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PALM TREE, CYCAD & TROPICAL PLANT BLOG
PLANTS FOR SALE

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NURSERY LOCATION - ENCINITAS, CALIFORNIA
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THIS PAGE HAS CURRENT POSTS FOR NOVEMBER - DECEMBER, 2022

REMINDER: POSTS HERE UPDATED EVERY SEVERAL DAYS, SO RETURN
FREQUENTLY/ LOTS OF OUR FAMOUS BLOG ONLY "TEN DAY SPECIALS" BELOW.

HOW THIS BLOG WORKS

New plant arrivals, desirable species and requested plants included
New species described every few days, most recent posts at top of thread
Jump to older Blog Threads from links below.
Blog discusses palm trees, cycads and tropical plants

LEARN ABOUT PALM TREES AND CYCADS
Brief comments given below. We trim this thread frequently to maintain 30 day run.
Information on sun requirements and cold tolerance given if available
Pictures of mature specimens shown when possible
In depth posts with lots of photos on some species

PRICING ON PLANTS SHOWN
On some plants, pricing given with the post
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PALM PRICES OR CYCAD PRICES SPECIALS AND SALES
Specials below apply to drop in visits or mail orders. Photos are representative.
All specials have a termination date and always expire when the current thread expires
Ten Day Specials  expire ten days after date of posting and are marked in red color.
For any sale prices, you must mention all Blog Only Sale Prices when purchasing

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Phil Bergman, Blog author

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CUSTOMER FACE MASKS ARE PRESENTLY NOT REQUIRED AT JUNGLE MUSIC

END OF THE YEAR SALE
GOING ON RIGHT NOW
ENDS SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17TH

OUR BEST SALE OF THE YEAR
BIGGEST DISCOUNTS

CLICK TO SEE SALE

We at Jungle Music have been super busy with our End of the Year Sale.
This Sale includes our best discounts of the year on all of our inventory.
Our Blog New Arrivals page will temporarily be a bit more slim, but we'll do our best to keep it up.
Do click above to see our sale. I think it's worth your time.
Prices may even be better than you see here.

Phil Bergman
Blog Author and Owner of the Nursery

FRIDAY, 2 DECEMBER, 2022

GASTROCOCOS CRISPA
AKA ACROCOMIA CRISPA
THE CUBAN BELLY PALM

SPINY PINNATE PALM
CENTRAL TRUNK SWOLLEN

Native to various areas of Cuba, this single trunk spiny palm is most known for the prominent bulge in the central trunk as shown here. The spines on the trunk are variable. Some older plants seem to lose their spines whereas others keep them. See the photos below. I've shown some photos that definitely show the bulge in the trunk.

Heights can get to over thirty feet, crowns are full, leaves are plumose and overall appearance of the trees are very interesting. This is a full sun species that can be grown in frost free areas of Southern California. We probably have some smaller sizes available presently. BTW, I am old fashioned and really like the old name of Gastrococos crispa.

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS
EXAMPLES OF MEDIUM SIZED PLANTS FOR SALE

GREEN TO BLUE GREEN LEAVES
LOVES SUN - RE-CURVED LEAVES

Encephalartos longifolius is from the Eastern Cape region of the Republic of South Africa. It is among the favorite species of all cycad enthusiasts. Leaf color varies from a dark green to brilliant blue - and everything in-between. The plants shown here both have caudexes about 8 inches. This is a full sun species along the coast with a cold hardiness of 22 degrees F. These plants will develop into medium sized mature cycads over the years with potential for trunk in a lifetime of at least five feet. We have a whole assortment of sizes available from sale - both larger and smaller. The last row of photos shows plants that are the blue form. Most of our sizes can be mail ordered or delivered.

CHAMAEDOREA ERNESTI-AUGUSTI
SINGLE STEM, SIMPLE LEAF DWARF SHADE PALM

MATURE FRUITING COLONY IN 10 GALLON
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT

Shown below is a private collection plant with both sexes of this great understory single trunk palm that rarrely gets over about six feet tall. Characteristics are shown below. I only have this one specimen. To read about a ton of species in this genus, click highlighted link below.

REGULAR PRICE THIS 10 GALLON COLONY $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL GROUPING $220

Locality:	Mexico and northern Central America
Cold Hardiness:	28 to 30, F.
Trunk type:	Thin, single trunk; miniature species usually chest height or shorter
Leaf type:	Simple, bifid type
Suckering/Solitary:	Solitary, (single trunk).
Maintenance:	Easy, likes shade
Speed of growth:	Medium, remembering that it never gets tall
Height:	Head height, to six feet
Soil requirements:	Good drainage and ample water
Sun Requirements:	Shade or strong filtered
General Description:	A gorgeous small palm that looks good in clumps of multiple plants. A nice "filler plant" for that special shady area.
Other Notes:	Makes nice houseplant
Further Data:	Recommended: Chamaedorea Palms, The Species

RHOPALOSTYLIS HYBRID
SAPIDA X BAUERI

SHOWING HYBRID VIGOR - SHOULD BE A WINNER!
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

For those of you with growing experience, you understand that palms, even monoecious palms, can hybridize. We got in some plants and were told that they were "sapida". But, looking at them you'll know they are not pure sapida. Seeds came off a Rhopalostylis sapida seed bearing tree. The dark petioles (brown) and downward flexing leaves show that they are a hybrid - baueri blood. Sorry, but I have no photos of a mature garden tree of this hybrid. They can take part day sun or filtered light in most areas. Cold hardiness will be about 20 degrees F. I'm not showing a mature photo of this hybrid as I don't have any pictures of mature garden plants.

REGULAR PRICE 15G THIS HYBRID $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $188

Mention this Blog Special to get this price.

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM
THIS SPECIES WANTS SUN AND HEAT!
TEN DAY SPECIAL VERY NICE 15G PLANTS

For several decades we've been growing this stunning blue fan palm from Madagascar. These are the blue form. This palm species loves sun, heat and is cold hardy to the low 20’s F. It doesn’t like the grower to fool with or cut its roots. These cannot be transplanted once established in the garden. They get a husky trunk and probably about 40 feet tall in many decades. This is a very attractive palm and should be given room in the garden to show it off. Many people in desert locations have found they can grow it. Shown below are our 15 gallon sized plants that we’re putting on special. They are sun acclimated and ready to plant.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $180

Remember: Mention this Special for this price. Of note we also carry the "Green Bismarckia" but the one on sale today is the prominent blue variety.

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD SIZED 5 GALLON PLANTS

SEE DESCRIPTION ABOVE

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $100

Remember: Mention this Special for this price. This size is easy to mail order.

RHAPIDOPHYLLUM HYSTRIX
THE NEEDLE PALM

WORLD'S MOST COLD HARDY PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLD FIFTEEN GALLON SIZE

There is no doubt in my mind that this species is the most cold tolerant of any palm species. It is native to the southeastern United States with native habitats stretching from South Carolina down to northern Florida and into Alabama and Mississippi. There are reports of this species tolerating below zero degrees F. Now, this doesn't mean that you can grow it in Michigan. But, in areas that see significant cold such as North Carolina, central Texas or even New Mexico, this species might work for you.

It is a suckering fan palm and known as the "Needle Palm" because it forms dark colored, protuberant needles on the trunk. One photo below shows the spines. In sun the leaf color is a silver green with more silver underneath. In shade the color gets dark green, reminiscent of a Rhapis Palm. Trunks are usually under three feet tall and four to six inches thick. But, because the leaves come upwards, the overall height of the plant can be six to seven feet or taller. They can get a bit bushy. The common name of “Needle Palm” comes from the fact that the stubby trunks have long dark colored needles – reminiscent of a knitting needle. This is a very slow growing species that slowly crawls the ground by suckering. These are rare to find for sale. We're putting very old 15g on special.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15G $200

I only have a few of these. They are massively big for a 15g plant and suckering like crazy. If you want a more affordable size, we do have 5g plants for sale. The 15 gallon are shown in the first 7 photos below.

VEITCHIA ARECINA
EXOTIC MEDIUM TO TALL PINNATE SUN PALM

CAN BE GROWN IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
RARE SPECIES - SELDOM SEE FOR SALE
TEN DAY SPECIAL TRIPLE 15G SIZE

We have a limited number of triples of this species - three plants in one pot. This is like you so often see with King Palms. Inherently, this is a single trunk, crown shafted pinnate palm native to Vanuatu, Fiji and Tonga. In the wild, plants get to over 75 feet tall. In So California it is more typical to see one to 30 to 40 feet. They have a light colored crown shaft, speckled dark or black color near the inner crown area and sometimes on the leaf stems. Leaves are six to eight feet long and leaflet tips are pointed or slightly blunted. The trunk is narrow for a tall palm.

Shown here are triple 15g plants which we're putting on special. There are quite a few people who are growing this species in the coastal strip in our area.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $200

Please mention this Blog Only Special prior to purchase.

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE REGULAR LADY PALM

ONE OF THE BEST INTERIOR PALMS
ALSO GREAT UNDERSTORY GARDEN PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 15G SIZE

We have an assortment of Lady Palms which are near perfect - almost as nice as the expensive ones we bring in out of Hawaii. But, they are locally grown and better priced. And, we are offering them on special. Have you ever wondered why you hardly ever see Rhapis on sale? It's because they are super slow growing. The plants shown here are eight, maybe ten years old. Therefore, growers have little motivation to sell them cheap. The plants shown here are nice enough for a bank or hotel lobby, a professional office or even your living room.

Rhapis excelsa is native to Asia and typically doesn't get much over 8 feet tall in a pot. They do great in shady locations of the garden or inside the home. They are a very nice patio plant. Cold hardiness is about 20 degrees F. They want low dose fertilizer. Too much fertilizer will burn them. The plants on special here are 15g size, very full with lots of canes. They won't last long.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 15G $400
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15G $300

Important: Mention this Blog Only Offering for this price when you purchase. Note, limited supply available.

ARCHONTOPHOENIX "TERACARPA"
THE BEST KING PALM EVER!

SO, WHAT IS IT?
ARE THEY EVER ON SALE?
YES, 10 DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE

Archontophoenix teracarpa is a fictitious name given to an unknown species/type of King Palm that I have in my garden and no one can identify. I've been collecting seeds from it for quite a few years and offering it for sale. Everyone who gets one agrees - "It's the best King Palm ever!" It got the name from the Latin "Large body", which it has. After trying to identify the species over many years and with no success, we coined the name "Archontophoenix teracarpa". The closest species to it would be A. maxima but it's not the same. So, what are the differences that makes teracarpa more ideal?

It is faster growing
It gets taller than the regular King Palm
It tolerates full sun better
It doesn't brown tip in full sun
It has a blue crown shaft
It has a super thick trunk

REGULAR PRICE 5G $125 (singles & multiples)
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $95

Remember: mention this Special to get your discount when you purchase!

TRITHRINAX CAMPESTRIS
BLUE, SUCKERING FAN PALM

VERY COLD HARDY
LIMITED NUMBER OLD SUCKERING 5G
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This South American suckering fan palm comes from Argentina and Uruguay. From these locations, you might suspect it could have quite a bit of cold hardiness, and this is the case with not only this species of Trithrinax, but of the genus as a whole. Availability of seeds of this species has been sparse to nonexistent. And, as a young plant, it is quite slow growing. Consequently, to get a good sized container plant can take a decade or more. We were fortunate to offer some very nice 5g plants as shown below. I'd estimate their age at 7 years. They are dividing and very chunky at the base. They are totally acclimated to full hot sun and are intensely blue. This is a perfect selection for someone who lives in an interior area with lots of heat.

Overall height of this species is up to twenty feet. Multiple stems are produced, but usually the number is just several. Leaves are small, typically about two feet wide. The segments of the leaves are pointed and sharp. Trunks retain old leaf bases but, like Washingtonia, eventually fall off. This is a drought tolerant species and can take temperatures well into the 100's F. and cold tolerance is into the teens. Of note, most specimens I've seen are blue. The last two photos show a mature plant that is blue-green in color, probably due to the fact that it's not getting full sun.

REGULAR PRICE 5G THIS SPECIES $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $105

But, remember to mention this special when purchasing to get this price.

15 gallon size
garden plant
garden plant

HOWEA BELMOREANA
THE SENTRY OR UMBRELLA PALM

ANOTHER PALM FROM LORD HOW ISLAND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

There is a second endemic species of Howea on Lord Howe Island. This is Howea belmoreana. Common names used to describe this species include the Sentry Palm, the Belmore Palm, the "Kentia Palm", and even the Umbrella Palm. However, the name "Kentia Palm" is usually used to refer to the H. forsteriana. Howea belmoreana comes from a higher elevation in its natural habitat compared to the H. forsteriana. And, given this fact, one might expect that this species is a little more cold tolerant. Most growers have found this to be true, tolerating temperatures to about 25 degrees F.

The main difference between this palm and the standard Kentia is that the crown of leaves are quite curved pointing downwards toward the grown. This gives the crown an overall umbrella appearance. Like the H. forsteriana, the Belmore Palm doesn't like full sun if away from the Coast and is rather slow growing. Most find it to be slower than the regular Kentia Palm. Culture is similar and there is little data on the transplant of this species, but I suspect it will perform about the same as the standard Kentia.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $105

Please mention this Special at the time of purchase.

BURRETIOKENTIA HAPALA
AN EXOTIC NEW CALEDONIAN PALM FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

DROP DEAD GORGEOUS
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

In the mid-1980's I began to grow some of the very cool palms from new Caledonia. By 1995 I was totally into it and this led to my arranging the fantastic International Palm Society Biennial trip to New Caledonia that happened during my tenure as President in the year 2000. I just didn't know of a better place for a bunch of palm enthusiasts to go and see some of the best palms in the world. This species, Burretiokential hapala, is one of those palms.

It is a crown shafted palm with a rather thin trunk of about eight inches that gets to a height of approximately 25 to 30 feet. I has an intriguing brown color to the stems and crown shaft area. It does not have the stripes you'd see with the Burretiokentia vieilllardii. Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F, or perhaps a bit less. So, it's comparable to a King Palm. If you can grow a King, you can grow this species. One of the keys to culture is not letting the ground it's in go dry. This species, like Chambeyronia, responds to water.

Shown here are the band size I'm putting on special. The one larger nursery plant below is a nice 25 gallon. I'd recommend morning sun, a few hours of mid day sun, or bright filtered light. It's a great species to grow.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $50

Remember: Mention this Special for you discount.

BRAHEA BRANDEGEEI
A TALL, QUICK GROWING BRAHEA

GREEN LEAVES, SORT OF WISPY
THIN TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

Rarely do I have this hard to find palm and even more rarely do I put it on special. It's one of the hardest of the Braheas to locate. It can reach heights of over 80 feet and is native to Baja California, Mexico. Trunks are thin. Crowns of leaves are open. Leaf color is typically green as shown here. One of the best places to see this species is in Balboa Park, San Diego, less than a half mile from where I live. It wants full sun, tolerates wind and dry conditions and is a good growing species. Despite its beauty, its a solid grower and a fine addition to any garden. I’m offering band sized seedlings on sale - see first four photos.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $45

It'd be piece of cake to mail order. Remember, mention this Special!

ROYSTONEA OLERACEA
THE SOUTH AMERICAN ROYAL PALM

TALL PINNATE PALM WITH LUSH GREEN FOLIAGE
LONG PROMINENT CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL SEEDLINGS IN BANDS

This species of Royal Palm is native to the lower Caribbean Islands and northern South America. References say it can reach heights of sixty feet but I've personally seen a grove of 100 year old trees in New Caledonia that surpass 100 feet. They are fast growing, have green leaves, a prominent crown shaft and hold their leaves typically in the upper half of the leaf-crown sphere. They want sun and are cold hardy to about 25 degrees F. On sale are one year old band sized seedlings.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $45

Easy to mail order.

CERATOZAMIA MEXICANA
GREEN CYCAD FROM MEXICO
BLOWOUT SALE CONING SIZED PLANTS

TEN DAY SPECIAL CONING SIZED PLANTS

This gorgeous cycad is green in color and native to lowland as well as mountainous areas of Vera Cruz, Mexico. There are various forms. Some are green emergent but we’ve seen an occasional bronze emergent type. This is a medium to large cycad with crown spreads of eight to ten feet. Leaves tend to be horizontal and sometimes a bit dependent, especially on older leaves. Leaf stems are spiny. Leaf length can be six feet easily. Leaflets are medium width with no spines on their edges. Caudex size can get up to two feet. Most would grow this is a bit of sun or filtered light. But, right on the coast, some have grown it well in half day sun. Cold tolerance is down to the low 20’s F.

