These mystery seeds are from a common plant that grows almost anywhere.
Depending on where you live, you just might be seeing the seeds right about now.
Can you guess what kind of seeds these are?
Author: Roberta (Page 358 of 562)
Our mystery seeds from last week faintly resemble caterpillar droppings.
They are seeds, however, and grow into a plant called a snapdragon vine, Maurandya antirrhiniflora.
Snapdragon vines are delicate twining plants with magenta, fuschia, or even dark purple flowers. They get their name from the fact the flowers resemble snapdragons.
The vines are native to the Southwest.
The leaves are triangular, almost arrowhead shaped.
Snapdragon vines grow well with a trellis or other support, or trailing from a hanging basket.
The best part is that the plants form seed capsules and then readily reseed, ensuring many years of viewing pleasure.
Who would have thought such unattractive seeds could become such a lovely plants?
Have you ever grown snapdragon vines?
Have you heard about the supernova that Peter Nugent found on August 24, 2011? A supernova is a star that explodes and becomes exceedingly bright. Scientists are excited about this one because it is relatively close by (well, compared to most others).
Through the wonders of YouTube, here is Peter Nugent to tell you about it himself.
Although he says you can see it with binoculars, EarthSky says you will have a better chance with a small telescope in “Top 10 tips for seeing the supernova.”
If you live near San Francisco, you might want to find out about visiting the Chabot Space and Science Center on September 10, 2011 for a viewing through a big telescope (weather permitting).
Our weather forecast indicates a lot of clouds over the next few days. Let us know if you get to see it.
For more information, see Roberta Gibson Writes.