THETHE MONTGOMERYMONTGOMERY NEWSNEWS Newsletter of Montgomery Botanical Center VOL. VOL. 12 NO. 1 SPRING SPRING 2004 WhoWho WeWe AreAre Terrence Walters, Ph.D. Executive Director

Lee Anderson Manager, Horticulture & Facilities Mary Andrews Manager, Development & Communications A Botanical Garden Charles Bauduy Assistant Palm Horticulturist Jack Bauer Facilities Supervisor Barbara Bohnsack Built for Science Field Supervisor Mario Borroto Landscaper Terrence Walters, Ph.D. Juan Corona MBC Executive Director Equipment Specialist Orlando Coy Grounds Supervisor Stella Cuestas Assistant Cycad Horticulturist Laurie Danielson Palm Horticulturist Abbie Dasher Landscaper Willy Dye Landscaper Christine Emshousen Cycad Horticulturist Jody Haynes Cycad Biologist Barbara Judd Nursery Horticulturist Judith Kay Seedbank Coordinator Martha Lagos Housekeeper Scott Massey Dicot Horticulturist Vickie Murphy Assistant Palm Horticulturist Larry Noblick, Ph.D. Manager, Collections Development Palm Biologist Willie Payne Landscaper Jessie Pender Landscaper Annamaria Richcreek Administrator Randy Russ Landscaper Arantza Strader Database Assistant Ansel Thomas Irrigation Specialist Hostilio Torres This population of Caryota gigas in the MBC collection not only provides an attractive visual Equipment Operator Marino Valcourt presentation of shapes and textures, but, along with its associated data, is far more valuable Irrigation Technician to researchers than if just one or two representatives of the species were available. Laura Vasquez Field Specialist Evelyn Young Manager, Administration Volunteer Coordinator During each MBC garden tour, when a group of interest, whether they are oaks, introducing our scientifically valuable roses, orchids, or palms. In many cases, the The Montgomery News population-based collection, I’m frequent- specimens lacked any associated prov- is published twice a year by Montgomery Botanical Center, ly asked to explain, first, just what that enance data and were obtained from a a nonprofit private institution of science long phrase means—followed immediately single (and not necessarily representative) specializing in tropical research with, “How are Montgomery Botanical population of the species. Gardens devel- collections emphasizing palms and cycads. Center’s collections different from those oped these types of collections for the typi- Editor and Designer in the familiar botanical display garden?” cal garden viewer interested in seeing the Mary Andrews It is a common confusion even among diversity among species within a specific 11901 Old Cutler Road; Miami, FL 33156 informed botanical enthusiasts. plant family. 305-667-3800 fax 305-661-5984 Historically, botanical gardens develop [email protected] Montgomery Botanical Center has a www.montgomerybotanical.org their important collections by obtaining very different mission than most botani- a few specimens of each species within cal gardens, as set forth by its founder, Nell Operating hours: M-F, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 2 spring grown from seeds collected in the Since 1995 MBC has been mount- wild in an ex-situ botanical collection. But ing three to five expeditions per year to a study based on just a few representative tropical regions of the world to obtain the samples is not enough. For research to be required propagules for our collections. In valid, the provenance of the seeds must be 1996, the MBC team planted our first pop- established by having comprehensive visual ulation-based assemblage. We have contin- and written field data collected along with ued to add approximately 50 population the seeds, and have that information read- samples annually, typically consisting of ily available in a database. Samples obtained 12–15 individuals each, to systematically from multiple populations—groups of indi- increase the number and diversity of acces- viduals spatially isolated from other group- sions required for study by researchers. ings of the same species—provide even Also of scientific importance is where more information to the scientist. populations are collected within the geo- A plant species can consist of one to graphic range. In the wild, populations at hundreds of populations; each population the extremes of a species’ distribution are can consist of one to literally thousands of often under different sets of environmen- individuals. A genetically distinct individual tal pressures, and therefore are likely to within a population grows, develops, repro- possess unique, genetically-based, adap- duces, and dies; however, it does not evolve. tive qualities. Evolution, as we understand it today, occurs If the conspecific populations are too in the genetic variation among the individ- numerous to feasibly collect, we strive to uals within a population through many sample those populations at the geograph- generations. ic extremes of the species’ range as well as One of the evolutionary changes that at least one sample from deep within the can occur in a population is speciation, range. In this way, we endeavor to repre- the development of a new species. For sent as much of the genetic diversity with- example, a particularly isolated and distant in a species as possible—genetic diver- population might be subjected to extreme sity that is vital for evolutionary research, environmental changes not experienced teaching, and species conservation. by other conspecific (same-species) pop- Today, with hundreds of wild-collect- ulations. Although many and their ed, extensively-documented population offspring fail to thrive under the new envi- samples of palms and cycads growing at ronmental pressures, some individuals will MBC, the significance, value, and impor- breed with other genetically distinct indi- tance of these collections to the interna- viduals to produce progeny with genetic tional botanical community are becom- coding for physical and physiological traits ing clear. Dr. John Donaldson, Research necessary to survive more successfully in Director of South Africa’s Kirstenbosch the new environment. This process of adap- Botanic Gardens, recently observed that tation causes the population to diverge “Montgomery Botanical Center has been at genetically from other conspecific popula- the forefront of efforts to build up off-site tions and sometimes marks the beginning collections of cycad species.” of a new species. Researchers from around the globe A sampling of only one or a few speci- recognize MBC as a primary source for mens from a population does not represent experimental plant material. We are able the genetic diversity within the population, to provide them with quality material their let alone the diversity within the entire research demands. Educators interested Montgomery Jennings. species. To uncover, or just to understand in demonstrating conservation-quality off- MBC is an institution that the diversity and evolution of plant life, site collections, characteristics of popula- directs its resources toward the research must be undertaken at the popu- tion biology, and techniques for taxonomic scientific and educational usage lation level. studies have been enthusiastically access- of our collections by researchers, In 1994 the MBC team identified the ing MBC’s population-based collections. educators, and students. type of collections needed by researchers Even the public, who has learned of our Researchers have very specific and made the long-term decision to devel- unique collections, is clamoring for more needs that differ greatly from casual op the highest quality, scientifically useful, on-site tours. It is heartening to know that garden visitors. They require samples population-based palm and cycad collec- MBC offers something for all those who from wild material. If it isn’t feasi- tions in the world. This focus meant we want to see and use the type of conser- ble to access plants in their natu- needed to enhance the existing collections vation and research collections that will ral habitat (in situ), a very close by obtaining wild documented seeds from improve our ability to understand and pre- alternative is to use their off- multiple populations of each species. serve the earth’s diversity. ■

