Monthly Archives: June 2008
The Gall of It
There’s a tree in the gully near our orchard. Last February, when several plants of the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) were in bloom with their small white flowers and many stamens, this tree, too, was in bloom with its small white … Continue reading
Mimosa update
A couple of years ago I wrote about two Mimosa species that we have in the area. They are sensitive to the touch, and I was quite taken by them, at first. Now that we have a few good healthy … Continue reading
Miconia rubiginosa in bloom
It’s the time of year for the Miconia rubiginosa bloom – possibly my very favorite Miconia tree. All of the Miconias in this area have small white flowers in what is called a panicle inflorescence, that is, more or less … Continue reading
When a Plant Recognizes Sister Sue
If the ordinary-looking beach plant, the sea rocket, notices unrelated plants on the beach nearby, it will sprout aggressive nutrient-grabbing roots. But if it detects a sibling nearby, it restrains itself. The research is described in the Science Section of … Continue reading