We have an excellent selection of this species and have selected some of the 15 gallons for a Ten Day Special. Caudexes are four to six inches. Most are coning size. These came recently from a private collection and some need to throw out new leaves. But, all are super healthy and have seen temperatures well into the twenties

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE IN 15 GALLON $700
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE IN 15G $540

This is a great price for these plants, many of which are 15 years old. This size can be delivered but may be too big for mail order.

STANGERIA ERIOPSUS
FERN-LIKE DWARF AFRICAN CYCAD

VERY CUTE DWARF CYCAD FOR SOME SUN - STRONG FILTERED LIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL FEMALE IN CONE CITRUS POT SIZE THIS SPECIES FOR TEN DAYS

Stangeria eriopus is the only species in this genus and is native to forests in South Africa. It is a dwarf species. The leaves more resemble a fern than a typical cycad. It is most closely related to another cycad which branches, Bowenia, from Australia. It is often described as having two forms: the grassland and the mountain form. What I’ve found culturally with one batch of seeds is that there seems to be more variation plant to plant than from “variety to variety”.

Leaves are typically under three feet long but have been reported to get over five feet. Leaflets are rounded at the end, sometimes have serrations and are soft to the touch. I’ve not seen leaves much over three to four feet long. Caudexes are small as well. An eight inch caudex would be large. They can cone when the caudex is four inches. They like filtered light or part day sun right on the coast. We’d found they tolerate temperatures of 24 to 25 degrees F. with no problem. They are a very cute and small plant. This spees is hard to find and is considered quite rare.

The cycad on special is in a citrus pot container and has a caudex 3 inches wide and 3.5 inches tall with a prominent female cone. We don't recall if we pollinated it. This actual plant is shown in the first 3 photos followed by another male coning plant in the second row of photos.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL CYCAD AS DESCRIBED $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $600

Mail order possible, weather permitting. If you have bad weather we can hold shipping if needed.

DIOON HOLMGRENII
RARE MEXICAN DIOON CYCAD

LARGE CITRUS POT PLANTS
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE

Among cycad enthusiasts, this species is known as a rare Mexican cycad that is difficult to find. What we are offering on special are very old citrus pot plants with caudex size of 3 to 4 inches! This species is sun loving and cold tolerant to the low 20's F. It is native to Mexico. The plants shown here are from seeds we got about ten years ago. It grows at a medium rate. It is known for the fact that it has long and upright leaves. Leaf color is blue green and leaflets are armed with spines. These can be mail ordered in a medium sized box quite easily.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE CITRUS POT $420
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE CIT POT $335

I only have a few of these. You must mention this special when purchasing to get these prices. These plants are very large for their pots.

ENCEPHALARTOS EUGENE-MARAISII
EXTREMELY ATTRACTIVE BLUE TRANSVAAL CYCAD

NATIVE TO SOUTH AFRICA – EXTREMELY RARE

TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This desirable species of Encephalartos comes from the Transvaal region of the northern Republic of South Africa. This area is also home to other sought-after species like E. dolomiticus, dolomiticus, and nubimontanus. \Encephalartos eugene-maraisii is a medium to large species with trunk height up to almost ten feet. It will sucker from the base. Leaf color is blue or blue-green. The leaves are sharply keeled giving a "V-shape" in cross section. Leaf length is two to five feet. Leaflets are 1/2 to 3/4 inches wide and have a sharp terminal tip. Encephalartos middleburgensis is a closely related species and was originally felt to be a subspecies of eugene-maraisii. This is a full sun cycad. In the wild it commonly sees freezing temperatures. In culture it is know to tolerate mid to low 20's F. We are currently putting our band sized plants on sale for ten days.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $95

Remember, mention this Blog Only Special. Easy to mail order.

TRICOLOR NEOROGELIA BROMELIAD
GREEN, WHITE AND PINK

EASY COLOR FOR THE GARDEN
OR NICE INTERIOR PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS VARIETY

Neorogelia are one of our favorite types of Bromeliads. This is because you get color without the need for waiting to see a blossom. Typically, the mother plant lasts for about a year and then dies off. But, you then get several small pups forming from the base of the plant and the cycle repeats itself. So, over time, you'll have a large cluster of many plants. Most Neorogelia like shade although some will take some sun. This species has a pink flush on top of variegated white leaves. We have many attractive Neorogelia for sale. In the last row of photos below I'll show a few other types and also some garden pictures of bromeliads in the 3rd & 4th rows.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS PLANT SIZE $45 - AS SHOWN BELOW -
LARGER CLUSTERS $75 NOT SHOWN HERE

ENSETE VENTICOSUM "MAURELII"
THE RED BANANA

LARGE SINGLE TRUNK TROPICAL PLANT
RED COLOR TO FOLIAGE
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE AND FIFTEEN GALLON GALLON SIZES
On sale are nice one gallon plants of the Red Banana, Ensete ventricosum mauerlii. This is a quick growing tropical plant that can get to ten to fifteen feet tall and grows in full coastal sun. Leaves are green with prominent red to both the dorsal and ventral sides. Trunks are at least 18 inches thick and leaves are fleshy and soft - typical of bananas and Ensete. It does not be edible fruit. Cold hardiness is down to about a freeze. Colder weather damages the leaves in winter. This is a fast growing plant but typically only lives for 5 to 7 years before flowering and dying. The garden photo is by Linda Cochran. We're putting our nice 15g on Special as well as juvenile 1 gallon (first and second row of photos). The 1 gallon should be easy to mail order. You'll note that the larger 15g plants show the red leaves a lot more.

REGULAR PRICE FIFTEEN GALLON $195
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $155

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $40
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $30

HAWAIIAN TI PLANTS
GREAT COLOR FOR THE GARDEN
ASSORTMENT OF NEW VARIETIES AT NURSERY

AVAILABILITY CHANGES WEEKLY
SPECIAL ON THESE GORGEOUS PLANTS

Cordyline Hawaiian Ti plants are a great way to add color to the garden. They easily acclimate to filtered light growing conditions in our area but can be solely acclimated to coastal sun. Most don't get much over six feet tall. They have thin trunks and can take a freeze with some damage. Severe cold will kill them. Leaf color varies from pastels to reds to green and black. Shown here four different varieties of different Hawaiian Ti plants. All are different and there's one that is predominantly pastel colors. Remember, availability of each type changes ever several days.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 3 GALLON VARIETIES OF HAWAIIAN TI $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 3 GALLON TI'S $47.50

WEDNESDAY, 30 NOVEMBER, 2022

CHAMAEDOREA HOOPERIANA
SUCKERING, SHADE LOVING
GREAT INTERIOR, GARDEN OR PATIO PLANT

This species was named about a decade ago after a friend of mine and Palm Society member, Luis Hooper. It is a suckering, medium sized shade palm with thin trunks and prominent rings on the trunk. Overall height peaks out at about twelve feet. Clumps do not run. Leaf color is green and leaf length is four feet. It is similar to Chamaedorea costaricana but with longer leaves and a fuller appearance overall. It is an easy species to grow and does great as an interior palm. I'd recommend filtered light in the garden. Cold tolerance is into the mid-twenties F. or perhaps lower. We have a good selection of larger plants and very limited supply of smaller plants. The garden photo below is c/o RPS.

ASSORTED BROMELIADS
NEW ONES ARRIVING ALMOST WEEKLY

FROM PRIVATE COLLECTIONS
MANY SUN & SHADE VARIETIES

We are continually trying to bring in more colorful, exciting and new varieties of Bromeliads that customers will like At the end of this week we'll be getting in a new batch of colorful and different species. We try to emphasize different types including Aechmea, Neorogelias and others. Some are for shade and others for sun. Right now we probably have about 25 different varieties of Bromeliads. I'm showing some we've had in the past year below. We invite all to drop in to see our Bromeliads. We have a lot more than shown here but, be aware, that some sell out while other different ones arrive.

MULE PALM
BUTIA X SYAGRUS (QUEEN PALM)

MEDIUM SIZE MATURE HYBRID PALM
SUPER COLD HARDY - TO ABOUT 16 DEGREES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE

This popular inter-generic hybrid palm was probably first created by a man made cross of both parents about a hundred years ago. It has been given a trade name of "Butiagrus nabonnandii" but most people call it the Mule Palm. The latter name is utilized because it's been found on most specimens to have sterile fruit or no fruit at all. Any seeds formed almost always won't germinate to grow a new palm. Butia capitata is a monoecious species. This means that flower stocks have both male and female flowers.

To produce Mule Palm plants, it takes a tremendous amount of work to viable and true seeds. On the seed producing Butia flowerstock, all the male flowers must be meticulously removed manually to prevent self-pollination by itself. Only after this can the Queen pollen but put onto the receptive Butia blossoms. This takes a lot of experience, effort and time. This is one of the reasons this hybrid is so rare and usually pricey.

Mature height is up to thirty feet, much shorter than the Queen Palm. But, cold hardiness is better than a Queen as well. It'll take temperatures down to about 16 degrees F. This species prefers a bright sun location and can be grown in the desert in full sun.

On special are our squat 25g plants. They are eight to nine tall. They are ready for planting but we only have a few of them..

REGULAR PRICE 25 GALLON $695
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $595

Remember: Mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase.

PINANGA JAVANA
SINGLE TRUNK, TROPICAL & EXOTIC SPECIES

GETS TALLER THAN P. CORONATA - BEING GROWN BY COLLECTORS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

It's been a few years since we've offered this rare single trunk Pinanga from the island of Java, Indonesia. A different thing about this species is that it is single trunk. Juvenile plants have solid, simple leaves as shown in the photos. But, over time, they become pinnate leaves as seen on the larger garden specimen. The mature trunk is thin and ringed. Leaves are six feet long or more - green in color. The thing about this species is that no one has it! Shown are the 15g plants we're putting on Special. It wants filtered light and is cold hardy down to about a freeze.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $225

PHOENIX SYLVESTRIS
TALL PALM WITH BLUE-GREEN LEAVES

THE SILVER DATE PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G PLANTS

This species of Date Palm is from India and Pakistan and somewhat resembles the Canary Island Date Palm. But, the trunk is much thinner, the crown is not as large and it is more rounded in shape. Leaf color is blue-green. Overall height can reach forty to fifty feet. This is a sun species in all areas with a cold tolerance into the teens F. We're offering nice 15g plants on special as shown. These might be a bit of a challenge to mail order but can be done.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SPECIES 15G $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $200

Just mention this Special to get the discount when purchasing, Only a few available.

CYPHOPHOENIX ELEGANS
THE ELEGANT PALM

MEDIUM SIZE – THIN TRUNK – CROWN SHAFTED
NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND IN LARGE SIZE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This species is from New Caledonia in the northern part of the island. It is of similar height to C. nucele and has the same trunk diameter. The crown shaft on C. elegans is slightly more swollen than that of C. nucele. The crown shaft is also more of a green color, but can show silver. The leaflets are thinner and, as you can see, the leaves curve downward as opposed to the stiff, upright leaves of nucele. Another important difference between the two is that the leaves of C. elegans are keeled whereas the leaves of nucele are more flat. Of note, on both species the bare petiole (stem with no leaves) is very short. This helps you identify this genus.

Shown here is an oversized 15 gallon plant. Also shown are photos of mature plants. It's easy to appreciate how beautiful and not overly large it is. This species should be started in filtered light and be allowed to grow into some sun if you live along the coast. Inland full sun is too harsh for this species. Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F.

REGULAR PRICE LARGE SIZED 15 GALLON $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE 15 GALLON $245

Remember to mention this Special to get this price. Limited numbers available.

CHAMAEDOREA KLOTZSCHIANA
SINGLE TRUNK MEXICAN CHAMAEDOREA

THIN TRUNKED, GROUPED LEAFLETS
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON MULTIPLES

This single trunk, shade loving palm is from the Veracruz area of Mexico and named after a German botanist, Johann Klotzsch. The plant shown here has reached its mature height of twelve feet. It has a prominently ringed but narrow green trunk. The most remarkable characteristic of this species is the grouping of leaflets along the rachis. These groups are irregularly spaced. Also note how they leaflets are held at different angles from the rachis. Leaflets are a dark green, small to medium in length, wide and a bit puffy. It's this grouping of leaflets that allows you to ID this species. Another surprising this is how hard it is to find this species. When I started my nursery 42 years ago, I had lots of these and seeds were available. Nowadays you can't find seeds to save your soul. This is a shade loving species and cold hardy into the mid-twenties F. At best perhaps it'd take down to about 25 degrees. These plants should probably work fine as a house plant and are shippable in a good sized box.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON MULTIPLES $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON MULTIPLES $110

SERENOA REPENS
SOUGHT AFTER BLUE FORM

SUCKERING, SEMI-DWARF FAN PALM
VERY COLD HARDY, SUN LOVING
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This suckering fan palm is native to the southeastern gulf states of the U.S. and some adjacent island areas. Native habitats even extend up into the Carolinas. It gets to a mature height of six to eight feet. It loves sun and heat. Leaf color varies from blue to green or somewhere in-between. The plants on sale today are in 5 gallon pots and five years old. It is slow growing palm. It forms a clump over time. The plants on special are about four years old. Of note, young plants never show blue - but these plants are just showing it. These are supposed to be the blue variety. Cold hardiness is into the upper teens F.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON THIS SIZE $100

Remember: Mention this Blog Special for your discount.

BRAHEA NITIDA
FLAT GREEN LEAF - NATIVE TO MEXICO

CAN TOLERATE LESS THAN FULL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G PLANTS

This interesting fan palm is native to Mexico, where it lives in the western portion of the country in mountainous areas. Its distribution extends down into Guatemala. It attains a height of thirty feet with a stout trunk of one foot diameter. The most attractive thing about this palm are its circular leaves, with only partial division of the segments. This is particularly apparent when it is grown in filtered light. In sun, the leaves are less flat and more divided. When grown in shade, sometimes this species reminds me of a "Licuala-looking" palm in its leaf appearance.

Cold hardiness is at least into the mid-twenties F. It may in fact be more cold hardy. The leaves are a shiny green with a white discoloration on the underside of the leaves. The petioles are essentially un-armed. From time to time we have this species available. Shown here are nice 5g which I'm putting on sale. The close up of the petioles shows the lack of armor. Note the minimal division of the leaflets. The plant in the garden below shows more circular, flat near entire leaves. Compare this to the habitat photo, which was taken by a friend of mine, Justen Dobbs, in habitat and in full sun. The leaves in full sun are more divided and not as tropical appearing.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $100

Remember, mention this Blog Only Special for price at the time of purchase. Limited numbers available. The photo from habitat is by Justen Dobbs

RHAPIDOPHYLLUM HYSTRIX
THE NEEDLE PALM

WORLD'S MOST COLD HARDY PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON SIZE

There is no doubt in my mind that this species is the most cold tolerant of any palm species. It is native to the southeastern United States with native habitats stretching from South Carolina down to northern Florida and into Alabama and Mississippi. There are reports of this species tolerating below zero degrees F. Now, this doesn't mean that you can grow it in Michigan. But, in areas that see significant cold such as North Carolina, central Texas or even New Mexico, this species might work for you.

It is a suckering fan palm and known as the "Needle Palm" because it forms dark colored, protuberant needles on the trunk. The fourth picture below shows small needles forming on the trunk. The first five photos show the 3g on sale. In sun the color is a silver green with more silver underneath. In shade the color gets dark green, reminiscent of a Rhapis Palm. Trunks are usually under three feet tall and four to six inches thick. But, because the leaves come upwards, the overall height of the plant can be six to seven feet or taller. They can get a bit bushy. This is a very slow growing species. The plants on sale are not quite up to size so we're offering a very nice price on them.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100

I only have a few of these. You must mention this Blog Only Special to get this price.

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM

LOVES SUN AND HEAT
PLANTS ON SPECIAL SIX FEET TALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This pinnate New World species is another favorite of mine. There are multiple species of Roystonea. The most common and sought after species is the Cuban Royal, Roystonea regia. Compared to the South American Royal Palm, Roystonea regia's leaves hang down past (lower than) the midway point of the crown. Roystonea oleracea's leaves stop at the "half moon" point and don't hang down near the trunk.

Royal Palms love heat and sun. Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F. They are fast growers. We have a pretty good supply available of assorted sizes. Note how the base of the well grown Royal Palm is quite swollen and fat. On up the trunk there is variable swelling present. The plants I'm putting on special today are an easily shipped size of 5 gallon but would take a tall box. They are about 6 feet tall in their pots. BTW, on the garden shots below, the first two were taken in the San Diego area.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100

Remember to mention this Blog Special to get this price when you purchase.

