E04: Oxford's *uck-Up, AND An Interview With @BotanicalOtter (Colonialism in Plant Collecting?)

In Episode 4, Tanya tries to convince Jos to cure a headache with a disgusting espresso-lemon concoction. And she gets worked up about the "fast fashion" of Christmas plants. We also head deep into the jungles of Borneo for a reality check on what it means to be a modern "Plant Hunter."

In this episode:

• Spilling the Plant Tea:

  • Anthurium Confusion: Jos finally clears up the mess between Anthurium 'Darkest Panama', BVEP, and A. antolakii.

  • Viral Drama: The Oxford University Rafflesia discovery video went viral, but who got erased from the narrative? We discuss the backlash regarding the Indonesian researchers.

• Feature: The Poinsettias:

  • Why Poinsettias are the ultimate "fast fashion" of the plant world.

  • The Aztec history behind the name (yes, it involves bird poop).

  • Jos rates new Poinsettia cultivars: From 'Freedom Peppermint' to the 'Country Kilts' (the "Red Thai Constellation" of Poinsettias).

• Interview: Fraser Cook (@BotanicalOtter):

  • Joining us from Borneo, Fraser discusses reclaiming the term "Plant Hunter."

  • "Plant Flexing": Why influencers showing off expensive poached plants is the "Tiger King" energy of horticulture.

  • Fair Trade Plants: Can we get Forest Stewardship Council certification for our houseplants?

  • Overrated/Underrated: Why Anthuriums are oversaturated, and Scindapsus deserves more love.

• Rate That Weird Plant:

  • The "Cage" Hoya (Hoya decipulae).

  • The "3D Printed" Plant (Aponogeton madagascariensis).

  • The "Penile" Bucket Orchid (Coryanthes) and what Jos saw

Mentioned in this episode:

• Guest: Fraser Cook @botanicalotter

• Viral Rafflesia Story: Dr. Chris Thorogood and the Oxford University

• Plant Provenance: https://plantprovenance.com

Connect with us:

• Email: [e-mail]

• Website: hortikult.com/podcast