Correll's false dragonhead facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Correll's false dragonhead |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Physostegia
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| Species: |
correllii
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Physostegia correllii, also known as Correll's false dragonhead, is a beautiful flowering plant. It belongs to the mint family. This plant is native to parts of North America.
You can find Correll's false dragonhead in northern Mexico. It also grows in the United States, specifically in Texas and Louisiana. Sadly, this plant is quite rare today. Many places where it used to grow no longer have it. Now, it is only known from a few spots. These include one location in Travis County, Texas, and two or three places in Louisiana. We don't know much about its current presence in Mexico.
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What is Correll's False Dragonhead?
Correll's false dragonhead is a type of perennial herb. This means it lives for many years. It grows back each spring without needing to be replanted. It can grow quite tall, sometimes over 2 meters (about 6.5 feet) high!
How it Grows
This plant grows from special underground stems called rhizomes. These rhizomes help the plant spread. They also store food for the plant. This allows it to survive through winter.
Its Flowers
Correll's false dragonhead produces spikes of pretty flowers. These flowers bloom from June through September. They are usually purple with darker streaks. These colorful flowers attract important visitors.
Pollination by Bumblebees
The flowers of Correll's false dragonhead are pollinated by bumblebees. Bumblebees visit the flowers to collect nectar and pollen. As they move from flower to flower, they help the plant make seeds. This process is vital for the plant to reproduce.
Where Does It Live?
This plant is a wetland species. This means it loves to grow in wet places. You can often find it in areas with lots of moisture. These places might include swamps or marshes.
Its Habitat Today
Today, Correll's false dragonhead is found in wet, "disturbed" areas. These are places where the ground has been changed by humans. Examples include drainage ditches or other altered wet spots. It seems to do well in these specific conditions.
Why is it Important?
Correll's false dragonhead is a rare plant. Protecting its few remaining locations is very important. It is part of the natural plant life of its native regions. Every plant plays a role in its ecosystem.
