A family tree, also called a pedigree chart, is a visual representation of family relationships. These charts are often depicted in the shape of a literal tree. The oldest generations are located at the top. Branches come from both parents to connect to their children below them. The youngest generation, around which the chart is centered, can be located on the trunk... Read more
Flower motifs have been popular in artwork from time immemorial. We're drawn to flowers because of their bright colors, their delicate beauty, and their transience - they don't last. "Hippie" and "Boho" styles are especially known for their use of flowers... Read more
Pistachio nuts grow on the small pistachio tree. It is related to the cashew. It lives in dry, warm places and is thought to be native to Iran... Read more
The lavender plant is native to the Mediterranean region. Because of its pleasant scent, lavender has been used in soaps and perfumes since ancient times. In fact, its very name is derived from a word meaning "to wash." It is grown in gardens as an edible herb, a medicine, and for its scent... Read more
There are nearly 8,000 species of roses that grow around the world. From the wild varieties, edible and ornamental varieties have been cultivated. Roses are exchanged as gifts symbolizing love, friendship, apology, and sympathy... Read more
The chrysanthemum or mum is a popular garden flower. It is native to Europe and Asia. Its name is derived from the ancient Greek words for "golden flower." Chrysanthemums have many overlapping petals, similar in shape to the dandelion or carnation... Read more
Most of the time, bugs eat plants. But sometimes, the plants eat the bugs! One well-known variety of bug-eating plants is the Venus flytrap. This plant has a "mouth" at the end of its leaves. When small hairs called trichomes are touched by insects, the mouth snaps shut, trapping the insect... Read more
Houseplants or potted plants are more popular today than ever before. Caretakers of such foliage often call themselves "plant parents" and "crazy plant ladies." Millennials make up a large proportion of this group. They grow plants as a hobby, to beautify their homes, and to freshen the air... Read more
Beans are the seeds of plants in the legume family. Worldwide, many varieties of beans are cultivated for food. They are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Often, the seeds are dried for later cooking; sometimes the entire seedpod is eaten, as in the case of green beans... Read more
Red roses have long been used to symbolize love. But a wilted, dead, or dying rose can mean a fading of hope and love or even the end of life. The most memorable depiction may be the enchanted rose from Beauty and the Beast. It was kept beneath glass to ensure that the last petal would not fall a moment too soon... Read more
