Firmiana simplex, the flying invasive seed species Firmiana simplex, commonly known as the Chinese parasol tree or wutong, is an ornamental plant or tree that has recently been assigned to the family Malvaceae, formerly of the cacao, or chocolate family Sterculiaceae of the order Malvales, and is native to Asia. It grows to a height of 16 m (52 ft) and its wood has supersonic properties and the wood is used for the soundboards of several Chinese instruments, including the guqin and guzheng. 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. Unlike winged seeds, the seed or nut are actually attached to the pod membrane which functions as the parachute to the seeds.. This interesting seed species is very understudied, no data are available about its seed storage behaviour, data.kew.org/sid/SidServlet?ID=10431&Num=b4w plantasyhongos.es/herbarium/htm/Firmiana_simplex.htm en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Firmiana_simplex hort.ifas.ufl.edu/database/documents/pdf/tree_fact_sheets/firsima.pdf
Posted on: Sat, 03 Jan 2015 13:45:01 +0000
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