The calendar has turned over yet again, so HAPPY NEW YEAR to everyone!  Hopefully the cold front that passed through will head on out and more normal temperatures will return.  We shouldn’t complain too much though, as we are fortunate to still have plants flowering throughout the winter months, which is more than most of the country can say.

Looking out in the nursery, the Shower of Orchids Vine (Congea tomentosa) is beginning to bloom with its hundreds of tiny lavender grey orchid like flowers appearing above the foliage.  It gives the plant a somewhat smoky appearance.  Another vine currently blooming is a Tropical Clematis (Clematis smilacifolia).  It has a very pretty white flower and dark purple sepals.

Two Heliconias (Heliconia angusta) of seasonal interest are in bloom, a red and white variety along with a yellow flowered variety of the same species.  The red and white Heliconia is called Christmas Heliconia due to the time of year it blooms.

We are also growing Calabaza Winter Squash (Cucurbita moschata).  They are about 18” long and can way up to 4lbs each.  They can be baked, steamed, or micro waved, with a little salt and pepper, and they are quite good.