3 COLLECTIONS DEVELOPMENT ON EXPEDITION In Search of Lilliputian Palms Museum of Natural History of , Larry Noblick, Ph.D. we finally got permission to collect in the MBC Collections Development Manager and Palm Biologist reserve after weeks of paperwork, phone calls, and several trips to the permitting office. What we thought would be a short, wrap-up visit to pick up our papers turned into two long days of bureaucratic back and forth. But frustration quickly turned into a sense of good fortune. While impatiently waiting for the per- mits, heavy rains had turned the roads into an impassible quagmire of clay. If we had left when first planned, we would have ended up worming our vehicle through a seemingly giant bowl of chocolate pud- ding. By the time we hit the roads they were dry enough so we negotiated easily around large trucks still deeply buried up to their axles—although, admittedly, we drove with the four-wheel drive engaged for most of the 300 kilometers to the Reserve’s overnight accommodations. We made good progress, arriving at dusk in Mbaracayú Reserve guide, Eligio Fariña, examines hidden in the time to meet the resident biologist, Rosalia grass that it mimics. The inset above shows the developing palm fruits growing Fariña, and our guide, Eligio, and get settled from what otherwise looks like a grass spike. in for the night. The next day we headed out to Aguara Ñu, the largest region in the Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels was lilliputiana (note the name) 155,000-acre reserve, to search for those always one of my favorite books, especially and Butia campicola were both col- elusive small palms. We easily located the tale of Lilliputia, that miniature king- lected in Paraguay by Swiss botanist groups of the taller palms: the common dom of tiny people, undersized buildings, Emile Hassler in the Sierra de Mbaracayú Syagrus romanzoffiana at the edge of and small forest trees (though I can’t recall between 1898-1899. It was next collected the moist forest, some of the most mas- any mention of little palms). Apparently 97 years later by Belen Jiménez during sive stands of I Gulliver never made it to South America, his exploration of one of Paraguay’s new- have ever seen, and several populations because I’ve found in my own travels some est reserves, the Mbaracayú Natural Forest of Allagoptera leucocalyx, but none of the of the planet’s smallest palms hidden in Reserve. Similarly, Butia leptospatha was knee-high B. campicola or S. lilliputiana. the grasslands of and Paraguay. first—and last—collected in 1936 in the Although I had the first collector’s exact Not known to be native to other parts grasslands of Brazil, coordinates for the species, they turned of the world, most of these diminutive and not far from Paraguay. out to be completely erroneous (bad GPS fascinating palms share similar character- Nine years ago, I discovered a new readings or U.S. scrambled satellite data). istics: a short subterranean trunk with grasslike species in a national park in With all our high-tech devices, it was sheer some leaves often spreading out horizon- Goias, Brazil. Two years later, I hiked across luck and perhaps a bit of divine interven- tally near the ground. Other long, narrow a Paraguayan cerrado with a botanist who tion that finally came through. While look- leaflets stand erect, mimicking patches showed me a then unnamed Butia hidden ing for species of Allagoptera, we chanced of the native grasses among which they among the grasses. Recently, I collected yet upon populations of S. lilliputiana, along grow. Even the inflorescence that often another new species of similar habit grow- with the diminutive Acrocomia hassleri. extends upright beyond the low woody ing on the Paraguay/Brazil border. All were Thrilling as the discovery was, we still bract looks very grasslike—until the spiky small, visually camouflaged, and rare. had yet to locate B. campicola. As Pilu and flowering cluster yields its very recogniz- I’ve spent the better part of 12 years I were returning to the reserve complex able, grape-sized palm fruits. There is at conducting research on Cocosoid palms toward the end of the day, thinking our bit least one evolutionary advantage of this and came to a point when I needed some of luck had run its course, we happened subterranean grasslike habit. Because the of these small species to complete a matrix to spot some ripe Allagoptera leucocalyx tender growing bud is so well protected of characters for analysis. So while prepar- fruit. Amazingly, we parked right in front below ground level, the plant easily sur- ing for my 2002 Paraguay expedition, I pur- of some very suspicious looking grass that, vives fast-burning ground fires or extended sued, with determination, a collecting per- yes, turned out to be a population of our periods of drought. But their low grasslike mit for the Mbaracayú Reserve to follow in elusive Butia campicola. habit doesn’t make them easy to locate; the footsteps of the researcher, Jiménez. A few days later we left the Mbaracayú some species have gone almost a century Working with my good friend and expe- Reserve to head north towards Ypé Yhú between collections. dition partner, Tomas (Pilu) Rios, out of the on the Brazilian border. The road was so

