Basil

Posted on
Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

  • A half hardy annual plant
  • Leaves are round with pointed ends
  • Basil has been cultivated for over 5000 years
  • Culinary herb featured in Italian cuisine as well as Southeast Asian foods
  • The word “basil” comes from the Greek βασιλεύς (basileus), meaning “king”
  • The main ingredient in pesto (basil, pine nuts and Parmesan cheese)

 

Continue reading →

Purple Shamrock

Posted on
Purple Shamrock

Purple Shamrock (Oxalis triangularis)

  • A perennial that is endemic to Brazil
  • It has 3 leaves which are triangular in shape
  • Flowers are usually white, sometimes a shade of pink
  • Prefer light shade
  • Leaves respond to light- they open up in bright light and close up when it’s dark
  • Grown from bulbs
  • Also called: Love Plant, butterfly plant and false shamrock

 

Continue reading →

Learn all about the Silkworm! They produce silk by spewing a substance called fibroin through holes in their jaws.

The capybara is the largest rodent in the world and can weigh over 100 pounds!

Learn about the Giant Anteater. They can eat up to 30,000 insects in one day!