Firecracker flower facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Firecracker flower |
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Brevoortia ida-maia |
The Dichelostemma ida-maia is a type of flowering plant often called the firecracker flower. It gets its name from its bright, colorful blooms that look a bit like fireworks. This plant naturally grows in northern California and southern Oregon. You can find it in mountain forests, open woodlands, and even along the coast in grassy areas. Many people also grow it in their gardens because its crimson and cream flowers are very beautiful.
About the Firecracker Flower
The firecracker flower is a perennial plant. This means it lives for more than two years and comes back each growing season. It grows a tall, straight stem that doesn't have leaves. At the top of this stem, you'll find a cluster of flowers. This cluster is called an umbel. It can have anywhere from six to 20 flowers.
What the Flowers Look Like
Each firecracker flower is shaped like a tube. It's usually red and about two to three centimeters long. The very tip of each flower petal curls backward. This shows off a shiny white color on the underside of the petal. These curled tips form a ring around the opening of the flower. This ring is called a corona. Inside, you'll see the small anthers and a stalked ovary.
How the Flowers Change
When the flower first opens, it hangs downward. This stage is called anthesis. As the flower gets older and starts to form fruit, it stands up straight. It's common to see an umbel with some flowers hanging down and others standing up at the same time. This shows the different stages of the plant's life cycle.
