Living things

What are the differences between holly (Ilex crenata) and holly osmanthus? What are the differences between Ilex crenata, European holly, and holly mauve? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Are the two types of leaves a result of evolution?

Both holly (Ilex crenata) and holly osmanthus belong to the Oleaceae family and Osmanthus genus, and can be seen cultivated even in urban areas. Young holly trees are also frequently seen in forests. Morphologically, both have serrated leaves, which is why these two species are often confused...

2024.02.05

plant

What are the differences between snowdrops (Euphorbia marginata) and snowflakes (Euphorbia hederacea)? We explain how to distinguish between similar species! The "green" color of the perianth segments has various roles!?

Snowdrops and snowflakes both belong to the Amaryllidaceae family and are very commonly cultivated in Japan as ornamental plants that bloom in winter. Both are native to Europe, and because they are both white with green spots and have similar names, they are often confused...

2024.01.16

plant

What are the differences between Christmas roses, Lenten roses, and hellebores? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Actually, I've only ever seen Lenten roses!?

Both Christmas roses and Lenten roses belong to the genus Helleborus in the Ranunculaceae family, and in Japan, they are frequently cultivated as ornamental plants because they bloom during the winter. Extensive breeding efforts have resulted in large-flowered and double-flowered varieties. However, due to the diversity of varieties...

2024.01.07

plant

What are the differences between Styrax japonica, Pink Chime, and Styrax obassia? What are the differences between Styrax japonica, Deutzia crenata, Symplocos chinensis, and Stewartia pseudocamellia? We explain how to distinguish between similar species.

Styrax japonica, Pink Chime, and Styrax obassia all belong to the Styrax genus of the Styracaceae family and are common plants often found in gardens. Morphologically, a distinguishing feature is that the flower stalks grow downwards, and the flowers bloom facing downwards. However, some people may not know how to distinguish between them...

2023.12.27

plant

What are the differences between Japanese madder, European madder, and Indian madder? An explanation of how to distinguish between similar species.

Japanese madder (Akane), European madder (Akane serrata), and Indian madder (Akane serrata) all belong to the genus Rubiaceae, and are well-known for their roots being used primarily for red dyeing. The color "akane-iro" (madder red) is derived from the plant "akane," and is also frequently used in personal names, even though its use has declined...

2023.12.02

plant

What's the difference between Tibouchina japonica and Tibouchina urvilleana? An explanation of how to distinguish between similar species.

Both Tibouchina urvilleana and Tibouchina urvilleana belong to the Melastomataceae family. Tibouchina urvilleana, in particular, is well-known and, although a southern species, is relatively cold-hardy and commonly cultivated in Honshu. In horticulture, Tibouchina urvilleana is sometimes simply called "Tibouchina," which can cause confusion...

2023.11.21

plant

What are the differences between Japanese honeysuckle and American honeysuckle? An explanation of how to distinguish between similar species.

Japanese maple (Acer pycnanthum) and American maple (Acer pycnanthum) are both members of the Acer genus in the Sapindaceae family, characterized by their beautiful autumn foliage. In spring, Japanese maple blooms with red flowers before its leaves open, which is the origin of its Japanese name. However, these trees look similar and can be difficult to distinguish. Although there are differences in leaf size and shape, there is considerable individual variation, so differentiation is not always easy. This article focuses on the classification of Japanese maple and American maple.

2023.11.19

plant

What are the differences between shiso (perilla), egoma (perilla), and lemon egoma? An explanation of how to distinguish between similar varieties.

Shiso, egoma, and lemon egoma are all annual plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family, genus Perilla, and possess a unique aroma and taste. Shiso and egoma, in particular, have been cultivated since ancient times and are now used primarily in pickled plums and dressings, making them extremely familiar plants to Japanese people. However, shiso and egoma...

2023.11.10

plant

What are the differences between Gomphrena globosa (globe amaranth) and Gomphrena globosa (yellow gomphrena)? What are the differences between them and crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), Sanguisorba officinalis (burnet), and white clover (Trifolium repens)? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species.

Both Gomphrena globosa (globe amaranth) and Gomphrena globosa (yellow globe amaranth) belong to the genus Gomphrena in the Amaranthaceae family. Their bright, almost fluorescent-colored flowers and long flowering periods make them popular ornamental plants frequently planted in gardens. However, the differences between these two species are not well understood...

2023.11.09

plant

What are the differences between Cassia obtusifolia (Ketsumeishi), Cassia occidentalis (Habuso), and Cassia tomentosa? We explain how to distinguish between similar species! And "Habu tea" isn't actually made from Cassia occidentalis!?

Cassia obtusifolia, Cassia japonica, and Cassia nomame are all annual plants belonging to the legume family, and were formerly classified in the same genus. Their common characteristics include once-pinnately compound leaves with opposite leaflets, and flowers with five yellow petals of almost identical shape...

2023.11.08

plant