TropicalDispatchSD11

Marie selby botanical gardens Volume 38 number 3 september–december 2011

Selby

tropical dispatch

Beautiful Bonsai page 5 Cool Plants for Cool Season Color page 7 Fat Plants page 8

cynthia dwyer

Preserving Plants for Art and Science page 9

lisa wade

Annual Meeting Members’ Day page 3 Selby Gardens Mansion Horticulture Display

A Message from the CEO

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Board of Trustees Nora Johnson, Chair Dr. Laurey Stryker, Vice Chair Thomas B. Luzier, Esq., Immediate Past Chair Christopher N. Romine, Treasurer Wilson M. Jones, Secretary Stephen Hazeltine Cathy Layton Sandy Rederer Michael Saunders Stephen van C. Wilberding Carlyle Luer, MD, Trustee Emeritus Allison Archbold, Associates President (ex-Officio)

In 1957, noted southern gardener and writer Elizabeth Lawrence wrote in her book Through The Garden Gate: “This is the gate of my garden, I invite you to enter in: not only into my garden, but into the world of gardens—a world as the history of man, and as new as the latest contributions of science; a world of mystery, adventure and romance; a world of poetry and philosophy; a world of beauty and a world of work.

Never let yourself be deceived about the work. There is no royal road to gardening—although men seem to think there is.”

For the horticulturists and botanists that care for the garden at Selby, they will tell you that Elizabeth Lawrence hit the nail on the head; a good garden requires a great deal of work and thought to keep and manage a plant collection and to care for the garden where they grow. For many years, the work of botanists and horticulturists were closely linked in botanic gardens and arboretums for much of the twentieth century. At some point they took separate paths with botanical research no longer being connected to enriching a garden’s living collections.

Fortunately the relationship still continues at Selby Gardens. At Selby, I envision a strengthening of both disciplines to create a center for learning and display.

As we continue to stabilize and grow Selby Gardens, the synergistic link between botany and horticulture will be strengthened. The return of botanical expeditions to Central and South America will be an important source of collection plants, herbarium specimens, and publications furthering the knowledge of epiphytes.

Thanks to all who have already given of their time and treasure. I invite you to enter the garden gate and be part of the team, through your contributions of funds and expertise, to take Selby Gardens to the forefront of botanical gardens worldwide.

Cordially,

Contributors Executive Office Thomas Buchter, Chief Executive Officer Botany David Benzing, Ph.D., Jesse B. Cox Chair in Tropical Botany Bruce Holst, Director of Plant Collections Toscano de Brito, Ph.D., Research Botanist Development Ann Logan, Chief Development Officer Dan Johnson, Director of Events Cynthia Dwyer, Membership and Development Coordinator Emily Lane, Manager of Volunteer Services and Grants Education Jeannie Perales, Director of Education Marilynn Shelley, Manager of Community Classes and Exhibits Finance Bill Lewis, Chief Financial Officer Horticulture Mike McLaughlin, Director of Horticulture Angel Lara, Greenhouse Manager Lisa Wade, Senior Gardens Horticulturist Marketing Diane Creasy, Director of Marketing/Editor of Tropical Dispatch Barbara Kaminksy-Stern, Executive Assistant/Editor’s Assistant Retail Amy Sullivan, Welcome Center and The Garden Shop Manager

Mission Statement

“To further the understanding and appreciation of plant life, with emphasis on epiphytes, and to provide enjoyment to all who visit the Gardens.”

Thomas Buchter, CEO Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Vision Statement

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is the leader in the study, conservation, and display of epiphytes and their canopy habitats.

Our collection of epiphytes is the best in the world. Our visitors see beautiful horticultural displays and learn from our educational programs. They take away with them a better understanding and greater appreciation of the natural world and the challenges it faces.

Program Sponsors

The Tropical Dispatch is a publication of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Please send address changes to Linda Romero, Development Associate, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 811 South Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236. E-mail lromero@selby.org. Telephone: (941) 366-5731, ext. 224.

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Visit Selby Gardens at www.selby.org

Selby Gardens programs are sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and are paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenue.

Cover Photo: Lisa Wade. Inset: Cynthia Dwyer

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Annual Meeting and Members’ Day Saturday, November 12, 2011

8:00 am – Mansion Gate Check in – Please bring your membership card.

9:00 am – Annual Meeting Thomas Buchter, Chief Executive Officer – State of the Gardens 10:00 am – 2:30 pm Member Plant Distribution by the Banyans Come early and choose from 10 plants specially grown for Selby Gardens members.

Gardens Friend or Family – 2 Plants Contributing Member – 3 Plants Sustaining Member – 5 Plants Sponsor level and above – 10 Plants Quantities of certain plants are limited.

10:00 am – 1:00 pm Members’ Greenhouse Plant Sale under the Banyan Trees Ask horticultural experts your plant questions. Plants from Selby’s own greenhouses will be available for purchase.

10:00 am – 5:00 pm Begin your Holiday Shopping Early!

A 20% discount offered to members in The Garden Shop.

12:30 pm – 3:30 pm Volunteer Orientation Great Room by the Bay.

PLEASE NOTE: Distribution of plants will take place only on November 12, 2011 from 10:00 am – 2:30 pm.

Rain checks, shipping, or holding of plants is not available.

1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Greenhouse Plant Sale opens to non-members.

