Dede Sophie

Toyota Ireland has added a second version of the Corolla Cross hybrid SUV to its lists, with a smaller engine and some modifications that include more cargo space, writes Brian Byrne. Though pricing isn’t available until March, potential buyers of the 1.8 hybrid version can register their interest and book now for deliveries in the summer. The addition follows the launch of the 2.0 hybrid Corolla Cross last year. The 1.8 hybrid will offer 140hp and a 0-100km/h acceleration of just under 10 seconds. The switch to a torsion beam rear suspension of the new variant allows the addition of 46 litres more to the cargo capacity of the SUV. More than 90pc of Toyota’s passenger cars sold in Ireland have hybrid electric powertrains.  

Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’ is arguably one of the best exotic, tropical effect, cold-hardy plants around. It has magnificent, architectural leaves and has proven to be hardy to the extreme. Native to southern China and the island of Taiwan it is commonly known as the ‘Rice Paper Plant’ as the stem pith is used to make a substance commonly called rice paper, but more properly called pith paper. In the UK you can expect to see Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’ at its full height anywhere between 3–5 metres tall, however in its native habitat 7 meters have been observed! So how do you grow the tropical effect ‘must-have’ garden plant that is Tetrapanax papyrifer ‘Rex’? For best results position in full sun to dappled shade and prior to planting add a very rich compost such as composted farmyard manure to a rate of 50/50 with your existing soil. Dig a hole at least twice the size of the root ball, ideally followed by a layer of good quali...