GARDEN PLANTS
Acalypha wilkesiana Local Name : Copper leaf Family : Euphorbiaceae
Originating in Fiji and nearby islands, this shrub grows to a height and spread of 10 ft (3 m). With erect stems branching from the base, it is grown for its large, serrated, oval leaves which appear in a wide color range, some with contrasting margins. Inconspicuous tassel-like catkins of reddish bronze flowers
It prefers a warm, sheltered position and the foliage colors are best in full sun.
Cultivars include:
Macrophylla with very large leaves, each differently variegated with bronze, copper, red, cream and yellow blotches;
Godseffiana with narrow, drooping green leaves edged with cream;
Macafeeanaf with deep bronze leaves splashed with coppery red; and
Marginatawith bronze-red leaves edged with cream or
Cultivation: They need a sunny to semi-shaded position, well-drained, light soil with plenty of water during summer, and protection from wind.
Prune lightly to shape followed by additional feeding and watering. Propagate from cuttings .
It prefers a warm, sheltered position and the foliage colors are best in full sun.
Cultivars include:
Macrophylla with very large leaves, each differently variegated with bronze, copper, red, cream and yellow blotches;
Godseffiana with narrow, drooping green leaves edged with cream;
Macafeeanaf with deep bronze leaves splashed with coppery red; and
Marginatawith bronze-red leaves edged with cream or
Cultivation: They need a sunny to semi-shaded position, well-drained, light soil with plenty of water during summer, and protection from wind.
Prune lightly to shape followed by additional feeding and watering. Propagate from cuttings .
Acalypha hispida Local Name : Red cat's tail, Ekor kucing Family : Euphorbiaceae
Originally to be from Malaysia, this upright, soft-stemmed shrub is grown for its striking, tiny, bright red flowers that hang in pendulous, tassel-like spikes on the female plants.
Leaves are large, oval and bright green to reddish bronze. It reaches a height and spread of 6 ft (1.8 m).
Regular pruning will maintain a bushy shape. It does best in sheltered sites in full sun.
Cultivation: They need a sunny to semi-shaded position, well-drained, light soil with plenty of water and protection from wind.
Prune lightly to shape followed by additional feeding and watering. Propagate from cuttings .
Acasia auriculiformis Local Name : Akasia Family : Fabaceae
A fast growing tree that grows well even on poor soil.
The tree flowers quickly, within 1-2 years. The tiny yellow flowers are fragrant.
The pods are first straight or slightly curved but as they ripen, they turn from yellow to brown and curl up, then split open. Birds find these seeds highly attractive and eat them. Thus the plant is very quickly dispersed.
Uses for food: Aborigines of Australia have traditionally harvested the seeds of some acacia species as food. These are ground into flour and eaten as a paste or baked into a cake.
Other uses: Acacias were purposely introduced and planted in Southeast Asia and Oceania as a source of firewood and good quality charcoal (does not smoke), as well as timber for furniture and pulp for making paper (acacia produces high yields of pulp
The tree flowers quickly, within 1-2 years. The tiny yellow flowers are fragrant.
The pods are first straight or slightly curved but as they ripen, they turn from yellow to brown and curl up, then split open. Birds find these seeds highly attractive and eat them. Thus the plant is very quickly dispersed.
Uses for food: Aborigines of Australia have traditionally harvested the seeds of some acacia species as food. These are ground into flour and eaten as a paste or baked into a cake.
Other uses: Acacias were purposely introduced and planted in Southeast Asia and Oceania as a source of firewood and good quality charcoal (does not smoke), as well as timber for furniture and pulp for making paper (acacia produces high yields of pulp
Adenium obesum Local Name : Kemboja Jepun Family : Apocynaceae
Commonly found species can make a small tree of 12 ft (3.5 m) or more with swollen trunk and thick, crooked limbs, but in cultivation it seldom exceeds about 5 ft (1.5 m), The very decorative, trumpet-shaped blooms are 1 1/2_2 in (38_50 mm) long and vary considerably in coloring.
Cultivation: The plant prefer a position in full sun or part-shade .
Kept dwarfed and rootbound in a pot, they will often flower more profusely.
As very prone to rotting, they require a gritty, well-drained soil.
Propagate from seed or cuttings.
Cultivation: The plant prefer a position in full sun or part-shade .
Kept dwarfed and rootbound in a pot, they will often flower more profusely.
As very prone to rotting, they require a gritty, well-drained soil.
Propagate from seed or cuttings.
Adianthum aethiopicum Local Name : Maidenhair Family : Polypodiaceae
Occurring through much of Asia, Africa and Australasia, common maidenhair has some of the most delicate fronds of the genus with very rounded, pale green leaflets 1/4 in (8 mm) or less in diameter.
Its wiry rhizomes are deeply buried, and a plant can spread extensively.
It often appears spontaneously in moist, shady spots in the garden, from wind-carried spores.
Plant in a humus-rich indoor mix in a container that is not too large for the roots, which do not like too much wetness.
Remove old fronds regularly. Propagate from spores.
Aglaonema commutatum Local Name : Chinese evergreen Family : Araceae
Aglaonemas come from the tropical forests of south-east Asia. Aglaonemas belong to the aroids family, together with spathifyllum, dieffenbachia and philodentron. As its "relatives", it has shiny oval-shaped leaves, with jigged edges, fleshy to the touch and with impressive alternations of various tones of green. Its flowers look like small white callas and they produce a few yellow or red fruits.
However, the basic reason for cultivating aglaonemas is their wonderful foliage and not its colors. Aglaonema is very resistant to disease .
Aglaonemas can be grown to any degree of lighting, from full-light (filtered - never direct sunlight) to the darkest room of hour home. Of course, the more the light it gets the most impressive the colors on its leaves will be. Propagation: Division or stem cuttings
However, the basic reason for cultivating aglaonemas is their wonderful foliage and not its colors. Aglaonema is very resistant to disease .
Aglaonemas can be grown to any degree of lighting, from full-light (filtered - never direct sunlight) to the darkest room of hour home. Of course, the more the light it gets the most impressive the colors on its leaves will be. Propagation: Division or stem cuttings
Allamanda cathartica Local Name : Golden Trumpet Family : Apocynaceae
Exceptional among the species of this genus in having flowers colored other than yellow,
Allamanda blanchetii is of uncertain wild origin somewhere in South America.
It is similar in foliage to the common A. cathartica but is a less vigorous twiner that can easily be trained to a 6 ft (1.8 m) shrub.
The flowers, about 3 in (8 cm) across, are a somewhat dingy purplish mauve color but of heavy substance, borne freely .
Cultivation: They grow in a sunny, sheltered position in rich soil, watering freely .
Prune heavily to maintain shape and encourage flowering.
Propagate from cuttings and watch for mites which disfigure the leaves.
Allamanda blanchetii is of uncertain wild origin somewhere in South America.
It is similar in foliage to the common A. cathartica but is a less vigorous twiner that can easily be trained to a 6 ft (1.8 m) shrub.
The flowers, about 3 in (8 cm) across, are a somewhat dingy purplish mauve color but of heavy substance, borne freely .
Cultivation: They grow in a sunny, sheltered position in rich soil, watering freely .
Prune heavily to maintain shape and encourage flowering.
Propagate from cuttings and watch for mites which disfigure the leaves.
Alocasia korthalsii Local Name : Telinga Gajah Family : Araceae
This species has 3 ft (1 m) long stalks which carry broad, arrowhead-shaped, glossy green leaves up to 3 ft (1 m) in length.
It produces insignificant but fragrant flowers on a spadix enclosed in a leaf-like, yellowish green spathe.
Plant Height approx. 120 cm
Flowering colors: Green, Yellow
Alpinia purpurata Local Name : Lengkuas merah Family : Zingiberaceae
Originating from the Pacific Islands, the showy spikes of small white flowers in vivid scarlet bracts bloom throughout the year.
The glossy leaves are narrow and lance-shaped.
New plantlets sprout among the flower bracts and take root when the dying flower stems fall to the ground under the weight of the growing plantlets.
Cultivation:They appreciate part-shade, a warm, moist atmosphere and rich soil.
Propagate by division.
Anthurium flamingo Local Name : flower Anturium Family : Araceae
This is a huge and diverse genus of evergreen, shrubby or climbing epiphytes in the arum family, all from tropical America.
Familiar as florists plants and cut flowers are 2-3 species with typically brilliant red flat spathes held above broad leathery leaves; selection and breeding has broadened the range of colors to include white, pink and orange.
The actual flowers are the tiny bumps gathered around the central spadix.
Cultivation: Plant in a humid position, in well-drained, peaty soil in full or part-shade out of the wind.
Keep soil moist but not soggy.
Propagate from rhizomes.
Potted plants need dividing and repotting every few years.
Familiar as florists plants and cut flowers are 2-3 species with typically brilliant red flat spathes held above broad leathery leaves; selection and breeding has broadened the range of colors to include white, pink and orange.
The actual flowers are the tiny bumps gathered around the central spadix.
Cultivation: Plant in a humid position, in well-drained, peaty soil in full or part-shade out of the wind.
Keep soil moist but not soggy.
Propagate from rhizomes.
Potted plants need dividing and repotting every few years.
Antigonum leptopus Local name : Air mata pengantin Family : Polygonaceae
This is a fast-growing, showy creeper that may grow to 25 ft (8 m) or more,is also called Honolulu creeper.
It bears masses of deep pink, heart-shaped flowers and is ideal for trellises, pergolas and arbours where a light cover is desirable.
Cultivation: These climbers thrive in any well-drained soil in a warm spot but require ample summer moisture. Propagate from seed, cuttings or division of the rootstock.
Arachis pintoi Local Name : Signal grass, Kacang kuning Family : Leguminosaceae
Originating from central Brazil (collected from the mouth of the Jequitinhonha River). It can withstand 3-4 months of drought, but will shed many of its leaves . They prefers shaded conditions and even grows well under heavy (70-80%) shade .
Seedlings develop quickly Complete ground cover can be reached by about 6 months via a network of stolons. Flowering begins 3-4 weeks after emergence and continues through the growing season. Flowering intensifies after rain or irrigation. Seeds remain viable in the ground for more than one season.Cuttings: Cuttings should be 4-8 inches long and partially buried 3-5 inches deep in soil in pots or a prepared seedbed. For quick soil cover, plant cuttings 10-15 inches apart. Do not allow cuttings to dry out before, during or after planting .
Remove stolon section from the mother plant and place 1/2 - 1 inch deep in the soil at 10-12 inch spacing.
