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| DRAMATIC SEED PODS PRODUCED BY LARGE CLERODENDRUM | |
| Published: November 29, 1997 | |
Skyrocket clerodendrums star-shaped pods are red with green centersQ:When the freeze threatened recently we cut the branches of our skyrocket clerodendrum so that we could save the pods. As you can see in the picture, the pods are very dramatic in shape and color.A:In October we published a picture of the cream-colored bell-shaped flowers of this 15-foot clerodendrum (C. indicum) which grows at Orchid Gardens Nursery. What a contrast to see the colorful pods of this interesting plant!Also known as Turks turban, this old garden plant grows fast and tall and propagates readily by seed to the point that many consider it invasive. In blooms in late summer, with flower clusters developing into the unusual seed pods in fall. Selecting shade treesQ:I live in Lafayette, have a bare back yard, and would like to plant one or two trees. Something that would not take 10 years to grow into a nice, shade producing tree.A:The fastest growing trees are deciduous, which means that the leaves will fall in autumn and there will be less shade and more available sunlight in winter. Fast-growing trees tend to be shorter-lived (15-20 years). Some of my favorite trees fall into this category.The first that come to mind is Chinese tallow tree (Sapium sabiferum). Also known as popcorn tree, it grows very fast, producing a relatively large specimen in 3-5 years, especially when transplanted with a trunk diameter of approximately 1- 1 inches. In addition to fast growth, it offers beautiful fall foliage and attractive seed pods that look like popcorn and are used in various crafts. Typical mature size is 20-30 feet with a rounded crown. Chinese tallow is not usually available in nurseries; however, if you decide on this tree and we send out a call, our readers will almost surely provide you with free seedlings. The second tree that comes to mind is the native river birch (Betula nigra). This tree is especially ornamental because of its reddish brown bark peeling off in thin curly flakes, revealing whitish undersurfaces. The leaves and branches produce a lacy effect in summer and the fall foliage is sometimes colorful. This tree, also, grows very quickly and reaches a mature height of 40-50 feet with an irregular crown. River birch is readily available from plant nurseries. It is attractive planted as a single multi-trunked specimen or in groups of three. Nuns orchid reported to have gorgeous late winter bloomsQ:Recently I bought a plant called nuns orchid, and I am looking for information about growing it. I understand that "Southern Living" magazine published an article on it but I dont know the date.A:An article on nuns orchid was published in the February, 1996, issue of "Southern Living." Phaius tankervilliae is called nuns orchid because the hooded flowers resemble a nuns veil. The plant requires winter protection near a bright window with evenly moist soil and monthly feedings with 20-20-20 liquid fertilizer. Bloom is during late winter when large specimens will send up 3-foot stalks of white and reddish brown flowers. When danger of frost has passed, it may be placed outdoors in filtered sun with monthly feedings continued. Nuns orchid is reported to be easy to grow, hard to kill, and easy to divide for sharing with others. |