It's been 2 long years since work brought me back to beautiful Maui. This time I stayed a bit north of Lahaina where it is much more quiet. The Plumeria trees were so large and mature! There were so many plants that I didn't recognize simply because they were like giant mutants! Gorgeous! Simply gorgeous!! The nice things is, I get to go back!!


HUGE old plumeria:



Trunk of a ficus elastica:


Giant clump of Giant Bird of Paradise:


Humungous Pride of Barbados:


Me. I got whiplash after taking this shot!!

Great pictures. I think your 'Bird of Paradise' is actually Ravenala madegascariensis or Traveler's Palm. They are of course in the same family.

Thanks, Hetti. I can never tell the difference between the two.

Love those majestic great trees! Thanks for the photos!
Whiplash or not..still looks good..very artsy

You need to go 'foraging" and mail a few plummies back to yourself. Oh, I miss Hawaii so much!

Enjoyed your pictures!

Tarev, It took me a long while to figure out that Rubber Tree Plant! It was gigantic! The fallen leaves is what gave it away. It sure looked different being out of a living room and in the ground!


I've thought about that, Sandy. But those trees are huuuuge~ I would have to climb them to get a cutting. But I won't let that stop me...maybe late at night? Leafless sticks look just like my suitcase frame in the Xrays. I managed to bring some sand home. My plumeria love it in the soil mix when they get new pots. That is legal to bring home. Heavy, but legal.

Ask anyone for plumeria cuttings, most people are happy to share. Then take them to your place, wash them well and find a box to fit them in. Take this open box to the USDA station at the airport before you leave, they will inspect the cuttings and seal the box for you and you can then either take it on the plane or mail it to yourself.

This is not a lengthy or complicated procedure and protects the agriculture from unwanted pests that might otherwise be transferred.