4 COLLECTIONS DEVELOPMENT ON EXPEDITION

bad, gas tankers were unable to reach this into grandiose, uninhabited, nearly tree- in botany, and certainly not in my cur- region of Paraguay, leaving every service less and shrubless plains—a natural cam- rent research. The Butia species continue station dry. To get a fill-up, we had to go to pos, with deep sandy soils, and no visible to cluster together in all of my computer Brazil, crossing a border defined by a rut- surface water. There is marvelous and most analyses, but the most fascinating thing is ted dirt lane in Paraguay abruptly chang- interesting flora in this area rich in ankle- the sequence in which they group. Analysis ing into a smooth two-lane asphalted road to knee-high Allagoptera campestris, after analysis indicates that the entire genus with gleaming white concrete curbs in native grasses, sedges, and flowering trees. may have originated from Lilliputian, grass- Brazil. It was more like passing through a Camouflaged among the grass and other like ancestors that are closely related to all time barrier than an international border. small, interesting plant life was hidden of my Brazilian/Paraguayan Lilliputian palm Our journey continued from Ypé Yhú yet another unique species of Butia new acquaintances: Butia campicola, Butia lep- to Capitão Bado, encountering the chal- to science, again Lilliputian in size, resem- tospatha, and the three other newly discov- lenging sandy roads along the top of the bling its other grasslike relatives. ered species in that genus. In a real sense Sierra de Amambay at an elevation of about I came away from the expedition with these small, hard-to-see species have been 420 meters. After driving for little more some questions answered, but new ques- key in understanding Butia and under- than 40 kilometers, things really began tions yet to tackle. I learned that small does standing where and how the genus may to get interesting. The region opened up not mean unimportant or inconsequential have originated. ■

The Amazing Tree Dioons of Honduras Jody Haynes, MBC Cycad Biologist Author Jody Haynes is dwarfed by a 36- foot Dioon mejiae in the wilds of Honduras.

The photo was captured by colleague, Mark Bonta, with a digital camera pur- The “tree Dioons” represent a unique and chased through a generous grant from the intriguing assemblage of three related New Central Florida Palm & Cycad Society. World cycad species. Their nickname comes from their resemblance to a stereotypical palm tree—well-developed trunks, impres- goals of our expedition was to prove that the sive proportions, and long arching leaves. published information on D. mejiae is grossly The largest is Dioon spinulosum, native inaccurate—and we succeeded in doing so to southeastern Mexico. It is the tallest of beyond our wildest expectations. the New World cycads and the second tall- During the 30-day expedition, my col- est cycad species in the world, with some league, Dr. Mark Bonta, and I visited more specimens soaring to more than 50 feet. than 20 populations of D. mejiae in the The second tree Dioon is D. rzedowskii, provinces of Olancho and Yoro in east- which grows in the same general area of central Honduras. Our first surprise was plants from the older accession currently Mexico but in a dramatically different habi- the sheer number of plants in the wild. We has about two feet of exposed trunk. Doing tat. Specimens have been reported to grow conservatively estimated over 600,000 wild the math yields a growth rate of approxi- to 16 feet in habitat. plants—including two “super-populations” mately seven feet per century under care- I recently had the exciting opportunity containing more than 100,000 plants each. ful cultivation. Conversely, plants in door- to get up close and personal with the third Our discovery makes D. mejiae the most yard gardens in Juticalpa, Honduras, grow tree Dioon, D. mejiae, during MBC’s 2003 numerous of any cycad species growing in at a rate of only 2.3 feet per century. Honduran Cycad Expedition. the wild—though none-the-less worthy of Using the latter growth rate to estimate Dioon mejiae is the only Central diligent preservation. Our second surprise age for plants growing in habitat, the awe- American representative of an otherwise was encountering spectacularly large speci- some tree Dioons growing at Teocintalito, Mexican genus. A native of Honduras, it was mens—many reaching at least 36 feet tall! Honduras, might have been young seed- described in 1950 from an immature culti- Estimating their age took some interest- lings in 600 A.D., just about the time the vated plant. Its formal description—and all ing extrapolation. Prior to this expedition, Roman Empire was coming to a close. subsequent published reports on this spe- MBC had a total of 39 plants of D. mejiae in Standing in the shadows of this ancient cies—states that D. mejiae occurs in a single the Grounds Cycad Collection, represent- giant was a truly amazing experience. And dry, rocky canyon near Olanchito, Honduras; ing only two accessions—one collected as isn’t it great to know that it will only take that its trunk grows to only three feet; and seed in 1976 and the other donated to MBC about 450 years for these plants to reach that it is rare in habitat. One of the primary as small plants in 1993. The largest of the that height here at MBC! ■

5 COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS New Large-Capacity Sprayer Gives Boost to Palm Program In the shade of the taller Thrinax radiata, Assistant Horticulturist n just eight years, Montgomery Botanical I Vickie Murphy delivers Center has more than doubled the number micronutrients to of plants in the ground. Current totals several populations of exceed 10,600 accessioned plants in three Chamadorea palms with major collections across 120 acres. MBC’s new large-capacity One of the largest and fastest develop- sprayer purchased with ing programs is MBC’s palm collection, a grant from The South accounting for more than half of all MBC Florida Palm Society. plants. The Palm team has grown in tandem to include a palm scientist, three full-time palm horticulturists, two volunteers, and the support of the rest of the MBC team. A multipurpose piece of equipment, the respond immediately to everything from freez- With plans underway to add an average sprayer is needed for micronutrient foliar ing and drought to targeted pest control.” of 600 palms annually over the next five feedings as well as protective drench appli- It didn’t take long for the palm team to years, MBC especially welcomed a grant cations. MBC Palm Horticulturist Laurie get the sprayer into action. Within a week, from The South Florida Palm Society to Danielson was especially enthusiastic when the team not only had it out doing its job purchase a 300-gallon sprayer dedicated to the sprayer was delivered. “With a full-time but came up with creative modifications to the Palm Program. sprayer available for palms, we can now make the sprayer even more useful. ■

