There are some trees that seem to have always existed, for example the Bristlecone Pine in E.Central California. Some trees were propulgated as was the avocado tree. Some trees seemed to magically appear like the Joshua Tree and still others have fabled history like the apple trees created by Johnny Appleseed. And some trees hail from Biblical times such as the Fig or Olive tree.
Monkey Puzzle Tree
The tree, a native of Chile, resembles a tangle of monkey tails and has a tough scale-like bark. It is extremely hearty and wind pollinated. The female seed cones mature 1.5 years after pollinating and hold 200 seeds. Blue Jays and squirrels disperse them keeping the trees populated.
Britain cultivated the tree in 1850. It was remarked it would puzzle a monkey to climb this tree and the name struck. It had also been called Monkey’s Despair. It has no fruit or edible part and is solely ornamental and now found in southern US as well. Don't confuse it with the Braided Monkey Tree although both are ornamental.
Avocado Tree
Although the California avocado tree is native to California, the tree has a rich history. The wild avocado originated in Mexico. Avocado seeds were found buried with Incan mummies in BC.
By the 1900s avocados were a cash crop in US. A single tree in California can produce up to 200 pounds of the fruit. The average tree produces 60 pounds, which is approximately 150 avocados.
Avocados are rich in vitamin E and it is popular to partially suspend the large brown seed in water with toothpicks to grow one from seed at home. It can grow this way but will take a decade to bear fruit.
Interestingly, the fruit doesn’t ripen on the tree but rather is “stored” on the tree. Once picked it ripens quickly.
Acacia Tree
This is an ancient tree that has become the “in” tree of the moment due to its nutrient rich fruit promising good health and longevity. It has become an international tree. It is a warm weather tree originating in Africa with some species native to Australia. Asians use the tree shoots in omelets, soups, and select stir-fry.
The flower produces a delicate honey unique for its non-crystallizing properties. In US and Europe acacia is found in Fresca and Barqs root beer as well as health drinks. The drinks can be expensive and caloric but the benefits have been studied and considered positive.
People and Trees
There is a Tree Campus USA Program encouraging tree management, community connectiveness and forestry awareness. Arbor Day is a worldwide event celebrating trees. Planting a tree in memory of someone extends beyond cultural borders.
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