Among the tropical fruits of Latin America and the Caribbean, Mamoncillo (Melicoccus bijugatus) holds a cherished place for its unique, refreshing taste and cultural popularity. Known by many names — Spanish lime, genip, guinep, quenepa, limoncillo, and skinip — this small green fruit, often confused for a lime, is prized for its juicy, sweet-tart, and … Read more
Among the growing roster of exotic superfruits sought after for their rich nutritional profiles and unique flavors, Lucuma stands out for its long cultural history and modern-day culinary appeal. Known as the ‘Gold of the Incas,’ this subtropical fruit is celebrated for its creamy texture, naturally sweet taste, and impressive health benefits. From gourmet ice … Read more
Succulents have taken the plant world by storm with their striking shapes, easy-care reputation, and ability to thrive in dry, low-maintenance environments. From tiny rosettes to tall, sculptural forms, these hardy plants are loved by beginner and experienced gardeners alike. While succulents are often praised for their drought tolerance, that doesn’t mean they can go … Read more
Cacti are some of the most iconic, low-maintenance, and visually captivating plants in the gardening world. Known for their ability to thrive in arid deserts and survive prolonged droughts, cacti are the ultimate survivors of the plant kingdom. Yet, despite their reputation for being drought-tolerant, watering a cactus isn’t as simple as forgetting about it … Read more
Known for its vibrant, multicolored foliage and ease of care, coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides) is one of the most popular ornamental plants grown in home gardens, patios, and indoor spaces. With leaves that boast bold combinations of green, red, pink, purple, yellow, and orange, coleus can be the perfect accent in containers, flower beds, or hanging … Read more
Hibiscus plants are tropical beauties, famous for their bold, colorful, and trumpet-shaped flowers. Whether grown as a showy garden shrub, patio container plant, or even indoors in colder climates, hibiscus adds a lively, exotic touch to any setting. These plants are loved for their extended blooming period and their ability to attract pollinators like butterflies … Read more
Gardenias are among the most elegant and alluring flowering plants, famous for their glossy evergreen leaves and intoxicatingly fragrant white or creamy blooms. Native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, gardenias have long been cherished in ornamental gardens, indoor spaces, and patios worldwide. While undeniably beautiful, gardenias can be … Read more
The tropical regions of Southeast Asia are home to a wealth of unique and culturally significant fruit species, one of which is Rambai (Baccaurea motleyana). Rambai is a lesser-known but cherished fruit in local cuisines and traditional medicine, especially in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Although it hasn’t reached the commercial popularity of tropical … Read more
Kaffir lime (Citrus hystrix), known in many parts of the world as makrut lime, is a distinct citrus variety cherished for its aromatic leaves, zesty rind, and therapeutic properties. Essential in Southeast Asian cuisines and herbal medicine, the plant thrives in warm, humid climates. While several countries cultivate kaffir lime, Thailand stands as the undisputed … Read more
Among the world’s diverse tropical fruits, Hog Plum (Spondias mombin) stands out for its sharp tangy flavor, rich nutrient profile, and deep-rooted presence in both culinary and medicinal traditions. Known by various regional names such as Yellow Mombin, Amra, Spanish Plum, or Golden Apple, this resilient tropical fruit thrives in warm, humid environments across the … Read more