Gardening and Rare Plants Expo

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New, Rare and Unusual plant list

Information detailed on this page relates to the 2008 Gardening and Rare Plants Expo. Information for the 2009 Gardening and Rare Plants Expo to be added in the future.

This Gardening and Rare plants Expo is a unique opportunity for gardeners of all ages and abilities to enjoy a whole weekend discovering new, rare and unusual plants for their garden. Some of the highlights (from the Specialist growers) to see during the weekend include:

• Belgium Red Clivia - a RARE variety with bright orange almost red flowers. John's Clivia.
• Chinese Clivia - RARE in Australia these are dwarf plants with lovely broad foliage. Clivia is highly valued in China and in Japan, as such they do a lot of innovative breeding. Clivia growing is a hobby for life. John's Cliva.
• Acer palmatium dissectum seiryu The only upright Dissectum (cutleaf) Japanese Maple. Hardy, vigorous and dainty light green foliage turning brilliant Autumn tones of red and orange. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Dahlia spp. - a variety of new rare and unusual species of this classically beautiful plant.
• Succulents - a huge variety of this prolific plant. Boulters Nursery.
• Hedychium coronarium or Butterfly Ginger - Large growing ginger with pale green leaves .White highly scented flowers. Also a range of Ginger Lilies. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Nepenthes spp., Pitcher Plant or Condom Plant - these unusual carnivorous species are very UNUSUAL. Mt Beenak Orchids
• Dendrobium spp. or Native Orchids - a range of epiphytic and terrestrial orchids. Fabulous showy flowers a wide range of NEW, RARE and UNUSUAL species. B&T Orchids and Ferns & Mt Beenak Orchids.
• Phaelaenopsis spp. a varied selection of NEW, RARE and UNSUSUAL species. Evergreen, epiphytic and monopodial orchids available. Mt Beenak Orchids, B&T Ferns and Orchids.
• Cymbidium spp. - epiphytic, lithophtic and terrestrial orchids with a massive variety of fabulous flowers. NEW, RARE and UNSUSUAL species. B&T Ferns and Orchids and Mt Beenak Orchids.
• Cacti and Succulents – huge range of varieties. Including miniature cacti and succulents and cute potting ideas to go with them.
• NEW Release Roses - Mackybe Diva, Afternoon Delight, Make a Wish, Bold Seduction. Treloar Roses.
• Galanthus spp. or Snowdrop (daffodil) a very RARE and hard to find bulb which is famed for its delicate flowers. Tesselaar.
• Haemanthus spp. or Powder Brush - a South African species which is famed for its very RARE and UNUSUAL flowers. Peonies Australia.
• Nymphaea spp. or Water Lily - a selection of NEW, RARE and UNUSUAL species which are hardy to the Australian environment. Oz WaterGardens.
• Nymphaea 'Tina' - A stunning and prolific tropical Water Lily. The petals are a delicate royal purple-blue with a rich yellow-gold centre. Just magic in the water. Oz WaterGardens.
• Muscari spp. or Grape Hyacinth - both the common blue variety as well as the RARE alba or white variety. Tesselaar.
• Sarcococca confuse - RARE evergreen shrub to 1.5 metres . Dark green glossy foliage. Small white , highly scented flowers followed by numerous black shiny fruits. Excellent for dry shade. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Pachysandra terminalis and Pachysandra terminalis variegata - Superb evergreen ground cover for underplanting trees and shrubs. Forms a suckering mat 10-15 c.m.high.White brush-like flowers in early spring. The variegata has leaves variegated creamy-white. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Mahonia spp.- a selection of this RARE bushy evergreen shrub with fabulous fragrant pendulous flowers. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Daphne spp.- a range of RARE and UNUSUAL fragrant Daphne, though they may be slow to grow they are an asset to the garden. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Fagus spp. or Green Purple and Gold Beech - difficult to find these species create fabulous garden structure. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Cercis canadensis or Forest Pansy - very RARE species which is hard to strike, and extremely sort after. Small deciduous tree with stunning purple heart-shaped foliage. Showy pink-mauve flowers on bare stems in spring. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Dichroa versicolor or Evergreen Hydrangea - large leaved evergreen shrub related to, and similar in appearance to Hydrangea macrophylla. Large blue or pink flower heads (depends on pH) made up of numerous small star shaped flowers. Dark purple fruits. Great new evergreen for shade to half sun. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Liriodendrom spp. or Tulip Tree - difficult to find in nurseries and extremely rewarding to grow. See a full scale version of this magnificent tree's thriving in Tesselaar Gardens. Yamina Rare Plants.
