The Pakistan (or Pakistani) Mulberry is an exotic and rare mulberry variety that bears large, long black mulberry fruit. Each fruit is 3 to 5 inches in length nearly twice the size of standard black mulberries. Sweet, juicy, and full of flavor, these impressive fruits are as striking as they are delicious.Great performer!
Graceful, Hardy, and Edible Palm
Common Names: Senegal Date Palm, African Wild Date Palm, Reclinata PalmFamily: ArecaceaeOrigin: Tropical and Subtropical Africa, Madagascar
Senegal Date Palm (Phoenix reclinata) is a beautiful, multi-trunked palm tree native to tropical and subtropical Africa, known for its elegant, arching fronds and edible fruit. This hardy palm is highly versatile, growing in a wide range of soils and climates, making it a popular choice for landscaping in both tropical and subtropical regions. The fruit, while smaller and less fleshy than the cultivated date (Phoenix dactylifera), is still edible and enjoyed by both people and wildlife. With its graceful, feathery leaves and attractive, clumping growth habit, Senegal Date Palm adds an exotic and lush element to any garden or landscape.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Edible Value
Fruits: Senegal Date Palm produces small, oval, orange-brown fruits that resemble dates. While not as sweet or fleshy as commercial dates, they are edible and often used by local populations in their native regions. The fruit is a good source of fiber and nutrients and is often consumed fresh or dried.
Foliage: The palm’s long, feathery fronds are made up of narrow leaflets, creating an elegant, arching canopy. The leaves can grow up to 10-15 feet in length, giving the tree a tropical, lush appearance.
Growth Habit: Senegal Date Palm has a clumping, multi-trunked growth habit, often forming a dense cluster of slender trunks. The tree can grow up to 20-40 feet tall with a spread of 15-25 feet, making it a striking feature in landscapes.
Ornamental and Practical Uses
Senegal Date Palm is commonly used in landscaping for its aesthetic appeal, providing shade and an exotic look to gardens, parks, and urban settings. The palm’s multi-trunked form and graceful leaves make it an excellent focal point in tropical and subtropical gardens. In its native regions, the palm is also valued for its edible fruit and is used in agroforestry for its ability to thrive in difficult conditions.
The Rose Apple, part of the Myrtaceae family (without any actual relation to roses or apples), tastes like a field of wild roses, condensed. Its yellow, mealy flesh can be eaten raw or cooked, and its creamy-white flowers can be candied to eat or cut to decorate.
Native to East Indies and Malaya, the Rose Apple, also known as the plum rose, malabar plum or poma rosa, tastes best when picked crisp and eaten immediately. You can prune the tree into a dense hedgerow or a tasty living fencepost, as the Guatamalans do, or let the Rose Apple stretch its canopy and reach its 40 ft. potential. You choose how you’d like to see the Rose Apple take shape! It’s easy-on-the-eyes, no matter what shape or size.
Yerba Mate is an evergreen tree in the Holly family (Aquifoliaceae), native to the steamy subtropics of South America. Indigenous people of Paraguay first brewed the dried leaves into a delicious beverage that is high in caffeine, antioxidants, and micronutrients. It is a commonly used beverage in South America, and now it is gaining popularity worldwide as an alternative to coffee that boosts energy, burns fat, and reduces cholesterol.
Fragrant white flowers bloom on the tree during the late fall and early winter and develop into bright red ornamental berries in the spring. The thick, leathery leaves can be harvested and dried at any time of the year when the foliage has become full on the tree. It will grow to 50 feet high outdoors and can also be grown as a container plant indoors or outdoors.
Yerba Mate will grow in full sun to partial shade in rich, loamy, well-draining soil that is never allowed to dry out. It prefers warm, humid conditions and is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Exotic, Flavorful Tropical Gem
Common Names: Purple Forest Guava, Brazilian GuavaFamily: MyrtaceaeOrigin: Tropical South America, primarily Brazil
Purple Forest Guava (Psidium eugeniaefolia) is a rare and exotic tropical fruit tree native to the rainforests of South America. This small to medium-sized tree is admired for its unique, dark purple-skinned fruit, which offers a delicious, sweet-tart flavor. Known for its attractive, glossy foliage and ornamental value, the Purple Forest Guava is also highly sought after for its nutrient-packed fruits that can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of culinary applications. This tropical guava species thrives in warm climates and is ideal for gardeners looking to grow an unusual and productive fruit tree.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: The fruits of the Purple Forest Guava are small, round, and deep purple to black when fully ripe. The flesh is sweet and aromatic, with a distinct tanginess that makes it a favorite for fresh eating, juices, and jams. The fruits are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them both nutritious and flavorful.