Seedlings develop quickly Complete ground cover can be reached by about 6 months via a network of stolons. Flowering begins 3-4 weeks after emergence and continues through the growing season. Flowering intensifies after rain or irrigation. Seeds remain viable in the ground for more than one season.Cuttings: Cuttings should be 4-8 inches long and partially buried 3-5 inches deep in soil in pots or a prepared seedbed. For quick soil cover, plant cuttings 10-15 inches apart. Do not allow cuttings to dry out before, during or after planting .
Remove stolon section from the mother plant and place 1/2 - 1 inch deep in the soil at 10-12 inch spacing.
Asplenium nidus Nest fern, Paku sarang burung Family : Polypodiaceae
This pantropical, epiphytic fern colonises trees, rock faces and boulders in humid, tropical rainforests.
The glossy green, thin, tongue-like fronds have wavy margins and a prominent, almost black midrib.
They arise from a densely hairy crown in a radial fashion, somewhat resembling a birds nest.
It requires warmth and ample humidity.
Asplenium australasicum is a very similar species, adapted to slightly cooler conditions.
Cultivation: Hardiness varies greatly with the species, as does the preferred growing environment. Most species prefer woodland conditions with cool, moist, humus-rich soil and dappled shade. Propagate by spores, by division of established clumps, removing rooted pieces of rhizomes, or by growing on the frond-borne plantlets.
The glossy green, thin, tongue-like fronds have wavy margins and a prominent, almost black midrib.
They arise from a densely hairy crown in a radial fashion, somewhat resembling a birds nest.
It requires warmth and ample humidity.
Asplenium australasicum is a very similar species, adapted to slightly cooler conditions.
Cultivation: Hardiness varies greatly with the species, as does the preferred growing environment. Most species prefer woodland conditions with cool, moist, humus-rich soil and dappled shade. Propagate by spores, by division of established clumps, removing rooted pieces of rhizomes, or by growing on the frond-borne plantlets.
Aucuba japonica Local Name : Aucuba Plant : Cornaceae
This species will continue to spread by basal sprouting and self-layering of its weak, soft-wooded stems and, as it thickens up, the mass of stems will support one another, allowing it to reach 10 ft (3 m).
The thick, soft, glossy leaves are up to 10 in (25 cm) long and very variably toothed.
Sprays of small, reddish flowers may be followed by drooping clusters of 1/2 in (12 mm) long, red berries.
Cultivars include Variegata (female), which has leaves densely spotted with yellow, and Crotonifolia (male), with leaves heavily splashed with yellow.
Cultivation: They are tough and resilient, tolerant of frost, neglect, pollution and heavy shading but responding to better treatment and stronger light with more luxuriant growth. The long-lasting but tender leaves should be protected from wind damage.
Grow in full sun or part- or full shade, with filtered light for variegated species, in any soil. Propagate from seed or cuttings
The thick, soft, glossy leaves are up to 10 in (25 cm) long and very variably toothed.
Sprays of small, reddish flowers may be followed by drooping clusters of 1/2 in (12 mm) long, red berries.
Cultivars include Variegata (female), which has leaves densely spotted with yellow, and Crotonifolia (male), with leaves heavily splashed with yellow.
Cultivation: They are tough and resilient, tolerant of frost, neglect, pollution and heavy shading but responding to better treatment and stronger light with more luxuriant growth. The long-lasting but tender leaves should be protected from wind damage.
Grow in full sun or part- or full shade, with filtered light for variegated species, in any soil. Propagate from seed or cuttings
Bambusa Local name : Bamboo Bambu Family : Gramineae
This is a genus of around 120 species of clump-forming bamboos found in tropical and subtropical Asia.
Many are very large, up to 80 ft (24 m) tall or even more, with strong, woody, hollow stems. In their native lands they are put to all sorts of uses, especially in construction, including scaffolding, and for piping and fencing.
The upper parts of the stems are often arching, and branch at the nodes into wiry branchlets with masses of grass-like leaves.
The flowers are rather insignificant, often half-hidden among the foliage on slender, arching panicles which are usually produced rather intermittently.
Some of the most popular ornamental bamboos in this genus are cultivars with striped variegation of the stems or leaves.
Cultivation: They are best grown in warm-temperate to tropical climates with moist,
humid conditions and deep, humus-rich soil. Propagate by division in spring.
Many are very large, up to 80 ft (24 m) tall or even more, with strong, woody, hollow stems. In their native lands they are put to all sorts of uses, especially in construction, including scaffolding, and for piping and fencing.
The upper parts of the stems are often arching, and branch at the nodes into wiry branchlets with masses of grass-like leaves.
The flowers are rather insignificant, often half-hidden among the foliage on slender, arching panicles which are usually produced rather intermittently.
Some of the most popular ornamental bamboos in this genus are cultivars with striped variegation of the stems or leaves.
Cultivation: They are best grown in warm-temperate to tropical climates with moist,
humid conditions and deep, humus-rich soil. Propagate by division in spring.
Bauhinia splendens Local Name : Pohon kupu kupu Family : Leguminosaceae
This is a variable genus of legumes, consisting of some 250 species of evergreen and dry-season deciduous trees, shrubs and climbers, occurring in most tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
All have characteristic 2-lobed leaves, but they are grown for their beautiful perfumed flowers whose likeness to orchids or butterflies has given rise to the common names of several species.
The flattened brown seed pods that follow often persist on the branches for months.
Flowering colors: Cream, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, White, Yellow
Cultivation: Full sun and light, fertile, well-drained soil suit them best.
Pruning is not usually necessary, but vigorous growth may be thinned out after flowering.
Propagate from seed.
All have characteristic 2-lobed leaves, but they are grown for their beautiful perfumed flowers whose likeness to orchids or butterflies has given rise to the common names of several species.
The flattened brown seed pods that follow often persist on the branches for months.
Flowering colors: Cream, Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, White, Yellow
Cultivation: Full sun and light, fertile, well-drained soil suit them best.
Pruning is not usually necessary, but vigorous growth may be thinned out after flowering.
Propagate from seed.
Begonia Local Name : Begonia Family : Begoniaceae
Begonias are native to moist tropical and subtropical regions of all continents except Australia, and are most diverse in South America.
There are over 1,500 known species, ranging from rhizomatous perennials a few inches high to 10 ft (3 m) shrubs. Mostly evergreen, they have broad, usually asymmetrical leaves of rather brittle and waxy texture.
Female flowers, as distinct from male flowers which are on the same plant, have broad, colored flanges on the ovaries which develop into winged fruits.
Cultivation: Propagate from tubers in the case of tuberous begonias.
Other begonias may be propagated from stem or leaf cuttings (laying cut leaf blades flat on damp sand, weighed down with pebbles), or by division of rhizomes or from seed.
Begonias are susceptible to gray mold, powdery mildew and botrytis
There are over 1,500 known species, ranging from rhizomatous perennials a few inches high to 10 ft (3 m) shrubs. Mostly evergreen, they have broad, usually asymmetrical leaves of rather brittle and waxy texture.
Female flowers, as distinct from male flowers which are on the same plant, have broad, colored flanges on the ovaries which develop into winged fruits.
Cultivation: Propagate from tubers in the case of tuberous begonias.
Other begonias may be propagated from stem or leaf cuttings (laying cut leaf blades flat on damp sand, weighed down with pebbles), or by division of rhizomes or from seed.
Begonias are susceptible to gray mold, powdery mildew and botrytis
Bismarckia nobilis Local Name : Bismarck palm Family : Palmae
This species from Madagascar is single-trunked.
the trunk go up to 12-21 mtr 40-70 ft.
The leafs are silverly blue,with woolly wax on the bottom.
He is drought and salt resistant.
Prune sparingly and avoid damage from the lower trunk and roots.
The much-branched inflorescence bears tiny brown flowers and the fruits, about 1/2 in (12 mm) long, are green.
Cultivation: Plant in moist, well-drained soil in sun or light shade.
Propagate from seed.
Seeds can take up to 2-3 months to germinate.
the trunk go up to 12-21 mtr 40-70 ft.
The leafs are silverly blue,with woolly wax on the bottom.
He is drought and salt resistant.
Prune sparingly and avoid damage from the lower trunk and roots.
The much-branched inflorescence bears tiny brown flowers and the fruits, about 1/2 in (12 mm) long, are green.
Cultivation: Plant in moist, well-drained soil in sun or light shade.
Propagate from seed.
Seeds can take up to 2-3 months to germinate.
Bougainvillea Local Name : Bunga kertas Family : Nyctaginaceae
Bougainvilleas are valued for their glorious, flamboyant display of blooms and their ability to cover a large area, of either ground or wall.
The genus consists of 14 species ranging through tropical and subtropical South America, but only 3 or 4 have been grown as ornamentals. The numerous cultivars include a large range of different kinds and colors. They are evergreen in the wet tropics, but their finest display is in the dry season though they may flower on and off all year.
The true flowers are tubular and rather insignificant, but the surrounding bracts are brilliantly colored, often changing color or shade as they age.
The plants are essentially scrambling shrubs, producing long canes armed with strong woody thorns that act as a grappling mechanism to aid climbing. The simple, broad leaves are soft and usually finely hairy.
Cultivation: Only water when needed and do not over-fertilize, particularly with nitrogen, as this
will produce luxuriant leaf growth but very little in the way of colorful bracts.
The genus consists of 14 species ranging through tropical and subtropical South America, but only 3 or 4 have been grown as ornamentals. The numerous cultivars include a large range of different kinds and colors. They are evergreen in the wet tropics, but their finest display is in the dry season though they may flower on and off all year.
The true flowers are tubular and rather insignificant, but the surrounding bracts are brilliantly colored, often changing color or shade as they age.
The plants are essentially scrambling shrubs, producing long canes armed with strong woody thorns that act as a grappling mechanism to aid climbing. The simple, broad leaves are soft and usually finely hairy.
Cultivation: Only water when needed and do not over-fertilize, particularly with nitrogen, as this
will produce luxuriant leaf growth but very little in the way of colorful bracts.
Brugmansia Local Name : Trumpet flower Family : Solonaceae
The large shrubs or small trees of this genus are grown for their very large, fragrant, pendent trumpet flowers.
They are still often found under the name Datura, but the true daturas are short lived, herbaceous plants with smaller, more upright flowers and capsular fruits that are usually prickly (brugmansias have fleshy, unarmed fruit that may be very long and narrow).
Five or more species are currently attributed to Brugmansia, most originating in the Andes of northern South America, though even there they seem always to be associated with human habitation.
They are evergreen or semi-evergreen and their leaves are large and soft, rather like tobacco leaves but smaller, and all parts of the plant are narcotic and poisonous.
