Tag: trees
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Where did Christmas Tree idea come from? Unwrapping its origins
The idea of the Christmas tree, as it is known today, finds its roots in traditions that date back to the Middle Ages in Germany. It was around this time that devout Christians began bringing decorated trees into their homes during the festive period. The earliest record reflects a guild in Freiburg setting up a…
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Have you heard about the edible jelly ear fungus?
The jelly ear fungus (Auricularia auricula-judae) resembles the human ear. Also known as the wood ear, the brown-colored jelly ear mushroom is commonly seen on elder trees in temperate regions worldwide, where it flourishes on both dead and live wood. Is the Jelly Ear Fungus edible? Soft and rubbery, unlike the slimy Parrot Waxcap Mushroom,…
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Where does Delonix regia grow? How to plant the fiery tree
Delonix regia, commonly known as the Royal Poinciana or Flamboyant, is a species of flowering plant native to the African island of Madagascar. Specifically, it originates from the dry, deciduous forests of the west coast. However, the tree’s flaming orange-red flowers and its adaptability have made it a popular ornamental tree well beyond its native…
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Is the Dragon Blood Tree dangerous? Separating fact from fiction
Native to the Socotra Archipelago in the Arabian Sea, the Dragon Blood Tree, scientifically known as Dracaena cinnabari, is an evergreen species that can live for hundreds of years. Its distinct umbrella-like canopy and intriguing red resin, known as “dragon’s blood,” have made it a subject of folklore and scientific curiosity alike. But what everyone…
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Is Daisugi Real? The Ancient Japanese Tree-Growing Technique
The Japanese forestry method for harvesting wood, daisugi (meaning “cedar table”), goes as far back as the 14th century to solve a seedling shortage in Kyoto. Yes, Daisugi is real, not a hoax. Let’s explore the ancient Japanese technique for growing trees out of trees. The 700-year-old technique involves pruning a tree’s branches like giant…
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The beauty of Madagascar’s giant Baobab trees
The Grandidier’s Baobabs (Palmate adansonia) are giant trees indigenous to Africa. Nicknamed the “mother of the forest,” this species of Baobab tree is predominantly found off Africa’s mainland in the island country of Madagascar. It joins the fiery flowering plant Delonix regia as native to the country. Baobabs can live up to 800 to 1000…
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Is the iconic Banyan tree in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii, still standing?
The Maui wildfire that razed through Lahaina Town and left 99 dead is still revealing the aftermath of its massive destruction. Yet, one glimmer of hope has emerged amidst the devastation: the landmark banyan tree in Lahaina remains charred but still stands. The Banyan tree becomes a symbol of Lahaina’s resilience Planted in 1873 to…
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The inspiring journey of Julia Butterfly Hill and her 738-day tree-sit
Imagine spending two years perched on the upper branches of an ancient redwood tree, battling the elements, and doing everything possible to raise awareness about deforestation. Sounds impossible, right? Not for Julia Butterfly Hill, an extraordinary woman whose commitment to environmental preservation led her to live in a tree for 738 days. Let’s explore her…
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The Hickory Horned Devil: A lush tale of transformation
From the forest floor to the fluttering branches above, the world of insects is rife with enchanting creatures that surprise and inspire. Today, we delve into the intriguing life of one such creature, known for its striking and somewhat fearsome appearance: the Hickory Horned Devil. But fear not, for despite its dramatic name and unusual…