Smooth Green

A new leaf on my 'Dwarf Namwah' banana plant.

Downright Tropical!

California is in the grip of an unusual heat wave. Today, the temperature got up to 83 degrees Fahrenheit! The garden is really starting to wake up and is taking advantage of the warm weather. My banana plants are starting to grow quickly, and I have rebuilt the tropical fountain set-up.

Spring is Around the Corner...

Its amazing how short (or long) the winters can be in Northern California. Its mid February, and many trees are blooming, including at least two different types of magnolia. Not only are trees blooming, but some are leafing out. The California buckeye trees, (photo on right), had their buds swell about two weeks ago, and now new leaves are emerging fast. My banana plant has woken up because of our recent warm weather and is now starting to grow. My California pipevines are showing signs of growth, and so is my pygmy date palm.

It looks like spring is early in 2007...I hope.

Banana Bonanza

The "banana boulevard" section of the Quail Botanical Gardens.

San Diego Jungle

The lush understory of Palm Canyon, complete with elephant ears and banana plants.

Banana Background

An Abyssinian banana (Ensete ventricosum) leaf.