Acaena rorida facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Acaena rorida |
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| Conservation status | |
 Nationally Critical (NZ TCS) |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Acaena
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| Species: |
rorida
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Acaena rorida is a special kind of plant that grows low to the ground, like a mat. It is a perennial plant, which means it lives for more than two years. This plant is only found in one specific area of New Zealand.
Contents
Discovering Acaena rorida
Where Does This Plant Live?
This unique plant lives in grassy, high-up areas called the Mangaohane Plateau. This plateau is in the northwestern part of the Ruahine Range on the North Island of New Zealand. It likes places with moist, steady soil. You can find it in dips in grassy fields or at the bottom of small valleys.
What Makes It Special?
You can tell Acaena rorida apart from its close relatives by its leaves. Its leaves are often purple or a dull green, not bright green. Also, its fruits are sessile, meaning they grow directly on the stem without a stalk. These fruits are often hidden among the leaves.
When Does It Flower and Fruit?
This plant usually produces flowers in December and January. Its fruits then grow in February.
Conservation Status
Why Is It Important to Protect This Plant?
Acaena rorida has a "Nationally Critical" conservation status. This means it is very close to disappearing from New Zealand. The New Zealand Threat Classification System gives it this special status. Protecting its habitat helps keep this rare plant safe.
