chemistry

What are the differences between Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) and waxflower? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Does Manuka honey really have health benefits?

Both Leptospermum scoparium and waxflower belong to the Myrtaceae family and are cultivated for ornamental purposes or used as branches in flower arrangements, as they are part of the "native flowers" or "wildflowers" collectively known as "native flowers" or "wildflowers" native to Australia. Furthermore, in the case of Leptospermum scoparium, some varieties...

2025.04.17

plant

07.0073 Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) - Leaf arrangement

What's the difference between Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) and Japanese star anise (Illicium verum)? We'll explain how to distinguish between these similar species! Japanese star anise protects graves, while Japanese star anise protects life!?

Both Japanese star anise (Illicium anisatum) and Japanese star anise (Illicium verum) belong to the genus Illicium in the family Schisandraceae. They are evergreen plants with glossy leaves, and their most distinctive feature is their fruit: a follicle-like fruit consisting of eight follicles arranged radially. Both are considered very important plants both domestically and internationally...

2025.04.14

plant

What are the differences between Pyracantha coccinea, Pyracantha japonica, and Pyracantha sulphurea? We explain how to distinguish between similar species! Is it a myth that Pyracantha causes sudden death in waxwings?

Pyracantha coccinea, Pyracantha japonica, and Pyracantha serrulata all belong to the genus Pyracantha in the Rosaceae family. They are characterized by their bright red berries that appear in winter and are frequently cultivated for ornamental purposes. In horticulture, however, this group is collectively referred to as "Pyracantha" or "Pyracantha" based on its genus name...

2024.03.26

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

07.3768 Goldenrod (Solidago altissima) flower heads

What are the differences between goldenrod, autumn goldenrod, and mountain goldenrod? How do they differ from other goldenrod species? This article explains how to distinguish between similar species.

Goldenrod (Solidago altissima), autumn goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea), and mountain goldenrod (Solidago virgaurea var. japonica) all belong to the genus Solidago in the Asteraceae family, and are representative perennial plants that bloom with small yellow flowers (more accurately, flower heads) in autumn. Goldenrod, in particular, is well-known because it proliferates rapidly in some regions...

2023.11.05

plant

07.2086 Japanese Red Maple (male flower)

What are the differences between Mallotus japonicus, Mallotus japonicus, and Quercus dentata? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Mallotus japonicus has hairs on its surface and an impenetrable defense against ants!?

Both *Mallotus japonicus* and *Mallotus japonicus* are deciduous trees belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family, and they share the characteristic of having extrafloral nectaries at the base of their leaves. Therefore, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between them. Furthermore, the Japanese name "Akamegashiwa" includes the word "kashiwa," which is similar to oak...

2023.08.07

plant

What are the differences between hydrangeas, lacecap hydrangeas, mountain hydrangeas, oakleaf hydrangeas, and American hydrangea (Annabelle)? We explain how to distinguish between similar varieties! Most of the flowers are just "decorations"!? What do the fruits, which are rarely seen, look like?

Hydrangeas, lacecap hydrangeas, mountain hydrangeas, oakleaf hydrangeas, and American hydrangeas (Annabelle) all belong to the genus Hydrangea in the family Hydrangeaceae, and are commonly cultivated and found in urban areas. Hydrangeas, in particular, are arguably representative of Japan. All of them develop large calyxes around the rainy season...

2023.06.06

plant

What's the difference between okra and tororo aoi (flower okra)? How to distinguish between similar species! What are the uses? Bees love the flowers! What happens to unripe okra if left unattended?

Okra and Abelmoschus manihot both belong to the Malvaceae family, and are used by humans due to the viscous nature of parts of their bodies. Morphologically, they share similarities: their leaves are palmate with 3-9 lobes, their flowers have a protruding "column" (a fused structure of stamens and pistils), and their corollas are white...

2023.05.16

plant

Posts 4155 Featured Image Terrestrial Aquatic Insect Identification Books

Summary of Identification Literature for Terrestrial and Aquatic Insects: List of Field Guides and Papers Containing Identification Keys

This article compiles literature for identifying insects. The focus is primarily on literature containing identification keys that allow for reliable species identification. While all taxonomic groups are covered, this is based on personal needs and observations, and therefore is not a comprehensive collection...

2022.10.06

animal

[Seed Plant Encyclopedia #091] What are the species of the Commelinaceae family? Photo list

The Commelinaceae family consists of annual or perennial herbs, some of which are climbing plants. The leaves have parallel veins, and the base forms a sheath. The central vein is somewhat thick and conspicuous. The flowers are bilaterally or radially symmetrical. Of the six perianth segments, the three outer segments are sepal-like, while the inner...

2022.09.06

Seed Plant Encyclopedia