CHAMAEDOREA MICROSPADIX
SEMI-DWARF SUCKERING BAMBOO PALM

COLD HARDY - NEVER OVER EIGHT FEET TALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON SIZE

This suckering Chamaedorea has very thin canes, somewhat wide leaflets, green leaves and an overall small to medium size. Mature plants are rarely over 8 feet tall. Often leaves can have an iridescent sheen and sometimes are glaucous on the back side. This species wants filtered light and is cold hardy into the upper teens F. The 2 gallon on sale are nicely sized and suckering already. They are equivalent to a 5 gallon plant.

REGULAR PRICE THESE LARGE 2 GALLON $85
SALE PRICE THIS SIZE $70

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special at the time of purchase. These can be mail ordered. The plants on special are shown in the first two rows of photos. The last row shows a 15g at the nursery.

DYPSIS PRESTONIANA
VERY RARE SINGLE TRUNK PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

PLUMOSA LEAVES – COLORFUL CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON SIZE

This highly sought-after, single trunk species from Madagascar is very beautiful. It falls into the category of a “must have ” species. This species comes from mid-elevation in southern Madagascar and is proving to be a great species for Southern California. It has a height of over 30 feet, a thick trunk that is about 12 to sixteen inches thick with prominent rings, plumose upright leaves and a colored crown shaft. The crown shaft has white silver, orange and black colors. Cold tolerance appears to be into the mid-twenties but is not yet worked out. Mature trees tolerate full sun along the coast. The mature photos are by TS at RPS. One photo is c/o John Dransfield, Kew Botanical Garden in London. We’re putting 2 gallon plants on Special.

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON SIZE $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $60

Remember to mention this Special. These can be mail ordered.

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE LADY PALM

ONE OF THE BEST INTERIOR PALMS
ALSO GREAT UNDERSTORY GARDEN PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 1 GALLON SIZE

We have an assortment of Lady Palms which are near perfect - almost as nice as the expensive ones we bring in out of Hawaii. But, they are locally grown and better priced. And, we are offering them on special – one gallon size. They are about 3 to 4 years old. Rhapis excelsa is native to Asia and typically doesn't get much over 8 feet tall in a pot. They do great in shady locations of the garden or inside the home. They are a very nice patio plant. Cold hardiness is about 20 degrees F. They want low dose fertilizer. Too much fertilizer will burn them.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 1G $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $55

Important: Mention this Blog Only Offering for this price when you purchase. Note, limited supply available.

CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA
DWARF SINGLE TRUNK

UNDERSTORY SUPER RARE MINIATURE PALM
SIMPLE LEAVES - NEVER OVER A FEW FEET TALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This dwarf understory palm species has entire, small leaves, a very thin trunk the size of a pencil and a mature height never over two to three feet. It comes from high elevation mountainous areas of Mexico. It's extremely rare and hard to find. The seedlings we're offering this year came from domestic plants in San Diego County. They are about a year old. We got these in last year and about ten sold out quickly. I rarely have them for sale. They need a filtered light environment and should be cold hardy at least into the mid-twenties F. I can mail order these. Limited numbers available!

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $70
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $60

Remember: Mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase. These can be mail ordered - weather permitting.

DYPSIS DECARYI
THE TRIANGLE PALM

MEDIUM MATURE HEIGHT
THREE SIDED CROWN SHAFT WITH COLOR
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This Madagascar palm is known as the "Triangle Palm" because the crown shaft has three flat sides. This crown shaft has multiple colors including purple, silver and black. It gets to a mature height of about 22 feet in 3 decades. It loves heat and sun. Leaves are a gray-green color and there is prominent speckling in the inner crown with dark colors. It is slow growing. It has a cold tolerance of about 24 degrees F. The band size on special are healthy and near ready for repotting. These are easy to mail order.

6REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $50
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $50

Remember to mention this Blog Special at the time of purchase.

BUTIA PARAGUAYENSIS
BLUE-GREEN BUTIA FROM SOUTH AMERICA

ARCHING LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL SEEDLING SIZE

This species is interesting because, in the wild, it is known as a dwarf species that forms minimal trunk. But, when it is grown domestically, it forms a trunk about the size of Butia capitata. It, as you'd guess, comes from Paraguay, with habitat extending into Brazil and northern Argentina. The color is a blue-green, not as silver as Butia capitata. The leaves are strongly arched as shown. It is a full sun plant with cold hardiness into the teens F. We haven’t had them available for a few years. We are now offering band size seedlings. Culture includes full sun and good draining soil. Cold hardiness is into the teens F. I am also showing a photo of a 15g plant from the nursery that is no longer available. The habitat photo is by TS at RPS

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS $50

ENCEPHALARTOS KISAMBO
EXOTIC CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD

LONG GREEN UPRIGHT LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL ON 2 GALLON SIZE

Encephalartos kisambo is a fast growing species native to Kenya where it grows at elevations of 3000 feet. It is a medium sized mature plant with trunks to eight feet. Leaves are green to soapy green in color, stand erect and are six to ten feet long. Leaflets are 1.5 inches wide, pungently tipped at the end, and spiny along the margins. This is a fast growing species that can tolerate our coastal sun. Far inland locations should use part day sun. Cold tolerance is into the mid-twenties, perhaps a bit lower. We had no leaf damage at the nursery in 2007 with lows of 25 degrees F. Shown here are very nice 2 gallon plants we have on a ten day reduced price – see first six photos below. Also shown are other larger sizes we have but note we have many sizes in between the sale plant and the monster specimens below.

REGULAR PRICE 2 GALLON SIZE $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $100

Just mention this Blog special. These are simple to ship by mail order.

MACROZAMIA MACDONNELLII
IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND BLUE AUSTRALIAN CYCAD
TEN DAY SPECIAL SINGLE 15 GALLON PLANT

In the cycad world, this is one of the most sought after of all species. It is native to cental Australia where it sees extremes of both hot and cold weather. It is a full sun cycad except maybe in the desert. It is known for its blue leaaves when in sun. Plants typically are under six feet tall. But, in many decades, they can develop a trunk over three feet tall. Leaves are four to six feet long, keeled and powdery blue in full hot blazing sun. In shade they turn greeen, so one must provide full sun. The last photograph shows a very nice specimen. The plant we have came from a private collection and was only seeing partial sun. It'll turn more blue with full sun. It is in a 15 gallon container with a 3 inch caudex. Once again, this is unbelievably rare and never inexpensive to obtain.

SPECIAL SALE PRICE THIS SUPER RARE 15 GALLON $3000

BLUE STAR FERN
PHLEBODIUM AUREUM

LEAVES WITH A DEFINITE BLUE COLOR
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1G SIZE

This is a fern we have for sale once in a while. We’ve found it’s quite popular and often sells out. We just got in a new batch including 5g and 1g plants. This is a rhizomatous fern that clumps or crawls. Leaves are lobed and have a undulating margins. Leave color is blue-green to blue. Interestingly it is found on the eastern portions of United States, Central America, the Caribbean Islands and South America as far south as Argentina. Leaves are soft and plant height is usually about two feet. It likes filtered light and is cold tolerant down to about a freeze. I've read that is somewhat drought tolerant. Some use it as an expansive ground cover.

REGULAR REGULAR PRICE 5G $85
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE $65

LIGULARIA TUSSILANGINEA
LILY-LIKE, FLAT GREEN LEAVES

YELLOW BLOSSOMS IN FALL
TAKES SUN - LIKES WATER
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE ONE GALLON

This is an interesting plant we propagate ourselves from seeds of existing plants. They form small clusters of shiny green leaf plants that don't get over 18 inches. Flowers come in the fall are yellow, daisy-like and medium sized. This species enjoys water and will droop over with too little water. Then, when given water, they bounce right back. It's a good "indicator plant" for how well you are watering the garden. They'll take sun in many areas or part day sun. In full sun, give them plenty of water. These plants do sucker and are easy to propagate from divisions. This is a great "filler plant" to put in areas where you want something but don't know what to use. On the fourth photo the one gallon is in his right hand. We're sold out of 5g presently.

REGULAR PRICE 1G $40
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1G $32.50

Remember: mention this Special for your discount when you purchase.

HIBISCUS MIDNIGHT
RED BLOSSOM

RARE VARIETY
TEN DAY SPECIAL FLOWERING SIZE ONE GALLON

As a nursery, we're not a specialty Hibiscus grower. But, I've always loved these plants. Even older species, around for quite a while, add color and charm to the garden. And, newer varieties are amazing. The reason we backed off from Hibiscus is that they attract white fly problems. This was especially present a decade ago but has become less of a problem nowadays. So, we are growing some cool varieties presently. Most are from cuttings from collections of desirable plants. The one on sale here has large red (touch of pink) blossoms. They are fully rooted.

TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $35

MONDAY, 28 NOVEMBER, 2022

BAD PALM SEEDS?
HOW CAN YOU TELL?

THE FLOAT TEST
THE PINCH TEST
CUT THE SEED OPEN

Many people love to germinate palm seeds and make their plants. But, there are a few things you need to now right from the beginning if you want to successfully germinate.

1. Get fresh seeds. Right off the tree is best.
2. Pick seeds that are mature, often colorful. Green seeds germinate poorly.
3. Remove the fruit from the seeds until you have a clean, often tan colored inner seed. Fruit can contain chemicals that retard germination.
4. Pinch test seeds. Take the picked seeds (with or without fruit) and squeeze hard between two fingers. They should never collapse.
5. Float Test the seeds. Palm seeds almost always sink in water. Floaters are almost always bad. Inner cavities of rot within the seed make them float.
6. Cut open a few seeds. The fruit should be white or light tan, solid and without signs of rot. And, you definitely do not want to see inner cavities.
7. Always soak the cleaned seeds in pure water, especially if you had seeds shipped to you. This rehydrates them. If seeds are right off a tree and the fruit is moist and fresh, soaking is not necessary. But, they would still be cleaned of any fruit.

Photos here show seeds with fruit, the float test with floaters and sinkers and a few seeds cut open showing inner cavities (a bad sign). For techniques on germination, see our article on Palm Seed Germination at this website.

Butia capitata seeds with fresh yellow fruit
Chambeyronia seeds with red fruit

Green seeds, not ready to pick

Livistona saribus seeds with blue fruit

Cleaning fruit off Jubaea chilensis

Float test: Note floating seeds
Float test - Astrocaryum seeds floating

Float Test: Note good seeds sink to bottom
Sinking seeds on float test
Cavity in bad Astrocaryum mexicanum seeds

Cavity in Astrocaryum mexicanum
Cavity in bad Gastrococos crispa seeds
Cavity in Gastrococus crispa

CYCAS MEDIA
LUSH GREEN AUSTRALIAN CYCAD

THIN TRUNK, UP TO 20 FEET
NICE LANDSCAPE PLANTS AVAILABLE

This attractive cycad is native to Queensland, Australia. It has green leaves five to six feet long and in a lifetime can get a trunk up to 20 feet. Trunk diameter is typically about 8 to 10 inches. Leaf stems are minimal armed and leaf color is green on both sides. It will take coastal sun but would be better with part day sun or filtered light far inland. Shown here are several 15g and one 20g plants. We may have smaller available. Any of these plants can be shipped by mail order. This is a pretty rare species that you can find easily.

A different, even bigger 20g specimen

A different, much older 15g specimen

COCONUT QUEEN PALM
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL WHEN MATURE
NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND

MEDIUM HEIGHT – SYAGRUS HYBRID
TEN DAY SPECIAL SUN READY BOX SIZED PLANTS

This interesting hybrid originated in Thailand by a grower and propagator of rare palms. It is a cross between the common Queen Palm and an unusual type of palm from the same genus, Syagrus schizophylla. The offspring have proven to be quite beautiful and have good cold tolerance. These will be a medium sized palm. The trunk will be thinner than the normal Queen and the overall size will be less. The attached photos of near mature plants show how pretty it is. And, that they are not overly tall. Note that they do not resemble what we all know as the Queen Palm. Some say they seem more to resemble a Coconut Palm. This hybrid likes full sun, is a medium rate grower and has a cold hardiness estimated to be in the low 20's F. Mature height should be about 25 feet. For those who want the fluffy appearance of the Queen Palm without the large size, this palm is perfect for you. Be aware, these are extremely difficult to find and are presently in super short supply.

We’re putting huge 24 inch boxes on sale. They are about 10 - 12 feet tall in their box. This hybrid likes full sun, is a medium rate grower. We have what may be the last three plants in this area.

REGULAR PRICE 24 INCH BOX $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $675

The 9th photo is by J.I.

CHAMAEDOREA CATARACTARUM
THE CAT PALM

A SEMI-DWARF CLUSTERING PALM
SEMI-DWARF TO SIX FEET
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This species of palm has been sold under the name "Cat Palm", which is an abbreviation for "cataractarum".   For Chamaedoreas and in the past, it was fairly easy to find. Nowadays it's very difficult to find, especially with mature size as shown here. It is a clustering palm that gets six feet tall. It really doesn't form any trunk. It likes water as it has a native habitat near river beds. It is cold hardy into the mid 20's F. and I'd recommend, at most, a few hours of sun or filtered light. It is native to the southern areas of Mexico and possibly into areas of Central America. With less than adequate water it tends to look scrappy. At the nursery, we offer mostly large plants, either 10 or 15 gallon size. They typically are suckering with a near mature height.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE $245
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $210

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount.

HEDYSCEPE CANTERBURYANA
FROM LORD HOWE ISLAND

SILVER CROWN SHAFT - SILVER TRUNK
UMBRELLA SHAPED CROWN OF LEAVES
ONE OF PRETTIEST PALM TREES AROUND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

We have available some nice 15g plants of Hedyscepe canterburyana.  This single trunk palm has a silver crown shaft, silver trunk (in shade) with prominent rings. It is native to medium elevations in the mountains of Lord Howea Island (home of the Kentia Palm). It is single trunk. Mature height is about 20 feet. They fruit here and seeds are large and red in color. Along our coast here it takes full sun but also does well in part day sun or strong filtered light. Trunks are beefier in sun. Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees. When folks see this plant in person, most agree it is one of the most desirable palms around.  We are putting our 15g size on special - shown in first six photos. This size is about seven years old. Yes, they are slow growing!  We only have a few left this size.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $220

Remember: Mention this Special for this discount.

HEDYSCEPE CANTERBURYANA
FROM LORD HOWE ISLAND

SILVER CROWN SHAFT - SILVER TRUNK
UMBRELLA SHAPED CROWN OF LEAVES
ONE OF PRETTIEST PALM TREES AROUND
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

FOR DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110

The 5 gallon size is shown in the first six photos. The 7th photo is a 15g.

COCONUT QUEEN PALM
DESIRABLE SYAGRUS HYBRID
ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL WHEN MATURE

SYAGRUS ROMANZOFFIANA X SCHIZOPHYLLA
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON PLANTS
FOR DESCRIPTION SEE ABOVE, TODAY'S BLOG

Regular price this rare 5g palm $165
Ten day special 5g $145

DYPSIS PEMBANA
SINGLE TRUNK OR SUCKERING
NATIVE TO PEMBA ISLAND

TAKES FULL COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

There are both single trunk and suckering forms of this species. Nowadays, most of the plants available of this species are the suckering form. Both get to a height of 25 feet, have an attractive green trunk and a light colored crown shaft. Leaves have a graceful arch and the leaflet color is green. It's a great alternative for the garden. Note how the trunks are beefy but not overly large. The plants on special are already suckering. Along our coast it will take part day sun but I'd recommend filtered or morning sun inland. The plants on special are in 5g size. We may have both larger and smaller size.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $115

Remember to mention this Blog Special at the time of purchase. Limited numbers are available. The garden specimen photos are c/o a late friend Al Bredeson. I'm also showing a prior Nursery stock 25 gallon.

KENTIOPSIS PYRIFORMIS
SUPER RARE SINGLE TRUNK PINNATE PALM

NATIVE TO NEW CALEDONIA
THIN TRUNK - VERY ELEGANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This is a single trunk, crown shafted pinnate palm native to New Caledonia. Many feel it's the prettiest species of this genus. It gets to a height of about 40 feet or more and has a thin trunk. Leaves are upright, green and arched. They are keeled and green in color. The crown shaft is a copper color, covered with a white wax. It can be grown in some sun, depending on where you live. It's probably best to start it in bright filtered light and let it work its way into overhead sun. Growth rate is good, comparable or faster than K. oliviformis. Cold tolerance is down to about a freeze. This is an extremely difficult species to find for sale nowadays. I have a limited number of 5 gallon plants we’re putting on special. Notice the newly emerging red leaf – most commonly seen in New Caledonia palm species. This is an extremely rare species and we rarely have them for sale.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $100

Photo of garden plant by TS at RPS.

