Did you know that in 2021, plants were the culprits in over 21,400 poisoning cases ¹, making up 3.6% of all reported poison exposures? As a nature enthusiast, I’m always drawn to the stunning diversity of the plant world—from the bright blossoms to the verdant leaves. Yet, beauty in nature can sometimes be deceiving. Some … Read more
Did you know that truly black flowers don’t naturally exist? What we often call “black” in the plant world is actually a deep, dark purple or maroon—nature’s clever illusion. Take for example the dramatic ‘Black Velvet’ petunias or the exotic Tacca chantrieri, which blooms like bats in flight. These flowers are about as close as … Read more
There are many reasons people own chickens. Chickens provide eggs and meat, which you can sell or use in your own kitchen. Other people keep chickens to show in competitions and exhibitions or as pets! Fluffy chicken breeds are in demand. Many of them make excellent show chickens because of their unique plumage, but their … Read more
What is the tallest grass on Earth? The bamboo species Dendrocalamus giganteus holds the record, reaching heights of up to 100 feet (30 meters). Known for its rapid growth and woody structure, bamboo excels in various environmental conditions and is the largest member of the grass family. Bamboo is no ordinary grass; it’s the sort of plant that … Read more
After patiently waiting for an entire decade, plant enthusiasts are being rewarded with a spectacular sight – the extraordinary blooming of the ‘Sapphire Tower’ plant. This incredibly rare species has unfurled its vibrant teal-blue blossoms at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens ¹, putting on a show that is truly out of this world. The Sapphire Tower, … Read more
What are the most valuable plants you know for food, medicine, and materials? One of the better-known is the Aloe Vera plant. It has incredible medicinal value. However, after someone asked a popular online forum for other examples of useful plants, these are the top-voted choices you probably have yet to hear of. 1. Moringa … Read more
Plants are nature’s air purifiers and are kept in homes across the globe for this purpose. In addition to their aesthetics and fragrance, air-purifying plants combat indoor pollution that triggers allergies and illness. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “Indoor pollution sources that release gases or particles into the air are the primary cause … Read more
As the warm weather approaches, those pesky mosquitoes start making their unwelcome return. While chemical repellents like DEET can be effective, many of us prefer to explore more natural alternatives. I’ve scoured the research and compiled a comprehensive guide to 14 natural scents that can help keep those blood-sucking pests at bay. Get ready to … Read more
Have you heard the popular claim that opossums are nature’s little tick vacuums, gobbling up to 5,000 of these disease-spreading pests per season? It’s a fascinating idea that has captured the public’s imagination and endeared many to these unique marsupials. But is it true? I decided to investigate and separate fact from fiction in the … Read more
RX Have you ever heard of a herb that can soothe your respiratory system, fight off infections, and even uplift your mood? Meet Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum), a medicinal plant with a long history of use by Native American tribes and a growing popularity in modern herbal medicine. What is Anise Hyssop? Anise Hyssop is … Read more
