Desert pepperweed facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Desert pepperweed |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Lepidium
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| Species: |
fremontii
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Lepidium fremontii, also known as the desert pepperweed, is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the mustard family. You can find this plant in the southwestern United States. It likes to grow in sandy desert areas. It also grows on rocky hills and mountains nearby. This plant was named after John C. Frémont.
Contents
What Does It Look Like?
The desert pepperweed is a strong plant. It grows back year after year, so it's called a perennial herb. It has many gray stems that branch out and can grow up to about one meter (about 3 feet) tall.
Stems and Leaves
Its many stems spread out. They have long, thin leaves. These leaves can be up to 10 centimeters (about 4 inches) long. Some leaves might have small, finger-like parts.
Flowers and Fruit
This plant grows many small flowers. They appear in thick clusters called racemes. Each flower has white petals. These petals are shaped like tiny spoons. They are only a few millimeters long. After the flowers, the plant makes fruit. The fruit is a flat, oval, or round pod. It is less than one centimeter long.
Where Does It Grow?
The desert pepperweed is native to the southwestern United States. This means it naturally grows there. It thrives in desert areas. You can find it in sandy flats. It also grows on the rocky slopes of hills and mountains.
Desert Habitats
This plant is well-suited for dry climates. It can be found in parts of Arizona, California, and Nevada. It also grows in Utah. It is common in the Mojave Desert and the Sonoran Desert. These areas have hot, dry weather.
Who Was John C. Frémont?
The plant Lepidium fremontii is named after John C. Frémont. He was an American explorer and soldier. He lived from 1813 to 1890.
His Expeditions
Frémont led several important expeditions. These trips explored the American West. He mapped many areas. His work helped people learn more about the western United States. He was sometimes called "The Pathfinder."
Later Life
Later in his life, Frémont became involved in politics. He was even a candidate for President of the United States in 1856. He also served as a general during the American Civil War.