Foliage: The tree features glossy, dark green leaves that contrast beautifully with the rich purple fruit. The foliage is aromatic when crushed, typical of guava species, and adds ornamental value to any garden.
Growth Habit: Purple Forest Guava grows as a small to medium-sized tree or large shrub, reaching up to 10-20 feet tall, depending on growing conditions. It has a bushy, compact growth habit, making it suitable for small spaces or container growing.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
The fruit of the Purple Forest Guava is highly versatile and can be eaten fresh, made into refreshing juices, or used in jams, jellies, and desserts. The sweet-tart flavor pairs well with tropical dishes and can be incorporated into smoothies or fruit salads. The fruit is also prized for making preserves and sauces.
Medicinally, guavas are known for their high vitamin C content, which supports immune health, aids in collagen production, and protects against free radicals. The fruit’s high fiber content promotes digestive health, while the antioxidants help reduce inflammation and support overall well-being.
Spicy, Aromatic Seed with Ancient Roots
Common Names: Grains of Paradise, Melegueta Pepper, Guinea Pepper, Alligator PepperFamily: ZingiberaceaeOrigin: West Africa
Grains of Paradise (Aframomum melegueta) is a perennial plant native to West Africa, prized for its aromatic, peppery seeds that have been used as a spice for centuries. The seeds, which come from the plant’s small, reddish-brown pods, are often compared to black pepper but with more complex, warm, citrusy, and floral notes. Grains of Paradise were historically a sought-after spice in Europe during the Middle Ages and have recently gained popularity in modern cuisine, particularly in craft brewing and gourmet dishes. In addition to its culinary uses, Grains of Paradise also holds significance in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Seeds: Grains of Paradise seeds are small, brown, and peppery, with a spicy yet nuanced flavor that combines hints of cardamom, citrus, and warm spices. These seeds are used as a spice in a variety of dishes, especially in West African, North African, and Middle Eastern cuisines. The seeds are rich in essential oils and antioxidants, contributing to their distinct flavor and potential health benefits.
Foliage and Flowers: The plant features lush, green, lance-shaped leaves and produces small, beautiful flowers followed by reddish-brown seed pods.
Growth Habit: Aframomum melegueta is a perennial herb that grows up to 4-6 feet tall, with a spreading growth habit similar to other members of the ginger family.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Grains of Paradise are commonly used to add warmth and spice to savory dishes, including stews, curries, and soups. They are also used in baking, where their citrusy and peppery flavor enhances sweet and savory combinations. The seeds are popular in brewing craft beers and spirits for their subtle complexity. In traditional medicine, Grains of Paradise are believed to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and provide relief from gastrointestinal issues.
Rich in Color, Flavor, and AntioxidantsThe Wonderful Pomegranate is the most popular pomegranate variety for a reason. Known for its vibrant ruby-red arils bursting with tangy-sweet juice, this fruit tree is a must-have for edible landscaping.
Pomegranate 'Wonderful' (Punica granatum) is a vigorous, highly productive fruit tree known for its large, deep red fruit bursting with sweet-tart, antioxidant-rich arils. Originally from the Mediterranean and adapted to a wide range of climates, this drought-tolerant variety thrives in warm, sunny conditions and well-draining soil. The tree produces vibrant orange-red flowers in spring and summer, attracting pollinators before setting fruit that ripens in late summer to fall.
This hardy, drought-tolerant tree thrives in a variety of climates and doubles as an ornamental with its glossy leaves and bright orange-red flowers.
‘Wonderful’ pomegranates are prized for fresh eating, juicing, and culinary uses, offering a refreshing balance of sweetness and acidity. Wonderful Pomegranate is as versatile as it is delicious! With minimal care, this hardy tree provides a bountiful harvest and a striking ornamental presence in any edible landscape.
