Hi Carol,

I am looking for plain old aralia (Polyscias balfouriana). Any idea of where I can find some in Martin County? Cuttings would also be just fine. I am also trying to find the old crotons from the 30's thru the 50's. I would be happy to purchase them or I can go by some ones yard and do some air layering.

I really enjoy your column.

Thank You,
Terry

Hello Terry,
The old fashion aralias, Polyscias balfouriana and others, are grown as house plants and you should be able to find them at any of the local nurseries in the foliage section.

As to the old crotons, you best bet is probably Dr. Brown at Valkaria Gardens up in Valkaria, Fl (Brevard County). Valkaria Tropical Garden is owned and operated by Dr. Frank Brown plant collector, hybridizer, and educator extraordinaire. His private garden contains a large collection of tropical plants including crotons that Dr. Brown collected and hybridized. This nursery is not open regularly, selected weekends only, but does have an event coming up soon.

April 12-13
8:30 am -4:30 pm. Valkaria Tropical Gardens Spring Opening & Plant Extravaganza. Exotic tropicals, many bamboo varieties & colorful, newly-introduced plants. Free admission. Take I-95 south of Melbourne to Exit 70 (Malabar Rd). Go east 2.5 miles to Corey Rd, turn right, drive 3 miles. (321)768-1597, valkariatg@aol.com

Happy Gardening,
Carol