Distribution Plants 2011 Angel Lara, Greenhouse Manager

This is an incredibly easy to grow primary hybrid of two very popular Cattleya species: Cattleya mossiae and Cattleya purpurata. It has extremely fragrant 6" lavender-blue flowers that can bloom twice a year. It has the ability to become a specimen plant in just a few years. Keep dry during the winter months. dr. phil nelson

most commonly used Cattleya species for hybridizing. Sporting three flowers per spike, very attractive and uncommon yellow sepals and petals surround a large dark crimson-purple lip with gold veins.

Grows best under low to medium light.

Start young plants under low light to help establish and eventually move to higher light when mature. Keep dry and protect in winter to avoid rot. carmela orchids, inc.

dr. phil nelson

Orchidaceae

1101. Cattleya dowiana Described in 1866, this unifoliate Cattleya is found growing from Costa Rica to Colombia as a medium sized cool to warm growing epiphyte. Cattleya dowiana blooms late summer to early fall and is one of the The Tropical Dispatch  September–December 2011

1102. Cattleya Canhaimiana coerulea ‘Azure Skies’ CCM/AOS

1103. Cattlianthe Chocolate Drop ‘Kodama’ CCM/AOS Two all-time favorite orchids Cattleya 3

Described and named by Harry Luther for Mulford B. Foster, a man known by many as the “Father of the Bromeliad.” Plant in a well-draining terrestrial mix, keep moist year-round in a shady spot and protect from cold temperatures.

Distribution Plants

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guttata and Guarianthe aurantiaca are used to produce this exquisite primary hybrid whose flowers emit a fragrance reminiscent of rose and citrus. This eye-catching hybrid is preferably grown under medium to high light conditions and is suitable for orchid containers, slatted baskets or mounted on driftwood or cork. dr. phil nelson

dr. phil nelson

Gesneriaceae

This vigorous grower has very large leaves and appreciates some direct sun and frequent watering. Large panicle-shaped inflorescences display burgundy bracts and crisp white flowers. Blooms heavily in the winter, and sporadically during the summer. If your home is outside of hardiness zone 9b, you may want to plant Megaskepasma under the protection of a tree canopy. Red cloak will provide an excellent screening shrub reaching approximately 8'10'. Surprisingly it can also be maintained as a container plant for a balcony or lanai.

mike mclaughlin

Lamiaceae

1106. Achimenes erecta, Hot water plant During a 2002 expedition to Belize this gesneriad was wild collected by Director of Plant Collections Bruce Holst. Selby Gardens’ horticulturists propagated this specimen by rhizome divisions in late winter. It is a remarkably tough Gesneriad despite its small stature and delicate appearance. It has dark-green, scalloped, ovate leaves with soft hairs and red veins underneath. At the terminal end of each cascading stem emerges a profusion of dark-red, trumpet-shaped flowers in winter. Grow in indirect light outdoors, and allow the medium to dry somewhat between waterings.

1104. Bulbophyllum auratum Propagated from Selby Gardens’ own living specimen, this warm growing orchid needs partial shade, high humidity, and good air circulation. Endemic to Thailand and the Philippines this diminutive orchid exhibits a fan-like inflorescence that carries shoeshaped flowers on a long spike. Perfect for mounting on cork but can also easily be grown in slotted orchid pots or slatted baskets in a loose mix. Keep moist when plant is actively growing and drier during the cooler winter months when it is resting.

Surprisingly, this petite Bulbophyllum can withstand our winter climate. Increase watering in late winter or early spring to promote flowering in late spring and well into the summer months.

dr. phil nelson

Acanthaceae

dr. phil nelson

Bromeliaceae

1108. Vitex trifolia ‘Purpurea,’ Arabian lilac Native to the Pacific Islands, this spectacular mounding shrub has an overall silvery appearance with blushes of purple when the wind tips its leaves. It has soft whorls of lavender flowers that emerge in mid-summer. Prefers high light, hot, and dry conditions and can easily grow at a moderate rate to a height of around 8', cut back to shape after flowering. It is hardy to the mid 20’s and will tolerate salt spray.

Angel Lara will be offering his “Potting and Mounting Orchids” class on Tuesday, October 26th

1105. Fosterella spectabilis Grown from seed from Selby Gardens’ living specimen, this leafy bromeliad is endemic to Bolivia and has an attractive long branched inflorescence that has pendent flowers with red colored petals.

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1107. Megaskepasma erythrochlamys, Brazilian red cloak Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Beautiful Bonsai Not As Scary As They Look Mike McLaughlin, Director of Horticulture

The Tropical Dispatch  September–December 2011

with a thick single trunk that flares at the soil level, as this will help give the impression of an aged tree.

As you begin training your new bonsai-to-be, examine your style chart or the trees on display in our Sho Fu Bonsai Exhibit. Notice how the trees have low, squat proportions (reminiscent of full-sized

trees), the foliage is pruned into distinct layers or “clouds,” and the trunks are visible from the front (most bonsai are designed to be viewed from one side). Boldly prune down the top of your plant, trim away branches in between foliage layers, and remove branches blocking the view of the

1. A typical nursery specimen of dwarf holly.

lisa wade

mike mclaughlin

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2. Initial pruning of the canopy.

