Botanical Heritage
United Land Plants
Discover the diverse flora that makes United Land unique - from our precious mint to exotic tropical blooms.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate is another major source that contributes to the United Land Economy. With Pomegranate Harvest season only in certain months (Mainly Late August to early November), it is also sought after and valued just like mint. Pomegranate is normally eaten whole, however in order for the tree to produce its fruit, it makes a flower called the Pomegranate Flower, which is United Land's National Flower.
The Pomegranate Flower
These Flowers only blossom during certain times during March to May. However they are still visible until the Pomegranate harvest takes place normally August to November. The only two Pomegranate Trees in the Mainland are located along the Bury-Nunavut border (On the Bury side). However there are 3 more Pomegranate Trees outside the mainland.
Pomegranates History in SoCal
Native to Ancient Persia, Pomegranates have been cultivated for almost 4,000 Years. These trees were introduced to the "New World" via the Spanish, port in San Diego. These trees were later planted on Ranchos to see if Southern California was fit for them. These trees were resilient and survived floods, earthquakes and fires, showcasing their resilience. However in a region dominated by citrus and orange, these well-deserving plants were not in the spotlight. Today in United Land and other spots of the I.E flourish in Pomegranate Production. The climate of United Land and Southern U.S.A is semi-humid between the Temperatures of 20-35°C, making the Inland Empire Valley Region a perfect place to grow these trees.
Importance in Other Cultures
Ancient Persian dishes often included Pomegranate - they used it in soups, spices, drinks and even rice. In the European World, Pomegranate served an important role to the medieval Spanish Kingdom of Granada. It was so important it was the main feature on the Granada flag and coat of arms. Today the modern Spanish Coat of Arms shows a Pomegranate on the bottom of the Royal Spanish Coat of Arms.
Fun Fact
The Motto of Granada is "Reinar es agridulce" which means "Reigning is bittersweet"
Mint
Mint is the National Herb of our Country. It mainly grows in the Vallais de Mentha Valley, in Nunavut, with some other smaller patches across the country. In fact Mint is often the 2nd best thing that helps the country besides Sports. United Land Mint is precious and carefully sought after.
Uses For Mint
Ice, Ice, Baby! One of the hardest things to do with mint is to freeze it, however it is highly rewarding if you're able to do so. You should watch the mint every hour to see if it freezes, decomposes or dries out. 100 Degrees: Mint Tea is one of the best things you can get out of mint. Just put your mint leaves in a cup and pour boiling water at 100°C (373.15 K or 212°F). Just Eat It: Mint is perfectly consumable after washing it in water ONLY. Decor: Put some Mint on your cake, beef or even pasta. These are just some ways you can enjoy United Land's National Herb.
Significance of Mint
Mint is one of the things United Land grew on. It is embedded in United Land's history, culture and economy. In the early ages Mint was used as a way to make fresh tea and even treat illnesses. The United Land Mint system was so well arranged that almost all of the mint was consumed the day it was picked. It was inexpensive and could be found in EVERY MAINLAND HOUSEHOLD. Due to mass consumption, all the mint in the lowlands was pulled up, leading to Lowland Mint becoming extinct. The Highland patch in the East was still alive, but the patch had been shrinking to 1/5 of its original size.
Conservation Efforts
No action was taken until January of 2025, when efforts to pull trees that were in the way of the mint growing path were removed. In June of 2025 the United Land National Park Service was created to protect United Land's beauty. Later that month Desert-Forest National Park was founded. This protects our Mint for ages to come. (Note: Mint Pickings are allowed but are carefully controlled by the government and NPS)
California Poppy
California Poppy (eschscholzia californica) is a species of flower native to the American state of California, the Mexican state of Baja California and the country of United Land. It is the state flower of California, and for good reasons.
Why California Poppies?
Its vibrant color: California poppies have eye-stunning colors that make almost any boring landscape like a paradise. Its Natural Uses: California Poppies can be used for tea, medical uses, food and many more. Its symbolism to the state of California: Despite its smaller range in other regions, most California poppies grow in the state of California.
United Land's California Poppies
Desert-Forest National Park had a problem with weeds, specially at the Western Entrance. So the government decided to plant California poppies to combat the weeds. The government knew they are not aggressive meaning they would not destroy native plant life. So they planted California Poppy Seeds in the west entrance of Desert-Forest National Park. But these plants did not grow due to the harsh conditions. So the government planted the red chief species of California poppy in Western Victorian Wonders National Park. As of September 9, 2025, these newly introduced species have been doing well in V.W.N.P. with the first flower bloom expected to be in December.
Kids Pop! Fun Fact
Did you know that California Poppies close their petals at night or on cloudy days?
Plumeria
Plumeria is a tropical flowering plant that is admired all around the world. It is sometimes called frangipani. The flowers are known for their strong fragrance and bright colors - white, yellow, pink, red, or even a mix. The blossoms usually have five petals shaped like a star.
Growth & Appearance
The plumeria plant grows as a small tree or large shrub. In warm climates, it can reach up to 20 feet tall. Its branches are thick, with smooth texture that sometimes looks gray or green. The leaves are large, oval-shaped, and dark green, making the flowers stand out even more. When not blooming, it may lose its leaves, but the branches stay alive.
