Thomas' Botany Blog

Picture from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cercis_canadensis The cercis canadensis or the eastern redbud. This is a large tree native to the eastern North America. FUN FACT: This is Oklahoma's state tree. This tree typically grows 6-9 meters. It is generally short and often twisted in its trunk and has spreading branches. It is nearly black in color, and spotted with lighter lentcels. The flowers are showy, light to dark pink color. These flowers are pollinated by long-tongued bees such as blueberry bees and carpenter bees. The winter buds are tiny, rounded and dark red to chestnut n color. The leaves are alternate, simple, and are heart shaped. These flowers usually sprout in April, and May before and with the leaves. FACT: In the United States, this tree is difficult to grow farther west into arid areas west of western Kansas and Colorado. These flowers usually sprout in April, and May before and with the leaves. These plants decorate the Urbana University Lib

Picture from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moringa_oleifera This interesting plant spotlight is dedicated to the Moringa Oleifera plant. This plant is very interesting because it is fast-growing, drought-resistant, and has many well known purposes. This plant is also known as the drumstick tree, or the horseradish tree. (The taste of the roots resemble horseradish) One of this plants most interesting uses is for traditional herbal medicine. It has enzymes that can be used in the healing process. This plant can also be used in water purification. What is it? This plant can reach heights of 10-12 cm with a trunk of 45 cm. It has a whitish grey color and is surrounded by cork. Flowering on this plant usually begins within 6 months, but in colder regions (by season) flowering only occurs from April to June. In areas with constant rainfall flowering can happen twice or all year round. I found this plant to be interesting because of all of its practical purposes. This plant is def