Cultivation: The plants prefer a warm to hot climate, a sunny sheltered site and a light, fertile, well-drained soil.
Best grown as small trees, they can be shaped when young to obtain a single trunk or can be kept trimmed as dense, rounded shrubs.
Keep well watered during the growing season.
Propagate from tip cuttings.
They are still often found under the name Datura, but the true daturas are short lived, herbaceous plants with smaller, more upright flowers and capsular fruits that are usually prickly (brugmansias have fleshy, unarmed fruit that may be very long and narrow).
Five or more species are currently attributed to Brugmansia, most originating in the Andes of northern South America, though even there they seem always to be associated with human habitation.
They are evergreen or semi-evergreen and their leaves are large and soft, rather like tobacco leaves but smaller, and all parts of the plant are narcotic and poisonous.
Cultivation: The plants prefer a warm to hot climate, a sunny sheltered site and a light, fertile, well-drained soil.
Best grown as small trees, they can be shaped when young to obtain a single trunk or can be kept trimmed as dense, rounded shrubs.
Keep well watered during the growing season.
Propagate from tip cuttings.
Caesalpinia pulcherrima Peacock flower Family : Leguminosaceae
Mostly seen as a shrub of about 8 ft (2.4 m), this tropical American species can grow to 15-20 ft (4.5-6 m).
Short lived and fast growing, it has an open, moderately spreading habit with coarse, prickly leaves and branches with a whitish waxy bloom, which terminate in tall, upright sprays of vivid, usually scarlet and gold blossom.
There is also a yellow-flowered form and a darker red one.
Cultivation: Most species appreciate a sheltered sunny spot and deep, sandy soil.
Propagation is from seed, which may need abrading and hot-water soaking to aid germination.
Short lived and fast growing, it has an open, moderately spreading habit with coarse, prickly leaves and branches with a whitish waxy bloom, which terminate in tall, upright sprays of vivid, usually scarlet and gold blossom.
There is also a yellow-flowered form and a darker red one.
Cultivation: Most species appreciate a sheltered sunny spot and deep, sandy soil.
Propagation is from seed, which may need abrading and hot-water soaking to aid germination.
Caladium bicolor Local Name : Daun Keladi Family : Araceae
Caladiums reached a height of popularity in the USA before World War II, when at least a thousand cultivars were listed. There has been debate as to whether the wild parents all belong to the South American Caladium bicolor in the broad sense, or whether they included several species (in which case many of the cultivars should correctly be treated as C. X hortulanum).
Their leaves are typically arrowhead-shaped but some cultivars have narrower leaves, wedge-shaped at the base.
Color varies from plain green with a red or pink center to intricate combinations of green, white, pink and red, usually with dark green veining.
Plants reach 12-15 in (30-38 cm) high.
Calathea Local Name : Prayer plant Family : Maranthaceae
Consisting of 300 or so species of evergreen perennials of the arrowroot family, native to Central and South America and the West Indies, this genus is prized for its decorative foliage.
At least one species is grown as a food crop, yielding small starchy tubers. The long-stalked, mostly upright leaves are usually large and often beautifully variegated in shades of green, white, pink, purple and maroon, and usually purplish on the undersides.
The flowers are interesting but rarely showy, in short dense spikes with overlapping bracts that may be white or variously colored and often partly hidden beneath the foliage.
Cultivation: Attractive foliage plants for outdoor landscaping in shaded areas beneath trees or in courtyards.
Many will thrive in low light levels.
Plant in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Water freely and fertilize regularly.
Propagate by division of rhizomes.
The sheathing leaf bases often harbor mealybugs, and the foliage is affected by aphids, spider mites and thrips.
At least one species is grown as a food crop, yielding small starchy tubers. The long-stalked, mostly upright leaves are usually large and often beautifully variegated in shades of green, white, pink, purple and maroon, and usually purplish on the undersides.
The flowers are interesting but rarely showy, in short dense spikes with overlapping bracts that may be white or variously colored and often partly hidden beneath the foliage.
Cultivation: Attractive foliage plants for outdoor landscaping in shaded areas beneath trees or in courtyards.
Many will thrive in low light levels.
Plant in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil. Water freely and fertilize regularly.
Propagate by division of rhizomes.
The sheathing leaf bases often harbor mealybugs, and the foliage is affected by aphids, spider mites and thrips.
Calissia elegans Local Name : Inch plant Family : Commeliaceae
This perennial native of Guatemala and the Honduras grows to a height of 6 in (15 cm) with a 3 ft (1 m) spread.
Its stemless white flowers appear from fall (autumn) to winter, and its oval, olive green leaves have white stripes and grow to 4 in (10 cm) in length.
Cultivation: Most callisias are very tough plants, almost as indestructible as tradescantias (wandering jews), and can be used as ground covers or grown in containers such as hanging baskets, either indoors or out.
They do best planted in a lightly shaded position in moist soil.
They may suffer from attack by scale insects and mealybug.
Propagate from cuttings or by division.
Its stemless white flowers appear from fall (autumn) to winter, and its oval, olive green leaves have white stripes and grow to 4 in (10 cm) in length.
Cultivation: Most callisias are very tough plants, almost as indestructible as tradescantias (wandering jews), and can be used as ground covers or grown in containers such as hanging baskets, either indoors or out.
They do best planted in a lightly shaded position in moist soil.
They may suffer from attack by scale insects and mealybug.
Propagate from cuttings or by division.
Canna Local Name : Kana Family : Cannaceae
This genus of robust, rhizomatous perennials consists of about 25 species, all native to tropical and South America.
Belonging to the same broad grouping as gingers and bananas, they resemble these in that their apparent aboveground stems are not true stems but collections of tightly furled leaf bases, rising from the thick knotty rhizomes.
Slender flowering stems grow up through the centers of these false stems, emerging at the top with showy flowers of very asymmetrical structure. All garden cannas are hybrids with much broader petals, originating as crosses between several species in the mid-nineteenth century.
Early hybrids had fairly smooth petals in single colors but the addition of Canna flaccida genes resulted in larger, crumpled flowers with striking variegations (orchid-flowered cannas).
The colors of cannas range from reds, oranges and yellows through to apricots, creams and pinks. The leaves can be green, bronze or purple, or sometimes white or yellow striped.
Plants range in height from 18 in (45 cm) to 8 ft (2.4 m).
Cultivation: They are sun-loving plants and thrive in hot dry weather as long as watercan be kept up to the roots, and they respond well to heavy feeding.
Cut back to the ground after flowers finish. Propagate by division.
Belonging to the same broad grouping as gingers and bananas, they resemble these in that their apparent aboveground stems are not true stems but collections of tightly furled leaf bases, rising from the thick knotty rhizomes.
Slender flowering stems grow up through the centers of these false stems, emerging at the top with showy flowers of very asymmetrical structure. All garden cannas are hybrids with much broader petals, originating as crosses between several species in the mid-nineteenth century.
Early hybrids had fairly smooth petals in single colors but the addition of Canna flaccida genes resulted in larger, crumpled flowers with striking variegations (orchid-flowered cannas).
The colors of cannas range from reds, oranges and yellows through to apricots, creams and pinks. The leaves can be green, bronze or purple, or sometimes white or yellow striped.
Plants range in height from 18 in (45 cm) to 8 ft (2.4 m).
Cultivation: They are sun-loving plants and thrive in hot dry weather as long as watercan be kept up to the roots, and they respond well to heavy feeding.
Cut back to the ground after flowers finish. Propagate by division.
Caryota mitis Local Name : Fishtail palm Family : Palmae
This rainforest understory palm from Southeast Asia consists of a number of closely crowded stems up to about 30 ft (9 m) tall and 34 in (8.1 cm) in diameter, nearly always with a thicket of sucker growths at the base.
The fronds are rather erect, up to about 8 ft (2.4 m) long, with widely separated leaflets.
The flowers and fruit appear in succession throughout the year.
It is the most widely grown species for ornament.
Cultivation: Fishtail palms originate in very moist tropical rainforests and require sheltered, humid environments, but most will tolerate a surprising degree of cold as well as poorly drained soils.
They are easily propagated from seed.
Cassia alata Local Name : 7 Golden candlesticks Family : Leguminosaceae
The attractive shrub is named for its flower buds which grow in a column and look like fat yellow candles each complete with a flame! The leaves fold together at night. It was introduced to other tropical areas from the Americas and is now widely considered a weed. Flowers: Buds covered with orange bracts which fall off when the flower opens.
Fruits: Black pod with two broad wings; seeds small square and rattle in the pod when ripe.
Traditional medicinal uses: Leaves or sap are used to treat fungal infections such as ringworm. They contain a fungicide, chrysophanic acid. Because of its anti-fungal properties, it is a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos and lotions in the Philippines. The effectiveness of this plant against skin diseases is confirmed by modern scientific studies.
Other chemicals contained in the plant includes saponin which acts as a laxative and expels intestinal parasites. In Africa, the boiled leaves are used to treat high-blood pressure. In South America, besides skin diseases, it is also used to treat a wide range of ailments from stomach problems, fever, asthma to snake bite and venereal diseases (syphilis, gonorrhoea).
Role in the habitat: It is the food plant of some butterflies. The plant recruits ant bodyguards against these caterpillars. It has "extrafloral nectaries" near the base of the leaves, that produce sweet nectar to attract ants.
Fruits: Black pod with two broad wings; seeds small square and rattle in the pod when ripe.
Traditional medicinal uses: Leaves or sap are used to treat fungal infections such as ringworm. They contain a fungicide, chrysophanic acid. Because of its anti-fungal properties, it is a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos and lotions in the Philippines. The effectiveness of this plant against skin diseases is confirmed by modern scientific studies.
Other chemicals contained in the plant includes saponin which acts as a laxative and expels intestinal parasites. In Africa, the boiled leaves are used to treat high-blood pressure. In South America, besides skin diseases, it is also used to treat a wide range of ailments from stomach problems, fever, asthma to snake bite and venereal diseases (syphilis, gonorrhoea).
Role in the habitat: It is the food plant of some butterflies. The plant recruits ant bodyguards against these caterpillars. It has "extrafloral nectaries" near the base of the leaves, that produce sweet nectar to attract ants.
Catharanthus roseus Rose periwinkle, Tapak dara Family : Apocynaceae
In its original form this shrubby perennial is a rather slender plant about 24 in (60 cm) high, with rose pink flowers shading to a darker red eye in the center.
Garden forms are generally lower and more compact with larger flowers in a wider range of colors, blooming almost throughout the year.
Some mixed color series have flowers ranging from purple through pink to white, while others have mainly pale colors (or white) with prominent red eyes.