DYPSIS PRESTONIANA
SINGLE TRUNK, BEAUTIFUL
A REAL WINNER!

SUPER RARE MADAGASCAR PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

Discovered by John Dransfield and named after a U.K. executive of Macdonald's Hamburgers (who funded the expedition to Madagascar), this single trunk palm is new to the market, super rare and quite attractive. It has orange-brown leaf bases at the point of trunk attachment, plumose leaves and gets to a height of about 25 to 30 feet. It is single trunked with a medium thickness and prominent rings. It takes full sun in coastal areas and, once established, is a good growing palm. Shown here are our band sized seedlings. On occasion we have larger sizes for sale. These are easy to ship. Growers tell us that this species takes temperatures into the mid-20's F. I know of several enthusiasts who live in cool areas and now have fruiting specimens of this species. It is an excellent grower.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $52.50

Remember: Mention this Blog Special for this price. Easy to mail order. Habitat photo c/o TS at RPS.

ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS - BLUE & GREEN VARIETIES
RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - LIKES COASTAL SUN
STUNNING SPINY LEAVES - BLUE OR GREEN OR IN-BETWEEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD

Encephalartos arenarius is from the coastal dunes and forest close to Alexandria in the Eastern Cape. This species is small to medium in mature size. Leaf length can range from one to two meters (i.e. three to six feet approximately) depending on cultivar and exposure to sun. Like many of the Encephalartos from the Eastern Cape, this species is variable in color, size and leaf type. E. arenarius can range in color from a dull green to a powdery white color (bearing a likeness to E. horridus). The plants we are putting on special below are primarily green forms but may become more blue outdoors in full sun. To get this color they will want full sun or an ample amount of sun. It prefers a well draining soil. Speed of growth of this cycad is good.

This first E. arenarius shown below is in a 35 gallon container and has a caudex that is 15 inches wide and 15 inches tall. It came from a private collection and has an age of about 30 years. Its leaves are half way between blue and green. At this moment I am not certain of the sex.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 35 GALLON CONING PLANT $3700
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT $3150

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount when you order.

ENCEPHALARTOS ARENARIUS - BLUE & GREEN VARIETIES
RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

MEDIUM SIZE MATURE - LIKES COASTAL SUN
STUNNING SPINY LEAVES - BLUE OR GREEN OR IN-BETWEEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD

FOR SPECIES DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

This Encephalartos arenarius is in a 36 inch box. Age 50 years. Caudex 24 inches wide, 26 inches tall. It is near full mature size. Sex uncertain although it's conded in the past. Leaf color is blue-green.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 36 INCH BOX MATURE CYCAD $6100
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS 36 INCH BOX CYCAD $4900

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount when you order.

SUPER UNUSUAL ENCEPHALARTOS HYBRID
F2 HYBRID WITH E. WOODII POLLEN

ENCEPHALARTOS (E. NATALENSIS X E. WOODII) X (ENCEPHALARTOS HORRIDUS X E. WOODII)
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE

This should prove to be one of the most interesting hybrid Encephalartos available on the market. It is an F2 hybrid. These were done from domestic plants in Southern California. The hybridizer took pollen from the E. horridus x woodii to pollinate a receptive female of E. natalensis x woodii. As most know, E. woodii is extinct in the wild and only male plants are known to exist. E. horridus x woodii (Encephalartos "horwood") is one of the most sought after hybrids around. I've shown multiple photos of the plants on Special as well as close up photos of the leaves of both parents.

TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POTS THIS HYBRID $115

I have limited numbers available. They'll not last long.

FUCREA QUICHEENSIS
A RARE AND STUNNING BLUE FUCREA

MEDIUM HEIGHT MATURE
THIN BLUE STRAP-LIKE SOFT LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE 4 INCH POT SIZE

This extremely rare and difficult to find variety of Fucrea is native to southwest Guatemala and southern Mexico on the Pacific side. Plants have thin trunks with a mature heights of six to nine feet with beautiful heads of super blue strap-like blue leaves. The leaves are a rosette and this crown is six feet or more wide. Trunks have been known to fork when mature. Unlike other Fucrea that produce bubils, this species sets seeds. This is a full sun species and is cold hardy (by estimate) into the mid to upper 20's F. Mail order would be simple.

REGULAR PRICE 4 INCH $50
TEN DAY SPECIAL 4 INCH $45

Garden/wild photos below by Agaveville website and TS at RPS.

YUCCA ROSTRATA
BLUE SUCCULENT WITH AMAZING COLD HARDINESS

SEMI-DWARF SIZE MATURE
BEING GROWN IN NEW YORK IN THE SNOW!
JUVENILE 4 INCH POTS ON SALE

This small to medium sized, drought tolerant plant is native to the southern U.S. border and down into Mexico. It is usually a single trunk mature plant but can fork above the ground. Most notable is the silver-blue foliage as shown here. It is very slow growing. Over time it forms a trunk about eight or ten inches thick. Foliage is about 2 feet long and not "pokey" or sharp. It demands full sun and is cold hardy at least into the single digits F. I had a customer call me from New York City recently to tell me that a plant bought from us about three years ago was thriving in his yard. Gardeners like this species because it's not very big and gives nice color to a sunny garden. The size we’re putting on sale are juvenile 4 inch pot size and have four to six leaves. This is a good starter size but will take time to make a nice garden plant. These would be easy to mail order. Of note, we also have 3 gallon for sale.

REGULAR PRICE 4 INCH $40
TEN DAY SPECIAL 4 INCH $35

Garden photos are by it.dreamstime.org and USF.ed

PLUMERIA PLANTS
LARGE ONE GALLON AVAILABLE
PRETTY AND DESIRABLE VARIETIES

SOME BRANCHING
THREE DIFFERENT BLOSSOMS
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE ONE GALLON PLANTS

We are pleased to offer three very beautiful varieties of Plumeria. We got these in 2 days ago and also had a “Hot Pink” variety which sold out the same day. Most are large for a one gallon and have branches. They are growing now that it’s spring and have leaves. They should produce flowers this summer. I brought these in because all are super desirable varieties. They came from a private Plumeria enthusiast. These plants like sun and heat. Cold tolerance is down to a freeze or slightly below. If you plant some in your garden, remember to not water them in winter when it’s cold. This will cause rot. Limited supplies. We also have other sizes available, mostly larger.

REGULAR PRICE THESE ONE GALLON BELOW $55
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE ONE GALLON $45

Remember: Mention this Special when you purchase.

*Plumeria pinang peach*

*Plumeria pink pansy*

Plumeria yellow

SATURDAY, 19 NOVEMBER, 2022

WODYETIA BIFURCATA
THE FOXTAIL PALM
TREES IN FRUIT

Wodyetia bifurcata, a species from Queensland, Australia, is known for it's fluffy leaves, medium stature and bright red and large fruit. Shown here are several plants in fruit in various stages. Fruit first appears green. Fruit will attain full size but still be green. Then it changes to a light yellow, then to orange and finally to a prominent red. At this red stage it may fall to the ground. When red, it is ready to be removed and germinated. Green fruit germinates poorly. Fruit size is about like a small chicken egg. Seeds inside are brown and prominently grooved. In our local growing area here in San Diego, we've had scores of mature trees of this species produce viable seeds.

Tree with ripe red fruit
First tree in fruit. All seeds are green

Another specimen with ripening fruit

CYCAD SEEDLINGS - LOTS OF THEM
GROWN IN BAND CONTAINERS

THIS DOESN'T NECESSARILY MEAN THEY ARE SMALL
BUT, THEY ARE ALWAYS EASY TO SHIP

For over forty years we've been propagating and selling cycads to our customers. Crucial to any cycad nursery has always been obtaining viable seeds for germination. It's certainly gotten more difficult over the decades to obtain desirable seeds. But, we have been fortunate to continue offering smaller and more affordable cycads for sale. We presently have for sale thousands of small cycads of at least 75 species.

We do a lot of our own germination. The fifth photo below shows a flat of Encephalartos eugene-marisii germinating. Once germinated, new seedlings go into our band containers - a square and tall pot measuring 3 x 3 x 9 inches. We were one of the first nurseries in the country to utilize these pots. Now it's standard practice country-wide. As we have about 25,000 cycads in stock, we don't always get time to repot cycads that are too big for their band containers. This is a good thing for you, the consumer. It means that many times our band cycads are five years old or longer. They often have super developed roots and are on their fifth to six leaf or more. Some photos demonstrate this - note the plant sizes.

Another nice thing about getting band sized plants is that they are quite affordable to ship for mail orders. And, we can nestle quite a few plants in one box for shipping - always in their containers with soil. And, sometimes we put our band sized cycads on sale. We hope that you can take advantage of these often "much bigger than other nurseries" band sized cycads. Most nurseries sell seedlings with only one or two small leaves. Photos below show many of our band sized plants with photos of flats of cycads or growing benches. Incidentally, at our nursery we have about a mile of running benches and display areas.

RHAPIS MULTIFIDA
A RARE TYPE OF LADY PALM

ONE OF THE BEST PALMS FOR INSIDE
GREAT GARDEN PLANT AS WELL
TEN DAY SPECIAL OLD 25 GALLON PLANT

I haven't been able to offer this superior fan palm as they have not been available for over five years. But, we do have one or two very old plants that we were holding in stock and have decided to sell. This is a very rare type of Lady Palm. This species is from China and is often mistaken for Rhapis humilus. But, it is a smaller species, getting to about 8 feet tall whereas humilus gets about twice as tall. It performs well inside the home or office and also is quite easy to grow outside in filtered light. The stems of multifida are much more attractive than the common Lady Palm, Rhapis excelsa. It also carries more leaflets per leaf than the Lady Palm and is overall a more attractive plant. The leaflets are narrow and come to a point like Rhapis humilus. Side by side, the majority of our customers prefer the Rhapis multifida to the Rhapis excelsa.

Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties or lower, F. Outdoors, this species prefers filtered light. One must be careful not to give Rhapis too much fertilizer or leaf burn may occur. We have a near twenty year old 25 gallon that we’re putting on special. It is too big for standard mail order. BTW, if you start looking for a comparable plant, the chances are you won't find one.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 25 GALLON $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 25 GALLON $675

The sale plant is shown in the first 6 photos.

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 24 INCH BOX SIZE

For several decades we've been growing this stunning blue fan palm from Madagascar. These are the blue form. This palm species loves sun, heat and is cold hardy to the low 20’s F. It doesn’t like the grower to fool with or cut its roots. These cannot be transplanted once established in the garden. They get a husky trunk and probably about 35 - 40 feet tall in many decades. The fan leaf is intensely blue, especially with full hot sun. This is a very attractive palm and should be given room in the garden to show it off. Many people in desert locations have found they can grow it. Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F. Shown below is our 24 inch box size. These are followed by the 15 gallon size in the next post. Both sizes are on sale. This species is a real “show-stopper”. Literally people driving by will stop to look at one in your front yard and ask: “Hey Man, what is that blue palm tree?”

REGULAR PRICE 24 INCH BOX SIZE $625
TEN DAY SPECIAL 24 INCH BOX SIZE $550

Remember: Mention this Special for this price.

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

For several decades we've been growing this stunning blue fan palm from Madagascar. These are the blue form. This palm species loves sun, heat and is cold hardy to the low 20’s F. It doesn’t like the grower to fool with or cut its roots. These cannot be transplanted once established in the garden. They get a husky trunk and probably about 35 - 40 feet tall in many decades. The fan leaf is intensely blue, especially with full hot sun. This is a very attractive palm and should be given room in the garden to show it off. Many people in desert locations have found they can grow it. Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F. Shown below are our 15 gallon plants. This species is a real “show-stopper”. Literally people driving by will stop to look at one in your front yard and ask: “Hey Man, what is that blue palm tree?”

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $210

Mail order possible but it'd take a very large box.

CHAMAEDOREA TEPEJILOTE
SINGLE TRUNK, TALL
SHADE-LOVING PINNATE PALM

DARK GREEN RINGED TRUNK
OFTEN GROWN AS A "MULTIPLE"
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

This single trunk pinnate palm is native to areas extending from southern Mexico down to Columbia. They are often grown for food as the male blossoms are cooked and eaten as a delicacy. This species doesn't take sun here - it'll burn. But, in shade it thrives in temperatures down to the mid-twenties F. It is quick growing and has a rather thick, prominently ringed dark green trunk. Flowers are quite prominent and, if you have several plants closely situated, the chances are you'll obtain fruit without even trying. One photo shows a flower with green fruit.

This species can also be grown inside the home as long as the air is not too hot and dry. I personally like the looks of a collection of several plants grown together. Over time, as they age and get overhead, there will be some "stair-stepping" of the crowns and this is quite attractive. Cold tolerance outside is into the mid-twenties F. It needs filtered light, even when tall. We have singles and some multiples in our 15 gallon size which we are putting on sale. They are very nice and really too big for mail order. For the latter folks, get our 5 gallon size.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL $210

Just mention this Special for your discount.

WODYETIA BIFURCATA
THE FOXTAIL PALM

THIN TRUNK, FLUFFY GREEN LEAVES
MEDIUM SIZED
TEN DAY SPECIAL 20 GALLON SIZE,

The Foxtail Palm, Wodyetia bifuracata, is native to Queensland, Australia and is a single trunk palm. It gets to about twenty-five feet height, has fluffy green plumose leaves, is crown shafted as shown below and is single trunk. It has a thin trunk, usually with a mature width of about six to eight inches. It is a great species for more inland areas that see a fair amount of heat. It does love heat and sun. Although some like to plant this species in colonies of two or three plants, it looks great as a stand-alone single palm. Because it wants sun, it should not be put in a shady area. Cold hardiness is about 23 to 25 degrees F. I’m putting some 20g plants on sale. They are too big a pot for mail order. See them in the first six photos below.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 20 GALLON $400
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $345

Remember: Mention this Blog Special when you purchase.

ARCHONTOPHOENIX BEATRICAE
RARE VARIETY OF THE KING PALM

SILVER UNDERSIDES TO LEAFLETS
GREEN CROWN SHAFT
SINGLES AND MULTIPLES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

Archontophoenix Alexandrae is native to Australia. It has green leaves that have silver discoloration to the underside of the leaflets as shown below. Leaves tend to stay flat without the twist on their axis as seen with the more common King Palm, Archotophoenix cunninghamiana. Although they are a tad less cold hardy than the latter, they are felt by most to be more beautiful. Mature height can exceed 50 feet. The crown shaft with green without the brown discoloration seen with the common King Palm. Cold hardiness is about 26 degrees F. They can take coastal sun but half-day sun might give the pretties specimen. The 15g size shown below demonstrate both the single planting (3rd row below) and multiples (first two rows of photos) with several in a pot.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $225
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $200

Remember: mention this Special to get your discount when you purchase!

SERENOA REPENS
SOUGHT AFTER BLUE FORM

SUCKERING, SEMI-DWARF FAN PALM
VERY COLD HARDY, SUN LOVING
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This suckering fan palm is native to the southeastern gulf states of the U.S. and some adjacent island areas. Native habitats even extend up into the Carolinas. It gets to a mature height of six to eight feet. It loves sun and heat. Leaf color varies from blue to green or somewhere in-between. The plants on sale today are in 5 gallon pots but not overly large. We do have larger, but on this batch are offering a very good price. It is slow growing and has smaller sized leaves. It forms a clump over time. The plants on special are about four years old. Of note, young plants never show blue - but these plants are just showing it. Cold hardiness is into the upper teens F. The last row of photos show plants in gardens or habitat.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON THIS SIZE $100

Remember: Mention this Blog Special for your discount.

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE LADY PALM

ONE OF THE BEST INTERIOR PALMS
ALSO GREAT UNDERSTORY GARDEN PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 5 GALLON SIZE

We have an assortment of Lady Palms which are near perfect - almost as nice as the expensive ones we bring in out of Hawaii. But, they are locally grown and better priced. And, we are offering them on special – five gallon size. They are about 5-6 years old. Rhapis excelsa is native to Asia and typically doesn't get much over 8 feet tall in a pot or in the ground. Each leaf is composed mature of six to ten leaflets that have jagged ends and are green in color. They do great in shady locations of the garden or inside the home. They are a very nice patio plant. Cold hardiness is about 20 degrees F. They want low dose fertilizer. Too much fertilizer will burn them. The 5 gallon size can be easily shipped' It's slow growing and a dwarf species.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110

Important: Mention this Blog Only Offering for this price when you purchase. Note, limited supply available.

