Artie, I know the place well, I use to work for them in their gardens. Yes the two of them have created a most amazing garden with a wide selection of species, both rainforest plants and sclerophyll natives. As they have deep basalt soils and are situated on a slight ridge within a protected subtropical valley with high rainfall they can grow not only tropical rainforest plants but also natives from 'drier' conditions. The well drained soils allow for Kangaroo Paws, Grevillea's, Telopea's, Banksias to do very well. Some of the rainforest species originally sourced from NQ are among the oldest of known cultivated specimens, outide of the tropics or even within the tropics where they originate. The owners have been able to cultivate some species which I have had trouble with, even though my fathers garden (where I have my collection) is only 50km as the crow flys from this place. Places like this allow others to be inspired to do likewise. Kris

beautiful,is it called Vireya gardenia. The scented ones are an added bonus. Heather

Note: July meeting is NOT at the community center (can't edit original post). Not really sure where it will be. and forgot to mention, free vireya trusses (cuttings) at the meeting, with many people eager to tell you how to make them thrive!

updated 2015 meeting schedule: ¨ Oct. 18th. Zoo Outreach Day and work party 10am - 2pm. Truss and plant giveaway at the Pana'ewa Zoo. FREE PLANTS IN A PUBLIC PLACE! ¨ Nov 15 Kea'au Community Center 12 noon What's that bug? Speaker Bill Miller 2016 ¨ January 17 - Kea'au Community Center - Speaker TBD ¨ February 20 - Hilo Library Outreach - SATURDAY meeting 0900-1200 Truss and plant giveaway FREE PLANTS IN A PUBLIC PLACE! ¨ March 20 - Kea'au Community Center - Speaker TBD