Soft-Seeded Persian Sweetheart with Lush, Juicy Arils
‘Azadi’ is a highly prized soft-seeded pomegranate cultivar originating from Iran — one of the ancient homelands of pomegranate cultivation. The word "Azadi" translates to "freedom" in Persian, and this variety offers growers the freedom to enjoy pomegranate’s delicious flavor with minimal crunch thanks to its tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth seeds. Its large, glossy fruits are blush-pink to pale red, housing translucent to light-pink arils that deliver a uniquely sweet, mild flavor with very low acidity. Perfect for fresh eating, juicing, and desserts, Azadi is a favorite among home gardeners looking for maximum eating quality with minimal effort.
Why Grow Pomegranate 'Azadi'?
Rare soft-seeded variety — extremely easy to eat fresh
Sweet, mild flavor with very little tartness
Beautiful pale pink skin and light-colored arils
Highly productive and drought-tolerant once established
Cold-hardy and well-suited for both warm and temperate climates
Growing Tips:
Plant Azadi pomegranate in full sun for optimal flowering and fruit production. It prefers well-drained, loamy or sandy soils and can tolerate alkaline conditions. Provide regular watering during establishment and dry periods but allow the soil to dry between waterings. Prune annually in late winter to open up the canopy for better airflow and fruit size. Azadi can handle brief dips into the upper teens (°F) with minimal damage and is well-suited for Zones 7b–10. In colder zones, it can be grown in containers and overwintered indoors. Propagation is typically done by hardwood cuttings.
Cold-Hardy Heirloom from Afghanistan with Deep Red Arils
The Afganski Pomegranate is a traditional heirloom variety from the mountains of Afghanistan, where pomegranates have been grown for thousands of years. Known for its bright red rind, jewel-toned arils, and bold, tangy-sweet flavor, Afganski is both beautiful and resilient. This cultivar is more cold-hardy than many pomegranates, tolerating temperatures down to around 10°F, making it a strong performer in both subtropical and temperate zones. With its long cultural history, reliable productivity, and ornamental beauty, Afganski is a rare gem for gardeners seeking a hardy, flavorful pomegranate with global roots.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
Pomegranates are deeply woven into the food, medicine, and symbolism of Central and South Asia, and Afganski reflects this legacy. In Afghanistan and surrounding regions, the fruit is enjoyed fresh, pressed into tart-sweet juices, or cooked into sauces and stews. The arils are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, while the fruit itself represents prosperity, fertility, and abundance in local traditions. By growing Afganski, you are cultivating a living link to ancient orchards and culinary traditions that have nourished communities for millennia.
Why Grow Afganski Pomegranate?
Hardy heirloom pomegranate from Afghanistan
Produces large fruits with deep red rind and jewel-like arils
Bold, tangy-sweet flavor—perfect for fresh eating or juicing
More cold-hardy than many pomegranate varieties (to ~10°F)
Rich in antioxidants and steeped in cultural tradition
The Gin Berry, also known as the Orange Berry, is a tropical perennial evergreen fruit small tree/shrub native to Tropical Asia and Australia. A Rutaceae family member, it is related to many other Citrus including the Blood Orange and Tango Mandarin, but has a very unique berry-like size and translucent pink color that sets it apart.
Bursting with tiny, highly fragrant white flower clusters, these blossoms grow to bear teeny-tiny pink citrus fruits. Bursting with juicy, gin-like flavors and a few big seeds, they are great for eating out of hand or adding to beverage. Incredibly beloved for their ornamental qualities, it doesn’t hurt that their fruit tastes like a gourmet gin and tonic as well! Growing up to 13 ft tall, it can be pruned in a container and brought inside during winter for curious, colder-zoned growers aiming to grow their own cocktail inspired new favorite tree!
Tangy Tropical Fruit for Unique Flavor
Common Names: Ceylon Gooseberry, Ketembilla, Kitembilla, Ceylon Gooseberry TreeFamily: SalicaceaeOrigin: Sri Lanka (Ceylon) and Southern India
The Ceylon Gooseberry (Dovyalis hebecarpa), also known as Ketembilla, is a small, tropical fruit tree native to Sri Lanka and Southern India. It is grown for its small, tart, purple fruits that are similar in size and taste to gooseberries. The fruits are prized for their unique, tangy flavor and are often used to make jams, jellies, juices, and desserts. The tree is highly ornamental, with lush, green foliage and a bushy growth habit, making it a beautiful and productive addition to tropical and subtropical gardens.
