Deppe's broomspurge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Deppe's broomspurge |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Euphorbia
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| Species: |
deppeana
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| Synonyms | |
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Anisophyllum californicum Klotzsch & Garcke |
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Euphorbia deppeana is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the plant family Euphorbiaceae. People often call it Deppe's broomspurge or Oahu sandmat. In Hawaii, native Hawaiian plants like this one are known as ʻakoko.
This special plant only grows in one place in the world. It is found only on the island of Oʻahu in Hawaii. You can find it in wet, bushy areas on a cliff called Nuʻuanu Pali.
Contents
What is Euphorbia deppeana?
This plant is a type of shrub. It can grow upright or spread out along the ground. Its stems can be longer than a meter (about 3 feet). Inside the stems, there is a milky liquid called sap.
A Rare Plant's Journey
Euphorbia deppeana has always been a rare plant. For many years, people thought it had disappeared completely. By the 1980s, scientists worried it was extinct.
Rediscovery and Protection
Luckily, in 1986, a small group of these plants was found again. There were fewer than 100 plants in this single group. Because it was so rare, the United States government added it to the Endangered Species Act list in 1994. This law helps protect plants and animals that are in danger.
By 2007, there were more than 100 plants. But it is hard to count them. They grow on a very steep rock cliff. This cliff is also a popular place for tourists.
Why is it Still Endangered?
Even with more plants, Euphorbia deppeana is still in danger. It only grows in one small area. Many things threaten its survival.
Invasive Plants
One big problem is invasive plant species. These are plants that are not native to Hawaii. They move into the area and take over. They compete with Euphorbia deppeana for important things. These include water, sunlight, and nutrients from the soil. They also take up physical space.
Some of the main invasive plants in this area are:
- Ironwood (Casuarina equisetifolia)
- Hilo grass (Paspalum conjugatum)
- Christmasberry (Schinus terebinthifolius)
- Common guava (Psidium guajava)
Other Dangers
Other threats to Euphorbia deppeana include fires. These fires can destroy the plants and their habitat. People can also accidentally harm the plants. This is why it is important to protect this special Hawaiian shrub.