3. Root pruning.

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lisa wade

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erhaps you have admired a magnificent bonsai tree and have wondered about the skills required to create it. Maybe you’ve been given a charming bonsai as a gift, only to have it die inexplicably. Discouraged, you might have been left with the impression that growing bonsai is difficult, expensive, and time consuming. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be. With just basic gardening skills and tools, you too can be successful at this ancient Asian art form.

First developed in China, the art of bonsai became popular in Japan around 1200 AD, where the words for tray (bon) and planting (sai) were used to describe miniaturized trees grown in shallow pots.

The Japanese created many rules governing the form of “proper” bonsai, but I believe the beginner should be less concerned about following rules and focus instead on experimentation and having fun. You don’t need expensive materials – normal hand pruners, a pair of fine-tipped pruners or scissors, standard pots, and regular nursery-grade plants will work just fine. As you succeed and become more interested in bonsai, you can invest in specialty tools and equipment.

Your first steps will be to select a bonsai style and find a victim (plant subject) on which to experiment. You can find charts of basic styles by typing “bonsai styles” into an online image search; upright styles are generally easier for beginners. When choosing a species of tree or shrub to work with, select a species with small leaves that is vigorous and resilient in our climate. Some popular species for Florida bonsai include weeping fig (Ficus benjamina), dwarf holly (Ilex vomitoria ‘Schillings Dwarf ’), and Fukien tea (Carmona retusa). As tempting as they are, beginners should avoid conifers (cone bearing plants) because of summer disease issues. Your bonsai should be grown outside in strong light, providing the same conditions as if you were growing that species in the ground. Select a healthy potted tree or shrub at your garden center

4. Finished initial styling.

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Beautiful Bonsai

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main trunk. It may look a bit stark at first, but rest assured that a vigorous species will quickly fill in with new leaves.

So what about the pot and soil? Part of the reason bonsai are grown in trays is to restrict the roots and stunt the plant.

But during initial training, I think a well developed root system is advantageous.

Keep your plant in the container it came in, and only repot if it has outgrown the pot or the soil has broken down. Eventually you’ll want to move your plant into a shallow pot so it looks like a bonsai. This can be achieved by slicing off the bottom of the

root ball and repotting in a low container.

Once you’ve removed roots, be mindful to monitor soil moisture daily, as you have limited the plant’s reservoir for water and nutrients. Specially blended bonsai soil can be used, but it is designed to help stunt the plant, and can be unforgiving to a novice. Care for your bonsai by fertilizing periodically, prune when it begins to get leggy, monitor for pests, and repot annually with fresh potting soil.

To learn more about growing bonsai, go online, visit the library, or stop at our Garden Shop bookstore for a variety of titles on the topic. By far the best method for learning about bonsai (or any other

plant group for that matter) is to join a local club or society and learn from experienced members who will provide you with plants and demonstrations, answer your questions, and teach you techniques firsthand. For many, the reward of growing bonsai is a sort of therapy or meditation that in time yields a piece of living art. Give bonsai a try…I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised with what you’ll be able to achieve at minimal expense.

Sho Fu Bonsai Society of Sarasota, FL shofubonsai.org meet the second Wednesday of every month at Selby Gardens

A New Bonsai on Display

By Kay Karioth, President, Sho Fu Bonsai Society of Sarasota, FL

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cliff roles

he latest addition to the Sho Fu Bonsai Exhibit is an impressive buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus).

The tree is approximately 60 years old, and was collected in the area surrounding Bokeelia on Pine Island, Florida several years ago.

Buttonwood is native to South Florida, the Caribbean, South America, and Mexico. Its wood is very hard and does not rot, and they are known for their extensive “deadwood,” making them very desirable specimens for use in the art of bonsai.

Their wood was actually once used to make buttons, hence the common name.

The Sho Fu Bonsai Society of Sarasota recently hosted Dr. Enrique Castano, an internationally famous author, botanist, researcher, and bonsai artist from Merida, Mexico, who styled and carved the tree.

This very large specimen was shaped into the informal upright style with intricate and extensive carving of the deadwood.

Society volunteers worked with another internationally known bonsai artist and Sho Fu member, Erik Wigert, to root, prune, and pot the tree in its current bonsai container.

We invite you to stop by the Sho Fu Bonsai Exhibit and take a look at the newest addition to the collection.

Buttonwood bonsai

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Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Cool Plants for Cool Season Color Article and photos by Lisa Wade, Senior Gardens Horticulturist

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ost people from northern climates plan for and plant annual color in the springtime. At Selby Gardens our staff designs and installs our major annual color plantings in late fall so that we will have color all season long for our winter visitors.

Our winter palate of annuals is similar to those used by our northern guests in the spring. We use snapdragons, petunias, pansies, and violets along with alyssum and lobelia. This far south we have some more tropical material available such as assorted types of begonias and varieties of impatiens. We frequently experiment with plants that most might consider too exotic for use as bedding plants.

Some of the more unusual plants that we used successfully last winter were licorice plant (Helichrysum thianschanicum ‘Icicles’), treasure flower (Gazania rigens), strawflower (Helichrysum bracteatum), gaura (Gaura lindheimeri), which occasionally goes by the name “whirling butterflies,” and fan flower (Scaevola aemula).

