This article is about the rich world of indigenous plants native to North America and how these plants are shaping not just ecosystems but also economies and communities today. “Nature’s gifts, once quietly rooted in tradition, are now blooming with new opportunity and respect — reminding us that what’s native is also highly valuable.” – The…
Scientific name: Sechium edule (Jacq.) Swartz Family: Cucurbitaceae Chayote—sometimes called mirliton or vegetable pear—is a delicious, versatile squash-like plant that’s easy to grow and even easier to love. In this Plant Compendium entry, we’ll break down everything you need to know in a friendly, accessible way (but still backed by research!). You’ll learn its history, how to grow…
This article is about the fascinating world of the Giant Waterlily including its ecological, cultural and historical value. “When you marvel at the Giant Waterlily, you’re not just looking at a plant—you’re witnessing nature’s gentle giant holding up its kingdom.” – The Economic Botanist You might think of giant waterlilies as just oversized lily pads floating…
This article is about plants going extinct and why their conservation is crucial. “Saving a single plant is like preserving a chapter in the story of life—each one tells us who we are and where we come from.” – The Economic Botanist Have you ever stopped to think about the plants that might disappear forever,…
This article is about the rarest plants on Earth—from bizarre flowers to near-extinct species—and why these extraordinary plants reveal the fragility of nature. “Nature hides its best secrets in the most unexpected places. You just have to be curious enough to find them.” – The Economic Botanist Have you ever stumbled across a plant so…
This article is about how digitizing herbaria is transforming botanical research, making plant collections accessible and advancing the study of plants worldwide. “In the world of plants, every leaf, stem, and flower hold a story. By digitizing these stories, we open a window into the future of botanical research, where science meets innovation.” – The Economic…
This article is about the long history of survival, evolution, and importance of magnolias in nature today. “Some flowers are like timeless travelers, crossing epochs without losing their beauty. The magnolia is one such wanderer, rooted in the past, yet still blooming in the present.” – The Economic Botanist Magnolias are an iconic symbol of beauty,…
This article is about the enchanting world of wild orchids in the Canadian Maritimes. Learn where to find and how to identify these stunning wild orchids. “In the stillness of the forest floor, the wild orchid waits—not to be found, but to be noticed.”— The Economic Botanist Welcome to the fascinating world of wild orchids…
This article is about the exotic fruits of the Amazon River that you must try! Dive into their unique flavors and health benefits. “In every fruit that falls from the Amazon canopy, there’s a story of survival, healing, and ancient wisdom—bite by bite, we taste the rainforest.” — The Economic Botanist The Amazon Rainforest is a natural…