All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids from which drugs of value in the treatment of leukaemia have been refined.
Cultivation: In warm climates they will tolerate moderately both deep shade and the fiercest sun, and a dry atmosphere. Grow in free-draining soil, which should be kept moist in the growing period. Tip prune to keep bushy, but not so heavily as to inhibit flowering.
Propagate from seed or from cuttings.
Garden forms are generally lower and more compact with larger flowers in a wider range of colors, blooming almost throughout the year.
Some mixed color series have flowers ranging from purple through pink to white, while others have mainly pale colors (or white) with prominent red eyes.
All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids from which drugs of value in the treatment of leukaemia have been refined.
Cultivation: In warm climates they will tolerate moderately both deep shade and the fiercest sun, and a dry atmosphere. Grow in free-draining soil, which should be kept moist in the growing period. Tip prune to keep bushy, but not so heavily as to inhibit flowering.
Propagate from seed or from cuttings.
Celosia cristata Local name : Cocks'comb, Jengger ayam Family : Amaranthaceae
Of uncertain origin, this annual species has appeared in recent years as a cut flower.
Growing to 24 in (60 cm) or more tall, it has an erect, slender habit and much narrower leaves than Celosia argentea. The flowers are neatly crowded onto terminal spikes, opening progressively from the base with the buds purplish pink and the chaffy flowers ageing to pale silvery pink as the spikes elongate.
The flowers last well when dried.
Cultivation: They require full sun, rich, well-drained soil and constant moisture.
Propagate from seed.
Chlorophytum capense Hen and chickens, Lili paris Family :Liliaceae
Native to moist coastal regions of South Africa, this species is widely grown for its attractive grass-like foliage and is one of the most popular plants for hanging baskets.
In mild climates it can make a ground cover in the shade of trees, Rosettes of narrow leaves up to 18 in (45 cm) long multiply to form dense, untidy clumps.
Long, weak, branched flowering stems carry small star-shaped white flowers through much of the year, and small plantlets develop on the stems after flowering, enabling the plantÕs rapid spread.
The wild, green-leafed form is invasive in mild climates but several forms with cream- or yellow-striped leaves are more popular as garden or indoor plants: Mandaianum is a compact form, its narrower dark green leaves irregularly striped dull yellow-green; Picturatum has leaves with broad yellow central stripe; Vittatum has leaves with a broad white central stripe, usually with finer stripes at the sides. Flowering colors: White
Cultivation: they will thrive in light to medium shade. Water freely during the growing season, sparingly at other times. Propagate from seed, by division, or by means of the plantlets that often form on flowering stems.
In mild climates it can make a ground cover in the shade of trees, Rosettes of narrow leaves up to 18 in (45 cm) long multiply to form dense, untidy clumps.
Long, weak, branched flowering stems carry small star-shaped white flowers through much of the year, and small plantlets develop on the stems after flowering, enabling the plantÕs rapid spread.
The wild, green-leafed form is invasive in mild climates but several forms with cream- or yellow-striped leaves are more popular as garden or indoor plants: Mandaianum is a compact form, its narrower dark green leaves irregularly striped dull yellow-green; Picturatum has leaves with broad yellow central stripe; Vittatum has leaves with a broad white central stripe, usually with finer stripes at the sides. Flowering colors: White
Cultivation: they will thrive in light to medium shade. Water freely during the growing season, sparingly at other times. Propagate from seed, by division, or by means of the plantlets that often form on flowering stems.
Clerodendron splendens Glory bower, Rembang nyonya Verbenaceae
From tropical West Africa, mainly around the Gulf of Guinea, this evergreen, woody stemmed, twining plant grows to 10 ft (3 m) or more.
It has rich green, oval or elliptic leaves and showy clusters of 1 in (25 mm) wide scarlet flowers .
Cultivation: They all appreciate a sunny position, though sheltered from strong wind and the hottest summer sun, and deep, moist, fertile soil.
Propagation from cuttings, which strike readily under heat; or many species sucker from the roots and a large root cutting can produce much quicker results.
Clerodendrum speciosissimum Javanese glorybower Family : Verbenaceae
Sun Exposure: Partial shade
Origin: Java
Growth Habits: Up to 12 feet.
Watering Needs: Keep the soil moist.
Propagation: Suckers, tip cuttings, side shoots with heel
Clerodendrum speciosissimum attains the stature of a large shrub in frost-free climates.
Here it behaves as a lush tropical-looking 4-5 foot perennial with spikes of scarlet flowers on and off during warm weather, complementing its huge ovate leaves
Clerodendron paniculatum Pagoda flower, Bunga pagoda Family : Verbenaceae
A fast-growing but short-lived and tender species from tropical Asia, the pagoda flower is popular in the wet tropics for its huge panicles of small, scarlet flowers that terminate the erect shoots, appearing through much of the year. Growing to 6-8 ft (1.8-2.4 m), it branches from the roots into coarse, vigorous shoots with very large, deeply veined, glossy deep green leaves on long stalks.
Cultivation: They all appreciate a sunny position, though sheltered from strong wind and the hottest summer sun, and deep, moist, fertile soil.
Propagation from cuttings, which strike readily under heat; or many species sucker from the roots and a large root cutting can produce much quicker results.
Clitoria ternatea Local Name : Kembang telang Family : Leguminosaceae
Members of this large genus of more than 700 species come in just about every form imaginable: annuals, perennials, shrubs and small trees.
Most come from tropical and subtropical regions, with species found in both hemispheres. The cultivated species are generally subshrubs or small, deciduous, woody plants with bright green pinnate leaves and panicles of sweet pea-like flowers, usually produced in summer.
Flowering colors: Blue, Mauve, Pink, Purple, Red
Cultivation:They tend to prefer light yet moist, well-drained soil in sun or part-shade.
Propagate from seed or cuttings or basal suckers
Clivia miniata Local Name : Bush lilly, Sogo Family : Amaryllidaceae
The most commonly cultivated and showiest species, Clivia miniata is distributed widely in eastern South Africa.
About 18 in (45 cm) in height, it has broad leaves, sometimes up to 3 in (8 cm) wide and bears clusters of broadly funnel-shaped flowers up to 3 in (8 cm) long, mostly orange to scarlet with a yellow throat, usually in spring but with the odd bloom at other times.
Many cultivars have been selected over the years, including yellow and cream forms.
There is a group of especially prized forms commonly called hybrids with tulip-shaped blooms of a deep, rich scarlet.
Flowering colors: Cream, Orange, Scarlet, Yellow
Plant in a shaded or part-shaded, position in friable, well-drained soil; they are surface-rooted and dislike soil disturbance.
Propagate by division after flowering.
Seed can also be used but plants can be slow to flower.
About 18 in (45 cm) in height, it has broad leaves, sometimes up to 3 in (8 cm) wide and bears clusters of broadly funnel-shaped flowers up to 3 in (8 cm) long, mostly orange to scarlet with a yellow throat, usually in spring but with the odd bloom at other times.
Many cultivars have been selected over the years, including yellow and cream forms.
There is a group of especially prized forms commonly called hybrids with tulip-shaped blooms of a deep, rich scarlet.
Flowering colors: Cream, Orange, Scarlet, Yellow
Plant in a shaded or part-shaded, position in friable, well-drained soil; they are surface-rooted and dislike soil disturbance.
Propagate by division after flowering.
Seed can also be used but plants can be slow to flower.
Codiaeum variegata Local Name : Croton Family: Euphorbiaceae
This species occurs throughout the range of the genus, making a small tree with plain green leaves in the wild.
Cultivated forms, though, show enormous variation of leaf color and pattern with shades of green, red, yellow, orange and purple, sometimes on the one plant.
Some cultivars can grow to 8 ft (2.4 m) or more tall, with leaves up to 12 in (30 cm) long.
Cultivation: They prefer moist, humus-rich soil in sun or dappled shade.
Propagate from tip cuttings or by air-layering.
Cyperus involucratus Local Name : Rumput payung Family : Cyperaceae
Cyperus involucratus grows to about 3 ft (1 m) and sends up 3-cornered, hollow stalks crowned by a whorl of leaf-like bracts. The green flower spikes appear in summer. It is a densely tufted perennial from Madagascar.
Flowering colors: Green
Cultivation: Most ornamental species do well at waterÕs edge or in boggy ground.
Grow in rich compost and water well by standing the pot in a dish of water.
Direct sunlight is tolerated.
Repot when the plant fills the container.
If the tips turn brown, the atmosphere may be too dry, while a lack of new stems may indicate too little light. Propagate from seed or by division.
Cyrtostachys renda Local Name : Lipstick palm, Pinang merah Family : Palmae
The contrast between the rich green of the leaves and the brilliant scarlet of the glossy leaf bases makes this clumping feather palm from swampy lowlands of Malaysia and western Indonesia one of the most ornamental of all palms.
It needs constant hot weather for the color to develop properly.
The sealing wax palm grows to about 20 ft (6 m) tall and has the reputation of being rather difficult to transplant.
Cultivation: They require a tropical climate with year-round humidity to grow well, and rich, constantly moist soil.
Propagate from seed, which must be freshly gathered.
Datura innoxia Local name : Kecubung gunung Family : Leguminosaceae
Though sometimes classed with Brugmansia, this bushy perennial from Central America is in fact a true Datura.
It has pink or white flowers, the latter resembling those of Datura stramonium, but it is less poisonous, as its specific name suggests.
If grown as an annual it makes a bush a little under 3 ft (1 m) tall.
Other properties: Poisonous
Cultivation: They need full sun and fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Propagate from seed.
Delonix regia Local name : Flamboyant tree Family : Leguminosaceae
Propagate from seed or cuttings.
and may take 10 or more years to flower.
The vigorous roots can damage paths and foundations.
Seedlings vary considerably in flower shape, color and size,
Prune only when young to establish a single trunk.
This native of Madagascar grows only about 40 ft (12 m) tall, but its canopy may be wider than its height. The long, feathery leaves have lighter green undersides.
Clusters of brilliant red or orange flowers, with one white petal marked with yellow and red, appear in december, followed by dark brown pods up to 12 in (30 cm) long.
Flowering colors: Green, Orange, Red, White, Yellow
Cultivation: Plant in full sun in fertile, moist but well-drained soil & provide shelter from strong winds.
and may take 10 or more years to flower.
The vigorous roots can damage paths and foundations.
Seedlings vary considerably in flower shape, color and size,
Prune only when young to establish a single trunk.
This native of Madagascar grows only about 40 ft (12 m) tall, but its canopy may be wider than its height. The long, feathery leaves have lighter green undersides.
