

How to identify Osage orange (Maclura pomifera)
Osage orange, also known as Hedge, Monkey Brains, Mock-Orange, Monkey ball, Hedge apple
Osage orange is a deciduous tree characterized by its distinctive, wrinkled, orange-tinged bark. It exhibits simple leaves that are arranged alternately along the branches, with a shiny dark-green surface. The standout feature of osage orange is the large, spherical fruits which can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter. Although they resemble oranges, these fruits are not edible. The tree can also be identified by its milky sap that oozes from any cuts to the bark or leaves.
Large, spherical fruits up to 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter, resembling oranges but inedible.
Distinctive orange-brown to gray-brown stem bark with zigzag pattern and stout spines.
Shiny dark-green lanceolate leaves, 2 1/2 to 5 inches (6.5 to 12.7 cm) long.
Rugged, deeply furrowed trunk with orange-brown coloration and ridged bark.
Milky sap oozes from stem and leaves when cut, aiding in identification.
The leaves of osage orange are shiny and dark green on top, with a lighter green and slightly pubescent underside. They are lanceolate to ovate in shape, measuring 2 1/2 to 5 inches (6.5 to 12.7 cm) long and 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches (3.8 to 6.4 cm) wide. The margins are smooth to slightly wavy. Petioles are thin, 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) long, may have some hairs, and release a milky sap when broken.
The flowers of osage orange exhibit a dimorphic trait. Male flowers are remarkably small, measuring about 1/8 inch (3 mm), and are organized in dangling racemes 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long from leaf axils. Female flowers form green, globular heads roughly 3/4-1 inch (2-2.5 cm) in diameter, sometimes in clusters of 2 or 3. Each head contains up to 200 minuscule flowers with a hair-like appearance. Blooming occurs from late spring to early summer, facilitated by wind pollination.
The stem of osage orange exhibits a distinctive orange-brown to gray-brown smooth bark that follows a somewhat zigzag pattern. It features stout spines ranging from 1/4 to 1 inch (0.6 to 2.5 cm) in length and exudes latex sap when cut. New stems are green and typically square in cross-section (tetrate). These characteristics, particularly the color, texture, and presence of spines, are crucial for identifying the stem of osage orange.
The fruit of osage orange is a distinctive syncarp resembling a large, yellow-green citrus fruit, roughly 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in diameter. Its surface is notably wrinkled and bears a tough rind. When cut open, the fruit reveals a cluster of drupes and emits a milky latex sap. Due to these characteristics, such as shape, color, and unique texture, it is easily recognizable despite being inedible for human consumption.
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
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The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.
The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.
The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.
Scientific Classification of Osage orange