Valley ringstem facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Valley ringstem |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| leaf | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Synonyms | |
|
Boerhavia annulata |
The Anulocaulis annulatus is a cool flowering plant. People often call it the valley ringstem. It belongs to the four o'clock family.
This plant is special because it only grows in one place. It is found only in the Mojave Desert in California. You can see it near Death Valley. The valley ringstem is a plant that lives for many years. It grows thin, straight stems. These stems can be taller than a person, sometimes over a meter high. They grow from a thick, woody base called a caudex.
Contents
What is Valley Ringstem?
The valley ringstem is a type of plant that blooms with flowers. It is known for its unique look. It is a perennial herb, which means it lives for more than two years.
Where Does It Grow?
This plant is found only in the Mojave Desert. This desert is in the state of California. It especially likes to grow near the famous Death Valley area.
What Does It Look Like?
The valley ringstem has several interesting features. Its stems, leaves, and flowers all have special characteristics.
Stems and Leaves
The stems of the valley ringstem are smooth. They have dark, sticky spots along them. These spots are called internodes. Most of the plant's leaves grow near the bottom. Each leaf has a short stem called a petiole. The leaf itself is thick and bumpy. It can be up to 10 centimeters wide. The leaves are covered in large, stiff hairs. These hairs also have sticky bases.
Flowers and Fruit
The plant grows many branches that hold clusters of flowers. These flowers are very hairy and shaped like tubes. Each flower is a little less than a centimeter long. It has a greenish part inside, like a throat. The outside of the flower is pink with stripes. After the flowers, the plant makes small, hard fruits. Each fruit is about half a centimeter long.
