I just discovered a new (pre-alpha) game on SourceForge.net and it reminded me (a bit, visually) of your project, so I decided to let you know about it.
ad-infinitum is some title-based space conquer game-thingey. Appears to be a mix between Orion and Civilization. It's windows only, but it did run using Wine. If you don't care to try it yourself; here's a video.
I like the plantes, although they look a bit too plastic
Regards, qubodup