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Kermadec ice plant facts for kids

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Kermadec ice plant
Disphyma australe kz5.jpg
Disphyma australe near Hāwera
Scientific classification
Genus:
Disphyma
Species:
australe

Disphyma australe is a type of flowering plant found only in New Zealand. It belongs to the Aizoaceae family, which includes many plants that store water. This plant is often called the Kermadec ice plant.

It is a plant that grows flat on the ground. It has thick, juicy leaves that store water, like a succulent plant. It can live for about a year, or sometimes a few years. Its stems can grow up to 2 meters (about 6.5 feet) long.

The leaves of Disphyma australe are special. They are shaped like a triangle when you look at them from the side, with a rounded bottom. The plant produces pretty, daisy-like flowers. These flowers can be white or a deep pink color. They have parts that look like petals, which can be up to 30 millimeters (about 1.2 inches) long.

Disphyma australe kz13
How Disphyma australe grows at Punakaiki

What are the types of Disphyma australe?

Scientists in New Zealand recognize two main types, or subspecies, of Disphyma australe. A subspecies is a group of plants within a species that has small differences and usually lives in a specific area.

Disphyma australe subsp. australe

This subspecies is the most common one. It grows in many places across New Zealand, including:

You can often find this type growing on cliff faces, rocky areas, and beaches. Sometimes, it can also be found in marshy areas or near river mouths.

Disphyma australe subsp. stricticaule

This subspecies is special because it is found only on the Kermadec Islands. It also grows on cliff faces and beaches, similar to the other subspecies. You might also find it near places where birds nest.

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