Ecological Notes Web

What are the differences between Veronica persica, Veronica polifolia, Veronica undulata, and Veronica polifolia? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Has Veronica persica been displacing Veronica polifolia?

オオイヌノフグリ・タチイヌノフグリ・フラサバソウ・イヌノフグリは世界中の畑や道端で見られる青い野生種4種で日本でも早春の花を代表し、雑草に興味をもった時、一番初めの方に名前を覚える植物かもしれません。ただ、いずれも花も青～紫色をしており、葉...

2021.09.24

plant

There are differences between Japanese daffodils and regular daffodils! Are they poisonous? How do they differ from chives? Where are they native to? Why did the flowers evolve to bloom in winter?

Daffodils are a very popular ornamental plant in Japan, blooming in winter. However, a little research reveals that they are sometimes referred to as "Japanese daffodils" (Nihon-zuisen) or simply "daffodils." Is there a difference between Japanese daffodils and regular daffodils? Japanese daffodils are native to China...

2021.09.23

plant

What are the differences between Kibushi and Hachijo-kibushi? What are the different species in the Kibushi genus? We'll explain how to distinguish between similar species! Do the fruits turn your teeth black? Did the flowers have a strategy to attract different insects during the day and night?

キブシはかつて日本固有種とされていた種類で、日本では広く分布しています。種としては2種類しかいないものの、その変種はかなり多様で、判別が難しいものになっています。これらの変異には連続性があり、区別しない考え方もありますが、本記事ではあえて区...

2021.09.23

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

How toxic is castor bean? What are its components? What are the uses of castor oil? Why is it considered safe despite being toxic? Its flowers are pollinated by both wind and insects! Its seeds are dispersed automatically and by ants!

Castor bean is a perennial plant said to originate from northeastern Africa, cultivated worldwide for commercial and ornamental purposes, and sometimes naturalized. It's almost impossible to mistake it for anything else. Its seeds, called "himashi," are rich in oil, and the extracted "castor oil" is used in cosmetics, shampoos, soaps, and more...

2021.09.22

plant