(PHOENIX, Ariz., Dec. 9, 2004) - When Phoenix College launched its marketing slogan; "Go Far Close to Home," the words resonated in a number of ways with so many people on campus. Among those instantly grasping to the message was Biology instructor, Mickie Bond.

Bond saw a unique educational opportunity that clearly echoed this message. As a true botanist, Bond related the message to the universal landscape of the college campus. With the origin of the trees and plants stemming from Australia to Asia, students can literally travel the world as they walk across the campus. In other words, they can "Go Far, Close to Home."

Whether instructors use the landscape for additional classroom instruction or neighbors stroll the grounds on an educational walking tour, the array of vegetation available for view is quite amazing.

Bond has prepared a handout for her students, which lists the unusual trees and plants along with their place of origin. She provides both the common name and scientific name and their location on campus.

"There are so many stories about the history of each tree, plant or bush," said Bond. "For instance, the Vitex agnus-castus…known to us as Monk's Pepper is rumored to have been used to promote celibacy among the monks."

In addition to Monk's Pepper, on the West side of campus is the Ephedra. This grass-like plant, which was used in diet drugs reportedly has links to breathing difficulty and causes irregular heartbeats.

If students stroll over to the North side of the C Building and look closely, they will discover an assortment of colorful peppers from Mexico.

"These are great," added Bond. "It is not unusual to see folks from our landscaping crew pick one of the ripe ones and have it for lunch. They really are tasty!"

Bond encourages students, faculty and staff to take a moment and enjoy their walk on campus. Whether running off to a meeting or rushing to your next class, take a moment and "Go Far, Close to Home" at Phoenix College.

Additional vegetation found on the Phoenix College campus includes:

Hibiscus
Place of Origin - Asia
Used for - tea

Rubber Plant
Place of Origin - India
Used for - rubber tires

Umbrella Plant
Place of Origin - Madagascar
Used for - paper

Orange Tree
Place of Origin - China
Used for - teas and drinks

Cycad
Place of Origin - Japan
Used for - oil and gas

Ginkgo
Place of Origin - China
Used for - memory enhancement

Pomegranate
Place of Origin - Asia
Used for - fertility enhancement

Jojoba
Place of Origin - North America
Used for - exotic oil

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