My International Purchase
Four months ago I ordered frankincense and a few other sturdy succulents from a company overseas. I received notice that the package was shipped promptly. However, my international purchase was in transit for so long that I was certain it would arrive dead, if at all. Almost a full month later, I received a package of dry plants which seemed at least somewhat alive (see above photo). This writeup is an update on my original post: Hunting Affordable Rare Plants: Is Hojny Succulents Legit?
Supporting the Sturdy Succulents
Immediately upon the plants’ arrival, I soaked each in water until the roots appeared rehydrated. I then planted each succulent in Bonsai Jack’s Gritty Mix in 4″ plastic pots and placed them on a warm, sunny window sill. While I waited, the succulents were frequently exposed to folk music. This was not intentionally part of my rehabilitation plan; I just enjoy good tunes.
The succulents included the following:
Frankincense tree (boswellia sacra)
Hoya angustifolia
Hoya balaensis
Uncarina roesliana
Emergence of New Growth
Hoya angustifolia– This succulent looked the most alive after transit. Over the past 4 months, it has kept its healthy green leaves with deep purple outlines. Approximately four weeks ago, it threw out new growth from two separate growth points; three new leaves in total. I recommend this beautiful plant to any hoya lovers for ease of growth and aesthetic purposes.
Uncarina roesliana– This succulent’s bulbous root and green stem upon gave me hope for its survival even though it had no leaves upon arrival. Over the past 4 months, it seemed to do nothing. Then two weeks ago it sprouted one single leaf at the top of its stem. This leaf is adorably fuzzy and I look forward to watching this plant thrive.
Frankincense tree (boswellia sacra)– I ordered two of these; both which arrived with small roots and a slightly green stem. Similar to the uncarina roesliana, the frankincense seedlings gave no signs of growth over the past 4 months. One remains this way. However, last week a tiny green compound leaf appeared on one frankincense tree. As my international purchase stemmed from my desire to purchase an affordable boswellia sacra plant, I am thrilled.
The not-so-sturdy succulent
Hoya balaensis– this succulent arrived looking parched. Its leaf coloring was a pale green, rather than the bright green on the website photos. Additionally, the leaf texture was soft and yielding, not firm as a healthy hoya. No efforts changed this plant’s trajectory toward death. Water, sunshine, and compost tea had no effect. Four months after purchase, its leaves are brown and shriveled. I pronounce the hoya balaensis a dead, not-so-sturdy succulent.
Overall Impression
So far, three out of five plants turned out to be sturdy succulents. They stood up to the perils of international shipping and are thriving (indoors) in a sunny window in the cold Midwest. I am hopeful that the second frankincense tree may also show signs of life some point. Even if it does not, I am happy overall with the viability of the plants received. I remain cautiously optimistic about international plant purchases, so long as succulents are purchased through reputable dealers.
Have you ordered plants internationally? If so, what was your experience like? Feel free to post in the comments below!
If you prefer to avoid the stress of overseas shipping, try cloning king trumpet mushrooms instead!