Clusters of brilliant red or orange flowers, with one white petal marked with yellow and red, appear in december, followed by dark brown pods up to 12 in (30 cm) long.
Flowering colors: Green, Orange, Red, White, Yellow
Cultivation: Plant in full sun in fertile, moist but well-drained soil & provide shelter from strong winds.
Dryopteris extensa Local Name : Wood fern Family :Polypodiaceae
This is a genus of about 200 species of deciduous or semi-evergreen terrestrial ferns.
Most cultivated species have fronds that are 2-4 times divided.
Many make excellent garden ferns and handsome pot plants.
Cultivation: Dryopteris species require part-shade and moist, humus-rich soil.
Remove fading fronds regularly.
Protect from wind damage and do not overwater established plants.
Propagate from spores or by division .
Duranta erecta Local name : Golden dewdrop Family: Verbenaceae
This species, with dense, slightly pendulous branches, can reach 15-20 ft (4.5-6 m) if trained to a single-trunked tree.
The flowers are a pale mauve-blue with darker streaks on the two lower petals and a cream eye, The fruits are1/2 in (12 mm) llong,.
The cultivar Variegata has cream-edged leaves.
The white-flowered Alba has almost entire leaves.
Flowering colors: Blue, Mauve, White
Cultivation:Duranta species are vigorous,
Grow in a fertile, well-drained soil in full sun.
They can be trained to become small trees or kept cut back as shrubs; they make useful hedges.
Propagate from seed or cuttings.
They may be bothered by whiteflies.
Echeveria crenulata Local name : Kayu bulan Family : Crassulaceae
Native to the Americas, This large genus contains over 150 speciesThey grow in perfectly symmetrical, basal rosettes or as multi-stemmed bushes up to 3 ft (1 m) tall. These plants have pulpy, usually, sleek-edged leaves that are particularly vivid during the colder months; some plants, for example, the hybrids Baron Bold and Delight have attractive crimped-edged leaves.
Bell-shaped to cylindrical flowers bloom at different times of the year.
Hardiness zone from 8 To 11.Flowering colors: Blue, Pink, Red, Scarlet, Yellow
Cultivation: Marginally frost hardy to frost tender, Echeveria requires full sun or semi-shade, very porous soil and plenty of water from spring to late summer reducing to little or none in winter. Propagate from seed, offsets or cuttings, or by division in spring and summer.
Bell-shaped to cylindrical flowers bloom at different times of the year.
Hardiness zone from 8 To 11.Flowering colors: Blue, Pink, Red, Scarlet, Yellow
Cultivation: Marginally frost hardy to frost tender, Echeveria requires full sun or semi-shade, very porous soil and plenty of water from spring to late summer reducing to little or none in winter. Propagate from seed, offsets or cuttings, or by division in spring and summer.
Eichornia crassipes Local name : Waterhyacint Family: Pontederiaceae
Water Hyacinths are the only large aquatic herb that can float on the water unattached to the bottom.
They float on bloated air-filled hollow leaf stalks. Their roots trail underwater in a dense mat.
The seeds are dispersed by birds and can remain viable for 15-20 years.
But the main method of reproduction is vegetatively, through stolons.
A single plant under ideal conditions can produce 3,000 others in 50 days and cover an area of 600 sq metres in a year.The fast-growing Water Hyacinth soon becomes a noxious weed outside its native habitat. Plants interlock in such a dense mass that a person could walk on it.
They clog waterways preventing river travel, block irrigation canals, destroy rice fields, ruin fishing grounds
They float on bloated air-filled hollow leaf stalks. Their roots trail underwater in a dense mat.
The seeds are dispersed by birds and can remain viable for 15-20 years.
But the main method of reproduction is vegetatively, through stolons.
A single plant under ideal conditions can produce 3,000 others in 50 days and cover an area of 600 sq metres in a year.The fast-growing Water Hyacinth soon becomes a noxious weed outside its native habitat. Plants interlock in such a dense mass that a person could walk on it.
They clog waterways preventing river travel, block irrigation canals, destroy rice fields, ruin fishing grounds
Epipremnum pictum Local name : Sirih belanda Family : Araceae
This is a slow-growing, woody stemmed, root climber to 10 ft (3 m) or more.
It is cultivated for its satiny dark green juvenile leaves which are heart-shaped with irregular silver spots.
Cultivation: Provide the support of a moss pole, and to encourage branching pinch out shoot tips.
Propagate from cuttings or by layering.
Epipremnum aureum Local name : Money plant Family: Araceae
Up to 60 ft (18 m) tall in its native forests of Malaysia to New Guinea, this species can easily be kept to a manageable size in cultivation. The juvenile leaves are oblong-lanceolate and usually entire, although they are sometimes perforated or pinnatifid.
The perforated, adult leaves are up to 3 ft (1 m) long by 18 in (45 cm) wide and often have translucent spots along the midrib. Aureum (syns Epipremnum aureum, Pothos aureus, Rhaphidophora aurea, Scindapsus aureus), devils ivy or pothos, has apple-green, heart-shaped leaves marbled with creamy white or gold.
Cultivation: Water regularly
Provide the support of a moss pole, and to encourage branching pinch out shoot tips.
Propagate from cuttings or by layer
The perforated, adult leaves are up to 3 ft (1 m) long by 18 in (45 cm) wide and often have translucent spots along the midrib. Aureum (syns Epipremnum aureum, Pothos aureus, Rhaphidophora aurea, Scindapsus aureus), devils ivy or pothos, has apple-green, heart-shaped leaves marbled with creamy white or gold.
Cultivation: Water regularly
Provide the support of a moss pole, and to encourage branching pinch out shoot tips.
Propagate from cuttings or by layer
Epipremnum pinnatum Local Name : Eastern rhododendron Family : Araceae
Up to 60 ft (18 m) tall in its native forests of Malaysia to New Guinea, this species can easily be kept to a manageable size in cultivation. The juvenile leaves are oblong-lanceolate and usually entire, although they are sometimes perforated or pinnatifid. The perforated, adult leaves are up to 3 ft (1 m) long by 18 in (45 cm) wide and often have translucent spots along the midrib. Aureum (syns Epipremnum aureum, Pothos aureus, Rhaphidophora aurea, Scindapsus aureus), devils ivy or pothos, has apple-green, heart-shaped leaves marbled with creamy white or gold.
Hardiness zone from 10 To 12
Plant Height From approx. 1000 To 1800 cm
Cultivation: Frost tender, most species are easy to grow indoors in bright, indirect light. Grow in a good, moisture-retentive potting mix. Water regularly during spring and summer, less in winter. Provide the support of a moss pole, and to encourage branching pinch out shoot tips. Propagate from cuttings or by layering.
Hardiness zone from 10 To 12
Plant Height From approx. 1000 To 1800 cm
Cultivation: Frost tender, most species are easy to grow indoors in bright, indirect light. Grow in a good, moisture-retentive potting mix. Water regularly during spring and summer, less in winter. Provide the support of a moss pole, and to encourage branching pinch out shoot tips. Propagate from cuttings or by layering.
Episcia cupriata Local name : Daun perak Family : Gesneriaceae
This evergreen creeper, native to America, grows to a height of about 6 ft (1.8 m).
The attractive, felted, bronze leaves have silver veins.
This plant intermittently produces tubular, scarlet flowers with yellow centers.
The cultivar Mosaica has dark, almost black leaves with an embossed appearance.
Cultivation: Plant in indirect light.
Poor light may result in few flowers.
They require constant warmth and humidity, so are well suited to a sunny bathroom or glassed area.
Keep moist at all times, but take care not to over-water as it leads to rotting.
Pinch back stems after flowering to encourage branching, and repot every year . Propagate by laying runners in compost, from cuttings or by division.
Euphorbia tirucalli Local name : Kayu urip Family : Euphorbiaceae
Generally shrubby succulent is from eastern and southern Africa as well as the Arabian peninsula.
Once used as a source of latex, it grows to a height and spread of about 10 ft (3 m), its twiggy stems covered with tiny, deciduous leaves.
The flowers are minute and insignificant.
Cultivation: Plant in sun or part-shade in moist, well-drained soil.
Propagate from cuttings , by division or from seed
note: The juice very poisonous for your skin,special take care for your eyes.
Euphorbia milii Local name : Mahkota duri Family : Euphorbiaceae
This slow-growing, ferociously thorny, semi-succulent shrub with bright green, obovate leaves is a native of Madagascar.
Deciduous in cooler areas, it is resistant to dry conditions and grows to a height of about 3 ft (1 m) and a spread of about 30 in (75 cm).
It is excellent in rock gardens or in cavities and is often used as a low hedge in coastal areas.
Throughout the year, and especially in spring, it bears tiny, yellowish flowers enveloped by bright red bracts.
Euphorbia milii var. splendens is a semi-prostrate form with oblong leaves. Somona produces orange-red flowers.
Flowering colors: Orange, Red, Yellow
Cultivation: Plant in sun or part-shade in moist, well-drained soil. Propagate from cuttings.
Deciduous in cooler areas, it is resistant to dry conditions and grows to a height of about 3 ft (1 m) and a spread of about 30 in (75 cm).
It is excellent in rock gardens or in cavities and is often used as a low hedge in coastal areas.
Throughout the year, and especially in spring, it bears tiny, yellowish flowers enveloped by bright red bracts.
Euphorbia milii var. splendens is a semi-prostrate form with oblong leaves. Somona produces orange-red flowers.
Flowering colors: Orange, Red, Yellow
Cultivation: Plant in sun or part-shade in moist, well-drained soil. Propagate from cuttings.
Euphorbia pulcherrima Local Name : Kastuba Family : Euphorbiaceae
Potted poinsettias are a familiar Christmas decoration all over the northern hemisphere, but this native of Mexico is only a garden plant in frost-free climates.
It makes a rather open shrub up to 12 ft (3.5 m) tall, usually dropping its leaves as flowering commences.
The broad bracts, which give each flower cluster the appearance of a single, huge flower, last many weeks.
There are many named cultivars, which extend the color range from the original blood red to pink and cream.
It is happiest in the tropics, and likes fertile soil and sunshine.
The leaves are large but not especially attractive.
Cultivation: Plant in sun or part-shade in moist, well-drained soil. Cold tolerance varies greatly depending on the species; the more highly succulent species are generally frost tender.
Propagate from cuttings, by division or from seed.
It makes a rather open shrub up to 12 ft (3.5 m) tall, usually dropping its leaves as flowering commences.
The broad bracts, which give each flower cluster the appearance of a single, huge flower, last many weeks.