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE LADY PALM

ONE OF THE BEST INTERIOR OR EXTERIOR PALMS
SIZE ON SALE EASY TO SHIP
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE ONE GALLON PLANTS

FOR DESCRIPTION, SEE ABOVE

REGULAR PRICE THESE 1G $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $55

Important: Mention this Blog Only Offering for this price when you purchase. One gallon shown in first 4 photos.

COPERNICIA HOSPITA
THE BLUE CUBAN WAX PALM

EXTREMELY RARE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM
STUNNING BLUE SPECIES
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON SIZE

This difficult to find and beautiful blue fan palm is native to Cuba. Mature trees carry a large number of blue, circular and pleated and flat leaves. The trunk holds on to old leaf bases for a while but eventually is smooth with about a 12 inch diameter. Many feel that this, along with other Copernicia, are some of the most beautiful of all fan palms. Expect a mature height of 20 to 25 feet. It wants full sun and is cold tolerant to at least a freeze. We're putting our one gallon plants on special. Their age is approaching 3 years. I’d highly recommend getting one as they are near impossible to find. Easy to mail order.

TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON $65

CERATOZAMIA HILDAE
DWARF FILTERED LIGHT CYCAD

MAXIMUM GARDEN HEIGHT TYPICALLY SIX FEET
TEN DAY SPECIAL ANY SIZE THIS SPECIES!

The first five photos below show an example of a really nice citrus pot sized mature plant with a male cone. The caudex size is approximately 4 inches and it is representative of some plants we're putting on special. Approximate age is ten years. This species is very small with leaves rarely to four feet long and a caudex size under six inches. The hallmark of this species is the grouping of the leaflets - like little bow ties put onto the leaf stem. Leaf color is always green. Pictures below demonstrate this.

I'd recommend filtered light. It doesn't take up much room so it can fit into any garden. It's a very "cute" species that people like. It's also a wonderful patio plant. I'd give it filtered light. Cold tolerance is into the low 20's F. These cycads are super easy to ship anywhere within the U.S. We ship plants in their containers, soil and all. It has also been grown by some as a smaller interior cycad in the home. It is quite "user friendly".

TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE PLANT THIS SPECIES $325

Shown below are photos of a nice citrus pot plant although some on sale could be in 5g pots. Caudex sizes are 3 to 4 inches. Also, I'm showing a garden specimen. Remember to mention this Special at the time of purchase to get this discount. We should have smaller and larger plants available.

ENCEPHALARTOS LATIFRONS - TRAPPES VALLEY
UNBELIEVABLY RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

MEDIUM SIZED MATURE - GORGEOUS AND DIFFERENT
TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE PLANTS

This extremely rare and hard to obtain species is almost extinct in its habitat location in South Africa. Fewer than a hundred plants remain and specialists say populations are declining. It has green or blue green leaves. There are two distinct cultivars of this plant, "Trappes Valley" and " green hills". Between the two types, the Trappes Valley form is more sought after. The plants on special are this “Trappes Valley” variety – from seed from domestic parents of both sexes of this form. This is a green cycad with a distinctive look. It has large, curved leaves. Leaflets are typically stacked and have wide, prominent lobes (modified spines) on their margins. This is a medium sized plant. Leaves can range in size from a meter to a meter and a half depending on cultivar. Stems tend can reach approximately three meters (ancient plant, this is a VERY slow growing species). It tolerates full sun along the coast and is cold tolerant down to about 22 degrees F. Please protect it from cold if you get colder than this.

We just obtained three juvenile plants from a private collector. These are about 3 years old and in 5 gallon pots with 2-3 leaves. Be aware that I just found one leaf new seedlings on line selling for $499. These are older and at a better price than this. Be aware these are near impossible to get.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE YOUNG 5 GALLON PLANTS AS SHOWN $425

ENCEPHALARTOS MUNCHII
A RARE CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD

BLUE – GREEN SPINY LEAFLETS
SUPER DIFFICULT TO FIND
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON PLANT

Native to Mozambique, this small to medium sized cycad grows in scrub forest among rocks and boulders. It is distinguished by its blue to blue-green color and by having leaflets that are prominently spiny. In my experience, leaf color is sometimes very blue, other times blue-green. You'll sometimes hear the description as "soapy green" to describe the leaves. Overall, the leaf color is variable. Trunk size is usually under three feet. Upright leaves are about four feet long or less. Leaves are keeled and leaflets are lanceolate and spiny. This species likes full sun and is cold tolerant into the low 20's F. The first six pictures show a 15 gallon plant with a three inch caudex. We're putting this actual plant on sale. I suspect outdoors in sun (greenhouse grown so far) it'll show more of the blue color as the parents were blue.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD $525
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL CYCAD $450

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS X ENCEPHALARTOS PRINCEPS
INTERESTING HYBRID OF TWO SOUTH AFRICAN CYCADS

SHOULD GROW INTO A STUNNING MATURE PLANT
HOPEFULLY BLUE STACKING LEAFLETS
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE SEEDLINGS

This fascinating hybrid was created by taking male pollen from E. princeps and applying it to a female cone of E. longifolius. This is an F1 hybrid. Both the parents are from South Africa and both were blue. My hopes are that the princeps will give it the beautiful blue color and glamour. We're hoping that the E. longifolius seed bearer will give it stacking of the leaflets and very curved leaves. But, no one can be sure what this hybrid will look like. They are healthy band sized seedlings and already showing blue color. They should like coastal sun and be cold hardy into the low 20's F.

REGULAR PRICE THESE BAND HYBRIDS $75
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS BAND SIZE $55

Easy to mail order. Remember to mention this Special at the time of purchase. I'm showing nursery specimens of both species of this hybrid.



Encephalartos longifolius	Encephalartos princeps

THE SNOWBUSH PLANT
BREYNIA DISTICHA

UNUSUAL GARDEN COMPANION PLANT
SMALLER GREEN, WHITE & PINK BUSH
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 & 5 GALLON SIZES

This sought after smaller bush is native to Asia in various tropical islands. Contrary to the name, it does not survive if you live in an area where it snows. Rather, it looks like a green bush with snow on it. Leaves are green with white accents. With age you also get a flush of pink. Leaves are very small. Mature height it 3 to 4 feet. This species wants full or part day sun. Cold tolerance is a bit below a freeze. This is a very attractive companion plant where one wants an addition of white foliage – perhaps to contrast other colors. I am putting our 1g and 5g on Special. Both are nicely sizes and both can be mail ordered. The one gallon are shown in the first group of photos - the 5g in the second. We have good numbers available but seldom offer them on sale.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $35
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $65

EDIBLE BANANA THAT MANY OF YOU CAN GROW!
MUSA GRAN NAIN

VARIETY THAT CHIQUITA UTILIZES FOR MARKET FRUIT
TEN DAY SPECIAL LARGE 15 GALLON PLANTS

This banana cultivar is popular worldwide and is the variety of choice for Chiquita Banana Company. It is a cultivar of Musa acuminata. It produces a huge amount of bananas if well grown. It is common for one plant to produce over 40 pounds of fruit. The fruit is medium sized, firm and sweet. Plants get to about 9 feet height, sucker when a fruit stem has finished and require half sun or full sun if possible. They benefit from large amounts of compost or soil amendments and do require fertilization to make good fruit. Leaves are typically solid green. They are a quick growing species. They do best in frost free areas but can recover from a freeze. Of note, remove the fruit when it's still a bit green and wait for it to ripen off the tree. We are offering 15g plants on Special. They are nicely sized and most are overhead in their pots. The photo of the fruit is by A-S.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON THIS SIZE $185
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 15 GALLON $155

ALOCASIA SERENDIPITY
AFRICAN MASK HYBRID VARIETY WITH BLACK, PUCKERED LEAVES

GREAT INTERIOR PLANT OR FOR FROST FREE GARDEN AREAS
FOUR TO SIX FEET TALL MATURE - FILTERED LIGHT OR A BIT OF SUN

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

Alocasia are a group of tropical pLants that have diamond or heart shaped leaves. Some like sun, others shade. They are similar to Colocasia. There are over 80 types / hybrids of Alocasia. A.serendipity is known for its puckered dark green-black leaves (dorsal side) and prominently purple undersides. This is a hybrid species that is stunningly pretty inside and can be grown outside if you don’t get a freeze. Inside it wants good indirect light and outdoors filtered light with maybe a bit of direct sun. Leaf size mature is 2 to 3 feet. Leaves are also quite shiny. Older leaves tend to be more green. This species wants filtered light or a bit of sun. This size can be mail ordered, weather permitting.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $75

WEDNESDAY, 16 NOVEMBER, 2022

BECCARIOPHOENIX ALFREDII
THE MADAGASCAR PLATEAU COCONUT PALM

MEDIUM SIZED SINGLE TRUNK
HIGHLY SOUGHT AFTER - FULL SUN
AMAZING HUGE SPECIMENS IN 36 INCH BOX SIZE

TEN DAY SPECIAL ON HUGE CONTAINERIZED SPECIMENS

This species of exotic palm is from the island of Madagascar. It is the third of three Beccariophoenix species described from this palm-loaded country. It is so sought after because some feel that it's the prettiest species of the three. And, because it may possess the best cold hardiness. I've documented other Beccariophoenix species tolerating temperatures below 25 degrees at our nursery. So, this species may survive in areas like San Francisco, Phoenix and Houston. It grows to a height of about thirty feet and does not have a crown shaft. Leaves are long and minimally curved. The crown of leaves are densely placed - so it offers privacy and screening of neighbors. Growth rate is medium in most areas and along the coast it likes sun. This species is hard to find. We're putting on sale the largest plants we've ever had for sale - in 36 inch boxes or 35 gallon bags. Heights in the containers is about twelve feet. Limited supplies.

REGULAR PRICE THESE LARGE SPECIMENS $800
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 36 INCH BOX SIZE $640 (20% OFF)

You must mention this Internet-only special when purchasing to get this price. Limited supplies available. Two habitat photos by TS at RPS.

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

A DEFINITE STATEMENT PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL NICE 24 INCH BOX SIZE

For several decades we've been growing this stunning blue fan palm from Madagascar. These are the blue form. This palm species loves sun, heat and is cold hardy to the low 20’s F. It doesn’t like the grower to fool with or cut its roots. These cannot be transplanted once established in the garden. They get a husky trunk and probably about 35 - 40 feet tall in many decades. The fan leaf is intensely blue, especially with full hot sun. This is a very attractive palm and should be given room in the garden to show it off. Many people in desert locations have found they can grow it. Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F. Shown below is our 24 inch box size. These are followed by the 15 gallon size in the next post. Both sizes are on sale. This species is a real “show-stopper”. Literally people driving by will stop to look at one in your front yard and ask: “Hey Man, what is that blue palm tree?”

REGULAR PRICE 24 INCH BOX SIZE $625
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS BOX SIZE $550

Remember: Mention this Special for this price.

RHAPIS MULTIFIDA
A RARE TYPE OF LADY PALM

ONE OF THE BEST PALMS FOR INSIDE
GREAT GARDEN PLANT AS WELL
SPECIAL OLD 25 GALLON PLANT

REGULAR PRICE THESE 25 GALLON $750
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 25 GALLON $635

The sale plant is shown in the first 6 photos.

RAVENEA HILDEBRANDTII
SEMI-DWARF PINNATE COMORO ISLAND PALM

VERY HARD TO FIND SPECIES – TO EIGHT FEET TALL
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This endangered semi-dwarf palm species is from the Comoro Islands, close to Madagascar. It has a very thin trunk. Although reports of twenty foot palms in habitat exist, in most domestic gardens don't expect anything over ten feet in a lifetime. Trunk diameter is two to three inches. Leaf size is three to four feet. Most have grown this species in part day sun or filtered light. However, I have one customer growing it well in full sun. Cold hardiness is in the mid-twenties F.

Below I am showing our offering of 5 gallon plants which we have available and are putting on a Ten Day Special. This palm does fine in Southern California and is the ultimate of pinnate leaf palms where "short" is needed. I've shown below several shots of mature garden specimens to illustrate this species height.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $235

Remember: Mention this Special for this reduced price when you buy! Only a few available.

BISMARCKIA SPECIES MAYOTTE ISLAND
THE RARE GREEN BISMARCKIA

A BISMARCKIA BUT WITHOUT THE BLUE COLOR
VERY ATTRACTIVE, LARGER GREEN FAN PALM
SPECIAL OLD 15G SIZED PLANTS

One of the favorite characteristics of Bismarckia is the blue color to the leaves. But, there is a green variety on the island of Madagascar. At another location, there is an endemic green Bismarckia known as the "Mayotte Island" form. There is very little published about these green forms of the Bismarck Palm. It likes sun and is probably cold hardy into the low 20's F. Most feel it's not quite as cold hardy as the blue form. On these green Bismarckias, often you'll see red in the leaf stem or a hint of it on the leaves. Of course, this is a full sun palm. This is a very rare palm to find as everyone seeks out the blue type. But, we have this more rare green form and have found they are showing nice cold hardiness to the low 20's F. The plant shown below is about twelve years old. We have a handful of them.

REGULAR PRICE 15G $250
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G $215

CHAMAEDOREA CATARACTARUM
THE CAT PALM

A SEMI-DWARF CLUSTERING PALM
SEMI-DWARF TO SIX FEET
SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This species of palm has been sold under the name "Cat Palm", which is an abbreviation for "cataractarum". For Chamaedoreas and in the past, it was fairly easy to find. Nowadays it's very difficult to find, especially with mature size as shown here. It is a clustering palm that gets six feet tall. It really doesn't form any trunk. It likes water as it has a native habitat near river beds. It is cold hardy into the mid 20's F. and I'd recommend, at most, a few hours of sun or filtered light. It is native to the southern areas of Mexico and possibly into areas of Central America. With less than adequate water it tends to look scrappy. At the nursery, we offer mostly large plants, either 10 or 15 gallon size. They typically are suckering with a near mature height.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $220

Remember to mention this Blog Special for your discount.

CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
THE FLAME THROWER PALM
NEW RED EMERGING LEAF

DARK GREEN CROWN SHAFT
SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

What good fortune is it that New Caledonia can claim to be the home of all Chambeyronia. Included is this species, C. macrocarpa. It is a slow growing, pinnate, crown shafted palm that gets to a height of about 30 feet. It has a dark green to green-black crown shaft. Compare this to C. hookeri above with it's yellow crown shaft. Leaves are wide, thick and leathery to the touch. With good culture, maybe you can get three new leaves a year. About one in twenty plants fail to throw a new red leaf - rather, it remains green. This is just bad luck and there's no way to predict which will do this. Shown here are 5 gallon plants we're putting on sale. We do have larger and smaller sizes available. Coastal sun is tolerated although strong filtered light is ok for most areas. This is a great garden palm.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $115

Just mention this special when you buy. I thank TS at RPS for usage of his photo below.

COCCOTHRINAX BARBADENSIS
MEDIUM SIZED, NARROW TRUNK
VERY "CUTE PALM" WITH GREEN OR SILVER GREEN LEAVES

SPECIAL NICE 5 GALLON

We at the nursery are very proud that we offer a good selection of these interesting New World fan palms - Coccothrinax. This species is native to the Caribbean region and gets to heights of about 30 feet in many decades. Leaf color is green to silver-green and trunks are typically six inches thick or a bit more. This species loves full hot sun and is cold tolerant into the mid-twenties F. Many are growing it with good success. In pots, all Coccothrinax are painfully slow. It's taken us about six years to produce the 5g plants you see here. We do have other sizes for sale and multiple other species of this genus. In the ground they are much faster.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $110

Remember: Mention this Special when you purchase to get this discount.

KENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS
A GREAT CROWN SHAFTED PALM

IDEAL FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
MEDIUM MATURE HEIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

I've discussed this great New Caledonian species before because it is such a good species for those of us in Southern California. It comes from high elevation in its native New Caledonia habitat, is a good growing palm and can tolerate full sun easily along the coastal strip. Its cold hardiness is down to about 23 degrees, better than the King Palm or Kentia Palm. It has an average trunk diameter of eight to ten inches and a mature height of usually about thirty feet. It can also be grown in part day sun or strong filtered light. Shown here is the 5 gallon size we’re putting on special Growth rate on this species is good. This species is highly recommended.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110

The 5 gallon size is shown in the first 5 photos. The garden trees are growing in San Diego County.

