Forest cyrtandra facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Forest cyrtandra |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Cyrtandra
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| Species: |
giffardii
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The Cyrtandra giffardii is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the African violet family. People also call it the forest cyrtandra or Giffard's cyrtandra. In Hawaii, it's known as ha`iwale.
This special plant only grows on the island of Hawaii. You can find it on the sides of the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. In 1998, experts thought there were only about 1,000 of these plants left. It's a small tree that can grow from 2 to 6 meters tall. It has pretty white flowers.
What Makes Cyrtandra giffardii Special?
The Cyrtandra giffardii is a unique plant. It is endemic to Hawaii, which means it naturally lives only there. You won't find it growing wild anywhere else in the world!
This plant was officially listed as an endangered species in 1994. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever. Protecting these plants is very important.
Where Does Cyrtandra giffardii Live?
This plant likes to live in the wet forests. These forests are found on the slopes of Hawaii's two big volcanoes, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. The damp, rich soil and warm climate are perfect for it.
Why Is Cyrtandra giffardii Endangered?
The Cyrtandra giffardii faces many challenges. Its home, or habitat, is slowly being damaged. This damage is called habitat degradation.
- Wild Animals: Feral pigs and cattle roam in these forests. They can eat the plants or stomp on them. This harms the delicate forest environment.
- New Plants: Another big problem is non-native plants. These are plants that were brought to Hawaii by people. They grow very fast and take over the space and resources that native plants, like Cyrtandra giffardii, need to survive.
Scientists and conservationists are working hard to protect the remaining Cyrtandra giffardii plants. They are also trying to restore their natural habitat.
