First, a status report on Pinguicula jackii. Despite my best efforts at
killing the plant, it is now a gorgeous, succulent and fairly large
plant. It has 5 luscious leaves and really looks healthier than the
wild plants I saw. I do intend to take some photos soon as well as
sorting out earlier wild photos. I wonder if it will flower?
Second, I'll be back to Cuba in 1997 following an official invitation to
return that I just received. It may be of interest to know that Cuba
has now formally defined several new Conservation areas. Unlike many
countries, these areas are now fully off limit to anyone and everyone.
The sites can only be visited by those carrying a formal permit. I
fully agree with this. (It doesn't really matter if anyone doesn't,
Cuba does and I for one would not recommend breaking cuban laws!!!) The
sites I visited in Cuba are incredibly vulnerable, including at least
two that I reported had been lost to science through inappropriate and
unnecesary farming (pigs in one case, cows in another, ploughing of
bogland (??!!) in a third). My hosts are currently hoping to arrange
for full permits for myself and my botanical Cuban colleagues (if they
can't get them, no-one can!). On this visit, I hope to see or possibly
collect (seed of) the Eastern species (as well as already having a full
dance card for Salsa - but you didn't want to know that!) There is also
the possibility I can revisit the P. jackii site to get seed (I need a
second plant to help distribute this plant, otherwise anything I
distribute will simply be a clone of a single specimen).
Third, this leaves my 1996 holiday calendar as blank. I'm considering
visiting the Dominican Republic (1 species) or I could go to Northern
Greece (several ping forms). But if anyone is looking for a companion
for a visit somewhere interesting or has a better suggestion on where I
should go, fire away (try writing just to me, I'm sure we don't need to
bother everyone!). It needn't be a Ping site (even though they are my
priority). If it is to see Pings, even one rare one (or one new to
cultivation) is sufficient to attract me. If it isn't to see Pings,
it's best for me if there's a reasonable rannge of things to look at.
Any ideas welcome (but I'm not willing to travel alone into deepest
jungle such as in Mexico, much as I'd like to visit).
Regards
Paul