There are many named cultivars, which extend the color range from the original blood red to pink and cream.
It is happiest in the tropics, and likes fertile soil and sunshine.
The leaves are large but not especially attractive.
Cultivation: Plant in sun or part-shade in moist, well-drained soil. Cold tolerance varies greatly depending on the species; the more highly succulent species are generally frost tender.
Propagate from cuttings, by division or from seed.
Galphimia glauca Local name : Hujan mas Family : Malpighiaceae
A small bushy shrub up to 1 mtr in height wich erect heads of small yellow flowers and very usefull in beds or large pots as it flowers continuously for months.
It needs full sun and a well drained soil,otherwise it becomes a subject to attack by a bacterial disease..
Propagation is easely from seeds wich are produced freely.
Gardenia augusta Local name : Cape jasmine, Kaca piring Family : Rubiaceae
Gardenia augusta is the best known species of the genus, an evergreen, glossy-leafed shrub from southern China, though long supposed native to the Cape of Good Hope, hence the name Cape jasmine.
It is almost always seen in gardens and flower shops in one of its double-flowered cultivars, all with white, strongly perfumed flowers which change to pale yellow as they age.
The best known is Florida, a 3 ft (1 m) tall shrub with flowers about 3 in (8 cm) wide; Magnifica is larger in all its parts though less generous with its flowers; Radicans is almost prostrate, with small flowers and leaves.
Flowers appear over a long season from late spring.
Cultivation: They need well-drained, slightly acidic soil and prefer light shade.
Generous water in the warmer months and a regular dressing of compost and fertilizer ensures good flowering and keeps foliage a deep glossy green.
Gardenias are easily propagated from cuttings .
It is almost always seen in gardens and flower shops in one of its double-flowered cultivars, all with white, strongly perfumed flowers which change to pale yellow as they age.
The best known is Florida, a 3 ft (1 m) tall shrub with flowers about 3 in (8 cm) wide; Magnifica is larger in all its parts though less generous with its flowers; Radicans is almost prostrate, with small flowers and leaves.
Flowers appear over a long season from late spring.
Cultivation: They need well-drained, slightly acidic soil and prefer light shade.
Generous water in the warmer months and a regular dressing of compost and fertilizer ensures good flowering and keeps foliage a deep glossy green.
Gardenias are easily propagated from cuttings .
Gomphrena globosa Local name: Bunga kancing Family: Amaranthaceae
A good bedding plant, this bushy annual from Southeast Asia reaches a height of up to 24 in (60 cm).
It has oval, hairy leaves and produces flowerheads in shades of pink, purple, yellow, orange or white .
These papery, pompon-like flowerheads are attractive when dried: cut flowering stems just before blooms are fully open and hang upside down in a cool, well-ventilated place until dry.
Cultivation: They require a sunny position, reasonably fertile, well-drained soil and plenty of water during active growth.
The plants benefit from mulching in hot weather.
Propagate from seed .
Helianthus anuus Local Name : Sunflower Family: Compositae
This fast-growing, upright annual can reach a height of 10 ft (3 m) or more.
Large, daisy-like, 12 in (30 cm) wide yellow flowerheads with brown centers are borne in summer. They are coarse, leggy plants with heavily veined, mid-green leaves.
This species produces one of the worldÕs most important oilseeds.
It can be a little unwieldy, but numerous garden varieties have been developed that grow to a more manageable size, about 6 ft (1.8 m), including Autumn Beauty with medium-sized flowers usually brownish red, deep red, light yellow or golden yellow; and Teddy Bear, a compact grower with double, dark yellow flowers.
Flowering colors: Brown, Red, Yellow
Cultivation:Tthey prefer full sun and protection from wind. Propagate from seed.
Large, daisy-like, 12 in (30 cm) wide yellow flowerheads with brown centers are borne in summer. They are coarse, leggy plants with heavily veined, mid-green leaves.
This species produces one of the worldÕs most important oilseeds.
It can be a little unwieldy, but numerous garden varieties have been developed that grow to a more manageable size, about 6 ft (1.8 m), including Autumn Beauty with medium-sized flowers usually brownish red, deep red, light yellow or golden yellow; and Teddy Bear, a compact grower with double, dark yellow flowers.
Flowering colors: Brown, Red, Yellow
Cultivation:Tthey prefer full sun and protection from wind. Propagate from seed.
Heliconia Local name : Heliconia Family: Compositae
From tropical America, Southeast Asia and some Pacific Islands, these beautiful, exotic plants have large leaves and spikes of colorful bracts enclosing relatively insignificant flowers.
There are around 100 evergreen perennial species and hybrids in this genus, which is related to bananas and strelitzias.
Planted en masse, heliconias create an eye-catching show of color all year round.
The leaves are spoon-shaped and grow to 6 ft (1.8 m) long. Heliconias make excellent cut flowers.
Flowering colors: Cream, Green, Orange, Pink, Red, Scarlet, White, Yellow
Cultivation: Plant in humus-rich, well-drained soil in filtered sun and with summer humidity.
Water well during the growing season.
To encourage new growth remove all dead leaves and flowers. Propagate by division of rootstock , ensuring there are two shoots on each division.
There are around 100 evergreen perennial species and hybrids in this genus, which is related to bananas and strelitzias.
Planted en masse, heliconias create an eye-catching show of color all year round.
The leaves are spoon-shaped and grow to 6 ft (1.8 m) long. Heliconias make excellent cut flowers.
Flowering colors: Cream, Green, Orange, Pink, Red, Scarlet, White, Yellow
Cultivation: Plant in humus-rich, well-drained soil in filtered sun and with summer humidity.
Water well during the growing season.
To encourage new growth remove all dead leaves and flowers. Propagate by division of rootstock , ensuring there are two shoots on each division.
Hibiscus Local name : Bunga raya Family : Malvaceae
Also known as the national flower of Malaysia, the genus name conjures up the innumerable cultivars of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, perhaps the most widely grown and admired of all flowering shrubs in tropical and subtropical gardens, the genus is large and diverse, including hot-climate evergreen shrubs and small trees and also a few deciduous, temperate-zone shrubs and some annuals and perennials.
The most important of these is H. esculentus, a bushy, warm-climate annual whose immature fruit are the okra or gumbo so popular in Creole cooking.
Flowering colors: Blue, Brown, Crimson, Mauve, Orange, Pink, Red, Scarlet, Violet, White, Yellow
Cultivation: Easy to grow, the shrubby species thrive in sun and slightly acid, well-drained soil.
Water regularly and fertilize during flowering.
Trim after flowering to maintain shape. Propagation is from seed or cuttings or by division, depending on the species.
Hippeastrum amaryllis Local name : Kembang torong Family : Amaryllidaceae
These spectacular trumpet-shaped tropical lilies, indigenous to South America, are cultivated virtually everywhere as pot plants.
There are more than 80 species but it is the intensely developed hybrids that are most often grown.
These have been bred mainly by the Dutch and are known as Dutch hybrids; they include Apple Blossom and Cocktail. Other striking cultivars include Carnival, Desert Dawn, the beautiful red Kalahari and Red Lion. The flowers can be up to 12 (30 cm) across and are borne, before the leaves develop, in clusters of 3 or 4 atop a large hollow stem.
Colors include white, pink, red and pink, and red streaked with white.
They generally grow to 18 in (45 cm) high and 12 in (30 cm) wide.Bulbs should be planted in fall (autumn) in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with just the tip of the bulb exposed, in full sun or part-shade.
Water and feed well through the growing season and allow the bulb to dry after the foliage dies down.
There are more than 80 species but it is the intensely developed hybrids that are most often grown.
These have been bred mainly by the Dutch and are known as Dutch hybrids; they include Apple Blossom and Cocktail. Other striking cultivars include Carnival, Desert Dawn, the beautiful red Kalahari and Red Lion. The flowers can be up to 12 (30 cm) across and are borne, before the leaves develop, in clusters of 3 or 4 atop a large hollow stem.
Colors include white, pink, red and pink, and red streaked with white.
They generally grow to 18 in (45 cm) high and 12 in (30 cm) wide.Bulbs should be planted in fall (autumn) in well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with just the tip of the bulb exposed, in full sun or part-shade.
Water and feed well through the growing season and allow the bulb to dry after the foliage dies down.
Hyophorbe lagenicaulis Local name : Bottle palm Family: Palmae
This slow-growing species is probably the most popular due to its prominently swollen, bottle-shaped trunk.
Even mature specimens usually have fewer than 10 fronds which gives the palm an attractive and elegant silhouette.
It is almost extinct in the wild but its popularity in tropical gardens ensures its survival.
Position: Sunny, Semi-Shaded
Cultivation: They prefer lowland tropical or subtropical climates .
In their native ranges, these palms grow in fertile volcanic soil but in gardens they will do well in any reasonably fertile soil that drains well.
They are usually grown in full sun but will tolerate part-shade. Propagate from seed .
Even mature specimens usually have fewer than 10 fronds which gives the palm an attractive and elegant silhouette.
It is almost extinct in the wild but its popularity in tropical gardens ensures its survival.
Position: Sunny, Semi-Shaded
Cultivation: They prefer lowland tropical or subtropical climates .
In their native ranges, these palms grow in fertile volcanic soil but in gardens they will do well in any reasonably fertile soil that drains well.
They are usually grown in full sun but will tolerate part-shade. Propagate from seed .
Impatiens balsamina Local name : Garden balsem Family: Balsaminaceae
Origin from from India, China and Malaysia is an erect, bushy annual that grows fairly quickly to a height of 12Ð18 in (30Ð45 cm) with a spread of 8Ð10 in (20Ð25 cm). It has lance-shaped bright green leaves and produces small, camellia-like single or double spurred flowers throughout summer and early fall (autumn). Colors include blood red, purple-red, pink and white; some flowers are spotted. Impatiens balsamina is marginally frost hardy and is a good species for bedding displays in sunny situations.
Hardiness zone from 9 To 12
Cultivation: Fully frost hardy to frost tender, they will grow in sun or part-shade; many species do well under overhanging trees. They prefer a moist but freely drained soil, and need protection from strong winds. Tip prune the fast-growing shoots to encourage shrubby growth and more abundant flowers. Propagate from seed or stem cuttings in spring or summer
Ipomoea quamoclit Local name : Cypress vine Family : Convolvulaceae
Cypress-vine is a very attractive twining morning-glory with smooth stems, lacy leaves and scarlet flowers. The leaves are 7.5-10 cm 3-4" long and feather-like, finely divided pinnately into threadlike segments. The scarlet red (rarely white) flowers are tubular, about 4 cm 1.5" long, and flare out at the mouth into a five-pointed star. Under ideal conditions the vine can climb to 6 mtr 20' or more, but it is always a dainty, fragile vine and not at all aggressive.
