Troppo’s Plant Collection
Battling the Bugs and Boosting Branches: Air Layering My Silk Floss Tree (Ceiba speciosa)
Feeling a bit like a wilted houseplant myself lately, caught in that frustrating in-between zone of illness. But even amidst the sniffles and fatigue, the urge to get my hands dirty in the garden persisted! And today, I managed to tackle a project I've been itching to try: air layering my beautiful ...
Banana Ensete ventricosum (Ethiopian Banana, Green Abyssinian Banana)
Just as you explore the rich biodiversity of banana plants, you’ll discover the unique qualities of Ensete ventricosum, commonly known as the Ethiopian or Green Abyssinian Banana. This fascinating plant is not only valued for its agricultural significance in Ethiopia but also for its striking orname...
Banana ‘Goldfinger’ – The Disease-Resistant Banana for Reliable Harvests
Goldfinger bananas, grown locally in our Te Puke, Bay of Plenty food forest, offer an exceptional alternative to traditional varieties, especially in the face of plant diseases that threaten banana crops. This disease-resistant cultivar thrives in our region, standing strong against challenges like ...
Anthurium Coriaceum 'Paddle Leaf' – A Striking Collector’s Choice
Anthurium is not just another plant; the stunning Paddle Leaf variety stands out with its unique leaf shape that resembles a paddle, making it a coveted addition to any plant enthusiast's collection. You'll appreciate its tropical appeal and adaptability, thriving in a variety of conditions. However...
Which White Sapote variety should i choose to plant for a new zealand food forest
Many gardeners in New Zealand are discovering the benefits of growing White Sapote in their food forests, but choosing the right variety is vital for success. Some cultivars tolerate cooler temperatures better, while others produce smoother, creamier fruit with superior flavor. Since New Zealand’s c...
Banana Ensete ventricosum ‘Maurelii’ (Red Abyssinian Banana)
There's something captivating about the Banana Ensete ventricosum 'Maurelii', commonly known as the Red Abyssinian Banana. With its stunning variegated leaves and spectacular flowers, this tropical beauty adds a vibrant touch to any garden. At Troppo's food forest in Te Puke, Bay of Plenty, you can ...
Aeschynanthus Parvifolium ‘Lipstick Plant’
You may be looking for a vibrant, low-maintenance houseplant, and Aeschynanthus Parvifolium, commonly known as the Lipstick Plant, is an excellent choice. This tropical beauty features cascading vines with glossy green foliage and striking tubular red flowers that resemble a tube of lipstick. Native...
Banana ‘Musa Acuminata var. Zebrina’ – The Striking Blood Banana
Grown in Te Puke, Bay of Plenty, NZ, the Banana Musa Acuminata var. Zebrina, popularly known as the Striking Blood Banana, has captivated plant enthusiasts with its vibrant foliage and unique appearance. Its striking red and green speckled leaves add a dramatic flair to any garden or indoor space, m...
Banana ‘Nono’ – A Unique and Hardy Banana for Specialty Growers
Most banana enthusiasts and specialty growers are always on the lookout for unique and resilient varieties to diversify their crops. Grown locally in our Te Puke, Bay of Plenty food forest, the Banana ‘Nono’ stands out as an exceptional choice, offering remarkable hardiness and a distinct flavor pro...
Creating a Thriving Food Forest with Tropicals in Te Puke
In Te Puke, Bay of Plenty, we are bringing together a diverse selection of plants to create a thriving food forest, incorporating a mix of tropical and subtropical species suited to our unique climate. By carefully selecting and layering plants—ranging from hardy bananas and taro to rare exotic frui...
Colocasia esculenta ‘Pharaoh’s Mask’ – A Statement Plant for Your Garden
Few plants command attention quite like Colocasia esculenta 'Pharaoh’s Mask'. This striking elephant ear variety boasts deep green, heavily veined leaves with dark, almost black ridges that create a dramatic, sculptural effect. The veins protrude outward, making the foliage appear almost three-dimen...
Banana 'Red Tiger Sikimensis' – A Stunning Cold-Hardy Red Banana
There's an exquisite variety of banana plant that can enhance your garden while thriving in cooler climates: the Banana 'Red Tiger Sikimensis.' This cold-hardy variety not only boasts unique red and green stripe foliage, but it also produces large leaves that create a tropical ambiance in your outdo...
Banana 'Golden Lotus' – A Rare Ornamental Banana with a Stunning Bloom
Just imagine transforming your garden into a tropical paradise with the Banana 'Golden Lotus', a rare ornamental banana known for its breathtaking blooms. This unique plant not only adds a visual spectacle but also brings a touch of the exotic to your landscape. As you explore into the remarkable fe...
