California hemp facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hoita macrostachya |
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H. macrostachya
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| Hoita macrostachya (DC.) Rydb.
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Hoita longiloba |
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Hoita macrostachya is a type of plant called a legume. Its common name is large leather-root. This plant grows naturally in California and Baja California. You can find it in wet places, like near streams or in damp fields.
About the Large Leather-Root Plant
The large leather-root is a perennial herb. This means it lives for more than two years. It has a tall, branching stem that can grow up to two meters high. That's about six and a half feet! The plant also feels a bit hairy and has tiny glands on it.
What the Plant Looks Like
The leaves of the large leather-root are spread out along the stem. Each leaf has three smaller parts called leaflets. These leaflets can be up to 10 centimeters (about 4 inches) long. They are attached to a long stalk called a petiole. Just like the stem, the leaflets also have tiny glands.
Flowers and Fruits
This plant produces many flower clusters. These clusters are shaped like clubs and are called racemes. They grow on strong stalks from the main stem. Each cluster holds many purplish, pea-like flowers. After the flowers bloom, they turn into a fruit. This fruit is a hairy, veiny brown pod. It's less than a centimeter long and holds a kidney-shaped seed inside.
