Helxine soleiroli, baby’s tears—a delightful little crawler
Its blooming habits have always delighted me, and it is a prolific bloomer come summer. The verbena-like flowers open pink or yellow and later darken to red or orange. Often several different shades will be found on the same plant at the same time.
CARE. Moderate greenhouse temperatures, or out of doors in the summer. Needs fresh air, loamy garden soil, bright light, and does best on the dry side.
PROPAGATION. Cuttings and seed.
SPECIAL USES. House plant, pots, and containers.
Malpighia coccigera Malpighiaceae Miniature Holly
Small glossy leaves sharply toothed like holly, and adorable as a foliage plant, but in addition provides the sweetest white-pink blooms which in its native West Indies produce red, edible fruit rich in vitamin C.
CARE. Partial sun, warmth, humusy soil, moist.
PROPAGATION. Stem cuttings.
SPECIAL USES. House plant, indoor bonsai.