Ariocarpus retusus var. furfuraceus

This species is seen as highly variable and this has led to many names. "furfuraceus" is no longer accepted as a variety by most, but these are grown from seed of plants thus identified.

Today has been an unfortunately eventful day. Our main means of transportation is a 1994 Ford Aerostar van. The van's alternator appears to have failed and so it goes to the car repair shop in the morning. At the same time, we have some plants being inspected for shipment to China. And so we'll be delivering plants to the post office in our trusty old, but in need of some work, orange 1964 VW bug. And, we have company arriving on Tuesday.  Help!!!!  :)

Mammillaria gracilis var. fragilis

There are those plants that are so easy to reproduce that become viewed as "common" and therefore are ignored. This is one of those plants. Each new "thimble" can easily break loose and root, thus forming a fast growing mound of cacti. But just because it's easy to grow doesn't mean it should be ignored. Even the experienced cactus grower can enjoy the challenge of creating a showy mound of these plants, presenting it in an appropriate pot and making an impression on even the most jaded cactophile!

Rauhia peruviana

A bit of an oddball for a houseplant, but if you tend toward the strange, this is one of those. Noted for the single set of two large, semi succulent leaves. The bulb is generally raised up for additional interest. And, as a plus, it's very easy to grow.

 

Gasteria 'Fuji Yuki'

This is a wonderfully easy plant to grow, doing just as well on a windowsill as in a greenhouse (or, outdoors, where that's possible). According to internet sources, this is a cultivar of Gasteria obtusa and the Japanese name means "Snow of Mount Fuji".

There are many variegated Gasterias, but this one is quite distinctive.

In the yard

Just a miscellaneous shot of some plants in the back yard. Nothing special. I'll try to get some new photos tomorrow.

Copiapoa haseltoniana

We've been growing cacti for over 40 years now and my interest in the Copiapoa genus has grown with the years. Copiapoa haseltoniana is a good example of why. The yellow to gold spines with a amber-yellow crown of wool and flowers from a young age are all elements which recommend it. It also clumps with age, making a great exhibition plant. Keep the plants warm and dry in the winter, avoiding any frost, and giving it plenty of light. Provide a potting mix with very good drainage and it will reward you with years of enjoyment.

Late Summer Raspberries

A little break tonight with a photo of some late season raspberries which are coming on strong right now. I have a lot of them to pick tomorrow, plus our farrier will be out to trim Ladybug's hooves and I have to work with some orders we have received. It's going to get warm in the next couple of days - probably our last gasp before Fall. However, September is often our best month.

Avonia quinaria var. alstonii

These wonderful small succulents are impressive, even at a young age, but as they get older, they produce a caudex which makes the plants even more impressive. For small plants, they surely can steal the show. Check out these additional photos from our nursery list.

Enjoy your plants!