Plants

Thuja trees belong to the Cupressaceae family, which includes other conifers like cypress, juniper, and cedar. Within this family, the genus Thuja consists of five recognized species, with three native to North America (Thuja occidentalis, T. plicata, and T. standishii) and two from East Asia (T. koraiensis and T. sutchuenensis). These evergreen trees are commonly … Read more

Techny Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Techny’) is a popular cultivar of the Eastern Arborvitae, classified botanically under the Cupressaceae family and the species Thuja occidentalis. It is a cultivated variety selected for its hardiness, dense foliage, and excellent winter color retention. Like other members of its species, it is a cold-hardy conifer native to North America, … Read more

American Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) is a widely recognized evergreen conifer belonging to the Cupressaceae family, which includes cedars and cypresses. It is botanically classified under the genus Thuja and species occidentalis. This species is native to eastern North America and has been cultivated for centuries due to its hardiness and practical value in landscaping. It … Read more

Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Smaragd’) is a compact, evergreen conifer that belongs to the Cupressaceae family. It is a cultivar of Thuja occidentalis, commonly known as Eastern Arborvitae or Northern White Cedar, which is native to eastern North America. The cultivar name ‘Smaragd’ is derived from the Danish word for “emerald,” referencing the tree’s … Read more

Huckleberries are small, round berries that grow wild across various regions, particularly in North America. They belong to the Ericaceae family, sharing lineage with blueberries and cranberries, and are known for their vibrant colors, ranging from red to deep blue or black. Their flavor is a distinctive sweet-tart balance, often more intense than cultivated berries. … Read more

Carpenter ants are classified within the order Hymenoptera, which also includes bees and wasps. They are part of the family Formicidae, a diverse group that encompasses all true ants. Like their relatives, they are social insects that live in structured colonies with complex roles and behaviors. Their scientific classification highlights their evolutionary connection to other … Read more

The Eastern Tiger Swallowtail (Papilio glaucus) is a large and striking butterfly belonging to the order Lepidoptera and the family Papilionidae, which includes all swallowtails. Its genus Papilio is known for species that often display tail-like extensions on their hindwings, a feature thought to confuse predators. While not a plant, this butterfly is closely associated … Read more

Birds with long necks are uniquely adapted creatures that have evolved this feature for various ecological advantages. Their extended necks enhance their field of vision, allowing them to spot predators or prey from a distance. This trait also contributes to their elegant posture and balance, especially in flight or while wading through water. The length … Read more

Chickadees are small, energetic songbirds known for their curiosity and friendly nature. They belong to the tit family and are commonly found across North America and parts of Eurasia. Their distinctive “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call is both a form of communication and a warning system, varying in intensity based on the level of threat. Species found in … Read more

The American Goldfinch (Spinus tristis) is a small, vibrant songbird celebrated for its dazzling summer plumage and lively behavior, often seen flitting through fields and backyards across North America. Known as the “wild canary” for its bright yellow coloration and cheerful song, it is a favorite among birdwatchers. Family The American Goldfinch belongs to the … Read more