This is pending of course, another wayward arctic blast which can happen between now and end of March. The champaca plant was a gift from another friend, who happens to be one of Boeing's first senior Filipino engineer. The champaca plant is also known as Joy perfume tree, and its fragrance is at par as those of Ylang-ylang, gardenia and sampaguita.

It is strictly rated for zone 10 and above. I love some challenge, so I've grown one in a pot and let it stay outside the whole winter. At least I can bring it back if we get one of those arctic blasts. Our lowest lows so far has been 25 deg F and have more than 30 days of frosty nights. Sheltered only by a wooden fence from the east side (to prevent chilling injury in presence of early morning sun and freezing temperature), the champaca practically survived unscathed, perhaps a few spots of chilling injury here and there appearing as lesions on leaves, but it stayed generally green and unburnt. Hoping to get some flowers soon. But really hoping that I got one of the cold hardier sport to share with some people someday.


Joe