Fragrance & Cultural Significance
One of the most famous features of plumeria is its fragrance. The flowers release a sweet, soft scent that can be noticed from far away. Many perfumes and scented oils use plumeria as an ingredient. At night, the fragrance becomes stronger to attract pollinators such as moths. The flowers symbolize love, beauty, and new beginnings in many traditions. They are used in religious ceremonies, worn as decorations during festivals, and made into garlands and jewelry.
Growing Plumeria
Plumeria prefers full sun and soil that drains water well. Too much water can harm its roots, so it grows best in drier conditions. Instead of growing from seeds, it is often grown from cuttings. A small branch can be planted in soil, and over time it will grow into a new tree. This makes plumeria easy to share and spread across regions.
African Fern Pine
The African fern pine is a unique evergreen tree admired for its graceful appearance. Despite its name, it is not a true pine and is not related to ferns. Its scientific name is Afrocarpus gracilior. This tree is native to eastern Africa and has been introduced to many countries because of its beauty and usefulness.
Appearance & Growth
The African fern pine can grow very tall, sometimes reaching heights of 50 to 70 feet. Its trunk is straight and strong, covered with grayish-brown bark. The branches spread outward, giving the tree a full and balanced look. The leaves are narrow, soft, and pointed, resembling fern leaves. The foliage stays green throughout the year, making it an excellent evergreen choice.
Adaptability & Uses
The tree grows well in a variety of soils as long as there is good drainage. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Once established, it is drought-resistant and requires little water. Its wood is sometimes used in construction and carpentry because it is strong and durable. The tree also provides habitat for birds and other small animals, and its strong root system helps prevent soil erosion.
African Fern Pines in United Land
United Land has a small population of this tree. However, these trees can be seen from the Western Entrance in Desert-Forest National Park. Many tours of the park begin with the small grove of these trees.
Lavender
Lavender in Mainland United Land is found in Victorian Wonders National Park and remains one of the most important plants to the U.L economy. The production of lavender oil is a new development for the country.
Importance & Conservation
The government needs to carefully regulate the amount of flower petals used in the production of oil. Lavender serves a vital role in giving animals shelter and providing bees with pollination opportunities. Without Lavender, bees would not pollinate in the Republic as often, causing a massive toll to the amazing eco-system of Victorian Wonders.
Crepe Myrtle
Crepe Myrtle is one of the only trees in the U.L not found in a national park. Rather Found in other areas. Crepe Myrtles are often regarded as one of the most vibrant trees due to their appealing pink color.
About Crepe Myrtle
The crepe myrtle is a beautiful flowering tree or shrub admired in many parts of the world. Its scientific name is Lagerstroemia. The plant is native to parts of Asia, including India, China, and Korea. It is sometimes called the "lilac of the South" because of its popularity.
Features
The flowers bloom in large clusters from summer through early fall. The petals have a wrinkled, crinkled texture resembling crepe fabric. Colors vary widely, including pink, purple, red, and white. The leaves turn shades of orange, red, and yellow in autumn. As the tree matures, the bark begins to peel away revealing smooth patches of cream, tan, or gray underneath.
Growing Crepe Myrtle
The plant prefers full sunlight and grows best in well-drained soil. It can tolerate some drought once established. Some varieties grow as small shrubs only a few feet tall, while others can reach heights of 20 to 30 feet. Its low maintenance and seasonal beauty make it a beloved ornamental tree.
Milkweed
United Land's Monarch Conservatory (an officially funded government agency) recently planted milkweed in Desert-Forest National Park - a huge achievement in early United Land history. Milkweed is the sole plant that Monarch Butterflies rely on.
The Planting Challenge
The agency needed to plant Milkweed in the mainland. They had to choose between Victorian Wonders National Park (where plantings are harder due to mulch cover) or the 2nd most barren place in the country - they chose option 2. Since planting in hard desert soil is difficult, they had to wet the soil and water blast. They blasted water right against the heated desert soil on an autumn day, almost reaching 35 degrees. Through 3 blasts and one break, our Country planted the milkweed!
Impact & Future
Our country is expected to experience a spike in Monarch Butterfly sightings. We are building a small trail around the milkweed and other brush found in the Northern Desert Forest that will also pass through butterfly plants, lemongrass, and other plants. We hope visitors will find this amazing trail, "A Haven in the Desert." The biggest side effect is the fertile soil that formed around areas of this operation that shall be used for future plantings.
Marigold
Marigold's presence in Mainland United Land has been relatively new, like Milkweed, with the first plants coming into our National Park System in 2025. Since then, their population has rapidly increased to the point where they are considered typical flora in Victorian Wonders.
Why Marigold?
In the 2025 government project of transplanting different types of productive and beautiful plants in our national parks, marigold was chosen due to their pure color, duration, and mosquito repellent properties. In a Victorian Wonders renovation project in November of 2025, Marigold was planted next to fruit and herb-yielding plants due to their ability to repel pests. Overall, Marigold is like the government's new friend as it is used for many factors.
