Apocynaceae

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 periwinkle, climbing periwinkle (Vinca), and dwarf climbing periwinkle? An explanation of how to distinguish between similar species.

Periwinkle, climbing periwinkle, and dwarf periwinkle all belong to the Apocynaceae family and are cultivated in Japan for ornamental purposes, frequently seen even in urban areas. They are popular for their interesting features, such as their fused petals with five propeller-shaped lobes at the tip, but their names are similar, especially the climbing periwinkle...

2023.11.02

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What are the differences between Ardisia japonica, Ardisia crenata, Ardisia crenata, and Citrus tachibana? We explain how to distinguish between similar species! Is the idea that they "fix nitrogen with their leaves" a myth?!

Ardisia japonica, Ardisia crenata, Ardisia japonica, and Ardisia trifoliata all belong to the genus Ardisia in the family Primulaceae. They grow wild in evergreen forests, but because they bear red, spherical fruits in autumn and winter, they are widely cultivated as ornamental shrubs, along with plants like Ardisia crenata (a member of the Chloranthaceae family). In Japan...

2023.10.22

plant

What are the differences between Primula japonica, Primula sieboldii, and Primula japonica? An explanation of how to distinguish between similar species.

Primroses, Japanese primroses, and Japanese primroses are all perennial plants native to Japan, belonging to the genus Primula in the family Primulaceae. Their flowers are similar in shape and are usually pink, leading to confusion among the three species. However, distinguishing them is relatively easy by examining the shape of their leaves. However...

2023.09.04

plant

What are the differences between dock, long-leaved dock, rough dock, and Ezo dock? How do you distinguish them from sorrel? We'll explain how to tell similar species apart! Did they rely on wind for pollination? Seed dispersal methods were more diverse than you might imagine!

Rumex japonicus, Rumex longifolius, Rumex crispus, and Rumex japonicus all belong to the genus Rumex in the family Polygonaceae. Originally, only Rumex japonicus was found in Japan, but multiple species have invaded and become extremely common weeds. They also share a common preference for disturbed soil, and are often found growing together...

2023.05.23

plant

How dangerous is the poison in oleanders? Why are they a symbol of peace in Hiroshima? The oleander flower, which doesn't secrete nectar, mimics an endangered species!?

Oleander is a common ornamental tree found in various locations throughout Japan, such as in parks and as street trees. However, it originally thrives in the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia. While there are various theories, it's said that 5 to 15 leaves are a lethal dose, and although extremely rare, there have been reports of poisoning in Japan. Furthermore, the smoke from burning oleander is also toxic...

2022.07.12

plant

There are differences between plumeria and Indian jasmine! We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! When did it arrive in Hawaii? Is it poisonous? Were the flower's flashy colors and scent an evolutionary adaptation to deceive moths?!

Plumeria is a popular garden plant known for its vibrant, large flowers and fragrance, symbolizing the tropics. However, it is also known as Indian jasmine. The terms "plumeria" and "Indian jasmine" may have different meanings. In Japan, "Indian jasmine" often refers to a single, common variety...

2021.09.22

plant

What are the differences between Trachelospermum asiaticum, Trachelospermum asiaticum, and Trachelospermum asiaticum? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Is it historically true that the name originates from "Fujiwara no Teika"? What is the ecological reason why they bloom and emit a fragrance in the evening?

Trachelospermum asiaticum and Trachelospermum asiaticum are climbing plants that can be widely found in Japan, from forests to urban areas, including cultivated varieties. They can be distinguished by the hairs on the underside of their leaves and the length of their flower tubes. They have been widely known in Japan since the time of the writing of the Kojiki, and their current names are derived from "fuji" (wisteria)...

2021.09.16

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