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Find The Exotic At USF Plant Fairs

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 14, 2008

The Tropical Plant Fair at the University of South Florida is a great place to find truly exotic plants, along with classic solid performers for Central Florida. I found plenty of both at last month's event.

Three of the four showcased here I had never before seen. The mini pineapple and white shrimp are as fascinating as side-show oddities, and the Duranta is just plain pretty.

The desert roses captivated simply because they were blooming. Mine hasn't bloomed since my sister gave it to me a few months ago. Thankfully, another bonus of the plant fairs at USF's Botanical Gardens is the vendors, who are knowledgeable and willing to answer questions forever. (I was told to try more sun and fertilizer. Just last week I discovered five flower buds!)

Although the tropical vendors won't return to USF till next summer, the garden hosts some smaller, free events in the weeks ahead. On Aug. 30 and 31, check out the Central Florida Cactus & Succulent Society's show and sale, and on Sept. 12 and 13, the Gesneriad Celebration.

For information call (813) 655-1175.

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