TopTropicals Plant Catalog

This catalog is for information only. If you don't see the price - the plant is not for sale.

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Adiantum is a genus of about 200 species of ferns in the family Pteridaceae, though some researchers place it in its own family, Adiantaceae.

Adiantum has slender black stems and delicate, triangular green fronds.

The plant likes higher humidity but should not be misted.

Species:

Adiantum peruvianum

Adiantum raddianum

Aeschynanthus is a large genus of Old World tropical herbs. In many respects, they are analogous to the genus Columnea in Central and South America -- both are most often trailing epiphytes with fairly large and showy flowers that are frequently pollinated by birds. The appearance of the various Aeschynanthus species varies widely. The original 'Lipstick Plant' has hard-surfaced shiny leaves, with bright red flowers that emerge from a very dark red tubular calyx, in a fashion reminiscent of lipstick emerging from a tube. It is an epiphyte that grows in the angles of branches in the rain forest. As with all epiphytes, the lipstick plant does not live as a parasite on the tree, but takes its nourishment from fallen leaves and twigs that accumulate in the crevices of branches. Needs plenty of light, but not direct sunlight. They thrive in summer heat, and winter temperatures should not drop below 60 degrees.

A very attractive flowering vine, that is mostly used in hanging pots. Water freely durning spring to fall, but keep the soil a little drier in the winter. The trailing stems can be 2ft long, so they may need pruning after flowering has finished. The plant tolerates most house temperatures. Ideal temperatures are 60 degrees at night but 10 to 15 degrees higher during the day. A. pulcher is one of the classic lipstick plants, and is similar to A. lobbianus -- except for the tan colored calyx.

Once known as Vriesea imperialis, this plant is usually considered the signature species of the genus Alcantarea. A giant among bromeliads, it can grow to be more than 5 feet tall! It makes a wonderful focal point in any tropical landscape.

Beautifully camouflage like pattern of dark, light greens and yellows cover each leaf attached to an interesting bluish-black stalk. Commonly known as Elephant's Ear, this unique tropical-looking plant grows 2-3ft tall with a similar spread. Prefers aerated soil containing bark, coarse perlite and peat moss. Fast once established, which takes approximately 4-6 weeks. Grown for its beautifully irregularly marked leaves. This particular variety is a good semi-aquatic plant for the edge of a pond or even in a large terrarium setting. Alocasias are heavy feeders, provide water soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks and water regularly. Lift tubers and over winter in a frost free environment. Replant after last frost in spring.