Quick Takes Arnold Arboretum, MA MBC for NYBG InstitutionsInstitutions andand Bogor Botanic Garden, Indonesia Darrin Duling, Curator of Glasshouse Collections, New York Botanic Gardens of Adelaide, Australia Botanical Gardens, toured the grounds and reviewed our data- Organizations Brazil Botanical Garden base, mapping, and labeling protocols, as well as visited with Center for Natural Product Research, staff to learn about MBC’s collections management and horti- University of Mississippi cultural practices. He anticipates applying some of what he has Benefiting Central Florida Palm and Cycad Society learned when NYBG completes their new propagation facilities Charles University, Prague that will allow them to increase their palm and cycad collec- from MBC City of Coral Gables, FL tions under enhanced growing conditions. City University of New York Coastal Research and Extension Center, Fakahatchee Redux Whether it was Mississippi State University Dr. Larry Noblick collected native seeds in the Fakahatchee participation in our Colorado State University Strand Preserve in 2001 for MBC’s collection. Now as healthy, Columbia University, NY mature palms, four groups of Roystonea regia and two groups Seedbank Program, Coral Gables Fire Department, FL of Acoelorraphe wrightii have been returned to the park as part scientific research, Cornell University, NY of their native plant restoration project. Because MBC had Deering Estate, Miami-Dade Park and detailed data about their parentage and horticultural data, the educational Recreation, FL park biologists could be confident that the palms were authen- Delta State University, MS tically native to the area. opportunities, or Department of Environmental

community projects, Resources Management (DERM), FL Operation Cycad Photo DERM: Adopt-a-Tree Program It may be horrid if you can’t get a MBC is proud to Dolmetsch Arboretum, Colombia photo of a “horridus” but when have benefited the Eden Project, United Kingdom the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Everglades National Park, FL Gardens were running the story following institutions Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, FL “Operation Cycad” about their acquisition of Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park, FL and organizations confiscated plants, their staff were hard pressed Flamingo Gardens, FL to find a good image of the Encephalartos hor- during 2003. Florida Engineering Society ridus. But after a search on the internet, they Florida International University found MBC. The picture Florida Nurserymen & Growers was sent, the news Association item ran, and Ganna Walska Lotusland, CA the story had a happy ending.

6 National Science Foundation Haynes, Jody for yourThanksThanks support in 2003! The South Florida Kpalms Nursery Palm Society (Rolf Kyburz) The Executive Director, managers, and the entire MBC team wish to acknowledge the following GOODS AND SERVICES Pearson, Stephen individuals, foundations, companies, and associations who help make a difference. Andrews, Mary Schutzman, Bart Anné, Martin The Cycad Center The Kampong Banyan Tree Service FINANCIAL Ebsary, Richard Moore, Randy Downriver Management Whitelock, Eva Besse, Libby CONTRIBUTIONS: Emshousen, Christine Noblick, Florence General Mills Foundation and Loran INDIVIDUALS Fessenden, Lillian Ortega, Javier Kelly Foundation Biggane, Jackie Andrews, Barbara Gardener, Theodore Page, Dr. Ray and Dolmarie Living Cycads Bonta, Mark ON-SITE Andrews, Marcia Goldstein, Joy and Larry Pearson, Stephen Palm Beach Palm & Broome, Tom VOLUNTEERS Andrews, Mary Goldweber, Leona and Randolph, Lynda Cycad Society (The Cycad Jungle) Adams, Molly Baltin, Sylvia and Lee Seymour Reynolds, Jean and Charles Pineapple Press (June Caceres, Hector Aronson, Larry Besse, Libby Gregory, Tim Roberts, Susan and Alfred Cussen) Banks, Duane Bressler, Judith and Richard Corman, Murray and Debbie Hamann, Debra and Gregg Rowlands, Suzanne and C.P. Smiley & Associates Bell, Ed Brown, Edwin II (Garden of Delights ) Haynes, Marion Sacher, Dorothy and Charles P. Southeastern Land & Bernstein, Harvey Brown, Joan Appraisal Corp. Fairchild Tropical Garden Haynes, Walter Smith, Kathleen Brown, Sally Stamps Family Charitable Florida Gardening Press Boutelle, Elise Hemmes, Don Stark, Jean and Eugene Brusberg, Marian Jennings Foundation, Inc. Gregory, Tim Biggane, Jackie Hibbard, Joseph Sternberg, Karen and Paul Brusseau, Christine and Jeffry Byrholdt, Katherine Hicks, Patricia and Charles Thomas, Jessica IN HONOR OF Hardy, Cyril Burtscher, Judy and Robert Caroni, Paula Hutchinson, Joan and James Whitelock, Eva and Loran WALTER HAYNES AND Haynes, Kim and Jody Byrholdt, Katherine TERRENCE WALTERS Cousins, Randy Ironmonger, Suzi and Bruce Wilson, Jane Herrero, Pepe Cortner, Betty and Mark Beaty, Terry Johnson, Beverley Wright, Jim Hutchinson, Mayna Douglas, Bettye Crane, Jonathan Kelly, Barbara and Nick IN HONOR OF Ironmonger, Suzi and Bruce Ferro, Diana Curry, Louise FINANCIAL Moore, Randy Friedlieb, Lysa Kelly, Eileen and Loyd CONTRIBUTIONS: EICHNER Curtis, Mary Ann and Alan Kelly, Luisa and Patrick & NORRIS PLLC Morales, Gustavo Garcia, Faith Davis, Joan ORGANIZATIONS Lukens, Jane Action Theory Haynes, Walter Moreno, Martha Goldstein, Joy Davis, Liz and Joe Mahaffey, Libby and Bruce Landscaping & Nursery Murphy, Vince Griffis, Judith Decker, Sonya and Don GRANTS Manz, David Ajax Foundation Central Florida Palm & Navarro, Ciro Guendelsberger, Dehgan, Bijan Marler, Thomas Bird Street Corporation Cycad Society O’Riely, Carlos Debra DeKonschin, Marie Mathews, Margueritte Botanics Wholesale Dade Chapter Florida Osborne, Roy Harte, Marietta DeMott, Carol and John Merritt, Michael Cycad Society Seedbank Nurserymen & Pinot, Oscar Hicks, Patricia Dennis, Samuel S. III Growers Association Popenoe, Jeri and John Moore, Cindy and Randy Hutchinson, Bob Redland Nursery Rey, Manuel Hutchinson, Mayna

