Our Plants

Trifidacanthus unifoliolatus is a unique leguminous shrub, in fact the only species in its genus Trifidacanthus. Native to Southeast Asia, including Hainan (China), Vietnam, the Philippines, it grows in wet tropical and semi‐open habitats. One distinctive feature is its trifid (three‐pointed) spines, which develop from old flowering stems and stalks as these structures harden. The leaves are relatively small leathery, and often have a single leaflet (hence its specific epithet unifoliolatus), despite being in a genus of legumes. The plant blooms from spring through summer with small purple, flowers that smell similar to grapes,. In horticulture it is sometimes called the “Vietnamese Blue Bell Tree,” and is cultivated ornamentally (including as bonsai), for its attractive flowers and unusual, twisty and spiny growth habit.

Chenille plant is a tropical shrub native to the South Pacific, particularly New Guinea and the Malay Archipelago. Belonging to the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae), it is valued for its striking, fuzzy red flower spikes that resemble chenille yarn, often reaching up to 18 inches in length. These vibrant blooms, which can appear year-round in warm climates, make it a favorite ornamental plant in gardens and containers. Acalypha hispida thrives in humid environments with full sun to partial shade and is especially attractive to pollinators like butterflies and bees. While beautiful, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so caution is advised around pets and children.