Trees Without Wood: Unveiling Nature's Surprising Secrets
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News18•29-01-2026, 21:32
Trees Without Wood: Unveiling Nature's Surprising Secrets
- •Not all large plants we call 'trees' possess true woody trunks; some rely on tightly wrapped leaf stalks or water-filled tissues for support.
- •Banana trees, papaya trees, coconut trees, and betel nut trees are examples of plants that lack true wood.
- •Banana trees have a 'pseudostem' made of tightly wrapped leaf bases, which is soft and dies after fruiting.
- •Coconut and betel nut trees have trunks composed of tough, interwoven fibers, allowing them to bend rather than break.
- •The 'Bloodwood Tree' from South Africa, in contrast, is a true hardwood that 'bleeds' red sap when cut, used for durable furniture.
Why It Matters: Many plants resembling trees lack true wood, relying on alternative structures for support, while true hardwoods offer durability.
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