Licorice plants are really easy to grow. This compact plant never needs pruning, making it an excellent choice in the ground or for a mixed container. Licorice plants like to grow in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Since the plant is grown mainly for its showy silver foliage, the small yellowish flower should be removed. Licorice plants make an excellent contrasting backdrop for the brightly colored flowers of impatiens.

Treasure flowers like full sun. They are available in colors ranging from red to yellow, including bronze and some striped varieties. It has silver grey foliage and is a profuse bloomer that attracts bees and butterflies. When planted in large masses, they really make a statement.

Strawflower is another sun lover. They are primarily available in yellow, but occasionally reddish-bronze and pinkish-white varieties can be found. One unusual fact about strawflower is what appear to be petals are actually bracts (modified leaves) surrounding the central corolla. The bracts are papery with a straw-like, crackly texture, hence the common name. They are sure to draw attention wherever they are planted.

Gaura is considered a perennial, but we treat it as an annual.

Drought tolerant once established, it is a profuse bloomer through most of the season requiring occasional dead-heading to keep it from looking too ragged. It flourishes in full sun and attracts butterflies and bees. Originally available in white to pale pink, several new cultivars offer deeper shades of pink like ‘Siskiyou Pink’ which performed well during our winter color season and into summer.

Fan flower does well in full sun. Originally from Australia, they are drought tolerant once established and do not require dead heading.

Did I mention bees and butterflies like it? It makes a great ground cover and does well in hanging baskets. It is one of the last of our winter annuals that are still going strong. (Stay tuned to see if it goes through the summer.)

Don’t be afraid to try non-traditional annuals! One of the most rewarding moments for our horticulture staff is when visitors compliment our annual displays and ask for names and information so that they can try these cool plants in their own yards.

The Tropical Dispatch  September–December 2011

Helichrysum thianschanicum, licorice plant

Gazania rigens, treasure flower

Helichrysum bracteatum, strawflower

Gaura lindheimeri, guara

Scaevola aemula, fan flower

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Fat Plants Angel Lara, Greenhouse Manager to self pollinate and produce seed-ejecting pods. These fat plants can stand alone in a designer pot or can easily fill in a section of the landscape.

Desert Rose, Adenium obesum Easily the most recognizable fat plant grown, desert rose grows naturally all over Africa, and produces beautiful velvety trumpet-shaped red to white flowers in late spring/early summer. Its caudex can measure over two feet across and its overall height can reach 8 to 10 feet. Recent hybridization has produced some amazing flowering types that include mottled forms with names like ‘Harry Potter.’

Pregnant Onion, Loncomelos caudatus This bizarre name is given to an astounding member of the hyacinth family.

Surprisingly, it reproduces by making an exact clone of itself and positioning it on its stomach-like swollen base, earning it its common name. This offspring can easily drop down next to the plant making a small colony or can be distributed amongst friends and family. It has strappy, shiny lime-green leaves, and a long inflorescence that holds its small green and white star-like flowers which together resemble a candy cane. This easy to grow conversation piece is a great candidate for Sarasota container culture. mike mclaughlin

mike mclaughlin

mike mclaughlin

mike mclaughlin

itself to be durable enough to be used as a house or interiorscape container plant.

Its remarkable inflorescence has many tiny white flowers and is reminiscent of a whisk broom.

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alling your beloved “fat” would ordinarily land you in the doghouse. However, these curvaceous plants are some of my favorites and they look great with a little extra “junk in the trunk.” Called caudiciforms, they are grouped together because they share a common trait, a swollen base or caudex.

They have special tissues in their bases or growing centers that give them the ability to store water and nutrients, allowing these incredibly tough plants to grow in some of the worst environmental conditions.

This distinguishing characteristic also makes caudiciforms visually impressive and a must-have for any plant enthusiast’s collection. Common fat plants found in our south Florida landscapes include the ponytail palm, desert rose, and purging nut. Caudiciforms can be found in just about every plant family. Some unique and exciting fat plants to try are the edible fat plant, rock ficus, climbing onion, and pregnant onion. Due to their ease of care, these magnificent plants can make even a brown thumb turn green, and some are easily propagated for sharing with fellow plant geeks. Give these exceptional plants a chance, and find out the true meaning of growing and loving a fat plant.

Ponytail Palm, Beaucarnea recurvata A member of the lily family, this Mexican caudiciform is not a true palm but a gentle giant that has grassy-type leaves atop a swollen trunk that can often reach 20 feet tall. Surprisingly, it has also proven 8

Purging Nut, Jatropha podagrica Like most members of the Euphorbiaceae family, Jatropha podagrica is highly poisonous. That said, this wonderfully easy to grow fat plant has very attractive palmate leaves and displays red flowers year-round.

Some interesting features are their ability

Climbing Onion, Bowiea volubilis Another popular caudiciform in the hyacinth family, this strange fat plant looks Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

mike mclaughlin

Edible Fat Plant, Fockea edulis An eccentric member of the milkwort family and my all time favorite fat plant is

one of the few edible caudiciforms. Native to South Africa, these tough plants are known to grow in very harsh conditions and can even grow in hard gravel roads crowded with boulders and rocks. Eaten in Namibia as a famine food, its swollen base can reach an astounding 8 to 10 feet around. Many caudiciform enthusiasts bury the caudex in order to encourage it to swell more quickly.

mike mclaughlin

exactly like an onion, paper-like sheath and all. It has a vining habit and can be easily grown indoors. Small yet stunning shiny green flowers can be easily hidden within its graceful canopy. It is important to allow this plant to dry in winter.