Richcreek, Jimmy Johnson, Marilyn Gifford Arboretum, FL South Florida Water Management District Riviera Country Club Jordan, Vivian Kambour, Michael Harry P. Leu Gardens, FL South Miami-Dade Watershed Advisory Committee, FL Sacher, Martini & Sacher Klein, Marty Harvard University, MA The Cycad Society, LA Sandoval, German Sasaki Associates, Inc. McIver, Rick Honduran Ministry of Tourism The Kampong, National Tropical Botanical Garden, FL Smiley, Karl Moore, Randy Humboldt State University, CA The Nature Conservancy, VA Southeastern Land & Renshaw, Merilynn Huntington Botanical Gardens, CA The Oakview South Elementary School, MI Appraisal Corp. Scherban, Bernard Indian River Research and Education Center, FL The Tropical Audubon Society, FL Stark, Jean and Eugene Siegal, Sima Steiner, Ricardo Institute of Ecology, Mexico The Trust for Public Land Smiley, Karl Sternberg, Paul IRD, Ecuador The Villagers, FL Stark, Jean The Cycad Center Kirstenbosch Research Center, South Africa U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), FL Verrengia, Jody Taintor, Ann Marie Selby Botanical Garden, FL USDA-APHIS, FL Whitelock, Loran Verber, Mary Miami-Dade County Park & Recreation USDA-Chapman Field, FL Wentzel, Jean Department, FL PLANT DONATIONS Whitney, Brenda U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, VA Central Florida Palm Miami-Dade County Planning & Zoning, FL Universidad Autonomea de Madrid, Spain & Cycad Society SPECIAL THANKS Mississippi State University Universita Di Napoli, Italy Dahme, Mike to staff whose contri- Missouri Botanical Garden University of California Riverside Dehgan, Bijan butions made it pos- Monkey Jungle, FL University of California, Berkeley DERM: Adopt-a-Tree sible to add color to National Audubon Society Program this issue of the MBC University of Florida (UF), Gainesville Desert Legume Project National Museum of Natural History, UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences newsletter. Smithsonian, Washington D.C. UF, Museum of Natural History National Tropical Botanical Garden, HI UF, Soil and Water Science New York Botanical Garden UF, Tropical Research and Education Center Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, Thailand UF/Miami-Dade County Extension WE’LL HELP YOU HELP US Palm & Cycad Society of Southwest FL University of Guam If you want to know how you can Palm Beach Community College, FL University of Kansas Palm Beach Palm & Cycad Society, FL join Montgomery Botanical Center’s University of Miami, FL commitment to the scientific inves- Palm Society of South Texas University of Missouri Palmetum at the Canary Islands, Spain University of Queensland, Australia tigation and education in tropi- Pinecrest Gardens, FL University of South Florida cal botany through much needed Quail Botanical Gardens, CA University of Texas financial support, goods, or services, Royal Botanic Garden, Kew, United Kingdom University of Wisconsin contact Mary Andrews, Manager of Sigma-Xi, FL Virginia Commonwealth University Development & Communications, at South Florida Palm Society Wildlife North Australia 305-667-3800 x112 or maryandrews @bellsouth.net. 7 RESEARCH & EDUCATION

Sinkholes, Sand, and the Silver Bluff UM Student Digs Deep into MBC’s Geological History

In a collaboration between the University stone escarpment’s highest point drops Other features of the property indicate of Miami, MBC, and one very bright sci- sharply near the Walter Haynes Overlook environmental shifts over time. Katie points ence student, everyone wins. Katie Maier, along the upper perimeter of the Lowland out deposits of marine fossil skeletons a student of Dr. Harold Wanless, professor Palmetum, as it stretches north to Georgia embedded in the limestone indicating the of Geology at UM, earned college credit for and south to Homestead in a formation violence of storm surge events. Nearby, sea undertaking a research project on the geo- known as the Atlantic Coastal Ridge. anemone burrows can be seen in the side of logical history of MBC’s property. Her report describes the special type the limestone wall, revealing a paleoenviron- Her report begins, “As each plant and of sand that makes up the bulk of the ment during relatively long calm periods. building at Montgomery Botanical Center bluff. Called ooids, this sand was created Another interesting feature of the prop- has a unique history, so the underlying by growing larger rather than by being erty is a dry sinkhole containing unique rocks have a story to tell.” In what serves ground down from larger material. It isolated sculptural spikes known by their as a field guide, Katie takes us back more forms by gradually accreting more mate- German name as spitzkarren. These forma- than 125,000 years as sea levels rose and rial in concentric layers as strong currents tions were left as acidic rainwater slowly fell along an ancient sandy shoal that moved tiny particles around the sea floor. eroded the softer rock around them. eventually formed the Silver Bluff Ridge. When fused into the solid mass of sedi- For anyone interested in Katie’s study, a A spectacular geological feature, the lime- mentary rock, it is known as oolite. copy of the report with a CD of charts and images can be reviewed in the Montgomery Archive. ■

