Banksia dallanneyi var. dallanneyi facts for kids

Banksia dallanneyi var. dallanneyi is a special type, or variety, of a plant called Banksia dallanneyi subsp. dallanneyi. It's a fascinating plant that grows only in one part of the world.

This plant used to have a different name: Dryandra lindleyana var. lindleyana. But in 2007, two scientists, Austin Mast and Kevin Thiele, made a big change. They decided that all plants in the Dryandra group should actually be part of the Banksia group.

Since the name Banksia lindleyana was already being used for another plant, Mast and Thiele had to give this one a new name. That's how it became Banksia dallanneyi var. dallanneyi.

Where Does This Plant Live?

This unique plant is found only in a specific area of Western Australia. This region is known as the South West Botanical Province. When a plant or animal lives only in one particular place, it's called endemic to that area. So, Banksia dallanneyi var. dallanneyi is endemic to Western Australia.

Many plants in the Banksia ser. Dryandra group, which this plant belongs to, are also found only in this part of Australia. This makes the region very special for its plant life.

What Are Banksias?

Banksia plants are well-known for their unique, often cone-shaped flowers. They are native to Australia and are a very important part of the Australian landscape. There are many different types of Banksias, and they come in various sizes, from small shrubs to tall trees.

These plants are important for wildlife. Their flowers produce a lot of nectar, which is a sweet liquid that attracts birds, insects, and small mammals. These animals help to pollinate the Banksia flowers, allowing them to produce seeds.

How Plants Get Their Names

Scientists give plants names using a system called binomial nomenclature. This system uses two parts: the genus name and the species name. For example, in Banksia dallanneyi, Banksia is the genus and dallanneyi is the species.

Sometimes, there are slight differences within a species. These are called subspecies or varieties. That's why this plant has "var. dallanneyi" at the end of its name. It helps scientists and plant lovers know exactly which specific plant they are talking about.

Changing plant names, like what happened with Dryandra becoming part of Banksia, is a normal part of science. As scientists learn more about plants and their relationships, they sometimes update the names to be more accurate.