Arctomecon humilis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Arctomecon humilis |
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Arctomecon
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| Species: |
humilis
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The bearclaw poppy (Arctomecon humilis) is a very rare type of poppy flower. It is also known as the dwarf bearclaw-poppy. This special plant only grows in one small area: Washington County, Utah, in the United States. It is considered an endangered species by the government. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever. It grows in dry, gypsum-rich soils near St. George, Utah. Only a few groups of these plants are known to exist. Some of them are even found inside the city area.
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Discover the Bearclaw Poppy
The bearclaw poppy is a unique plant. It was first described in 1892. Its scientific name, Arctomecon humilis, helps scientists identify it. The common names, bearclaw poppy and dwarf bearclaw-poppy, come from its appearance.
A Special Home in Utah
The bearclaw poppy is an endemic plant. This means it naturally grows only in one specific place. For this poppy, that place is Washington County, Utah. It likes very dry, rocky soil that has a lot of gypsum. Gypsum is a soft mineral. This type of soil is often found in desert areas. The plant is mostly found near the city of St. George.
Only about six groups of these plants are known to exist. Some of these groups are very close to, or even inside, the city. This makes it harder to protect them.
What Does the Bearclaw Poppy Look Like?
The bearclaw poppy is a taprooted perennial herb. This means it has a main root that grows deep into the ground. It lives for many years. The plant produces strong, waxy stems. These stems grow about 15 to 25 centimeters (6 to 10 inches) tall.
The leaves are a waxy blue-green color. They have rounded teeth along their edges. These leaves grow around the base of the plant. Each stem, which is like a flower stalk, usually has one or two flowers. The flowers are an ivory-white color. They have bright orange-yellow stamens in the center. After the flower blooms, it forms an oval-shaped fruit. This fruit can hold up to 30 or more shiny black seeds.
How Does it Reproduce?
The bearclaw poppy relies on a special partner for reproduction. It is pollinated by a rare type of solitary bee. This bee is called Perdita meconis. Solitary bees do not live in hives like honeybees. They live alone. This close relationship means that if the bee disappears, the poppy might also struggle to survive.
Why is it Endangered?
The bearclaw poppy is listed as a federally endangered species. This means it is protected by law. Its biggest threat is habitat loss. As the city of St. George grows, the land where the poppy lives is developed. This includes building homes, roads, and other structures. Because the plant only grows in a very specific type of soil and location, it is hard for it to find new places to live. Protecting its habitat is very important for its survival.
