Hard Frost

Northern California has experienced a bit of a shock over the last few days. The temperature yesterday morning was 27 degrees Fahrenheit! That's the coldest I have ever seen it get here in the Bay Area. However, my tropical plants are failry fine; the banana plant has some shriveling leaves and so does the colocasia, but everything else is okay, including the "non-tolerant of frost" king palm.

At least the next few days are the shortest of the year: after that, the sun stays out longer and signs of spring start to emerge...

Plumeria obtusa

A Singapore plumeria, (Plumeria obtusa), at a nursery in Southern California.

End of the Season

My tropical garden winding down a few weeks ago after the addition of a small bamboo.

Teeth

The leaves of honey bush look dangerous to touch, but aren't.

Southern California Skies

A Kentia palm invokes thoughts of the tropics.

Tropical Hibiscus

A hibiscus from Southern California to ward off the winter blues.

Hong Kong Orchid Tree

This specimen isn't in Hong Kong though, but rather the Quail Botanical Gardens in San Diego.

Veins

A fallen leaf backlit by the Sun.

Sweet Gum Leaves

Bright red leaves of a sweet gum tree on December 2, 2006.

Starting to Grow

Last week, I bought an amaryllis bulb, and it is starting to grow quickly.