Research Notes Co-authors and palm experts, Dr. botany at the University of Wisconsin, focuses on the phylogenetic rela- John Dransfield, Kew Gardens, leaflet samples from 60 species of tionship of the tribe Hyophorbeae and Dr.Natalie Uhl, Cornell Cycas to assist in identifying fossil pin- based on molecular and morpho- University, were having a learned nae of Cycas from the Eocene period logical markers. debate over the characters of of northeastern China. Sophie Nadot and certain palm species, when Dr. On-site guest, Dr. Juan C. Beatrice Albert from the Dransfield noted that, with many Moreno, Universidad Autonomea Laboratore Ecologie, France, col- plants developing into the repro- de Madrid, Spain, collected leaf lected flower buds from 36 palm ductive stage, the scientific value samples from 112 MBC accessions accessions for their study on the Dr. John Donaldson, Director of MBC’s collections have become of Phoenix for DNA extraction as development of pollen from an of South Africa’s Kirstenbosch extremely valuable to researchers. part of his research on phylogeny evolutionary point of view. Research Centre, annotated The two scientists found this to and biogeography of palms. Dr. Catharine Mannion, MBC’s cycad collections. While on be especially true as they exam- Dr. Charles Brandt, profes- professor at the University of site, he met with the MBC rep- ined fruit and flower during their sor at the University of Mississippi, Florida, accesses MBC regularly for resentatives of the IUCN Cycad annual on-site stay early this year. visited MBC to obtain diverse her entomological research. She is Specialist Group which he chairs. They were able to resolve many morphological samples and images currently working on the lobate lac After discussing the Cycad Action issues for their revised edition of four Rutaceae species for his scale and the Asian cycad scale. Plan with Dr. Terrence Walters of Genera Palmarum due to their research and lectures. Also working on the Asian cycad and Jody Haynes, Dr. Donaldson publishers in 2005. Dr. J.-C. Pintaud, IRD, Quito, scale problem are Roger Coe, reviewed the healthy African Dr. Harvey Ottley, direc- Equador, obtained leaflets from two (USDA-APHIS,FL) and cycads grown from seeds he had tor of Wildlife North Australia, accessions of palms for his molecu- Lizandra Nieves, of collected on previous expeditions. reviewed MBC’s cycad collection lar phylogenetic studies. the USDA-Chapman Field, He was later sent a comprehen- to learn about ex-situ conserva- Argelia Cuenca, a graduate FL station. They access sive sample of leaflets he selected tion efforts in the U.S. student at the Royal Veterinary and MBC to conduct studies for his molecular research on MBC staff sent Dr. C. Liu, pro- Agricultural University in Denmark, on biological control of Encephalartos. fessor of plant anatomy and paleo- collected palm leaflets. Her project scale with wasps.

8 HORTICULTURE

Besides ruining the tree’s natural form, the loss of leaves cuts off much of the tree’s The Cut Above: food source and exposes the bark of the upper branches to harmful rays of the sun. The wounds from this drastic cutting may Trimming Tropical Trees never heal, leaving the tree vulnerable to Scott Massey disease and decay. MBC Dicot Horticulturist If your tree is healthy and you feel that it’s too big, careful crown reduction pruning can help. In this type of pruning, the longest portion of main branches are As MBC’s dicot horticulturist and an forcing more growth to occur in the upper cut back to existing smaller lateral branch- International Society of Arboriculture branches. The lower, shorter branches are es. The lateral branch should be one third (ISA) certified arborist, I am frequently later removed to provide clearance around to one half (preferred) the diameter of the asked questions regarding tree care. One the tree. removed branch. Making these kind of cuts of the most common is: “How should I Large diameter branches on older trees around the entire tree reduces its size and prune my trees?” should only be shortened, not removed all maintains its original shape. When prop- Call the Experts the way back to the main trunk. Complete erly executed, a 20% reduction in size of removal may introduce decay that can I always like to qualify any advice on prun- canopy can be expected. cause the tree to decline to the point of ing with the recommendation that, while Although many arborists consider having to be removed. a small amount of trim on small, lower crown reduction a milder form of topping, is commonly branches can be done by an informed Cleaning the canopy the decision should be based on the abil- needed for mature trees to maintain safety, homeowner, a reputable professional— ity of the species to handle multiple cuts. appearance, and health. Focusing mostly optimally a certified arborist—should first There is a lot of variability in the ability on the interior near the trunk, this meth- make an evaluation regarding the species, of tree species to heal itself by compart- od removes dead, dying, damaged, broken, age, health, and condition of the tree as mentalizing (sealing off an affected area). rubbing, and structurally unsound branch- well as handle, at least, any major pruning For example, Quercus (oaks) and Bucida es as well as thins water sprouts. It should project. (black olives) compartmentalize very well, be noted that if too many water sprouts Why a certified arborist? Certification while others such as Delonix (poincianas) are removed, there may not be enough is awarded by the International Society of compartmentalize poorly and decay easily foliage left in the interior of the tree. This Arboriculture, an 80-year-old organization and rapidly. removal not only looks bad, it weakens the whose core mission is the care and pres- branches and reduces photosynthesis. Health and Safety First ervation of trees. The ISA Certified Arborist reduces the There are a lot of things to consider before Program requires passing a rigorous exam- Thinning the canopy density of live branches on the tree if it is revving up your chain saw. It is vital to ination demonstrating tree knowledge in still too thick after cleaning. As opposed to understand and employ the proper tech- 10 domains including pruning, safety, pest cleaning the canopy, thinning is performed nique that will accomplish your objective control, regional tree identification, climb- mostly on the outer portions of the canopy while protecting your own safety as well ing, and fertilization. An applicant must by removing small branches or portions of as the health of your plant. have a minimum of three years experience the outer edge of branches. So begin by learning all about your tree to take the examination, pass each domain Thinning should not be confused with and how to care for it from the library or to gain certified status, and take 30 con- shaping or hedging the tree—cutting internet. Then find a certified arborist for a tinuing education units every three years all branch tips back to a pre-determined professional evaluation, advice, safety infor- to maintain certification. Hiring a certified length. Though often done by tree-service mation, time of year for pruning your par- arborist assures a high level of expertise. companies, it is not recommended because ticular species, and to take care of most, if Identify Your Objective it causes the cut tips to flush out in many not all, your tree care. ■ Once an evaluation of your tree is com- smaller branches. This forced growth pleted, you need to establish your primary stresses the tree by using up stored energy objective. You may want to increase sun- reserves. Maintaining the rigid shape also light in areas under or near the tree, pro- requires more frequent pruning (which vide a better view through a tree, clear the may account for the reason why some tree of unsound or objectionable branches, companies use this pruning method.) or make the tree canopy smaller. Another common concern voiced is, Using one or a combination of four “My tree is too big.” Topping a tree—indis- basic types of pruning can usually accom- criminately removing a major portion of plish most objectives: raising, cleaning, and the crown—should never be an option. thinning the canopy and crown reduction. Raising the canopy or crown is most Scott’s Recommended Resources often performed on young to medium- aged trees to prevent low branches from • www.na.fs.fed.us/spfo • www.isa-arbor.com growing to a large diameter. This technique • www.floridaisa.org • www.hort.ifas.ufl.edu/woody/pruning shortens low branches on a regular basis, • Tree Pruning, Alex L. Shigo • Illustrated Guide to Pruning, E.F. Gilman

