Daily Archives: January 20, 2011

Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur (South Waterfront Ecological Reserve) in Buenos Aires includes a huge diversity of plant life, most of which is native to the area. Parkinsonia aculeata (Mexican Palo Verde) is a glorious sight in flower. Ailanthus altissima (Tree of Heaven) is an introduced species, so what is it doing here in Reserva Ecológica Costanera Sur? It is notable for its large clusters of red colored fruits which resemble maple seeds. I also took photos of two other flowering trees, the identification of which eludes me. The first appears to be a species of Acacia with alternate twice-pinnately-compound leaves, thorns, and catkins of white flowers. Acacia greggii, perhaps? The second had driven me nuts. All I can say was that I was impressed with this small tree with such large, distinctive, deeply-lobed leaves. This tree also bore cream-colored flowers, and globose fruits. Continue reading →