Ceylon Gooseberry was originally brought to the United States by Dr. David Fairchild. It has since been naturalized in Hawaii, Florida, Puerto Rico, Israel, and parts of Central America and South Africa.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: Ceylon Gooseberries are small, round, and turn deep purple when ripe. The fruits have a tart, slightly astringent flavor and are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. Though the fruits are sour when eaten fresh, they are excellent for making preserves, jams, and juices.
Foliage: The tree has glossy, dark green leaves that provide a dense, bushy appearance. The foliage adds an ornamental value, and the tree is often grown as a decorative hedge or fruiting shrub.
Growth Habit: Ceylon Gooseberry grows as a bushy shrub or small tree, typically reaching 6-15 feet in height. It has a spreading growth habit and is often pruned to maintain shape.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Ceylon Gooseberry fruits are commonly used in cooking, particularly for making jams, jellies, and syrups. The tart flavor complements sweeteners, making it a popular ingredient in preserves and desserts. The fruit can also be used to make refreshing juices and wine.
Medicinally, the fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health and helping to combat oxidative stress. It has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues and boost overall health.
Add fast-growing privacy and timeless greenery to your landscape with the Green Giant Arborvitae. Known for its impressive growth rate, lush evergreen foliage, and natural disease resistance, this tree is a top choice for hedges, screens, and windbreaks.
The Green Giant Arborvitae forms a dense, pyramidal shape with rich green needles that hold their color year-round. It can grow 3–5 feet per year, quickly reaching a mature height of 40–60 feet while staying compact at the base. Unlike many fast-growing trees, it is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, and resistant to most pests and diseases.
✨ Why You’ll Love It
One of the fastest-growing privacy trees
Strong and adaptable to many soil types
Resistant to bagworms, deer, and common arborvitae problems
Keeps its vibrant green color all year
Thrives in both urban and rural landscapes
🌱 Growing Tips
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil, but adaptable
Water: Water deeply and regularly until established
Spacing: Plant 5–6 ft apart for a dense privacy hedge
Maintenance: Minimal pruning needed; naturally forms a neat shape
Whether you need a fast privacy screen or a majestic evergreen specimen, the Green Giant Arborvitae delivers beauty, resilience, and shade for decades to come.
Bring vibrant, native beauty to your landscape with the Dwarf Wild Coffee ‘Little Psycho’ (Psychotria nervosa ‘Little Psycho’). This compact evergreen shrub, reaching up to 4 feet, is perfect for shaded or partially sunny areas and thrives as an understory plant beneath trees or along garden borders. Its lush, glossy foliage is complemented by delicate summer flowers that attract pollinators, while bright red berries provide essential food for birds from fall through winter. ‘Little Psycho’ is drought-tolerant once established, easy to maintain, and even serves as a host plant for the Tersa Sphinx Moth. Ideal for Florida and other subtropical regions, this shrub adds year-round interest and supports local wildlife, making it a standout choice for native and wildlife-friendly gardens
Now you can have it all! Cayenne Chili peppers are the favorites of the Capsicum Peppers for their easy growth and flavors. Their flavors are so impressive and stand out when they are dried, and we cannot believe how easy they are to dry. They make a fabulous hot pepper powder as you sprinkle the powder on anything. Our Cayenne Chile collection includes our favorite mix of Cayenne peppers.
Bundle Includes:
Golden Cayenne Pepper - 10+ Seeds
World Famous Tabasco Pepper- 10+ Seeds
Purple Cayenne Pepper - 10+ Seeds
Maule's Red Pepper - 10+ Seeds
Heirloom Pepper Joe's Cayenne Pepper- 10+ Seeds
Ristra Cayenne Pepper - 10+ Seeds
August Beauty Blooms Up to 3 Months
Why August Beauty Gardenia Shrubs?
