Ajo Mountain Shrub oak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ajo Mountain Shrub oak |
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| Genus: |
Quercus
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| Species: |
ajoensis
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| Natural range of Quercus ajoensis | |
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The Quercus ajoensis is a special kind of plant. It is a shrub that grows in North America. People often call it the Ajo Mountain shrub oak.
You can find this plant in the mountains of Arizona. It grows in dry areas like the Colorado Desert and the Sonoran Desert. This oak is quite rare.
Scientists sometimes find it hard to tell Q. ajoensis apart from another oak, Q. turbinella. This is because they are very similar. They can even mix together, making new plants that share traits from both. Some experts think Q. ajoensis might just be a type of Q. turbinella that grows at different heights.
What Does the Ajo Mountain Shrub Oak Look Like?
The Ajo Mountain shrub oak is usually a small bush. But sometimes, it can grow into a small tree. These trees can reach up to 3 meters (about 10 feet) tall.
Its leaves are shaped like narrow eggs. They can grow up to 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) long. The edges of the leaves have sharp, pointed teeth.
Where Does the Name "Ajo" Come From?
This plant gets its name from the Little Ajo Mountains. These mountains are in western Pima County, Arizona. They are located southwest of a town called Ajo.
The word "ajo" means "garlic" in Spanish. However, the plant itself does not smell like garlic. The Ajo Mountain shrub oak is mostly found in this specific mountain range. Most plants found outside this area are a mix with Q. turbinella.
See also
In Spanish: Quercus ajoensis para niños
