Gallery 3 - Earth Bound   >   Down to Earth   >   Trees  >   Unusual Trees

Not tecnically a tree but this cactus is as big as a tree. They live only in Arizona and parts of Mexico in the Sonoran Desert. This tree is probably well over 100 years old. They take up to 75 years to grow an 'arm'!

Giant bamboos are actually the largest member of the grass family. Debra felt like she was in the land of the giants! Interesting facts about the bamboo plant: they are one of the most fastest growing plants in the world making it a great renewable resource. It can grow 100cms in 24 hours! They are the most enviromentally sustainable wood on Earth. Some species are known to rivel some metals in strength.

The fibers are used in textiles producing extremely soft clothing and towels. Bamboo also minimises CO2 and generates up to 35% more oxygen than equivalent stands of trees. Pretty cool plant!

This tree looks like it has a nose! Growths on trees can take on funny shapes. Taken in Arizona. yes, it does snow there sometimes.

This wide Hitachi tree resides in Liliuokalani Gardens, a beautiful Japanese garden in Hilo, Hawaii.