9 INSIDE MBC Planning, Propagating, Plowing... MBC Team Focuses on Three Research Collections Featuring Endangered Species

When Nell Montgomery first envisioned Building an environment for populations ments will help ensure the healthy growth a place where researchers and students from the Caribbean Basin is relatively easy of the endangered cycads and, ultimately, could investigate tropical botany “outside given MBC’s location, but creating a habitat preservation of their germplasm,” explains the public glare,” she would never have for desert-loving cycads provides more of Jody Haynes, MBC Cycad Biologist. “And dreamed the collections would become a challenge. It takes a mix of astute input not only will there be additional research so important to international conserva- from a landscape designer, soil scientist, and educational opportunities, the Cycad tion efforts. But with all cycads considered irrigation experts, geologist, horticulturists, Ecologic Collection will demonstrate the endangered and the diversity of palm spe- cycad biologists, and a hardworking team beauty and variety of color and form for cies disintegrating at an accelerating rate, behind a lot of heavy equipment to make landscaping possibilities.” MBC’s collections with associated scientific it happen. When developed, the Cycad And as with every experimental proj- data play an increasingly important role in Savannah Area will be the centerpiece ect at MBC, the process is being thor- international conservation strategies. for the new seven-acre Cycad Ecologic oughly documented for future reports With landscaping planned, plants Collection that will also include tropical for- that should be of special interest to growing in the nursery, ground clearing est and oak woodland habitats. researchers and conservationists as well underway, and expeditions in the offing, “The creation of specialized habitats for as cycad enthusiasts who share our sub- three focused projects are making sig- taxa with particular horticultural require- tropical climate. ■ nificant headway at MBC: the Caribbean Basin Conservation Collection, the Native Florida Collection, and the Cycad Ecologic Collection. MBC BY NUMBERS Listed as a critical hotspot, the Caribbean Basin was targeted by MBC’s Board in 2001 2003 Collection Inventory as a priority for collecting expeditions. Seeds from the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and Planted in Honduras are growing in the nursery as Growing in Total in the Ground Our Nursery Collection3 plans are being made for expeditions to PALMS Mexico, Cuba, and (yes) Florida. Taxa1 377 198 472 “Many gardens fail to high- Accessions 2 1,725 557 2,225 light what is in their own Plants 5,626 4,244 9,870 backyard,” says Executive Director Terrence Walters. CYCADS “But not only are this Taxa1 197 160 251 state’s native popu- Accessions 2 1,011 641 1,576 lations of palms Plants 2,798 2,661 5,459 and cycads

endangered or OTHER 1 threatened, they are Taxa 419 24 429 often requested to be Accessions 2 2,046 59 2,099 seen by our interna- Plants 2,435 87 2,522 tional visitors. When com- pleted, the Native Florida For detailed information on MBC’s taxa and accessions, contact Collections Development, ext. 103 Collection will be the only 1 Species, subspecies, varieties, etc. 2 A collection of seeds from one source or locality one of its kind in the state.” 3 A taxon or accession may be represented in both the ground and nursery

