Tag: trees
-
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 found on elder trees in temperate regions worldwide. It flourishes on both dead and live wood. Is the Jelly Ear Fungus edible? Soft and rubbery, the jelly ears are prized in Asia.…
-
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…
-
Mystery of Dead Man’s Fingers: Where Do They Grow?
Suppose you’re hiking through a wooded area in upstate New York or the famous Appalachian Trail and stumble upon clusters of dark, lifeless human digits protruding from decaying logs. What are those creepy things? For one, they could be Dead Man’s Fingers. Scientifically known as Xylaria polymorpha, this unique fungus is guaranteed to get a…
-
Usambara Three-Horned Chameleon gives birth like a mammal
With three long, spiky horns and a body colored for camouflage, the Usambara three-horned chameleon (Trioceros deremensis) could pass for a miniature dinosaur skulking through the trees. It even looks like a triceratops, especially the males. But there’s a twist that makes this reptile even stranger: it doesn’t lay eggs. Native to Tanzania’s mist-wrapped Eastern…
-
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…
-
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…
-
Ten best autumn landscapes in the USA
Autumn in the United States is a season of breathtaking transformations. The nation’s landscapes turn into vivid canvases painted with orange, red, and gold hues. Here are the ten best autumn landscapes in the USA, complete with the best times to visit and what you can expect to see. White Mountains, New Hampshire Home to…
-
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…
-
The Okapi: A striking fusion of appearances, yet a unique species
There is no denying that at first glance, the okapi (Okapia johnstoni) may lead many to believe they’re observing an uncanny representation of a horse and a zebra. Its long neck and body, reminiscent of a horse, and the distinctive black and white stripes on its legs and rump, akin to zebra stripes, contribute to…