Cold Hardy Palm: Jubaea chilensis (Chilean Wine Palm)

Since arriving in Vancouver about two weeks ago I've begun extensively researching cold hardy palms.  I've always been a fan of hardy tropical looking plants so I'm unbelievably excited!  I've seen two common varieties here; Trachycarpus fortunei and Chamaerops humilis.  Although I've already grabbed seeds from a Trachy and started soaking them (only about 50), I've come up with a list of nearly 20 other hardy or potentially hardy candidates.

The one I am most interested in now is Jubaea chilensis or the Chilean Wine Palm.  The name comes from the sweet sap that can be boiled into something similar to corn syrup or fermented into alcohol (unfortunately the tree is often cut down to gather it).  It also produces orange fruits known as coquitos.  These can be eaten fresh or turned into jam.

The seeds themselves are also edible.  Apparently they taste almost identical to coconuts.  The image below is from Dave's Garden, a very informative site worth a look.  There is a reference in the upper left hand corner of the image but it is difficult to see.  Can you believe this can grown unprotected in Canada?

This palm is considered a giant by many.  It may grow taller than 25m (82ft).  The growth rate is apparently slow for the first 15 years or so but it then moderate under good conditions.  Adult trunks may be 1m (3ft) in diameter and I've seen 2m monsters mentioned while searching.

This lovely giant is marked for USDA zones 8/9 (up to 10b depending on the source, also one person in 7b).  I know of at least one person growing it on Vancouver Island (not to be confused with Vancouver the city).  It has had no special protection and has grown fine.  I have seen many cases of the plant surviving -15C (5F).  To add to this cold hardiness, Jubaea chilensis also prefers a cooler climate and doesn't mind moisture (perfect for Vancouver).  It does however hate salt spray and must be located away from the coast.  Good drainage is also a necessity.

All that being said, I want one.  I'll keep an eye open for the fruit in stores.  Every supplier I've seen either has ridiculous prices, won't ship to Canada or has a minimal order value.  I say nay!  If anyone knows a good supplier please let me know.  Although they are native to Chile, some have been planted in California and that is where the majority of the seeds appear to come from.  I may have found a good Canadian source I'm just waiting for an email response.  Thanks to anyone that can help!

Compost & Plant Heat Generation?

It is beautiful today (17C, 63F) and the sun is shining.  I went on a walk but didn't take any pictures because the Municipal Gardens look just like they did last time I posted.  This maybe an odd request but does anyone know where I can find good detailed information on heat production through compost decomposition?  I'm also curious about the heat released by plants through metabolism. 

More specifically, I'm curious about things like compost composition, changes in heat production with time, and the influence of exterior temperatures, water, and the addition of various microbes or other catalysts.  I would also like to know what studies have been done on the heat generated by plants.  Thing such as specific species that generate higher temperatures and maybe information on typical heat expenditure per biomass of plant.

I have no idea if anyone has any good resources.  Usually I can find things very quickly.  I'm having the most trouble finding info on heat generated from plants themselves.  Even if you could just suggest search terms, or maybe databases.  I'm not looking for theoretical stuff but actual numbers from studies.  Thanks for any help you can give!!

Mystery Plants...

There are several plants that I've taken pictures of that were missing tags. If anyone can help me identify them I would really appreciate it!

I'm not sure if this first one is a variety of Aeschynanthus. It has these red tube-like flowers on a vining plant. New growth is green but fads to a deep purple with time.

This next plant is an ephiphyte. The flowers resemble an orchid but it has segmented stems.

The next plant is currently the size of a small shrub but looks as though it may eventual grow into a small to medium sized tree. It has many long slender branches as well as variegated foliage. There are also small flowers which begin as green and turn yellow as they age.



This final plant is located outside. I know I've seen it before but I can't for the life of me remember its name.

Moringa stenopetala

I'm hoping to get a hold of some Moringa stenopetala seeds. If anyone knows a good source I would greatly appreciate the information. I've only been able to find one provider online and the prices seem a little high. Thanks to anyone that can help!

Update: I couldn't help it and and ended up purchasing them... They should arrive in a few weeks.