Calothamnus microcarpus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Calothamnus microcarpus |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Calothamnus
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| Species: |
microcarpus
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| Synonyms | |
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Melaleuca microcarpa (F.Muell.) Craven & R.D.Edwards |
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Calothamnus microcarpus is a type of plant that belongs to the myrtle family, called Myrtaceae. You can only find it in the southwest part of Western Australia. It's a shrub that can grow straight up or spread out. It has flat leaves and bright red flowers that grow in groups during springtime.
What it Looks Like
Calothamnus microcarpus is a shrub that stands upright. It usually grows to be about 1.0–1.5 metres (3–5 ft) tall. Its leaves are flat. They also have two small grooves on both the top and bottom sides.
The flowers are a bright red color. They grow in small groups on the plant. Inside the flowers, the stamens (which hold pollen) are grouped into four parts that look a bit like claws. The plant blooms in spring. After the flowers, small, woody fruits grow. These fruits are like tiny capsules, about 5 millimetres (0.2 in) across.
About its Name
The plant Calothamnus microcarpus was first officially described in 1862. This was done by Ferdinand von Mueller, who was a government botanist in Victoria. He wrote about it in a book called Fragmenta Phytographiae Australiae.
The second part of its name, microcarpus, comes from ancient Greek words. Mikros means "small," and karpos means "fruit." So, microcarpus means "small fruit."
Where it Grows
Calothamnus microcarpus is found in two special areas of Western Australia. These areas are called the Esperance Plains and the Jarrah Forest. It likes to grow in soils that are made of clay or sand.
Protecting the Plant
The Western Australian government's Department of Parks and Wildlife keeps track of plants like Calothamnus microcarpus. They have classified it as "Priority Four." This means the plant is rare or close to being threatened. It needs to be watched to make sure its numbers stay healthy.
