Red Torch Ginger

Red Torch Ginger, Etlingera elatior, blooming at the Huntington Botanical Gardens. These are native to Malaysia where they are called bunga kantan, Thailand where they are called daalaa and Indonesia where they are called bunga kecombrang. In North Sumatra, the flower buds and seeds are used to flavor fish and in Thailand this plant is used in salad. The leaves have high levels of antimicrobials and antioxidants.

If you look closely at the picture, you will also see tiny drosophila attracted to the nectar although the true pollinator is more likely some sort of long beaked bird that can access the deep, tubular flowers.

Fresh Anthuriums at the Hilo Farmer's Market

Anthuriums, ginger and orchids for sale, $5, at the Hilo Farmer's market. Amazing, huh? Wow. The "vases" are old coffee cans (think Folgers) nicely wrapped in Ti leaves. It's one of my favorite farmer's markets. Ripe papayas, 5/$1; Ripe Pineapples $3. Just awesome!

Birthday Flowers

Hawaiian flowers for my birthday. My sister sent them. They remind me of home where Mom grows them in the yard. I think that was really, really sweet of her. Everyone should have a sister that nice! I'm going to try to grow the red ti leaf plant in the greenhouse when they're done.