Fragrant pure white blossoms, nearly 2 to 3 inches across, meet carefree growth, setting the August Beauty Gardenia apart. In fact, this no-nonsense shrub will bloom for up to three months at a time, signaling the season in the most fragrant, luscious way.
Plant August Beauty in strategic places where you and your guests can enjoy it most...in transition areas (entry to a gazebo, doorways, a gate), near a deck or walk, or even in enclosed areas to capture its essence. This will allow you to enjoy the fragrance every time you pass the August Beauty Gardenia.But most of all, you'll enjoy the easy care of this evergreen shrub. Plant in full sun (more shade equals fewer flowers) and water well the first year to establish its root system. Beyond that, let it grow and show off its beauty for you year-round.
Can’t get enough of Jalapeños? Enjoy growing a variety of Jalapeños and use them for many culinary uses like stuffed peppers, sauces, jellies and jam, and more. Get all 5 Jalapenos in one easy Collection and you save 20% with our Jalapeno 5-Pack!
Bundle Includes:
Chipotle Jalapeno Pepper - 10+ Seeds
Purple Jalapeno Pepper - 10+ Seeds
Giant Jalapeño Pepper - 10+ Seeds
Early Jalapeño Pepper - 10+ Seeds
Pepper Joe's Jalapeno Pepper - 10+ Seeds
The Florida Native Persimmon is a long-living perennial fruit tree in the Ebenacea family alongside the Black Sapote and Lotus Plum. Native to, you guessed it, Florida, this wind resistant, frost tolerant treasure is a prized tree among food forest growers!
With sticky, sweet, sunset-orange colored fruits and attractive dark gray bark which ages into chunky blocks resembling checkerboards, the Florida Native Persimmon is a handsome specimen with ever-changing aesthetics. In summer, the deep green leaves bear enormous canopies, sometimes up to 80 ft. tall, that stretch into perfect shade.
In fall, the leaves transform into shades of deep burgundy and burnt orange before catching the wind and exposing their ripening fruits. The Florida Native Persimmon sports gorgeous foliage that can be dried and made into a vitamin-C tea, just in time for cold season! Wait for the showy fruit to soften on the tree to eat, or use the immature fruits to boil into a black, tannin-rich dye. The seeds can be dried and used as a coffee substitute, so long as tannins don’t bother your belly. There are so many creative uses for this tree! We can’t wait until you find your favorite use for it!
These scrumptious persimmons boast an orange-pumpkin color on both its skin and flesh. When ripe, Florida Native Persimmons possess layers of flavor, reminiscent of pear, dates and brown sugar with nuances of cinnamon. Their texture varies from crisp and succulent when young, to a tender and gelatinous texture as they mature. Fruits are ready for harvest when skins are deep orange.
Seedlings take about 3-5 years to fruit. We can't wait for you to grow this amazing, delicious, Florida Native Persimmon.
Florida-Bred Grape with Bold Flavor and Disease Resistance
‘Alachua’ Muscadine Grape (Vitis rotundifolia) is a top-performing black muscadine variety developed right here in Florida—selected for its incredible sweetness, deep purple-black color, and vigorous growth. This cultivar produces medium to large grapes with tender skins, making them great for fresh eating, juicing, jellies, or even small-batch winemaking.
Unlike other grape varieties, muscadines are native to the Southeast U.S. and are uniquely adapted to hot, humid climates. The ‘Alachua’ variety is self-fertile, meaning it produces fruit on its own, and is known for its exceptional disease resistance, especially to Pierce’s disease and powdery mildew.
The vines thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, and grow rapidly on trellises, arbors, or fences. They produce reliably year after year and are incredibly low maintenance once established. Perfect for edible landscapes, wildlife gardens, and Southern food forests!
A Flavorful Southern Hybrid with Beauty, Strength, and Sweetness
The Southern Home Grape is a stunning and delicious hybrid that perfectly blends the tropical toughness of native muscadines (Vitis rotundifolia) with the classic flavor and cluster form of European grapes (Vitis vinifera). Developed by the University of Florida, this vine is as ornamental as it is productive—featuring glossy, deeply lobed leaves that resemble a fig or maple, fragrant blooms, and clusters of deep purple-black grapes with rich, sweet flavor.
