Let's learn about helicopter seeds
Hello. In this tutorial, we will be learning about some of our flying tree seeds. Or, more specifically, we will be looking at our helicopter-type flying tree seeds. Are you ready? Let’s get started!
Which trees do helicopter seeds come from?
There are a variety of trees with samaras, but here in British Isles, we have three main helicopter-producing trees. These are field maple, Norway maple and sycamore. They might look the same, but identifying them is really easy. Here is how to tell them apart:
Field maple seeds
Field maple seeds have the greatest angle of the three and grow almost horizontally away from each other. Each seed is curved in an upward scoop from the bottom.
Norway maple seeds
Norway maple seeds also grow far apart from each other, but at a closer angle than field maple seeds. Each seed is broad at the tip and has a wavy appearance to its edges.
Sycamore seeds
Compared to field maple and Norway maple, sycamore seeds are smaller and they grow much closer together. Each seed is rounded at the tip and curves outwards at the bottom.
What are helicopter seeds?
Have you ever asked yourself, what are helicopter seeds and why do they have wings?
Well, there are two types of flying seed – parachute seeds and winged seeds. Helicopter seeds are winged seeds. Their wings are single, stiff, flat membranes, which are attached to the actual ‘seed’ bit and designed to help the seed catch the wind as it falls from the tree and fly away. Theis helps it move away from its parent tree so it is not competing for food, water and sunlight.
The reason they are called helicopters is because of the way they spin as they fall from the tree. But, they have other names too, including spinning jennies, whirligigs and whirlibirds. But their proper name is a samara.
Have you ever wondered why maple seeds spin as they fall ? You can find out here x
Summary
Well… there we go! A brief introduction to helicopter seeds and how to identify our three most common bi-wing samaras. I hope you enjoyed this tutorial? Let me know in the comments. Happy nature walking and see you soon!
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What next?
Check out these related links and resources:
P.S. Looking for field guides? Check these out.
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