Banyan trees are fig trees that are often known by another name: strangler figs. There's a good reason for that; the seeds land on other trees and sprout there, sending down roots that slowly strangle the host tree. Readers of this absorbing volume will discover fascinating facts about this odd plant, including how it grows and its ecological importance. Age-appropriate text addresses important elementary science concepts, while colorful images enliven the narrative. Fact boxes summarize interesting information and a graphic organizer enriches essential concepts.