Unlike traditional muscadines, Southern Home produces larger, looser clusters of grapes that are easier to harvest and enjoy fresh, straight off the vine. The fruit has the bold sweetness of a muscadine with the balanced complexity of a table grape, making it ideal for snacking, juicing, or winemaking. And since it’s adapted for Southern heat, humidity, and pests, this variety thrives where many other grapes struggle.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
Muscadines are the original Southern grape—native to the Southeast and cherished for centuries by Indigenous peoples and settlers for their intense sweetness and resilience. The Southern Home hybrid honors that legacy by combining the strength of native genetics with the refined flavor of European grapes. Today, it’s one of the most successful Southern grape varieties for home gardens and local vineyards alike. The fruit’s antioxidant-rich skins and natural sweetness make it perfect for juice, jam, jelly, or homemade wine—and even the leaves can be used for traditional stuffed grape dishes.
Why Grow Southern Home Grape?
Hybrid of muscadine and European grape—beautiful, hardy, and productive
Sweet, flavorful grapes with complex table grape flavor
Unique lobed leaves and purple-black clusters make it highly ornamental
Excellent disease resistance and heat tolerance for the South
Perfect for fresh eating, wine, juice, and preserves
Nutritious, Taro-Like Root Vegetable
Common Names: Malanga, Yautía, Cocoyam, Tannia, Arrowleaf Elephant EarFamily: AraceaeOrigin: Tropical Americas and the Caribbean
Malanga (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) is a tropical root vegetable known for its starchy tubers and large, elephant ear-shaped leaves. Popular in Caribbean, Latin American, and African cuisines, Malanga is often compared to taro, though it has a distinct nutty flavor and smoother texture when cooked. It is a highly nutritious root, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a staple food in many tropical regions. In addition to its culinary uses, Malanga is valued for its hypoallergenic properties, as it is easy to digest and often recommended for people with food sensitivities.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Tuber: Malanga produces large, starchy tubers with brown, scaly skin and creamy white, yellow, or purple flesh, depending on the variety. The tubers are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and vitamins C and B6. The tubers can be boiled, roasted, fried, or mashed, similar to potatoes or yams.
Foliage: The plant’s large, arrow-shaped green leaves add ornamental value, resembling elephant ears, making Malanga both a practical and attractive addition to tropical gardens.
Growth Habit: Malanga grows as a large herbaceous perennial, typically reaching 3-5 feet tall, with a spreading growth habit.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Malanga is primarily used as a starchy vegetable in a wide range of dishes. It can be boiled, mashed, fried, or grated into soups, stews, and fritters. It is also used to make flour, which is popular in gluten-free baking. Due to its easy digestibility, Malanga is often recommended as a hypoallergenic food for individuals with dietary restrictions or gastrointestinal issues. Its high fiber content promotes digestive health, while its nutrient profile supports overall wellness.
Hardy Night-Blooming Fruit-Bearing Cactus
Common Names: Peruvian Apple Cactus, Giant Club Cactus, Hedge CactusFamily: CactaceaeOrigin: South America (Primarily Peru, Argentina, and surrounding regions)
The Peruvian Apple Cactus (Cereus repandus) is a striking, fast-growing columnar cactus that is not only admired for its ornamental beauty but also for its delicious, edible fruit. Known for its tall, ribbed stems that can grow up to 20 feet in height, this hardy cactus thrives in warm, dry climates and produces sweet, apple-like fruits that ripen in the late summer and fall. The white, fleshy fruit is rich in nutrients, making it a tasty and healthy treat. In addition to its unique fruit, the Peruvian Apple Cactus is a night-bloomer, producing large, fragrant white flowers that bloom after dark.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: The fruit of the Peruvian Apple Cactus is round and typically about the size of a small apple, with a smooth, waxy exterior that can range from light green to pinkish-red when ripe. Inside, the flesh is white or light pink, dotted with small, edible black seeds, similar to those in dragon fruit. The flavor is mildly sweet, with a crisp texture reminiscent of a pear or apple. The fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber, making it a nutritious snack.
Foliage: The tall, ribbed stems of the cactus have a blue-green hue and are covered with small spines along the ridges. The stems can grow up to 20 feet tall and branch out, creating a striking, sculptural form in the landscape.
