Find Rare Plants and Seeds

Posted by Jamie McIntosh Jan 23, 2009

Last week, I was in parrot purgatory. My youngest son was turning four, and when I asked him what he wanted for his birthday, he inexplicably replied, “a stuffed parrot.”

I laughed, thinking he had just seen a commercial or a photo in a magazine. My son loves trains and Hot Wheels, but parrots? As the birthday drew closer, I casually asked him every few days what he wanted the most. The wish list waxed and waned, but he was steadfast in his desire to have a parrot.

On the day of honor, I had no parrot. I went to every big box store in a 10-mile radius, some dollar stores, and even a pet store, thinking I might find a parrot cat toy. Finally, I called my husband in desperation, and sent him on a parrot hunt at the large zoo about 30 miles from our home. Success, and it only set us back about 10 dollars!

Gardeners looking for their “parrot” know that a mere teddy bear won’t do. Gardeners looking for ‘Cypripedium parviflorum pubescens’ Lady’s Slipper Orchid aren’t going to be satisfied by planting yellow snapdragons as a replacement. Fortunately, there is a wealth of nurserymen catering to the most discerning gardener. One must order early, however, as these plants are often difficult to propagate, and sell out early.

Check out Heronswood Nursery, bought out by Burpee several years ago but still maintaining a robust online ordering service. Gardeners who’ve won the lottery might consider purchasing the 15 acre Heronswood estate in Kingston, Washington for $2.6 million.

Gardeners concerned with preserving diversity can shop Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company. With over 1200 non-GMO heirloom varieties, including 40 types of cucumbers and 50 eggplant varieties, organic gardeners can find something to please every palate.