CRYOSOPHILA STAURACANTHA
SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED TROPICAL FAN PALM

SILVER UNDERSIDE TO THE LEAVES
MODIFIED SPINES ON TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This single trunk fan palm is native to Southern Mexico and parts of Central America. It can get up to a height of 25 feet but most garden specimens are under 15 feet tall. Two things are quite noteworthy: First, the undersides of the leaves are a silver-white. A picture below of sale size shows this quite well. Secondly, the trunk is narrow and covered with "modified" spines. They are not real sharp and are not true spines. The dorsal side of the leaves is green. This palm likes strong filtered light and right on the coast may take part day sun. Cold tolerance is estimated to be in the high 20's F. Growth rate is medium. You have to have an overhead crown of leaves to really see the silver color.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110

Remember to mention this Special for your discount when you purchase. The plants on sale are shown in the first six photos. I'm also showing a 15g size and a specimen c/o TS at RPS.

PALM SEEDLINGS
FIVE DIFFERENT TYPES ONE SALE

BAND SIZE - EASY TO SHIP
SPECIAL BAND SIZE SPECIES BELOW

Below I am not giving species descriptions or photos of mature specimens. I've just shown the species names. I'm posting these for those who know their species and know what they are looking for. I have shown the most frequently seen common names for the palms below.

TEN DAY SPECIAL - $50 ANY OF THESE SPECIES BELOW

All can be mail ordered within the U.S.

ARCHONTOPHOENIX ALEXANDRAE RARE TYPE KING PALM
CARYOTA GIGAS KING KONG FISHTAIL PALM
CHAMBEYRONIA HOOKERI THE BLOND FLAME THROWER PALM
RHOPALOSTYLIS SAPIDA SHAVING BRUSH PALM
JUBAEA CHILENSIS CHILEAN WINE PALM

DYPSIS PRESTONIANA
SINGLE TRUNK, BEAUTIFUL
A REAL WINNER!

SUPER RARE MADAGASCAR PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

Discovered by John Dransfield and named after a U.K. executive of Macdonald's Hamburgers (who funded the expedition to Madagascar), this single trunk palm is new to the market, super rare and quite attractive. It has orange-brown leaf bases at the point of trunk attachment, plumose leaves and gets to a height of about 25 to 30 feet. It is single trunked with a medium thickness and prominent rings. It takes full sun in coastal areas and, once established, is a good growing palm. Shown here are our band sized seedlings. On occasion we have larger sizes for sale. These are easy to ship. Growers tell us that this species takes temperatures into the mid-20's F. I know of several enthusiasts who live in cool areas and now have fruiting specimens of this species. It is an excellent grower.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $55

Remember: Mention this Blog Special for this price. Easy to mail order. Habitat photo c/o TS at RPS.

CERATOZAMIA KUESTERIANA
SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED CYCAD

COLORFUL EMERGING NEW LEAVES
INLAND FILTERED LIGHT OR COASTAL SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE AS SHOWN

This attractive cycad comes from the Sierra Mountain Range in Mexico near Tamaulipas. There is grows among overhead oak trees. It is a small to medium sized plant, perhaps at most getting a four foot tall caudex. Leaf length is four to five feet. Leaflets are long and narrow, coming to a point. Leaflet color is green. But, newly emerging leaves are a brown-red as shown below. With the 8th photo by Ian Edwards below, you can see how attractive a new swirl of leaves can be. Petioles can be smooth or armed with small spines.

This is an easy to grow species. It can take coastal full sun but inland demands filtered light. Cold tolerance is to the low 20's F. This species is being grown in northern CA and in some other states where they see cooler weather. I’m showing you two plants in citrus pots with new reddish-brown emerging leaves. Caudex sizes are 3 to 3.5 inches. Soil should be well draining in the garden. This species also makes an attractive containerized patio plant.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE CITRUS POT $385
TEN DAY SPECIAL - THIS SIZE $325

Remember to mention this Special at the time of purchase to get this discounted price.

ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII
BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD FOR SUN

GOOD OFFERING OF 15 GALLON PLANTS
LOVES SUN AND HEAT ALONG THE COAST
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This is a popular blue cycad from the Eastern Cape area of South Africa. I say “popular” because some people don't like spines and prickles. The leaflets of this species are narrow with only a point at the end. They are nothing as gnarly as E. horridus. The leaves and crown are very neat and uniform. The nearest species to this one is Encephalartos princeps. Trunks of E. lehmannii can get to five feet, but one with two to three feet of trunk is very old. Leaves average about four feet long and are strongly curled. Sometimes they'll almost do a 180 or more degree re-curve. Leaf color is intensely blue like E. horridus. But, you'll only see this color with full, hot sun. In shade or inside a greenhouse they are often green. Cold hardiness is about 21 to 22 degrees F. In the desert only give it a few hours sun. Next to Encephalartos horridus, this is the second most popular cycad we grow. Shown below is a 15 gallon plant on Special. It has a caudex of 7 inches. We have other that are a bit smaller and less expensive - as well as larger. Most are sun ready. .

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON WITH A 7 INCH CAUDEX $1050
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT SHOWN $890.

This size can possibly be mail ordered. This caudex size price applies to plants that do not have vertical trunk height. The plant on sale is shown in the first six photos below.

ENCEPHALARTOS LATIFRONS - TRAPPES VALLEY
UNBELIEVABLY RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

ONE OF THE MOST COVETED CYCADS ON THE PLANET
MEDIUM SIZED MATURE - GORGEOUS AND DIFFERENT
TEN TEN DAY SPECIAL JUVENILE PLANTS IN 5 GALLON POTS

This extremely rare and hard to obtain species is almost extinct in its habitat location in South Africa. Fewer than a hundred plants remain and specialists say populations are declining. It has green or blue green leaves. There are two distinct cultivars of this plant, "Trappes Valley" and " green hills". Between the two types, the Trappes Valley form is more sought after. The plants on special are this “Trappes Valley” variety – from seed from domestic parents of both sexes of this form. This is a green cycad with a distinctive look. It has large, curved leaves. Leaflets are typically stacked and have wide, prominent lobes (modified spines) on their margins. This is a medium sized plant. Leaves can range in size from a meter to a meter and a half depending on cultivar. Stems tend can reach approximately three meters (ancient plant, this is a VERY slow growing species). It tolerates full sun along the coast and is cold tolerant down to about 22 degrees F. Please protect it from cold if you get colder than this.

We just obtained a nice selection of juvenile plants from a private collector. These are about 3 years old and in 5 gallon pots with 2-3 leaves. One or two have 5 leaves. Be aware that I just found one leaf new seedlings on line selling for $499. These are older and at a better price than this. Be aware these are near impossible to get.

TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE YOUNG 5 GALLON PLANTS AS SHOWN $455

ASSORTED CYCAD SEEDLINGS
VARIOUS SPECIES

MOST FOR SUN - SOME FOR FILTERED LIGHT
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZES AS BELOW

Below I'm showing eight species of exotic cycads from three genera. I'm putting all on a Ten Day Special with the prices shown. I'm not describing each species on this post. The three that can take filtered light are Cycas debaoensis, E. ferox, and Lepidozamia peroffskyana. The others can tolerate full coastal sun. As with all cycads, if you live in a desert area, only give the sun lovers a few hours of sun. All of these can be mail ordered within the U.S.

TEN DAY SPECIAL ALL BAND CYCADS BELOW

Cycas debaoensis
Band Size $85

Encephalarto cerinus
Band size $85

Encephalartos eugene-maraisii
Band size $95

Encephalartos ferox
Band size $55

Encephalartos horridus
Band size $65

Encephalartos munchii
Band size $75

Encephalartos paucidentatus
Band size $75

Lepidozamia peroffskyana
Band size $55

MUSA SUMATRANA ZEBRINA
A NON-FRUITING BANANA ORNAMENTAL BANANA

TOP OF LEAF - RED BLOTCHES ON GREEN
BOTTOM OF LEAF - MAROON
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE GALLON PLANTS

The plants I'm showing here are a non-fruiting type of ornamental Banana. Like most Bananas, it does sucker and the mature height is six to eight feet. It has light green leaves with attractive purple splotches and maroon underside. See photos below. It'd want full sun outdoors (along the coast) and should be cold tolerant well into the mid-twenties F. Some are also growing it as an indoor plant. We're putting our one gallon on sale. See first six photos below. Also shown below is our 15g size of a similar Banana - Musa sumatana hybrid that looks quite similar to the one on sale. But, these 15 gallon plants will produce fruit. In the garden sumatrana zebrina wants at least half day sun. Cold hardiness is into the mid 20's F.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $35

EDIBLE BANANA
MUSA GRAN NAIN

VARIETY THAT CHIQUITA UTILIZES FOR MARKET FRUIT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS

This banana cultivar is popular worldwide and is the variety of choice for Chiquita Banana Company. It is a cultivar of Musa acuminata. It produces a huge amount of bananas if well grown. It is common for one plant to produce over 40 pounds of fruit. The fruit is medium sized, firm and sweet. Plants get to about 9 feet height, sucker when a fruit stem has finished and require half sun or full sun if possible. They benefit from large amounts of compost or soil amendments and do require fertilization to make good fruit. Leaves are typically solid green. They do best in frost free areas but can recover from a freeze. Of note, remove the fruit when it's still a bit green and wait for it to ripen off the tree. We are offering 15g plants on Special. The photo of the fruit is by A-S.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON THIS SIZE $185
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $155

FICUS AURICULATA
AKA FICUS ROXBURHII
THE ROXBURG FIG

LARGE ROUND GREEN LEAVES
RARE MEDIUM SIZE TREE MATURE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON

Only a few times before have we offered this rare round leafed Fig species. It is known for its large round leaves that get twelve to 18 inches across with a drip tip. New leaves emerge bronze or light red. Leaf stems are short. The leaf texture is slightly crinkled. Mature height in the ground is 15 to 30 feet. Fruiting figs cluster on older branches. The trunk is gray colored and smooth. It is a full sun species and cold hardy into the mid-twenties F. These plants were taken by cuttings about 9 months ago from a tree in Southern CA. We only have several left for sale.

TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GALLON $100

The garden specimen below is c/o Wikipedia.

TWO VARIEGATED HIBISCUS
ONE WITH RED FLOWERS, ONE WITH YELLOW

FORM SMALL BUSHES OR TREES
TEN DAY SPECIAL ONE & FIVE GALLON PLANTS

Below I am showing you two different variegated Hibiscus.

1. Variegated Hibiscus cooperi - first five photos - red flower
2. Variegated Hibiscus tileaceus hamoe - photos 6 through 8 - yellow flower

All of our Hibiscus have been propagated from cuttings off a mother tree. Some have several plants per pot. As most of you know, Hibiscus make a bush or small tree. Plants are being grown from temperate to tropical localities. Leaves are typically green with finely serrated edges. The two plants on sale are more rare variegated forms but still have the colorful blossoms. All need adequate sunlight. They do not like severe cold weather. Cold makes the flower buds drop off. Keep them damp but not soggy.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON, EITHER TYPE $40
TEN DAY SPECIAL 3 OR 5 GALLON, EITHER TYPE $85

These can be mail ordered but are sort of fragile for traveling and no guarantees can be for perfect condition arrival.

MONDAY, 14 NOVEMBER, 2022

DINING IN THE GARDEN
WHAT'S NICER THAN EATING OUTSIDE
MEMORIES OF MARDI DARIAN

ANOTHER LOST PALM PIONEER IN 2015

Now deceased and long time friend of mine, Mardi Darian of Vista, California would entertain friends and visitors at an outdoor dining area behind his house. This garden dining location was enchanting and beautiful. Nestled right among towering palms and tropical plants, one could take in the panoramic view of the garden while enjoying a fine meal. All of us should be so lucky. Mardi really had a great eye for garden design. He passed away in August, 2015 and has been missed by many plant enthusiasts.

HYOPHORBE VERSCHAFELTII
THE SPINDLE PALM

MEDIUM MATURE HEIGHT
CIGAR SHAPED TRUNK
SUPER OLD TREES

Most of us know what the Spindle Palm, Hyophorbe verschafeltii, looks like. But, I thought I'd show you pictures of plants that are at least fifty years old. I've been following these particular trees individually for over thirty years and they were large when I first met them. So, here's the "Senior citizens" of Spindle Palms. The fourth photo shows the classic bulge in the mid-trunk. But, on some trees you'll notice this is less apparent - almost as if the central bulge aborts. I can't comment too much on this other than to say that this seems true on occasions and the bulge is less apparent. I wish I had sequential, over the decades, photos of individual trees.

Many are growing this sun-loving species here in Southern California and the tallest ones I know of are ten to twelve feet tall. References say twenty feet is maximum and certainly some of these trees are pushing that height. Cold hardiness is down to about a freeze. At the nursery we have seedlings, 5g and 15g sizes for sale.

Colony of mature trees this species
5 gallon size
15 g size at nursery

ROYSTONEA OLERACEA
THE SOUTH AMERICAN ROYAL PALM

TALL PINNATE PALM WITH LUSH GREEN FOLIAGE
LONG PROMINENT CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE

This species of Royal Palm is native to the lower Caribbean Islands and northern South America. References say it can reach heights of sixty feet but I've personally seen a grove of 100 year old trees in New Caledonia that surpass 100 feet. They are fast growing, have green leaves, a prominent crown shaft and hold their leaves typically in the upper half of the leaf-crown sphere. In other ways, this species is quite similar to the classic Cuban Royal Palm. They want sun and are cold hardy to about 25 degrees F. The size shown here on Special is in a 25 gallon pot and at least ten feet tall in its pot.

REGULAR PRICE 25 GALLON $550
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON $485

COCCOTHRINAX ARGENTEA
MEDIUM SIZED FAN PALM

SMALL TRUNK - SILVER BACK TO LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON SIZE

This medium size and very attractive fan palm is native to areas of Florida, Mexico and into the Caribbean. It has a blue green leaf color with more prominent silver on the underside of the leaf. Taxonomists seem recently to be lumping together Coccothrinax argentea and argentata. Mature height is rarely to twenty feet. Leaves are about three to four feet across and prominently divided into segments. As this species grows, fibrous material falls off the trunk to give a cleaner and more smooth surface. It likes heat and sun. It might also do well in desert areas. Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F. We are putting our 25 gallon plants on sale. Very limited numbers apply. This species is ideal for people who want a thin trunked and different fan palm that doesn’t take up much room and tolerates full hot sun. Note that, in a pot, it is slow growing.

REGULAR PRICE 25 GALLON $550
TEN DAY SPECIAL 25 GALLON $485

Just mention this Blog Special when you purchase for your discount.

DYPSIS LUTESCENS
THE ARECA PALM

VERY DIFFICULT TO FIND LATELY - INDUSTRY WIDE
THE BEST "NEIGHBOR BLOCKER" PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G PLANTS

This is an attractive, suckering, thin trunked palm species is from Madagascar or surrounding areas. The number one reason people buy this species is "to hide something". By this, I mean they want to hide a neighbor, an ugly next door structure, an unsightly fence, the side of a garage, etc. This is an ideal species for this purpose as it suckers and is fairly dense. You can't see through it well. Mature height averages 14 feet in California. Cold hardiness is into the mid-twenties F. Trunk diameter is about 3 inches. It'll take full sun along the coast and far inland areas must give it only morning or filtered sun. These 15g are 6 feet tall in their pots. We have limited numbers available. These will be the first Areca Palms available with any size for months.

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE $255
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON $225 (only a couple left)

To get maximal privacy one would not cut off the small lower suckers.
VERY LIMITED NUMBERS STILL AVAILABLE

CHAMAEDOREA SEIFRITZII
THE MOST CLASSIC OF THE BAMBOO PALMS

MATURE, FLOWERING SIZE 15G
FILTERED LIKE, SHORTER PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON PLANTS

This New World suckering shade palm has pinnate leaves and never gets much above 8 to 9 feet. This is the reason it's so popular. It is sought out as one of the most popular interior palms. This has been the case for about 100 years. A good thing is that it does fit inside the home of the average house without hitting the ceiling. Outdoors, it wants filtered light and is cold hard into the mid, perhaps lower 20's F. The 15g on sale here are about ten or more years old and locally grown. They shouldn't get any taller and have about as many canes as a 15g pot will support. And, they are much more sturdy and hardy than imported plants. They've seen all of our cold weather.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 15G $275
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $235

Just mention this Special at the time of purchase for your discount. Although a tall box is needed, these can be shipped anywhere within the U.S.

RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII
MEDIUM SIZED - GRACEFUL & BEAUTIFUL PALM

SINGLE TRUNK – NICE GREEN CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE

Of the Shaving Brush Palm family, this is the hardest one to find. And, many think it's the prettiest and most desirable species. Some consider it to be a variety of R. baueri. We like to consider it a species. Native to Raoul Island, an island well off the eastern side of New Zealand, this species has a medium sized trunk and reaches a height of twenty five feet. The crown shaft is gorgeous but not as swollen as R. sapida. I have some customers who report the crown shaft being a purple color. On younger plants the leaf stems may shown colors of red to purple. With age they are a brown-green. Leaves are green and arching. Trunks are prominently ringed. It will take coastal sun or part day sun. Some grow it in strong filtered light. Far inland it needs protection from full sun. Growth rate is slow to medium. We’re putting nice 15g plants on sale. See first seven photos. The last photo is c/o cloudforest website.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE $210

Just mention this Blog special at the time of purchase for this discount.

LIVISTONA LANUGINOSA
THE CAPE RIVER LIVISTONA – THE WOOLY LIVISTONA

TALL FAN PALM WITH THIN TRUNK
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

This Australian fan palm is a very interesting species and also known as the "Wooly Livistona". It is apparently threatened in habitat. In the northeastern part of Australia it lives at an altitude of 200 meters. It reaches a height of over fifty feet with a trunk that’s about a foot thick. Leaves are bluish or blue-green, stiff and waxy. Leaf stems have barbs and leaves extend out six to eight feet. It is most similar to Livistona marie but, by report, has larger purple fruit. It is one of the most rare species of this genus. It enjoys full hot sun. Exact cold tolerance is unclear but probably into the mid-twenties F. We have a limited number of 15g which we’re putting on special. The habitat photo is by John Dowe of AU.

REGULAR PRICE 15G SIZE $235
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15G SIZE $210

PRESTOEA MONTANA
AKA PRESTOEA ACUMINATA VAR. MONTANA

RARE PINNATE PALM FROM PUERTO RICO
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G SIZE

Prestoea is a genus that is very closely related to another palm genus, Euterpe. It is found in the Caribbean, Central and South America. Essentially all Euterpe are crown shafted palms. Many of the Prestoea are not. There are also distinctions between the flowers of these two genera. Also, many of the Prestoea are suckering. But, there is one that is single trunk. This is Prestoea montana, native to mountainous areas of Puerto Rico. I've always known of this species as not having a crown shaft. But, I've seen photos (including ones from native habitats) where a crown shaft is seen.

The hallmarks of this species are its wide and very shiny green leaves, its somewhat slender trunk and its overall beautiful appearance. Plant heights can reach forty feet or more. This species should be grown in part day sun or filtered light. It likes rich soil and ample moisture. I'd estimate its cold tolerance is down to about a freeze or a bit less. It is not a species for a beginner to try. We're putting the 5g plants on special. Note that this species has historically been known as "Prestoea montana" but in more recent years has been considered a variety of P. acuminata.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110

HOWEA FORSTERIANA
THE KENTIA PALM

GREAT PATIO OR INTERIOR PALM - OR IN THE GARDEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SINGLES

Howea forsteriana, the popular Kentia Palm, is native to Lord Howe Island. There it lives at lower elevations. At higher elevations up the mountains one sees Howea belmoreana and Hedyscepe. The Kentia does great here in So California. It is a single trunk species that is often grown as a "multiple" with several plants in the same pot. It does NOT sucker. Along the coast it takes full sun or part day sun. Far inland, filtered light is needed. Cold tolerance is about 25 degrees F. Mature height in sun is usually about thirty feet in 30 years. We’re putting very nice 5 gallon plants on special. These plants are singles - not multiples. These can be mail ordered.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110

RHAPIDOPHYLLUM HYSTRIX
THE NEEDLE PALM

WORLD'S MOST COLD HARDY PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON SIZE

There is no doubt in my mind that this species is the most cold tolerant of any palm species. It is native to the southeastern United States with native habitats stretching from South Carolina down to northern Florida and into Alabama and Mississippi. There are reports of this species tolerating below zero degrees F. Now, this doesn't mean that you can grow it in Michigan. But, in areas that see significant cold such as North Carolina, central Texas or even New Mexico, this species might work for you.

It is a suckering fan palm and known as the "Needle Palm" because it forms dark colored, protuberant needles on the trunk. One photo below shows the spines. In sun the leaf color is a silver green with more silver underneath. In shade the color gets dark green, reminiscent of a Rhapis Palm. Trunks are usually under three feet tall and four to six inches thick. But, because the leaves come upwards, the overall height of the plant can be six to seven feet or taller. They can get a bit bushy. The common name of “Needle Palm” comes from the fact that the stubby trunks have long dark colored needles – reminiscent of a knitting needle. This is a very slow growing species that slowly crawls the ground by suckering. These are rare to find for sale. We're putting 5g on special. A photo below showns the needles on the trunk.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 5G $110

PRESTOEA MONTANA
AKA PRESTOEA ACUMINATA VAR. MONTANA

RARE PINNATE PALM FROM PUERTO RICO
TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD SIZE 5 GALLON

Prestoea is a genus that is very closely related to another palm genus, Euterpe. It is found in the Caribbean, Central and South America. Essentially all Euterpe are crown shafted palms. Many of the Prestoea are not. There are also distinctions between the flowers of these two genera. Also, many of the Prestoea are suckering. But, there is one that is single trunk. This is Prestoea montana, native to mountainous areas of Puerto Rico. I've always known of this species as not having a crown shaft. But, I've seen photos (including ones from native habitats) where a crown shaft is seen.

The hallmarks of this species are its wide and very shiny green leaves, its somewhat slender trunk and its overall beautiful appearance. Plant heights can reach forty feet or more. This species should be grown in part day sun or filtered light. It likes rich soil and ample moisture. I'd estimate its cold tolerance is down to about a freeze or a bit less. It is not a species for a beginner to try. We're putting the 5g plants on special. Note that this species has historically been known as "Prestoea montana" but in more recent years has been considered a variety of P. acuminata.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE $110

Remember: Mention this Special for this price! Mail order possible.

SABAL CAUSIARUM
LARGE TRUNKED TROPICAL FAN PALM

SMOOTH AND LIGHT COLORED TRUNK
SUPER COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This is one of my favorite Sabal species. It's native to various Caribbean Islands including Puerto Rico and Cuba. It can get to height of at least 35 feet and has a trunk that is smooth and a light tan to gray color. Trunks are thick, up to about 30 inches. Leaf color is blue-green. Growth rate is good and it likes sun. Cold tolerance is into the mid-teens F. The 5g size shown below are nice. We’re putting this size on sale. Get them in the ground and within a few years you’ll have a decent sized palm. I’m showing some mature plants below as well.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $110

SABAL URESANA
RARE & ATTRACTIVE BLUE FAN PALM

MEDIUM SIZED MATURE – LOVES HEAT AND SUN
VERY DIFFICULT TO FIND FOR SALE
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON SIZE

This extremely blue species of Sabal is from northwestern Mexico in the states of Sonora and Chihuahua. In fact, I had a collector in New Mexico who told me he thinks the natural distribution of this species extends across the U.S. border into New Mexico. But, this is not documented. This species has very long petioles with divided fan leaves attached at their ends. The leaves are blue or blue-green on both sides. This is more apparent when the plants are moved into sun and age. tThe ends of the leaves flex downward, so the leaves appear as if they are hanging down toward the ground. Plants can get over thirty feet tall and in habitat are much taller than this. Trunks get up to eighteen inches thick. They like heat and sun. Cold hardiness is good, into the upper teens F. But, cold along with wet weather can be difficult for this species. We have available some nice 5 gallon which we’re putting on Special. Leaf color is just beginning to turn blue. The last habitat photo is by Jeremy Spath. The last actual photo is a 15g plant which we’ve sold out of.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON $110

EUTERPE EDULIS ORANGE CROWNSHAFT
PROMINENT ORANGE CROWNSHAFT - STUNNING

STUNNING COLOR FOR THE GARDEN
TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GALLON SIZE

Many of you may know of Euterpe edulis, a thin solitary palm with a long green crown shaft. However, in Southern Brazil and possibly northern Argentina, there is a form of this species that has a prominent orange crown shaft. Considered by some to be "Euterpe sp. espiritosantensis", others feel it is a variety of E. edulis. It has a think trunk and a three foot long crownshaft. It wants to be grown in filtered light and to work its way into partial direct sunlight. Cold tolerance is about a freeze. This is a slow growing palm and near impossible to find available. We presently have a very limited number of two gallon plants. They were repotted in winter. In the spring of last year we had a few 5 gallon that sold out in a few days. These are extremely difficult to find and always expensive if you can find one.

TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GALLON $65

I only have a few. The mature specimens photos are c/o Tobias Spanner at RPS.

ROYSTONEA REGIA
THE CUBAN ROYAL PALM

TALL, SINGLE TRUNK SPECIES
ELEGANT WITH LONG CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON SIZE

This super popular palm is native to south Florida and Cuba. It gets a very tall trunk with a height of forty feet or more. The crown shaft is long and a prominent green. The base of the trunk is swollen just above the ground. Often, you'll also see bulging in the mid-trunk. It is a full sun plant and some are growing it in desert areas with success - in full sun. Cold tolerance is like a King Palm, about 25 degrees F. The 1gallon we have are about 18 inches tall in the pot and three to four years old. We also have 15g, 5g and bands. We are hoping to offer larger sizes shortly. There's a shortage of this species on the California market. Some of the photos below show this species being grown in Southern CA. This size is shippable for mail order.

REGULAR PRICE 1 GALLON $65
TEN DAY SPECIAL THESE 1 GALLON $55

Mention this Special for your discount.

READ MORE ABOUT ROYAL PALMS

DYPSIS ARENARUM
THE SAND PALM

SIMILAR TO DYPSIS LUTESCENS
BUT WHITE CROWN SHAFT
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This thin trunked suckering palm is native to Madagascar where, in the northeastern area, it lives close to the sandy beaches. Thus the common name. It has green curved leaves with small leaflets. The tubular crown shaft is white and the thin trunk is ringed. It is distinguished from the Areca Palm by it's reddish petioles and blue-green leaflets. It typically forms a clump of four to five individual plants. It tolerates coastal sun and is cold hardy in the mid to upper 20's F. It is as rare species. We rarely have it for sale.

TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $55

SABAL LOUISIANA
THE LOUISIANA PALMETTO PALM

SUPER SMALL, SUPER COLD HARDY FAN PALM
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE

This dwarf fan palm is touted as being the smallest variety of Sabal. It is a variety of Sabal minor that has been found in the wild in Louisiana and adjacent states on either side. It has blue-green leaves with a mature height of six feet. It is also super cold hardy with reports of it going a bit below zero F. As it is an understory palm in habitat, one would anticipate it'd do well in strong filtered light or perhaps half day sun. In the 5th photo it is the band palm in the staff's right hand. On the left is the Sabal etonia. Both are nicely sized. The last photo is c/o TS at RPS. This is a difficult species to find.

REGULAR PRICE BAND SIZE $60
TEN DAY SPECIAL BAND SIZE $50

CYCAS PANZHIHUAENSIX X CYCAS DEBAOENSIS
CYCAD HYBRID OF TWO RARE SPECIES

NEVER AVAILABLE BEFORE
CAN'T EXACTLY PREDICT MATURE APPEARANCE
TEN DAY SPECIAL OVERSIZED ONE GALLON

We're offering on special a very rare hybrid of the genus Cycas. Both parents are native to China. The C. panzhiuaensis is known for it's medium size, blue-green foliage in sun and cold tolerance. Cycas debaoensis is known for it's mutlipinnate leaves and fluffy leaf appearance. I've only had these plants off and on for about a year. There are no pictures of mature plants available. It should make a small to medium sized adult plant and take at least part day with a cold hardiness into the low 20's F. The plants on special are super large one ore one and a half gallons with about 2 inch thick caudexes. They need to be repotted or planted.

REGULAR PRICE THESE 1 GALLON $145
DAY SPECIAL THESE PLANTS $120

Remember to mention this Blog Special when you purchase to get this price. The first garden photo is the panzhihuaensis and the next is the debaoensis.

ENCEPHALARTOS LEBOMBOENSIS
MEDIUM SIZED SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

GREEN LEAVES – FAIRLY COLD HARDY
TEN DAY SPECIAL TWO GALLON SIZE

Encephalartos lebomboensis is native to the Lebombo Mountains in South Africa. It is most closely related to Encephalartos senticosus. Leaves are green, typically three to five feet long and have thin, heavily spined leaflets. But, overall, this is not a large cycad species. In fact, it is relatively compact for an Encephalartos. In a lifetime most would see a mature tree that has perhaps six feet of trunk. There are many century old plants in the wild with fifteen to twenty feet of trunk. Overall, the crown width is about six feet. This species wants full sun along the coast and has a cold tolerance to the low 20's F. It is not hard to grow. The plants shown are in 2 gallon pots with a caudex of 2 inches

REGULAR PRICE THIS SIZE, THIS SPECIES $135
TEN DAY SPECIAL 2 GALLON $115

ENCEPHALARTOS LANATUS
A RARE BLUE CYCAD FROM SOUTH AFRICA

LOVES HEAT AND SUN – VERY THIN LEAFLETS
SPECIAL CITRUS POT SIZE

This beautiful South African species of cycad is best known for the silvery throw of new leaves that it displays. It has a medium sized trunk, usually to a maximum height of six feet. It does sucker from the base. Leaves are about three feet long and arching downward. The leaflets are very narrow and essentially unarmed. When new leaves emerge they are a brilliant silver in color. I was absolutely stunned by the beauty of this species the first time I saw a mature plant throw new leaves. As they age, they become more of a blue green color.

The native locality for this species experiences extremes in weather from very high summer heat to definite freezes in winter. In the garden, this species demands sun. I'd estimate cold hardiness to be in the low 20's. It is a good species for those in cooler areas who still get summer heat. .

Shown here is a citrus pot sized plant that has a caudex of 2.75 inches. Remember that rare cycads are sold by their caudex size. We’re offering nice prices on this size. If you buy one and it’s a bit smaller caudex size, it’ll cost less. If it’s bigger, it’ll be more.

REGULAR PRICE CITRUS POT WITH 2.75 INCHES OF CAUDEX $480
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $410

This size is easy to mail order.

ENCEPHALARTOS TRANSVENOSUS
THE MODJADJI CYCAD
LARGE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD SPECIES

GREEN LEAVES - QUICK GROWING
TEN DAY SPECIAL 15 GALLON SIZE

Shown here below are 15 gallon sized plants of a larger green South African cycad that, in the ground, makes a magnificent specimen cycad. Encephalartos transvenosus gets enormous with trunks over 20 feet tall. It is native to the Modjadji Forest area of South Africa. Leaves are six to eight feet long and leaflets are shiny, dark green with some glaucous faint hairs on the leaflets. This is not a small cycad and needs plenty of room to grow and trunk out. It makes a big show. The plants on special below are in the 15 gallon size with caudexes of 4 to 5 inches – age 8 to 10 years. They can be easily shipped within the U.S. but would require a large box. See first four photos. This size is shown in the first six photos below. Following are photos of garden plants. The eight photo shows cycads with about 15 feet of trunk. Of course, this will take a century or two to achieve. This is a full sun species along the coast with a cold tolerance is 22 degrees F.

REGULAR PRICE 15 GALLON THIS SIZE $500
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $395

But, mention this special to get this price when purchasing.

ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

UPRIGHT GREEN LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL GOOD SIZED 15G CYCAD

This rare cycad is native to Swaziland, northern South Africa. It is known as one of the most attractive of all the green cycads. It does great in Southern California but is rare and hard to find. New leaves tend to be upright. Most pronounced is the "frost" appearance of leaves as shown below. This is from small hairs on the leaflets. Compared to other cycads leaflets are fairly thin – and they carry spines. It makes a medium to large mature specimen. Mature size can be over fifteen feet with 6 to 10 foot green leaves. Along the coast it’ll take full sun. Far inland I’d recommend limited sun. Cold tolerance is down to the low 20’s F. The plant on Special is in a 15g pot and has an 8 inch caudex and is shown in the first six photos below.

REGULAR PRICE THIS ACTUAL 15 GALLON CYCAD $1280
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS ACTUAL PLANT $880

Below I'm showing photos of a large 25g specimen at the nursery - photo #7 below. We have a few seedlings.

