A worldwide community photographing and learning about wildlife
Project Noah Nature School
Firmiana simplex
It is an ornamental plant or tree of the cacao, or chocolate family Sterculiaceae of the order Malvales. It grows to a height of 12 m (40 feet). It has alternate, deciduous leaves up to 30 cm (12 inches) across and small greenish white flowers that are borne in clusters.
It is native to Asia. It is grown as an ornamental in warm regions of North America. This one was photographed at an old house spot at the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge in Jasper County, SC. It is beginning to spread in this area of the refuge.
Recent publications mention the species as an aggressive and invasive weed in the warmer parts of North America. They urge its removal and give instructions for drastic measures, including destruction of nursery stock. The plant is self-fertile and its seeds spread readily, especially along watercourses, and they germinate and grow rapidly. They compete effectively, smothering many other species. Due to its superior sonic properties, the wood is used for the soundboards of several Chinese instruments, including the guqin and guzheng. According to an article in the journal Nature of 1884, the leaves of Sterculia platanifolia were dried for smoking; the reason for smoking it was not given, but another source simply says that it was used as a substitute for tobacco.
Spotted on Apr 7, 2012
Submitted on Mar 17, 2013
No Comments