Aciphylla colensoi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Aciphylla colensoi |
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| Spaniard in flower | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Aciphylla
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| Species: |
colensoi
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Aciphylla colensoi is a unique plant from New Zealand. It is often called giant speargrass or Spaniard because of its sharp, spiky leaves. The Māori people, who are the native people of New Zealand, call it taramea.
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Giant Speargrass: The Spiky Plant of New Zealand
This plant can grow quite large. A single plant can be up to 90 centimeters (about 3 feet) wide. It is about half as tall as it is wide. It looks like a big ball of very sharp spines. All the spines point outwards from the center of the plant.
What Does It Look Like?
When it flowers, you might see bright yellow flowers. These flowers grow on long, strong stems. They stick out from the spiky leaves. The plant's sharp shape helps protect it in its natural home.
Where Does It Grow?
You can find Aciphylla colensoi on both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. It usually grows in higher places. These areas are typically between 900 and 1500 meters (about 2,950 to 4,900 feet) above sea level.
Who Named This Plant?
A famous scientist named Joseph Hooker first described this plant in 1864. He gave it the name colensoi to honor another important person, William Colenso.
See also
In Spanish: Aciphylla colensoi para niños