Rock Ficus, Ficus petiolaris A rare Mexican ficus with heart shaped green leaves with predominate red or pink veins. Perfect for containers, but can also be grown in the ground where it will quickly become a small tree. It does bear small figs that are inedible and when mature, can produce a large base or caudex in a relatively short time. It does well in full to partial sun and will require a dry period in winter.

Rock Ficus, Ficus petiolaris

Preserving Plants for Art and Science Anna Beatty, Selby Gardens’ Explorer Bruce Holst, Director of Plant Collections

Science While not everyone can go to the Colombian Amazon to see a plant in the wild, any scientist can come to Selby Gardens and study a preserved specimen.

Selby’s preserved collection is comprised of 104,000 dried and pressed plants and 28,000 specimens preserved in liquid spirits. This represents perhaps 20,000 species, or approximately 5% of all plant species on Earth. This collection is small when compared to some herbaria such as

The oldest known preserved specimen in the Selby Gardens Herbarium is Bonamia grandiflora, or Florida bonamia, a member of the morning glory family. It was collected in 1878 by a physician-botanist traveling down the coast of Florida by boat and was likely common in the abundant scrub vegetation present at that time. Scrub vegetation, however has been severely impacted and greatly reduced in acreage by agriculture and urban development, and with it, went the Florida bonamia, at least in Sarasota County.

Outside of the County it is now restricted to a dozen or so populations and recognized as “threatened” by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

digital scan by bruce holst

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n the garden, flowers bloom and then quickly fade. However, with a few simple techniques plants can be preserved for years, and in some cases much longer. Scientists, artists, and amateurs have been using these methods for hundreds of years to dry and press many kinds of plants. Scientists typically use preserved plant specimens to identify and classify plant species, as well as to learn about plant diversity and distribution. Artists use preserved plants to create decorative floral art that will maintain long-lasting beauty.

continued on next page The Tropical Dispatch  September–December 2011

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Preserving Plants

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An elegant and colorful arrangement of preserved plants, created by Patricia Bonarek.

Bonamia grandiflora, growing at the closest location to Sarasota, in eastern Manatee County. This federally protected species needs open, scrub habitat to survive, a habitat that has been greatly reduced in Florida.

the Missouri Botanical Garden with six million specimens or the Paris Museum of Natural History with eight million.

Selby Gardens’ collection, however, is wellknown for being focused on epiphytic plant species of the American Tropics.

Pressing and drying plant specimens preserves key features such as the shape of the leaves and flowers, which can be used to determine the species of the plant and provide materials needed for preparing technical plant descriptions. These pressed specimens can last hundreds of years; Selby Gardens has a number of 19th century specimens, and other herbaria have plants dating back centuries. The earliest herbaria were made in medieval times, when medicinal herbs were pressed as a guide for medical practitioners. Liquidpreserved specimens are helpful where the 3-dimensional nature of the object is important, such as is the case with the orchid family. Selby Gardens maintains the second-largest plant spirit collection in the world, after the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Art Many artists used preserved plants in their work. Whether they are for the pressedflower collage of an English garden or a four-foot-high sculpture created by a Japanese flower arranger, dried and preserved plants add a touch of nature to an art museum or gallery. From the 10

ancient Japanese art of flower arranging, to the traditional pressed-flower scrapbook, preserved plants have always enhanced our lives with their beauty. Here’s how you can make your own preserved flower arrangement and press the flowers from your garden.

Preserved Flower Arrangements The ephemeral beauty of a fresh flower arrangement can be enjoyed for years by drying the flowers. Many tropical plants commonly found in Florida, such as orchids, bird of paradise, bougainvillea, and hibiscus, look best when they are dried using silica gel rather than being air dried, because the color is preserved. Silica gel for flower drying can be found at most craft stores. To use it, place a layer of silica gel in an airtight container, place the flower in the container, and then sift the silica over the flower until it is completely covered.

Leave for three days to a week, and then check to make sure the flower is dry (will feel crisp and dry to the touch). If you are drying a particularly succulent flower, you may need to re-dry the silica gel in the oven. If you want the flower to dry in minutes rather than days, you can use the microwave. Place a cup of water in the back of the microwave and put the container of silica (including the flower) in the center.

Heat for two to three minutes…done!

To air-dry plants, cut the leaves off the stems, soak in water overnight, bundle with string, then hang upside down in a

warm, dry place for two to three weeks.

This method works best for lighter plants, flower spikes, and seed heads.

Pressed Flowers Any plant can be pressed, but some retain their colors better than others. Experiment with the flowers in your garden to see which ones turn out best; as a general rule, the flatter the flower, the better. Gesneriads such as African Violets keep their color well. Pressed ferns and other leafy materials are beautiful and often strong enough to use in a flower arrangement. Here are some ways to press flowers and plants without having to go out and buy a lot of fancy equipment.

