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Rose: Timeless allure, captivating legacy

Camellia — Symbol of elegance, tradition and resilience

Camellias, symbolizing love and longevity, are prized ornamental plants native to East Asia. Cultivated for centuries, they are admired for their elegant beauty and diverse blooms. Beyond ornamental value, Camellia sinensis is the source of tea, cultivated in places like Cameron Highlands and Sarawak. Ranging from large, showy blooms to smaller fragrant varieties, camellias can grow up to 20 feet tall, though tea varieties are kept shorter. The article highlights the plant's cultural significance, particularly in China, and its history, including its introduction to Europe.

Honouring our national flower on this blessed day

The hibiscus, Malaysia's national flower, is celebrated for its beauty and versatility. Originating in Asia and the Pacific islands, it's now cultivated globally in tropical and sub-tropical regions. Used in gardens, landscapes, teas, and herbal remedies, it holds cultural significance in many countries. The plant comes in various colors and varieties, including Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Hibiscus syriacus, Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle), and Hibiscus mutabilis (Confederate Rose). It's relatively easy to grow in warm, sunny climates.

Understanding uniqueness of elephant’s foot plant

The author introduces an elephant's foot plant in their Siburan orchard, gifted by a friend. The plant, named for its thick, bulbous base resembling an elephant's foot, stores water and nutrients. Several varieties exist, including the 'Beaucarnea recurvata' (ponytail palm), 'Dioscorea elephantipes' (South African yam), and 'Amorphophallus paeoniifolius' (Indonesian yam). The article details propagation methods (off-shoots and seeds) and maintenance tips, emphasizing bright light, minimal watering, well-draining soil, and balanced fertilizer.

Another tropical beauty from ginger plant’s family

The curcuma, a genus in the Zingiberaceae family, is prized for its beautiful blooms and foliage. A variety with purplish-blue orchid-like flowers was found in Kuching. Similar varieties include the 'Siam tulip' native to Southeast Asia. The turmeric plant (Curcuma longa), also from this genus, is known for its medicinal properties. Cultivation tips include providing bright, indirect sunlight, well-draining soil, and planting rhizomes about two inches deep.

Desert rose: Nature’s sculptured beauty

The desert rose, native to Africa and the Middle East, is a popular flowering plant admired for its vibrant blossoms and thick trunk. It thrives in harsh environments and stores water in its caudex, making it drought-resistant. The author's aunt in Brunei cultivates a variety of desert roses, showcasing diverse colors and shapes. While some prefer the plant's unique trunk structure, others appreciate its colorful trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom multiple times a year in ideal conditions. The plant requires well-draining soil and sunny climates.

Anthurium species for decorations, indoor displays

This article discusses Anthurium plants, focusing on their suitability for home gardening. It describes the Araceae family, to which Anthuriums belong, noting their large, glossy leaves and inconspicuous flowers. The article highlights the popular Anthurium andraeanum (flamingo flower), Anthurium scherzerianum (pigtail plant), and Anthurium clarinervium, known for its velvety leaves. It emphasizes the general care requirements for Anthuriums, including indirect light, consistent moisture, and a warm, humid environment.