Tag: Ornamental trees

While often overlooked, the crabapple tree serves a crucial ecological and practical purpose, from providing a vital food source for overwintering wildlife to acting as a universal pollinator for other apple varieties. This guide explores the multifaceted roles these small fruits play in both nature and the kitchen.

Native to the central and eastern United States, the Kentucky coffeetree (*Gymnocladus dioicus*) has a name that suggests a stimulating brew, but does the Kentucky coffee tree have caffeine? The answer is a definitive no, as its seeds are completely caffeine-free.

Despite its striking appearance and valuable fibers, the fruit of the silk floss tree (*Ceiba speciosa*) is listed as inedible by botanical gardens. While the silky floss within is used for stuffing, the fruit's pulp should never be consumed due to its inedible nature.

While many parts of the magnolia tree have a history of medicinal use and some species' flowers are safely eaten, the cone-like fruits of the southern magnolia are not considered edible for humans. In fact, the seeds contained within the fruit are known to be mildly poisonous if ingested.