Overview Ensete ventricosum ‘Hiniba’ is a rare and striking cultivar of the Abyssinian banana. It is distinguished by its deep blue-green, waxy leaves and rapid growth, making it a dramatic feature plant. Unlike true bananas ...
Local Gardener Latest Articles

Growing Butia odorata in the UK
Butia odorata (formerly misidentified as Butia capitata) is one of the hardiest feather palms suitable for UK gardens, particularly in milder regions. Its graceful, arching fronds and edible fruit make it a striking feature in ...

“The Power of Flowers in a Tropical Garden”
Podcast Episode: “Welcome to Local Gardener, where we explore the art, science, and beauty of gardening. Today, we’re looking at using flowers to enhance the exotic charm of a tropical garden. Whether you’re designing a ...

The Clever Mechanics of the Venus Flytrap: A Plant That Can Count
The Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula) is one of the most fascinating plants in the natural world. Found natively in the nutrient-poor soils of the Carolinas in the United States, this carnivorous plant has evolved a ...

Trochodendron aralioides: A Comprehensive Grow Guide
Trochodendron aralioides, also known as the Wheel Tree or Aralia-leaved Trochodendron, is a unique evergreen tree native to East Asia, specifically Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea. It’s a monotypic genus, meaning it’s the only species ...

Growing Boehmeria sieboldiana in a UK Tropical-Style Garden
Boehmeria sieboldiana, also known as Japanese false nettle or Siebold’s False Nettle , is a hardy perennial from the Urticaceae family that brings lush, exotic foliage to tropical-style gardens. Its large, textured leaves and bushy ...

Five Yellow Flowers for a Tropical-Style Garden: Exotic Blooms with Unique Appeal
Creating a tropical-style garden can be a rewarding endeavor, especially if you choose flowers that not only add vibrant colors but also bring unique textures and interesting stories to your garden. Here are five excellent ...