Early jewelflower facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Early jewelflower |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Streptanthus
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| Species: |
vernalis
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Streptanthus vernalis, also known as the early jewelflower, is a very rare flowering plant. It belongs to the mustard family. This special plant was first noticed in the 1970s. However, scientists didn't officially describe it until 2005.
Contents
What is the Early Jewelflower?
The early jewelflower is a type of plant that grows for only one year. It is called an annual herb. It doesn't have any hairs on its stem or leaves. The plant can grow to be quite small, from about 2 to 20 centimeters tall. That's roughly the size of a pencil to a small ruler. Its stem can be straight or have branches.
Where Does It Live?
This plant is very unique because it is endemic to just one place. This means it is found only in Lake County, California. Specifically, it grows in a small area called Three Peaks. This spot is close to the border of Napa County. The early jewelflower likes to grow in special rocky soil. This soil is called serpentine. It grows in forests and areas with chaparral, which are dry shrublands.
How Was It Discovered?
Even though people saw this plant in the 1970s, it took a while to study it properly. Scientists used genetic analysis to learn more about it. This is like looking at the plant's DNA. They found that Streptanthus vernalis is different from other plants in its group. It is most closely related to another plant called Streptanthus morrisonii. They look quite similar.
What Does It Look Like?
The early jewelflower has interesting features. Its leaves, flowers, and fruits all have unique shapes and colors.
Its Leaves
The leaves at the bottom of the plant are thick and fleshy. They are green on top and purple underneath. These leaves don't last very long. Higher up on the stem, the leaves are long and narrow. They don't have leaf stalks.
Its Flowers and Seeds
The flowers grow along the upper part of the stem. Each flower has an outer part called a sepals. This part is shaped like an urn and is solid green. The petals that come out of the tip are white. They do not have any darker lines or veins. After the flower, the plant produces a flat, straight silique. This is a type of seed pod. It is about 3 to 5 centimeters long. Inside, you can find small orange seeds.
Why Is It Special?
The early jewelflower is considered a rare species. This is because it only grows in one small area. Its specific habitat on serpentine soil makes it unique. Protecting this plant helps keep the natural variety of life in California.
