Author: Christopher Ko
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The Spanish Cedar (Cedrela odorata)
Physical Description Spanish Cedar is a large, evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 meters (98 feet) tall. It has a straight trunk with reddish-brown bark and a broad canopy of compound leaves. The tree produces small, fragrant flowers followed by woody capsules containing seeds. Environmental Concerns Spanish Cedar is endangered due to overexploitation…
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Podophyllum peltatum
Common Names: Phonetic Spelling: poh-doh-FIL-um pel-TAY-tum Description: Distribution/Location: Native to the eastern United States, commonly found in shady forests. Environmental Benefits: Provides food for wildlife, especially turtles, who enjoy the fruits. Crucial energy source for primary consumers. Fun Fact: While the fruits are edible when ripe, other parts of the plant are toxic and were…
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Cornus sericea
Phonetic Spelling KOR-nus ser-ISS-ee-uh Common Names Appearance Habitats Found in wetlands, along streams, and in moist woodland edges across North America. Environmental Impacts Growth Factors Fun Facts
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Panicum virgatum
Common Names: Phonetic Spelling: PAN-ih-kum vir-GAY-tum Description: Distribution/Location: Environmental Benefits: Fun Fact: Switchgrass was one of the dominant species in the tallgrass prairies that once covered much of North America. Plays a key role in prairie restoration projects aimed at restoring these vital ecosystems!
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Asclepias syriaca
Common Names: Phonetic Spelling: as-KLEE-pee-us see-REE-ah-kuh Description: Common Milkweed is a perennial plant that grows up to 5 feet tall. It has broad, ovate leaves and clusters of pink to purplish flowers that are highly fragrant. The leaves are large, oval, and opposite, with a smooth margin and a prominent midrib. The flowers are small,…