Banana ‘Musa Coccinea’ – The Scarlet Banana with Exotic Flowers
Many tropical fruit enthusiasts might be intrigued by the stunning Banana 'Musa Coccinea', commonly known as the Scarlet Banana. This remarkable plant not only produces edible fruit but also boasts striking red and orange flowers that can enhance any garden or landscape. As you research into the wor...
Banana ‘Rajapuri’ – The Sweet, Low-Maintenance Banana for Home Gardens
With its exceptional sweetness and easy care requirements, the Banana 'Rajapuri' is an ideal choice for your home garden. This hardy banana variety not only thrives in various climates but also produces delicious fruit that can enhance your culinary creations. You'll appreciate how simple it is to g...
Banana ‘Musa Williams’ – The Compact Banana with High-Yield Potential
Over time, you may have wished for a banana variety that combines high yield with a manageable size for your garden or indoor space. The 'Musa Williams' banana offers just that, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned gardeners and beginners alike. This compact cultivar not only produces an impr...
Banana ‘Musa Velutina’ – The Pink Velvet Banana with Edible Seeds
Edible delights await you in the form of the 'Musa Velutina', commonly known as the Pink Velvet Banana. This unique cultivar not only boasts stunning pink fruit encased in a soft, velvety skin but also surprises with its edible seeds, making it a fascinating addition to your garden or fruit collecti...
Banana 'Misi Luki' – Sweet and Hardy Banana Variety for Home Gardens
It's time to enhance your home garden with the delightful and resilient Banana 'Misi Luki' variety. Known for its exceptional sweetness and robust growth, this banana plant thrives in a variety of climates, making it an ideal choice for your backyard or patio. With its eye-catching appearance and ea...
Bird of Paradise 'Mandela’s Gold' – A Unique Yellow Bird of Paradise Hybrid
It's time to explore the stunning Bird of Paradise 'Mandela's Gold', a captivating hybrid that stands out with its unique yellow blooms and striking foliage. This exceptional plant not only brings a splash of vibrant color to your garden but also showcases a rich history and remarkable adaptations. ...
Banana ‘Siam Ruby’ – The Bright Red Ornamental Banana with Edible Fruit
Most plant enthusiasts are fascinated by the striking appearance and unique qualities of the Banana 'Siam Ruby.' This ornamental banana is not just a feast for the eyes with its vibrant red pseudostems and leaves, but it also produces delicious and edible fruit. In this blog post, you will discover ...
Bird of Paradise 'Strelitzia Juncea' – The Leafless, Elegant Bird of Paradise
There's a unique beauty in the Bird of Paradise 'Strelitzia Juncea,' known for its striking leafless appearance and elegant form. As you explore this fascinating plant, you'll discover its fascinating adaptations and striking floral spikes that can turn any garden into a tropical paradise. This info...
Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Subulata' – A Tall and Dramatic Garden Statement
Paradise awaits in your garden with the stunning Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Subulata'. This striking plant stands tall and demands attention, making it an exceptional choice for creating a bold landscape statement. Known for its vibrant foliage and unique flower structure, you can elevate your outd...
Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Subulata' – A Tall and Dramatic Garden Statement
Paradise awaits in your garden with the stunning Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Subulata'. This striking plant stands tall and demands attention, making it an exceptional choice for creating a bold landscape statement. Known for its vibrant foliage and unique flower structure, you can elevate your outd...
Blueberry – Growing High-Yield, Sweet-Tasting Blueberries in Warm Climates
With the right techniques, you can successfully grow high-yield, sweet-tasting blueberries in warm climates. This blog post will guide you through selecting the best blueberry varieties for warmer temperatures, understanding their specific growing needs, and implementing effective care practices for...
Canna ‘Edulis Queensland Arrowroot’ – A Multipurpose Perennial for Food and Ornamental Value
Perennial plants like the Canna 'Edulis Queensland Arrowroot' offer unique advantages for both your garden and kitchen. This versatile species not only enhances your landscape with its vibrant foliage and striking flowers, but it also serves as a valuable food source. You can utilize its starchy rhi...
Bird of Paradise ‘Heliconia Tortuosa Orange Twister’ – Exotic Blooms for Lush Gardens
Most garden enthusiasts seek to create a stunning oasis filled with vibrant colors and exotic plants. One such treasure that can elevate your landscape is the Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Tortuosa Orange Twister'. With its striking orange and green foliage, this unique plant not only adds visual inte...
Canna ‘Giant Var’ – Large and Showy Leaves for Bold Landscapes
There's a world of stunning foliage waiting for you with the Canna 'Giant Var'. These striking plants are not just visually impressive; they can transform your outdoor space into a vibrant oasis. Known for their large, showy leaves, Cannas offer a bold statement that can enhance any landscape. Let's...
