.
Date: 29 Jun 2019
Shipping plants during hot weather. Ship plants now or wait until it gets cooler
Q: Can you ship my plants now or should I wait until it gets cooler? Daytime temperatures here are around 90F.
A: Top Tropicals ships year around. In transit, packages are usually kept in a temperature controlled environment. In hot summer time, it is still safe to order plants in mail, as long as the box is not left at your doorstep in full sun.
Keep your eye at the weather forecast and if temperatures get to extremes (over 95F daytime), we strongly advise that you be present to accept delivery. As your package may be left on your doorstep by the carrier, this prolonged exposure to heat may be harmful to the health of your plants.
If no one is available to accept delivery, we suggest that you contact our customer service to postpone shipment until a later date or coordinate an alternate delivery address, or simply use your work address for delivery - so you can get your plants without delay. You may also use the delivery address at FedEx pickup locations to avoid delays!
We monitor the weather at destination before shipping. When daytime temperatures in your area are over 90F, your shipment may be delayed to ensure plants have a safe trip and do not overheat in the delivery truck. See information on shipping process and terms.
Please contact us for more info on holding orders during hot weather.
Read more about hot weather shipping...