Cypress-vine is native to Mexico and tropical America .
Light: Full sun to partial shade.
Moisture: Needs well-drained soil. Tolerates drought, but grows best and produces the most flowers if well-watered.
Propagation: By seeds. Cypress-vine will self-sow from seeds .
Cypress-vine is an excellent source of nectar for butterflies and hummingbirds.
The seeds are relatively large, easy to handle and take only 4 days to sprout; the cotyledons (seed leaves) are large and distinctive, looking like swept-back airplane wings; the next leaves to appear are the handsome feathery leaves that distinguish the plant; the vine grows quickly, producing beautiful scarlet flowers in less than 30 days.
Then the butterflies and hummingbirds come!
Cypress-vine is native to Mexico and tropical America .
Light: Full sun to partial shade.
Moisture: Needs well-drained soil. Tolerates drought, but grows best and produces the most flowers if well-watered.
Propagation: By seeds. Cypress-vine will self-sow from seeds .
Cypress-vine is an excellent source of nectar for butterflies and hummingbirds.
The seeds are relatively large, easy to handle and take only 4 days to sprout; the cotyledons (seed leaves) are large and distinctive, looking like swept-back airplane wings; the next leaves to appear are the handsome feathery leaves that distinguish the plant; the vine grows quickly, producing beautiful scarlet flowers in less than 30 days.
Then the butterflies and hummingbirds come!
Iresine herbstii Local name : Miyana mangkuk Family : Amaranthaceae
Native to Brazil, this species makes an attractive tropical bedding or pot plant.
It grows to 24 in (60 cm) tall with a spread of 18 in (45 cm).
It has red stems and rounded purple-red leaves up to 4 in (10 cm) long, with notches at the tips and yellowish red veins.
Garden forms have a range of colors:from bright green leaves with bright yellow veins through to cultivars such as Brilliantissima with its rich purple-green leaves with beetroot-pink veins.
Cultivation: They prefer good loamy, well-drained soil and must be kept moist during the growth period. They also need bright light, with some sun, to retain the brilliant color in their leaves.
Tips should be pinched out in the growing season to encourage bushy plants.
Propagate from cuttings.
Ixora coccinea Local name : Jungle flame Family : Rubiaceae
From tropical regions of Africa, Asia and islands of the Pacific, this is a large genus of about 150 species of evergreen shrubs and small trees with spectacular heads of scarlet, orange, yellow, pink or white flowers.
They have glossy, lime green leaves and rough, gray branches.
In Asia, the roots of ixoras are used to make a medicine said to alleviate stomach ailments and cure dysentery.
These shrubs are used for massed bedding, hedges and screens, and can be grown in containers.
Flowering colors: Orange, Pink, Red, Scarlet, White, Yellow
Cultivation: they appreciate a part-shaded position,
Light pruning after flowering will maintain shape; spent flowerheads should also be removed. Propagate from cuttings or from seed
They have glossy, lime green leaves and rough, gray branches.
In Asia, the roots of ixoras are used to make a medicine said to alleviate stomach ailments and cure dysentery.
These shrubs are used for massed bedding, hedges and screens, and can be grown in containers.
Flowering colors: Orange, Pink, Red, Scarlet, White, Yellow
Cultivation: they appreciate a part-shaded position,
Light pruning after flowering will maintain shape; spent flowerheads should also be removed. Propagate from cuttings or from seed
Kalanchoe blesfeldiana Local name : Flaming katy Family : Crassulaceae
This small, shrubby African species reaches 12 in (30 cm) in height and spread.
Its multiple, upstretched branches are covered with round to rectangular, deep green leaves with red margins and notched tips.
Thick racemes of little, deep red, cylindrical flowers appear from winter to early summer; cultivated strains may be pink, yellow and also orange.
It i requires part-shade, and is a popular pot plant.
Flowering colors: Orange, Pink, Red, Yellow
Cultivation : These succulents need full sun or part-shade and well-drained soil, and only light watering .
Propagate from stem or leaf cuttings
Kalanchoe daigremontiana Local name : Mother of thousands Family : Crassulaceae
This kalanchoe is one of 130 species of which there are annuals, biennials, and perennial succulents. The Mother of Thousands is a perennial, sometimes also called the Devil's Backbone, or Mexican Hat Plant. The "babies" are adventitious plantlets on the toothed margins of the leaf.
This plant can live for years and grow to three feet but it is a good idea to renew the often leggy plant with the newer plantlets. They tend to get top heavy.
The Mother of Thousands is a very drought resistant and can be totally ignored.
Potting soil should be on the dry and sandy side, well drained, similar to a commercial cactus mix.
Generally this plant will grow with one straight stem but may branch out if the top shoots are cut off.
Propagation is done by the tiny plantlets. Just by laying a mature leaf on a bed of moist sandy soil the plantlets will root in. Or, you can just take the plantlets off the leaf and place them on the soil.
Kalanchoes requires good bright light if not full sun and not the best of soil nor fertilizing......
This plant can live for years and grow to three feet but it is a good idea to renew the often leggy plant with the newer plantlets. They tend to get top heavy.
The Mother of Thousands is a very drought resistant and can be totally ignored.
Potting soil should be on the dry and sandy side, well drained, similar to a commercial cactus mix.
Generally this plant will grow with one straight stem but may branch out if the top shoots are cut off.
Propagation is done by the tiny plantlets. Just by laying a mature leaf on a bed of moist sandy soil the plantlets will root in. Or, you can just take the plantlets off the leaf and place them on the soil.
Kalanchoes requires good bright light if not full sun and not the best of soil nor fertilizing......
Livistona chinensis Local name : Chinese fan palm Family: Palmae
This attractive fan palm from the Philippines and Indonesia grows to 80 ft (24 m).
It has spherical scarlet fruit that eventually ripens black and will grow in moist soil in the tropics.
The seed remains viable for a longer period than most palms, and it can be grown from seed in a deep container.
Cultivation: Slow growing, they prefer deep, sandy soil and, while they tolerate full sun, they produce more vigorous, deeper green foliage in dappled shade.
They make excellent indoor or outdoor container plants.
Propagate from seed .
It has spherical scarlet fruit that eventually ripens black and will grow in moist soil in the tropics.
The seed remains viable for a longer period than most palms, and it can be grown from seed in a deep container.
Cultivation: Slow growing, they prefer deep, sandy soil and, while they tolerate full sun, they produce more vigorous, deeper green foliage in dappled shade.
They make excellent indoor or outdoor container plants.
Propagate from seed .
Maranta leuconera Local name : Daun lumut Family : Maranthaceae
This variable species contains most of the best foliage forms of this genus.
It usually grows to about 12 in (30 cm) in height and spread and produces its inconspicuous white flowers with foliate spots in slender spikes during summer.
The dark green leaves are usually about 6 in (15 cm) long.
They have silver veins and the reverse side can be purple or gray-green.
In the cultivar Erythroneura, the herringbone plant, the leaves are velvety and very dark black-green with a brilliant green irregular zone along the midrib.
It also has bright pink veins and a deep red reverse. Kerchoviana, known as rabbit tracks, has oval, light green leaves with brown blotches on either side of the central vein; the insignificant white to mauve flowers appear intermittently.
Flowering colors: Mauve, White
Cultivation: They like humidity and bright light without direct sunlight.
In tropical areas they can make a good ground cover under large trees.
Propagation is usually done by dividing established clumps or from basal cuttings struck on bottom heat.
It usually grows to about 12 in (30 cm) in height and spread and produces its inconspicuous white flowers with foliate spots in slender spikes during summer.
The dark green leaves are usually about 6 in (15 cm) long.
They have silver veins and the reverse side can be purple or gray-green.
In the cultivar Erythroneura, the herringbone plant, the leaves are velvety and very dark black-green with a brilliant green irregular zone along the midrib.
It also has bright pink veins and a deep red reverse. Kerchoviana, known as rabbit tracks, has oval, light green leaves with brown blotches on either side of the central vein; the insignificant white to mauve flowers appear intermittently.
Flowering colors: Mauve, White
Cultivation: They like humidity and bright light without direct sunlight.
In tropical areas they can make a good ground cover under large trees.
Propagation is usually done by dividing established clumps or from basal cuttings struck on bottom heat.
Medinilla magnifica Local name : Medinilla Family: Melastomaceae
This erect shrub to 6 ft (1.8 m) tall is usually found as an epiphyte in its Philippine homeland. Its stems may be ribbed or even winged and its rich glossy green leaves grow to about 12 in (30 cm) long and have obvious paler veins. Its small pink flowers are produced throughout spring and summer in long pendulous panicles to 18 in (45 cm); these are made even more obvious because of the large pink bracts attached to the flower clusters.
Hardiness zone from 11 To 12
Cultivation: Most species only grow outdoors in the tropics. They can be cultivated as greenhouse and house plants, but they will not tolerate winter minimums below 64¡F (18¡C). Plant in rich, moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil in part-shade. Water and feed well in the growing season. Propagate from seed or cuttings.
Microsorum scolopendrium Local name : Wart fern Family : Polypodioceae
Probably the most widespread species, being found in tropical Africa through Asia to Australasia and the islands of Polynesia, this species has broad, tonque-shaped fronds that are light green and deeply cut.
The fronds sprout from a spreading rhizome.
Cultivation: Like most fern species moist, well-drained, cool, shaded aspects suit them best. Because of their creeping habits they can be grown up a trunk, particularly that of a tree fern, or grown in hanging baskets which they will engulf.
Propagate by dividing rooted rhizo
Mirabilis jalapa Local name : Bunga pukul empat Family : Nyctaginaceae
This bushy tuberous perennial, native to tropical America, is grown for its fragrant, trumpet-shaped, crimson, pink, white or yellow flowers that open in late afternoon and remain open all night, closing again at dawn. It is good as a pot or bedding plant or as a dwarf hedge. It is summer flowering and grows to around 3 ft (1 m) high with a spread of 24-30 in (60-75 cm).
Flowering colors: Crimson, Pink, White, Yellow
Other properties: Fragrant
Cultivation: In frost-free to dry tropical climates they are quite easy plants to grow. All that is required is a sunny, well-drained aspect. In colder climates the tubers of perennial species can be lifted and stored over winter like dahlias. Propagate from seed or by division of the tubers.
