Chiricahua fleabane facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chiricahua fleabane |
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|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Erigeron
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| Species: |
kuschei
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Erigeron kuschei, also known as the Chiricahua fleabane, is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the aster family, which includes daisies and sunflowers. This special plant is found only in a small area of Arizona in the southwestern United States. It grows in the Chiricahua Mountains, where it has only been seen in two places.
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Meet the Chiricahua Fleabane
The Chiricahua fleabane is a perennial herb. This means it lives for more than two years. It grows from underground stems called rhizomes. These rhizomes help the plant spread and grow new shoots.
What Does It Look Like?
The plant has hairy stems that are only a few centimeters tall. Its leaves are shaped like a spatula or a spear. They can grow up to 6 centimeters (about 2.4 inches) long. These leaves are usually found near the bottom of the plant.
The flowers of the Chiricahua fleabane grow in special clusters called flower heads. Each flower head has many small, hairy, and sticky leaves called phyllaries around it. Inside, you'll find many white ray florets. These look like the petals of a daisy and can be up to 1.1 centimeters (about 0.4 inches) long. In the center, there are many tiny yellow disc florets.
Where Does It Live?
This rare plant likes to grow in shady places. You can often find it on the north side of cliffs and rocky outcrops. It often grows in mossy spots among conifer trees. These are trees like pines and firs.
Who Was J. August Kusche?
The scientific name of this plant, Erigeron kuschei, honors a botanist named J. August Kusche. Botanists are scientists who study plants. The plant was named after him to recognize his contributions to plant science.
