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Oxalis
The name Oxalis comes from the Greek word for acid – oxis – and refers to the acidity of the plant’s leaves. It’s also commonly known as shamrock or wood sorrel. Originally valued by gardeners as ornamental plants due to their bright flowers, some species have grown out of control and are now considered weeds.…
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Pachira aquatica
Pachira aquatica is sometimes referred to as the Money Tree because it is believed to deliver good luck and fortune to the home in which it is nurtured. Description Miniature Pachira aquatica plants, which are used as bonsai trees, have a distinctive long, thin trunk that is made up of intertwined stems that are plaited…
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Pachypodium
The Pachypodium (which is pronounced as pa-KEE-po-dium) means ‘with thick stem’ in Greek. This alludes to the stout trunk of the plant which is used to store water and as such, its varieties often receive common names such as ‘bottle tree’. Description Pachypodium are identified easily by their short, thick and prickly trunks and elongated…
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Palm
There are a wide range of palms which are sold commercially under an array of names, such as the Lady Palm (Raphis), Data Palm (Phoenix) and the Kentia Palm (Howea). These plants come from tropical regions and thrive in atmospheres of intense humidity, making them popular choices for conservatories. Description Most palms are easily identified…
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Peperomia
Peperomia is known by a variety of different names, including American rubber plant, baby rubber plant, pepper face and radiator plant. The majority of species are perennial epiphytes that grow on rotten wood. Description These plants vary in appearance, but most species will have fleshy leaves and stout, thick stems. The flowers are a yellow-brown…
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Philodendron erubescens
Philodendron erubescens, sometimes referred to as Blushing Philodendron, is an evergreen plant. Its name is derived from the Green ‘phileo’, which translates as ‘love’, and ‘dendron’ which means ‘tree’. Erubescens means ‘that which turns red or blushes’ and this describes the colour of the plant’s bloom. Description This plant features glossy, dark green leaves which…
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Phoenix canariensis
Phoenix canariensis is a large palm plant which produces orange and yellow fruit. A relative of the well-known date palm, this plant can reach heights of between 10 and 20 metres. Although not the most hardy of plants, it can be grown outdoors in mild, temperate locations. Description Phoenix canariensis is often referred to as…
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Pleomele reflexa
The pleomele reflexa is a robust plant with a tropical appearance and has become a popular choice of plant for both the home and the office. Description This plant is self-branching, with a loosely tufted and upright look to its foliage. It is favoured for its irregular, thick stems as well as its evergreen leaves.…
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Poinsettia
The poinsettia, also known as euphorbia pulcherrima, is a small plant which is often referred to as a Christmas plant due to its bright red bracts. Description This stout shrub is characterised by its dark green leaves and red, white, pink, orange or red bracts. It generally grows to a height of 2 to 16ft.…
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Polyscia
Polyscia’s name is of Greek origin and means much (poly) shade (scias), which is most likely a reference to the fact that other trees will tower over it and block out sunlight. Description The plant grows at a relatively slow rate and features dark green, glossy leaves which are usually about 10 centimetres in length.…
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