Poisonwood trees (Metopium spp.) are small to medium sized trees, native to Florida, Mexico, Central America and several Caribbean islands. As their common name indicates, they contain harmful chemicals, which limits their commercial value.
About 16 trees native to parts of Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas comprise the genus Pistacia. They vary widely in growth habit – some are small and shrub-like, while others mature into 50-foot-tall trees.
Despite their common name and habit of producing edible fruit, wild plum trees (Harpephyllum caffrum) are not closely related to the plums trees that produce the fruit that fills the shelves of your local grocer (those plums belong to the genus Prunus).
The common mango tree is the most widely planted and well-known member of the genus Mangifera. Designated by botanists as Mangifera indica, the tree is most famous for its delicious fruit, which is enjoyed by people all over the world. Mango trees are also grown ornamentally in yards large enough to accommodate their impressive size.
While most beargrasses (Nolina spp.) look rather similar, two traits characterize every species in the group: tall, pale inflorescences and serrated, grass-like leaves.
About 15 woody plant species form the genus Cordyline. While botanists and horticulturists typically refer to the plants by their scientific names, laypersons often use names like cabbage trees, lily trees, or ti trees to refer to members of this genus.
Native to Central and South America, the plants of the genus Furcraea are popular and interesting ornamental succulents. However, these plants – which go by an incredible array of names in nurseries and garden centers – are not only important to homeowners and landscapers; they play a large role in the lives of rural communities that have benefited from these plants for hundreds of years.
Blessed with an impressive form, a hardy nature and unique leaves, maidenhair trees (Gingko biloba) are as attractive as they are interesting. With evolutionary roots extending deep into geological time, these leftovers of an ancient world have proven to be resilient survivors, who are even capable to thriving in 21st Century urban habitats.
Maples (Acer ssp.) are some of the most beautiful and familiar trees in the world. In most places, they are an inescapable component of the natural world.
Japanese umbrella pines are unusual-looking trees that rarely solicit lukewarm opinions – as explained by the University of Florida Extension Service, “people either love this tree or won’t even look at it.” The whorled tufts of evergreen needles found at the end of the trees’ branches are said to resemble umbrellas, hence the species’ common name.
