Ballhead ipomopsis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ballhead ipomopsis |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Ipomopsis
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| Species: |
congesta
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Ipomopsis congesta is a cool flowering plant from the phlox family. People often call it the ballhead ipomopsis because its flowers grow in a tight, round bunch, like a little ball! This plant is found all over western North America. It can grow in many different places, from high up on mountain peaks to lower, scrubby areas.
Contents
Discovering the Ballhead Ipomopsis
What Does It Look Like?
The ballhead ipomopsis is a perennial herb, which means it lives for more than two years. It can look a bit different depending on where it grows and what type it is. Some plants are short and bushy, less than 10 centimeters (about 4 inches) tall. Others can stand taller, up to 30 centimeters (about 12 inches) high. Its stems are often covered in soft hairs.
The leaves of this plant are usually thick and shaped a bit like a fork. They have several claw-like parts and are about 1 to 4 centimeters (0.4 to 1.6 inches) long.
The Flowers of Ballhead Ipomopsis
The flowers of the ballhead ipomopsis are very special. They grow in a dense, rounded cluster right at the top of the stem. Each individual flower is shaped like a bell or a funnel. They are usually white with a light yellow color inside. You'll also see yellow or white stamens (the parts that hold pollen) sticking out from the flower.
Different Types of Ballhead Ipomopsis
There are several different types, or subspecies, of Ipomopsis congesta. Many of these were once thought to be completely separate plants. They used to be called different species of a plant group named Gilia. Scientists have since studied them more closely and realized they are all part of the Ipomopsis congesta family.