Monstera obligata Local name : Window leaf Family : Araceae
This is a group of often very large-growing evergreen tropical climbers, usually with long aerial roots and often epiphytic or becoming so as they clamber up forest trees. The foliage has both juvenile and adult forms: juvenile leaves are usually much smaller and entire, often growing flat to the trunk of the host plant; adult leaves are much larger and often perforated. The flowers consist of a spathe to 18 in (45 cm) long that sometimes sheds and is usually white or greenish cream. The fruits, which often mature to white, are in some species edible. They are native to tropical America and the West Indies.
Hardiness zone from 10 To 12
Flowering colors: Cream, Green, White
Cultivation: Species of Monstera are usually grown as indoor plants in all but tropical countries, where they can grow to 70 ft (21 m) or more. They can be controlled by pruning. They prefer part-shade and humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil.
Propagate from ripe seed or cuttings or by layering.
Nephrolepis cordifolia Local name : Sword fern Family : Polypodioceae
Naturally found among rocks at the edges of rainforests, this fast-growing fern can survive in fairly dry and dark positions as well as in full sun.
It is one of the toughest species in cultivation and a very easily grown plantÑso much so that it can become a pest. Fronds grow to 3 ft (1 m). Plumosa is a slow-growing cultivar with lobed pinnae.
Position: Sunny, Shaded, Semi-Shaded
Cultivation: They are extremely tolerant of dry conditions and are fast growing, provided they are given enough room to spread out and have well-composted, moist soil.
Propagate from spores or tissue culture, or by division.
Nerium oleander Local name : Bunga jepun Family: Apocynaceae
Depending on the cultivar selected, these plants can grow from 6-12 ft (1.8-3.5 m) tall. As the species is often used for hedging, it is wise to keep the varying growth habits of the cultivars in mind if a uniform appearance is wanted.
The blooms can be single or double, and some cultivars have variegated foliage.
Some popular cultivars include Album with single, white flowers and a cream center; Little Red with single red flowers; Luteum Plenum with creamy yellow double flowers; Mrs Fred Roeding with salmon-pink double blooms and a relatively small growth habit; Petite Pink with single pale pink flowers and growing only to 3-6 ft (1-1.8 m) tall; Punctatum, a vigorous plant with single, pale pink blooms; Splendens Variegatum with pink double flowers and variegated gold-green foliage borne at the expense of the profuse flowering habit of its parent Splendens; Algiers has flowers with the darkest red color available; and those of Madonna Grandiflora are double and white. Casablanca (syn. Monica) has single, very pale pink, almost white flowers.
Flowering colors: Cream, Pink, Red, White, Yellow
Cultivation: Plant these shrubs in full sun and in well-drained soil.
Propagate from seed or from cuttings.
The blooms can be single or double, and some cultivars have variegated foliage.
Some popular cultivars include Album with single, white flowers and a cream center; Little Red with single red flowers; Luteum Plenum with creamy yellow double flowers; Mrs Fred Roeding with salmon-pink double blooms and a relatively small growth habit; Petite Pink with single pale pink flowers and growing only to 3-6 ft (1-1.8 m) tall; Punctatum, a vigorous plant with single, pale pink blooms; Splendens Variegatum with pink double flowers and variegated gold-green foliage borne at the expense of the profuse flowering habit of its parent Splendens; Algiers has flowers with the darkest red color available; and those of Madonna Grandiflora are double and white. Casablanca (syn. Monica) has single, very pale pink, almost white flowers.
Flowering colors: Cream, Pink, Red, White, Yellow
Cultivation: Plant these shrubs in full sun and in well-drained soil.
Propagate from seed or from cuttings.
Pachystachus lutea Local name : Bunga lilin Family: Acanthaceae
This small, shrubby plant forms a clump of upright stems with a candle of bright golden yellow bracts at the tip of each stem.
The creamy white flowers within do not reveal themselves until the bracts are fully developed.
The leaves are a deep matt green, lance-shaped, up to 6 in (15 cm) long, with prominent veins.
Flowering colors: Cream, White, Yellow
Cultivation: They require full sun and fertile, moist but well-drained soil.
If used as indoor plants they prefer warm, well-lit, humid conditions.
Propagate from seed or cuttings.
Pedilanthus tithymaloides Local name : Zig zag plant Family: Euphorbiaceae
This slow-growing succulent from the West Indies can reach 6 ft (1.8 m) in cultivation.
The fleshy, erect stems change direction at each node, hence the name zigzag plant.
The leaves are mid-green and sprout from the stems in two rows, resembling ribs on a backbone.
Variegated cultivars are popular.
Showy red bracts encase small, scarlet flowers.
The stems, when cut, secrete a poisonous milky sap.
Cultivation: They prefer well-drained soil and full sun or part-shade.
Propagate from cuttings
Platycerium bifurcatum Local name : Staghorn fern Family: Polypodioceae
This genus is common to the tropics and subtropics of Africa, Southeast Asia and Australia, The 15 species are epiphytic ferns with hanging, spore-bearing divided leaves, which may be 6 ft (1.8 m) long.
They are valued for their dramatic appearance.
Cultivation: They can be grown as epiphytes by tying them onto boards that are then attached to a trellis or tree, or grown in baskets.
The sterile nest leaves catch leaf litter and other vegetable matter so that the roots eventually grow into the debris and are protected from wind.
The base of the plants should be kept moist.
Fertilize with blood and bone or old manure.
Propagate by division .
Watch for beetles and moths.
They are valued for their dramatic appearance.
Cultivation: They can be grown as epiphytes by tying them onto boards that are then attached to a trellis or tree, or grown in baskets.
The sterile nest leaves catch leaf litter and other vegetable matter so that the roots eventually grow into the debris and are protected from wind.
The base of the plants should be kept moist.
Fertilize with blood and bone or old manure.
Propagate by division .
Watch for beetles and moths.
Polyalthia longifolia Local name : Indian mast tree Family: Annonaceae
Originating from Sri Lanka, this has become one of the most popular park and avenue trees of tropical Asia.
It has a striking narrowly conical or columnar habit sometimes almost pole-like, with a curtain of long, glossy green leaves with slightly wavy edges concealing all but the base of the trunk.
New foliage flushes are at first yellowish then bronzy green.
Small greenish yellow flowers are borne in the wet season (summer) but are hidden under the foliage, and the small plum-like fruits are eaten only by animals such as fruit-bats.
Cultivation: Plant in moist, well-drained soil and shade when young.
Propagate from seed or cuttings.
It has a striking narrowly conical or columnar habit sometimes almost pole-like, with a curtain of long, glossy green leaves with slightly wavy edges concealing all but the base of the trunk.
New foliage flushes are at first yellowish then bronzy green.
Small greenish yellow flowers are borne in the wet season (summer) but are hidden under the foliage, and the small plum-like fruits are eaten only by animals such as fruit-bats.
Cultivation: Plant in moist, well-drained soil and shade when young.
Propagate from seed or cuttings.
Polypodium punctatum Local name : Polypodium Family: Polypodioceae
This widespread, mainly temperate northern hemisphere fern genus includes some 75 species. They may be epiphytic or terrestrial and a few species grow on rocks. They have scaly, red-brown, creeping rhizomes and long-stemmed, light to mid-green, pinnate or bipinnate fronds usually less than 30Êin (75Êcm) long. They are inclined to produce cristate fronds and other unusual forms, which were very popular with Victorian collectors.
Plant Height From approx. 30 To 60 cm
Cultivation: Hardiness varies considerably with the species, otherwise they are easily grown in any moist, well-drained soil in dappled shade. Additional humus promotes lush foliage. Propagate by division or by sowing spores.
Portulaca grandiflora Local name: Cantik manis Family: Portulacaceae
There are about 100 species of semi-succulent annuals or perennials in this genus, indigenous to the warm, dry regions of the world.
The fleshy leaves vary in color from white to green or red, but it is for their flowers that they are growncup-shaped, white, yellow, apricot, pink, purple or scarlet and resembling roses in form.
Flowering colors: Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, Scarlet, White, Yellow
Cultivation: They are easily grown in all climates.
Because they are plants of the deserts they need sun, well-drained soil and only occasional watering.
Propagate from seed or cuttings .
Watch for aphids.
The fleshy leaves vary in color from white to green or red, but it is for their flowers that they are growncup-shaped, white, yellow, apricot, pink, purple or scarlet and resembling roses in form.
Flowering colors: Orange, Pink, Purple, Red, Scarlet, White, Yellow
Cultivation: They are easily grown in all climates.
Because they are plants of the deserts they need sun, well-drained soil and only occasional watering.
Propagate from seed or cuttings .
Watch for aphids.
Pseuderanthenum reticulatum Local name : Golden net bush Family: Acanthaceae
This shrub from Vanuatu grows to a height and spread of 3 ft (1 m).
The showy foliage varies from green to purplish black with oval leaves growing to 6 in (15 cm); these have an intricate network of golden veins and undulating edges.
Large flower spikes at the ends of the branches hold several tubular white blossoms with cerise markings in the centers.
It thrives in hot climates, and prefers protection from winds.
Flowering colors: Red, White
Cultivation: Well-drained, moist and composted soil in part-shade ensures healthy growth and a good flowering display.
Tip prune to encourage bushiness or, if the plants become too straggly, cut back hard..
Propagate year-round from seed or by division.
Quisqualis indica Local name : Rangoon creeper Family : Combretaceae
This strong-growing, evergreen creeper can reach 70 ft (21 m) in tropical areas.
The tubular flowers are strongly fragrant, especially at night, opening white and deepening to pink and then red throughout summer.
It needs a sturdy support and is useful for covering fences, walls and pergolas.
Cut back old stems and remove spent flowers.
Plant Height approx. 2100 cm
Flowering colors: Pink, Red, White
Cultivation: Grow these frost-tender plants in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part-shade.
The stems may need support; pinch out overgrowth in spring.
Propagate from seed or cuttings or by layering.
The tubular flowers are strongly fragrant, especially at night, opening white and deepening to pink and then red throughout summer.
It needs a sturdy support and is useful for covering fences, walls and pergolas.
Cut back old stems and remove spent flowers.
Plant Height approx. 2100 cm
Flowering colors: Pink, Red, White
Cultivation: Grow these frost-tender plants in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part-shade.
The stems may need support; pinch out overgrowth in spring.
Propagate from seed or cuttings or by layering.
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Information from this source is for educational purpose, is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence.
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The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA. These supplements mentioned are not intended to cure, treat, diagnose or prevent disease. The contents of this website are for informational purposes only.
Kelab Rakan-Rakan Herba KK Sabah does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Information from this source is for educational purpose, is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence.
Site design and webmaster : Ganesan. T Questions or concerns can be directed to the webmaster at [email protected]