REX BEGONIA - FIREWOMAN
UNUSUAL MULTI-COLORED LEAVES

NICE COMPANION PLANT
TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON SIZE

Begonia are a very large class of plants, sometimes used in the garden and patio but also as houseplants. There are about 1500 different species or hybrids. This particular variety – Rex Begonia Firewoman - is different and very colorful. Leaves show prominent pink/red color with silver and purple bands. But they are not the easiest Begonia to grow. Leaves have a crinkled texture. They like filtered light with soil that is slightly damp but not soggy. It’s usually said that this species is for zones 10 and 11. We’ve found they can go down to almost a freeze. These plants have will have smaller pink blossoms in summer.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 1 GALLON $30

Mention this Special for your discount

VARIEGATED NEOROGELIA SPECIES
CLUSTERS WITH WHITE LONGITUDINAL STRIPES

GETS FLUSH OF PINK IN SOME SUN
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G CLUSTERS

This attractive yet not overly large Bromeliad is quite pretty and a good grower. It'll take some sun but probably not full sun. In the sun it'll develop a pink flush centrally. Heads are small with green leaves that have long white margins. Each cluster has three to four heads (plants). It tolerates a freeze.

TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G CLUSTERS $65

THE TRAVELER PALM
RAVENALA MADAGASCARENSIS
BANANA APPEARING TREE IN ONE PLANE

CAN BE GROWN IN SOUTHERN CA
NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND LATELY
TEN DAY SPECIAL FIVE GALLON SIZE

For over a year folks have called us to obtain smaller sized Traveler Palms. But, we didn't have any. In fact, the industry is totally sold out of this species. We can now announce that we have available a small number of fairly nice 5 gallon plants. They are about 3 feet tall in their pots. We have about ten for sale. This is a quick growing plant and these should do well for most of you that don't freeze. They like sun in most areas but do not take a freeze - which will melt them overnight. Also be aware that they do sucker. We recommend removing the suckers as they look better as a single trunk plant. Remember, this species puts out banana type leaves in one plane. We’re putting our 5 gallon on sale. The 7th photo is c/o JS and the 8th by Wikipedia.

REGULAR PRICE 5G $125
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5G $100

To read more on the Traveler Palm, click here:
TRAVELER PALM ARTICLE

ALOCASIA WENTII
SEMI-DWARF TROPICAL ELEPHANT EAR PLANT

PURPLE UNDERSIDE TO LEAVES
TEN DAY SPECIAL 5 GALLON PLANTS

This is a species of Elephant Ear Alocasia. Some feel it comes from the island of New Guinea but others feel that it is a hybrid of unknown origin. The reason I mention it is because it is known to be quite cold hardy, perhaps even adaptable to growing zone 7B. It is a small plant, typically under 3 feet. The leaves are smaller than many other Elephant Ear Plants. The dorsal side of the leaves are green (sometimes black-green) while the underside is purple-black. It prefers to stay dry in the winter when cold and likes filtered light. It is a nice companion plant for any garden. Cold tolerance is easily into the upper twenties F. Shown below are good sized 5 gallon with multiple stems. Of note, some are using this species as an interior plant.

REGULAR PRICE 5 GALLON THIS SPECIES $95
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $75

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when you purchase. Mail order possible.

DICHORISANDRA THYRIFLORA
THE BLUE GINGER - HARD TO FIND

SHORT TO MEDIUM SIZE - BLUE BLOSSOMS
TEN DAY SPECIAL SEVEN GALLON, GARDEN READY PLANTS

This is actually not a true Ginger at all. It is native to all areas of the new world including the U.S. It produces actual blue flowers. We have a limited number of two gallon plants that we’re putting on special. This is a starter size. This species wants filtered light in a warmer coastal area. In fact, some along the coast succeed with several hours of morning sun. They are late blooming compared to almost all other “Gingers”. They tend to blossom in fall. In somewhat colder regions, they may need protection from a freeze. They do sucker and canes are thin. Expect mature height at about five feet. This plant is not for full, hot sun. They need average water – backing off when it’s cold. These are rare to see for sale. We are offering 7 gallon plants on Sale.

REGULAR PRICE SEVEN GALLON $175
TEN DAY SPECIAL THIS SIZE $150

Remember to mention this Blog Only Special when purchasing

TILLANDSIA SPECIES WITH VIOLET BLUE FLOWERS
CLUSTERS IN BLOSSOM IN SPRINGTIME

A TYPE OF AIR PLANT - JUST IN
TEN D

HOW THIS BLOG WORKS New plant arrivals, desirable species and requested plants included New species described every few days, most recent posts at top of thread Jump to older Blog Threads from links below. Blog discusses palm trees, cycads and tropical plants	LEARN ABOUT PALM TREES AND CYCADS Brief comments given below. We trim this thread frequently to maintain 30 day run. Information on sun requirements and cold tolerance given if available Pictures of mature specimens shown when possible In depth posts with lots of photos on some species
PRICING ON PLANTS SHOWN On some plants, pricing given with the post You can use quick link for all our prices: PALM PRICES OR CYCAD PRICES	SPECIALS AND SALES Specials below apply to drop in visits or mail orders. Photos are representative. All specials have a termination date and always expire when the current thread expires Ten Day Specials expire ten days after date of posting and are marked in red color. For any sale prices, you must mention all Blog Only Sale Prices when purchasing
DIRECTIONS TO NURSERY CLICK HERE for printable copy of DIRECTIONS 450 Ocean view Ave, Encinitas, CA 92024 Hours: M-Sat, 9AM to 4PM	CONTACT INFORMATION: Phone: 619 291 4605 Email: phil@junglemusic.net or click here FOR INSTANT EMAIL TO Phil
MAIL ORDERS Most orders sent in boxes with Fed Exp. No international shipping. Plants shipped in pots with soil. For larger plants use trucking services.	DELIVERIES (larger orders or larger plants) To almost anywhere within the continental U.S. Quite affordable. We deliver or we utilize independent trucking services on any size plants.

Butia capitata seeds with fresh yellow fruit	Chambeyronia seeds with red fruit Green seeds, not ready to pick	Livistona saribus seeds with blue fruit
Cleaning fruit off Jubaea chilensis	Float test: Note floating seeds	Float test - Astrocaryum seeds floating
Float Test: Note good seeds sink to bottom	Sinking seeds on float test	*Cavity in bad Astrocaryum mexicanum* seeds**
Cavity in Astrocaryum mexicanum	*Cavity in bad Gastrococos crispa* seeds**	Cavity in Gastrococus crispa


		A different, even bigger 20g specimen
A different, much older 15g specimen

Tree with ripe red fruit	First tree in fruit. All seeds are green
Another specimen with ripening fruit

Cycas debaoensis Band Size $85

Encephalarto cerinus Band size $85

Encephalartos eugene-maraisii Band size $95

Encephalartos ferox Band size $55

Encephalartos horridus Band size $65

Encephalartos munchii Band size $75

Encephalartos paucidentatus Band size $75

Lepidozamia peroffskyana Band size $55




Colony of mature trees this species	5 gallon size	15 g size at nursery

PALM TREE, CYCAD & TROPICAL PLANT BLOG PLANTS FOR SALE

SPECIAL SALE ITEMS

NEW PLANT ARRIVALS & DISCOUNT PLANTS PALM TREE, CYCAD AND TROPICAL PLANT BLOG

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS EXAMPLES OF MEDIUM SIZED PLANTS FOR SALE

RHOPALOSTYLIS HYBRID SAPIDA X BAUERI

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

RHAPIDOPHYLLUM HYSTRIX THE NEEDLE PALM

RHAPIS EXCELSA THE REGULAR LADY PALM

ARCHONTOPHOENIX "TERACARPA" THE BEST KING PALM EVER!

TRITHRINAX CAMPESTRIS BLUE, SUCKERING FAN PALM

HOWEA BELMOREANA THE SENTRY OR UMBRELLA PALM

BURRETIOKENTIA HAPALA AN EXOTIC NEW CALEDONIAN PALM FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

ROYSTONEA OLERACEA THE SOUTH AMERICAN ROYAL PALM

DIOON HOLMGRENII RARE MEXICAN DIOON CYCAD

ENSETE VENTICOSUM "MAURELII" THE RED BANANA

HAWAIIAN TI PLANTS GREAT COLOR FOR THE GARDEN ASSORTMENT OF NEW VARIETIES AT NURSERY

ASSORTED BROMELIADS NEW ONES ARRIVING ALMOST WEEKLY

PINANGA JAVANA SINGLE TRUNK, TROPICAL & EXOTIC SPECIES

PHOENIX SYLVESTRIS TALL PALM WITH BLUE-GREEN LEAVES

BRAHEA NITIDA FLAT GREEN LEAF - NATIVE TO MEXICO

CHAMAEDOREA MICROSPADIX SEMI-DWARF SUCKERING BAMBOO PALM

CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA DWARF SINGLE TRUNK

DYPSIS DECARYI THE TRIANGLE PALM

BUTIA PARAGUAYENSIS BLUE-GREEN BUTIA FROM SOUTH AMERICA

ENCEPHALARTOS KISAMBO EXOTIC CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD

BLUE STAR FERN PHLEBODIUM AUREUM

LIGULARIA TUSSILANGINEA LILY-LIKE, FLAT GREEN LEAVES

HIBISCUS MIDNIGHT RED BLOSSOM

BAD PALM SEEDS? HOW CAN YOU TELL?

CHAMAEDOREA CATARACTARUM THE CAT PALM

HEDYSCEPE CANTERBURYANA FROM LORD HOWE ISLAND

SUPER UNUSUAL ENCEPHALARTOS HYBRID F2 HYBRID WITH E. WOODII POLLEN

PLUMERIA PLANTS LARGE ONE GALLON AVAILABLE PRETTY AND DESIRABLE VARIETIES

CYCAD SEEDLINGS - LOTS OF THEM GROWN IN BAND CONTAINERS

RHAPIS MULTIFIDA A RARE TYPE OF LADY PALM

CHAMAEDOREA TEPEJILOTE SINGLE TRUNK, TALL SHADE-LOVING PINNATE PALM

ARCHONTOPHOENIX BEATRICAE RARE VARIETY OF THE KING PALM

SERENOA REPENS SOUGHT AFTER BLUE FORM

RHAPIS EXCELSA THE LADY PALM

CERATOZAMIA HILDAE DWARF FILTERED LIGHT CYCAD

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS X ENCEPHALARTOS PRINCEPS INTERESTING HYBRID OF TWO SOUTH AFRICAN CYCADS

RHAPIS MULTIFIDA A RARE TYPE OF LADY PALM

RAVENEA HILDEBRANDTII SEMI-DWARF PINNATE COMORO ISLAND PALM

CHAMAEDOREA CATARACTARUM THE CAT PALM

CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA THE FLAME THROWER PALM NEW RED EMERGING LEAF

KENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS A GREAT CROWN SHAFTED PALM

CRYOSOPHILA STAURACANTHA SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED TROPICAL FAN PALM

ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD FOR SUN

DYPSIS LUTESCENS THE ARECA PALM

RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII MEDIUM SIZED - GRACEFUL & BEAUTIFUL PALM

LIVISTONA LANUGINOSA THE CAPE RIVER LIVISTONA – THE WOOLY LIVISTONA

HOWEA FORSTERIANA THE KENTIA PALM

ENCEPHALARTOS LEBOMBOENSIS MEDIUM SIZED SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

ENCEPHALARTOS LANATUS A RARE BLUE CYCAD FROM SOUTH AFRICA

ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

REX BEGONIA - FIREWOMAN UNUSUAL MULTI-COLORED LEAVES

PALM TREE, CYCAD & TROPICAL PLANT BLOG
PLANTS FOR SALE

NEW PLANT ARRIVALS & DISCOUNT PLANTS
PALM TREE, CYCAD AND TROPICAL PLANT BLOG

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS
EXAMPLES OF MEDIUM SIZED PLANTS FOR SALE

RHOPALOSTYLIS HYBRID
SAPIDA X BAUERI

BISMARCKIA NOBILIS
BLUE SINGLE TRUNK FAN PALM FROM MADAGASCAR

RHAPIDOPHYLLUM HYSTRIX
THE NEEDLE PALM

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE REGULAR LADY PALM

ARCHONTOPHOENIX "TERACARPA"
THE BEST KING PALM EVER!

TRITHRINAX CAMPESTRIS
BLUE, SUCKERING FAN PALM

HOWEA BELMOREANA
THE SENTRY OR UMBRELLA PALM

BURRETIOKENTIA HAPALA
AN EXOTIC NEW CALEDONIAN PALM FOR SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

ROYSTONEA OLERACEA
THE SOUTH AMERICAN ROYAL PALM

DIOON HOLMGRENII
RARE MEXICAN DIOON CYCAD

ENSETE VENTICOSUM "MAURELII"
THE RED BANANA

HAWAIIAN TI PLANTS
GREAT COLOR FOR THE GARDEN
ASSORTMENT OF NEW VARIETIES AT NURSERY

ASSORTED BROMELIADS
NEW ONES ARRIVING ALMOST WEEKLY

PINANGA JAVANA
SINGLE TRUNK, TROPICAL & EXOTIC SPECIES

PHOENIX SYLVESTRIS
TALL PALM WITH BLUE-GREEN LEAVES

BRAHEA NITIDA
FLAT GREEN LEAF - NATIVE TO MEXICO

CHAMAEDOREA MICROSPADIX
SEMI-DWARF SUCKERING BAMBOO PALM

CHAMAEDOREA TENELLA
DWARF SINGLE TRUNK

DYPSIS DECARYI
THE TRIANGLE PALM

BUTIA PARAGUAYENSIS
BLUE-GREEN BUTIA FROM SOUTH AMERICA

ENCEPHALARTOS KISAMBO
EXOTIC CENTRAL AFRICAN CYCAD

BLUE STAR FERN
PHLEBODIUM AUREUM

LIGULARIA TUSSILANGINEA
LILY-LIKE, FLAT GREEN LEAVES

HIBISCUS MIDNIGHT
RED BLOSSOM

BAD PALM SEEDS?
HOW CAN YOU TELL?

CHAMAEDOREA CATARACTARUM
THE CAT PALM

HEDYSCEPE CANTERBURYANA
FROM LORD HOWE ISLAND

SUPER UNUSUAL ENCEPHALARTOS HYBRID
F2 HYBRID WITH E. WOODII POLLEN

PLUMERIA PLANTS
LARGE ONE GALLON AVAILABLE
PRETTY AND DESIRABLE VARIETIES

CYCAD SEEDLINGS - LOTS OF THEM
GROWN IN BAND CONTAINERS

RHAPIS MULTIFIDA
A RARE TYPE OF LADY PALM

CHAMAEDOREA TEPEJILOTE
SINGLE TRUNK, TALL
SHADE-LOVING PINNATE PALM

ARCHONTOPHOENIX BEATRICAE
RARE VARIETY OF THE KING PALM

SERENOA REPENS
SOUGHT AFTER BLUE FORM

RHAPIS EXCELSA
THE LADY PALM

CERATOZAMIA HILDAE
DWARF FILTERED LIGHT CYCAD

ENCEPHALARTOS LONGIFOLIUS X ENCEPHALARTOS PRINCEPS
INTERESTING HYBRID OF TWO SOUTH AFRICAN CYCADS

RHAPIS MULTIFIDA
A RARE TYPE OF LADY PALM

RAVENEA HILDEBRANDTII
SEMI-DWARF PINNATE COMORO ISLAND PALM

CHAMAEDOREA CATARACTARUM
THE CAT PALM

CHAMBEYRONIA MACROCARPA
THE FLAME THROWER PALM
NEW RED EMERGING LEAF

KENTIOPSIS OLIVIFORMIS
A GREAT CROWN SHAFTED PALM

CRYOSOPHILA STAURACANTHA
SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED TROPICAL FAN PALM

ENCEPHALARTOS LEHMANNII
BLUE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD FOR SUN

DYPSIS LUTESCENS
THE ARECA PALM

RHOPALOSTYLIS CHEESEMANII
MEDIUM SIZED - GRACEFUL & BEAUTIFUL PALM

LIVISTONA LANUGINOSA
THE CAPE RIVER LIVISTONA – THE WOOLY LIVISTONA

HOWEA FORSTERIANA
THE KENTIA PALM

ENCEPHALARTOS LEBOMBOENSIS
MEDIUM SIZED SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

ENCEPHALARTOS LANATUS
A RARE BLUE CYCAD FROM SOUTH AFRICA

ENCEPHALARTOS PAUCIDENTATUS
MEDIUM TO LARGE RARE SOUTH AFRICAN CYCAD

REX BEGONIA - FIREWOMAN
UNUSUAL MULTI-COLORED LEAVES