Maple Leaf Bower
by Connie Handscomb
Title
Maple Leaf Bower
Artist
Connie Handscomb
Medium
Photograph - Photography - Fine Art
Description
We never see only what we see; we always see something else with it and through it.
~ Paul Tillich
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Maple
Genus : Acer
Maples are considered to be the broadleaf trees with the most beautiful foliage. New England is considered to have the most vibrantly cololured maple leaves in the world.
It is the sharp pointed leaves that give the maple its name: the botanical Latin word acer means sharp. The wood was used to make spears and lances, while the leaves healed the wounds. Maple wood imparts a pleasant flavour to food or drink when bowls or cups are made from it and again, back to ancient times, cups called mazers were made from maple wood.
The Japanese maple is considered to be the Elegant maple. It is mentioned in Japanese novels dating back to the 11th century. It was a Dutch botanist that brought the maple to the West (the Acer palmatum : like the palm of a hand). These trees grow throughout North America, northern Africa, and Asia, and provide a spectacular foliage display. There are estimated to be almost 200 species, one of which is native to Britain. There are maples in Europe, although not as many as the other continents. Most (not all) turn red in autumn. The winged seeds are called keys (samaras).
Maple syrup is made from the sap of the sugar maple. Eating hot syrup on snow was a treat for indigenous children, and as sugar cane was an expensive crop, Thomas Jefferson began growing the trees for their syrup.
The maple leaf is the most well-known national emblem of Canada (Canada's flag is also known as The Maple Leaf). It has been used as the emblem since the 1700's.
Source:
Lives Of The Trees: An Uncommon History [D. Wells]
The International Book Of Trees [H.Johnson]
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This image was captured as I looked up into the branches of the tall maple tree I was standing under.
Uploaded
December 1st, 2015
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