• Tulipa spp. - NEW Releases - Atilla Graffiti, Hermitage, Gerrit Van der Valk, Cynarda Blue, Holland Beauty and Zorro. Tesselaar Bulbs.
• Iris spp. - NEW Release - Paris. Tesselaar Bulbs.
• Hyacinth spp. - NEW Release - Hollyhock, a double hyacinth in a strong purple colour. RARE. Tesselaar Bulbs.
• Rhoeo spp. or Moses in the cradle - Dwarf, Variegated and Standard - ideal for dry gardens, pots and edging. Mt Olinda Wholesale.
• Lavender spp. - NEW, RARE and UNUSUAL species cultivated for their magnificent scent and practical garden application.. Warratina Lavender Farm.
• Lirriope spp.- UNUSUAL in the garden and very easy to grow. Mt Olinda Wholesale.
• Masdevallia spp. - Cool growing orchids which thrive in Victorian conditions. Seedlings have been hybridised and grown at Mt Beenak Orchids who are renown for their RARE and UNUSUAL species with NEW hybrids each year.
• Oriental Purple Garlic, an UNUSUAL and attractive large, pungent and tasty bulb.
• Allium ampeloprasum porrum - Giant Russian or Elephant Garlic, huge mild cloves, an UNUSUAL and attractive ornamental plant. New Gippsland Seeds and Bulbs.
• Princess Lillies or Dwarf Alstoemeria Perfect for pots and borders. A great range of RARE colours available. New Gippsland Seeds and Bulbs
• Pepino Golden Splendour, Attractive oval fruit with sweet flesh with a slight melon flavour. Fruit up to 12 cm long. Skin gold with alight purple striping. New Gippsland Seeds and Bulbs
• Anemone nemerosa, Anemone 'Blue Bonnet' Delightful single pale blue flowers in spring and early summer. Perennial. Naturalises readily in the shade of deciduous trees in moist leafy soil. Easily grown. New Gippsland Seeds and Bulbs. New Gippsland Seeds and Bulbs
• Fritillaria, a very rare flower which loves cool moist areas where its unusual chequered mauve-purple flowers, each around 4 cm long, appear on 30 cm stems in Spring. New Gippsland Seeds and Bulbs.
• Clematis florida Sieboldii a NEW and very beautiful flower with pure white petals which age to green and a passionfruit purple dark stamen. A very beautiful plant. Alameda Homestead.
• Clematis florida Plena a NEW and UNUSUAL species with fully double green-cream petals which age to a white-green. Very fresh and pretty in the garden.
• Post Office Farm Picotee Hellebore - Seed from the best picotee forms. Usually a white background with the sepals delicately veined and rimmed with pink or red. Some will also have a central flush of colour on the inside of the flower and dark red nectaries. These are superb plants and still quite RARE. Post Office Farm.
• Helleborus orientalis subsp. Abschasicus - This is the rare pink to red flowered sub-species of true H. orientalis. Stock plants are grown from wild collected seed from Georgia. Post Office Farm
• Hellebore Double Pinnk - hand pollinated seedlings from selected double forms. The flower colours of the parent plants range from pale to medium pink. Most of these are derived from the iconic Australian double 'Mrs Betty Ranicar'. These are good vigorous plants. Post Office Farm
• Wollemia Nobilis, Wollemi Pine - An amazing tree, dating back to the dinosaur era. Discovered in a deep ravine in the NSW Blue Mountains in 1994. The foliage is dark green, with large elongated leaves, similar to the Cephalotaxus and many of the Podocarpus. Develops a chocolate, bubbly trunk. Will grow in sun or shade. Normally a tall tree but can be pruned as a shrub. Can be used as a patio plant. Conifer Gardens.
• Picea polita or Tiger-Tail Spruce - the short, chunky needles are a fresh green colour. The branches are horizontal when young. On mature plants the branchlets are like long "tiger tails". Conspicuous reddish buds in winter. A RARE spruce from Japan. Conifer Gardens.
• Tomato San Marzano - an excellent, large plum tomato said to have originated as a gift from the Kingdom of Peru to the Kingdom of Naples in 1770 and takes its name from a small commune of the same name. It is widely grown in the volcanic soils near Naples for use in sauces (passata) and canning. The Italian Gardener.
• Cavolo Nero - is the name given to an attractive, dark green kale popular in Tuscany where it is used widely in the local minestrone ribollita, but is also excellent added to salads when young. Best matured in winter where its sweet nutty flavour is enhanced after a frost, but can be used young at most times. The Italian Gardener.