For the simplest press, place the flower in tissues between the pages of a book and place a weight on top of the book. Leave for two to three weeks. To hurry the drying process, you can place book, flower and all into the microwave for 20–30 seconds at a time. To make a ‘real’ press, you will need two pieces of plywood, three bricks, paper towels or tissues, and newspaper or recycled paper. Layer it as such: plywood board, three sheets newspaper, two layers paper towel, plant, two layers paper towel, three sheets newspaper, plywood board, and finally three bricks on top. Change the newspaper every day for the first two to three days, then once a week for two to three weeks. Mount your finished product on heavy paper and frame it if you wish, or place it in a scrapbook.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

The Marie Selby Gardens Associates

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nder the leadership of new President Allison Archbold, the Marie Selby Gardens Associates are preparing another year filled with interesting programs, fundraisers, social events and volunteer opportunities. The organization’s board is using the results of a recent members’ survey to plan, seeking activities that relate directly to Selby Gardens’ mission of botanical research, education, conservation, and horticultural display. “Although we know our members love the Gardens, it was really useful to learn just how greatly they value opportunities to learn about Selby Gardens and its work, to mix with the staff, and to raise money to support the Gardens,“ said Archbold.

During the July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011 fiscal year, the Associates contributed $30,000 in general operating support to Selby Gardens, raising most of the funding through two successful fundraising events. The group is well underway with planning for the 2nd Annual Wine Dine & Pine, a silent auction of holiday décor and gifts, on the evening of Wednesday, November 30.

2011–2012 Officers and Directors President Vice President Secretary Treasurer

Diane Demont Gundi Pease

Allison Archbold Carmen Baskind Carol Kreit Linda Lestock

Karen LaBonte Gil Lee Jane Paulishak Sue Scully Tracy Seider Michele Stone

2nd Annual

Meetings and Events of the Marie Selby Gardens Associates are open to the public. Reservations and payment required.

Events and Meeting Schedule (subject to change): Monday, October 17, 2011, 11:30 am

Luncheon Meeting and Expedition Lecture Tuesday, November 1, 2011, 5:00 to 9:00 pm

Selby Night at Cosimo’s! Dine at Cosimo’s in Westfield Southgate Mall and mention the Selby Associates, and Cosimo’s will donate 10% of your check to the Gardens Wednesday, November 30, 2011, 5:30 to 7:30 pm

Wine Dine & Pine (tickets go on sale on selby.org on October 15, 2011) Monday, January 16, 2012, 11:30 am

Luncheon Meeting and Tillandsia Tapestry Demo Monday, February 20, 2012, 11:30 am Lavender Luncheon and Talk Sunday, March 4, 2012, 3:00 pm

High Tea (tickets go on sale on selby.org on February 2, 2012) Monday, May 21, 2012, 11:30 am

Annual Meeting

Please r.s.v.p. $50 per person includes samples of great wines, along with cheeses and appetizers provided by

Presented by The Marie Selby Gardens Associates in The Great Room by the Bay

Wednesday, November 30, 2011 5:30 - 7:30 pm Silent Auction Bidding Closes at 7:00 pm

Sponsorships Available $500 Royal Palm level incudes 4 tickets $250 Banyan level includes 2 tickets $100 Sabal Palm level includes 1 ticket

Bid on jewelry, tableware and one-of-a-kind trees creatively decorated by local artists and businesses.

Reservations available beginning October 15th at selby.org

$50 person includes 2011 samples of great wines The Tropical Dispatch  per September–December along with cheeses and appetizers provided by

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Celebrating our Major Supporters: The Chairman’s Circle cliff roles

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Laurey Stryker and Ann Logan at the Chairman’s Circle July 4th event.

Ikebana demonstrations, and talked with Selby field botanists about their work.

On the evening of July 4th, the Chairman’s Circle hosted an intimate get-together in the Mansion. Attendees dined on a gourmet spread then adjourned to the second floor to view the fireworks in air-conditioned comfort.

Later this year, the Chairman’s Circle will host programs including an exclusive tour of the Gardens’ research collection, private events during Members’ Day and Lights in Bloom, and others. Special thanks to Michael’s on East and Whole Foods Market for sponsoring the first two Chairman’s Circle events.

To learn more or to become a founding member or sponsor of the Chairman’s Circle, visit selby.org or contact Ann Logan, (941) 366-5731 ext. 266, alogan@selby.org. cliff roles

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arlier this year, Selby Gardens invited supporters to become founding members of the new Chairman’s Circle.

The Chairman’s Circle is an opportunity for Selby Gardens’ most dedicated contributors to provide annual support for one or more Gardens activities about which they are especially passionate.

During the past few months, the Chairman’s Circle has welcomed guests for two unique insider events. In late May, a select group of Gardens supporters was treated to champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and behind-the-scenes tours by the CEO and Directors of Horticulture, Plant Collections, and Education. Attendees roamed the Conservatory and greenhouses, learned about the culture of chocolate, watched bonsai and

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Bob and Jeanne Zabelle with Michael Saunders and Laurey Stryker

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Chris Romine, Diane Creasy, and Vince Northfield

Billy Gamble, Steve Wilberding, Teri Hansen, and Chris Romine

Elaine Keating, Jeannie Perales, and Sidney Katz Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

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GartenFest – Fall Music Series October 9, 16, 23 & 30 Sunday Afternoons 1 pm to 3 pm Enjoy music, entertainment and a BierGarten under the Banyans For details on performances, see selby.org Thank you to our sponsors: SNN6 and SRQ Magazine. Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenue.