10 Spotlight on Volunteers Two Join MBC As One of Our Own Accepts Promotion Remembering Mayna 1925 - 2004 Last September, Laura Vasquez Excerpt from a tribute presented by Dr. Terrence Walters became part of at the memorial service held at Montgomery Botanical Center the Collections for MBC Volunteer Mayna Adams Hutchinson, February 1, 2004 Development team in the new position of Field Specialist. She brings a wealth of Laura Vasquez experience from proj- ects ranging from con- ducting field research cannot think of a better experiments, sampling, and testing to develop- I ing educational programs and place for family and friends to presentations. celebrate Mayna’s life than here at the Nell Montgomery Home. Mayna spent countless hours here every week during the past 10 years bringing warmth, charm, and beauty to the first floor of this historic residence with her inspired botanical arrangements. She considered this home a canvas on which to paint with the plant collec- Christine Emshousen is flanked by two other tions found on the property. members of the Cycad Program team, Cycad Each week, with clippers in Biologist Jody Haynes (right) and Assistant hand and her straw hat on her Cycad Horticulturist Stella Cuestas (left). head, Mayna would explore the 120 acres of Montgomery As the new Cycad Horticulturist at MBC, Botanical Center looking for Christine Emshousen brings energy and just the right leaf, branch, flower, and seed with which to fill her palette. commitment to the Cycad Program. What Mayna created hundreds of magnificent palm and cycad arrangements for the does she envision for the Program? “I will first address the current challenge of growing numerous events, tours, and receptions held each year at Montgomery. In her ike- cycads from all over the world in one locale to bana arrangements, she captured the windswept beauty of the large fan- and feath- optimize the health of the collection. I espe- er-shaped palm and cycad leaves, the primeval majesty of cycad cones, and the cially look forward to taking part in developing the new seven-acre ecologic collection.” Jody distinctive personalities of fruits and seeds from a wide diversity of plant species. Haynes, MBC Cycad Biologist, values his new Most visitors and guests, when reflecting on their visit to Montgomery, mention collaboration with Christine. “Her knowledge Mayna’s stunning works of botanical artistry as a memorable part of their visit. and skills already have proved to be a valuable asset to the entire Cycad Program.” In 1994, Mayna’s fascination with botany and her love of history, especially the history of Coral Gables, led her to volunteer in the new Montgomery Archive. Mayna’s knowledge of South Florida history and attention to detail made her a Charles Bauduy natural archivist. Along with her two dear friends, Katherine Bryholdt and Jackie was selected as an MBC Assistant Palm Biggane, the three women developed a truly outstanding archive program for Horticulturist, enthusi- Montgomery Botanical Center. astically filling the During my 10 years as MBC’s Executive Director, Mayna watched over me, as position opened by Christine Emshousen’s does a caring parent. She supported me, as a close friend, in all of my endeavors, promotion to Cycad and provided guidance, as a mentor, when I was floundering or moving in the Horticulturist. With a wrong direction. Mayna has strongly influenced me and has had an exceptionally Charles Bauduy life-long interest in subtropical horticul- positive impact on my life, my work, and Montgomery Botanical Center. She is and ture, Charles has been a quick study under the will always be considered part of the Montgomery family. All of us at Montgomery guidance of Palm Horticulturist Laurie will miss our friendship with her —however, Mayna’s love and commitment, and Danielson and veteran Assistant Palm Horticulturist Vickie Murphy. the impact she had in our lives, will be with us each and every day. ■

11 THE MONTGOMERY InIn thisthis issue...issue... ARCHIVEARCHIVE Who We Are ...... 2 Lilliputian Palms of Paraguay...... 4 The Tree Dioons of Honduras ...... 5 Community Connections...... 6 Benefiting from MBC ...... 6 Donor Appreciation ...... 7 Research & Education ...... 8 The Trimming Tropical Trees ...... 9 Inside MBC...... 10 Eisenhower Tribute to Mayna...... 11 From the Archive...... 12 About the Cover: The stately Roystonea Collection regia, featured in MBC’s Florida Native Collection, displays its showy inflorescence referred to locally as “Florida snow.” Photography by Mary Andrews

MBC’s Officers & Board of Directors Walter D. Haynes, President Karl Smiley, M.D., Vice President While RobertRobert MontgMontgomeryomery was Charles P. Sacher, Secretary-Treasurer servingserving as executiveexecutive secretarysecretary of the WarWar Loyd Kelly, Assistant Secretary PoliciesPolicies Commission in the earlearlyy 1930s, Jeanne Bellamy he came to knowknow one of the commission’scommission’s Nicholas Kelly major players,players, Major Dwight DD.. EisenhoEisenhower.wer. Peter Manz FromFrom a bond of mutualmutual respectrespect and com- MBC’s Botanical mon understanding, theythey crcreatedeated a strongstrong Consultant friendship lasting the rrestest of their lives.lives. John Popenoe, Ph.D. Among photographsphotographs of the Eisenhowers’Eisenhowers’ visits, nenewsws clippings, and memorabilia, the MBC’s Members MontgomeryMontgomery ArchiveArchive holds decades of corre-corre- Jeanne Bellamy spondence betwbetweeneen the twtwoo notable men as Libby Besse wellwell as betweenbetween their dynamic wives,wives, Mamie Marian Jennings Brusberg and Nell. Liz Davis The letters, beginning in 1933, include special Timothy Gregory, Ph.D. insights into personal and political eventsevents includ- Walter D. Haynes ing the Colonel’Colonel’ss activactivee supporsupportt of General Beverley H. Johnson EisenhowerEisenhower fforor the PresidencyPresidency in 1952. After Loyd Kelly the deaths of RoberRobertt and IkIke,e, corcorrespondencerespondence L. Patrick Kelly betweenbetween Mamie and Nell continued.continued. Mamie sharedshared Nicholas Kelly Stanley Kiem her concerns during the WWatergateatergate scandal of the David Manz Nixon administration, the difficulties of widowidow-w- Peter Manz hood, and her decline in health. Mamie’Mamie’ss last letter Ina Monhollen to Nell was in 1979, the yyearear of her death. Randal Moore Among the special events documented John Popenoe, Ph.D. in the collection is Mamie Eisenhower’s Charles P. Sacher 1970 flag dedication ceremony in front of Nell’s Charles S. Sacher House to honor the memory of her husband. Karl Smiley, M.D. Mamie inscribed the flag picture for Nell Mark Smiley (shown above), but apologized for the ink Scott Smiley Tom Smiley smearing on the glossy surface. Loran Whitelock Christabel Vartanian WE CARE ABOUT CONSERVATION MBC uses rrecycledecycled paperpaper.. WWee encourage you to rrecycleecycle it again by passing it along to an interinterestedested ffriendriend wwhenhen yyouou hhaveave ffinishedinished rreadingeading it.