2022 New Plants

Unusual for the Florida Flame Azalea! Whorls of deep rich rosy pink to near red, pointed, tubular buds open to display the large light to medium pink, lightly fragrant, butterfly pollinated flowers that are produced in early spring atop the still bare stems. The Yellow River Pink Florida Flame Azalea, Rhododendron austrinum typically produces flowers in shades of yellow and orange and so this is quite uncommon for this species, was discovered by Ron Miller along the banks of the Yellow River in Alabama. As is typical for the native deciduous Azaleas, this is a naturally upright to vase shaped growing plant that rounds out somewhat at maturity and the foliage and new growth begin to emerge about the time the flowering season ends. As with other Azaleas and Rhododendrons, the Yellow River Pink Azalea will need a well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter with average moisture and will benefit greatly from an organic mulch, such as pine straw, to help maintain more even moisture levels during the growing season. They can be grown in full sun under good conditions but may benefit from midday or afternoon shade to filtered shade, especially in drier conditions. Images courtesy of Ron Miller, all rights reserved. Item#12743

Long-lived flattened spikes composed of vibrant golden yellow bracts emerge from the low cupped rosettes of smooth rich green foliage in midspring and under good conditions it may be in flower again for the winter holidays. The sunny yellow tubular flowers emerge one or two at the time from between the bracts. The neat compact habit, vigor, and long-lasting colorful bracts make this Vrisea hybrid an easy choice for adding that lush tropical look any shaded area of a patio, porch, atrium, or as an indoor plant. A choice plant as a center piece for outdoor sitting areas. Provide high humidity in an area with medium to high indirect light for optimum growth and flowering. Multiplies readily. Item# 12763

The ovate light green tropical foliage is alternately banded with contrasting dark and light green and has a light green midvein and edging. The Zebra Plant, Goeppertia zebrina previously Calathea zebrinus, adds a delightful tropical look whether it is used as a specimen container plant or as a perennial in shaded gardens and landscapes. This is an easy to grow tropical, naturally evergreen, rhizomatous perennial from southeastern Brazil that prefers an average moist soil rich in organic matter with good drainage as it never wants to remain soggy wet. Prefers high humidity levels which may be supplemented when grown indoors by setting it in a saucer fill with rocks and water. The Zebra Plant has earned the Royal Horticulture Society Award of Garden Merit for its easy going yet durable nature. Item# 12291