The Oak, Druids’ plant

The Oak, Druids’ plant

Among all plants and trees, the Oak is perhaps the species that has left the deepest imprint in Western culture and collective imagination. It’s present in many ancient mythologies as a symbol of strength and justice, often associated with the divinities that embody...
Tannins and autumn colors

Tannins and autumn colors

Trees in autumn turn into bright colors, yellow or red, not only because chlorophyll disappears, but also because of tannins. In nature, many compounds of the falling leaves are destroyed and recovered, such as chlorophyll. But leaves also accumulate tannins: taste a...
Tannins and plant defenses

Tannins and plant defenses

Have you ever tasted a young wine that left you with a rough, dry mouthfeel? Have you ever experienced this sensation on a persimmon, an underripe fruit, or tasting an edible wild plant? This phenomenon is called astringency. Well, astringency was the moment when you...