Growth Habit: Peruvian Apple Cactus is a fast-growing columnar cactus that can reach heights of 15-20 feet or more. It is drought-tolerant, easy to grow, and thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it an ideal choice for xeriscapes or water-wise gardens.
Culinary and Ornamental Uses
The edible fruits of the Peruvian Apple Cactus are often enjoyed fresh or added to fruit salads, smoothies, and desserts. Their mildly sweet, refreshing taste makes them a popular treat in warm climates. The cactus is also prized for its ornamental value, with its tall, sculptural form and night-blooming flowers adding a dramatic element to landscapes, patios, or even large containers.
Giant, Versatile Fruit Tree
Common Names: Jackfruit, Jakfruit, NangkaFamily: MoraceaeOrigin: South and Southeast Asia
The Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a tropical tree known for producing the largest fruit of any tree, weighing up to 100 pounds or more. Native to South and Southeast Asia, Jackfruit trees are highly prized for their fruit, which has a unique texture and sweet, tropical flavor. The tree is an excellent addition to tropical and subtropical gardens, growing quickly and producing abundant fruit within a few years. Jackfruit seedlings are a great way to start growing this versatile and nutritious fruit, which can be eaten fresh, cooked, or used as a meat substitute in plant-based diets.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruit: The Jackfruit produces massive, oblong fruits covered in a spiky green or yellow rind. Inside, the sweet, golden-yellow flesh is divided into pods that are rich in flavor and can be eaten fresh, cooked in savory dishes, or used in desserts. Young, unripe jackfruit is often used as a plant-based meat alternative due to its texture and ability to absorb flavors. Jackfruit is highly nutritious, providing significant amounts of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Foliage: The tree has large, glossy green leaves that provide shade and create a lush, tropical appearance.
Growth Habit: Jackfruit trees can grow up to 80 feet tall in ideal conditions but are usually pruned to a manageable height of 20-30 feet in home gardens. The tree grows quickly, and seedlings can begin fruiting within 3-5 years under optimal conditions.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Jackfruit is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. The ripe fruit is sweet and fragrant, often compared to a mix of pineapple, banana, and mango. It is eaten fresh or used in desserts, smoothies, and jams. The young, unripe fruit is a popular meat substitute in vegan and vegetarian dishes due to its fibrous texture. It is commonly used in curries, tacos, and sandwiches. In traditional medicine, various parts of the jackfruit tree are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and the seeds can be boiled or roasted and eaten as a snack.
Hoja Santa, also commonly known as Mexican Pepperleaf, Veracruz Pepper, Rootbeer Plant or False Kava is a hardy perennial herb. Hoja Santa is native to northern South American and Mexico. It's native name means "Sacred Leaf".
Giant, velvety heart-shaped leaves grow to 10 inches or more in length. Both leaves and flowers are very aromatic and full of flavor. The flavor is very complex, with delightly notes of licorice, eucalyptus, sassafras, anise, nutmeg, mint, tarragon, and black pepper. The plant spreads from the tuber and will quickly sprout many shoots.
Large, fragrant leaves are used fresh in Mexican cuisine for tamales, wrapping fish or meat and as an essential ingredient in true Mole Verde, the green sauce that originated in the Oaxaca region of Mexico. Fresh Hoja Santa can also be chopped to flavor soups and salads. Despite their culinary popularity, fresh leaves are very difficult to find in grocery stores or at markets, so growing this hardy plant at home is a great idea.
LIMITED RELEASE! Golden Petals for Medicine, Skincare, and Pollinators
Calendula, also known as Pot Marigold, is a beloved herbal flower grown for its vibrant orange-gold blossoms and powerful medicinal and skin-soothing properties. Native to the Mediterranean and now cultivated around the world, Calendula has been used for centuries in salves, teas, tinctures, and beauty products thanks to its gentle anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal compounds.
Calendula blooms over a long season, producing cheerful, daisy-like flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. The petals are edible, slightly peppery, and perfect for garnishing salads, infusing oils, or blending into skin-healing balms.
It’s also incredibly easy to grow—thriving in containers, garden beds, or borders, even in poor soil. Calendula prefers full sun, self-seeds readily, and blooms from spring through fall, offering a steady supply of petals for harvest and a splash of golden joy in any landscape.