Australian carrot facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Australian carrot |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Daucus
|
| Species: |
glochidiatus
|
The Daucus glochidiatus, often called the Australian carrot or native carrot, is a type of wild plant. It's a herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family, which also includes the carrots we eat! This interesting plant grows naturally in Australia and New Zealand.
What Does the Australian Carrot Look Like?
The Australian carrot is a plant that grows upright. It's an annual herb, meaning it completes its whole life cycle, from seed to flower to new seeds, within one year. These plants can grow from about 2 centimetres (less than an inch) up to 60 centimetres (about two feet) tall. However, they are usually shorter, often staying under 20 centimetres (about 8 inches). You might see their flowers in many different colours!
How Scientists Name and Classify Plants
Scientists give plants special names to help everyone know exactly which plant they are talking about. This system is called Taxonomy. The Australian carrot was first described by a scientist named Jacques Labillardière in 1805. He gave it the name Scandex glochidiata. Later, in 1809, it was moved to a different group called Caucalia. Finally, in 1844, it was placed in the Daucus group, which is where our common garden carrots also belong!
Where Does the Australian Carrot Grow?
You can find the Australian carrot all over Australasia, which includes Australia and New Zealand. In Australia, it grows in every single state. In New Zealand, it's found on both the North Island and the South Island. It even grows on the Chatham Islands, which are far out in the Pacific Ocean!
This plant is quite common in both the warm, dry areas and the cooler, milder parts of Australia. However, it doesn't usually grow in very hot, tropical areas. The Australian carrot often likes to grow in places where there is limestone in the soil, but it can also grow well in many other types of soil.
