Kids Research Express

Dogwood, common name for a family of flowering plants distributed mainly in the temperate areas of the northern hemisphere, with a few species occurring in tropical South America and Africa. Of the 14 genera in the family, only the dogwood genus is native to North America. Members of the family are mostly trees or shrubs with simple, opposite leaves. Well-known exceptions, however, are the bunch berry, a perennial herb; and the pagoda dogwood, which has alternate leaves. Dogwood flowers are small and are produced in branched terminal clusters that are sometimes surrounded by showy white bracts. Thus, the so-called petals of the familiar flowering dogwood are actually bracts. The main economic importance of dogwoods stem from their valuable ornamental species, grown for their attractive flowers, flower bracts, fruits, twigs and stems, and colorful autumn leaves. In addition to the species already mentioned, most of which are commercially grown, others commonly found in cultivation inclu...

Pictures of Angiosperms English Elm The English elm, one of a number of elm species found throughout the North Temperate Zone, is native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa. It grows to a height of 30 m (100 ft). The English elm is used for its timber and its bark, from which certain dyes can be made. In the United States, the English elm and most other elms have fallen victim to the Dutch elm disease, which was accidentally introduced from Europe and for which no cure has been found. Flame Tree The flame tree is named for its brilliant scarlet blossoms that cover long, spreading branches. It is a native of the island of Madagascar, where its dangling seed pods are often gathered and used as fuel. It is now cultivated as an ornamental in tropical and subtropical areas around the world. Flower Garden Maintenance A healthy flower garden requires maintenance. By regularly removing spent or fading flowers, a practice called deadheading, gardeners prolong the blooming season in the...