Moraceae

What are the differences between Morus alba, Morus serrata, and Broussonetia papyrifera? We'll explain how to distinguish between these similar species!

Both Morus alba and Morus serrata belong to the genus Morus in the family Moraceae and are deciduous shrubs commonly found along the edges of forests in Japan. Both are well-known for their use in sericulture (silkworm farming). Morphologically, a major characteristic is the presence of hairless upper leaves, a mix of undivided leaves and lobed leaves with a distinctive 3-5 incisions. However, 2...

2025.05.07

plant

What are the differences between Ficus microcarpa, Ficus pumila, and Ficus serrata? We explain how to distinguish between similar species! What is the special parasitic wasp that visits the "fruit-like" "syconium"?

Ficus microcarpa, Ficus serrata, and Ficus serrata all belong to the Ficus genus of the Moraceae family. They are distinguished from other Ficus species by their climbing growth habit, attaching themselves to tree trunks and rocks. Their most distinctive feature, like other Ficus species, is the formation of fruit-like structures...

2025.03.18

plant

What's the difference between loquat (Biwa) and wild fig (Inubiwa)? How do they differ from apricots, persimmons, and mangoes? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Insects and small birds visit loquat blossoms that bloom in winter!?

The loquat (Ficus microcarpa) is an evergreen tree native to China, cultivated worldwide for its edible fruit. In Japan, it is frequently cultivated not only for food but also for ornamental purposes. A similar-sounding species, the deciduous shrub known as *Ficus erecta*, is often confused with the loquat due to its oval-shaped, fruit-like structure...

2024.02.14

plant

What are the differences between the Japanese linden (Tilia japonica) and the large-leaved linden (Tilia japonica)? What are the differences between the Japanese linden (Tilia japonica) and the Indian linden (Tilia japonica)? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! What is the secret to attracting so many bees? Is it the scent? What is the role of the bracts on the fruit?

Both the Japanese linden (Tilia japonica) and the large-leaved linden (Tilia japonica) are deciduous trees belonging to the genus Tilia in the Malvaceae family. Although they have different origins, they are both cultivated in cities throughout Japan, and their leaf shapes are very similar, so someone who has never seen them might not be able to distinguish between them. However, the size of the leaves, as well as the petioles...

2023.07.01

plant

What are the differences between Broussonetia papyrifera and Broussonetia kozoa? Do Broussonetia papyrifera flowers burst open? What is the history of Broussonetia papyrifera? Are its fruits edible?

Both *Broussonetia papyrifera* and *Broussonetia erythrorhizon* have been used as paper since ancient times, and *Broussonetia papyrifera* can still be found in familiar green spaces today. However, some literature suggests that the distinction between these two species is not very clear, and they have historically been confused with each other. However...

2022.05.04

plant

What's the difference between a banyan tree and a fig tree? Why is it called the "strangler fig"? Where are the flowers? Only one type of insect visits the flowers!? Where are the real fruits? It's an important food source for bats!?

The Japanese banyan tree (Ficus microcarpa) and the Japanese Ficus microcarpa (Ficus sylvestris) are known as two "strangler figs" in southern Japan, both producing drooping aerial roots and forming receptacles. Ecologically, they are similar, and it can be difficult to distinguish between them. However, there are significant differences in leaf venation and leaf length between the two. Also, regarding aerial roots...

2021.09.20

plant