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Tropical, Exotic and Rare Plants Magazine

Volume 1, Issue 1 

January 1, 2005

Introduction to Cochliostema
By Sheri Ann Richerson

Cochliostema jacobiana
Photo courtesy of Natural Selections Exotics
Cochliostema odoratissimum was first discovered and named in 1847. Later it was re-named Cochliostema jacobianum by a Mr. Linden who introduced the plant at the Paris Exhibition of 1867. Mr. Linden exhibited the plant in full foliage and then sent the plant to England . The name comes from the Greek word kochlos which means spiral shell and stema which means stamen.

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Collector’s Corner - Cultivation Issues of Rare Plants
By Sheri Ann Richerson

Magazine Spotlight

Many people believe that a plant should simply be left alone in the wild to fend for itself. Many issues come into play with this belief including trying to figure out what made the plant become rare and endangered in the first place. Plant thieves, animals or the destruction of their natural habitat are just a few reasons a plant could become rare in its native habitat.

Once a group of rare plants are found is it ethical to disclose the location of the plants? This opens yet another can of worms. It is a known fact that many plants have been removed from their habitat by various people and are now considered extinct. Re-introducing a species into the wild has its drawbacks. One of those drawbacks is the possibility that the plant may not adapt to being re-introduced into the wild after being in cultivation.

Where can I get that? Each month this will article will feature a different business. 

Upcoming Plant Shows and Sales

Spotlight on Plant Societies
Each month this feature will give details on different plant societies and organizations.

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Above: King Anthurium
Anthurium veitchii

 

Photos courtesy of Natural
Selections Exotics

 

Below: Queen Anthurium
Anthurium warocqueanum

King and Queen Anthurium Rule Collectors World
By Sheri Ann Richerson

“Anthurium warocqueanum – or as it is commonly called Queen Anthurium - is absolutely one of the most spectacular foliage Anthuriums around.  I searched for years to be able to offer this gorgeous aroid. The long leaves have to be seen to be believed,” according to Enid Offolter, owner of Natural Selections Exotics Nursery in Florida .

This magnificent species will eventually produce leaves measuring three feet long and almost a foot across of a deep velvety green accented by sparkling crystal white veins. “This is a cool growing species and prefers temperatures in the mid 60's to the low 80's,” Offolter advised.

The next grand Anthurium is Anthurium veirchii or as it is commonly called King Anthurium

“Anthurium veitchii is one of the more challenging Anthuriums to grow since it prefers cooler temps between 70-80 degrees, constant humidity and shade. This plant is well worth taking the time to meet its needs,” Offolter said.

The minimum temperature for this species is 60 degrees. They are best displayed in a hanging basket since the leaves can get up to 4-6 ft long. The foliage is extremely variable and almost all species demand low to bright light in shady conditions. They prefer the soil to be loose, extremely rich in organic content and very well drained. Anthurium need to be grown in a spot that has protection from the wind in order to keep their foliage from being damaged.

Anthurium make excellent houseplants. Regular indoor lighting conditions are ok since they are low light plants and warmth is essential.  All Anthurium need regular watering and fertilization even during the winter months.

If your quest is a large foliage plant that will make a statement inside or outside be sure to check out the King and Queen Anthurium. After all not many plants can rule the collectors world!

Click here to join the ongoing discussion on these cool plants.


Where can I find these plants?

Natural Selections Exotics 

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Questions or comments? E-mail us at SheriAnnRicherson@exoticgardening.com or call us at 765-664-6916

 

 

 

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Contact Sheri Ann Richerson
(765) 664-6916
SheriAnnRicherson @exoticgardening.com
http://sheriannricherson.exoticgardening.com