• Radicchio rossa di Treviso - one of hundreds of green and red chicories that range from small, tender cutting varieties to lettuce-like heading types Originally from Treviso near Venice, this striking plant is used in risottos, salads and simply grilled or pan fried with a little olive oil. Must be matured in cooler weather and can tolerate frost. The Italian Gardener.
• Cima di Rapa - a member of the turnip family developed to produce a broccoli-like efflorescence which is eaten along with the tender leaves. A favourite in the South of Italy it has an assertive, peppery taste, and is commonly blanched in boiling water, then braised briefly in a little olive oil, garlic and chilli and used with pasta or as a side vegetable. The Italian Gardener.
• Salvia gregii 'Lara' - There are more than 900 species of Salvia. Salvia greggii is a popular, evergreen shrub growing in the rocky soils of Texas and Mexico. It is normally a red flowered variety but there are numerous other colors from cream to
  purple. 'Lara' is a NEW selection from Salvia collector Sue Templeton and is named
  after her granddaughter. Di's Delightful Plants.
• Salvia x jamensis 'Los Lirios' - (pronounced hamensis) is naturally occurring hybrid between Salvia microphylla and Salvia greggi that was discovered by James Compton, Martyn Rix and John d'Arcy near the Mexican town of Jame. They collected seed from thirty different forms and eventually released seven named cultivars. It is an hardy shrub, tolerant of moderate frosts, full sun and dry periods. Di's Delightful Plants.
• Salvia 'Silke's Dream' - Salvia microphylla (syn: Salvia grahami) is from Mexico and Arizona with masses of delicate pink flowers from spring through to early winter. Salvia 'Silke's Dream' was discovered by Art Petly of Texas. It has the general appearance of Salvia microphylla but with deep orange red flowers that are held well above the foliage. It makes a stunning display in late autumn and is an easy to grow plant reaching about 90 cm in height. Di's Delightful Plants.
• Zygopetalum Alliance Hybrids - Exotic scents and amazing colours these orchids are simply fabulous. 'Zygo's' grow in conditions similar to Cymbidiums. They have well shaped blooms and produce a number of flower spikes. Mt Beenak Orchids.
• Sarcochilus Hybrids - Mt Beenak Orchids have a RARE and UNUSUAL range of these natives which they have bred themselves. Clive and Agi Halls are devoted to their orchids and these hybrids are a testament to this devotion. A very special range. Mt Beenak Orchids.
• Promenaea xanthina x (Crawshyana x stapelioides) - Summer flowering miniature orchids that are very special in the garden. These beauties flower when all the other orchids are finished. They are cool growing and RARE. Mt Beenak Orchids.
• Bonsai - From starter kits for the novice right up to well developed and aged specimens. A great range of species available. The Imagination Tree.
• Lavandula spp. - Lavender species include English Lavender, Lavandula angustifolia 'Munstead', 'Hidcote', 'Hidcote Pink', Lavandula stoechas 'Merte', 'Wine' and 'Pippa White'. Warratina Lavender Farm.
• Dierama pulcherrimum or Fairies Fishing Rod/Wand, Harebells or Wand Flowers - Hybrid varieties available. Of all the plants in a summer garden Dierama pulcherrimum really stands out. The character of this plant really shines through during the flowering season but the foliage forms an attractive garden feature throughout the year. Peonies Australia
• Dicentra spectabilis or Bleeding Heart - A graceful garden favourite. A range of colours available. Peonies Australia
• Gloriosa superba or Glory Lily - A fabulous plant which is often difficult to find. RARE. Peonies Australia.
• Cussonia paniculata or Mountain Cabbage Tree - An evergreen famed for its UNUSUAL shape, this species is fabulous in the garden, or in bonsai form. Peonies Australia
• Lilium nepalense or Nepal Lily - a very hard to find UNUSUAL species of lilium. Flowers are lime green bells with a deep maroon centre. Unusual smell. Peonies Australia.
• Gentiana bellidifolia - Native to New Zealand this perennial bulb is RARE and hard to find. Both White and Blue varieties available. Peonies Australia.
• Citrus spp. - Assorted citrus species available. Peonies Australia
• Luculia grandiflora - Endemic to the Himalayas where it grows in forests, it has proven difficult for the average gardener. Because of this reason it is quite RARE, but don't despair there are tricks which will encourage it to flourish. The flowers have a delicious vanilla scent which makes them very worthwhile. Peonies Australia.
