Alan W. Meerow

Specialist

Publications

Field Production of Palms

Timothy K. Broschat, Alan W. Meerow, and Jack Miller

Field production is the most practical means of producing large palm specimens, and it has several advantages over container production. Yield per acre can be maximized compared to many other woody ornamentals because of the columnar growth habit of most palms and their ability to survive transplanting with a minimal root ball. When dug and tied properly, many more palms can be loaded into a standard shipping container than could similarly sized trees. Palms also offer great versatility in the method of field harvesting.

Heliconia caribaea Caribbean Heliconia, Wild Plantain

Edward F. Gilman and Alan Meerow

This document provides a detailed description of the wild plantain, also known as Caribbean heliconia (Heliconia caribaea). It is an herbaceous perennial with large, leathery leaves and showy flowers, suitable for tropical gardens and indoor decoration. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10B through 11, preferring fertile, moist soil and partial to full sun. It can grow up to 15 feet tall and is propagated by division of matted clumps. While it has outstanding ornamental features, it is sensitive to pests and diseases such as leaf spots, scales, and nematodes. The document also highlights its moderate drought and soil salt tolerance. Original publication date October 1999.

Native Trees for South Florida

A. W. Meerow, T. K. Broschat, and H. M. Donselman

In recent years, the subject of native plants has taken on new significance in Florida horticulture. Many counties are considering landscape ordinances that require that a percentage of native plant materials be used in all future developments. Several have already implemented such ordinances. This will result in a need for wider availability of native plant materials. Woody landscape plant producers, landscape architects, and home gardeners in Florida need to become informed about and prepared for the production and cultural needs of native plants.

Container Production of Palms

Alan W. Meerow and Timothy K. Broschat

This document summarizes all the good practices for growing palms in containers. Container-grown palms are raised for essentially three markets: liners for field production wholesale or mass market retail sales for landscapes, and interior specimens, both mass market houseplants and interiorscape use. The largest market for container grown palms is the interior. Palms are outstanding plants for the interior environment. When properly acclimated, a large number of subtropical and tropical palm species are capable of residing under low light conditions for a relatively long period of time.

Heliconia spp. Heliconia

Edward F. Gilman, Alan Meerow, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the Heliconia species, highlighting their characteristics, growth habits, and uses. Heliconias are herbaceous plants native to rainforests, known for their vibrant bracts and suitability as tropical cut flowers. They range in height from 2 to 15 feet and thrive in USDA hardiness zones 10B through 11. The plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, with moderate drought and salt tolerance. While they are not invasive, their aggressive spreading nature requires careful management. Heliconias are valued for their ornamental features and can be propagated by division. Original publication date October 1999.

Palm Seed Germination

Alan W. Meerow and Timothy K. Broschat

The purpose of this publication is to outline and discuss the various aspects of handling and germinating palm seeds in the most cost-effective and reliable manner possible.

Enviroscaping to Conserve Energy: Trees for South Florida

Timothy K. Broschat, Alan W. Meerow, and Robert J. Black

Landscape plants can improve the appearance of our surroundings and modify the extremes of local climate (microclimate modification). Plants provide shade, insulate the home from heat loss or gain, and cool the air that surrounds their leaves through transpiration (release of water from plant pores). Trees are the main types of landscape plants used around the home for passive energy conservation. They provide shade, influence air movement around the house and, once established, require little maintenance. The energy-conserving impact of a particular tree species depends on 1) whether it keeps its leaves during the winter and 2) the shape of a tree and density of its foliage. This document is about choosing the right species of trees to plant in Florida, the sites to plant them, and how to properly maintain them.

Royal Palm Bug, Xylastodoris luteolus Barber (Insecta: Hemiptera: Thaumastocoridae)

T. J. Weissling, F. W. Howard, and A. W. Meerow

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences.

Hamelia patens Firebush, Scarlet Bush

Edward F. Gilman, Alan Meerow, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the firebush (Hamelia patens), a large, soft-stemmed shrub native to Florida. It details the plant’s physical characteristics, including its height, spread, and distinctive orange-red flowers. The firebush is noted for its fast growth rate, evergreen leaves, and year-round flowering. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11 and is tolerant of various soil types and conditions. The document also highlights the plant’s uses in landscaping, its attractiveness to hummingbirds and butterflies, and its moderate drought tolerance. Additionally, it discusses propagation methods and potential pest issues. Original publication date October 1999.

Pachystachys lutea Golden Shrimp Plant

Edward F. Gilman, Alan Meerow, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the golden shrimp plant (Pachystachys lutea), a tropical shrub known for its bright yellow bracts and white flowers. It details the plant’s characteristics, including its height, spread, leaf arrangement, and flowering habits. The document also covers the plant’s growing requirements, such as light, soil, and temperature preferences, and offers guidance on propagation and maintenance. Additionally, it highlights the plant’s uses in landscaping and its susceptibility to pests like scales and spider mites. Original publication date October 1999.

Heliconia rostrata Lobster Claw

Edward F. Gilman, Alan Meerow, Ryan W. Klein, and Gail Hansen

This document provides an overview of the Heliconia rostrata, commonly known as lobster claw or false bird of paradise. It describes the plant’s physical characteristics, including its leathery, dark green leaves and striking scarlet and yellow bracts. The plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10B through 11 and is suitable for tropical gardens and indoor decoration. It requires fertile, moist soil and regular fertilization for optimal growth. The document also highlights the plant’s moderate drought and soil salt tolerance, as well as its susceptibility to certain pests and diseases. Propagation is typically done by division of the matted clumps. Original publication date October 1999.