Banana 'Snow' – A Rare and Unique Banana for Enthusiasts
Banana 'Snow' is a fascinating cultivar that stands out among its peers, offering a unique flavor and appearance that will intrigue your senses. If you're a banana enthusiast or simply curious about rare fruit varieties, this exotic species deserves your attention. With its strikingly pale skin and ...
Banana ‘Royal Hawaiian AeAe’ – The Ultimate Collector’s Striking Variegated Banana
Collector's delight, the Banana 'Royal Hawaiian AeAe' offers a stunning display with its eye-catching variegated leaves and unique growth pattern. This rare banana cultivar not only enhances your garden aesthetics but also serves as a conversation starter among fellow plant enthusiasts. Growing this...
Blackberry 'Thornless Rubus Ulmifolius' – Sweet, Juicy Berries Without the Thorns
Over the years, you may have longed for the delight of fresh blackberries without the battles against sharp thorns. The Blackberry 'Thornless Rubus Ulmifolius' offers a perfect solution, producing an abundance of sweet, juicy berries that are easy to harvest. With its thornless nature, you can enjoy...
Bird of Paradise 'Strelitzia Reginae' – The Classic and Timeless Orange Bloom
Bird of Paradise, specifically the 'Strelitzia Reginae', captivates you with its striking orange and blue blooms that resemble a tropical bird in flight. This vibrant plant not only adds a burst of color to your garden but also symbolizes exotic beauty and resilience. Whether you're a seasoned garde...
Bird of Paradise ‘Heliconia Schniediana’ – A Hardy and Showy Tropical Bloom
Bird of Paradise 'Heliconia Schniediana' is a stunning addition to any tropical garden, captivating your senses with its vibrant colors and unique shape. This hardy plant not only thrives in warm climates but also attracts pollinators like hummingbirds, making it a valuable asset for biodiversity in...
Bird of Paradise ‘Heliconia Tortuosa Yellow Twister’ – A Rare Golden Heliconia for Collectors
Just when you think you've seen it all in the world of exotic plants, the 'Heliconia Tortuosa Yellow Twister' emerges as a rare gem for your collection. This vibrant golden variety not only showcases stunning visual appeal but also offers you a unique opportunity to enhance your garden or indoor pla...
Bird of Paradise ‘Spoonbill’ – A Rare and Elegant Bird of Paradise Species
Over the years, you may have stumbled upon fascinating tales of the avian world, but few compare to the enchanting allure of the Bird of Paradise 'Spoonbill.' This extraordinary species captivates bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike with its unique features and graceful demeanor. As you dive...
Bird of Paradise ‘Nicolai Giant White’ – A Grand Statement Plant for Tropical Gardens
It's time to elevate your tropical garden with the stunning Bird of Paradise 'Nicolai Giant White.' This magnificent plant is renowned for its striking foliage and impressive stature, making it a focal point in any lush landscape. You will love how its elegant white flowers and dramatic leaves can t...
Canna Lily ‘Tropicanna Black’ – Dramatic Dark Foliage with Striking Blooms
There's a stunning addition waiting to elevate your garden space: Canna Lily 'Tropicanna Black'. Featuring dramatic dark foliage that creates a bold backdrop, this plant also boasts striking blooms that will catch the eye of any passerby. With its unique coloration and vibrant flowers, you can enhan...
Cactus 'Echinopsis Chamaecereus' (Peanut Cactus) – The Low-Maintenance Flowering Wonder
You'll discover that the Cactus 'Echinopsis Chamaecereus', commonly known as Peanut Cactus, is an exceptional choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. This fascinating succulent not only captivates with its unique appearance and vibrant blooms but also thrives with minimal care. Nat...
Canna ‘Tropicanna Gold’ – Bright and Lush Tropical Foliage for Stunning Displays
It's time to elevate your garden with the vibrant beauty of Canna 'Tropicanna Gold'. This stunning plant offers bright, lush tropical foliage that creates eye-catching displays in any landscape. You'll love how its bold colors and dramatic leaves can transform your outdoor spaces into a paradise of ...
Basil – The Aromatic Culinary Herb Essential for Any Garden
Many gardeners consider basil to be a must-have in their herb garden due to its vibrant flavor and versatility in the kitchen. This fragrant herb not only enhances your favorite dishes but also thrives in various climates, making it an accessible addition to your gardening efforts. By cultivating ba...
Acacia – The Versatile and Resilient Tree for Every Tropical Garden
Just imagine transforming your tropical garden with the addition of an acacia tree; it offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. With their fast growth, drought resistance, and ability to improve soil health through nitrogen fixation, acacia trees are a fantastic choice for your landscape...