Home for the Holidays: The Designer Showhouse at Selby Gardens December 1, 2011 through January 2, 2012, in the Mansion

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he Florida West Coast Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) will expand the scope of its popular holiday showhouse in the Mansion for 2011, decking the entire first floor with stunning holiday décor.

Eleven talented designers will transform the Museum of Botany & the Arts into a glittering holiday showhouse, even creating a kitchen on the sun porch. “We decided to keep the house looking like a home,” said Will Brown, ASID president and chair of ASID’s Payne Mansion Executive Committee. “We’ve chosen the classic phalaenopsis orchid as a unifying theme while letting each designer shine in the area they’ve chosen to decorate.”

Lux-Art Silks will be a major sponsor this year, and Brown says he’s having no trouble recruiting other professionals.

“I’ve been doing showhouses for 35 years, but I’ve never before seen this level of excitement,” says Brown. Decorators will use fresh, vibrant wall colors, elegant furniture, lighting, floor treatments, and sparkling holiday decorations in the charming Southern Colonial house.

The Holiday Showhouse will be open December 1 through January 2 from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm daily and during the evenings from 6 pm to 9 pm of Lights in Bloom, December 16–23, 26 and 27. The Holiday Showhouse is included in the price of Selby Gardens admission.

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Lights in Bloom A Tropical Holiday Celebration December 16-23, 26 & 27 from 6 to 9 pm

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ast year’s all-new “Lights in Bloom” continues with even more delights! Stroll through magical gardens decked with brilliant light displays, including our twenty-foot bromeliad tree made up of over 450 live bromeliads. Live holiday music and a visit from Santa and his elves as well as children’s activities and games will please the entire family.

Tickets available December 1 online or at the Welcome Center 10 am to 5 pm.

“Lights in Bloom” Needs You! Preparation for “Lights in Bloom” is already underway, and we need volunteers to help us prepare by repairing and installing decorations in the Gardens. Need more details? Please contact Phyllis Kirtley, volunteer@selby.org or 941.366.5731 ext. 227.

The Tropical Dispatch  September–December 2011

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Spend Your Days in Paradise –Volunteer at the Gardens!

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elby Gardens volunteers enjoy special opportunities to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Gardens, learn about the amazing plant life, meet fascinating people, and do something that makes a real difference in our world.

Interested in learning more? Come to a no-obligation Volunteer Orientation, visit selby.org for information, or contact us at (941) 366-5731 ext. 227 or volunteer@selby.org.

Upcoming Volunteer Orientations: Monday, September 26, 2011 – 10:00 am to 1:00 pm Saturday, November 12, 2011 – 12:30 to 3:30 pm Tuesday, January 17, 2012 – 1:00 to 4:00 pm Thursday, April 19, 2012 - 1:00 to 4:00 pm

“Let nature be your teacher.”

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ome and see our new and improved Kids’ Corner! We’ve refreshed your favorite family corner and infused it with a monthly selection of nature crafts and activities. Explore the Gardens and then come in for an energizing break from the

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Kids’ Corner –William Wordsworth

weather. Grab a complimentary “Plant Hunt” game sheet and enjoy a walk through the Gardens while searching for plants of all shapes, sizes and colors. Now open seven days a week.

Legacy Society: Building a Legacy

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ver her 30 years as a volunteer, Mary Jane Fabik made a deep and abiding impact on Selby Gardens. She ensured that impact would continue well past her death by leaving a legacy of more than $120,000 to support the mission of the Gardens she loved.

Mary Jane and husband, Bob, started volunteering around 1980 after becoming Gardens members in 1976. They worked tirelessly on exhibits in the Museum of Botany and the Arts. “Mary Jane was totally committed to everything she did at

the Gardens,” says retired Selby volunteer coordinator Pam Eisele, one of the lucky few to penetrate Mary Jane’s quiet exterior.

“She was a spirit that will never leave me because she was so unique.”

After her husband’s death, Mary Jane joined Pep Ruddiman in a complex project: a major reorganization of the Gardens’ Research Library. “Mary Jane was a key member of our team of professional library volunteers,” says Selby’s Director of Plant Collections Bruce Holst. “She had a very inquisitive mind, and she liked to help out, and solve problems – she was just the perfect person for that role.” The value of the time and energy Mary Jane contributed to the Gardens is impossible to estimate.

Mary Jane was by no means wealthy, but she was able to make the gift of a lifetime upon her death. Those lucky enough to know

Mary Jane Fabik, far right, with fellow volunteers Melissa McDowell and Marge Schmiel

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her were deeply saddened by her passing in November, 2009. Her generosity ensures that an organization to which she contributed so much time, attention, and love will continue the work she so highly valued.

Want to Build Your Own Legacy?

Join the Marie Selby Legacy Society

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e invite you to become a member of the Marie Selby Legacy Society.

Let us know if you have designated a gift to ensure Selby Gardens’ future in your will so that we may honor you and acknowledge your generosity.

Members may also name the Gardens as a beneficiary of an insurance policy, retirement plan, or other planned gift.

Marie Selby Legacy Society members will enjoy special recognition.