• Bomarea caldasii or Climbing Alstroemeria - RARE species of climber which produces fabulous orange to red pendulous blooms. Peonies Australia.
• Trillium ludlowiscianum or Wake Robin - A delicate RARE species. Peonies Australia.
• Agapetes serpens - Fabulous evergreen with scarlet red pendulous flowers. RARE. Peonies Australia.
• Limonium peregrinum or Sea Lavender or Marsh Rosemary - Endemic to South Africa. RARE. Beautiful blue flowers. Peonies Australia.
• Alpinia mutica or Small Shell Ginger or Orchid Ginger & Alpinia zerumbet (variegated)- Stunning white to pink flowers congregate on fabulous foliage. Peonies Australia.
• Alpinia caerulea or Native Ginger - UNUSUAL plant that appreciates boggy ground. Wonderful green foliage and blue fruits. Peonies Australia.
• Costus barbatus or Spiral Ginger - UNUSUAL stunning red and yellow flowers. Peonies Australia.
• Elettaria cardamomum or Cardamon - UNUSUAL ginger plant. Peonies Australia.
• Brugmansia spp. or Angels Trumpet - A variety of colours for these wonderful tropical style flowers. Peonies Australia.
• Arisaema erubescens, A. tortuosum, A. triphyllum or Jack in the Pulpit or Cobra Lily - UNUSUAL variety of this easy to grow garden great. Peonies Australia.
• Eupatorium bartleianum - Herbaceous perennial with beautiful flowers and is easy to grow. Peonies Australia.
• Sandersonia aurantiaca or Chinese Lanterns or Christmas Bells - Cute and vibrant flowers are abundant on this UNUSUAL climbing plant. Ideal companion planted with the Glory Lily as they are both climbers. Peonies Australia.
• Epimedium x hybrida – Also known as Dog’s Tooth Violets, Fairies Wings, Horny Goatweed, Bishop’s Hat or Barrenwort. These delicate herbaceous beauties are garden hardy and an ideal ground cover. Craig has an excellent selection with over 40 varieties. Gentiana Nursery.
• Stipa gigantea – or Giant Feather Grass. Becoming increasingly popular in old fashioned mixed borders and modern gardens alike. A truly hardy plant which adds something special to your garden. Gentiana Nursery.
• Austrostipa stipoides – A perennial grass native to southern NSW. This tufted grass will survive harsh conditions with ease and look good while doing it. An excellent ornamental grass. Gentiana Nursery.
• Euphorbia x hybrida – A terrific selection of hard to find Euphorbia. These plants are ideal in dry gardens and their bracts remain showy for weeks. Gentiana Nursery.
• Potted Colour including Zinnia, Portulaca, Petunia, Pansy, Dianthus and Vinca.
• Callistimon x hybrida – our native Bottlebrush, a hardy garden plant. Wokkatarnee.
• Nandinas – Japanese Sacred Bamboo, or Heavenly Bamboo. Wokkatarnee.
• Callibrachoa – ideal for hanging baskets. Wokkatarnee.
• Diascia – with a reputation for its free flowering and easy care this is a practical plant for the garden. Wokkatarnee
• Cussonia paniculata – or Mountain Cabbage Tree, an evergreen focal point for the garden. Devon Tubestock
• Clianthus puniceus – Lobster Claw, Parrots Beak. Endemic to New Zealand this is a hardy species with unusual flowers. Devon Tubestock
• Scilla x hybrida – Autumn Squill. Devon Tubestock
• Dichorisandra thyrisflora – Blue Ginger, a great semi shade plant. Devon Tubestock
• Costus barbatus – Red Ginger. Easy care with long lasting flowers. Devon Tubestock.
• ‘Otto luyken’ – (Prunus laurocerasus) English Laurel, a lush evergreen good for hedging or garden structure. Devon Tubestock
• Solandra maxima – Golden Chalice Vine, a fast growing vine with huge chalice shaped flowers. Devon Tubestock.
• Citrus x hybrida – Container Lemon trees including ‘Myer’, ‘Lisborn’, ‘Eureka’. Devon Tubestock
• Hydrangea x hybrida – a selection of these huge flowering easy care shrubs. Devon Tubestock
• Spirea ‘Goldflame’ – An easy to grow shrub which flowers effortlessly. Pink flowers with gorgeous gold foliage. Devon Tubestock.
• Gentiana x hybrida – A real true blue flower which is hard to find. Devon Tubestock.

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