Trees on the Yale Nature Walk

Kentucky Coffeetree
Gymnocladus dioicus
Tree ID: 157
Prospect and Sachem
Date of tree entry: February 8, 2023
The Kentucky Coffeetree is a slow to medium-growing species that is native to the midwest; it was Kentucky's state tree for nearly 20 years, hence providing the first part of this organism's name. While the second part of this tree's name (coffee) may seem inviting to taste this plant, it is important not to eat this plant raw, as the seeds and pods are poisonous to humans because they contain cytosine. However, upon roasting them, one can use the leaves, seeds, and pulp of the Kentucky Coffeetree to make beverages similar to coffee. This tree is remarkable in its toughness and adaptability; it can survive both droughts and floods, as well as high levels of air pollution. The Kentucky Coffeetree makes a great ornamental tree (as seen on Yale's campus) due to its unique ascending branching structure, which gives the plant a crown-like appearance. Students can look forward to this striking view as May and June approach, as the Kentucky Coffeetree is known to bloom in late spring. On the topic of blooming, this species is deciduous; its leaves emerge in a beautiful bronze-pink shade and progress to dark green over time, then as fall comes, the leaves turn yellow and brown before falling from the tree.

American Witch-Hazel
Hamamelis virginiana
Tree ID: 161
Prospect and Sachem
Date of tree entry: February 8, 2023
Hamamelis virginiana, most commonly known as the American witch-hazel, grows as a small deciduous shrub or tree. Though the species name "virginiana" means "from Virginia," the American witch-hazel is native to the broader region of eastern North America. Multiple branches extend from its base, typically growing about 15 feet tall. The plant is in peak bloom from late October to early November. Its characteristic bright yellow flowers have four thin petals and a calyx that darkens to a red color throughout the flower's development. The American witch hazel also produces fruit that appear as capsules. Witch-hazel has important medicinal uses as it is one of the only plants FDA approved for non-prescription use [1].

Eastern Redbud

Cersis canadensis
Tree ID: 153
Prospect and Sachem
Date of tree entry: February 8, 2023
The Eastern Redbud tree, also known as Cercis canadensis, is a small, deciduous tree that can be found in eastern North America. It is commonly found in wooded areas, along streams, and in parks and gardens. The tree grows to be 20-30 feet tall and has a rounded, spreading canopy that provides dappled shade. Its bark is dark brown and slightly rough, and its heart-shaped leaves are bright green in the spring and summer, turning yellow in the fall. One of the Eastern Redbud's most striking features is its pink to purple flowers, which appear in early spring before the leaves. These small, pea-like flowers bloom in clusters along the branches, making the tree look as though it is covered in pink or purple mist. After the flowers fade, the tree produces flat, brown seed pods that persist into the winter. The Eastern Redbud's wood is hard and dense, making it useful for woodworking projects. The tree is relatively low maintenance and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, as long as they are well-draining. It is also resistant to pests and diseases. Overall, the Eastern Redbud is a beautiful and versatile tree that adds color and interest to any landscape.

English Ivy

Hedera helix
Tree ID: 159
Date of tree entry: February 8, 2023
A message from our English ivy specimen growing up a wall and neighboring tree along the Farmington Canal Trail behind Pauli Murray: "Ivy is one of those plants everyone knows, and comes with a lot of baggage..." well excuse me, don't we all?! I may be getting dragged on the daily for "dominating the canopy," "invading California and the northwestern United States," having fruits that are "toxic to humans and livestock," or being "very costly and labor intensive to eradicate," but the haters only make me stronger. And I didn't hear a peep from them when I was out here purifying their air, making the front of their house all green and trendy, or providing shelter for adorable birds and bats. Long story short, it's tough being famous. I came here all the way from Europe and Africa, so love me or hate me...plant me or spend thousands of dollars and countless Saturdays trying to remove me...I'm not going anywhere anytime soon. ;) With love and ground cover from your favorite woody, perennial vine, English Ivy P.S. Please do not group me together with my sister Poison. We don't know where she went wrong...
Young white ash (4/25/23)

White Ash
Fraxinus americana
Tree ID: 160
Prospect and Sachem
Date of tree entry: February 8, 2023
The White Ash tree is native to eastern and central North America and is home to many different wildlife species, including birds, squirrels, and insects.

Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum
Tree ID: 158
Prospect and Sachem
Date of tree entry: February 8, 2023
This tree is commonly known as the Sugar Maple and belongs to the Sapindaceae family. It is situated on a bed of ivy near Prospect street. One defining characteristic of this particular tree is the way it is slanted. It has a very prominent curvature and it started growing leaves in the beginning of April.

Sour gum or black

Nyssa sylvatica
Tree ID: 152
Prospect and Sachem
Date of tree entry: February 8, 2023

Appalachian Tea
Ilex glabra
Tree ID: 156
Prospect and Sachem
Date of tree entry: February 8, 2023
Nestled within Yale's campus, an understated beauty awaits discovery: Appalachian Tea, scientifically known as Ilex glabra. Also called Inkberry or Evergreen Winterberry, this unassuming shrub is a native of the eastern United States, with its natural habitat extending from the Appalachian region to the coastal plains. Despite its unassuming appearance, Appalachian Tea holds a world of fascination within its glossy leaves and dark, lustrous berries. From its historical use by Native American tribes for medicinal and ceremonial purposes, to its ecological importance in supporting wildlife, to its potential as a landscaping plant, Appalachian Tea has a rich story to tell. Embark with us on a journey of exploration as we unveil the captivating secrets of this lesser-known yet extraordinary plant that graces the Appalachian landscape with its unique charm.

Eastern White Pine
Pinus strobus
Tree ID: 151
Date of tree entry: February 7, 2023
This tree is a cultivar of the Eastern White Pine which means it was cultivated especially for decorative use.

Eastern White Pine
Pinus strobus
Tree ID: 151
Date of tree entry: February 7, 2023

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