Hibiscus

Hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia and also the state flower for Hawaii. In Malaysia, it is called bunga raya. The flower originates from South China.Hibiscus is from the Mallow family which comprises herbs or soft-woody shrubs, or trees such as the Durian and the Kapok.

Some advice for gardener who wanted to plant this flower in the garden. Water the plants well before applying any chemicals. Probably the best time is in the morning or evening and be sure to cover the undersides of the leaves. For newly bought plants from the nursery, grow them under shade and fertilize them well. After 7 to 10 days, plant them in area which receive sun.

Allamanda blanchetti

When I first started to appreciate and learn about flowers and their names, there is this common yellowish flower that can be found almost anywhere in residential and urban parks. It is called Allamanda. Now, after looking through the books again, I found there is another Allamanda called Allamanda blanchetti. Almost look alike but this one has purple flower, hence, the name purple allamanda. Like any other ornamental plants, this one is easy to propagate with stem cuttings. Just plant this flowering shrub under full sun and remember to water it regularly. However, take note, all parts of this plant are toxic and the milky sap can irritate the skin.

Alpinia

Alpinia – the word comes from a 17th century Italian botanist by the name Prosper Alpinus. Alpinia belongs to the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. In tropical Asia alone, there are well over 250 species, so that makes Alpinia the largest group in the ginger family. Most species can reach to a height of 3 meters. Flowers vary from cream to yellow, green and red. Plant Alpinias in a well drained and moist soil. These plants prefer light to moderate shade.

Some Alpinia specimens include Alpinia purpurata, Alpinia zerumbet, and Alpinia pahangensis.


Picture shows a "Alpinia purpurata"