Angraecum
Darwin's Orchid
Comet Orchid
Christmas Star Orchid
Scientific Name:
Angraecum sesquipedale
Family:
Orchidaceae
Characteristics
Colors:
white
Description
Angraecum is an epiphytic orchid from the Angraecum genus native to Madagascar and tropical Africa. It blooms white flowers from November to February, with the representative species sesquipedale having flowers 15cm in diameter and spurs reaching 35cm in length. Known for releasing fragrance at night, this plant is famous as 'Darwin's Orchid' because Darwin used its long spur to explain evolutionary theory. Growing as epiphytes on trees and rocks, they have thick leaves adapted to drought conditions. The white flowers are specialized for pollination by nocturnal insects, particularly known for coevolution with hawkmoths.
Trivia
- Darwin predicted existence of specialized moth from 35cm spur, found after his death
- Name derives from Malay 'angurek' meaning epiphytic orchid
- Representative example of coevolution with nocturnal hawkmoths
- About 200 species distributed in Madagascar with intense speciation
Uses
Ornamental
- Greenhouse cultivation
- Orchid exhibitions
- Collectors' items
- Cut flowers (luxury)
Medicinal
- Sometimes used in traditional medicine in Madagascar
Caution:
Medicinal effects not scientifically proven; do not use without expert knowledge
Culinary
Not suitable for consumption
Other
- Scientific education material
- Symbol of evolutionary research
- Subject of fragrance research
Aloe
Medicine Plant
Burn Plant
True Aloe
Scientific Name:
Aloe vera
Family:
Asphodelaceae
Characteristics
Colors:
red, orange, yellow
Description
Aloe is a succulent plant from the Aloe genus distributed from South Africa to Arabian Peninsula. Over 300 species are known, with representative species like Aloe vera and Aloe arborescens used as medicinal plants since ancient times. Blooming red, orange, or yellow flowers from November to February, thick fleshy leaves contain gel-like substances with high water retention. Leaf edges have spines, adapted for survival in arid regions. Contains active compounds like aloin, used for treating burns, wounds, and as laxatives, but contraindicated during pregnancy.
Trivia
- Legend says Cleopatra used it for beauty
- Aloe vera means 'true aloe'
- Introduced to Japan in Edo period, called 'no need for doctor'
- Studied as hardy plant that can grow in space
Uses
Ornamental
- Houseplants
- Rock gardens
- Succulent collections
- Xerophytic gardens
Medicinal
- Treatment for burns and wounds
- Laxative (aloin)
- Skin moisturizing and beauty
- Anti-inflammatory effects
Caution:
Prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding; large amounts cause diarrhea and abdominal pain
Other
- Cosmetic ingredients
- Health supplements
- Shampoo and soap
- Aromatherapy
Toxicity
Toxicity Level:
Mild
Toxic Parts:
Leaf skin (aloin-containing parts)
Symptoms:
Large amounts cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, risk of miscarriage during pregnancy
Marguerite
Paris Daisy
Marguerite Daisy
Boston Daisy
Scientific Name:
Argyranthemum frutescens
Family:
Asteraceae
Flower Language
-
love divination
-
true love
-
trust
-
secret love
Characteristics
Colors:
white, pink, yellow, orange
Description
Marguerite is a semi-hardy perennial from the Argyranthemum genus native to Canary Islands. Blooming for a long period from November to May, the basic form has single flowers with yellow centers and white narrow petals, but varieties include double and pompon types. Flower colors are diverse including white, pink, yellow, and orange, with plant heights ranging from 30-100cm. The name derives from Greek 'Margarites' meaning pearl, while the Japanese name Mokushungiku refers to leaves resembling Chrysanthemum coronarium and stems becoming woody with age. Beloved as the flower for love divination, it dislikes high heat and humidity, becoming dormant in summer.
Trivia
- Love divination with 'loves me, loves me not' petal picking is universal
- 24 Argyranthemum species exist as endemics in Canary Islands
- Introduced to Japan as 'Western chrysanthemum' in Meiji era
- Long-lasting cut flowers enjoyable for about one week
Uses
Ornamental
- Flower bed planting
- Potted plants
- Cut flowers
- Mixed plantings
Medicinal
- Sometimes used in folk remedies but not common
Caution:
Medicinal effects not proven; avoid use without expert knowledge
Culinary
Not suitable for consumption
Other
- Love divination games
- Bouquets and flower arrangements
- Horticultural education material
- Aromatherapy (mild fragrance)
Rose
White Rose
Garden Rose
Scientific Name:
Rosa sp.
Family:
Rosaceae
Flower Language
-
purity
-
deep respect
-
mutual love
-
I am worthy of you
-
beauty is the only charm
Characteristics
Colors:
white
Description
Rose is a deciduous shrub from the Rosa genus widely distributed in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, beloved worldwide as the 'Queen of Flowers'. White roses particularly hold important meaning as symbols of purity and sanctity, frequently used in weddings and religious ceremonies. Flower forms vary from single to double blooms, with many fragrant varieties. Cultivated varieties number in tens of thousands, with repeat-blooming types flowering from spring to autumn. White roses range from transparent pure white to cream, with some tinged with pink or green, each showing different expressions. Chosen as the birth flower for November 22nd, representing pure love and respect.
Trivia
- White rose meanings change by number (1: love at first sight, 99: eternal love)
- Scientific name Rosa derives from Celtic word for 'red'
- World's oldest rose fossil dates back 35 million years
- Damask rose treasured as premium perfume ingredient
Uses
Ornamental
- Garden planting
- Cut flowers
- Bouquets
- Wedding decorations
Medicinal
- Rose hips as vitamin C source
- Petals used for beauty and fragrance
- Essential oils for calming and antidepressant effects
Caution:
Do not use pesticide-treated cut flowers for food or medicine
Other
- Perfume and cosmetic ingredients
- Rose oil
- Rose water
- Aromatherapy