Cliffside cyrtandra facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cliffside cyrtandra |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cyrtandra
|
| Species: |
paliku
|
Cyrtandra paliku is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the African violet family. People also call it the cliffside cyrtandra. This plant grows only in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Kauai. It was first found in 1993. Scientists officially named it a new species in 2001. When it was discovered, there were only about 70 plants. By 2006, only ten plants were left. Because it is so rare, it was listed as an endangered species in 2010. In Hawaii, this plant is also known as ha`iwale.
Where it Lives
This special plant lives only on Mount Namahana. This mountain is part of the Makaleha Mountains on the island of Kauai. Cyrtandra paliku needs a very specific home. It likes windy, misty cliffs that face north. These cliffs are made of basalt rock. They must also be wet from water seeping out.
Why it's Hard to Find
It might have been hard to find this plant for a long time. This is because scientists have to climb very steep cliffs to see it. This makes studying it quite a challenge!
What it Looks Like
Cyrtandra paliku has a unique look. You can tell it apart from other similar plants. It has a shaggy coat of reddish-brown hairs. These hairs cover its stems and leaves.
Plant Neighbors
This plant grows with other plants around it. It lives near Selaginella arbuscula. It also grows under taller plants. These include Metrosideros polymorpha and Dicranopteris linearis. These plants create a shady understory for the Cyrtandra paliku.
