Desert savior facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Desert savior |
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| Scientific classification | |
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Echeveria
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| Species: |
strictiflora
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The Echeveria strictiflora, also known as the desert savior, is a cool plant that grows flowers. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family, which includes many succulent plants. This plant is originally from the southwestern part of Texas and the Chihuahuan Desert in northeast Mexico. You won't find it growing everywhere in these areas; instead, it pops up in different, separate spots.
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What Does the Desert Savior Look Like?
The desert savior is a type of plant called a perennial, which means it lives for more than two years. It's also a succulent, meaning its leaves are thick and fleshy. These leaves store water, helping the plant survive in dry places.
Its Rosettes
The plant grows in a shape called a rosette. Imagine a rose, but made of leaves! These rosettes can grow up to 10 centimeters (about 4 inches) wide. But usually, they are a bit smaller.
Its Leaves
The leaves of the desert savior can be different colors. Some are a dull blue-green, while others are brownish-green or just green. In some parts of Mexico, you might even see plants with pretty red edges on their leaves.
Its Flowers
When the desert savior blooms, it sends up tall flower stalks. These stalks can reach 20 to 25 centimeters (about 8 to 10 inches) high. The flowers themselves come in shades of pink or orange, adding a splash of color to the desert landscape.
How to Grow a Desert Savior Plant
If you want to grow a desert savior, it's good to know how much water it likes. During the cooler winter months, it doesn't need much water at all. But when the weather gets warmer and the plant is actively growing, it needs more water. This helps it stay healthy and happy.
Where Did Its Name Come From?
Plant names often have interesting stories behind them. The desert savior is no different!
The Name Echeveria
The first part of its scientific name, Echeveria, honors a person. It was named after Atanasio Echeverría y Godoy. He was a talented artist who drew plants for a very important book called Flora Mexicana.
The Name Strictiflora
The second part of the name, strictiflora, describes the plant's flowers. It means 'having straight flowers'. This word comes from two Latin words: strict, which means 'straight', and flora, which means 'flower'.
