Gymnosperms, with the name literally meaning ‘naked seeds’, are a parallel line of seed-bearing plants with each class likely to be representing a specific stage in evolutionary progression. There are altogether four types of gymnosperms, according to their order on…
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The Moreton Bay Pine (Araucaria cunninghamii), Hoop Pine, or Colonial Pine is a large evergreen conifer reaching about 60 meters (200 feet) in height. It is native to Australia, found mainly in coastal rainforest regions of northern New South Wales…
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From medicinal properties to writing emblems to the perils of capitalism, the sassafras has a long interaction with humans who both admire it and have used it for health. Today, it acts as a lovely tree that lends itself to…
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Plants grow in many different habitats. Ideal conditions for most are probably to be found in the tropical rainforest. There, warm temperatures and abundant rainfall promote rapid growth. Moving away from this ideal, plants adapted to a wide range of…
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One of the most dangerous drugs in the world that destroys free will, warps memory, and kills, may soon be coming to a street corner near you. Currently, alarmed health experts and drug enforcement officials are expressing concern that “Devil’s…
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The soursop is a tropical fruit tree related to the cherimoya or custard apple. Its other common names are guanabana and graviola. Its scientific name is Annona muricata and it is classified in the family Annonidae. Other important Annonids include the…
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Estuaries are bodies of water which are semi-enclosed. Fresh water, which comes from river or streams, mixes together with salt water from the ocean. These bodies of water trap nutrients and sediments which travel in the rivers and oceans, they…
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The Bunya Bunya Tree (Araucaria bidwillii) is a large tropical evergreen also known as the False Monkey Puzzle Tree and the Bunya Pine, or simply the Bunya. The species is native to coastal rain forest regions of Queensland, Australia, where they grow…
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Mutualistic interactions between species are essential for the survival and persistence of many native plants; however, their consideration in restoration efforts is often overlooked (Handel 1997). These interactions provide vital services to wildlife such as the basics: food, shelter, and/or…
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Approximately 100 years old, the study of ethnobotony is a relative newcomer on the recognized academic scene. Its roots are old, however. This science of the relationship between plants and people actually started in ancient Greece when the physicians of…
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