November Color Appears at the Washington Park Arboretum (Part II)
1) Cupressus arizonica var. montana (San Pedro Martir Cypress)
- This botanical variety of Arizona cypress grows at a high elevation in northern Baja California in
the San Pedro Martir mountain range. - Has attractive bark and cones that open when ripe.
- Listed as “vulnerable” in the IUCN red list.
- Located in 2-6E, south end of Arboretum Drive along Broadmoor fence.
2) Diospyros sp. (Persimmon)
- This small deciduous tree is laden w/ tiny edible berries.
- Berries typically need frost to ripen and are astringent if unripe.
- There are several Asian varieties that are sold in our local markets this time of year.
- Located in 12-2W, north of Boyer parking lot.
3) Magnolia virginiana (Sweet Bay)
- Coastal southeastern US semi-evergreen magnolia.
- Small, scented white flowers in spring, hence its common name.
- This specimen shows fruiting cones that have begun to split open exposing shiny red seeds.
- Located in 27-2W, west of Azalea Way and north of Loderi Valley intersection.
4) Osmanthus fragrans (Fragrant Tea Olive)
- Large evergreen shrub native to China.
- Fragrant, small white flowers in fall are used to infuse green or black tea leaves, to create
a scented tea called guì huā chá (桂花茶). - This specimen is located in the China entry garden of Pacific Connections Gardens, below
interpretive shelter.
5) Platycarya strobilacea
- This walnut family member is a small deciduous tree native to Asia.
- Female infloresence resemble a cone, as seen on this specimen.
- Located in 30-4W, east toe of Yew Hill.