For information about the Marie Selby Legacy Society, please contact Ann Logan, (941) 366-5731 ext. 266, alogan@selby.org, or visit selby.org.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

6th Annual Selby Instructors’ Summer Showcase Museum of Botany & the Arts Now through October 2, 2011 – 10:00 am to 4:30 pm daily

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Olivia Braida

Karen J. Schunk

Deborah Ross

Carolyn Merenda

Left to right: OliviaMixed Braida, Instructor, Academy of Botanical Arts; Media Instructor Zen Watercolor Instructor Watercolor Instructor Karen J. Schunk, Mixed Media Instructor; Deborah Ross, Zen Watercolor Instructor; and Carolyn Merenda, Watercolor Instructor.

June 9 to October 2

Open Daily 10:00 am - 4:30 pm

Instructor, Academy of Botanical Arts

Selby Gardens Instructors’ Summer Showcase

See these and many other Selby Gardens Instructors’ work on display at selby.org.

In the Museum of Botany & the Arts

n addition to the many horticultural classes throughout the year on various plant care and gardening related subjects, we also offer fun and diverse classes guaranteed to stimulate your creative side. The Academy of Botanical Arts offers a prestigious certificate program in Botanical Illustration. Other class subjects include Beading, Creative Writing, Gyotaku (fish prints), Ikebana (flower arranging), Nature Printing, Papermaking, Photography, Sumi-e, Tai Chi, Watercolor Painting, Wreath-making, Yoga and more.

This annual exhibit and sale showcases the artwork of many of Selby’s talented instructors and gives you a preview of the fun and interesting experiences awaiting you at the Gardens every week. You may have a chance to visit with one of the instructors and find out more about their classes on many of the 1st and 3rd Saturdays, from 1:00 to 2:30 pm.

For information on classes, see the class listings in the Tropical Dispatch, visit the Education page at selby.org or call 941-366-5731, ext. 239.

See these and many other Selby Gardens Instructors' work on display. Check our website for details.

Batiks Botánicos – A Painter’s Garden • Museum of Botany & the Arts www.selby.org October 7 – November 17, 2011 • 10 am to 4:30 pm daily

ngela Maria Isaza is an artist and architect who lives and works in Bogotá, Colombia. She has studied at Marymount College of Virginia, the University of Virginia, and considers Selby Gardens one of her favorite places to visit in the world. On a trip earlier this year, she returned to get inspiration for her fall exhibit. In walks through the Gardens, she observed and captured the beauty and diversity of tropical and exotic plants found here. Then, back at home, she turns them into botanical batiks, or “batiks botánicos.”

Batik is an old painting technique that originated in the East, a very laborious process that uses wax, dyes, and natural fiber cloth. This exotic technique serves well for Ms. Isaza’s personal vision and

interpretation of the mysterious growth of nature, resulting in a very natural artistic style.

9th Annual Watercolor Classes Exhibition Historic Selby House November 4, 2011 to January 18, 2012 10:00 am to 4:00 pm daily

Visitors will feel Ms. Isaza’s deep appreciation of nature just by viewing her expressive displays. This appreciation is not limited to the subject matter for her paintings, which invites people to enjoy the botanical world. It is a call to play a role in the conservation of fragile natural environments, their beauty and value.

In this new exhibit, Angela shares her latest colorful compositions of epiphytes (bromeliads and orchids). You will also see images of other interesting and attractive plants and flowering trees, including plants from our butterfly gardens.

Come and explore the beauty and wonder of these batiks and the Gardens that have inspired her!

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riginal watercolor paintings created by instructor Carolyn Merenda and her talented students will be on display and for sale in the historic Selby House. Familiar Selby landscapes and florals are represented as well a variety of beautiful images reflecting the interests of this diverse group of artists. Come and get inspired to sign up for a class or do some shopping. Original art makes a wonderful gift for someone on your list, including yourself!

The Tropical Dispatch  September–December 2011

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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

It’s the “Green” Thing to do – Join or Renew Online!

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ore and more Selby Gardens members are discovering the convenience of joining or renewing their memberships online. You instantly update your membership status and help us cut down on paper and postage costs.

Best of all, you can take care of your membership in advance, before coming to the Gardens. It’s easy: go to selby.org and click on Get Involved.

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Permit No. 509 Manasota, Florida

811 South Palm Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34236 www.selby.org

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“I Do” in a tropical Weddings S aybayfront setting here at Selby Gardens. Weddings may be held and anywhere on the grounds. Come see what we have to offer for Private and weddings and private events.

Events

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elby Gardens and Boost Studios designed a fabulous new 2012 Retail Wall Calendar. This new calendar is a photographic journey through the Gardens. These exquisite details will stay with you long after your visit to the Gardens. Proceeds from the calendar benefit the mission of Selby Gardens and is now on sale in the Garden Shop for $10.95. There is also a mini-calendar available for $3.99, a must-have. Bring home a piece of Selby for your office or home, and don’t forget your holiday gift list.

DR. ELLIOT LIVSTONE

The Garden Shop

find yourself a photographic journey through Selby Gardens

2012

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Selby Gardens Welcomes Boost Studio for their Major In-Kind Gift Contribution

S Left to right: Steve Boris, Christine Koch, Diane Creasy

hortly after coming on board as Director of Marketing, Diane Creasy was offered what every marketer dreams of – a design team wanting to make a contribution to Selby Gardens. This design team is Steve Boris and Christine Koch. Boost Studio has been tirelessly providing incredible graphics under Diane’s direction. You may have seen many of the event promotion pieces that contain our new look in our community. We thank Boost Studio for helping us to bring our brand identity to the high level it deserves.