Dodecahema facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dodecahema |
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| Conservation status | |
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| Genus: |
Dodecahema
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| Species: |
leptoceras
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Dodecahema is a special group of plants. It has only one type of plant in it, called Dodecahema leptoceras. This plant is also known as the slender-horned spineflower. It only grows in California, USA.
This plant is very rare. It is listed as an endangered species by both the state and federal governments. This means it needs special protection to survive.
What it Looks Like
The slender-horned spineflower is a small plant. It grows for only one year. It forms a patch of leaves that spread out on the ground. This patch is usually a few centimeters wide. If there is more water, it can grow a bit larger.
From the center of the leaves, a straight stem grows upwards. This stem holds groups of tiny flowers. Each group of flowers is white or pink. They are held inside a small cup. This cup is made of fused bracts, which are like small leaves. The cup is only a few millimeters wide. After the flowers, the plant produces a dark, small fruit. This fruit is called an achene and is about 2 millimeters long.
Where it Grows
This unique plant grows in specific places in southern California. It likes floodplains and washes. These are areas where rivers or streams sometimes flood. The soil in these places is often rich in silt. You can find it in the foothills of the Transverse Ranges and the Peninsular Ranges.
Why it's Endangered
The slender-horned spineflower is very rare. Scientists have found it in fewer than 40 places. Many of these places have changed over time. Some have been built on, or the land has been altered. Today, experts believe there are only about 19 places where this plant still grows.
It has only been found in a few main areas. These include Tujunga Wash and the floodlands near the Santa Ana and San Jacinto Rivers.
The biggest dangers to this plant include:
- Water changes: When water is moved away from its natural path, the plant doesn't get enough water.
- Off-road vehicles: Vehicles driving off paved roads can damage the plants and their habitat.
- Invasive plants: Other plants that are not native to the area can grow quickly. They take over the space and resources that the spineflower needs.
- Development: Many of the places where this plant grows are on private land. New buildings or other developments can destroy its habitat.
See also
In Spanish: Dodecahema para niños
