You grew it from a seed? How long did it take for it to bloom?

hi phillip,
yes, i got the seeds from a woman who lived up the street.
i think it was about 9-10 years ago when it germinated but this one has been producing flowers for a number of years now, perhaps 4-5.
her house was recently sold. just last week, i walked there to see the improvements they are making to her house and they have cut her plant to the ground(along with a large banana shrub). what a shame, as it was probably 10' tall.
obviously, many home improvement folks(contract painters, these were) are not aware of the time investment for shrubs such as these.

I'm impressed - I don't do well with seeds. :(

Ugh, home developers, I just don't understand them. I wouldn't want a new house in a dreary stark landscape.